1. Scuba diving on Utila Island
Utila is one of the smallest, most chilled islands in the Gulf of Honduras and is a popular backpacker destination. Surrounded by natural coral reefs, Utila is one of the cheapest places to learn to dive. If you have a PADI certification, head to Pumpkin Hill Beach or Chepes Beach. You can also visit the Iguana Research and Breeding Station, which is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Utila iguana.
2. Explore the Mayan ruins of Copán
Known as the jewel of Honduras, Copán is an ancient Mayan city set amidst lush jungle. It was ruled by a golden dynasty of 16 kings between 426 and 820 AD and was rediscovered in 1570 by explorer Diego García de Palacio.
Copán is considered one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilization. 19th-century excavations uncovered a ruined citadel, imposing public plazas, and a monumental stone staircase. Leading up to a pyramid-shaped temple, the grand staircase impresses visitors with its size and artistry. Wandering the Mayan ruins of Copán is like stepping back in time.
3. Visit the colonial town of Comayagua
With its cobblestone streets, small squares, whitewashed houses and grand churches, the colonial town of Comayagua is a beautiful place with ideal weather for a visit any time of year.
During Easter, the place transforms. The devout townspeople take to the streets at the same time as the main streets of the town are covered with traditional carpets called alfombras. These carpets are intricately designed and colorful, making the scene bustling but no less romantic.
4. Explore the National Identity Museum
For a glimpse into Trinidadian history and identity, visit the National Identity Museum (Museo para la Identidad Nacional) in Tegucigalpa. This beautifully restored 19th-century building offers a glimpse into the story of a nation that endured a difficult colonial period.
One of the museum’s largest exhibitions is held in the “Virtual Copán” room, which illustrates the history of gods and kings of the Caribbean. The museum’s displays are in Spanish, but don’t worry, there are free English tours given by excellent guides four times a day.
5. Hike in Celaque National Park
Celaque National Park has tree-lined trails that are perfect for hikers. After a hike, soak your tired feet in the hot springs at the edge of the park.
Visitors to Celaque National Park can also see rare native monkeys and butterflies. Celaque’s wilderness is known to be home to pumas and ocelots, but aside from the occasional footprint in the mud, they are hard to spot.
6. Admire history at Trujillo fortress
Wandering through the ruins of Fortaleza Santa Bárbara de Trujillo, a 17th-century Spanish fortress on the northern coast of Honduras, is like stepping back in time. Even in ruins, the fortress remains imposing and impressive. Standing on the walls, next to one of the old cannons, visitors can imagine what it was like to be a Spanish soldier fighting in the past.
Visitors will also find a plaque marking the spot where William Walker was executed. He led several military uprisings against the Spanish crown, establishing English-speaking colonies.
7. Experience Garifuna culture and cuisine
The Garifuna people, who originated as slaves in West Africa, have a strong connection to music and dance. Garifuna music is characterized by the use of many percussion instruments and distinctive drums. Indeed, it is not uncommon to see groups of boys playing Garifuna drums, which are made from hardwoods such as mahogany, native to Central America. Food is another important part of Garifuna culture. If you are lucky, you will be invited to a Garifuna feast, and be sure to try machuca, a dish of mashed green plantains in a coconut milk soup, and fried fish.
Today, there are approximately 100,000 Garifuna people in Honduras, living in most towns and villages on the north coast, from Masca, Cortes to Plaplaya, Gracias a Dios. The best places for tourists to experience the vibrant Garifuna culture are in the Garifuna communities of Tela, La Ceiba, Trujillo and Bataya.
