About Honduras...

Sunny tropical beaches, cool comfortable mountain vistas, off the beaten track tropical jungles...
This country, like many of its surrounding Central American neighbors, has the diversity and culture to make this place one stop not to be missed. The land is roughly divided into 3 geographical zones. Out along the coasts, especially the northern, you will encounter beautiful white sandy beaches together with the classic swaying palms. From the north coast, the mountains rise quickly to form the backbone of the very mountainous country. The high mountains and surrounding hillsides are rich with varied life and the people that live there. Flying over the low flat valley that forms the backdrop for San Pedro Sula, one can see vast banana plantations that stretch for miles. The last geo zone is the magnificent Bay Islands. These coral islands, just a few km off the mainland, are the lower extension of the vast barrier reef that forms the coastal heart of Belize. This is the worlds second largest reef system, and is worthy of the title. The main islands consist of Roatan, Guanaja, Utila, and the Cayos Cochinos (Pig Islands) Surrounding these islands are some smaller islets, and sandy bars.
 

What to do and see:

If your an archeology buff, then Copan is a site not to be missed. The ruins here are some of the best in Central America. The best part is that most of the sculptures have intense intricate carvings like nothing found elsewhere in the region. Hiking can be fun and there are some interesting places to check out. Try the approx. 50 min walk to Agua Caliente (hot springs). Or you can visit El Ruby waterfall, just head to Santa Rita (~9 km) then take the 40 min + hike up the mountain to the falls. Further upstream is a canyon with more falls, with a return through a small village with views of the valley below. Another place is Pena Quemada (a private reserve). Horseback riding, Bird watching, and River Rafting are some other possibilities. Check around town for availability and prices, operators come and go, and the prices fluctuate depending on demand.

Back on the north coast, some good places to check out are Tela, La Ceiba, and Trujillo. All three have beaches, but those at La Ceiba are not as good as the other two. All three towns have nearby excursions that can be arranged in town, eg: nature reserves, mountain parks, and Garifuna villages. If you're in Trujillo, check out the 17th century fort.

The Bay islands just 30-40 km off the north coast are one of the prizes of the Caribbean. Roatan is the largest in the string of islands. Other islands include: Guanaja, Utila, Cayes Cochinos, and a few smaller reefs around the main islands. These beautiful islands are known for their laid back, quiet, comfortable atmosphere. Coxen Hole on Roatan is where the planes will drop you off. The fairly new international airport receives aircraft from many of the larger cities in the USA. From Coxen Hole it is about a 15-20 min drive to West End. This lazy little village on the western end of Roatan is a favorite with travelers. Further west along the coast you come to the beautiful West Beach. Already this quiet deserted beach has begun to show the signs of tourism, with guest houses, hotels, restaurants, etc. The beach can be reached by a hot 1 hr walk from West End, or by a 10 min taxi boat ride. The reefs just a few feet off the beach (at the far western end) are incredible. If you don't SCUBA dive, and love to snorkel, then this place is for you. Most people that visit the islands do so for the calm beaches, and great diving. West End offers many dive shops all equipped with decent gear. PADI certification courses can be had here for very little. The reef abounds with exotic dive sites. When on the island try renting a Suzuki Samurai jeep for the day. 24 hr. is about all you need to visit most of the island. Out on the eastern end of the island is a small hotel called Paya Bay Resort. This small place offers great views, privacy, comfortable rooms, and a restaurant.