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Copan combines the charm of a colonial town with cobblestone streets and friendly inhabitants, and the magnificence of the most important Archaeological Park of the country: The Ancient Mayan City of Copan and the Mayan Sculpture Museum. It is located in the jungles of northwestern Honduras, a three-hour drive from San Pedro Sula. In Copan, the Mayas reached their most refined sculpture, leaving the longest hieroglyphic text, and the most fascinating collection of stelares.
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| ESSENCE OF THE AREA |
| This is one of the most breathtaking archaeological sites in Central America. The Copan town ruins are charming, with cobblestone streets, amidst the green hills of the Rio Copan Valley. The ruins are east of town. The easiest way to get here is by land from San Pedro de Sula. Copan is part of the Mayan Route, and a gateway for the rest of the Mayan archaeological sites. For archaeological lovers we have a great tour called the Mayan Route and Islands, which combines Copan, Honduras, with Tikal, Guatemala and Caracol in Belize.
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| RECOMMENDED STAY |
| Three days and two nights. The ruins are open from 8am to 4pm.
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| RECOMMENDED SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES |
| Archaeology; hiking; horseback riding.
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| MUST SEE |
| Down a tree-lined path you'll find a series of beautifully reconstructed temples. The intricate carvings in the stone structures, especially along the Hieroglyphic Stairway, are remarkably well preserved. The Great Plaza ,with many stelaes; the Ball Court; the Western Court; the Acropolis; Rosalila Temple; El Bosque; Las Sepulturas; and east of the main entrance to Copan is the marvelous Museo de Escultura Maya. Hacienda San Lucas; spend the afternoon hiking or horseback riding the well-maintained and lovely trails.
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| RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS |
Hotel Marina Copan: Facing Parque Central, this colonial building has been converted into a pretty hotel. Brilliant bougainvillea lines the path to the rooms which have dark wood furniture and paneling. Cooled by a ceiling fan, few have terraces and peaceful gardens out back. There is a small pool in the main patio, sauna, and a good restaurant.
Hotel Posada Real de Copan: Is located on a hillside just outside of town. Closest to the ruins, the Spanish-style hotel has 80 comfortable rooms with all the amenities and view of the lush gardens. With a nice swimming pool and hot tub to relax at the end of the day. Bars and restaurant.
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