Copan Archaeological Tour
Walk among ancient temples and discover the secrets of Maya kings
Duration
2-3 hours, Easy walking tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels
Price Range
Archaeological Park Entrance: Hondurans L100 ($4 USD), Central Americans $10 USD, Other foreigners $20 USD. Students/seniors/disabled get discounts. Tunnels (optional): Additional L50 for Hondurans, $15 USD for foreigners. Museums: Sculpture Museum $5-10 USD, Regional Museum $5 USD. Guide services: $30-40 USD per group. Children under 6 enter free.
Includes
Entrance to the main archaeological site and the Copan Sculpture Museum, with an expert-certified guide available for an additional fee.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the most artistic Maya city with expert guides who bring ancient history to life through fascinating stories and archaeological insights.
About This Experience
Step into the magnificent world of the ancient Maya at Copán Archaeological Park, just 3 minutes from your hotel room.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the most artistically advanced Maya city, where intricate sculptures, hieroglyphics, and carved stelae tell the 400-year story of a powerful dynasty.
Walk through the Great Plaza adorned with towering stelae, marvel at the famous Hieroglyphic Stairway containing over 2,000 individual glyphs, and explore the Acropolis where Maya rulers once lived and governed. Your certified guide will decode the stories carved in stone, explaining the significance of astronomical observations, royal ceremonies, and daily life in this ancient metropolis.
The Ball Court, where ritual games determined cosmic balance, and the intricate facades of Temple 22 showcase the artistic mastery that made Copán unique among Maya cities.
Additional Contact Info
We recommend hiring a local guide for current information and the best experience. To arrange ahead, contact the Asociación de Guías del Parque Arqueológico de Copán (official tour guide association) to: +504 9335-6759.
Important Notice
Interests
- Cultural Education
- Guided Tours
- History & Heritage
- Maya Civilization
- Photography
- UNESCO World Heritage
What to Bring
Recommendations
Timing Strategies: Leisurely Approach – Visit archaeological park in the morning (8-10am), have lunch at the park cafeteria or downtown for more dining options, explore the town’s Regional Archaeology Museum, then return in the afternoon for the Sculpture Museum when it’s cooler. Intensive Morning – Complete all park sites and museums between 8am-12pm to free your afternoon for other Copán activities like Macaw Mountain or spa visits. Best Weather: Early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon (3-5pm) offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography. Pro Tip: The Sculpture Museum’s unique underground architecture with high ceilings keeps it naturally cool even on the hottest sunny days, making it perfect for afternoon visits, while the outdoor ruins are best explored in cooler morning hours.
