Around Copán

The Hacienda San Lucas is a lovely rural hotel about 4km south of town, within whose grounds are a couple of interesting attractions. A wonderful sixteen-stage zipline network has been set up here, with wires commencing in the hills and plunging across the Copán valley, offering a stunning view of the town, then down across the Río Copán and ending up beside the ruins of the Acropolis.

Also in the grounds of the hotel, the ruins of Los Sapos date from the same era as Copán. This is a small site whose name derives from a rock carved in the shape of a toad – it’s thought to have been a place where Maya women came to bear children, though unfortunately time and weather have eroded much of the carving. You can walk here in around an hour or so from Copán – cross the river after the Hedman Alas bus terminal, bear left and follow the signs.

A kilometre or so further north from the spa, 24km from Copán, is the agroturismo centre at Finca El Cisne, a working finca involved in the production of cardamom, shade-grown coffee, cattle and fruit. Owner Carlos Castejón’s family has worked the land here since 1885, and he’s a superb host, explaining all about the farm’s eco-sensitive agricultural practices. Day-trips include transport from Copán, about three hours of highly scenic horseriding (on well-trained mounts suitable for inexperienced riders), swimming in the Río Blanco and a visit (entrance included) to the Luna Jaguar hot springs. The overnight option gives you time to really enjoy the rural setting and hospitality (Carlos’s mother’s cooking is legendary). Base Camp tours in Copán, organize the trips here.