Top Destinations for Birdwatching and nature tours. Honduras

  This is where the Honduran shoreline meets the sea in the heart of the Caribbean coast. Soft sand beaches and stunning national parks strung like jewels along the shoreline make for the ultimate relaxing tropical getaway. The temptation to stay on the beach is strong, but venture further afield and a world of adventure awaits. Listen for howler monkeys in the trees and spot manatees on the aquatic trails of the Cuero y Salado Wildlife Refuge. Challenge the rapids on a rafting trip down the mighty Cangrejal River, or fly above it on a zip-line. Snorkel in a coral reef or in a secluded jungle river; or try your luck at hand-line fishing with a local expert. Some target birds: Agami Heron, Lovely Cotinga, Northern Potoo, Tody Motmot, Scaly-breasted Hummingbird, Chestnut-colored Woodpecker, and many more.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. Abandoned in the early 10th century, rediscovered by Spanish explorer Diego Garcia de Palacio in 1570 and unexcavated until the 19th century, the vast public squares, citadel, temples and ballcourts of the Copan Archeological Site are considered one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilization. 

There are many other remaining and important Mayan sites, which you can explore in the surrounding valley. Additionally, is home of the Mayan Sculpture Museum, filled with jade treasures and even a real tomb. Copan Ruins and surrounding registered more than 300 species including Honduras national bird   

Scarlet Macaw, Canivet's Emerald, Green Parakeet, White-throated Magpie-Jay, Elegant Euphonia, Streak-backed Oriole and more.

Lake Yojoa, created in the basin of an extinct volcano, is ringed by high mountains and is literally surrounded by National Parks. To the east is Cerro Azul, 478 square kms of rainforest, waterfalls, and flowers. To the west, Santa Barbara, home to the majestic Montana de Santa Barbara, the second highest mountain in all of Honduras. The limestone hills to the south provide a great opportunity to explore natural caves. The area is known for its tasty, fresh whole fried fish dishes. 

Several hiking trails wind around the lake and all through the surrounding parks. Here you can spot nearly 500 species of birds including the only endemic bird the amazing Honduran Emerald, Keel-billed Motmot, Resplendent Quetzal, Snail Kite, Yellow-breasted Crake,  Mayan Antthrush, to mention some.

The stronghold of the Lenca people, the largest indigenous group in Honduras, the region abounds with quaint villages and breathtaking mountain views. Explore local markets filled with pottery, colorful fabrics, and woven goods. Is it any surprise that one of the world’s most delicious libations comes from one of its most beautiful destinations? The lush, green hills and mountains that surrounds the town of Marcala are home to Central America’s first Denomination of Origin Seal for the rich, prized coffee they produce. Taste an array of coffees being produced by local farmers and entrepreneurs. Further up, deep in the Guajiquiro cloud forest, broadleaf trees soar skyward above moss and orchids. This is the home of Blue-throated Motmot, Fulvous Owl, Green-throated Mountain-gem, Highland Guan,  Bushy-crested Jay, Slate-colored Solitaire, Brown-backed Solitaire, Ruddy-capped Nightingale-Thrush, Azure-crowned Hummingbird, Mountain Trogon, Spot-crowned Woodcreeper, Yellowish Flycatcher, and more.

For a time in the 16th century, Gracias was the Capital of Spanish Central America and today remains the gateway to the Colosuca Region, renowned for its beautiful Colonial architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. 

Baroque churches dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries remain, along with examples of colonial-era architecture. Explore the many villages – populated mainly by indigenous Lenca people – and discover that each has its own flair. In La Campa, for example, they are experts at making classic utilitarian pottery. Gracias is also the gateway to Celaque National Park, home to Cerro Las Minas, the highest peak in Honduras, where the most adventurous visitors will want to take the 3-day trek, complete with mules for carrying gear and local guides to show the way, to see the cloud forest up-close. After a day exploring, relax in the secluded hot springs on a hillside a few minutes outside of town. Some target birds are: Ocellated Quail, Unicolored Jay, also the Honduran Emerald.

La Tigra National Park, established in 1980,  was the first national park in Honduras. It covers an area of about 238 square kilometers. The cool, moist conditions allow for lush vegetation and a wide range of wildlife. The park’s cloud forest acts as a crucial water source for the capital, Tegucigalpa. Many rivers and streams originate here, supplying water to large parts of the region. 

La Tigra is located near Tegucigalpa, and offer unique opportunities for ecological exploration and are vital in the preservation of Honduras' natural beauty and biodiversity. 

Some birds' targets are: 

Singing Quail, Green-breasted Mountain-gem,  Wine-throated Hummingbird, Northern Emerald-Toucanet,  Rufous-browed Wren, and others.