About the Copán Ruins day tour
The Copán Ruins day tour takes you from San Salvador to the most beautiful Maya city in Central America. Copán was a powerful city-state between the 5th and 10th centuries, closely linked to Tikal, and no other Maya site has as many sculptures and carvings on its temples, altars and stelae. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980.
The road to Copán
We leave El Salvador through the Anguiatú border, cross a short stretch of Guatemala with rural landscapes and local markets, and enter Honduras at El Florido. Your guide helps you at both borders.
The archaeological site
A certified local guide takes you through the Great Plaza and its carved stelae and altars, the Hieroglyphic Stairway, with more than 1,250 glyphs, the longest known Maya inscription, and the Acropolis with its temples, courtyards and tunnels. We also see the ball court and the homes of the Maya elite.
Copán Ruinas town
After the visit we have lunch in the town of Copán Ruinas, with cobblestone streets and colonial houses (lunch not included). Then you have free time for craft shops, a local coffee or souvenirs before the drive back.
See all 9 photos
Highlights
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The Hieroglyphic Stairway, the longest Maya inscription
- Carved stelae and altars of the Great Plaza
- The Acropolis and the ball court
- Free time in the town of Copán Ruinas
- Help at the borders
Copán Ruins day tour itinerary
Hotel or Airbnb pickup
Your guide picks you up in San Salvador. Bring your passport.
Borders
We cross from El Salvador into Guatemala at Anguiatú and into Honduras at El Florido.
Copán archaeological site
Guided visit of the Great Plaza, the Hieroglyphic Stairway, the Acropolis and the ball court.
Lunch and free time
Lunch in Copán Ruinas town (not included) and time to explore.
Return
We drive back to San Salvador and arrive around 7:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Route map
What’s included
Included
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or Airbnb in San Salvador
- Transport in a comfortable vehicle
- Bilingual guide and help at the borders
- Entrance to Copán Ruins
- Certified local guide at the site
Not included
- Lunch, snacks and drinks
- Honduras border fee (about $3–5, cash)
- Tips (optional)
Prices
| Group size | Per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $350 |
| 2 people | $220 |
| 3 people | $200 |
| 4 to 5 people | $185 |
| 6 people | $183 |
| 7 to 10 people | from $155 |
Traveling solo? The price drops to $220 if other travelers join your date.
Copán Ruins day tour: common questions
Do I need a passport?+
Yes. A valid passport is required because we cross two borders (El Salvador–Guatemala and Guatemala–Honduras). Some nationalities need a visa for Honduras, so please check ahead.
Is there a border fee?+
Yes. Honduras charges a tourist fee of about $3 to $5 per person at El Florido. It is not included and must be paid in cash.
Is the entrance to Copán included?+
Yes. The entrance and a certified local guide at the site are included.
Is lunch included?+
No. We stop at a recommended restaurant in Copán Ruinas town.
Is it good for kids and older travelers?+
Yes, for travelers in good health. There is walking on uneven ground and the day is long because of the drive.
How do I book and pay?+
You can book through our website and pay by credit or debit card.
Can I join if I’m traveling solo?+
Absolutely. We’ll add you to an existing group. Send us a WhatsApp with your date.
Before you go
- Your valid passport
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and a hat
- A water bottle
- Cash in small USD bills for the border fee and lunch
- A camera or phone for photos
What travelers say
“Rafa took us to so many places I never would’ve been able to do on my own. He was a perfect guide, able to answer any questions but also giving space to enjoy and have fun.”
- “Best last day :)”
- “Professional Driving Skills”
- “A beautiful experience”