Orientation

It may be confusing, but the actual Maya ruins here are called Copán, while the little town is officially known as Copán Ruínas. Most folks refer to it generically as Copán or make the appropriate distinction when necessary. The town is very compact, and everything of importance is located within a 4-block radius of the central plaza. No official street names are actually used, and directions are given in relation to the central plaza or some other known landmark.

Visitor Information

Banco Atlántida and BAC both front the central plaza and are fast and safe places to exchange money or use an ATM. To contact the local police, dial tel. 504/2651-4060. The post office (tel. 504/2651-4447; Mon-Sat 8am-noon, Mon-Fri 2-5pm) is located just west of the Copán Museum.

There are a few Internet cafes around town; most charge around L20 to L40 per hour. For medical emergencies, ask your hotel or call Dr. Boqui at the Clínica Handal (tel. 504/2651-4408). Hondutel, a half-block south of the central plaza, and La Casa de Todo (1 block from the park; tel. 504/2651-4689) are the best places for international phone calls. La Casa de Todo also has the best laundry service in town.

Border Crossing: El Florido

Crossing the border at El Florido on your way to Guatemala City or Antigua is relatively easy, and the crossing is now open 24 hours a day, so the long waits and crowds that the point was once known for have diminished significantly. Be prepared to pay the L20 departure tax (although some travelers have been asked for more) leaving Honduras and a L25 fee to enter Guatemala. Both sides accept lempira and quetzals, Guatemala's national currency, although moneychangers are everywhere. If you're driving a rental car, be sure to have all your papers in order and clear the trip with the rental-car agency in advance.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.