Copan Ruinas is one of the most impressive Maya archaeological sites in Central America, famous for its intricate stelae, hieroglyphic stairway, and bird-filled tropical setting. Located just across the border in western Honduras, it is a popular day trip or overnight excursion from Guatemala.

Getting There

Several companies operate daily shuttle service from Antigua to Copan Ruinas, handling the border crossing for you.

Departure: Usually 4:00-5:00 AM from Antigua (early start due to the distance). Route: Antigua to Guatemala City to Chiquimula to El Florido border to Copan Ruinas. Duration: 5-6 hours total, including the border stop. Price: Q310-540 ($40-70) per person, depending on company and season. Book through: Adrenalina Tours, Atitrans, GuateGo, or your hotel.

The shuttle handles the border logistics. You exit the van at El Florido, walk through Guatemalan immigration (exit stamp), cross the bridge, walk through Honduran immigration (entry stamp), and re-board on the other side.

Bus Route via Chiquimula (Budget)

  1. Guatemala City to Chiquimula: Rutas Orientales or Litegua bus, Q40-60, 3-3.5 hours.
  2. Chiquimula to El Florido (border): Minibus from the Chiquimula market, Q25-30, 1.5 hours.
  3. Border crossing at El Florido: Walk through both immigration offices. No fee for CA-4 nationals. Some non-CA-4 passports may be charged a small fee.
  4. El Florido to Copan Ruinas: Minibus, Q20-30, 30 minutes.

Total cost: Q100-180. Total time: 6-7 hours with connections.

Hedman Alas (Currently Suspended)

Hedman Alas, the premium international bus company, previously operated direct service from Guatemala City and Antigua to Copan Ruinas. This route has been suspended since 2020 with no announced reopening date.

Check status: WhatsApp +50494413276 or hedmanalas.com.

Border Crossing: El Florido

The El Florido border crossing is small and relatively hassle-free compared to other Central American borders.

What to expect:

  1. Exit the vehicle at the Guatemala side.
  2. Walk to Guatemala immigration. Get your exit stamp. (Keep your entry stamp receipt if you have one.)
  3. Walk across the bridge (100 meters) to Honduras immigration.
  4. Get your Honduras entry stamp.
  5. Re-board your shuttle or catch a minibus to Copan Ruinas.

CA-4 agreement: Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua share a 90-day visa. Crossing between these countries does not reset your time. If you entered Guatemala 60 days ago, you have 30 days left in the CA-4 zone total.

Processing time: 20-40 minutes for both sides during normal periods. Longer during holidays.

About Copan Ruinas

The town of Copan Ruinas is a charming colonial village with cobblestone streets, good restaurants, and affordable hotels. The archaeological site is 1 km from town (walkable or tuk-tuk Q10).

Site entrance fees:

  • Archaeological park: $15 USD
  • Sculpture museum: $7 USD
  • Las Sepulturas: $3 USD
  • Macaw rehabilitation center: Free

Best time to visit: The site is beautiful year-round. Early morning visits (8:00-10:00 AM) offer the best light for photography and fewer crowds.

Tips

  • Bring US dollars. Honduras uses the Lempira, but Copan Ruinas town accepts USD everywhere. ATMs in town dispense Lempiras.
  • Overnight recommended. While a day trip is possible, spending one night in Copan Ruinas lets you explore the site at a relaxed pace.
  • Return shuttles leave Copan Ruinas in the afternoon (typically 2:00-3:00 PM) and arrive in Antigua by 8:00-9:00 PM.
  • Bring your passport. You need it for the border crossing. Make sure it has at least 6 months validity.

Prices verified March 2026. Exchange rate: Q7.72 per USD.