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Copán Day Trip from Guatemala City
Guatemala City, GT
40% of travellers recommend this
Self-guided
Highlights
- Explore UNESCO-listed ruins of Copán
- Learn about Mayan history and culture
- See the monumental Hieroglyphic Staircase
- Visit the Main Ensemble and Cemetery Ensemble
- Enjoy free time to explore Copán town
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Duration 14 hours
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
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Entrance to Copan site included
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Breakfast included
Embark on an unforgettable journey through time with the Copán Day Trip from Guatemala City. Immerse yourself in the captivating archeological ruins of Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site that was once the heart of the Mayan Empire. Travel in comfort on a coach as you make your way to Honduras, where you will be greeted by a knowledgeable guide who will lead you on a 2-hour tour of the ruins. Marvel at the intricate stone monuments, explore the temples of the Yax Kuk Mo dynasty, and decipher the hieroglyphic writing system. Delve into the fascinating history of this ancient civilization and discover intriguing artifacts excavated from the site. With hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and entrance to the Copán Archeological Site included, this tour is a must for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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14 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, Spanish; Castilian
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Viator
Jun 18
After visiting Tikal, it is hard to see other ruins because Tikal was so majestic!!! It was about 9 hours driving from Guatemala and it is not easy driving in Guatemala.
Viator
Feb 17
<p>a very long yourney which was not helped by me not speaking spanish and even though I had to pay double to join the group i was alone , would not recommend this to anyone who is a lone non spanish speaking traveller</p>
Viator
Jan 17
<p>My family decided to go to Copan as a cheaper an alternative to Tikal. The trip to Copan is about 5 and half hours one way but totally worth it. We were the only ones on the tour so it was like a private shuttle and tour! Once there we were greeted by the local tour guide. We had time to do the underground temples at an extra cost- although I did not think they were worth it since there was only two tunnels and most of it had been blocked off. My mother who had been to Tikal before told us that she actually liked Copan better because the story was more interesting and it felt less touristy! I really want to give a shout out to our outstanding driver, Juan! I cannot say enough about this man. Even though he told us beforehand he did not speak a lot of english, we ended up having a great time together and he really made an effort to answer all of our questions! He also translated the menu for us at the restaurant for breakfast and recommended an awesome restaurant in Copan for lunch! Juan opened the door and helped my elderly mother out of the van every time we got out which was extremely appreciated. It only cost about 8 per person to cross the border into Honduras and of course Juan took care of everything else for us so we didn't even have to leave the van. I have traveled to many places around the world and can tell you that its the people that really make the country- Guatemala is no exception- and in this case Juan really made the whole trip!</p>
Viator
Oct 16
<p>This trip has not been reviewed in a couple of years, and I think it really deserves to be reviewed. It was a great experience. We had an amazing driver, Walter, who navigated a delay in our route because of a bridge repair, and he was organized and on time everywhere. He was also a cautious, good driver. We left our hotel at 5 AM and arrived in Copan around 12 only because of traffic backup from the bridge the trip is supposed to take only 4-5 hours. We stopped at a great restaurant for lunch after the Copan tour. Copan itself is amazing and very different from Tikal and its high temples. Copan is known for its beautiful, intact statues and the hieroglyphic staircase. This is a very doable trip in one day-just be ready to be in the car for about ten hours. The scenery is amazing though, so it won't matter. The border crossing is easy too-Walter did everything for us brought paperwork to the border control people, gave us the customs forms, etc. and appeared to know the people too. The fee to cross was 13 per person Walter explained that it depends on the value of the dollar that day. I highly recommend this! The trip is through Gray Line Tours which is a reputable company there. It is also WAY cheaper than other sites and companies I looked at to go to Copan in one day from Guatemala City.</p>
Viator
Jan 14
<p>I definitely would not recommend this tour. First, our driver spoke VERY little English. Note, the driver IS different from the guide at Copan. The guide at Copan was very fluent in English; however, the driver, the person we spent the majority of the day with (all but the time at Copan) spoke very little English. This was frustrating for our group, to say the least. </p>
<p>Second, nowhere on viator’s website or any of the booking information does it say that you’ll be charged 10 Quetzales upon exiting Guatemala and 30 Quetzales upon entering Honduras. Fortunately, our group had the cash handy, but this is the kind of information that MUST be disclosed somewhere.</p>
<p>Lastly, our entire trip was underwhelming to say the least. Our time at Copan ruins was less than the 2 hours stated on the website; in fact, we spent only 1.5 hours at the ruins. We were not given the opportunity to “visit the on-site museum and see the excavated artifacts on display, or walk through the archeological tunnels underneath the Acropolis to view earlier stages of the immense Mayan Empire” as viator’s website says. Also, we had to ask another driver/guide (on a completely different tour) to intervene when our driver wanted to take us straight back to Guatemala City without taking us to the colonial town of San Jose del Copán to get lunch. </p>
<p>All in all, I would NOT recommend this tour. I highly enjoyed my short time at Copan, but this tour experience left much to be desired.</p>
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Copán Day Trip from Guatemala City
Experience the stunning Copán ruins on a full-day guided tour from Guatemala City, uncovering the secrets of the Mayan Empire.
Included
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OtherHotel pickup and drop-off -
OtherProfessional English- and Spanish-speaking guide upon arrival in Copán
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BreakfastBreakfast
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OtherEntrance to Copan Archeological Site
Excluded
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GratuitiesGratuities -
OtherFood and drinks, unless specified
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OtherBorder fee ($5 to $10 depending on nationality) between Guatemala and Honduras
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OtherInmigration procedure
What to expect
In the early morning, meet your driver upon pickup at your Guatemala City hotel and board your comfortable coach for a scenic 6-hour drive to Copán. Along the way, stop for a complimentary Guatemalan breakfast, including beans, eggs and tortillas or bread, and enjoy the company of like-minded travelers.
Once your group crosses the border into western Honduras, it’s only about 37 miles (60 km) to Copán, the country’s most impressive archeological site. This ancient city of the Yax Kuk Mo dynasty dates back to the 7th century and was known as Xukpi by the Mayans.
When you arrive, you will meet with your guide and take a 2-hour tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and explore the incredible stone sculptures, altars and temples with your expert guide, who will point out the five main sections of the city. See the Great Plaza, the Acropolis, the ball court and hieroglyphic stairway, and even visit the underground tunnels if you choose.
Walk around two enormous plazas that divide the Acropolis, housing several significant temples and altar. Your guide will describe how these monuments, as well as Central America’s second-largest ball court, were used. In the Great Plaza, observe the intricate design of the scattered stelae – sculpted stone monuments 9-16 feet (3-5 meters) tall, which chronicle Mayan rulers of the empire!
Climb the 63 steps along the hieroglyphic stairway and view the detail of several thousand carved glyphs, the longest text of the ancient Mayans ever to be discovered. Visit the on-site museum and see the excavated artifacts on display, or walk through the archeological tunnels underneath the Acropolis to view earlier stages of the immense Mayan Empire (additional fee).
Afterward, your guide will take your group to Copán Ruins, a nearby colonial town also known as San Jose del Copán, where you can purchase lunch. Then, relax on the return by coach, arriving at your Guatemala City hotel around 7pm.
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Gray Line Guatemala - Tours & Experiences
Gray Line Guatemala offers an exceptional travel experience for tourists eager to explore the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Guatemala. With a variety of tours and experiences tailored to fit every traveler's needs, you can discover the beauty of this Central American gem in comfort and style.
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HOTEL Y RESTAURANTE SANTA CRUZ
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EL FLORIDO
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Nestled in the lush hills of western Honduras, Copán Ruinas is a captivating archaeological site known for its stunning Mayan ruins, vibrant culture, and rich history. Visitors can explore intricately carved stelae, grand temples, and an impressive acropolis that tell the story of a civilization that flourished over a millennium ago. The charming town itself offers a welcoming atmosphere with local markets, traditional cuisine, and the warm hospitality of its people, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure and culture.
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Gray Line Guatemala offers an exceptional travel experience for tourists eager to explore the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Guatemala. With a variety of tours and experiences tailored to fit every traveler's needs, you can discover the beauty of this Central American gem in comfort and style.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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A current valid passport is required on the day of travel -
For groups of 10 persons or more, please contact local provider to arrange.
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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It is recommended that you bring walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, and a camera.
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Minimum of 2 passengers (adults) is required for the tour to run. If the minimum size is not reached, the tour is subject to cancellation and all tickets are refunded or rescheduled.
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Please contact local provider if you need a guide in any other language. French, German and Italian in private services, subject to additional costs and guide availability.
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Tours include bilingual guide (English and Spanish).
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Gray Line Guatemala
What our experts say
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Bring comfortable walking shoes. -
Visit the on-site museum for artifacts.
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Don't miss the underground tunnels tour.
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Try local food options in San Jose del Copán.
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Ensure your passport is valid for border crossing.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the wonders of the ancient Mayan Empire with the Copán Day Trip from Guatemala City. This captivating tour takes you on a journey back in time to the archeological ruins of Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site in Honduras. Embark on a comfortable coach ride from Guatemala City, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, before immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilization.What to Expect
During this full-day trip, you can anticipate an immersive exploration of Copán's archeological ruins. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll discover the fascinating remains of the Yax Kuk Mo dynasty. Marvel at the intricate temples, elaborated stone monuments, and hieroglyphic writing system, which provide insights into the Mayan Empire's past glory. Delve into the world of ancient artifacts excavated from the site, and gain a deeper understanding of the Mayan civilization's achievements and beliefs.Who is This For
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture lovers alike. Whether you're an experienced traveler or new to exploring ancient civilizations, the Copán Day Trip caters to all curious souls. Delve into the mysteries of the Mayan Empire and expand your knowledge of this intriguing chapter in human history. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the grandeur of Copán's archeological wonders.Why Book This
Embarking on the Copán Day Trip offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, education, and cultural immersion. As you traverse the ancient ruins, you'll be transported to a time long gone, and gain a deep appreciation for the Mayan civilization's achievements. The knowledgeable guides will provide captivating insights and stories, making the experience truly come alive. The comfortable coach ride allows you to sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning landscapes along the way. Don't miss the chance to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and witness the awe-inspiring remnants of the Mayan Empire.Good to Know
For your convenience, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The professional English- and Spanish-speaking guide will be with you from the moment you arrive in Copán, providing valuable insights and answering any questions you may have. Please note that food and drinks are excluded, but you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast. Additionally, be prepared for a border fee between Guatemala and Honduras, as well as immigration procedures. Don't forget to show your gratitude to the guides and staff for their exceptional service.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on the Copán Day Trip rave about the mesmerizing experience of exploring the ancient Mayan ruins. They describe the knowledgeable guides as passionate and engaging, bringing the history and culture to life. Visitors are particularly impressed by the well-preserved temples and the intricate hieroglyphic writing system, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the Mayan civilization. Many reviewers also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the comfortable coach ride. Overall, the Copán Day Trip is highly recommended for those seeking a unique and enriching adventure into the wonders of the Mayan Empire.
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