2-Day Tour: Following The Maya Path and Copán Ruins

Exploring the rich cultural tapestry of the Maya civilization is an opportunity not to be missed. This 2-day tour takes adventurers on a journey through the ancient sites of El Salvador and Honduras, offering an immersive experience that delves into the architectural wonders and captivating history that have stood the test of time. From the pre-Hispanic ruins of San Andrés to the UNESCO-protected Copán Ruins, this carefully curated itinerary promises to transport participants to a world of intrigue and wonder. With thoughtful inclusions and expert guidance, the stage is set for an unforgettable discovery of the Maya’s enduring legacy.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour explores the pre-Hispanic site of San Andrés in El Salvador and the renowned UNESCO World Heritage site of Copán Ruins in Honduras.
• The tour includes guided visits, entrance fees, transportation, accommodation, and meals, providing a comprehensive experience for travelers.
• Highlights of the tour include learning about Mayan history and culture at San Andrés and the guided exploration of the Copán Ruins archaeological site.
• Travelers must have a valid passport to ensure smooth border crossing between El Salvador and Honduras, and be prepared for additional costs such as border taxes.
• The tour provides various pickup options and accommodations designed for different group sizes, catering to a range of traveler preferences.

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour allows visitors to explore the Maya Path and Copán Ruins, immersing them in the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilization.

Traveling from San Salvador, El Salvador, the tour features visits to the pre-Hispanic Mayan site of San Andrés and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Copán Ruins in Honduras.

With an average rating of 5.0 from 5 reviews, the tour is priced from $285.00 per person, varying by group size.

Included in the package are a knowledgeable guide, overnight accommodation, entrance fees, transportation, meals, and national park fees, ensuring a comprehensive and seamless experience for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

Itinerary

The tour begins on the first day with a visit to the pre-Hispanic Mayan site of San Andrés in El Salvador, where visitors can explore the remnants of an agricultural town that served as the capital of a Mayan manor between 600 and 900 AD. The admission ticket is included, and the tour allows for a 1-hour visit.

In the afternoon, the group will arrive at the town of Copán Ruinas in Honduras to begin their exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

On the second day, the tour includes a 3-hour guided visit to the Copán Ruins, where an English-speaking guide will provide insights into this important Mayan archaeological site.

San Andrés Mayan Site

San Andrés was a pre-Hispanic Mayan site in El Salvador, where occupation began around 900 BC as an agricultural town. It later served as the capital of a Mayan manor between 600 and 900 AD.

Visitors to this tour will have the opportunity to explore this ancient site, with an admission ticket included in the package. The tour provides a 1-hour visit to San Andrés, allowing travelers to enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of this Mayan settlement.

This stop on the itinerary offers a glimpse into the fascinating past of the Maya civilization, complementing the main highlight of the tour – the UNESCO World Heritage site of Copán Ruins.

Copán Ruins Exploration

Visitors typically arrive in the afternoon to explore this small town in Honduras, home to the renowned Copán Ruins – a UNESCO World Heritage site that features an impressive array of Mayan architectural wonders.

During the guided visit, an English-speaking guide provides insights into the rich history and cultural significance of this ancient site. The Copán Ruins tour lasts around 3 hours, with admission included in the tour price, though entrance to the on-site tunnels and museum is an additional cost.

Travelers have praised the quality of the guides, who are described as knowledgeable and professional, ensuring a memorable exploration of this captivating Mayan archaeological gem.

Passport Requirement

According to the information provided, a valid passport is required on the day of travel for this 2-day tour. This is an important requirement for all participants to ensure a smooth border crossing between El Salvador and Honduras during the tour. The passport must be valid and in good condition to be accepted by border authorities.

Passport Requirement
Requirement	Valid passport
When Needed	On the day of travel
Additional Info	Must be in good condition

Failure to have a valid passport could result in being denied entry or delay, so travelers should double-check their passport status before embarking on this journey to uncover the wonders of the Maya civilization.

Hotel Accommodation

The tour accommodations cater to different group sizes, with 3 persons sharing a room with 2 beds, and 4 persons split between 2 twin bed rooms. This arrangement ensures efficient use of space and comfortable lodging for all participants.

The hotel selection give you a pleasant and restful experience, allowing travelers to recharge after a day of exploration.

While some reviewers noted that the hotel quality didn’t fully meet 3-star standards, the overall accommodations are designed to complement the immersive Mayan adventure, prioritizing convenience and practicality over luxury.

The tour operator’s attention to group dynamics and travelers’ needs helps create a cohesive and enjoyable experience throughout the journey.

Pickup Options

Travelers can either meet the tour directly at the designated meeting point or arrange for hotel pickup in selected San Salvador hotels, though an additional fee may apply for the latter option.

The meeting point is at Tours El Salvador, located at Cond Balam quitze, P. Gral. Escalón 1a, San Salvador. Travelers who opt for hotel pickup will be collected from their accommodations in the city.

While the hotel pickup option offers added convenience, it may incur an extra charge beyond the base tour price. Regardless of the starting point, the tour ensures a seamless experience as travelers embark on their journey to explore the Maya Path and the Copán Ruins.

Additional Costs

Beyond the base tour price, travelers should expect two additional costs.

First, there’s a $3 USD border tax that must be paid directly at the border, which isn’t included in the tour price.

Plus, admission tickets for the Copán Ruins museum and tunnels aren’t covered by the tour and must be purchased separately upon arrival.

While these extra fees aren’t factored into the overall cost, they’re important to keep in mind when budgeting for the trip.

The tour does, however, include the main admission fees to the archaeological sites, as well as other core components like transportation, meals, and an English-speaking guide, providing good value overall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Specific Interests?

Customers can likely customize the tour to their specific interests. The tour provider may offer flexible options or allow requests for modifications to the standard itinerary, within reason. However, availability and additional costs may apply.

What Is the Process for Booking and Paying for the Tour?

To book and pay for the tour, travelers can contact the tour operator directly. The process typically includes selecting their desired travel dates, providing personal details, and making the full payment upfront to secure their spot on the tour.

Are There Any Physical Fitness Requirements for This Tour?

There are no specific physical fitness requirements for this tour. Participants should be able to walk for 3-4 hours at a moderate pace. The tour involves exploring archaeological sites, which may require some mild hiking on uneven terrain.

Can I Extend or Modify the Tour Duration?

Guests can typically extend or modify the tour duration, though additional fees may apply. The tour operator is generally flexible and willing to accommodate requests, subject to availability and any associated costs.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Departure Times or Meeting Point?

Yes, the tour does offer some flexibility in departure times and meeting points. Customers can choose to be picked up directly from their hotel or meet at the designated meeting point in San Salvador, though additional fees may apply for hotel pickup.

Recap

The 2-day tour offers a captivating journey into the ancient Maya civilization.

Visitors can explore the pre-Hispanic site of San Andrés and the renowned Copán Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

With accommodations, meals, transportation, and expert guidance included, this package provides a comprehensive and memorable adventure through the rich cultural heritage of the Maya people.