Parque Nacional Celaque

Celaque National Park is a gem nestled in the western highlands of Honduras, perfect for those who love nature and adventure. It’s home to the country’s tallest peak, Cerro Las Minas, which rises to 2,849 meters and is surrounded by a lush cloud forest.

Celaque National Park covers over 103 square miles across the Lempira, Ocotepeque, and Copán regions. It was established in 1987 to protect the area’s rich biodiversity, which had been threatened by logging and other activities in the previous decades. Today, it’s a haven for a wide variety of plants and animals, making it one of the most impressive national parks in Honduras.

History

The park was created to safeguard its unique ecosystem, which includes the tallest peak in Honduras and the largest cloud forest. The high elevations receive plenty of rain, feeding nine rivers that provide fresh water to over 120 nearby villages, including the regional capital, Gracias. The park is teeming with life, hosting 68 mammal species, nearly 50 reptile species, 20,000 insect species, 287 bird species, and 27 unique amphibian species.

How to Get There

To visit Celaque National Park, you can hop on a tuk-tuk (moto-taxi) from the town of Gracias. The 9 km ride costs about 100 Lempira. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Tegucigalpa to Santa Rosa de Copán, then a combi to the park. The bus ride from Tegucigalpa to Santa Rosa de Copán takes around 3.5 hours and costs about 420 Lempira. From Santa Rosa de Copán, a taxi ride to the park takes about 30 minutes and costs around 150 Lempira.

Things to See

1. Cerro Las Minas: This is the highest peak in Honduras, offering stunning views of the park, nearby volcanoes, and even the Pacific Ocean.
2. Cascada de Celaque: A beautiful waterfall that can be seen from the entire valley.
3. San Juan Waterfall: A breathtaking waterfall accessible via a challenging hike.
4. El Estado Waterfall: Another scenic waterfall that rewards hikers with its beauty.
5. El Cielo Waterfall: A hidden treasure that requires a dedicated hiker to reach its splendor.
6. Cueva de los Murcielagos: A cave with a large bat population, perfect for observing these creatures at sunset.
7. Cueva de los Indios: Another cave with unique geological formations.
8. Cueva del Tigres: A cave with historical significance and unique rock formations.

Ticket Information

The entry fee for foreign visitors is 120 Lempira, while Honduran citizens pay 40 Lempira. If you plan to camp, there is an additional fee of 100 Lempira per person.

Tips for Visiting

1. Hiking: The park has well-marked trails for hikers of all skill levels. The hike to Cerro Las Minas is particularly challenging but rewarding, with a round trip distance of 12.5 miles and over 6,200 feet of elevation gain.
2. Birdwatching: With over 300 bird species, including colorful tropical birds like parrots and toucans, birdwatching is a fantastic way to explore the park’s varied landscapes.
3. Caving: Several caves are scattered throughout the park, but exploring them requires a knowledgeable local guide due to their depth and potential risks.
4. Camping: There are two camping areas: Don Tomas and El Naranjito. El Naranjito is closer to the summit and offers amenities like benches, tables, and firewood.
5. Weather: The higher elevations receive significant rainfall, so it’s best to hike in the morning for clearer views.
6. Wildlife: While spotting pumas, ocelots, and other wildlife is rare, the park is home to these shy creatures, and local guides may have insights into their habitats.
7. Respect the Environment: The park’s biodiversity is fragile; visitors should respect the environment and follow all guidelines to ensure the protection of this unique ecosystem.

Celaque National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and challenging hikes, it’s a must-visit destination in Honduras.