Santa Rosa de Copan

Santa Rosa de Copán is a delightful town tucked away in the western highlands of Honduras. It’s a place where colonial history meets natural beauty, and the locals are as warm as the climate is pleasant. With its charming colonial architecture and a vibe that invites you to slow down and enjoy, it’s a spot that should be on every traveler’s list.

History

Santa Rosa de Copán has a fascinating past that stretches back to the colonial days. In 1793, the Spanish crown designated it as the site of the Royal Tobacco Factory, which brought wealth and importance to the area. While tobacco is still grown here, coffee has taken over as the main export. Today, Santa Rosa de Copán is the largest city in the highlands and serves as the capital of the Copán department.

How to Get There

Getting to Santa Rosa de Copán is pretty straightforward. You can fly into San Pedro Sula, the closest international airport, and then take a scenic 2-1/2 hour drive along the Western Highway. If you prefer public transport, there are hourly buses from San Pedro Sula operated by Copanecos, Toritos, and Congolón. Buses also run from Tegucigalpa, either through San Pedro Sula or via the picturesque Opalaca Range. If you’re coming from El Salvador or Guatemala, there are bus options available too.

Things to See

1. Flor de Copán Cigar Factory: Known for its hand-rolled cigars, including the Zino line, this factory offers tours where you can see the cigar-making process and buy cigars directly from the outlet.
2. Beneficio Maya Coffee Factory: This place is a coffee lover’s dream. You can learn about coffee production and taste some of the best brews around.
3. Central Park: A beautifully maintained park perfect for people-watching. It has a kiosk with a Tourist Information Center, maps, internet access, and city info.
4. Cathedral: The white-washed Catholic cathedral is a stunning piece of colonial architecture dedicated to Saint Rose of Lima, perfect for photos.
5. El Cerrito Park: Located on a hill, this park features a replica of a Maya Stela and offers hiking trails through a lovely forest.
6. Local Market: A vibrant place to explore, offering fresh produce, local souvenirs, and everyday items.

Ticket Information

– Flor de Copán Cigar Factory Tour: Tours are available on weekdays at 10:00 and 14:00 in Spanish, and at 11:00 and 16:00 in English. The cost is $5 per person.
– Beneficio Maya Coffee Factory Tour: You can arrange a tour through your hotel front desk or contact Mr. Max Elvir of Lenca Land Trails.

Tips for Visiting

1. Walking Tours: The town is safe and easy to explore on foot, with friendly locals and affordable taxis if you need them.
2. Local Guides: Mr. Max Elvir of Lenca Land Trails is a knowledgeable guide who can offer insights into the area’s history and culture.
3. Cultural Events: The central plaza often hosts events with music and food, providing a taste of local traditions.
4. Food and Drink: Don’t miss trying Baked Chanchita, Ticucos, and Totopostes. The Timoshenko coffee liqueur is a unique local beverage worth sampling.
5. Shopping: The local market is great for souvenirs, and Kaldi’s coffee shop is perfect for a coffee break with pastries.
6. Hiking: El Cerrito Park offers trails for hiking, but it’s wise to hire a local guide as the paths aren’t well-marked.
7. Events: The annual fair in the last two weeks of August is a highlight, featuring religious observances, beauty pageants, street carnivals, and cultural performances.

Santa Rosa de Copán is truly a hidden gem in Honduras. Whether you’re into cigars, coffee, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, this charming town will leave a lasting impression.