Copan and Quirigua Overnight Trip from Antigua

Journey into the heart of the ancient Mayan civilization as you visit two of its most fascinating archaeological sites at Copán and Quirigua on this 2-day overnight trip from Antigua. Along the way you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the innovative architecture and thoughtful design of this sophisticated culture.

Start your trip with a pickup from your Antigua hotel at 6am on the first day, proceeding on a picturesque drive through Guatemala and across the border into Honduras. Your first stop is at Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated just 37 miles (60 km) over the Honduras border. This intricately-designed metropolis is renowned as one of the best examples of the Pre-Columbian Mayan culture. Follow your guide as you explore the vast plazas, temples and carvings of the site, representing more than 4,000 total structures.

Make a special trip to investigate Copán’s Great Plaza, found on the northern edge of the city, before proceeding on to visit Altar Q, a highly detailed monument that chronicles the succession of 16 kings that ruled this ancient city. Stop for lunch at your own expense in Copán, followed by an afternoon of free time to wander the ruins at your leisure before spending the night at your included hotel room.

On the second day, grab an early breakfast at your hotel continuing on to your second UNESCO World Heritage-listed site at Quirigua. This unique archaeological site, located 31 miles (50 km) from Copán, is famous for having the tallest stela, or commemorative stone pillars, in all of the Mayan world. Check out Quirigua’s Gran Plaza before spending some time admiring its various stelae, the highest of which is more than 32 feet (10m) tall. Take time for lunch in Quirigua before heading back to Antigua for drop-off at your hotel.