Downtown Copán Ruinas boasts two fascinating museums, both within a block of our hotel.

The Maya Archaeology Museum includes many original Copán artefacts, including Stela 7, which was originally found near the site of the hotel. The museum is open 8 a.m. to noon, and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Admission $2.

The Casa K'inich Children's Learning Center, the world's only museum devoted to introducing children to the ancient Maya, is equally compelling for adults. Interactive exhibits are in three languages (English, Spanish, and the local Chortí Maya dialect). The museum is open 8 a.m. to noon, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Admission is free.

Local girls learn Maya music at Casa K´inich

Just five minutes from downtown, the Macaw Mountain Bird Park and Nature Reserve is the most exciting new tourism and conservation project in Central America. Brilliantly colored parrots, macaws, and toucans- including several that are rare and endangered - can be viewed along tranquil, shaded forest trails. The Hotel Marina Copan is pleased to offer this lovely park as an unforgettable setting for special events. Click here to learn more. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission $10, valid for three consecutive days.

Interact with colorful tropical birds at Macaw Mountain

Just west of town is the Enchanted Wings Butterfly House and Nature Exhibit, which boasts over 30 species of butterflies, as well as an orchid exhibit with more than 200 species. A 5-terrace greenhouse with waterfalls provides a verdant backdrop for viewing the butterflies. Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Entrance fee Lps. 100 (approximately $5.50).

cultural > archaeology · parks/museums · indigenous people · colonial towns