I visited the ruins at Copan on February 18, 2009 and stayed in the nearby village of Copan Ruinas, which lies only a 1km walk away along a specially paved walkway. On the walk, you'll pass several still unexcavated mounds and a sculpture or two. You can also take a taxi,which are really three wheeled pickups, for about $0.60.

Unlike the Mayan ruins at Chichen, Coba and, as noted in the previous post, Tikal these ruins do not cover a wide area but what they do offer are many intricately carved stele or stone columns celebrating the accomplishments of several of the Mayan rulers of the city. These stele, most of them on a central plaza, inspired the noted archeologist Linda Schele to describe the site as "A Forest of Kings." Unfortunately two or three of the most beautiful stelae and sacrificial altars are represented by reproductions, the originals having been moved to the nearby museum. Entrance to the ruins, the museum and recently dug tunnels under the so-called "Acropolis" are separate. Currently it's $15 for this site (and Las Sepulturas), $7 for the museum and $12 for the tunnels for non-residents For most visitors the ruins alone would be enough, the museum is optional and the tunnels are interesting but not, in my opinion, worth the steep price. Plan on spending at least 3 hours at the site; guides are available and well informed. There are several nature trails also on the site A visit to the smaller "Sepulturas' site, 2km away along a special path that parallels the highway so you don't have to worry about being run over, is worthwhile if only to see the residential area and get an idea of daily life among the Maya as opposed to the ceremonial. Make that decision based on time, interest in Mayan ruins and history as well as the heat of the day. There are no refreshments available at that site or along the path so bring water if you go.

Depending on your schedule and travel plans you should consider staying over in Copan Ruinas. Although the town is geared to tourism, with its souvenir and "craft shops" it retains a charm and laid back style in a beautiful setting. A stroll and dinner in the cool of the evening is certainly worthwhile and there is frequent bus service to other cities in Honduras as well as back to Guatemala.