3 Best Sights in Honduras' Caribbean Coast, Honduras

Guaruma Nature Trails

This nonprofit organization is developing ecotourism in the Cangrejal River watershed by improving trails and training the local youth to give guided hikes. The Sendero Guaruma is a two-hour excursion that passes freshwater pools, tropical fruit trees, and medicinal plants. The hike on the Sendero La Muralla lasts four hours and includes a visit to a rural village. Sendero La Vista is also four hours and offers astounding views of the river and valley.

Refugio de Vida Silvestre Cuero y Salado

About 27 km (17 mi) west of La Ceiba, the Refugio de Vida Silvestre Cuero y Salado is made up of 132 square km (51 square mi) of tropical forest formed by the confluence of the Río Cuero and Río Salado. This is one of the few places in the world where you can see manatees, aquatic creatures once mistaken for mermaids. In addition to these gentle giants, you may also spot white-faced monkeys, crocodiles, turtles, and several species of herons along the canals. The mangroves are best seen by boat, and the park organizes two-hour guided tours. The Fundación Cuero y Salado visitor center has information about the park.

To get to the park, drive west from La Ceiba, turning right after crossing the Río Bonito. Stop at the railway tracks. From here you can take the small "banana train" run by the Honduran National Railroad or a burra (a handcart operated by locals) for the remaining 9 km (6 mi). Trains leave the community of La Union seven times from 7 am to 2 pm, and return trips are 30 minutes after each La Union departure.

Refugio de Vida Silvestre Punta Izopo

It's essential to hire a guide if you want to visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre Punta Izopo, a wildlife refuge east of Tela that's irrigated by the Plátano and Hicaque rivers. It's easy to get lost in this labyrinth where even locals don't go alone. The best way to see the refuge is by kayak, letting you navigate the maze of mangroves along the Río Plátano without disturbing the wildlife. You can spot howler monkeys, crocodiles, and iguanas, as well as toucans and parrots that come around late in the afternoon. Garífuna Tours organizes late-night crocodile watches here.

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