Description:
Looking for the perfect mix of spectacular diving, whitewater adventure, friendly people and Latin American culture? On this popular hands-on journey, travel through Honduras' rolling countryside, tropical jungles and mountainous Bay Islands for the experience of a lifetime! Often compared to the unspoiled Costa Rica of 15-20 years ago, the treasures of this amazing country are ours to discover. Wake up to the rich smell of a coffee plantation and the exciting sounds of class IV river rapids. Explore lush rainforests as you zip line through the canopy with local naturalists. Scuba dive on Utila's magnificent reefs, walls, wrecks and pinnacles where scientists come together to study whale sharks, dolphins, reef conservation and marine ecology. Throughout our adventures, experience the rich and diverse Honduran culture from the ancient Maya to coastal Garifuna people.
Our archeological and cultural discovery begins as we explore the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins of Copán. Then spend three days on the elevated hills of Santa Isabel, learning from the cowboys how a coffee and cardamom plantation is run. The smells from this 12,000 acre ranch fill the air and hint at our adventures here — sulfur rising from hot springs, dusty saddlebags from our horseback riding or the spicy twist of the cardamom blended coffee.
Head to the coast to explore the blue waters of Punta Sal National Park. Spot a camouflaged scorpion fish on a secluded snorkel. Dry off to feast with members of the Garifuna tribe and watch their colorful dances. Tour the vibrant botanical gardens surrounding your hacienda and learn about tropical rainforest ecosystems and conservation efforts on a hike up to waterfalls that pour into the whitewater of the Rio Congréjal. Jump in! Familiarize yourself with this river's untamed rapids as you work together to paddle your raft past howler monkeys and toucans lurking in the trees.
A quick ferry ride takes us to the postcard perfect Bay Island of Utila. Our comfortable lodge on a secluded palm fringed beach is just steps away from some of the Caribbean's best diving. Plunge below to discover a wide variety of sites on the world's second largest barrier reef, from fringing reefs and sheer walls to underwater mounts and mysterious wrecks. Above the waterline, sea kayak, explore jungle caves, search for iguanas and play on white sand beaches. From this beautiful island and the mystical sea to ancient ruins and dense jungle, expert ecologists and guides open our eyes to the environmental and cultural wonders of Central America's coolest country.
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