Travel Budget for Copan Visit Copan on a Budget or Travel in Style

Copan, Departamento de Copan, Honduras
Central America / Honduras /
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Copan is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Copan?

A typical traveler spends $99 (L2,595) per day on a trip to Copan. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Copan based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $34 (L905) on meals
  • $73 (L1,929) on local transportation
  • $42 (L1,109) on hotels

A one-week trip to Copan for two people costs, on average, $1,384 (L36,330). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $99
    L2,595
  • One Week Per person
    $692
    L18,165
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,384
    L36,330
  • One Month Per person
    $2,967
    L77,850
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,384
    L36,330
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $2,769
    L72,660
  • One Month For a couple
    $5,933
    L155,700
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Copan cost?

A one week trip to Copan usually costs around $692 (L18,165) for one person and $1,384 (L36,330) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Copan on average costs around $1,384 (L36,330) for one person and $2,769 (L72,660) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Copan will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Copan on average costs around $2,967 (L77,850) for one person and $5,933 (L155,700) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Copan expensive to visit?

In Copan, budget travelers spend $42 (L1,109) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $99 (L2,595) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $205 (L5,352) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Copan.

Copan is a smaller destination that invites a diverse group of visitors, each with unique travel styles, spending behaviors, and budget levels. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.

You can find Copan to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like looking for discounts and coupons can help you save money.

Within Central America, Copan is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Bocas del Toro or Panama City.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Copan Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Copan?

The average Copan trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Copan travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Copan cost?

Copan on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$9
(L228) 		$21
(L555) 		$48
(L1,267)
Local Transportation1 $32
(L844) 		$73
(L1,929) 		$140
(L3,685)
Food2 $15
(L384) 		$34
(L905) 		$73
(L1,908)
Entertainment1 $10
(L274) 		$24
(L623) 		$45
(L1,171)
Alcohol2 $1-4
(L39-117) 		$3-10
(L89-267) 		$6-19
(L170-509)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Copan without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.

Copan on a Shoestring Budget?

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $42 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most guests in Copan will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $99 per person, per day.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $205 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the destination will require a luxury budget.



Accommodation Budget in Copan

The hotel prices in Copan might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $, but during peak season, expect to pay around $. Prices vary from $ to $, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Copan for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $42 (L1,109). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $21 (L555) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $21
    L555
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $42
    L1,109

Hotels in Copan

Looking for a hotel in Copan? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Copan

If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and avoid ), you'll find lower accommodation prices and less tourist crowds.



Transportation Budget in Copan

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $73 (L1,929) per person, per day, on local transportation in Copan. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Copan is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $73
    L1,929

The city of Copan is very small so getting around is not really a concern. The area is completely walk-able and safe. If the cobblestones make you nervous, or you'd rather not walk, there is a Honduran version of a rickshaw called mototaxis. They'll take you in anywhere in town and are fairly inexpensive.



Flights to Copan
How much does it cost to go to Copan? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Copan
The price of renting a car in Copan will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Copan

For many, the local food is a significant part of the travel experience, so don't miss the chance to enjoy it.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Copan can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Copan is $34 (L905) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $34
    L905

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Copan is around $35 (L905) per person, with previous travelers spending from $15 to $73. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Copan are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $3 to $10
  • Lunch: $5 to $14
  • Dinner: $10 to $24
  • Coffee: $3
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $5

While you will find many places with traditional, tropical dishes, you'll also find plenty of "North American" meals. At most restaurants you'll find the Plato tipico de Honduras which includes beef strips, beans, fried plantains, tortillas, cabbage and sour cream.

Also, don't miss out on licuados – a water or milk-based fruit smoothie that is well worth the money you'll spend on it every morning.

Food & Dining Tips

A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.

Use a water bottle instead of splurging on drinks everywhere you go. It's a smart choice for the environment, too.

Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Copan

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Copan typically cost an average of $24 (L623) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $24
    L623

Hands down, the highlight of Copan is Las Copan Ruinas. The core of this ancient city is 600 by 300 meters of stunning archaeological discoveries. Between the carved constellations and preserved hieroglyphics, there is no shortage of things to see. There are smaller structures and, of course, the Acropolis. Once the royal complex, the Acropolis consists of two plazas and extensive, hieroglyphic-lined tunnels running underneath.

The Hieroglyphic Stairway is believed to represent the most important rulers in the dynastic history of the site. With a total of 62 steps, the stairway is covered in 2200 glyphs that form the longest known Maya hieroglyphic text. And, the Ballcourt is a sculpture built in the year 738, and is dedicated to the great macaw deity.

The Altar Q is the most famous monument at Las Copan Ruinas. The Copan dynasty is carved around its side. Each king is depicted seated on his own name glyph and the order of the carvings visually portrays the political succession of early classic Maya culture.

The Motmot Capstone is a memorial to the first two kings of the Copan dynasty. The inscribed stone placed over a tomb names mythological locations underneath the feet of the two kings – thereby putting them in a supernatural realm.

Take a visit to the Mayan Museum for a deeper look into the history that surrounds you. The museum houses a reconstructed temple and fantastic artifacts.

A word of warning, try to get to Las Copan Ruinas early in the morning as it gets very hot by midday. Also, if you're there near the opening hours, you might catch the guards feeding the macaws. While history buffs can easily make two days last in Las Copan Ruinas, but many people can see the whole place in 2 - 4 hours.



After you have explored all you can find in the ruins, there are lots of other things to do in Copan.

The Macaw Mountain is a fascinating bird sanctuary set in a gorgeous backdrop of Honduran jungle. There is a swimming hole for a quick chance to cool down, and the birds are brought out for tourists to hold, providing the perfect photo opportunity, around 3 pm.

If the swimming holes just were not enough for you, head over to Luna Jaguar Aguas Termales for the natural hot springs spa. There are several pools of differing temperatures to please any tourist. Be sure to bring your own food!

It wouldn't be Central America without at least one zip-line trip. Copan is a great spot for the zip-lining adventurer given that it has one of the world's longest sip-lines. At 1,000 meters long, this zip-line should be on the top of every thrill-seeker's bucket list.

Or you could take an afternoon to enjoy a leisurely horseback ride from La Pintada to Maya Chorti to Los Sapos – a small ruin not included in the Los Copan Ruinas.



Nightlife Budget in Copan

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $6.77 (L178) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Copan per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $6.77
    L178
Nightlife Tips

Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.



Travel cost data last updated: Aug 14, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Copan

  • Traveling a little slower can help you save money, as you can enjoy a lot of the beauty of the area while you relax. If you pack all of the activities into every day, you'll end up spending lots of money. But if you take it a little slower and enjoy your time, you'll usually end up spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Copan has limited options for public transportation. You might want to have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour or private driver. This may cut into your budget elsewhere.
  • Hostels are not plentiful in Copan, so if you're banking on finding a budget dorm, it may be time to rethink your travel plans. A cheap hotel or apartment rental could be a much better option.
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Traveling in Copan
Copan Copan, Honduras

If you are a lover of history, or just really want to tap into your inner Indiana Jones, a trip to Copan, Honduras is right up your alley. Located in western Honduras, the cobblestone lined streets and white adobe buildings topped with red roofs provide the beautiful backdrop to this once powerful city.

Occupied by the Maya for 2,000 years, Copan was the ruling city in the southern Mayan kingdom. Settled nicely in a fertile river valley among rolling hills, this city is absolutely fascinating and the perfect place to explore history.



Neighborhoods & Around

The town that encompasses the ruins is located to the west of the park area, and is home to many restaurants, hotels, and other tourist amenities. Almost everything is a short walk from the center of town.

Related:

Looking for a party hostel in Costa Rica or Cancun? Looking for a budget hostel in Mexico or Costa Rica?

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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