Most visitors know La Ceiba as the port for the Bay Islands. Locals know it as the adventure capital of Honduras. Behind the city, the mountains of Pico Bonito National Park rise straight out of the coastal plain, and the Cangrejal River tumbles down between them over boulders and rapids.
Morning: hiking in Pico Bonito
The Cangrejal valley is the easiest way into the national park. Trails lead through humid rainforest to viewpoints, waterfalls and swimming holes, and the valley’s hanging bridges are a highlight on their own. Keep an eye out for toucans, hummingbirds and butterflies.
Lunch in the mountains
Lunch is a traditional meal in the valley: think rice, beans, plantains, fresh tortillas and grilled meat or fish. It is included on our tour, and it is the right fuel for the afternoon.
Afternoon: whitewater rafting on the Cangrejal
The Cangrejal is one of the best-known rafting rivers in Central America. Rapids range from playful to demanding depending on the section and the water level, and the guides choose the run to suit the group and the season. You get a helmet, a life jacket and a full safety briefing before you start, and no previous experience is needed for the standard run.
What to bring
- Quick-dry clothes and a swimsuit.
- Sandals or water shoes that strap on firmly.
- A dry change of clothes for the ride back.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
If you have health concerns or are travelling with young children, tell us when you book and we will advise you on the best option.
Where it fits on the tour
Day 7 of our Discover Honduras circuit starts with the morning ferry back from Roatán, arriving in La Ceiba at 8:30 AM. From the pier we go straight to the Cangrejal valley for the hike, lunch and rafting, and you spend the night in La Ceiba before the Cayos Cochinos trip on Day 8.