Celaque National Park: Explore Honduras’ Natural Wonder
Discovering Celaque National Park
Celaque National Park, officially known as Parque Nacional Montaña de Celaque, offers a unique blend of lush cloud forests, rugged mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Established in 1987, it became part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Cacique Lempira, Señor de las Montañas, in 2015. The park spans over 260 square kilometers and is home to Cerro Las Minas, the highest peak in Honduras, reaching 2,870 meters (9,416 feet).
The park’s biodiversity is remarkable, with over 300 bird species, including Red-lored Parrots and White-collared Manakins. It also hosts a variety of mammals like pumas and ocelots, and is the only place where you can find the endangered Bolitoglossa celaque salamander.
When to Visit
The ideal time to explore Celaque National Park is during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers more manageable weather conditions and easier access to trails. The wet season brings heavy rainfall, making trails muddy and challenging.
Getting There
To reach Celaque National Park, fly into Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport in San Pedro Sula. From there, travel to the town of Gracias, which serves as the park’s gateway. While there are no direct buses to the park, you can take a Transportes Congolón bus from Tegucigalpa to Santa Rosa de Copán, then a combi or taxi to Gracias. From Gracias, a tuk-tuk (moto-taxi) can take you to the park’s visitor center, a 9 km journey costing about 100 Lempira.
Exploring the Park
Start your visit at the park’s visitor center, where you can gather information and obtain necessary permits. Hiring a local guide is recommended for insights into the park’s diverse ecosystems. Celaque offers well-marked trails for all skill levels. The Sendero Los Helechos trail leads through dense cloud forests to the El Bejuco Waterfall, while the challenging Sendero El Bosque Nublado takes you to the summit of Cerro Las Minas, offering panoramic views.
For those interested in more than hiking, the park also features several caves, such as Cueva de los Murciélagos, known for its bat population. Thermal springs like El Estado provide a relaxing experience, and whitewater rafting is available on some of the park’s rivers.
Accommodations and Essentials
Gracias offers a range of accommodations, from guesthouses to hotels, catering to various budgets. Within the park, transportation is primarily on foot, so comfortable hiking shoes and plenty of water and snacks are essential. Remember, there are no stores or restaurants in the park, so plan accordingly and adhere to the “leave no trace” principle.
- Celaque National Park is a natural wonder in Honduras, offering diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity.
- The park is home to Cerro Las Minas, the highest peak in Honduras, and features stunning cloud forests and waterfalls.
- With over 300 bird species and numerous mammals, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
- Visit during the dry season, from November to April, for the best experience.
- Access the park via San Pedro Sula and Gracias, using local transportation options.
- Explore various trails and activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and caving.
- Stay in Gracias for accommodation, and prepare for a self-sufficient visit to the park.
