3-Day Sightseeing & Outdoor Activities in Untouched Cayos Cochinos

Cayos Cochinos, Honduras

3 days

Outdoor activities

Sightseeing

Off the beaten path

About Cayos Cochinos, Honduras

Explore the untouched beauty of Cayos Cochinos, Honduras, a hidden gem of the Caribbean. This tropical paradise, also known as the Hog Islands, is a Marine Biological Reserve, offering pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush forests. Experience the rich Garifuna culture in the local villages, indulge in fresh seafood delicacies, or simply relax on the tranquil beaches. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will be captivated by the diverse marine life, including the endangered Hawksbill Turtle. With eco-lodges and private bungalows, accommodation is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Cayos Cochinos is a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and an authentic island experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Boat Ride and Marine Biological Reserve Visit

Morning

Start your day with a boat ride to Cayos Cochinos. Enjoy the scenic views of the Caribbean Sea and the lush green islands. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. Try some local delicacies like baleadas or fried fish.

Afternoon

Take a guided tour of the Marine Biological Reserve. Learn about the local marine life and the conservation efforts in the area.

Dinner

Have a beachside dinner. Enjoy the fresh seafood and the beautiful sunset.

Evening

Relax under the stars. Listen to the waves and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Day 2

Lighthouse Hike and Garifuna Cultural Experience

Morning

Start your day with a hike to the lighthouse. Enjoy the panoramic views of the islands and the sea.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch at the top of the hill. Enjoy the views and the cool breeze.

Afternoon

Visit the Garifuna community on Chachahuate Cay. Learn about their culture and traditions.

Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Garifuna dinner. Try dishes like tapou, a seafood soup, and darasa, a green banana tamale.

Evening

Join the locals for some traditional Garifuna music and dance. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3

Snorkeling and Beach Relaxation

Morning

Spend your morning snorkeling. Explore the coral reefs and the colorful marine life.

Lunch

Have a beachside lunch. Enjoy the fresh seafood and the tropical fruits.

Afternoon

Relax on the beach. Swim, sunbathe, or read a book under a palm tree.

Dinner

Have your last dinner on the island. Enjoy the sunset and the fresh seafood.

Evening

Take a night walk on the beach. Listen to the waves and watch the stars.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

1
Cayos Cochinos

A group of two small islands and 13 more tiny coral cays, known for its rich marine life and pristine beaches.

Attractions

Beaches

Landmarks

2
Marine Biological Reserve

A protected area that houses a rich variety of marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and numerous species of fish.

Attractions

Parks

3
Chachahuate Cay

The most populated cay in Cayos Cochinos, known for its beautiful beach and clear waters.

Attractions

Beaches

4
Cayos Cochinos Coral Reefs

One of the healthiest and most beautiful coral reef systems in the Caribbean.

Attractions

Landmarks

5
Cayos Cochinos Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse providing a panoramic view of the surrounding islands and the Caribbean Sea.

Attractions

Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Baleadas

A traditional Honduran dish, Baleadas are thick flour tortillas filled with refried beans, cheese, and cream. They are a popular breakfast food in Cayos Cochinos.

Pupusas

Originating from El Salvador but popular in Honduras, Pupusas are corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or meat. They are often served with a spicy cabbage slaw called curtido.

Pastelitos de Carne

These are small, fried meat pies that are a popular snack in Cayos Cochinos. They are typically filled with beef or chicken and served with a side of pickled onions.

Sopa de Caracol

A traditional Honduran soup made with conch, vegetables, coconut milk, and spices. It's a must-try dish when visiting Cayos Cochinos.

Tamales

Tamales are a traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (a dough made from corn) that's filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, or other ingredients, wrapped in a corn husk, and steamed.

Plato Típico

A typical Honduran meal that usually includes grilled meat, fried plantains, beans, cheese, and tortillas. It's a staple dish in Cayos Cochinos.

Chicharrones

Chicharrones are fried pork rinds. They are a popular snack in Cayos Cochinos and are often served with lime and hot sauce.

Chilate con Nuegados

A traditional Honduran dessert, Chilate con Nuegados are balls of yucca dough that are fried and then soaked in a sweet syrup. They are served with a hot drink called Chilate.

Anafres

A traditional Honduran appetizer, Anafres is a hot dip made with refried beans and cheese, served in a clay pot with tortilla chips.

Salva Vida

Salva Vida is a popular Honduran beer. It's a light, crisp lager that's perfect for enjoying on the beaches of Cayos Cochinos.

Guifiti

A traditional Garifuna drink made from rum infused with various herbs and roots. It's often considered a medicinal drink in Cayos Cochinos.

Horchata

A traditional Latin American drink made from rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. In Honduras, it's often made with jicaro seeds instead of rice.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cayos Cochinos, Honduras is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During these months, you can expect less rainfall and more sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like snorkeling, hiking, and exploring the beautiful coral reefs. The temperatures during this period are also quite comfortable, usually ranging between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). However, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip as weather can sometimes be unpredictable.

How to get around

Boat

The primary method of transportation to and around Cayos Cochinos is by boat. There are no roads on the islands, so boat travel is essential for getting from one place to another. Boats can be hired from the mainland or from local operators on the islands.

Foot

Once on the islands, the main mode of transportation is by foot. There are several trails that lead to various points of interest, including beaches, viewpoints, and the small villages that are scattered across the islands.

Water Taxi

Water taxis are another common method of transportation around Cayos Cochinos. These small boats operate on a regular schedule and can take you to different parts of the islands.

Private Charter Boat

For a more personalized experience, you can hire a private charter boat. This allows you to explore the islands at your own pace and visit less crowded areas.

Kayak

Kayaking is a popular activity in Cayos Cochinos and can also be used as a means of transportation. It's a great way to explore the coastline and visit secluded beaches.

Snorkeling and Diving

While not a traditional method of transportation, snorkeling and diving are popular ways to explore the underwater world of Cayos Cochinos. Equipment can be rented from local operators.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services are not available in Cayos Cochinos due to the lack of roads and the small size of the islands.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyL HNL

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 195, 37, 8654; Fire: 198; Police: 119

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Cayos Cochinos, Honduras as a first time visitor

1

Cayos Cochinos is a group of two small islands (Cayo Menor and Cayo Grande) and 13 more tiny coral cays.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Honduran Lempira (HNL), but US dollars are widely accepted.

4

Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case of emergencies.

5

The islands are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest coral reef system in the world.

6

The islands are a Marine Protected Area, so fishing, touching the coral, or disturbing the wildlife is strictly prohibited.

7

Cayos Cochinos is a no-vehicle zone, so the main mode of transportation is by foot or boat.

8

The islands are home to the Garifuna people, an Afro-Caribbean group recognized by UNESCO for their cultural heritage.

9

The climate is tropical, with temperatures averaging 80°F (27°C) year-round.

10

The rainy season is from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall usually in September and October.

11

There are no ATMs on the islands, so it's advisable to withdraw enough cash before your visit.

12

Tap water is not safe to drink, so it's recommended to drink bottled water.

13

There are no hospitals on the islands. The nearest medical facilities are in La Ceiba on the mainland.

14

The islands are generally safe, but it's always wise to take standard travel precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended.

15

There's no public electricity grid on the islands. Most places use solar power and generators, so power can be limited.

16

Internet access is limited and often unreliable. It's a good place to disconnect and enjoy nature.

17

The islands are a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, thanks to the clear waters and abundant marine life.

18

The islands are home to the rare pink boa, a species of snake that's not found anywhere else in the world.

19

There are no supermarkets on the islands. Most food and supplies are brought in from the mainland.

20

The islands are a part of the Bay Islands Department of Honduras, which also includes Roatán and Utila.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Hola	O-la	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Adiós	A-dee-os	Leaving or saying goodbye to someone
Please	Por favor	Por fa-vor	When asking for something
Thank you	Gracias	Gra-see-as	After receiving something or someone's help
Yes	Sí	See	Agreeing with someone or something
No	No	No	Disagreeing with someone or something
Excuse me	Perdón	Per-don	Getting someone's attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Lo siento	Lo see-en-to	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	¿Hablas inglés?	Ab-las in-gles	When you need to communicate in English
I don't understand	No entiendo	No en-tee-en-do	When you don't understand what is being said
Where is...?	¿Dónde está...?	Don-de es-ta	When you are looking for a place or thing
Bathroom	Baño	Ban-yo	When you need to use the restroom
Help	Ayuda	A-yu-da	In case of emergency
Food	Comida	Co-mi-da	When you're looking for something to eat
Water	Agua	A-gua	When you're thirsty and need water
Good morning	Buenos días	Bwe-nos dee-as	Greeting someone in the morning
Good afternoon	Buenas tardes	Bwe-nas tar-des	Greeting someone in the afternoon
Good evening	Buenas noches	Bwe-nas no-ches	Greeting someone in the evening or night
How much does it cost?	¿Cuánto cuesta?	Kwan-to kwes-ta	When you want to know the price of something
I need a doctor	Necesito un médico	Ne-ce-si-to un me-di-co	In case of medical emergency

Packing List

Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Flip flops
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion or aloe vera
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Lip balm with SPF

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash, particularly in small denominations
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or tour confirmation
Emergency contact information

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Portable power bank
Waterproof phone case

Miscellaneous items
Snacks for travel
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel guide or map
Snorkeling gear
Beach bag
Beach towel
Binoculars for wildlife viewing

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Cayos Cochinos, Honduras, it's important to consider the tropical climate of the region. The weather is typically warm throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). However, the humidity can make it feel hotter, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. The region experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from February to September, is the best time to visit if you want to avoid heavy rainfall. However, even during the dry season, brief showers can occur, so it's always a good idea to carry a light rain jacket or umbrella. The rainy season, from October to January, can bring heavy rainfall and occasional storms. If you're planning to visit during this time, be prepared for potential changes in your itinerary due to weather conditions. Waterproof gear and shoes are a must. Regardless of when you visit, it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The sun's rays can be quite strong, especially between 10 am and 2 pm. Always wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast during your trip. Weather conditions can change quickly in tropical regions, and being prepared will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip to Cayos Cochinos.

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	32° / 22°	January is the coolest month in Cayos Cochinos, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather.
February	32° / 22°	February continues the cool trend with temperatures similar to January. It's also the driest month, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
March	33° / 23°	March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 23°C to 33°C. The weather remains dry, offering excellent conditions for snorkeling and diving.
April	34° / 24°	April is the start of the warmer months in Cayos Cochinos, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C. It's a great time to enjoy the beautiful beaches.
May	35° / 25°	May is the start of the rainy season, but temperatures remain high, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Despite the rain, the island's beauty remains undiminished.
June	35° / 25°	June continues the rainy season, with temperatures similar to May. However, the rain brings a unique freshness to the island's flora and fauna.
July	35° / 25°	July is in the middle of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the tropical rainforest environment.
August	35° / 25°	August sees the continuation of the rainy season. Despite the rain, the temperatures remain warm, making it a unique time to experience the island's biodiversity.
September	35° / 25°	September is the peak of the rainy season, with temperatures similar to the previous months. It's an excellent time for indoor activities and exploring the local culture.
October	34° / 24°	October sees a decrease in temperature and the end of the rainy season. The weather becomes more comfortable, making it a great time to explore the island.
November	33° / 23°	November marks the start of the cooler months, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer milder weather.
December	32° / 22°	December is one of the coolest months, with temperatures similar to January. It's a perfect time to visit for a warm winter getaway.