The beautiful Mayan ruins at Copán are justly renowned for their intricately carved stelae, sculptures and the huge ball court, while underground tunnels offer the chance to see the facades of buried temples and cosmological stucco carvings. The site flourished from 5th century to 9th century AD and the reason for the decline of the city is unknown, but widely believed to be due to over-population and deforestation.
Combine with a visit to the atmospheric Hacienda San Lucas, set in the hills above Copán, for lunch and relaxation. Then take a walk to visit the tiny but interesting historic fertility site of Los Sapos.