Reef to Rainforest

Day 1 : La Ceiba – Pico Bonito

Nestled at the foot of the Pico Bonito National Park, The Lodge at Pico Bonito seamlessly combines nature and luxurious comfort. The luxury eco-lodge located on the Caribbean coast of Honduras near La Ceiba is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

The Lodge offers the adventure of the outdoors, the beauty of the rainforest, and the personal service and luxury of a boutique hotel.

The lodge is about 30 minutes from La Cieba airport, and is nestled within the magnificent rainforest of the Pico Bonito National Park.

The backcountry road leading to The Lodge at Pico Bonito passes through the lush greenery of coffee and cacao plantations before arriving at the handsome wood and stone main lodge set against the backdrop of the towering peaks of the Nombre de Dios Mountain Range.

The Lodge at Pico Bonito has been designed to offer guests a wide range of activities and experiences. A short walk takes you to their Tropical Butterfly Farm, you can visit nearby tropical farms on mountain bikes, or you can spend a couple of hours just wandering around the jungle property.

The Lodge at Pico Bonito’s activities desk will arrange tours to numerous destinations including horseback riding, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, touring the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán, and snorkeling amidst the coral reefs of the Bay Islands. Other amenities include swimming pool, spa, butterfly farm.

Cabins are approximately 400 square feet with private bathroom with shower, louvered and screened windows, two ceiling fans, and private veranda with hammock. Cabins also have a CD player, alarm clock and coffee maker with Honduran organic coffee. Outlets are 110v. Cots, sofas or extra mattresses are not available.

Itzama is The Lodge’s full service, newly renovated restaurant and bar where guests dine on Mesoamerican cuisine. Using fresh seafood and locally grown herbs and vegetables, the chef recreates local Honduran specialties including coconut milk curry seafood soup and medallions of beef dusted with coffee and cacao.

The following guided excursions can be also arranged at the lodge (not included in room rate):

Full-day Pico Bonito National Park
Undoubtedly one of the best national parks in Honduras, Pico Bonito covers a land extension with elevations ranging from sea level to 7,800 feet, housing the biggest height change in the country. Pico Bonito is a fundamental part of La Ceiba, making this city the capital of ecotourism in Honduras. Although access to the park is limited, it is possible to visit some of its low portions.

The tour begins by crossing pineapple plantations before arriving to the “finca”, from where you will start hiking for 20-30 minutes along a very beautiful waterfall. One hour later you will reach a bigger one. The higher you get, spectacular views of the Caribbean coast and even of the Bay Islands will reward your efforts. Lunch is included.

Full-day Cuero y Salado Wildlife Refuge
Pick from your hotel you will be driven 18 miles west of La Ceiba to Cuero y Salado Refuge. This wildlife refuge has been specifically dedicated to the preservation of the habitat for endangered manatee. The location between the Cuero and Salado Rivers makes this a safe haven for a number of full time resident manatee. Access to the reserve is unique in itself.

A hand operated flatcar railroad left behind from the old Standard Fruit Co. Once in the reserve boundaries you will board a small boat for viewing the abundant wildlife. The park protects about 35 different species of animals, including manatee, jaguar, jabiru, whitefaced monkeys, and other monkey species, as well as 198 species of birds. Many types of fish and alligators can also be observed.

Cayos Cochinos Marine Reserve
The Hog Keys otherwise known as Cayos Cochinos are a unique set of islands located only a few miles from the coast. These keys have been declared a national park by the Honduras Government, and recognized by UNESCO. The reserve is managed by the Smithsonian Institute of Washington DC and has limited access.

The vast area covers miles of the second largest reef in the world, and home to abundant marine life. This morning you will be taken to the pier in La Ceiba where you’ll board and begin your journey to the islands. Hiking on one of the islands trails you will have a chance to view the vegetation and the many beaches. Time for snorkeling will be made, after which you will be taken back to your hotel.

Rio Cangrejal Whitewater Rafting
Rio Cangrejal is a world class whitewater destination. One of Central America’s most accessible and beautiful rivers, it offers something for everyone from the first time rafter to experienced kayak enthusiasts. Flowing from deep within the rainforest of the Pico Bonito National Park down to the Caribbean Ocean, the 20-mile river has rapids ranging in difficulty from class II to class IV.

Generally, the river runs highest from September to February, but is doable almost all year. Depending on the season, the Lodge’s adventure may have breaks in the whitewater action for a brief excursion into the rainforest or the opportunity to swim and play on the large rocks by the river’s edge. Kayaks can be arranged for experienced paddlers. Breakfast included daily.

Days 2 – 4 : Pico Bonito

Days to explore Pico Bonito National Park on excursions with additional time at leisure.

Day 5 : Pico Bonito – La Ceiba – Roatan

Transfer to the La Ceiba Airport for your flight to Roatan. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to Barefoot Cay.

Barefoot Cay Resort creates a feeling of calm and closeness with nature. The small boutique resort offers just 9 charming, luxury accommodations in a private setting with excellent service and modern amenities.

Enjoy a romantic getaway or a private retreat. Totally secure and comfortable, with a clean, airy design that caters to those who appreciate a good book and hours of uninterrupted quiet. Or enjoy the endless activities: beachcombing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, kayaking, and more. Barefoot Cay is truly an oasis for those who love the tropics.

Each bungalow features these luxury amenities: a king-size Heavenly Bed (can be configured as two extra-long twin beds), 32″ flat screen TV/DVD, high-speed internet, en suite bathroom with Balinese shower and L’Occitane bath products, programmable safe, kitchen with full size refrigerator, stove, microwave, toaster oven, blender, and coffee maker with bean grinder, covered deck with seating, stepping down to the sand and the Caribbean Sea, private beach area with hammock and lounge chairs.

The tropical accommodations are designed to make use of the breezes, views, and proximity to the sea. Stay a few days, or a few weeks, and find comfort in the unique architectural design.

Fall asleep to the distant waves breaking on the reef, then later glimpse the orange morning sun peeking through the high open ceiling. Curl up with a good book on the window seat or swing in a hammock shaded by palm trees.

The bungalows have ceiling fans and are also air conditioned for those days when the trade winds are lazy. The purified water is potable from the tap. Each bedroom has a 32″ flat-screen TV with DVD and free DirecTV. The ultra-comfortable Heavenly beds have high-quality linens and goose down pillows, with the option to have synthetic pillows if you prefer.

A rollaway twin-size bed or queen-size air mattress is available for an extra guest. Satellite Internet is available on the entire cay, in addition to a hard-wire connection at the desk in every bedroom.

The spacious Balinese showers provide a unique experience with semi-open roofs. All our accommodations are non-smoking. Daily housekeeping is included.  Complimentary use of kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and snorkeling equipment is also included. Daily breakfast included.

Day 6, 7 : Barefoot Cay

Days at leisure. Beach toys and yoga classes are included. The following activities are optional: sport fishing, boat tours for dolphin and turtle watching.

Day 8 : Departure

At the appropriate time you will transfer back to the airport in Roatan.