• In order to contribute to the conservation of Copan, the visitor must exercise caution in his activities during his stay. It is very important to consider that his actions may enter into conflict with those other visitors, with the administration policies of the Park, or with the interests of future generations. In order to facilitate visitations, signs containing warnings and suggestions to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay have been placed throughout the Park, establishing certain “use zones” within the Monument. The visitor will become aware that Monument personnel stationed in the Park are prepared to be of assistance and to be vigilant of the security of the site.
  • The following suggestions can serve as a guide for the visitor. Their proper observation will assure a safe and fruitful visit, and protect the resources of the Park.
  1. Pay attention to the open air exhibits, and to the security and regulation signs.
  2. Do not run up the steps to the temples and palaces; besides being a personal hazard, it can be a risk to the other visitors as well.
  3. Familiarize yourself with all of the services offered in the Park and in town, in order to properly orient yourself and be able to program your activities adequately with the time you have available.
  4. Do not bring radios and tape players into the ruins; these are permitted only in the picnic and cafeteria areas. Even there, please keep the volume as low as possible
  5. Do not hesitate to ask Park personnel any questions you might have, or to ask for help in case of an accident or any other problem.
  6. Avoid the temptation to touch or lean on the sculptures, the stelae, the altars or the buildings. The stones are fragile and susceptible to damage from the salts and bacteria carried on the skin and particularly in sweat.
  7. We encourage the contemplation of the natural and cultural resources of Copan for spiritual renewal and general wellbeing.
  8. Avoid activities that can ruin other peoples visit and disturb the peaceful atmosphere of Copan (dancing, shouting, throwing objects, etc)
  9. The collection of plants, stones, or archaeological remains or any sort is absolutely prohibited and severely punished by law.
  10. Should you decide to visit the Nature Trail, be careful not to touch or brush against the leaves of the Chichicaste plant, which can cause severe rash.
  11. The Archaeological Park, in addition to being a cultural center, is also considered a biological reserve as it is surrounded by agricultural fields and pasture lands. As wildlife is scarce, anyone who threatens the life of the animals will be subject to serious sanctions.
  12. Campfires are not allowed anywhere.
  13. Visitors are requested to respect the norms of conduct implicit in the protective measures adopted by the Administration.
  • In order to comply with these suggestions, it is helpful to understand the zoning of the monument. Primary activities of the visitor include simple observation and passive learning. Recreation per se is a secondary interest and should only take place in defined use zones. It is understood that visitors come to the Park with the desire to learn more about the past, as well as to enjoy some time out in the open. Unfortunately there are certain activities which enter into conflict with these purposes. The zoning is a result of a very detailed inventory of the most fragile areas of the Monument. Less fragile areas can stand greater number of people and diverse activities, both recreational and educational. These areas include the Visitor Center, the Sculpture Museum, the Handicraft Shop, the Cafeteria, the parking area and the Pedestrian Trail. These have all been designated “Intensive Use Zones”.

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