In many ways, Honduras is a country of extremes. The topography as well as the density and distribution of the population are inseparable from its history and character. This land of contrasts, with its 44,835 square miles, forms the second largest republic in Central America. Its triangular shape creates a northern border on the Caribbean Sea that extends about 386 miles. This forms a strategic extension of coastline and beaches. Moving inland, green valleys are drained by the numerous rivers born in the surrounding mountains which cover about 80 percent of the national territory. Such a basic topographical pattern of rugged interior and lowlands relatively close to the coast creates a dichotomy that is reflected in Honduras' social and economic development, particularly between the northern coast and the interior land. Pristine islands and sandy beaches off the Caribbean Sea move into the forested peaks of the Central American Andean highlands, breaking the territory into two fundamental geographic groups: east and west. Meanwhile, the Pacific Ocean and its beautiful beaches lie beyond the mountains.

The Ruins of Copán represent the highest artistic and cultural achievement of the ancient Maya Civilization, the extensive grounds of the Archaeological park embrace the remains of numerous majestic temples and pyramids embellished with thousands of fragments of architectural sculpture. Copan has been called by the archaeologist "The Alexandria of the new world" due to the numerous findings that indicate with no doubt that it was the scientific and artistic Capital of the Maya. UNESCO proclaimed Copán as a World Heritage Site in 1980, today, Copan has become a must see destination for those interested in finding out more about the most advanced culture that inhabited the Americas during precolumbian times.

Rivers with indigenous names do not let us forget the incredibly beautiful regions filled with unique flora and fauna, the Rivers Chamelecon, Ulua, Aguan, Patuca, Choluteca, Goascoran, Nacoome and Negro. Also, the nation has many lakes and lagoons; the largest is Lake Yojoa, also known as Taulabe, situated about 2,095 feet above sea level. In order to conserve these natural treasures and the country's unique flora and fauna, the Honduran government has established reserves and national parks. In the very heart of the country is the capital city of Tegucigalpa. San Pedro Sula, an industrial center and one of the fastest-growing cities in Latin America, is situated in the north. As the country's second city, it is a departure point for many travelers who are interested in nearby attractions like the Caribbean beaches and the idyllic Bay Islands. But the most precious jewels are found in the surrounding archipelagos, like those in the Caribbean Sea. There are several, but the Bay Islands—encompassing the islands of Roatan, Utila and Guanaja—are world-renowned for their coral reefs.