Cayos Cochinos is a group of two small islands and about a dozen white-sand cays off the coast of La Ceiba. The whole archipelago is a protected marine monument: no roads and no big hotels, just coral reefs, turquoise water and a Garifuna fishing village.
What to expect
Boats leave from the Sambo Creek area, east of La Ceiba, and the crossing takes about an hour depending on the sea. The day includes snorkeling on the reefs, beach time and a stop at the cay of Chachahuate, where Garifuna families cook fresh fish with coconut rice. The islands are also home to the pink boa, a snake found nowhere else in the world.
Good to know
- Length: a full day.
- Entry fee: the protected area usually charges an entrance fee; bring cash.
- What to bring: reef-safe sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, hat and cash for lunch.
- Weather: trips depend on the sea. If it is too rough, the operator may move your date.
How to book
Book the tour with Shuttle Guacamayos, including transport from La Ceiba.
Keep exploring
Before or after the trip, visit the Garifuna community of Sambo Creek. You can also see all the things to do in La Ceiba or find hotels and restaurants in the business directory.
Photo: Dennis García, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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