The border between Guatemala and Honduras is a rugged, mountainous frontier that cuts through a region rich in Mayan history and coffee plantations. Your crossing here is often directly linked to visiting one of the most important and artistically refined archaeological sites in the Americas. While there are several crossing points, including Agua Caliente and the Caribbean coastal route at Corinto, the most popular by far for international travelers is at El Florido. The reason for its popularity is simple: it serves as the most direct route to the magnificent Copán Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just a short, 10-kilometer drive into Honduras from the border.
The crossing at El Florido is a prime example of how ancient history shapes modern travel; its entire purpose for many visitors is to connect them with the incredible stone stelae and hieroglyphic stairway of the ancient Maya. The road to the border on both sides is winding and travels through beautiful, mountainous terrain, so it’s wise to allow extra time for the journey. The border post itself is small and relatively low-key, reflecting the fact that it primarily serves the steady stream of tourists heading to and from the famous ruins.