Cayos Cochinos - Tourism

Tourism

The Cayos Cochinos archipelago is a unique retreat for travelers looking to escape urban landscapes and crowded tourism centers. The islands have no roads, thus no cars or bikes.

There is a hiking trail that connects residences and beaches on Cayo Grande. There is a lighthouse on the highest point of the island which can be hiked to and offers a panoramic view of all Cayos Cochinos. The only inhabitants of the islands are Garifuna fishing villages (Chachauate and East End), 9 private homes on Cayo Grande, and 6 homes on the 13 smaller keys. The islands are accessible by boat from La Ceiba or by sailboat charter departing from Utila or Roatan.

The actions taken in preserving the underwater environment has left the Cayos Cochinos waters as the healthiest and most pristine marine life in the Bay Islands. The Honduras Coral Reef Fund is responsible for upholding the environmental restrictions and protecting the marine park, and collect a park entrance fee from all those who enter ($5/day, $10/week, $20/month).

Since the 1970s only one tourist destination has been available in Cayos Cochinos, Plantation Beach Resort, offering lodging on Cayo Grande. Plantation Beach Resort is a PADI resort catering to divers, snorkelers, and others wishing to enjoy this island paradise. Both Garifuna villages offer cheap lodging for backpackers who wish to stay in either East End or Chachahuate in hammocks or hostel-like huts.