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La Tigra National Park

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La Tigra National Park (Honduras)

Weather…

La Tigra National Park, established on January 1, 1980, is the first national park in Honduras and represents a vital cloud forest ecosystem near Tegucigalpa. Covering an area of approximately 238 square kilometers, the park ranges in elevation from 1800 to 2270 meters above sea level. It serves as a primary water source for the capital city and is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, including the resplendent quetzal and pumas. Historically, the area was a significant silver mining hub during the 19th and early 20th centuries, with ruins and old mine shafts still scattered throughout the landscape. The park features eight well-maintained hiking trails that wind through dense, moist vegetation rich in bromeliads and orchids. Today, La Tigra is a cornerstone of Honduran environmental conservation, offering a unique high-altitude climate that provides a stark contrast to the tropical lowlands. Its preservation is critical for the long-term ecological health of the Francisco Morazán department.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212324262523232323222121
Rain mm121112401611971061281901794838

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
La Tigra National Park is a protected area open for hiking. Visitors can explore the trails on their own or with a guide.
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Typical hours
The park is typically open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, exact hours may vary by season. Last entry is usually in the afternoon.
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Photography
Photography is allowed on all trails, the misty cloud forests provide atmospheric pictures. A tripod is recommended for long exposures.
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Time needed
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a hike on the main trail. For extended trips to the waterfalls, 4 to 5 hours may be needed.
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Combine with
The park is above Tegucigalpa and can be combined with a city visit. El Picacho is easy to reach on the way back.
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Getting there
The park is reachable by car on a well-maintained road from Tegucigalpa in about 30 minutes. Parking is available at the entrance.
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Insider tip
Wear multiple layers of clothing as the forest is cool and damp. Start early for the best chance of birdwatching.

History & landmarks

1980

Geography

Coordinates
14.21670, -87.10000

Facts

  • Established on January 1, 1980, as the first national park in Honduras.
  • Covers a total land area of approximately 238 square kilometers.
  • Elevation ranges from 1800 to 2270 meters above sea level.
  • Provides about 30% of the potable water for Tegucigalpa.
  • Home to the Rosario Mining Company's historical silver mine ruins.
  • Features eight distinct hiking trails, including the Sendero La Esperanza.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Santa LucíaSanta Lucía2 km · SExplore →
Talanga AgricultureTalanga Agriculture2 km · NEExplore →
Uyuca Biological ReserveUyuca Biological Reserve3 km · SExplore →
Santa Lucía ChurchSanta Lucía Church5 km · NExplore →
La Tigra National ParkLa Tigra National Park6 km · SExplore →
YoroYoro6 km · SEExplore →
Montaña de la FlorMontaña de la Flor6 km · NEExplore →
Ruins of El Rincón del BueyRuins of El Rincón del Buey7 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the main attraction of La Tigra?
The mystical cloud forest and the rich biodiversity near the capital city.
Is it cold there?
Due to the altitude, it is much cooler than in Tegucigalpa; jackets are recommended.
Are there marked hiking trails?
Yes, there are eight well-marked trails of varying difficulty levels.
Can you see Quetzals?
With luck, you can spot the rare Quetzal bird in the dense forest.
How far is it from Tegucigalpa?
It is about a one-hour drive (approx. 22 km) to the park entrances.
La Tigra National Park: where is it located?
La Tigra National Park is located in Honduras.
La Tigra National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
La Tigra National Park: why is it worth visiting?
La Tigra National Park, established on January 1, 1980, is the first national park in Honduras and represents a vital cloud forest ecosystem near Tegucigalpa.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Tegucigalpa — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Tegucigalpa
The capital and political center located in a mountain valley.
San Pedro Sula — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
San Pedro Sula
The second largest city and industrial heart of Honduras.
La Ceiba — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
La Ceiba
A coastal city known as the gateway to the Bay Islands.
El Progreso — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
El Progreso
Important commercial and agricultural city in the northwest.
Comayagua — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Comayagua
Former capital famous for its Spanish colonial architecture.

History & landmarks

Christ at El Picacho — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Christ at El Picacho
A monumental statue of Christ overlooking the capital city of Tegucigalpa.
🗺️
Cuero y Salado Refuge
A wildlife refuge especially famous for the protection of manatee populations.
Pico Bonito National Park — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Pico Bonito National Park
A rugged national park featuring jungles, rivers, and diverse wildlife.
Lancetilla Botanical Garden — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Lancetilla Botanical Garden
One of the world's largest tropical botanical gardens, located near Tela.
Jeannette Kawas National Park — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Jeannette Kawas National Park
A diverse park featuring mangroves, beaches, and coral reefs on the Caribbean coast.
Pulhapanzak Waterfall — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Pulhapanzak Waterfall
An impressive 43-meter waterfall near Lake Yojoa.

Nature

Laguna de los Micos — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Laguna de los Micos
A narrow lagoon on the Caribbean coast near Tela.
Lake Ticamaya — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Lake Ticamaya
A protected wetland area providing habitat for numerous migratory bird species.
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Lake Yojoa
Honduras's largest lake with rich birdlife.

More places

Uyuca Biological Reserve — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Uyuca Biological Reserve
A mountainous forest reserve south of the capital.
La Tigra National Park — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
La Tigra National Park
A cool cloud forest park near Tegucigalpa.
🗺️
El Picacho Park
A day-trip park above Tegucigalpa with a zoo and views.
Chiminike — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Chiminike
An interactive children's museum in Tegucigalpa.
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Cerro Juana Lainez Park
A popular city park with views over Tegucigalpa.
Tegucigalpa Central Park — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Tegucigalpa Central Park
The main square of Tegucigalpa's historic center.
Montana de Yoro National Park — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Montana de Yoro National Park
A highland park with forest and cool nights.
Utila — La Tigra National Park (Honduras)
Utila
Smaller island, famous for whale shark sightings and backpackers.