Tucked between Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and the Caribbean, you’ll find Honduras: a country of pristine coastline, vast forests, and Mayan ruins. Head to Copan to see some of the best-preserved ruins in the country or wander the museums in Honduras’ capital, Tegucigalpa, to learn a little about Honduran history from Mayan civilization to modern times.

You’ll need a working knowledge of basic Spanish to get along comfortably in Honduras. English is rarely spoken. And sometimes your Spanish will fail you as there are many native languages spoken, especially in rural areas. So brush up on your miming skills before you go, too. Your efforts will be rewarded as Honduras is a photogenic developing country ripe for exploration and growth.

Learn to SCUBA dive or break out your previously acquired diving skills on the Caribbean coast. Dive near the Bay Islands to tour a portion of the world’s second largest coral reef, which is a colorful, diverse expanse of corals deep under the crystal blue surface.

For a real adventure in the water, try white water rafting on the Rio Canrejal. The river offers rocky cliffs, technical challenges, and speedy white water that will surely get the adrenaline pumping in even the most experienced rafters. Hire a guide, there are several but no large companies, and steel yourself for a challenge. In return, you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful scenery in Honduras. And since rafting has been slow to gain popularity in Honduras, you’ll hardly see another person other than those in your raft.

Or perhaps a zipline tour is more your style? Strap into a harness and whiz through the forest canopy on a wire. You’ll see more of the wildlife and beauty of the forest canopy while you wait your turn, but when you’re on the zipline the adrenaline rush is a greater high than catching a glimpse of any bird you might soar past.

The rainforests of the Mosquito Coast are a biodiversity hotspot. Actually, the whole country is a biodiversity hotspot home to over one hundred species of mammal (mainly bats), two hundred and fifty reptile species, and over six hundred types of orchid. Part of the Mosquito Coast is a UNESCO heritage site because of the many species you can find here that have become extinct or endangered elsewhere.

Check out the Cuero y Salado Wildlife Refuge to see some manatees up close. Marvel at the picturesque blue lagoon, the mangroves, and the pineapple fields while you’re heading out to spot them. Other species in the refuge include boa constrictors, mangrove cuckoo birds, and white-faced capuchin monkeys.

All images are used via Creative Commons Attribution rights. View the original images on Flickr at: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4