Cerro Las MinasCerro Las Minas at a Glance
About Cerro Las Minas
Cerro Las Minas, also known as Pico Celaque, is the highest peak in Honduras, rising to approximately 2,870 metres. The mountain forms the core of Celaque National Park and is the country’s principal highland summit.
Hikers come for the summit and the cloud forest environment, which offers montane trails, moss‑covered trees and opportunities for birdwatching. Trails lead through the park to viewpoints and to the summit ridge; the peak provides panoramic views on clear days. The mountain’s elevation and habitat make it a key destination for nature‑focused visits rather than casual seaside tourism.
The area containing Cerro Las Minas was designated for protection as part of national conservation efforts to preserve the distinct montane ecosystems of western Honduras. The mountain has long been recognized locally as the country’s highest point.
Located in Lempira Department in western Honduras, the peak lies within Celaque National Park near the town of Gracias and dominates the surrounding highland landscape.
- Elevation: At 2,870 metres above sea level it is the highest point in Honduras and a focal point for hikers visiting the national park.
- Environment: The area is dominated by cloud forest with a range of endemic plants and bird species, and weather can change quickly at altitude.
What to See#
- Pico Celaque (Cerro Las Minas): The summit known as Pico Celaque sits at the highest point of the park and is the island of higher ridgelines culminating at the 2,870 metre summit.
Best Time to Visit Cerro Las Minas
Best visited in the dry season for trail conditions and visibility, but the mountain's cloud forest is atmospheric year-round.
Weather & Climate near Cerro Las Minas
Cerro Las Minas's climate is classified as Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) - Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 9°C to 24°C. Abundant rainfall (1550 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 9° - 19° | 14° | 39 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 10° - 20° | 15° | 28 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 11° - 23° | 17° | 18 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 13° - 24° | 18° | 34 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 13° - 23° | 18° | 190 mm | - | - | 2.5 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 13° - 22° | 18° | 263 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 13° - 21° | 17° | 206 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 13° - 21° | 17° | 236 mm | - | - | 2.4 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 13° - 21° | 17° | 273 mm | - | - | 2.1 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 12° - 20° | 16° | 140 mm | - | - | 2.5 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 11° - 19° | 15° | 58 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 9° - 18° | 14° | 65 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Cerro Las Minas
The usual gateway is the colonial town of Gracias (Lempira), about 3-4 hours by road from San Pedro Sula or Tegucigalpa (private shuttle or bus). From Gracias, local 4x4 taxis and colectivos run to trailheads within 20-60 minutes; most treks to the summit begin near the village of San Juan or other park access points. Expect unpaved mountain roads and allow extra time for slow sections.
Tips for Visiting Cerro Las Minas
- Base hikes usually start from the town of Gracias; arrange transport the evening before to reach trailheads early.
- Acclimatize gradually - even though elevations are modest for experienced mountaineers, mornings are cold and afternoons can be sweaty in the cloud forest.
- Hire a local guide from Gracias: they know the narrow footpaths, cattle tracks and which streams are safe to cross.
- Bring insect repellent and a lightweight rain jacket; mist and showers are frequent even in the 'dry' season.