About Cayos Cochinos

Cayos Cochinos, in Spanish, 'The Hog Islands', are two small islands, Cayo Menor and Cayo Grande, and 13 tiny coral cays, 30 kilometers northeast of La Ceiba.

Home to just over one hundred people with some parts completed uninhabited, these secluded isles are perfect if you're looking to escape the crowds.

Known for having the most pristine waters in Honduras, these islands and their protected waters are overflowing with unspoiled natural beauty and fantastic snorkeling.

Getting There + Getting Around

Take a small motorized boat from the Garifuna village of Sambo Creek for about 20 minutes before reaching Cayos Cochinos. Once you arrive on Cayo Menor you can explore on foot, walk along the bay before hopping back on the boat to the Cayo Grande to snorkel at the second largest barrier reef in the world.

The Garifuna

The local people, known as 'Garifunas' (descendants of West African, Central African, Island Carib, and Arawak people) live in fishing villages, in 9 private homes on Cayo Grande, and 6 homes on the 13 smaller keys.

When you stop off at the tiny Chachahuate island, you'll notice it's packed with quaint little open-air restaurants serving traditional Garifuna meals right on the beach.

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Watch the villagers prepare their boats, swing lazily in hammocks and prepare food in a traditional cooking method with no electricity, in a true island atmosphere, with an unbelievable view.

Top things to do

+ Snorkel at the barrier reef at Cayo Grande

+ Go on a hike in search of the native Pink Boa

+ Have lunch at Chachahuate

+ Simply relax and admire the flawless beaches

+ Socialize with the locals at Cayos Menor

Where to stay

These tiny islands have just one hotel option when it comes to staying over night. The Turtle Bay Resort on the untouched tropical island of Isla Major promises 'solitude in euphoria' at its exclusive 5-room resort overlooking the Caribbean ocean.

A recommended option is The Lodge at Pico Bonito nearby in La Ceiba. The resort also offers day trips out to Cayos Cochinos including lunch and snorkel gear, with a tour guide with you for the whole experience.