Talgua National Forest and Park / The cave of the glowing skulls

Honduras is a wonderful country with a lot of history. There are ruins, caves, monuments and parks to visit.

There’s a beautiful path through the woods and alongside a rocky river to some beautiful caves. In the mid 90’s pre Mayan ruins were discovered there and the human remains are thought to be the oldest in the Americas. They called it the cave of the glowing skulls, because when they discovered them the residue of water organisms created shiny substances which appear as if they were glowing. You won’t be able to see the skulls, since they are still studying the artifacts. They have a small museum where you can see replicas of the skulls and actual pottery used in the burial ceremonies. We were privileged to have one of the discoverers talk with us in the museum.

Once inside the cave, it’s very interesting to learn about the ancient traditions and beliefs as you walk thorough a long serpentine passage with a subterranean river and a waterfall. There are plenty of typical cave formations like stalactites, stalagmites and cave bacon. It is set in a beautiful river valley surrounded by picturesque, forested, clouded shrouded mountains.

You can get there by bus or taxi about 20 minute from Hotel Juan Carlos. The driver will know how to get there. Hike about ½ mile to a covered area where a guide is waiting to give you the tour. The admission is $5.00 plus 10 Lempiras for a guide.

The Cross is a beautiful monument in the mountains.  Only 567 steps to the top and you can see the entire city of Catacamas. It's all worth it.  The view is spectacular. A great way to start your morning.  It's very dark at night.  So, it is recommended to go only during the day. 

Within a mile from the hotel is the market place. There you will find all kinds of knick-knacks, clothes, souvenirs, and fresh produce. A great variety of hand made items to choose from, like throws, pottery, hammocks, machetes, baskets, and more. There is something for everyone. Although, a little hard to find are items with the name Catacamas or Honduras printed on it. Prices are very economical. Lempiras go a long way in the marketplace. In some cases you can even pay with dollars. Unless you are planning to buy a souvenir for everyone back home or do your Christmas shopping, you’ll do well with 1,000 Lempiras (approx. $60). I purchased a hammock, a leather stool, two ceramic ornaments for the wall, a throw, two kid’s size football jerseys and a basket (to carry all) for little less than 900 Lempiras.

At the airport, you will also find souvenir shops. These stores will accept US Dollars as payment and even though the items are more expensive than in the marketplace, the quality and novelty of the objects are superior.