What it is
The Cayos Cochinos (Hog Islands) are a protected marine reserve about 30 km off the coast of La Ceiba. The archipelago has two main islands (Cayo Mayor and Cayo Menor) plus 13 small sand cays. The whole area is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, so the snorkeling is exceptional and access is regulated.
How to get there
Day trips leave from Sambo Creek, a Garífuna village about 25 minutes east of La Ceiba. Boats depart around 8:30–9:00 AM and return by 4:00 PM. The crossing takes 45–60 minutes by panga (small open boat). Several tour operators in Sambo Creek and La Ceiba sell the trip — book the day before in high season.
What's typically included
Standard day-trip package runs USD $50–75 per person and includes:
- Round-trip boat transport from Sambo Creek
- Snorkel gear and 2–3 snorkel stops on the reef
- Visit to Chachahuate, a tiny Garífuna village on a sand cay
- Fresh-grilled fish lunch on Chachahuate (usually with rice, beans, plantain)
- Marine reserve fee (around USD $10, sometimes separate)
Reserve rules
Cayos Cochinos is a strict no-take marine reserve managed by HCRF. No fishing, no shell or coral collection, no touching marine life. Sunscreen should be reef-safe (mineral). Stay with your guide on snorkel stops.