In the hills on the far side of the Río Copán, just opposite the ruins [1], is the small site of Los Sapos (The Frogs). Formerly, this rock outcrop carved in the form of a frog must have been quite impressive, but the years have worn down the sculpture considerably. Right near the frog carving, and even harder to make out, is what looks to be the figure of a large woman with her legs spread, as if giving birth. Because of this second carving, archaeologists believe the location was a birthing spot, where Mayan women would come to deliver children.
Although the carvings are not dramatic, the hillside setting above the Río Copán valley, across from the main ruins site, is lovely and makes a good two- to three-hour trip on foot or horseback.
Los Sapos is on the Hacienda San Lucas [2] property and the ranch owners have built a small network of trails for visitors to wander along and admire the views, thick vegetation, and noisy bird life. Entrance is U$2. At the ranch is a restaurant serving excellent traditional Honduran countryside food with products made by hand on the farm, like tasty fresh cheese, and a spectacular five-course dinner with revived Mayan recipes (reservations recommended). There are upscale guest rooms here too, if you’d like to stay for a night.
To get to Los Sapos, leave town heading south and follow the main road over the Río Copán bridge. On the far side, turn left and follow the dirt road along the river’s edge. A little farther on, the road forks—follow the right side uphill a couple hundred meters to Hacienda San Lucas [2].
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/honduras/western-honduras/copan/the-ruins-copan
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/honduras/western-honduras/copan-ruinas/accommodations/outside-town