Cayos Cochinos

Cayos Cochinos is an archipelago in the Bay Islands region of Honduras consisting of two main islands and thirteen smaller coral cays. The islands sit within the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef system and create diverse marine habitats for fish and coral.

The islands became a protected marine reserve in 1994 when Honduras established strict rules to safeguard ocean life. This protection was crucial to controlling fishing and preserving the coral ecosystems that surround the islands.

The Garifuna people living in Chachauate and East End villages continue fishing methods and celebrations that reflect their African and Caribbean heritage. You can see how daily life here revolves around the ocean and the customs passed down through families.

You need a boat from La Ceiba to reach the islands, with local operators offering day trips and simple accommodations. Plan for basic facilities and check weather conditions before traveling, as the dry season offers the most reliable access.

The waters surrounding these islands host an extraordinary variety of fish and serve as a research hub for coral conservation work. Scientists work here on projects to restore damaged reef areas and study marine recovery.