La Ceiba is a port city on the northern coast of Honduras, Central America alongside the Caribbean Sea. With a population of about 250,000, it is the third largest city in the country and the capital of the Honduran department of Atlántida. The city is named for the giant ceiba trees that were common to the area. Due to disorganized urban growth few of these trees remain today. Its climate is tropical, with a latitude of 15° 46.0 and a longitude of 086° 50.0. Locally, the city is referred to as the Darling of Honduras and has been officially proclaimed the "Eco-Tourism Capital of Honduras" as well as the "Entertainment Capital of Honduras".

La Ceiba's economy is made up of mostly commerce and agriculture but there is also a significant illegal commerce in cocaine as it is a transit point between Colombia and the United States. Pineapple is the city's major export. Its largest producer is the Standard Fruit Company (A subsidiary of the Dole Food Company). Standard Fruit, which operates all over northern Honduras, is based out of La Ceiba. Fishing activities are also important and represent a significant activity in the area.

Known as "La Novia de Honduras", or Honduras' girlfriend, La Ceiba's blend of Ladino, Caribbean, and Garifuna culture identify it as a party town. There is a saying that goes that "While Tegucigalpa thinks, San Pedro Sula works, La Ceiba parties". Every year, on the third Saturday of May, the city holds its famous "Gran" carnaval. During this time, the city is host to over 200,000 people from all over the world.

La Ceiba has many parks and natural reserves. Its most recognized is the Pico Bonito (Pretty Peak) National Park. This park's most recognized feature is its 2435 metre mountain peak of the same name, and the Pico Bonito mountain range provides a back drop to the city. The Rio Cangrejal, well known for its class III-IV river rafting, borders the eastern edge of the city and the Cuero and Salado Wildlife Refuge, is located a few miles to the west. The airport is also to the west of town.

Locator maps

• – La Ceiba

External links

• Interactive Map La Ceiba, Atlantida
• La Ceiba, Honduras, Travel Ideas
• La Ceiba, Honduras, Local Information, Maps and Photos
• 1920 Hotel Los Angeles burns down

Cities in Honduras

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