safe to travel to honduras

Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Honduras - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to Honduras due to crime and kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• Gracias a Dios Department due to crime .

Country Summary : Violent crime, such as homicide, armed robbery, and kidnapping, is common. Violent gang activity, such as extortion, violent street crime, rape, and narcotics and human trafficking, is widespread. Local police and emergency services lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to serious crime.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Honduras.

If you decide to travel to Honduras:

• Avoid demonstrations.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Exercise caution using cell phones in public, including inside of cars while stopped in traffic.
• Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Honduras.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Gracias a Dios Department – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Gracias a Dios is an isolated area with high levels of criminal activity and drug trafficking. Infrastructure is weak, government services are limited, and police and military presence is scarce.

• The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Gracias a Dios as U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling to the area.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passport must have three months validity.

One page required for entry stamp.

No for stays of up to 90 days.

Required: Honduras currently requires travelers arriving from or traveling to Panama and every nation in South America to present proof of yellow fever vaccine. Effective March 22, 2023: Travelers are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or negative test results for a PCR, Antingen, or ELISA test prior to entry in to Honduras. Airlines may still require additional documentation prior to boarding. Suggested: measles, rubella, rabies, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid.

Travelers must declare any amount over $10,000.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Tegucigalpa Avenida La Paz Tegucigalpa M.D.C. Honduras Telephone:  +(504) 2236-9320 or +(504) 2238-5114 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(504) 2238-5114 or +(504) 2236-9320 Fax: +(504) 2238-4357 Business Hours: Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00p.m.  Friday, 7:30a.m. to 3:00 p.m

U.S. Consular Agent - San Pedro Sula Banco Atlántida Building 11th Floor, across the street from Central Park San Pedro Sula Honduras Telephone:  +(504) 2558-1580 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Tegucigalpa: +(504) 2238-5114 or +(504) 2236-9320, extension 4100 Business Hours: Mondays and Tuesdays 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Wednesdays and Thursdays 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed Fridays.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s website  www.state.gov  for information on U.S. - Honduras relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

To enter Honduras, you need:

• A U.S. passport with at least three months validity.
• Evidence of onward travel. For stays of up to 90 days, you do not need a visa for tourism.
• Please note, individuals who do not obtain the appropriate visa, or overstay their time in Honduras, may face significant exit fines.

Visit the  Embassy of Honduras  website or any of the  Honduran consulate  websites for the most current visa information.

Special Requirements for Minors :  Under Honduran law, children under age 21 who are traveling unaccompanied or with only one parent must have written, notarized permission to travel from the non-traveling parent(s).

• If notarizing a permission letter in Honduras, the letter should be notarized by a Honduran notary public.
• If notarizing a permission letter in the United States, the letter should be apostilled by the U.S. state registrar where the notary is registered.  Honduran immigration authorities may also accept permission letters notarized at a Honduran embassy or consulate in the United States.
• If there is no second parent with legal custody of the child (e.g., the second parent is deceased, one parent has sole custody, etc.), travelers can provide copies of the relevant paperwork such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or residents of Honduras.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs information  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  While crime and violence are serious problems throughout the country, municipalities along the north coast and central portions of the country have historically had the country’s highest crime rates.

Gracias a Dios 

In particular, Gracias a Dios is a remote location where narcotics trafficking is commonplace, infrastructure is weak, government services are limited, and police or military presence is scarce. As a result, the U.S. Embassy has restricted U.S. government personnel travel to Gracias a Dios. U.S. citizens should not travel to Gracias a Dios. The Honduran government conducts police and military patrols in major cities in an effort to reduce crime. However, the ability of Honduran law enforcement authorities to prevent, respond to, and investigate criminal incidents, and to prosecute criminals is limited.

Bay Islands and Copan Ruins 

Areas frequented by tourists, such as the Bay Islands (including Roatan, Utila and Guanaja) and Copan Ruins, have notably lower rates of violent crime and increased law enforcement services. U.S. government employees have no restrictions on travel to these areas. Travelers should still exercise reasonable precautions. Of note, foreign residents of the Bay Islands who purchase properties have reported increased incidents of harassment, including being the victims of violent attacks, after becoming involved in disputes.

Review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings and local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance, take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security, and follow instructions of local authorities.

Read the  Travel Advisory for Honduras  for additional information.

Demonstrations:   Demonstrations regularly occur in Honduras, particularly near the Presidential Palace, Congress, and the universities in Tegucigalpa. Protests and work stoppages have become common at Ministerio Publico offices throughout the country, leading to interruptions in services. Additionally, some protests directed toward the U.S. government, usually small in size, can occur around the U.S. Embassy. In addition, there are often demonstrations on the CA-5, the main highway connecting Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula. This highway is used to access or exit Palmerola International Airport – XPL, near Comayagua (54 miles north of Tegucigalpa). Palmerola is currently the main international airport for Tegucigalpa. Protests often result in the extended closure of major roads and highways in and between major cities, blocking the flow of goods, services and reducing access to daily household supplies. U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Honduras should avoid large gatherings or events where crowds have congregated to demonstrate, protest, or cause damage as a byproduct of celebrating an event, such as after soccer matches. 

Victims of Crime:  If you are a victim of crime, call the national police by dialing 911. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

Also contact the U.S. Embassy at 011-504-2236-9320 or 011-504-2238-5114 (and after-hours at 011-504-2238-5114). We can:

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  resources for victims of crime
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find resources for accommodation and flights home

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Severe Weather:  Honduras is vulnerable to hurricanes, heavy rains, and flooding, especially between June and November. For up-to-date information, visit Honduras’ National Emergency Management Commission ( COPECO ) website for current alerts, as well as the  National Hurricane Center’s website .

Scams:  See the  Department of State  page for information on scams.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

State of Exception:  Honduras is under a long-standing “State of Exception”. There may be restrictions on freedom of movement and other rights under this State of Exception. Monitor local media for updates and information on restrictions in specific neighborhoods.  

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. It is important for all U.S. citizens in Honduras to be aware that Honduran legal procedures and traditions differ greatly from those to which most Americans are accustomed.

Judicial procedures are not always clear or easily understood by foreigners, and significant delays during the investigation and trial dates are common. U.S. citizens, as well as Hondurans, are often held in jail for months, and sometime years, while awaiting trial.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special circumstances:

Customs Regulations:   Strict regulations apply to the import and export of items such as vehicles, medications, and business equipment.  Honduran law prohibits the export of artifacts from pre-colonial civilizations, as well as certain birds and other flora and fauna.  For specific information, contact the Embassy of Honduras in Washington, DC and see our  Customs Regulations . 

Individuals found to be in possession of illicit drugs, firearms, or more than $10,000 in currency are likely to be arrested and face prosecution by Honduran authorities. Fines for carrying more than $10,000 in undeclared currency can exceed one third of the total amount of currency carried by the traveler.

Medication and Medical Equipment:  Medical brigades traveling to Honduras are advised that they need to complete customs forms, as well as medical clearance forms, at least three business days prior to brining medications or medical equipment into the country. U.S. citizens taking part in medical missions to Honduras should contact Aduanas Honduras ( www.aduanas.gob.hn ) and ARSA ( https://www.arsa.gob.hn/ ) for information regarding the timeline for customs approval, the forms that are required, and restrictions on the types of medications and equipment that are allowed.

Firearms:   No one may bring firearms into Honduras, except for diplomats and other official travelers, or individuals participating in sporting events who have obtained a firearm permit from the Honduran Ministry of Security or Ministry of Defense prior to travel. Individuals who attempt to bring firearms into Honduras without an appropriate permit, will face prosecution for criminal possession and possibly trafficking of firearms.

Marine Safety and Oversight:   Honduran military personnel commonly board private vessels in Honduran territorial waters to verify crew and passenger documentation. Criminals have been known to pose as fisherman and commit armed assaults. If your vessel is hailed by a suspicious vessel, contact the U.S. Coast Guard by radio or INMARSAT at (305) 415-6800. U.S. citizens arriving to Honduras by sea, whether by private vessel or cruise ship, are subject to the same laws as other travelers.

Investment:   Many U.S. firms and citizens operating in Honduras have found corruption to be a serious problem. Due to poor regulation, financial investments pose high risks and have led to substantial losses.

Exercise extreme caution before investing in real estate. Fraudulent deeds are common and have led to numerous disputes. In addition, threats and violence have been used against U.S. citizens involved in property disputes. Numerous U.S. citizens have reported significant delays in resolving judicial cases and/or lack of cooperation from courts and the legal system.  

For further information, review the State Department’s Investment Climate Statement and the  U.S. Embassy’s information page on purchasing property in Honduras .

Adventure Sports:   There is little to no oversight of safety standards in Honduras. You should research service providers to ensure they are using internationally acceptable or certified equipment, guides, safety measures, and instruction.

Faith-Based Travelers:   See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Honduras. However, many activists report that crimes committed against the LGBTQI+ community go unpunished. There have also been cases of police harassment of patrons in LGBTQI+ nightclubs. LGBTQI+ travelers should exercise caution, especially when expressing affection in public.

See   our  LGBTQ+I travel information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Honduran law requires access to buildings for persons with disabilities; however, few buildings are accessible. Please review the information on the  State Department’s Traveling with Disabilities website .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Staff, facilities, and supplies in Honduras often do not meet U.S. medical standards. There are adequate facilities in Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula for advanced surgical procedures in case of non-elective emergencies.

Honduras lacks the infrastructure to maintain water purity and food safety. Diarrheal illness is very common even in large cities and luxury accommodations. Only sealed commercial water containers (bottles) are considered safe to drink.

Air pollution can aggravate or lead to respiratory problems during the dry season due to widespread forest fires and agricultural burning.

The State Department and the U.S. Embassy will not pay your medical bills:   Be aware that  U.S. Medicare  does not apply overseas. 

Medical insurance:   Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation. 

Prescription medication:   If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Embassy of Honduras in Washington, D.C . to ensure the medication is legal in Honduras. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Always ensure you have enough medicine to cover your travel time, and research its availability in Honduras, or whether there is a viable replacement.

Medical Marijuana:   Marijuana, even for medicinal use and with a prescription, is illegal in Honduras. A traveler who is found to have any amount of marijuana in their possession (including vape cartridges, edibles, organic cannabis, etc.) will face criminal prosecution for possession or trafficking.

The following diseases are prevalent in Honduras:

• Chikungunya
• Dengue Fever

Please review the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC) website for further information.

Vaccinations:  Honduras requires proof of Yellow Fever immunization if traveling to or coming from another country endemic with Yellow Fever. Check with your airline for vaccine requirements and be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Because of crime, poor road conditions, and heavy commercial truck traffic, driving in Honduras can be dangerous. The U.S. Embassy discourages car and bus travel after dark.  

• Honduran roads are poorly lit and poorly marked.
• Traffic signs are often inadequate or non-existent.  
• Drivers don’t always use headlights at night.
• People and animals wander onto the roads.
• Rockslides are common, especially in the rainy season (May through December) and can cause closure of major highways.  

Dangerous stretches of road include:

• The road between Tegucigalpa to Choluteca:  Be aware of mountain curves.
• The road from El Progreso to La Ceiba:  Bridges may be in poor condition due to regular flooding.
• CA-5 and the highway between San Pedro Sula and Tela, particularly near the palm tree plantations near El Progreso:  Carjackings and robberies that target SUVs and usually occur at night.
• The road from Juticalpa to Telica, and from the turn off to Gualaco on Route 39 to San Esteban and Bonito Oriental:  Rival criminal elements engage in violent acts against one another. Avoid this road and stay on the main Tegucigalpa-Juticalpa-Catacamas road while traveling in Olancho.

While Honduras and the United States have signed and ratified a Stolen Vehicle Treaty, existing Honduran laws protect good faith buyers (even of stolen vehicles), so the recovery and return of these vehicles to their original owners is not guaranteed. Vehicle insurance may mitigate loss; please check with the  National Insurance Crime Bureau  or with private insurance carriers about coverage details.

Traffic Laws:   In an accident, contact the Honduran Transit Authority (“Transito”) by dialing 911.  

• Honduran law requires all vehicles involved in an accident to remain in place until Transit Authority agents arrive. 
• Notify your car insurance company as soon as possible, preferably right after the accident. 
• Carry personal identification documents, including your driver’s license, copies of passports, and vehicle registration cards while driving.

Public Transportation:   Avoid public transportation in Honduras.  

• If you must travel by bus, always travel during daylight hours and on first-class conveyances, not economy buses. 
• Choose taxis or rideshares carefully. Use Radio-Taxi services (companies that operate by phone) or app-based rideshare programs rather than hailing a taxi on the street and note the driver’s name and license number. Hotels and resorts may be able to recommend trusted taxi or shuttle services. Instruct the driver not to pick up other passengers, agree on the fare before you enter the vehicle, and have small bills available for payment, as taxi drivers often do not make change.
• When possible, travel in groups.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:   As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Honduras, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Honduras’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:   Mariners planning travel to Guatemala should also check for U.S. maritime   advisories  and  alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Honduras was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Honduras.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Is Honduras Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Honduras : Safety by City
• San Pedro Sula
• Tegucigalpa

Honduras is the second biggest country in Central America.

It shares borders with Guatemala to the northwest, El Salvador to the south, and Nicaragua to the southeast.

It boasts natural beauties, colonial villages (Gracias, Comayagua), a breathtaking history that can be experienced during a visit to the ancient Maya ruins, natural parks, both Pacific and Caribbean coastline, and the Bay Islands, that are basically just jaw-dropping beaches offering world-class snorkeling and diving.

Experiencing the coral reefs in the Caribbean paradise of Bay Islands: Utila, Roatán, Guanaja, and the Hog Islands is an exceptional adventure.

Visit the impressive ancient Maya civilization in Copán and marvel at its sculptures that are world-known for their quality.

Be a witness to several Mayan sites such as the main acropolis with the hieroglyphic staircase and the Rosalila Temple, Las Sepulturas, and El Rastrojon.

There there’s one more natural wonder: Lake Yojoa — the biggest lake in Honduras, famous for the little picturesque restaurants offering delicious fried fish by the lake.

• Warnings & Dangers in Honduras

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Honduras is somewhat safe to visit, though it has many dangers. You should be aware that tourist hotspots, public transportation and some streets are places where most thefts and pickpocketing occur, and that violent crime exists on the streets, too.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH

Public transport is highly risky in Honduras. There have been robberies in public transport and buses are sometimes stopped while the robbers attack or harass the passengers. Be wary of unlicensed taxis since you might get kidnapped and robbed.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

As for pickpocketing and bag snatching, it is a recurring concern on the streets of Honduras, so be careful and hold your bags tightly by your side. Make sure you don't flash your valuable possessions on the street, or better yet, leave them in your accommodation.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

As for the natural disasters in Honduras, the rainy seasons that lasts from May to November brings many disastrous threats such as hurricanes, landslides, mudslides and flooding. Apart from that, Honduras is located on an active earthquake zone so tremors can be expected.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Mugging is also an issue in Honduras. In such a situation, hand over all your possessions immediately and do not resist. Armed bandits often attack minibuses and vans loaded with tourists traveling from the airport to their hotels in Sand Pedro Sula. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

The risks of terrorist attacks in Honduras are low, but since they shouldn't be ruled out, it is important that you remain vigilant at all times and aware of your surroundings.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

As in almost any country, there is a great risk of getting scammed if you're a tourist. Always check everything twice and negotiate everything in advance. Taxi drivers might try to trick you into paying more, giving you wrongful information about the price of the ride.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Many women have traveled alone to Honduras and haven't had any problems at all. However, this country isn't the safest in terms of females traveling solo, especially at night and you should exercise precaution measures at all times and avoid dark and empty streets and locations. Be very careful when interacting with men, even hotel employees.

• So... How Safe Is Honduras Really?

Though Honduras is a gorgeous country, you should keep in mind that Honduras has extremely high rates of crime.

The most common form of crime is petty theft, pickpocketing and purse snatching occurring all the time on the streets of Honduras.

This obviously means that you should keep your valuables in a concealed place and avoid going out with jewelry and flashy objects.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Streets of Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula are known for robberies that happen both during day and night, often carried out by two-man teams on motorcycles that snatch items from pedestrians.

Violent crime is a serious issue in Honduras, with crimes such as kidnappings, rape, assaults, and murders.

Armed robbery is a common problem, with armed bandits attacking minibusses and vans loaded with tourists traveling from the airport to their hotels in San Pedro Sula.

Sometimes they even stop the buses in order to rob and assault the passengers and drivers.

Murder rate may be the biggest concern for foreigners.

During the period between 2010 and 2015 Honduras had the highest murder rate in the entire world.

Many accidents occur shortly after the victims arrive in Honduras and it may be so because there are criminal sources at the airports tipping off the information they pick up about tourists’ whereabouts and accommodation.

Because of this, visitors are strongly advised against discussing the details of their travel plans and accommodation in public.

• How Does Honduras Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries do not need a visa in order to enter Honduras for any stays shorter than 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months past your date of arrival. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Honduran lempira is the official currency in Honduras. All larger towns and cities have ATMs all around but be careful when handling it on the streets. Credit cards are usually accepted in tourist related establishments.

Honduras has tropical climate which is characterized in this country by cooler, milder weather in the mountains with lower temperatures of about 16°C to 20°C. The north coastline is very hot with rain during the year, and though it feels milder with the offshore breezes relieving the temperatures, the sun is very strong.

Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport also referred to as La Mesa International Airport is the main and busiest airport in Honduras. It is located 11 km east of the city of San Pedro Sula.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Honduras, because it would cover not only medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

Honduras Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Honduras - Safety by City

Explore honduras.

• 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Honduras
• Are There Sharks in Honduras?
• 10 Safest Cities in Honduras
• 5 Impressive Facts About Roatan
• 10 Things for Quick Adrenaline Boost in Utila, Honduras
• Where to Next?

9 Reviews on Honduras

Wow, I had no clue things are that bad… I was researching things a bit before booking our plane tickets to visit Honduras for a second time for a business-related trip… I stayed in Tegucigalpa last time and oh boy, was it crowded, I felt like in an ant village.

Safe if you avoid key points

I stayed at the Marriott hotel and traveled by Uber so I didn’t have the chance to see the city in its whole. I remember reading about their criminality rates and I was a bit scared but luckily the trip went ok in my case.

Honduras the Murder Capitol

My son was murdered there in2017 and nothing their Government did. HONDURAS IS A HORRIBLE COUNTRY TO VISIT. I DON’T KNOW WHY THIS PLACE IS EVEN ON THE MAP

Terrible place too dangerous

Ridiculous why go there

its safe but avoid gangs and avoid walking late

i live in honduras i mean its not completey Safe because there is a lot of armed robbery murders drugs and in fact i live in sps/San Pedro sula and murders and drugs are common but that;’s normal life here i mean car accidents are also common.

Never again for me

I made the mistake of not researching Honduras’ safety before the trip, I was just glad I scored cheap plane tickets to somewhere warm. Never making that mistake again! I was mugged in broad daylight without someone making the slightest effort to do something…

Most people are wonderful but there’s a lot of crime

Honduras is a beautiful place but also a dangerous place as well. It’s too bad that the police and the Government doesn’t do more to protect its people and tourists because this country has so much to offer. I’ve been there 3 times already and I will probably go a few more times in the next few years. I actually love the people there and have made good friends over the years. I had to go there because of work related things and I also had a bit of time to travel the country and visit some of the major cities and also some smaller ones and even villages like Comayagua (which is beautiful) while there.

Most people are very friendly and hospitable but there are also a lot of criminals that operate here. I’ve seen (almost) all of it while I was here and it’s not pretty. There needs to be a serious police presence if this is to ever stop, otherwise I can’t, in good conscience, tell others to visit Honduras. It’s just too dangerous and you always have to be on the lookout, even in the daytime.

San Pedro Sula is very dangerous and I would avoid it if possible. This article is correct in saying there are criminal sources at some airports tipping off the criminals about tourists arrivals and routes. Be very careful that you are not overheard here.

I know of people getting robbed, beaten or killed even while it was light out and both in secluded and circulated areas. The locals know which places to avoid and when but tourists don’t.

The people here deserve a lot better and I would rate them with 5 stars for their love for their country and for their hospitality. But, taking in account all the dangers this should be a 2.

Tela honduras

I’ve been to honduras 🇭🇳 before 3 times my wife was born there but now is us citizen she was born and raised in the town called tela. it is a very nice town by the beach although you do see armed guards at the stores and bank and gas stations but I guess that how it is also you can get fresh fish red snapper grouper and shrimp and the people I have met are friendly what I would say always be aware of your surroundings any where you go you should be 🙂 fine plus all the fresh fruit !!!

Honduras crying out…

If you’re a drug nut looking to score drugs, you will encounter the scum of HONDURAS and DANGER! They should ALL be eradicated from our country! I’m a Honduran/American speaking not as a foreigner, but a born raised British Honduran. The Honduran people are the kindest, most hospitable people, they would give you the clothes off their backs! CORRUPTION, greed and poverty is what infest HONDURAS! If every drug dealer were force to consume all the drugs their caught with until they’re demise, have this action as law of the land for selling drugs in Honduras this will STOP in a matter of months or 2 dealers dying. This one thing will free the Honduran people from drugs, opresión and eliminate the poverty, impuestos de Guerra. This will set free a country with incredible natural resources and the incredible population primed to reach they’re real potential. They will be no need to migrate to the USA because the natural beauty of HONDURAS, the love all citizens have for their country, they’re hard working primed them for success!! What’s needed? A president with BALLS enough to implement sincerely the freedom from opresión the people live under the shadows of drug peddling scums….

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
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Honduras Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Honduras. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Dengue June 25, 2024 Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Destination List: Afghanistan, Argentina, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curaçao, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, Ethiopia, Fiji, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Indonesia, Laos, Mali, Martinique (France), Mauritius, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Uruguay

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Honduras.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Honduras. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Honduras.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Honduras take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Honduras.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are sometimes found in Honduras.

Rabies is also present in bats.

If rabies exposures occur while in Honduras, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers 1-60 years old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Honduras, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Honduras. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Honduras include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Honduras. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Honduras’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Honduras. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Honduras may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Honduras, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Honduras, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Honduras .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Honduras for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Honduras Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Honduras

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Open with restrictions

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Documents & Additional resources

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Can I travel to Honduras from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Honduras.

Can I travel to Honduras if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Honduras without restrictions.

Can I travel to Honduras without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Honduras without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Honduras?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Honduras.

Can I travel to Honduras without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Honduras?

Mask usage in Honduras is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Honduras?

Restaurants in Honduras are open with restrictions. Bars in Honduras are .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Honduras travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 7, 2024 11:35 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, honduras - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Honduras due to crime.

Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• within 20 km of the border with Guatemala, excluding:
• Copán Ruinas
• El Florido border crossing
• CA-11 Highway to El Florido border crossing
• within 20 km of the border with El Salvador, excluding :
• CA-1 Highway to the El Amatillo border crossing
• CA-4 Highway to the El Poy border crossing
• RN-112 Highway between Palmerola airport and the municipality of El Amatillo
• in the departments of:
• Choluteca: the city of Choluteca
• Colón, excluding the city of Trujillo
• Cortés:
• the eastern neighbourhoods of San Pedro Sula:
• Chamalecón
• Cofradía
• Rivera Hernandez
• the city of Choloma
• the neighbourhood of El Planeta in the city of La Lima
• Francisco Morazán: the city of Comayagüela, excluding the Toncontin airport and the major roads leading there
• Gracias a Dios

Back to top

Borders areas

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence.

If you’re travelling by land to neighbouring countries:

• use official border crossings only
• consider crossing borders in the morning as they sometimes close unexpectedly early
• avoid anyone suggesting that they can obtain your documents quicker or cheaper on your behalf
• keep the receipt of payment of the border fee until you leave the country

Criminal groups are especially active on the coast between the Guatemalan border and Puerto Cortés. Criminal activities include:

• drug trafficking
• human trafficking

There has also been an increased number of migrants leaving Honduras through Guatemala, particularly at the border crossing in Agua Caliente. This movement results in periodic closures.

The El Florido border crossing in the town of Copán is also closed daily from 9 pm to 6 am.

There has also been an increased number of migrants leaving Nicaragua through Honduras, particularly at the border crossings in Las Manos and Trojes.

Expect possible delays at borders.

Department of Cortés

Street gangs and criminal groups are very active in the Cortés municipalities of:

• San Pedro Sula

The number of murder and violent crime is higher in these areas.

Departments of Colón, Gracias a Dios, Olancho and Yoro

Drugs smuggling and violence pose security threats in the northern departments of:

• Colón

Roadblocks and violent incidents related to land disputes in Colón, mostly in the Aguán valley and in the north coast area near Trujillo, have occurred.

The department of Gracias a Dios is a remote area where law enforcement and access to government services are very limited. Levels of criminal activity are high.

Violent crime is high in the coastal city of La Ceiba. This includes murders and armed robberies.

Although tourists are not the primary target of criminals, you could be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

If you consider travelling to La Ceiba:

• use reputable tour operators only
• choose accommodation with good security measures
• avoid outings outside the resort

Bay Islands

The Bay Islands are generally safe.  Violent crime is lower, but petty crime sometimes occurs.

Some foreigners have been assaulted on beaches, mainly at night. Home burglaries have also occurred, sometimes in rental accommodations.

While in the Bay Islands:

• avoid Coxen hole, Los Fuertes and Suampo neighbourhoods after dark
• avoid isolated beaches and areas
• stay in well-lit areas
• make sure you lock windows and doors at night and when you are away

If you’re docking in Roatán and getting off the cruise ship, you should consider booking a tour or a sightseeing trip through a reputable company to avoid becoming the victim of a scam.

Violent crime

Although the overall situation has slightly improved since 2022, violent crime remains a concern throughout Honduras. The country retains one of the highest homicide rates in the world.

Drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent in certain neighbourhoods. Violent incidents are frequent, including:

• armed robberies
• kidnappings
• home invasions
• sexual assaults

These crimes are carried out by criminals acting individually or as a group.

Many Hondurans are armed. Guns and other weapons, such as machetes and knives, are frequently used. Incidents of armed robbery occur mainly on urban streets during the day and on intercity buses at night. 

The Government of Honduras lacks sufficient resources to properly respond to, investigate and prosecute cases. Infiltration within the security forces by local gangs weaken law enforcement even further. Criminals linked to organized crime often operate with a high degree of impunity throughout Honduras.

• Remain aware of your surroundings at all times
• Maintain your cellphone charged
• Avoid travelling after dark
• Avoid walking alone
• Keep a low profile
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• don’t resist if you’re threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Thefts commonly occur in: 

• popular tourist areas
• bus terminals and airports
• shopping malls and hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including patios

To avoid becoming a victim:

• be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
• avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers
• avoid hitchhiking
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secured at all times
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• avoid showing signs of affluence

State of emergency

Local authorities periodically declare a state of emergency in various municipalities to fight against gang-related crime and extortion.

While a state of emergency is in effect, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches, seizures and detain persons of interest.

If you are travelling in an area where a state of emergency is in effect:

• be aware that you may be subject to searches by security forces
• always cooperate with military and police officers
• carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
• allow extra time to reach your destination
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings can occur in urban areas.

These kidnappings are often committed by organised gangs or taxi drivers. The kidnappers usually take their victims to an ATM and force them to make a cash withdrawal.

• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• If you’re threatened, don’t resist

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations take place regularly. In Tegucigalpa, demonstrations may occur:

• at the National Congress and Central Park
• at the National Autonomous University of Honduras
• at the United States Embassy
• at the Centro Civico
• at the Presidential Palace
• at the Hospital Escuela
• on Suyapa and Centroamerica boulevards
• on La Paz and Los Próceres avenues
• along the Peripheral Ring Road

In San Pedro Sula, protesters usually gather at the Monumento a la Madre.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Honduran law prohibits political activities by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or activities may result in you being detained or deported.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags to warn of unsafe conditions.

• Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
• Don’t swim alone alone or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Monitor weather warnings

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, diving, mountain biking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in during summer.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your expedition companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Accidents causing fatalities are common. The number of traffic accidents involving tourists has also increased.

Road conditions

Many roads are poorly delineated due to regular flooding. Driving can be dangerous due to:

• roaming livestock and wildlife
• poorly maintained roads and bridges
• unpaved roads
• inadequate lighting
• lack of signage
• lack of guardrails
• winding mountain roads
• overloaded or poorly maintained vehicles
• slow-moving or heavy traffic, especially in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa

If you’re travelling by land, use caution between:

• El Progreso and La Ceiba
• Chamelecón and Copán via Cofradía
• Copán and Gracias Lempira
• Limones to La Unión

Between Tegucigalpa to Trujillo, you should use the RN39 and transit via Gualaco, San Esteban and Bonito Oriental rather than the RN41 via Salamá et Sabá.

Road safety

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds. They may be aggressive and reckless.

If you drive in Honduras:

• always drive defensively
• maintain a heightened awareness along all routes
• plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit a rural area
• avoid road travel at night
• keep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times
• avoid picking up hitchhikers
• carry a cell phone and a charger
• avoid renting cars and motorcycles from operators who don’t provide insurance
• ensure that helmets meet international safety standards

Police officer impersonation

Gang members and criminals sometimes disguise themselves as police officers. At legitimate police checkpoints, you should see:

• a police vehicle
• green cones
• at least five police officers

If you have any doubts, you may contact the Honduran Transit Authority by dialing 911 to confirm the location of the roadblocks and the identity of the individuals stopping you before rolling down your window or opening your door.

Sometimes, thieves also pose as victims of road accidents.

• Don’t stop to help a person at the side of the road
• Report any suspicious incidents at the next police checkpoint

Public transportation

Public transportation in Honduras is unsafe and unreliable.

Most urban public buses are poorly maintained. Drivers are reckless. Accidents are common.

Incidents of armed robbery are frequent on public buses. Incidents of arson have also occurred.   

• Avoid intercity public transportation
• Use only companies that offer non-stop service from your place of departure to your destination

Some taxis are an acceptable option for transportation.

When travelling to the airport, you may pre-arrange your pickup with your hotel prior to your departure. Authorized airport taxis drivers wear easily identifiable ID badges.

• Use a reliable taxi company recommended by your hotel
• Don’t use white street taxis
• Never board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis in the street
• Never use shared taxis
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Note driver’s name and plate number
• Negotiate the fare in advance
• Make sure you have small bills as taxi drivers often don’t make change

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Honduran authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days Student permit: required

Student permit

If you intend to study in Honduras, you must obtain a student permit which can be obtained from the immigration authorities once you arrive in the country.

National Institute of Migration – Government of Honduras

Customs declaration form

You must complete the Government of Honduras' customs declaration form prior to entering or leaving the country.

After completing the online form, you must present the QR code to the customs authorities, either on paper or electronically.

Customs declaration form – Government of Honduras

Entry stamp

Immigration authorities will stamp your passport upon arrival and write down the number of days you are allowed in the country. The 90-day period is not guaranteed, and the decision is at their discretion.

You may face a fine and possible delays if you fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Honduras.

• Make sure your passport has been stamped upon arrival
• Take good note of the maximum length of your approved stay

Central America-4 Border Control Agreement

Under the terms of the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement (CA-4), Canadian tourists may travel freely within any of the following CA-4 countries:

• El Salvador

You can travel between these countries for up to 90 days without having to undergo entry and exit formalities at border immigration checkpoints.

You must still check in at immigration counters when you enter or exit these checkpoints.

The 90-day period begins at the first point of entry to any of the CA-4 countries. You will be fined if you exceed the 90-day limit.

Entering by land

If you plan to enter by land, you need to pay 3 USD or the equivalent in lempiras.

Stay extension

You can apply for extensions of up to 30 days at a time, at the discretion of the immigration authorities. You must request this extension and pay the required fee at the Honduran immigration office before your first 90-day limit expires.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof that you have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay
• Children and travel

The age of majority in Honduras is 21. The country has strict requirements for the entry and exit of minors.

A minor must show a written and notarized authorization to travel:

• signed by both parents if travelling alone
• signed by the non-travelling parent if travelling with one parent only

The written authorization must be in Spanish and authenticated by the Honduran authorities prior to arrival.

This is also enforced if the minor has a residential or citizenship tie to Honduras inherited from one of the parents, even if the tie has not been legally registered.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Public medical services and facilities remain below Canadian standards. Medical facilities are understaffed and underfunded. They lack medical supplies and adequately trained professionals.

You should use private health care where possible. There are some private clinics and hospitals in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa as well as in tourist areas such as the Bay Islands. However, they are often limited and services are expensive.

Doctors typically require upfront payment in cash. They may only speak Spanish.

Emergency services may not be able to access areas outside of major cities. Emergency medical facilities are also very limited on the Bay Islands. Major medical procedures and surgeries may require medical evacuation to a major centre.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Some prescription medication may not be available in Honduras.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Air pollution

Air pollution can be severe in major cities, especially at its peak during the dry season between March and May. It may primarily affect the elderly, pregnant women and children, and people suffering from respiratory ailments.

During periods of high pollution:

• wear a mask and use air purifiers
• limit your activities outdoors
• monitor local media

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Honduras are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Honduras to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Honduran authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences or heavy fines.

Honduras is used as a drug trafficking hub between South and North America.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Don’t transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
• Never exchange money for strangers, as this is a common request from money launderers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Honduran law prohibits the export of:

• antiques and artifacts from pre-colonial civilizations
• some birds, feathers, flora and fauna

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

Many tourists have reported complications during real estate transactions in Honduras.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Honduras:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Honduras before making commitments
• choose your own Honduran lawyer specializing in real estate
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller
• visit the property in person before purchasing
• carefully review the sales contract as it may contain irregularities
• confirm the name of the last owner and verify that the property is free of any mortgage or taxes from the local property registry (Instituto de la propiedad)
• confirm that there are no heritage or land ownership disputes

Political activities

It’s illegal for foreigners to participate in local political activities, rallies or public demonstrations in Honduras.

Political involvement may result in your deportation or expulsion.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Honduras.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Honduras, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Honduran law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, same-sex couples are not legally recognized.

LGBTQ2 travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Honduras.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Honduras, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Honduran court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Honduras to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You may drive in Honduras with your valid Canadian driver license for up to 3 months.

At all times when driving, you must carry:

• your driver’s license
• your passport
• the vehicle’s registration

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene
• don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive
• call 911 to report the accident and request Transit Police

Failure to remain at the site may be considered an admission of guilt under Honduran law. However, some accidents may attract a crowd that could turn hostile. If you feel unsafe:

• ensure your windows and doors are locked
• drive to the nearest police station or a secure location
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

If you are involved in a road accident causing injuries, you may be temporarily detained, regardless of culpability. 

International Driving Permit

The currency in Honduras is the lempira (HNL).

You cannot exchange Canadian dollars in Honduras. You can easily exchange U.S. dollars.

ATMs are available in urban areas but not all foreign cards work at all ATMs or points of service. They may be rare in rural areas.

A valid passport is required for all financial transactions.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from May to November. It can lead to severe flooding.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Wildfires are common between December and April.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Honduras is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Tsunami warnings may be issued after a strong earthquake. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• COPECO  - Honduran disaster relief agency (in Spanish)
• Earthquakes  - What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 911.

There are tourist police forces in the following cities:

• Cantarranas
• San Lorenzo
• Santa Lucía
• Tegucigalpa
• Valle de Ángeles

Consular assistance

Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua

For emergency consular assistance, call the office of the Embassy of Canada to Honduras, in Tegucigalpa, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Safety and security

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.   

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Honduras

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Honduras, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Protests can happen anywhere in Honduras. Although normally peaceful, these can rapidly turn violent with a general breakdown in law and order, including looting. The police have frequently responded with tear gas and there have been deaths and injuries.

Although protests are normally restricted to the main cities (especially Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba), the authorities can set up roadblocks anywhere at short notice and these cause significant travel disruptions. Your travel plans may be affected at short notice.

It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political activities. If you take part in protests, you may be detained and deported. Avoid all demonstrations and protests and do not try to pass through blockades. Follow the advice of local authorities and your tour operator or airline and monitor local and social media.

There are high levels of crime in Honduras. Most serious crime does not affect tourists, but there have been attacks on foreigners, including armed robbery and sexual assault. Attacks can take place anywhere at any time.

Protecting your belongings

Petty theft is a problem in cities and tourist areas, including the Bay Islands (Roatán, Utila and Guanaja). Avoid walking around Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula and other main towns and cities in mainland Honduras. Be particularly careful at bus stations, airports, isolated beaches, tourist sites and on public transport. Keep your valuables locked away in a safe if possible. Avoid displaying valuable items like jewellery, cameras, tablets, laptops and mobile phones.

Criminals have robbed foreigners after they’ve withdrawn money at ATMs.

ATMs are available in the major towns. Check with your hotel which ATMs to use, especially in Roatán. It is safer to withdraw money from ATMs in shopping centres and to change money in hotels or banks. Check ATMs for evidence of tampering, although affected machines may not be easy to spot. Do not withdraw a lot of money at one time and avoid withdrawals at night.

People have been killed and injured resisting criminals. It is useful to carry a small amount of money to hand out if you’re robbed.

Violent attacks against vehicles

There have been violent attacks on people in cars and buses. Using a reputable tour company for longer journeys may reduce the risks. For shorter distances, use radio-dispatched taxis or hotel taxis. It is generally safer to travel on main roads between major cities and tourist destinations.

Take precautions such as:

• locking vehicle doors
• keeping windows closed
• not travelling after dark
• travelling in convoy
• not picking up hitchhikers

Take care if you’re travelling alone. In remote areas it may be safer to travel with others or join a tour. Do not accept lifts from strangers or hitchhike.

Avoid travelling on public buses (repainted US school buses). There has been an increase in armed attacks by local gangs on bus drivers and conductors, often resulting in serious injury or death. There have been violent muggings, rape and assault against foreigners on these buses. Private intercity coach services are safer but not immune from attack.

There have been attacks on roads:

• from Limones to La Union
• from Olancho via Salama to Saba
• from Gualaco to San Esteban
• from La Esperanza to Gracias
• in the Department of Santa Barbara
• in and around Tela, La Ceiba, Trujillo and El Progreso

Scam artists target foreign visitors and residents. The scams come in many forms and can cause great financial loss. Warn your friends and family to be sceptical if they’re asked to transfer funds to you in Honduras. Tell them to contact you to check that you’ve made this request.

State of exception (emergency) 

As part of its plan to address extortion, the Honduras government announced a state of exception (emergency) in December 2022. This measure has been repeatedly extended and remains in place, affecting over 100 municipalities across the country.

During this time there may be restrictions on freedom of movement and other rights in the affected municipalities. Seek advice from your travel agent. You must always carry a valid ID and be prepared for checkpoints.

You should:

• allow extra time to reach your destination
• monitor local media for updates and information on restrictions
• avoid crowds or demonstrations
• always co-operate with military and police officers

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id and travel documents.

You must always carry photo ID. Carry a copy of the photo page of your passport with you. Leave the original in a safe place.

Make sure you always have the documents for your hotel, car rental, tour or ticket reservations. Local authorities may stop you and ask for documents confirming your travel plans. 

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

There are severe penalties for drug trafficking (15 to 20 years in prison and a very large fine) and drug use (from 3 to 9 months in a rehabilitation centre). Honduran prisons are overcrowded and violent.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality is not illegal. There are no laws guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. There is no recognition of same-sex marriage. People in the capital, Tegucigalpa, are largely tolerant of individuals’ personal lifestyles and accept small signs of affection between same-sex couples. There is a more conservative attitude outside the capital and showing affection in public is not recommended.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

US dollars are widely accepted for exchange and payment. It is difficult to exchange British pounds in Honduras. 

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive, see information on driving abroad . 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Honduras for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP . 

Make sure you have adequate insurance.

If you are involved in an accident, contact the police or the fire brigade (telephone: 911), stay with your vehicle and wait for the police to arrive. If you’re in a serious accident, you may be taken into custody regardless of responsibility. Seek legal help and inform the British Embassy in Guatemala .  Take full details of the other driver (who may not be insured), and do not rely solely on the vehicle’s number plate.

Driving standards

Driving standards in Honduras are generally poor. Avoid road travel at night. Many vehicles travel without lights, and animals often wander across roads causing accidents. You may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle if you are not travelling on main roads.

Public buses are often poorly maintained, overcrowded and recklessly driven. Accidents are common and sometimes fatal. Luxury buses, operated by private companies, are usually better maintained.

Some roads remain damaged by hurricanes that struck in 2020.

Air travel 

Airlines in Honduras can change their schedules at short notice. Before you travel, check with your airline or travel agent.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Drought, forest fires and flash flooding are common in Honduras.

See extreme weather and natural hazards for information about how to prepare, and how to react if there is a warning.   

The hurricane season in Honduras normally runs from June to November. Landslides and flooding can affect roads throughout the country. You should monitor local weather reports and check the warnings from the US National Hurricane Center . Follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders. See the Honduran national civil protection website  COPECO (in Spanish).

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a risk in Honduras. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake and tsunami .

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Home » Central America » Travel Safety

Is Honduras Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Home to the second biggest barrier reef in the world , beaches, and sparkling turquoise sea, as well as a whole host of Mayan ruins , amazing coffee, and the second largest rainforest in the Americas, Honduras is extremely biodiverse: there are 770 bird species alone.

But Honduras is far from Eden . You may be thinking “ why is Honduras so dangerous?” Well, v iolence has long ruled here. This Central American country actually has one of the highest murder rates in the world. Drug trafficking gangs, corruption, and extreme poverty keep Honduras down.

Naturally, you’re going to be wondering, “Is Honduras safe?” That is why we have created this insider’s guide looking at the safety of travelers in Honduras. We are all about smart travel and we’re here to help you travel smart too.

We are going to be covering a whole lot of topics in this epic Honduras safety guide. We’ll be answering super important questions including “How safe is Honduras right now?” and “Is it safe to live in Honduras?” We also give loads of tips for solo travelers and families.

For your trip to Honduras, our handy guide has you covered.

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How Safe is Honduras? (Our take)

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Biodiversity is a huge part of Honduras. There’s more nature here than you can shake a stick at. Couple that with 470 miles of (mainly) Caribbean coastline, a load of beaches and tropical islands, as well as  Mayan ruins  and you got yourself a dream destination. 

It might sound like paradise… But it isn’t. Honduras isn’t exactly what we’d call safe.

This Central American country suffers from what many countries in the region have suffered from or are currently battling with – namely corruption, gangs,  and  drugs.  With those come violence  and  poverty. So backpacking Honduras isn’t always just a breeze…

In fact, most people in Honduras have a family member in a gang. So, yeah. We’re not going to lie – it’s pretty sketchy.

However, whilst it’s quite dangerous, the government is promoting tourism in Honduras. And people do go.

Some areas are also safer than others. For example, the  Bay Islands  are  safer  than the mainland. Many people do travel to this particular part of Honduras,  even with their families.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Honduras Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Honduras. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Honduras.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Visiting Honduras right now is as safe as it ever was:  not very.

However, More than  2 million tourists  visited in 2017 . A large chunk of those  arrived via cruise ships, however. That’s mainly to visit islands like Roatan. Chances are, if you are arriving via a cruise ship, you will be safe. Traveling around the country is a more complicated matter.

The government of Honduras is committed to attracting more tourists. By 2020 they want an additional million  tourists annually. Clearly, with the pandemic, that goal wasn’t reached, but it’s not been forgotten either.

Honduras is one of the  murder capitals  of the world. The rate of young people killing other young people is down to two main gangs :  Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and  Barrio 18.  They practice “war taxing”, which is essentially just demanding money from people. This helps keep everyone in poverty.

There have been protests due to  contested election results in late 2017 .  In these demonstrations, more than 1,500 were arrested and  30 people were killed.

That said, the government claims there has been a 52% decrease in violent crime over the past five years. In fact, according to  InSight Crime there has definitely been around a 26% drop in crime since 2016. This is due to negotiations  between criminal groups and the government, and possibly because of economic aid from the US.

So whilst it’s getting  safer , it’s a slow process. We’d say only experienced, intrepid travelers should tackle this one alone. Anyone else would do well with a trusted tour group.

There are probably more sketchy areas in Honduras than there are safe ones. generally, if you’re visiting with a guided tour, you should be fine. However, if you decide to travel independently, you’ll face quite a few challenges. To make sure you’re having a successful trip, we’ve listed the safest, and the no-go areas below.

Bay Islands

The Bay Islands are the only palace in Honduras that can (kind of) be considered somewhat safe. While there were a few violent crime incidents, most travelers have a safe and pleasant stay. You can also visit the island through a guided tour, which will add another layer of safety to your trip. These are the safest islands: 

Utila Island 

Once you get off the ferry in Utila you have officially entered an alternate reality. Utila is unlike the rest of mainland Honduras in just about every way. Suddenly you find yourself surrounded by backpackers, dive shops, hostels, burger shacks, smoothie stands, and pirate bars.

It is important to know that Utila is very much a developed backpacker hotspot. Don’t expect to discover an undeveloped private island. That said, the development that has taken place has not totally sucked the island dry of its charm. It may have improved it actually.

Roatan Island

Roatan is the largest of the Honduras Bay Islands. Roatan is the more developed, more expensive, and family friendly big brother of Utila. The island attracts a very different crowd indeed. Expat retirees, yachties, families with kids, and cruise ship tourists make up a large majority of the demographic found on Roatan at any given time.

One good thing I can say about Roatan is that the dive sites are excellent around the island. If you are a keen diver, Roatan is well worth a visit.

Places to avoid in Honduras

We’ve made it pretty clear that Honduras isn’t the safest country. You can definitely push your luck by staying in the wrong neighborhood as well. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time can seriously get you in trouble. That’s why we listed the no-go areas in Honduras below. Note that they are generally safe to visit during the day (with a bit of caution obviously), especially if you have a local guide, but should be fully avoided at night. 

• San Pedro Sula – this is an area that has a lot of gang activity, you should definitely be careful when visiting or might even think about leaving it out if your Honduras itinerary completely. Poverty is bad in San Pedro Sula so you’ll definitely have to watch all of your belongings and stay very aware of your surroundings.
• Tegucigalpa – this is another area with lots of gang activity. While tourists usually aren’t targeted by gang wars and violent crimes, you still need to take a lot of caution while visiting this district. Stay away from the small alleys and side streets and stick with the areas where there are a lot of people. Completely avoid it at night! 
• Any public transport station – these attract thieves and sketchy characters. If you have to wait for your bus or taxi, stay inside a cafe or restaurant until your ride arrives. 

Honduras Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Gang violence is a big issue in Honduras. These drug trafficking gangs rule people’s lives. Lucky for you, you’re not a Honduran citizen. So you’ll likely escape having to pay “war tax” (or facing the consequences). The poverty resulting from all this is what you’ll have to watch out for. Namely, being robbed. There are some safety points  that travelers should know for anywhere they travel, but Honduras requires these special considerations.

• Don’t carry your valuables (or all your cash) around with you – why risk getting them stolen? You can keep extra bank notes and passport copies in a money belt for emergencies.
• On that note, don’t even LOOK wealthy  – designer clothes, jewelry, SLR round your neck = advert for thieves.
• Protests can happen out of the blue  – careful of large crowds. Don’t get involved.
• Protect yourself against mosquitoes  – these nasty critters carry malaria, zika virus, and dengue fever. Cover up, use repellent, burn coils.
• Hand over the goods – if someone does try robbing you,  let them.  Seriously. People die resisting robbery.
• Carry a dummy wallet  – a throwdown, fake wallet, whatever. It should have just a little cash in it to hand over in the event of a mugging.
• Take care of beaches after dark  – especially in Tela  and the  North Coast.  Attacks on tourists have been reported.
• Be vigilant in busy places – tourist spots, airports, bus stations, cities in general. This is pickpockets’ paradise.
• Be aware that there are high levels of HIV and AIDS in Honduras  – it’s important to keep that in mind.
• Use ATMs only in shopping centers, hotels, inside banks – only these areas.
• And don’t use ATMs at night  – there have been attacks on people.
• Or get too much out at once  – again, why risk it? Small amounts only.
• Keep valuables locked in a safe  – room robberies can happen. You don’t want to lose your passport.
• It’s best not to travel around after dark  – it’s riskier.
• Be careful in border areas  – El Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. The border with Nicaragua is also littered with unmarked minefields.
• DON’T DO DRUGS  – they’re illegal and you could end up in a “rehabilitation center”. Plus, why contribute to the gangs?
• Watch out in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa  – this is where the two main gangs operate. In the day, it’s generally ok, but at night you should just take a taxi.
• Nature is dangerous here, too – venomous snakes, crocodiles, poisonous spiders. Watch your step, basically.
• Hurricanes can and do occur from June to November  – if caught one, you’ll want to be staying in a STABLE building.
• Make sure you’re up to date with your vaccines  – check with your doctor and see what you’ll need for Honduras.

It’s not 100% safe in Honduras. Not really. But traveling there is possible, of course. And if you’re visiting as part of a tour, then you’re likely to stay safe. 

Independent travel is going to require A LOT of being careful. Travel smart and make sure your safety and security is your number one priority.

Seeing the world without anyone to answer to, getting to challenge yourself and  grow as a person. There are definitely a fair few pros to solo travel. At the same time, traveling alone can be stressful, boring, lonely, and  dangerous in varying quantities.

And we’re not going to lie,  Honduras doesn’t exactly lend itself to solo travel.  This is essentially an unsafe country. You’ll need to be a confident traveler. This isn’t one for first-time backpackers. But if you’re thinking about it, here are some tips.

• Traveling alone to remote areas  can be sketchy. As in, dangerous. You either take extreme care or make some travel buddies to go with.
• Make sure to stay at  well-reviewed, trusted accommodation. You can see from reviews if the staff somewhere consists of dodgy people. Read reviews, find somewhere that’s right for you, and book yourself a room or a bed. You’ll get to meet fellow travelers at the best places.
• Don’t go off-grid .  Make sure you keep in touch with people. Post a few Facebook updates. Send some messages. Facetime your parents. Just make sure that people know where you are.
• Don’t hitchhike or take lifts from strangers –  especially if you’re by yourself.  People traveling alone are definitely going to be more of a target than a group of people.
• When you’re walking around, look confident.  The more lost you look, the more of an easy target you’re going to be. Try to memorize a map of the area because you definitely don’t want to be getting your phone out all the time, either.
• Stay aware at all times.  This isn’t the sort of country where it’s just a couple of problem areas and that’s it . A lot of Honduras is risky. Don’t let your guard down, stay vigilant, and use your common sense.
• That said, it’ll be cities where most crime occurs. Therefore these are the places that carry the  most risk.  Be on high alert in urban areas.
• When it comes to transport,  leave plenty of time to get to your destination.  Traveling after dark, either on foot, on a bus, or in a car, can be dangerous. Make sure you arrive before night falls.
• Ask locals  about what areas they think are safe. Or simply get recommendations for things to eat, drink, see or do. It’s a good way to get to chat to locals, but also just a good way to see things that maybe other tourists won’t be asking for.
• With that in mind, use those Spanish skills.  Learn a few words and phrases. It will open up the country for you, both in terms of talking to people and simply getting around.

Hondurans are warm and welcoming people who  have to live day in, day out with the violence in their country.  Chatting to them means getting first-hand knowledge, and means your experience is going to be a lot richer. 

Traveling here is definitely adventurous, but that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits for solo travelers. People do it. You can too.

Honduras may have one of the highest murder rates in the world, and as a solo female traveler, that doesn’t sound very inviting as a destination. We get it. We’re not going to say it’s the  safest place to travel,  nor is it going to be the easiest place to travel as a solo female.

But the thing is  women DO travel alone to Honduras.  It can be a super enriching experience. With all the threats of violence, there’s a  low number of tourists, so oddly you can really have an  authentic experience  here while getting to know Honduran women, too.

It can be safe as a solo female traveler in Honduras. Of course, being a woman anywhere is going to come with additional risk . So keep that in mind – and have a read of our safety tips for solo female travelers thinking of taking a trip to Honduras.

• If you’re the sort of person who  prefers  to be around people to chat with, head to the Bay Islands.  This is the safest area of Honduras and this is also the place where you are going to find a lot of other travelers. It’s perfect for sharing travel stories, trips and maybe even making a travel buddy  or two.
• Other ways to meet fellow travelers – and feel safer – involve joining a tour. They can even help take you across other  Central American countries  on your travels, too.
• If not,  plan everything in advance.  Leave fewer things to chance and risk. This will definitely help not just your peace of mind but will help you FEEL and BE safer.
• Check in and let people know your plans. Whether that’s with friends and family back home, or with accommodation staff, or both.  Let people know where you are.  Somebody knowing where you are is much better for your safety than nobody knowing where you are.
• Honduras has a  macho society.  Be aware of how women are perceived, and their role in the male-dominated world of this country. This doesn’t necessarily mean that women are more threatened, just that you might have to be a bit more  aware and assertive.
• It’s not a good idea to go out to bars and clubs by yourself. You’ll get the wrong attention.  Go with a male friend or go out with a  group of people.
• Dress modestly and cover up  to avoid unwanted attention. Anything that shows too much is going to attract too much attention probably. It’s best to be as incognito as possible. Blend in.
• Catcalling definitely happens in Honduras. Don’t make a big deal about it. It will  probably cause more stress than you’ll want. The best course of action is just to ignore it and walk on, but involve someone else if the harassment continues.
• Be aware that Honduran women are  oppressed by the government.  Abortion is  completely illegal  (having been recently  re-criminalized ). There’s very little in terms of gender equality. The opposite in fact.

Honduras may sound scary, but if you take into account the advice of locals, plan ahead, and use your common sense,  Honduras will open up to you as a solo female traveler. Honduran women face daily struggles.  Sexual violence and oppression are frequent tragedies here.

But if you meet the local ladies and  learn about their lives  you’re going to have a VERY enriching experience on your hands. There’s a lot to learn about Honduras that goes beyond gangs and beaches. It’s a country with a big heart. And Honduras  can be a safe place for solo female travelers, but we’d only recommend it after some solo travel experience.

We’ve covered the main safety concerns already, but there are a few more things to know. Read on for more detailed information on how to have a safe trip to Honduras. 

Is Honduras safe to travel for families?

In certain areas, yes – Honduras is safe to travel for families.

Take the  Bay Islands,  for example. You’ll be able to travel around here with relative ease.  Especially  through a tour company.

And this area is great for children. Your little ones get to see the Mesoamerican Reef,  the second largest barrier reef in the world. And that is pretty cool.

La Ceiba  on the northern coast, with mountains, jungles, and beaches, is a chilled and adventurous area to explore. Plus there’s Copan : the ancient  Mayan  archaeological site, complete with amazing sculptures. This is a  pretty safe area to visit.

Honduras, in general, is open and welcoming to children.

We don’t want to recommend traveling to the rest of Honduras with your family. Of course, you can book a local tour that can look after your safety during your trip, but make sure your research leaves you feeling absolutely confident in the reliability of the tour you choose.

You’ll also have to take care that your children don’t stay in the sun for  too long.  It can get SUPER hot in Honduras. That means suncream, sun-hats, and limiting time in the sun.

Is it safe to drive in Honduras?

Nope. Not really. It’s not very safe to drive in Honduras.

Locals drive at  crazy speeds on the highways, there are random toll roads that make the cost high (but if you don’t take them, alternative routes are often not paved ), and there are animals on the road. We’d classify it as generally hazardous.

If you’re not on a highway  you’ll probably need a 4×4.  It’s pretty  extreme. And watch out for bad road conditions after heavy rain. 

You should ask locals on the best routes to take to any given place. Sat Navs might not always tell you the best route.

And there are roads that have higher levels of  attacks,  including carjacking. From  Limones  to  La Union , from  Gualaco  to  San Esteban,  and from  La Esperanza  to  Gracias…  These routes can be  dangerous.  All of these are in Santa Barbara Department , which also sees hijackings around  Tela, La Ceiba, and  El Progreso  as well as  Trujillo.

Don’t drive after dark. Please.

Honestly? It’s just better to have a local driver drive you around. Don’t put yourself through that stress.

Is Uber safe in Honduras?

There is NO Uber in Honduras.

For now, there are 15,000 taxis who want your attention. So…

Are taxis safe in Honduras?

Taxis are  all over the place  in Honduras. And they’re… generally safe.

Radio taxis  are always a better option than hailing one off the street. Get your accommodation to either recommend  a good company or just book one for you.

If you do get one in the street, ensure that you tell the taxi driver that you don’t want to share the taxi.  This is when things can get sketchy. Just in case, that’s “No quiero compartir el taxi.”

You will have to agree on a price  before you get in. And taxi drivers  probably won’t have enough change to cover a big bill, so  carry small denominations.

At nighttime, you should really get a taxi. There are taxi ranks in a lot of locations.

Is public transportation in Honduras safe?

Well… Public transportation can be a  little tricky  in Honduras, and it’s not always safe.

The  public buses  consist of the good old  chicken bus. They’re old U.S. school buses that are poorly maintained, and overcrowded. Certain routes that these take have been the target of  armed attacks.

But travelers DO take these buses. They’re fairly easy to use, but be aware of the risks.

City buses  travel around the cities and towns themselves. They are “taxed” by gangs. Sometimes the drivers are assaulted.

There are private coach services  that connect cities and towns that are usually more maintained and more comfortable than the chicken buses.

These are pretty safe. They’re run by private companies, obviously, and are  more expensive  than public buses. You basically pay for safety, but better safe than sorry we’d say.

There are also  passenger ferries  if you want to go to the  Bay Islands.  You can catch a ferry from the mainland at  La Ceiba  to either  Utila  or  Roatan.  A ferry also runs between  Trujillo  and  Guanaja.

Is the food in Honduras safe?

The food in Honduras is super tasty. On the  Caribbean coast, there are plenty of delicious dishes to sample, with tortillas and things like refried beans served up with every meal. One example: tajadas (fried plantains, topped with cabbage and served with ground beef).

It’s a mix of European , indigenous and Caribbean influence, and you’ll love it. Here’s how to not get ill whilst trying local delights.

• Using some Spanish  will get you pretty far. Just order something at any restaurant using the words plato típico – this just means refried beans, rice, a bit of cheese, plantains and some tortillas. Simple and tasty.
• Ask locals  where’s good to eat. Where you can go to get some REAL local food. Someone is bound to know somewhere that’s amazing.
• If you’ve got no locals to ask, just use your eyes. Look and see where locals are eating. If a restaurant or eatery of any sort looks busy, that’s probably because it’s good, both in terms of taste and not making you ill. 
• Don’t eat at tourist traps. You’ll most likely get watered-down versions of Honduran food and Western stuff. Chances are it wasn’t cooked with too much care.
• There’s a lot of fresh fish in places like  Tela  and  Roatan,  and you should definitely try it. Ask what’s been caught that morning. Basically, you’ll want fresh  fish. There are things like ceviche, which is raw fish, so you just need to make sure that this really IS fresh and that where you’re eating it can be trusted in terms of hygiene.
• Steer clear of anything that you can’t peel yourself. You don’t know how clean the person’s hands are who’s been peeling and chopping the fruit. So do it yourself. You can get LOADS of  fresh  fruit at the markets – just make sure you WASH it before you eat it.
• Don’t go TOO in on the food when you first arrive, especially if you get ill from food quite easily. The flavors, spices and portion sizes  here might slap you down on the toilet for the first few days of your trip. So… Take it easy! At least at first.
• And last – but  definitely  not least – is the old classic: WASH YOUR HANDS. It’s simple. You don’t know how grubby your hands are getting before you eat your lunch or dinner so just wash them. Save yourself from yourself.
• Traveling with an allergy? Research ahead of time how to explain your allergy. Keep in mind that store owners and restaurant staff might not know all the foods that contain allergens, so it’s helpful to know the names of some of these too. If you’re gluten-free , pick up a handy Gluten-Free Translation Card with descriptions of Celiac disease, cross-contamination risk, and local Honduran ingredients in Latin American Spanish.

Honduras isn’t different from lots of other great backpacking countries in that you’re never absolutely safe from food-borne illness. Use these tips to reduce the risk, but we also recommend that you pack some medication fit for a bad stomach.

Can you drink the water in Honduras?

It is honestly NOT safe to drink the water in Honduras.

Lots of travelers stick to bottled water,  but please don’t. There’s a huge problem with single-use plastics in the Earth’s water and you don’t have any assurance whatsoever that your bottles will be properly disposed of, even if you’re careful to sort them in the proper bin.

We travel with a filter bottle, the GRAYL GEOPRESS or we just boil the water for a few minutes and store in a refillable water bottle . It’s better for the environment and ends up being more economical in the long run.

So no. Don’t drink the water without treating, and steer clear of ice cubes,  too.

Is Honduras safe to live?

Honduras has been through a lot in recent years.

Many Hondurans don’t have access to  clean water  and  medical care.  Over  60% of the population  live below the poverty line.

Gangs  play a big part of life here. There are an estimated 115,000 gang members. Everyone from children to adults are recruited.

Not only that, but the  corruption  in everything the low to the high levels of the politics here is standard. Politicians are manipulated by criminals or other politicians. It’s a massive issue.

All that in mind, there are places that expats do  live in Honduras.

There is an expat community in  Trujillo.  This coastal city is more welcoming to  gringos than other places and features beaches fringed by  coral reefs  and there’s a lot of new development happening here.

There’s also  La Ceiba.  This has a pretty good expat community too. It’s also a nice place since the ferry to  Utila  runs from here, making it easy to escape to the tropical paradise of the  Bay Islands  whenever you feel like it.

People live here with children, by themselves, as couples, some retire here, and some people have even started up their own hostels  or other  businesses.

Whilst many people DO live here, it doesn’t mean Honduras is safe to live. Living in Honduras means you’ll have to adjust your life to the way of life here. That means getting used to gangs, violence, and corruption.

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Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Honduras?

There are quite a few cute Airbnbs in Honduras, and as long as you stay in one of the safer neighborhoods, we’d say that renting an Airbnb is perfectly safe. Make sure to check the reviews from previous travellers to check for any problems during their stay. Don’t open the door for anyone, unless you’re expecting a visit. This rule especially goes at night. 

Is Honduras LGBTQ+ friendly? 

We wouldn’t recommend members of the LGBTQ+ community to visit Honduras unless they’re prepared to keep any sort of affection behind closed doors. Honduras isn’t a gay-friendly country, however, there are some movements that are going in the right direction. Activist groups, like the Grupo Prisma, have formed that educate and inform the general public as well as fight the current rules against homosexual relationships. 

Planning a safe trip to Honduras can get quite overwhelming. That’s why we’ve listed and answered the most frequently asked questions on safety in Honduras.

Is Honduras safe for tourists?

Honduras isn’t perfectly safe for tourists, but that doesn’t mean that you can travel there or have a good time. The crime rates are improving and the government is putting a lot of effort into attracting more tourists. That being said, it’s still one of the murder capitals in the world, so if you’re an inexperienced travellers, you won’t be safe.

What is the most dangerous city in Honduras?

San Pedro Sula is the most dangerous city, not just in Honduras, but in the whole world. if you’re visiting Honduras, you will have to avoid this city completely. Gang wars and fights with the police are common in this city.

Why is Honduras so dangerous?

Violent crime is at its peak in Honduras. Poverty, violence, and insecurity are the main reasons for the high crime rate. Then there are quite a lot of gang wars as well. Locals have to pay “war taxes” which keeps the poverty rate high as well. Shootings are very common in poorer areas too.

What to avoid in Honduras?

These are the things to avoid in Honduras: – Avoid looking wealthy or like a tourist – Avoid the beaches after dark – Don’t use ATMs at night – Stay away from drugs

It may not exactly be classed as safe, but Honduras shouldn’t be ignored. People here live in pretty supreme poverty –  60%  of the population living in poverty really is  a lot of people.

It pays to   travel smart  in Honduras – like ANYWHERE in the world. And when it comes to the extreme violence of Honduras, those very high figures come from gang violence.  Gangs attacking other gangs. Or gangs attacking Honduran citizens for not paying “war tax”. The likelihood of you getting caught up in all that relies very much on you being somehow related to one of the gangs.

But you won’t be (in a Honduran gang, that is). There’s no reason to get mixed up with a gang in Honduras. Simple as that. Keeping yourself away from any situation to do with them will be a good way to keep yourself pretty much safe. So when it comes to safety  in Honduras, we think you’ll generally be fine, especially in the Bay Islands.  Honduran people are friendly and welcoming.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

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18 Comments

Honduras has become safer over the past year with much of the riffraff joining the caravans to the US. It’s true! But in all fairness, all the cautions outlined here are to be heeded. Having been a resident here for over 2 years now, I’ve deduced that Honduras overall is not hugely different, safety wise, than living near to, or in a large US city. Hondurans are extremely opportunistic, meaning they will leverage ANY opportunity for gain, be it to get ahead in a line or to charging you more than something is worth, to forgetting they borrowed something from you, and it’s that way for everybody. This is dangerously obvious when driving. I think many people mistake the gas pedal for the brake pedal. It seems it’s worth risking your life to get ahead of just one car. And don’t get me started on motorcycles! Although this is a third world country, EVERBODY is in a hurry! The lack of education manifests itself in everything here. Common courtesy is nigh non-existent. Part of the danger here is that people don’t think, or they are indecisive in their actions. They will walk out in front of a car without looking, or pull out into traffic and stop trying to decide when to proceed. They are often seemingly unaware that anyone else is around them. LOL The examples are endless. If you are an impatient person, you will find your time here challenging. Having said these things, I like it here. I prefer living here to living in the US. The US is getting crazy. I live in the mountains in the central part of the country. It’s beautiful, the air is fresh and the people are more laid back. Here, as many have revealed, life here is simpler and people are, in general, happier. As in all things, I am generalizing about the people. There are astute, accomplished and impressive people here just like any other place in the world. Some of them are my friends. I’m still working on my patience. I’m making slow painful progress. 🙂 Did I mention I retired here?

Australian working in rural Honduras….

I’ve been here for 8 months and the place is so safe that my 78 year old mother came out (by herself!) to stay with me and help out whilst my two kids (8 & 9) went to school here. We drove all over the countryside including 5 hours to Copan Ruinas and never had a problem, particularly with police. In fact the police would see I wasn’t a local and had my kids in the car and would always wave me through. Honduras is a refreshing dose of reality after the insanity of the covid madness in the western world.

I just returned from a medical mission in La Ceiba. I felt safe, but we either walked to and from the hospital together, or rode in our bus. We went nowhere alone. The people of Honduras are wonderful. The food is wonderful. We also took the ferry from Roatan to La Ceiba and I would recommend it. But, the cab to the hotel was expensive. And, do get the price before you get in the cab. Roatan was very safe. Make sure all your travel papers are in order, and just be careful. We did not go out alone. I would go back again.

Wow nicely written, and yeah it does paint a fairly picture. And though the stats don’t lie. They also don’t show how the vast majority of that crime is not perpetuated on tourists. For tourists the crime is mainly having your stuff stolen. I lived in Ceiba nearly a year and loved it but I was a very cautious careful traveler. Enjoy

The facts also disagree with El Pirata’s personal anecdotal experiences. Honduras is not just one of the murder capitals of the world, it is THE murder capital of the world. There is no place on Earth more dangerous, where the murder rate per capita is higher, than Honduras. This means inclusive of all school shootings, more people die at the hands of others per capita (per 100,000 people, as a percentage rate), than in Honduras.

That’s not to say some people (like El Pirata) might get along quite well and never witness or be subject to any violence. But statistically speaking, if you want to get murdered by someone else, Honduras is one of the best places you can go.

Is it an issue to cross from Guatamala and travel in honduras all the way to nicaragua driving a motorcycle?

Its not something any of us at TBB have any experience of but I have a buddy who went all the way from Chile upwards on his. His take on it is that border crossings across Latin America can be easy, or they can be a nightmare. You need to have all imaginable relevant paperwork for you and the bike, and also be ready to offer a quick token of appreciation if you sense a border agent is being needlessly difficult.

I am writing a novel and one of the characters emigrates to the US from Honduras. I am American and have never been to Honduras. The farthest south I have been is Costa Rica. Question: is the war taxing by the gangs as bad as it sounds in the media? is war taxing a reason to leave Honduras if you are from there? How does a resident of Honduras avoid the gangs?

I have lived in Honduras as well, and I also have to say that it is not as dangerous as it is portrayed here. True, there are difficult places (the main cities), like anywhere else, especially if we are talking of a major city; but first of all, you have to use common sense, and second, not all places in Honduras are the same. And if you earn their trust, people in Honduras will take care of you too, just be a little sympathetic to them.

I have lived in Honduras for 30 years and still do .Just use your head if somebody is going to rob you just calculate what your life is worth and then give the thief your money.

If your mother tells you something don”t believe it.The rest of the people Don”t tell the truth

Agreed George. A bit of cash or an iPhone is not worth dying for – ever.

What suggestions can you offer for those who particularly want to do photography & videography in Honduras (the ruins at Copan, and other scenic areas)? If you don’t dare be seen with a good camera, how can you manage to accomplish that?

Hi Walden – yeah what we meant is that you should not have your expensive camera out at all times – one needs to be mindful when pulling it out – but at places like Copan and the Bay Islands – you’ll be fine. If you are in a group I’d say walking around nice parts of San Pedro Sula also would be fine.

Ahh, Honduras, such beauty and such beautiful people. But like the author writes, there is also a dark side. Be cautious. I’ve been to Honduras a number of times, and agree with the author on all points. One thing not mentioned was panhandlers: you will stand out as a gringo, so be prepared for them. Just keep walking. If you want to take the chance, pretend to be Danish or something, as the accoster will probably not know any Danish. Of all the travel articles I’ve ever read about Honduras, this one is the most accurate.

This is a very good article on Honduras travel. I have lived or visited here on and off for nearly 20 years. I did start a small eco resort business in the Rio Cangrejal valley near La Ceiba and have lived with the ups and downs that have affected Honduras over the years. Following these common sense suggestions has resulted in a very enjoyable, quiet life both here and everywhere else I have lived! In the 12 years I have been open I have yet to have a security problem reported by any of my guests. This is in common with tourists in general who visit this country. Common sense prevails please.

I moved to Honduras in 1978, then moved to Mexico and other countries in the Middle East and Far East. I returned to Honduras in 1994 and have lived here ever since. I train police and community security committees. I also have worked in every ‘departamento’ state in Honduras except for Olancho, la Mosquitia, and the Islands. ‘El Pirata’ is very mistaken when he states that Honduras is safer than any major American city. According to official government figures last year the murder rate here was 68/100000. The UN figures for approximately the same time were 85/100000. San Pedro figures were 173/100000 and Tegucigalpa’s were 105/100000. Detroit in the USA is one of the most dangerous cities there. It has a murder rate of 27/100000. Again, ‘el Pirata’ is totally wrong when he says that Honduras is safer than any major American city.

I am an Italian-American having lived in Honduras over 12 years. Safer than ANY major U.S. city by far. NO school shootings here, friendliest people I have EVER encountered. There’s good and bad here as is ANYWHERE on the planet. Safer here Than ANY major city in the U.S.A.; guaranteed!

I am honduran, and wow I hate the way it is portrayed in the media, I have lived here my whole life, and completely love it here, there is no place I rather live in. Yes, there are problems here but there are everywhere in the world. I truly love Honduras, the people, the food, the culture, everything. If you want to go the beach I 100% recommend Roatan, the most beautiful and natural beach I have been in.

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What you should know before traveling to Honduras

Mar 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Traveling in Honduras requires a bit of savvy – here's what you need to know © Djavan Rodriguez / Shutterstock

The first time I visited Honduras, I was backpacking through Central America and heard Roatán was a cheap and beautiful place to dive. I planned on a few days. I ended up staying a month, diving every day, twice a day, not wanting to leave. 

Since then, Honduras has called me back countless times: waterfalls and black sand beaches, cloud forests and Maya ruins, colonial towns and even backcountry travel in La Moskitia. 

Sure, Honduras has a tough reputation. But if you keep an open mind and your wits about you, you’ll find the beauty and diversity of a place like no other. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of it.

1. Plan for at least one week

You’ll need a week to take in the highlights of this spectacularly diverse country. Though speedy, this will allow you to experience diving, snorkeling and beach time on the Bay Islands ; white water rafting on the impressive Rio Cangrejal; and the Maya ruins of Copán and its charming cobblestone town. 

With more time, you can explore Honduras’ coastal communities, highland villages, rainforests and even a few volcanoes.

2. Expect some rain

Honduras has two rainy seasons , but even so, the sun almost always makes a daily appearance. (March and April are the only consistently dry months). 

Along the Caribbean coast, on Bay Islands and in La Moskitia, it’s wettest from October to February; in the interior and on the Pacific coast, the rain comes between May and October. 

Hurricanes are rare, though flooding and mudslides in the highlands can shut down roadways. If you’re traveling country-wide, bring a waterproof jacket – chances are you’ll need it somewhere.

3. Pack layers and versatile shoes

The temperature doesn’t vary much by season but is dependent on the elevation. Honduras’ mountainous interior is temperate and even a little chilly in the evenings, while the coastal lowlands are hot and humid. 

Pack with your destination in mind, making sure to bring layers. Even on the coasts, pants and long sleeves will help protect you against mosquitos and keep you warm on buses known for their arctic-cold air conditioning.

Bring good walking shoes or athletic sandals for sightseeing and outdoor adventure, especially ones that perform well in wet conditions. If you’re headed to the coasts or Bay Islands, flip-flops are a must.

4. Bring skin protection and snorkel gear

Bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. While you can buy these items in Honduras, you’ll pay a premium. The same goes for snorkel gear, especially if you’ll be in the water more than a couple of times.

5. Leave valuables at home

Like most places in Latin America, it’s best to leave flashy items at home. Wearing jewelry, fancy watches and designer clothing makes you stand out, which could make you a target for petty thefts.

6. If you want to learn to dive, this the place

The Bay Islands offer some of the most affordable diving in the Western Hemisphere, from certification courses to fun dives. 

Plus, it’s gorgeous. There are countless dive shops on Roatán and Utila, so research and choose one in advance so you don’t waste valuable vacay time on it – look for PADI or NAUI affiliation, small group sizes and good safety records.

Reputable dive shops on Roatán include Native Sons and West End Divers ; in Utila, check out Alton’s Dive Center and Utila Dive Center .  

7. Carry small bills and coins

Cash is king in Honduras, and the smaller the denomination, the better. ATMs are the easiest way to get lempiras; they’re found in all but the smallest of towns, and most don’t charge fees for out-of-network cards (though your own bank may apply a surcharge). 

For safety, only use ATMs during the day and in secure locations like inside a bank or mall, where there are security guards.

Though lempiras are the preferred currency country-wide, US dollars, and sometimes euros, are accepted in well-touristed areas – just be sure they’re in good condition.

8. Credit costs extra

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at many midrange and high-end establishments, but expect a 5% to 10% surcharge. It adds up fast, but can be preferable to carrying large amounts of cash.

9. Prepare to hear (and use) more than Spanish

While Spanish is Honduras’ official language, English is more commonly used on the Bay Islands (which were one-time British colonies). 

Five Indigenous languages are also spoken; Garifuna is the most popular, heard along the north coast in communities inhabited by the like-named Afro-Indigenous people.

10. Lean into long-distance bus travel

The easiest way to get around mainland Honduras is by bus ( Viana Transportes  and  Hedman Alas  are popular ones). Opt for directo (direct with minimal stops) or ejecutivo or lujo (non-stop) service, which are faster, safer coach-style buses; lujo buses also have powerful air-con and reclining seats. 

If you’re pinching lempiras, take parando (stopping) service, refurbished school buses packed with people and packages that stop frequently. 

If you’re traveling on a directo or lujo bus, stock up on treats at the bus station before the trip begins. If you’re taking a parando bus, vendors will step onto the bus to sell homemade snacks and bottled drinks along the way. Either way, you won’t go hungry!

Note: Bus service slows as the day progresses – aim to take an early bus so you don’t get stranded.

11. Say hola, hello or mábuiga

Hondurans are kind, easygoing people, but greetings are important. Whenever you enter a business or meet someone, be sure to say buenos días (good morning), buenas tardes (good afternoon) or buenas noches (good evening).

 If you’re on the Bay Islands, greeting folks in English works; in Garifuna communities, mábuiga (hello) is always well received.

12. Remember to tip

A 10% tip is expected at nicer restaurants, but make sure gratuity or "servicio" hasn’t already been added to the bill. Tips aren’t common at comedores (simple restaurants) or cafes, but they are appreciated. Don’t forget to leave a little something for your hotel cleaners, dive masters and tour guides too.

13. Bargain sparingly

Haggling isn’t much of a sport in Honduras – prices tend to be fixed, even in markets and streetside stands. Some light bargaining is tolerated at family-run hotels and by small-town taxi drivers; keep in mind, though, that those extra lempiras likely mean a lot more to the vendors than to you.

14. Don’t flush your TP

While flush toilets are the norm in Honduras, the plumbing is often antiquated and can clog easily. If there’s a trash bin next to the toilet, place your toilet paper in it.

15. Be cautious in cities

Like most countries, Honduras’ big cities are where most crime occurs. Be especially careful in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa, where gang violence is heightened. Though travelers are rarely targeted, it’s possible to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. 

Stick to daytime sightseeing and walk along busy streets. Don’t take city buses, where there’s sometimes gang activity. In the evenings, take private cabs (instead of colectivos , which are shared with other passengers), even for short distances. And never buy, use, or even be around illicit drugs.

16. Petty theft happens

If a tourist experiences crime in Honduras, it’s often petty theft. Minimize the chance of being targeted by being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like buses or markets, where pickpockets can easily strike. 

Don’t flash cash or valuables. And avoid walking on lonely streets or beaches, especially at night.

17. Don’t drink the tap water

Only drink bottled or filtered water in Honduras. Avoid tap water for brushing your teeth too. No need to worry about ice at restaurants or bars, though - it’s made from purified water at commercial factories.

18. Keep mosquitos at bay

Malaria, dengue and zika, all mosquito-borne illnesses, are present in Honduras, especially along the north coast and Bay Islands. Fortunately, you can protect yourself quite easily by wearing mosquito repellant and sleeping with a mosquito net or air-conditioning. 

It’s also a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants around sunrise and sunset, when mosquitoes are most active. Consider asking your doctor about anti-malarial meds before traveling too.

19. Remember your embassy

If you’re a victim of crime, need medical assistance or legal help, contact your embassy or consulate. Approximately 22 countries, including the US and Canada , have representatives in Honduras who can help you navigate problems or recommend providers.

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Is it safe to travel: Honduras

• 5 minute read

• July 21, 2021

Table of Contents

Travel entry requirements, travelers vaccinated against covid-19, nightly curfew in effect for unvaccinated individuals, other nationwide protocols, where can i go to seek medical assistance in honduras, bay islands.

Honduras conjures scenes of the tropics, with fruit plantations, mist-covered cloud forests, palm-fringed beaches, and exotic wildlife aplenty. The country is fast becoming a destination of choice for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourism advocates. Here, you’ll find ancient Mayan ruins, sprawling national parks, and offshore Caribbean islands with turquoise waters and incredible dive sites. For anyone thinking of taking a trip to Honduras, it’s now open for tourism with a few conditions. Here, we answer the question: “Is it safe to travel to Honduras during the COVID-19 pandemic?” Read on to learn about Honduras’ updated entry restrictions and what you can expect when you arrive.

This article has been updated based on information available as of November 12, 2021 .

⚠️ Due to the evolving nature of the pandemic situation, safety regulations may change without warning. This article should not be treated as legal advice — we recommend that readers check with local authorities for updates on COVID-19 protocols prior to making travel arrangements.

Border reopening: Who can travel to Honduras for leisure?

International tourists can now fly into Honduras. There are just two requirements that must be met to enter the country.

• You will need to complete a pre-check (prechqueo) form online before your travels
• You will need to take a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours before arrival in Honduras and provide proof of your negative result (note: vaccinated travelers may bypass this requirement — see below)

When you arrive, you may be subject to additional COVID-19 testing. Those who enter presenting symptoms or those who test positive may be required to quarantine.

You may be exempt from the COVID-19 testing requirement if you are able to provide proof of having been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Your vaccination must have been completed at least 14 days before arrival.

Around Honduras: General health and safety measures

Honduras is working to make things safer within its borders. The country has been awarded the WTTC Safe Travels Stamp , the certification issued by the World Travel & Tourism Council to help tourists identify destinations that have adopted strict protocols to control COVID-19. From the Mayan ruins of Copan to the famous Bay Islands, travelers will find a high level of government-monitored safety measures in place. Hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and tour operators continue to follow these protocols to ensure a steady recovery in tourism.

Authorities in Honduras have implemented a nightly curfew between 10 pm and 5 am (GMT-6) for anyone unable to present a vaccination certificate. Businesses are required to ask customers to show proof of their vaccination status to allow them entry into establishments during these hours.

The government of Honduras has implemented the following protocols:

• Certain businesses that are allowed to operate, such as banks, supermarkets, shopping malls, and stores, are subject to capacity limits
• These businesses must ensure that all patrons wear face masks on the premises and adhere to social distancing measures
• Social gatherings are limited to 10 people
• Bars and nightclubs remain closed; concerts and fairs are currently prohibited

For more information on the COVID-19 situation in Honduras, including updated case numbers by region, visit the COVID-19 Honduras Official Website .

For domestic travelers in Honduras seeking local medical assistance, the government has provided a map of hospitals by region.

Visiting popular locations

Honduras has an impressive collection of natural and cultural hotspots, two of which are exceptionally popular with travelers. The famous Bay Islands are surrounded by the world’s second-largest coral reef, offering some of the most incredible scuba diving opportunities in the Caribbean, while Copan is the home of the Copan Archaeological Park, which showcases grand sculptures and architecture of the ancient Mayan civilization that once existed between the 5th and 9th centuries. In this section, we cover some examples of safety protocols you can expect during your travels to these two bucket list destinations.

Roatan , the largest and most-developed of Honduras’ Bay Islands, is located in the western Caribbean. Off its shores, you’ll find the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere. The Roatan Tourism Bureau has devised international-standard guidelines for businesses to follow in order to ensure a safe reopening. Businesses that meet these guidelines may register as a COVID-19 Responsible Business and be added to the tourism bureau’s directory .

Guidelines for restaurants on Roatan

• Tables must be at least six feet apart
• Each table should be limited to six people per group
• Social distancing must be maintained in waiting areas and in restrooms
• All restaurants should consider an open-air setting
• Customers should only be served when they are seated at a table, not at the bar or standing
• High-touch surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected regularly
• Contactless payment methods should be the preferred method of transactions

Guidelines for hotels and accommodation on Roatan

• Hotel occupancy should be limited to a maximum of 50 percent
• Temperature checks should be done at check-in
• Non-essential items such as coffee makers and brochures should be removed from guest rooms
• High-touch items and surfaces such as TV controls, doors, and curtains, should be disinfected regularly
• A dedicated disinfection team that specializes in cleaning rooms occupied by suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infected individuals is to be trained and made available

Accommodation providers such as Springwater Villa , Naboo Resort , and The Beach House Roatan are registered as COVID-19 Responsible Businesses.

The ancient Mayan ruins of Copan, located in modern-day western Honduras, are considered one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilization. The easiest way to visit these ancient ruins is through a tour. Look out for tour companies that implement health and safety protocols in line with international standards such as WTTC standards. Examples of these protocols include:

• Reducing participant capacity limits on tours
• Considering mandatory face coverings, safe distancing protocols, or separate transportation where possible while transferring guests between meeting points
• Encouraging guests to book tours online or make cashless transactions if possible
• Ensuring guests handle their own belongings for the duration of the trip
• Mapping out alternate routes and activity areas to implement crowd control and promote physical distancing

Is Honduras on your travel bucket list? Check out our two-minute guide “Why travel to Honduras?” to discover the country’s best highlights! Do other parts of Central America intrigue you as well? We’ve got a guide to El Salvador and a guide to Panama , too! And if you need more Caribbean vibes, check out the best that Jamaica has to offer .

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Post written by: Angela Goh

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Is Honduras Safe to Travel? Our Experience & Safety Tips

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Honduras is a beautiful and extremely underrated country in Central America. Paradisiacal Caribbean islands, well-preserved Mayan ruins, dense rainforest and astounding biodiversity, we fell in love with it! 

But is Honduras safe to travel? So many travellers in Central America skip Honduras completely because of safety concerns. 

With high rates of homicide, violent crime, gangs, drug trafficking and poverty, the warnings about safety in Honduras are more than just overhyped media sensationalism. 

It can be a very dangerous place, and for its citizens, life in Honduras is challenging. If you’re planning to travel here, you’re right to be concerned about your safety. 

But like every country in the world, there are parts of Honduras that are very dangerous. There are also touristy areas that are generally very safe to visit, and I don’t think the entire country should be written off. 

After lots of research and planning, we decided to spend 3 weeks in Honduras as part of our 6 months in Central America. I’m so glad we did because it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. 

I want to share our personal experiences around safety in Honduras to help you decide if visiting is right for you. I can’t definitively say it will or won’t be safe, and this is not a guarantee that bad things won’t happen. All I can do is share a balanced perspective from someone who has been there, so let’s get into it. 

This post is in two parts: 

• General Honduras safety information
• Our experience of safety in Honduras  

Click to jump to the section you’re interested in 👆🏼

Table of Contents

Travel safety in Honduras

Why is honduras considered unsafe .

This isn’t a full history lesson or a deep dive into the society, politics and security situation in Honduras. But here’s a quick crash course…

Like most Central American countries, Honduras is trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty, corruption and violence. It mostly stems from drugs, as the country sits right in the middle of the major drug trafficking route between South America and the USA.

Gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18 control the drug trade, but also wreak havoc on cities and communities, charging ‘protection money’ to businesses and individuals. Aka extortion, reinforcing poverty and keeping marginalised communities stuck and without opportunities. 

The government has traditionally been corrupt, and their former president has just been convicted in the US of being involved with the narco trade. The police, the army, and the government are in bed with organised crime, and the social and judicial systems are weak, ineffective and rife with corruption. 

At many times throughout the past few decades, its major cities San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa have both held the title of ‘the murder capital of the world’ and the country overall has had some of the highest homicide rates. Although, homicide statistics have positively decreased in the past few years. 

Honduras is trapped. A huge percentage of the population lives under the poverty line (many in extreme poverty), and the extortion they have to pay in exchange for their safety keeps them poor. Poverty leads to desperation which leads to violence, and that partly explains why the country is in the situation it is today. 

To read more about the society, security and politics of Honduras, here are some helpful resources: 

• InSight Crime
• Human Rights Watch
• Freedom House
• U.S. News Honduras

Travel advisories for Honduras

It is a good idea to check your home country’s travel advisory for Honduras. They are good resources for up-to-date information on security and regional risks. 

I do think sometimes these can be a bit extreme, but you have to trust that they have intelligence inside Honduras and they should be qualified to provide valuable information. Even if it is occasionally a bit fear-mongering to protect their liability. 

It’s interesting to look at the ratings each country gives to Honduras. Here are some comparisons: 

• Australia : Level 2 – Exercise a High Degree of Caution (with higher levels for certain areas)
• USA : Level 3 – Reconsider Your Need to Travel 
• Canada : Level 2 – Exercise a High Degree of Caution (with higher levels for certain areas)
• UK : No levels, balanced safety advice

We’re Australian, and Honduras does not have a higher safety rating than any other country in Central America. When we visited, every country in the region was at Level 2 – Exercise a High Degree of Caution, with higher ratings for certain areas, which we avoided. This made us feel that Honduras was not any more unsafe than anywhere else we were going, and was part of the reason we decided to go. 

Places that are safe to visit in Honduras

Tourists do visit Honduras. The government is heavily promoting tourism, and Honduras was one of the first countries to recover and exceed pre-pandemic levels of international visitors. 

While the majority of visitors are going to the island of Roatan, and are visiting by cruise ship, there is a generally accepted ‘tourist trail’ for more independent travellers in Honduras. 

Places that are considered ‘touristy’ and ‘safe’ in Honduras are: 

• 🏝️ Roatan : the most popular destination in Honduras and the largest island in the Bay Islands archipelago, Roatan receives all kinds of tourists, from cruise ship passengers to luxury resort lovers and independent travellers. Most tourist activity is concentrated on the western side of the island, and this area is generally safe. 
• 🤿 Utila : another island in the Bay Islands group, Utila is more common with backpackers and budget travellers and has a bit of a party reputation. Besides drinking too much or making the bad choice to take drugs, Utila is considered very safe and we felt completely comfortable here. 
• 🌿 Rio Cangrejal: inland from La Ceiba, the Rio Cangrejal and Pico Bonito National Park area have some great jungle lodges and it’s a popular place for white water rafting. Choose a reputable accommodation provider and they will help with transport and tours too. 
• 🛶 Lago de Yojoa : particularly the small town of Los Naranjos at its northern edge is becoming a common fixture on Honduras itineraries. D&D Brewery and Lodge was opened by an American brewer and has generated a lot of interest in the area, and really put it on the map. It’s a friendly, rural town with tons of great outdoor activities around. 
• 🦜 Copan Ruinas : this charming little town is famous for the Mayan city of Copan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because of this, it’s always received a steady stream of international visitors. It’s a friendly and welcoming region with lots of cultural and nature-based activities and a pretty robust local tourist industry. 

There are of course dozens of other beautiful places to visit in Honduras that are probably very safe. I haven’t travelled the whole country. However, these destinations are the most commonly visited by international travellers and are generally considered to not only be safe while you’re there but also have safe routes to travel to them.

You always need to exercise the usual safety precautions wherever you are. Don’t think these places are automatically free from any risk. They’re considered to have the normal level of risk for any travel destination, so just keep your wits about you and follow all the normal safety steps. 

Places that are not safe for travel in Honduras

It’s easier to list the places that are safe and assume the rest of the country is not. Generally, if you’ve never heard of a place or it doesn’t have some kind of established tourist infrastructure, I wouldn’t take the risk. 

Honduras is not the place to ‘go off the beaten track’ and risk a long trip out of the way for the sake of one beautiful natural sight. I’m all for that kind of travel in most countries, but I wouldn’t be doing it here. 

The whole country has an ‘off the beaten track’ feel because it has so few international tourists, so stick to the more popular destinations and don’t try and be a hero here. 

This list could be 100 times the length, but I wanted to note a few places that you’ve probably heard of because they are large cities or more well-known areas, but I personally wouldn’t visit:

• San Pedo Sula: it’s almost unavoidable that you’ll transit through this major city on the bus or plane, but I wouldn’t hang around. It’s not unsafe everywhere, but it doesn’t really have that many redeeming features, so it’s not worth the risk in my opinion. While homicide rates have dropped, San Pedro has held the title ‘murder capital of the world’ in the past, and there are still very high murder rates in surrounding districts. 
• Tegucigalpa: Honduras’ capital city has a lot of gangs and violence in the barrios on the outskirts of the city. There are a few nice sights around the city, but it doesn’t look amazing enough to make a stop here worthwhile. It’s also out of the way for most normal traveller’s routes, so even though it’s the capital, I wouldn’t bother. Most Hondurans will advise you the same thing. 
• La Ceiba: you will spend some time in La Ceiba, it’s completely unavoidable if you’re visiting the islands or Rio Cangrejal, but I wouldn’t stick around if you can help it. It’s not the worst place, but the city is seedy and pretty sketchy at night. During the day it’s full of travellers transiting on the ferry and bus, so it’s not somewhere to be scared of, but if you can avoid spending the night, I would. 
• La Mosquitia: this beautiful and virtually untouched natural area in the east of the country is very attractive for intrepid travellers and nature lovers, but the security situation is very volatile. The majority of this natural area is located in the Department of Gracias de Dios which is on the Nicaraguan border and a major stop on the drug trafficking route. Most government advisories urge you to avoid this area. If you really want to experience the nature of La Mosquitia or the Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve stick to the western areas and go with a reputable local guide or tour company. 

Travel insurance for Honduras

If you are travelling anywhere, you MUST have travel insurance. This is especially important in a country like Honduras where there are safety risks, and the chances of things going wrong are higher. 

Be sure to check your policy carefully, and make sure it covers travel to countries that have a a higher risk rating on government travel advisories. 

For example, in Australia, our government has a 4-level travel advisory system, with level 4 being ‘Do Not Travel’. Most Australian travel insurers will not provide any cover if you decide to go against this advice and travel to a level 4 country anyway. Although some enforce this for Level 3, so you need to be very sure about what you’re covered for. 

Make sure you check this caveat in your policy and check your government travel ratings. 

15 Honduras travel safety tips

Besides choosing to visit safe destinations and steering clear of major cities, there are a few safety precautions you can take to make your trip to Honduras as safe and stress-free as possible. Some of these tips you should follow anywhere you go in the world, but some are more specific to Honduras. 

• 💰 Be willing to spend extra for safety: backpackers introduce a very negative mentality where it’s ‘cool’ to do things as cheaply as humanly possible. Taking the chicken bus instead of a tourist shuttle or staying somewhere in a sketchy neighbourhood because it’s cheaper. It’s not cool, and believe me, if local Hondurans had access to the money that many of us foreign travellers do, they would not be taking the local bus either. Appreciate and be grateful for the ability to spend a little extra if needed to keep yourself safe. Don’t ever feel you have to do something a certain way because it’s cheap. It’s not like the cost of travel in Honduras is that high anyway!
• 🚐 Choose tourist shuttles where possible: yes it will cost more, but your safety and comfort are worth spending on and these transports are much safer than public buses. Roneey Shuttle is a great company that offers a couple of different routes across Honduras, and into Guatemala and Nicaragua too. 
• 🚍 Use reputable transport companies for long bus trips: if you can’t take a tourist shuttle or you really can’t afford it, opt for proper bus companies for lengthy journeys. These will go from point A to point B on a proper coach, instead of a chicken bus that stops constantly. They usually have better security and screening measures for passengers boarding the bus. Transportes Cristina are a reputable option, as well as Hedman Alas but their operations are inconsistent. 
• 👟 Spread your valuables: if you do end up on a chicken bus or colectivo, which is unavoidable for some routes, spread your valuables out across your bags and body. It’s a good idea to keep some cash or cards stashed in your bra or shoe, so if the bus does happen to get hijacked and you need to hand over a bag, it doesn’t have everything in it. 
• 🌛 Don’t travel at night: always plan to be at your destination before dark. I don’t mean do not leave your room at night, of course in popular tourist destinations you can go out for dinner and wander around in safe areas, but don’t take buses or move between destinations at night. If you are in a big city, I would avoid walking around after dark if you can help it. 
• 👛 Don’t resist robbery: if you do get robbed on the street or your bus is hijacked, just hand over what they want. You can replace any belongings, yes even your passport, but your life is irreplaceable. 
• 🌊 Avoid beaches at night: this is a common theme across all of the Caribbean, avoid wandering along the beach in the dark. They’re generally not well-lit and empty. Stick to busier streets if you do need to walk somewhere at night. 
• 🚗 Use Uber or radio taxis: if you do find yourself in one of the big cities, always use Uber to move around the city. It’s much safer than walking in places like San Pedro Sula or Tegucigalpa. If they don’t have Uber, use a radio taxi that a hotel or business calls for you, not a random taxi off the street. 
• 🤳🏼 Don’t flash your wealth: don’t wear fancy clothes, sunglasses or jewellery, and avoid flashing cash or expensive electronics. In practice, of course, you are going to use your phone, but don’t be wandering around staring at it without any awareness of your surroundings. This is mainly an issue in big cities, but it’s a good habit to be in. If you need to look at the map or check something on your phone, take a minute to sit down and if you’re with a companion, they can keep a lookout. Keep your phone in a zipped bag on your body, not in your back pocket. 
• 💵 Don’t carry more than you need: if you’re transiting between destinations, you’ll obviously have all of your belongings. But if you’re just heading out for the day, you don’t need hundreds of dollars of cash, your passport and all your credit cards. Just take out what you need for that day. 
• 🏧 Use bank-affiliated ATMs: avoid the random third-party ones on the street, they’re often tampered with. If you can choose ATMs that are provided by banks and have either little rooms to enter or are inside a store or bank, they’re the safest options. Only take money out during the day, and if you need to withdraw a big amount, plan to go straight back to your accommodation afterwards to store it securely. 
• 📷 Be careful with your camera: as a photographer, I always wonder how people take any photos while also advising not to flash around electronics. We didn’t visit the big cities, which is where most problems occur, but I was always cautious with my camera. I used it frequently at every destination we visited, but I only pulled it out to take photos when I needed it and then secured it away. I didn’t leave it hanging around my neck. I always got Brayden to watch closely when I was taking photos. But I safely and happily used my camera in Roatan, Utila, Lago de Yojoa and Copan Ruinas. I never use it on public transport or at bus stations though, and if I’m juggling my big backpack too, I would never take it out. 
• 🍻 Don’t drink too much: this applies everywhere, and if you love partying, I won’t say don’t do it. But it’s undeniable that alcohol often equals trouble. Don’t get completely black-out drunk, don’t end up alone at night, and always have a safe means of getting home. 
• 💊 Avoid drugs at all costs: always, always say NO to drugs. Number 1, it’s illegal, and number 2, it’s the quickest way to get into trouble, willingly involving yourself with criminals. Also, why would you want to support the people who are making this beautiful country so dangerous? 
• 🇭🇳 Seek advice from people in the country: there can be a lot of sensationalised media coverage out there, and it’s easy to scare yourself into thinking it’s not safe to visit Honduras. Instead, seek safety advice about the specific places you want to visit, from people who are there or have been recently. Facebook groups like Backpacking Honduras and Backpacking Central America are a good resource, as well as Reddit. Just be prepared for some extreme responses, and use your common sense in interpreting the answers. 

Our perspective on safety in Honduras

A note on the concept of ‘safety’.

Before I get into our experience of safety in Honduras, I think it’s important to touch on what ‘safety’ even is. 

I generally don’t like the question ‘is X country safe?’. It’s an impossible question to answer. Even in the smallest of countries, the security situation can differ from place to place, and things can change extremely quickly. There are also so many factors that makeup ‘safety’. 

But what’s even more important to note, is that safety is totally subjective. 

What I consider to feel safe, might not be what you think is safe. 

Your race, culture, history, ethnicity, previous travel experiences, gender, sexual orientation, travel styles, languages spoken, travel budget and countless other factors all come into play in determining what YOU deem as safe. 

If you’ve never travelled to Latin America before, don’t speak any Spanish and grew up in a developed and traditionally ‘safe’ country, your perspective on whether Honduras is safe or not is going to differ greatly from someone who has, say grown up in Colombia. Who speaks Spanish, has been exposed to security events and societal issues that are considered ‘unsafe’, and has an ingrained understanding of Latin American culture, history and customs. 

To give some context to the rest of this post, you need to understand more about us and our backgrounds, which led us to the conclusions we made on safety in Honduras. 

Brayden and I grew up in Australia, and we travel together as a couple. We have travelled quite extensively, and by the time we reached Honduras, we had spent 8 months in Latin America travelling around Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. 

We speak okay Spanish, and can usually get by with basic conversations about travelling. We’re not fluent, but we feel confident we can ask what we need and understand the answers. 

I spend a lot of time researching and planning for our trips (duh, I’m a travel blogger), so I felt prepared to go to Honduras. 

We’ve been to places many would consider ‘sketchy’ before, but we do not get a kick out of being in places that are hailed as unsafe and have no thrills or desire to put ourselves in uncomfortable situations. 

We are moderate budget travellers, but are not penny-pinching, and would never put our safety and comfort at risk for the sake of a few bucks. We stay in comfortable, secure places and would pay more for secure transport. 

I was definitely a little apprehensive about Honduras before we arrived. I subconsciously noticed I was a lot more aware of my surroundings, wanted to be ultra prepared about every step of our trip and not left in a situation where we didn’t know where we were going, how we were getting from A to B etc. 

Our experience with safety in Honduras

I can NEVER say somewhere is definitively safe or unsafe. This goes for Honduras. 

All I can do is share our experience travelling in Honduras as a couple, to help you make your own determinations on whether it’s a country you would feel safe visiting. 

Honduras is definitely not a safe country overall. 

I do not want to minimize or ignore the serious issues this country faces. The situation for many Hondurans is truly tragic. The violence, gangs, extortion, drug trafficking, poverty and corruption are truly awful, and so many Hondurans are not able to live a safe and fulfilled life. 

Concerns about safety when travelling in Honduras are completely valid, and if you think they don’t apply to you, then you’re being ignorant and naive. 

However, we didn’t experience any situations where we felt unsafe, or even uncomfortable. 

We were in the country for 18 days, we travelled partly via tourist shuttle and partly via local transport, and we had absolutely no issues whatsoever. People were always kind and helpful.

I wasn’t often alone without Brayden, but I didn’t experience any behaviour that indicated I wouldn’t be safe alone. However I know it’s always different if you’re a solo female traveller, and it’s impossible to tell how you would feel being alone until you’re in that situation.

We crossed the border to Honduras by land from Guatemala. We booked a tourist shuttle with Roneey Shuttle from Rio Dulce in Guatemala because we didn’t really feel like navigating 5+ chicken buses. It costs more, but we always feel super safe being in a shuttle with other tourists and a helpful driver. 

I would always recommend using shuttles for long trips in Central America if you can, especially when you’re crossing borders. It’s quicker, easier and safer and although uncomfortable in a small van, you don’t have to do as much thinking or coordinating. You just get in and they take you where you want to go. 

The shuttle drivers are also really helpful when crossing borders, and our entry to Honduras was smooth. The driver told us exactly where to go and what to do, and he helped a few of the passengers who hadn’t done the correct forms in advance. 

The Bay Islands ( Roatan and Utila ) are super touristy and full of foreigners and we had no concerns at all there. We were out and about at night (not partying or clubs, but wandering around in the evenings, having dinner and drinks etc.) and went about our usual travel life with no issues. It didn’t feel any different to islands like Caye Caulker in Belize or beach towns in Mexico. 

The ferry to get to and from the islands was really well organised, and our luggage was scanned as it would be at an airport. We always carry a cutlery set and they picked up on our knife. They eventually let us through after we explained what it was for, but that was comforting to know that any weapons should be picked up on the ferry or flights into the islands. 

On the mainland, we avoided any big cities (Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba). This is where most of the problems occur, and honestly, most Hondurans will tell you there is not much to see there. Why would you risk your safety for a sub-par city when you can experience stunning beaches and pristine nature in other (safer) parts of the country? 

We did safely transit through La Ceiba and San Pedro Sula with no problems. 

The two small towns we visited on the mainland, Lake Yojoa and Copan Ruinas, were so lovely. Although they were less touristy than the islands, no one made us feel like gringo aliens. They receive enough tourists that you don’t stand out like a sore thumb, and the locals are used to seeing foreigners, albeit in small numbers. We were very comfortable in both of these towns. 

We didn’t really venture out at night too much in Lago de Yojoa . Not because we felt we would be unsafe, we just really enjoyed where we were staying at D&D Brewery, and we ate there most nights because it was so nice. 

In Copan Ruinas , we went out for dinner every night and happily and safely wandered around the centre of town. We also walked everywhere during the day to all the sights in and around town with no problems. 

We opted for tourist shuttles to travel between destinations when they were available. This was mainly out of laziness and because I like to use the travel time to work on my laptop (which I would NOT do on a public bus). 

There was a leg of our Honduras itinerary where shuttles didn’t run (Lago de Yojoa – Copan Ruinas), and we had to use chicken buses and colectivos, but they were totally fine. 

We travelled only during the day and set off early in the morning so there was no chance we would be on the bus after dark. We didn’t have any concerns, everyone was helpful and friendly and we were charged correctly for all the fares. 

Although, I do want to note that I have heard many legitimate stories of public buses being hijacked and held up by armed men. Hondurans usually carry a dummy phone and wallet in these situations, and if this happens to you, hand over everything without question. Your life is not worth an iPhone. 

I always try and keep my phone backed up regularly because the only thing I would be really upset about is losing my photos. I can buy a new phone, that’s what travel insurance is for. Always store copies of travel documents, bank cards etc. in the cloud, so if this did happen, the worst-case scenario is a few days of administrative inconvenience. 

We noticed a lot more armed security guards around Honduras. At petrol stations in particular we often had doors opened for us by guards with huge machine guns. In the right hands, I guess it’s not a bad thing, but weapons are far too common in Honduras and I’m sure a lot of people were armed with things we couldn’t see. 

When we left Honduras for our next destination, El Salvador , we booked another shuttle from Copan Ruinas to Santa Ana (with Go Travel El Salvador, also try Gecko Trails) and it was a smooth and safe trip exiting Honduras. 

All in all, we didn’t feel any more or less unsafe than we felt in any other Central American country. 

This is OUR EXPERIENCE only though, and someone who visited 2 days after us could have had a completely different experience. Or maybe someone who was even in the same place, at the same time as us, could have interpreted the situation differently, as unsafe. 

All I can do is share our experience to provide another balanced perspective. It’s up to you to do more research and planning and check current warnings and news. 

Your safety is ultimately in your hands, and you are responsible for making choices that are safe for you. 

GET OUR HONDURAS MINI GUIDE

A 36-page mini guide to Honduras, including our 3-week itinerary plus where to eat, stay and play in 5 must-visit destinations.

So, is Honduras safe to travel? 

As you can see, the answer to this question is complex and multi-faceted. 

My conclusion is that Honduras is not a safe country overall, but it can be safe to travel in the right places for the right travellers. 

If you’re a brand new traveller who has never been anywhere in Latin America, doesn’t speak any Spanish and has no travel experience, I would say Honduras is not safe for you. 

However if you’ve spent some time in this part of the world, have some travel experience under your belt, are well-researched and understand the potential dangers, I think you can have a safe and very enjoyable time in Honduras like we did. 

This country surprised us in so many ways, and it was truly one of our favourite places in Central America. 

But I will never sugarcoat it and say it’s definitively safe. Terrible things happen here every day, and you have to be willing to accept this risk. 

Your safety is your responsibility, so go with your gut and do what’s right for you. 

MORE HONDURAS POSTS

• Backpacking in Honduras: Ultimate Honduras Travel Guide
• The Perfect 3 Week Honduras Itinerary
• Our Honduras Trip Cost: What it Costs to Travel Honduras

Sally Rodrick

Sally Rodrick is the voice behind Sally Sees. She has spent 12 months travelling in Mexico and Central America, and has her sights firmly set on South America. Sally helps thousands of readers discover the magic of Latin America. Sharing detailed guides to inspire and equip them with the knowledge they need to plan their own epic adventures in this incredible part of the world.

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21 things to know before going to Honduras – Safe travel tips for Honduras

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Just like with every international trip, there are things that you end up realizing while you’re traveling. At that point, you kick yourself and wish you had known better to avoid the trouble and heartache that come with traveling to unknown places. That’s why we put together the list of the top 21 things to know before going to Honduras . This article will highlight the top travel advice for Honduras.

We hope these tips will help make your trip more enjoyable. Because truth be told, this is a beautiful country, and more people should be enjoying the amazing things to do in Honduras . So get ready because we’re sure you have a ton of questions, and we have some of the answers.

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For more information, please see our disclaimer here. We take all the efforts necessary to ensure the information included in this post is accurate, correct and current, sometimes, things just change! Travel information like opening hours, business operations and prices may change. If you find anything in this post that is incorrect or outdated, please let me know in the comments so I can update it for other readers. Cheers!

We love helping you plan amazing trips. If you need any of these services, consider booking them through our affiliate links. Without costing you anything extra, you will be helping support us so we can continue to write these blogs for you.

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Table of Contents

Health and safety tips in Honduras

1. is honduras safe country .

“Is Honduras a safe country to visit?” is the question you’ll hear the most when you tell people that’s your next destination. If you Google it, you’ll get tons of articles telling you it’s the murder capital of the world, that it’s not safe, and that it should be avoided. This is only one part of the truth.

It’s true that larger cities tend to be more dangerous, in certain areas, especially if you’re out looking for trouble (i.e. drugs). But for the most part, Honduras is really safe. In our three weeks there, we didn’t once feel scared, or like we were in danger. If you’re smart about your trip, and a careful traveler, you should be fine.

But to be extra safe, don’t wear expensive jewelry or electronics. Don’t flash your money around, and you won’t have any problems. The locals we met were all super kind and generous with us. Often, they gave us amazing tips to make our trip even better. Because nothing beats recommendations from locals!

2. Can you drink the water in Honduras?

Unless you’re going around with a water purification system (like the Lifestraw Go or the Grayl GeoPress we have), don’t drink the water. The locals don’t do it either. If you want to avoid getting sick, avoid the lettuce too, unless you know it’s a good restaurant.

In restaurants, the water they serve is filtered and safe to drink. The ice is also safe for consumption so don’t worry about it.

General travel advice for Honduras

3. is it easy to get around in honduras.

To get from one city to the next, we took the express buses . Some are closer to the chicken buses you see in Central America, that have been patched and repatched, the seats are tight and wonky, but the buses are efficient, cheap and don’t stop as often as the public buses.

Most bus companies will have direct routes to make it from one city to the next, although if you are going from one end of the country to the other side, you may have to switch in San Pedro Sula or Tegucigalpa. For example, when we went from Copan to Tela, we had to stop off in San Pedro.

Some of the better companies you should check out are these three.

• Hedman Alas

Although they have websites, their schedules aren’t always up-to-date. Your best bet is to call them to get their latest info. If not, their Facebook pages are usually better maintained than their website.

4. Are the routes developed in Honduras?

Although bus travel is fairly easy, the routes aren’t in such great shape. In fact, in many parts of the country, the routes have recently been developed or paved, so getting around to certain cities may be a challenge. Ask the locals how long and far it will be to get there and it’ll give you a good idea of what’s possible.

5. Do they only speak Spanish in Honduras?

We’ve always known that speaking many languages is the biggest wealth in the world, and if you speak Spanish, you’ll be golden in Honduras. However, English is widely spoken. Most tuk-tuk or taxi drivers know enough to get you where you need to go. Hotels will have English-speaking staff, especially at reception. And on the islands of Roatan and Utila , almost everyone speaks English.

However, if you speak Spanish, you’ll be able to connect a little more with the locals and get recommendations you wouldn’t get otherwise. So if you can, try to pick up a few words to make getting around easier.

Here are a few sentences to help you out:

• Hola = Hello
• Buenas días = Good morning
• Buenas noches = Good evening
• Cómo estás? = How are you?
• Que bueno! = How wonderful!
• Cuanto cuesta esto? = How much does this cost?
• Dónde está … ? = Where is …?
• La cuenta, por favor = The bill, please
• Quiero ir a … = I want to go to …
• Por favor = Please
• Muchas gracias = Thank you very much

6. Is the local food good in Honduras?

You should not miss out on these delicious meals, especially if you’re vegetarian or vegan . Baleadas are cheap, delicious and nutritious. Thick corn tortillas, filled with refried beans, crema , cheese, and your choice of eggs, meat or plantains. They are a staple of every city we went to. They’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And chances are, you won’t just have one, but at least two!

Then there are pupusas, which are like baleadas, but more like a calzone, as in a closed pocket. They are usually filled with meat, however, so not as vegetarian-friendly.

Things to know what to do in Honduras – your guide for the activities

7. is it cheap to scuba dive in honduras.

Utila is probably the cheapest place in the world to learn to scuba dive. Every other business in Utila is a dive shop (we’re exaggerating, but only slightly) and the island is just off the second largest reef in the world. So it’s no surprise that it’s one of the cheapest places to learn how to scuba dive.

You can get your Open water PADI certification for around $300 USD. Many dive shops even include your accommodations in the price of your certification. So if scuba diving is on your list, make sure you learn here. You might even get lucky and spot a whale shark like we did when we learned to dive in Thailand .

8. Is scuba diving better in Utila or Roatan?

The scuba diving is awesome in both Utila and Roatan. The reefs are protected by the eco-marine park , so they are quite healthy. They are also part of the second-largest coral reef in the world, so if you love to scuba dive, this is the place to do it.

And if you can’t scuba dive (and don’t want to learn how to) snorkeling these reefs is an excellent option too! Make sure you have your own mask and snorkel, as certain places charge upwards of $25 USD to rent the material for the day. If you go twice, you’ll have paid off the cost of buying the gear.

9. Are the Copan Ruins worth visiting?

The Copan Ruins are one of the most spectacular Mayan ruins and are still being excavated. However, because of the lack of tourism in Honduras, they are barely visited.

In fact, many asked us what the best time to go was to avoid the crowds, and our answer was simply ‘anytime!’ because, during our four hours there, we barely saw anyone. And don’t even get us started on the Sepulturas (the area where the nobility used to live), the other site included in the cost of the ticket. NO ONE ever goes there.

So if you’re looking to explore some Mayan ruins without the intense crowds, this is the place to do it. Just make sure you go early, simply because the sun gets hot very quickly!

10. Are there any good national parksin Honduras?

From Pico Bonito to Punta Sal and everything in between. The national parks in Honduras are jewels to be uncovered. Hiking, water rafting, waterfall chasing, canoeing, whatever you want to do, you will find a national park that will satisfy your need for adventure. So if it’s an outdoor adventure you’re looking for, look no further than the national parks in Honduras.

How to travel sustainably in Honduras – Eco-friendly travel advice for Honduras

11. do they recycle in most cities in honduras.

As in most developing countries, recycling is non-existent and trash is burnt. It’s no different in Honduras, except for certain islands (like Roatan), where they do try and recycle. In countries like Honduras, traveling in an eco-friendly way becomes even more important than ever.

Here are a few easy tips for things you can do to travel sustainably in Honduras:

• Avoid plastic bottles by bringing your own water purifying system . Even a reusable water bottle can do the trick as most hotels and restaurants will offer you water refill stations.
• Avoid buying packaged snacks, opting instead for local homemade goods and produce.
• Pick up trash when you see it, especially on beaches.
• If you finish some of your products in plastic bottles (like shampoo or sunscreen), bring them back home with you so you can recycle them there.
• Check out our articles to learn all about how we travel in a more eco-friendly way , or how to reduce the use of single-use plastic .

12. Is there a lot of poverty in Honduras? Can we help?

Around 60% of the Honduran population lives below the poverty line. We were told that on average, local Hondurans make $360 USD per month. Although more often than not, they don’t get paid properly and that amount is closer to $100. Imagine trying to feed a family on that salary. It’s heart-breaking!

An easy way to help the local economy is to support local businesses, buy local products and produce. Instead of staying in large chains and resorts, opt for mom-and-pop-run hotels, B&B ‘s or guesthouses .

Instead of eating at a food chain, go to a local restaurant. Buy your produce from the lady selling it on the street corner or sustainable local companies.

Every little bit helps them more than you can imagine. And when you haggle for the price of something that’s already a good deal, be fair! It may be an extra dollar or two for you, but for them, it’s the difference between eating or not.

However, if you’re looking to volunteer to help out, make sure you don’t do it with orphans or children. Research has shown time and time again that this is a bad solution. Instead, contact the organizations you look into and see if you can help in another way. For example, in Utila , there are a ton of nature and wildlife organizations that could use your help!

13. How can I support small local businesses in Honduras?

From the Roatan Chocolate factory to the Tea and Chocolate Place and the ViaVia hotel and restaurant in Copan , there are a ton of businesses out there trying to change the way things are done in Honduras . They’re more eco-friendly and sustainably run. They’re creating jobs for locals who can then start building a life for themselves and their families. They’re creating a business that will give now and for generations to come.

So when you find businesses like this, support them. Buy their products and tell your friends and family to help if they can. Write a review about them on Tripadvisor to get others to visit as well. It encourages these small businesses to make more important changes and to continue making this world a better place!

14. Can I swim with dolphins in Honduras? Or see other wild animals up close?

Short answer, yes. You can swim with dolphins and see some impressive wild animals. Should you? The answer is NO !

When you’re in Utila , there are a ton of conservation organizations that you can volunteer with, from whale sharks to iguanas. Unfortunately, the other animal tourism you will find, mainly in Roatan, is to be fully avoided. They have kidnapped dolphins and keep them captive so people can swim with them.

They have caged jaguars and pigs so people can take pictures with them. They have monkeys in chains for the perfect selfie… with a tortured and captive animal.

Please avoid this type of animal tourism in Honduras. By not giving these companies your money, you will make them reconsider their ways.

15. Do they have power outages in Honduras?

Let’s not forget that Honduras is a developing country, so they are still trying to figure certain things out. One of those things is how to get power to as many people as possible. In certain places, we had no trouble whatsoever with power outages. However, in a few places, mainly Roatan and Rio Cangrejal, the power went out almost daily.

This shouldn’t discourage you as you won’t be indoors during those times anyway. However, it’s important that you not leave things plugged in while you’re away from your room, or overnight, otherwise a power surge could destroy your valuable electronics.

Also, make sure you check out the power authorities’ Facebook page (like the one in Roatan ) as they’re very good at keeping everyone updated on scheduled outages.

16. Do they also have water shortages in Honduras?

With more and more people on this earth, it’s an understatement to say that certain people in developing countries don’t have access to water. The truth is that there are quite a few families in Honduras that live without water or power. Because this developing country depends heavily on rainwater, the dry season is somewhat brutal.

While we were in Copan , we did go through a few hours where there was no water available. It was nothing that was jarring, However, it’s so important that we help out as much as we can. Here are some tips on how you can help the Honduran community by using less water:

• Take shorter showers. Easy enough!
• Take it a step further and turn the water off while you are lathering or shampooing.
• Bring a reusable water bottle as most hotels and restaurants provide water refill stations
• Eat more vegetarian or vegan meals. Meat uses up so much water and resources before it becomes your meal.
• Skip on changing towels and sheets every day. That way, they don’t have to wash them so often.

We have a ton of articles available on how to be more sustainable, like: – How to be a more eco-friendly traveler – The most sustainable travel products for your next trips – How to go plastic-free (or reduce the amount of plastic in your life) – How to be more sustinable in your everyday life

Things to know about money in Honduras

17. what currency does honduras use.

In most of the country, especially mainland Honduras, Lempiras are used by all businesses. However, they do often accept US dollars.

The case is quite different in Roatan. On the island, they mainly use USD. They still use Lempiras , but it seemed like most restaurants and stores had their prices in USD.

18. Do they accept credit cards in Honduras?

You know the rule: ‘Cash is king!’. Most businesses, especially smaller shops and restaurants only accept cash. Certain hotels will accept credit cards, but they are few and far between.

Ideally, make sure you have cash with you, either in lempiras or USD, as this is how the great majority of businesses operate.

If they do accept a credit card, make sure you find out if they charge an additional fee, as some sneaky restaurants or hotels do. This is an extra fee on top of the conversion rate the credit card company charges. Just know that charging a fee to use a credit card is illegal. Refuse to pay with your card if ever the business does charge.

19. Should I leave a tip in Honduras?

The first thing you should do is to check your bill. Usually, they’ll note ‘ Servicio ’ if they do charge a service charge. In which case, you don’t need to leave a tip, unless your waiter was exceptional. If they were, you should leave an extra tip, but make sure you hand it directly to them. If not, whatever extra tip you leave will be split with the rest of the staff, just like the Servicio charge.

If there is no Servicio being charged, and you were pleased with your service, feel free to leave a tip. Anything above 10% for your waiter is a good amount. Remember that most of the population in Honduras live below the poverty line, so anything you can offer as a tip will go a long way for the staff.

20. Should I have small denominations of money?

If you’ve traveled to countries that have large denominations, you know how hard it is to come by the small change you actually need to conduct daily transactions. Honduras is no different. Most ATMs will give you money in 500 lempiras (roughly $20 USD). The unfortunate thing is that 500 lempira is a lot of money for most small purchases you make.

Ideally, try and break the large bills in larger restaurants, hotels, and shops. Avoid using big bills (100 or 500 Lempiras) at small shops if you can. You might be asking the shop owner to have more than his daily/weekly income on hand to offer a change. This is especially true for small fruit and veggie stands, or little convenience store.

Also, it’ll help you avoid getting scammed as most taxi drivers (either on water or land) will pretend not to have smaller denominations to avoid giving you any change back.

21. Can I exchange lempiras outside of Honduras?

If there’s one thing we never seem to learn is that you should absolutely exchange the local currency to $USD BEFORE you leave a country! This is no exception for Honduras.

We forgot to do it when we left the country and barely found an exchange bureau that accepted to buy our lempiras. And when we found a place that did accept them, they bought it at such a ridiculous price!

Travel advice in Honduras to make your trip more enjoyable

There you have it! These are the travel tips for Honduras we wished we knew before we got there. We didn’t have any safety issues or other types of problems while we were there. As we mentioned, we always felt safe and we really enjoyed our time in Honduras. We highly recommend you visit as well.

We hope that this helps answer a few of the questions you have about traveling safely to Honduras. If you have any other questions, let us know in the comments and it’ll be our pleasure to answer them!

We put a lot of time and effort into the content we create. Please like, comment and share, every action on your part helps us out tremendously and is very much appreciated. 

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Honduras Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Unfortunately, owing to its violent past, it often gets glossed over for more polished Central American hotspots.

However, Honduras today is a much safer country and is popular with intrepid backpackers and expats looking to get off the beaten path. With world-class diving, a cheap cost of living, and incredible weather, Honduras offers some of the best value in the region.

That said, you’ll still need to take precautions and keep your wits about you — especially on the mainland — as crime and gang activity are still common.

This travel guide to Honduras can help you see the country, stay safe, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful and affordable country!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Honduras

Top 5 Things to See and Do in the Honduras

1. Explore the Copán Ruins

These incredible Mayan ruins are located near the border with Guatemala and are one of Honduras’ most popular tourist attractions. Nestled in a lush jungle valley, Copán Ruinas are a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the height of the 5th century when Copán was a powerful capital of the Southern Maya kingdom. But in 738 CE, the king was captured and executed by his rival and archeologists believe that the city was abandoned by 800 CE. Today, the ruins attract tourists for their intricate stelae, tunnels, a hieroglyphic stairway, as well as the geography of the area itself which is filled with diverse wildlife including monkeys, sloths, parrots, and macaws. It takes a couple of days to see the entire site so try not to squeeze your visit into a day trip. There are two main sites: Copán, the main site originally used for nobility, and Las Sepulturas. To get there, head to the town of Copan Ruinas near the border with Guatemala; the ruins are nearby. Bring lots of sunscreen and water. Admission is 370 HNL.

2. Dive the Bay Islands

The Bay Islands, known as “Islas de la Bahía,” are one of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. They are located in the Gulf of Honduras and near the Belize Barrier Reef, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. The Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja archipelagos all offer stunning dive sites with crystal-clear waters and incredible marine life. Roatan is the largest island while Utila is the cheapest, attracting budget divers as the island as it also offers a stunning array of wildlife, including nurse sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and more. Get up close to colorful coral formations or deep dive 2,000 feet into the abyss for bluntnose sixgill shark sightings. Prices start at 870 HNL for one dive or a package of ten dives for 7,405 HNL.

3. Relax at Lake Yojoa

The country’s largest lake is rich in biodiversity with almost 400 bird species and over 100 plant species. This incredible site is a popular fishing spot for locals, a great place to visit a coffee plantation tour, and a fun place to zipline. Or if you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled experience, hike behind the stunning Pulhapanzak waterfall and explore the inside caves with the sound of water pounding around you. For something a bit more peaceful, rent a kayak and spend a few hours paddling around the lake. Or, if you don’t mind small spaces, head into the Caves of Taulabé where you can either explore on your own or hire a spelunking guide if you want to go deep underground. For a nice wander through the lush jungle wetlands, check out Los Naranjos Ecological and Archaeological Park. And if you’re up for a real challenge, hire a guide to climb to the top of Santa Barbara (2,744 meters/9,000 feet).

4. Adventure at Pico Bonito National Park

This sprawling bio-diverse national park is home to lush tropical jungles and moody cloud forests. It’s a haven for hiking, wildlife watching, and ziplining. The Cangrejal River is a fantastic place for white water rafting, with Class I-IV rapids. Or you can go swimming in the river and even jump off the rocks into the water if you feel like it. There are many different hiking trails here too, like the La Roca loop and the El Mapache trail to Bejuco Falls. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, don’t miss it. You can reach the park from La Ceiba or do it as a day trip from nearby regions.

5. Escape to Cayos Cochinos

The archipelago of Cayos Cochinos, made up of Cayo Menor and Cayo Grande, are two coral-abundant islands that offer some of the most postcard-perfect sandy white shorelines in Central America. They offer plentiful diving and snorkeling and the nearby cays are home to the world’s second-largest coral reef system. The only way to reach the Cochino Cays Marine Sanctuary is by boat; you can take a chartered day tour from Roatan and Utila or from La Ceiba. It’s a great place to disconnect and relax.

Other Things to See and Do in the Honduras

1. visit mercado guamilito.

Located in San Pedro Sula, this traditional market is an excellent place to buy Lenca ceramics, high-quality (and reasonably priced) leather, cigars, and silver. There’s also a no-frills food market that locals claim offers the best baleada , a national dish made with flour tortillas, cheese, cream, and fried beans. The market is open daily from 7am-4 pm.

2. Chill out on Utila

Most backpackers make a beeline for the island of Roatan, but if you’re looking for something beyond diving, Utila is a better option. It has a buzzing nightlife, cheap accommodation, beautiful white sand beaches, and even the chance to spot whale sharks. The 45-minute ferry ride from La Ceiba to Utila costs 750 HNL.

3. Visit Parque Nacional Jeannette Kawas

This national park is named after Jeannette Kawas, an environmental activist who fought to protect the area from commercial development and was brutally murdered in 1995. Now, her legacy lives on with this protected area, filled with abundant wildlife including howler monkeys, boa constrictors, and toucans. You’ll also find pristine beaches and untouched coral reefs here. The secluded park is also known as Punta Sal National Park and is just a 30-minute boat ride from Tela, a Caribbean coastal town. Admission is 120 HNL. Day trip prices start around 690 HNL.

4. Go zip lining

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, Honduras has a dozen zip-lining experiences to choose from all around the country (including several on Roatan). Prices vary but expect to pay at least 950-1,085 HNL for a half-day tour. Lunch is usually included.

5. Explore the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve

This heavily-forested area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last remaining tropical rainforests in Central America. Established in 1982, it spans over 5,250 square kilometers (2,027 square miles) and is home to Mayan ruins, ancient petroglyphs, pumas, jaguars, giant ant-eaters, sloths, and over 2,000 indigenous locals. Getting here requires some effort (it’s a 6-hour bus from La Ceiba followed by a short boat ride) but you’ll be rewarded by sweeping vistas and a rare look at indigenous life in the rainforest. You can hire a day guide on arrival (for around 400 HNL) or embark on a multi-day tour up the river for 3,000 HNL. Kayaking day trips start around 940 HNL and crocodile night watching starts around 1200 HNL. Admission to the reserve itself is by donation.

6. Visit Valle de Angeles

This colonial town makes for a good day trip from Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. It’s located 35 minutes away by car and, aside from the beautiful colonial buildings, there’s a lot of affordable handicraft shopping. While you’re here, spend some time relaxing in Parque Central, where you’ll see the historic colonial church or head into La Tigra, the nearby cloud forests that are full of hiking trails (admission is 247 HNL). Don’t forget insect repellent if you do visit the forest!

7. Attend Carnaval de La Ceiba

This is the biggest carnival in Central America. Held every May in La Ceiba, it attracts half a million revelers every year. The celebration is in honor of Saint Isidore the Laborer, the patron saint of the city. For two weeks, throngs of people flock to La Ceiba’s barrios (neighborhoods), who compete to throw the best carnavalito (little carnival) in town. It’s all in anticipation for the main event, the rainbow-filled parade “La Feria de San Isidro”, which takes place along Avenida San Isidro on the 3rd or 4th Saturday of May.

8. Go hiking in Parque Nacional Cusuco

This ethereal cloud forest is nestled into the Merendon mountain range near the border with Guatemala, making it somewhat difficult to access (during the rainy season you’ll need a 4×4). It’s a 2-3-hour drive from San Pedro. There are five stunning hiking trails that cross the cloud and dwarf forests. Expect to see plenty of parrots, toucans, and quetzals here. Unless you have a 4WD vehicle, you’ll need to go with a tour company. Admission is around 250 HNL.

9. See the Roatan Butterfly Garden

Located in Roatan, this indoor garden is home to over 30 species of moths and butterflies, as well as a large collection of boa constrictors, parrots, scarlet macaws, and tropical orchids. It is best to visit during the early morning when the butterflies are most active. Admission is around 358 HNL.

10. Visit the Lancetilla Botanical Garden

Located on the coast in Tela, Honduras’s only botanical garden happens to also be the largest in Latin America. Spanning over 4,100 acres, it boasts thousands of varieties of national and exotic flora and fauna (including a bamboo collection and an orchid collection). There are over 1,500 trees in its arboretum and the garden also has 3,000 acres of virgin rainforest. It’s open 365 days a year and admission is 198 HNL.

Honduras Travel Costs

Hostels – Shared dorms with 4-8 beds cost 370 HNL per night, with private rooms costing anything from 400 to 1,400 HNL. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are generally included. Most hostels also have A/C and hot water.

Wild camping isn’t recommended here due to petty theft, rainstorms, and the sweltering humidity. There are a few campgrounds around the country, though they aren’t any cheaper than staying in a hostel.

Budget hotels – Budget hotels can be found for around 1,000 HNL for a double room. Most of the cheaper hotels include Wi-Fi, however, for a hotel with a kitchen, A/C, and a pool you’ll pay at least 2,000 HNL per night.

Airbnb is available in Honduras but really only found in Tegucigalpa and the tourist spots on the coast. Prices start at 500 HNL for a shared room, 1,000 HNL for a private room, and 2,900 for a villa.

Food – Honduran cuisine leans heavily on fish, soups, beans, rice, and coconut. Popular dishes include guisado (a spicy chicken stew), carne asada (grilled sliced beef), and baleda (cheese and bean tortilla). Generally, you can expect a mix of Spanish, Lenca, and Caribbean influences.

Local meals consisting of rice, beans, and a drink costs around 120 HNL. Set lunch menus at comedores (small local eateries) offer large portions for cheap so stick to them when eating out.

Street food is popular here, with popular favorites being grilled corn, baleadas (a tortilla filled with fried beans, cream, and cheese), pastelitos (a Cuban pastry similar to empanadas), and fruit smoothies (a common breakfast here). These are usually under 50 HNL.

A three-course meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine costs 600 HNL, including a drink. These establishments usually add a 10% service charge to your bill too. Expect a blend of traditional Mayan cuisine (rice, beans, corn, seafood) with touches of Western and Caribbean flair.

A bottle of water is 17 HNL and a latte or cappuccino will set you back 43 HNL. Domestic beer is around 70 HNL.

Backpacking Honduras Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 875 HNL per day, you can stay in a dorm, eat street food for all your meals, take buses to get around, and do some hikes or other free activities like lounging on the beach. If you plan to drink, you’ll need to add around 150 HNL more per day.

On a mid-range budget of 2,400 HNL per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out at local restaurants, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like visiting national parks or diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 5,200 HNL, you can stay in a private villa or nicer hotel, take taxis everywhere, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, and do more tours and activities. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in HNL.

Honduras Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Honduras is very affordable. You’d be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money here unless you are actually trying to. That said, a true budget traveler always looks for ways to save. Here are some money-saving tips to help you:

• Refill your water – The tap water in Honduras is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with a built-in filter. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and free from bacteria. You’ll save money on buying bottled water and save the environment too!
• Know what to pay – When you need to barter for something, talk to your hostel/hotel staff first. Find out what a fair price is so that you can avoid getting overcharged.
• Avoid paying with a credit card – Honduras is a cash-driven society. In places where you can pay with a credit card, expect fees of 5-10%. Pay with cash as often as possible.
• Learn some Spanish – To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being charged tourist prices.
• Travel during the shoulder season – Prices are highest during the dry months (December-April). To avoid crowds and save money, travel during the rainy season or shoulder season. You might get rained on, however, accommodation and activities will be cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Honduras has a small Couchsurfing scene, but if you book early you can likely find a host who can share their insider knowledge and give you a free place to stay.

Where to Stay in Honduras

Honduras has plenty of fun, safe, and social hostels. Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Honduras:

• Roatan Backpackers Hostel (Roatan)
• Palmira Hostel (Tegucigalpa)
• Iguana Azul (Copan Ruinas)
• Jungle River Lodge (La Ceiba)

How to Get Around Honduras

Bus – The cheapest way to get from A to B in Honduras is by bus. For local city journeys, taxis are recommended due to safety issues (petty theft is common on public transportation).

Direct buses for cross-country trips are more expensive but more comfortable and faster than the slower buses that make multiple stops. A direct bus from Tegucigalpa to La Ceiba takes around 6 hours and costs 860-950 HNL. A direct bus from Tegucigalpa to Copan Ruinas takes 9 hours and costs 1,293 HNL.

The multiple-stop buses ( parando ) are slower and can add a few extra hours to your trip. But, if you’re not in a rush, they can save you upwards of 50%.

Taxi – Taxis are plentiful and can be found pretty much everywhere. Fares start at 74 HNL and are charged at 65 HNL per kilometer.

Shared taxis ( colectivos ) are common for popular routes in the bigger cities too and will slash the private rates in half. Negotiate prices prior to getting in the car. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for rates before you arrive so you aren’t ripped off.

When on the islands, water taxis are your best option for getting around. They run from Roatan to West End, and from Coyolito to Isla del Tigre. Shared water taxis cost between 75-100 HNL depending on the route.

Flying – Domestic flights in Honduras are expensive. Connections between the major cities (La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula) to Roatan, run frequently, however, one-way tickets to these key destinations usually cost between 3,000-4,250 HNL each way. If you’re on a budget, avoid flying.

Car rental – Driving in Honduras is not recommended as the roads aren’t that safe (landslides, flooding), there’s heavy traffic, and robberies are common. Avoid renting a car and stick to buses.

When to Go to Honduras

Honduras is, for the most part, a year-round destination. Temperatures hover around the 27-32°C (82-90°F) mark all year. However, the clammy humidity can feel like it’s higher than that during the rainy season (May-November).

Hurricanes are possible from April to October, however, if you’re willing to change your travel plans on a whim due to the weather, you can save a lot of money by visiting during this period. Be aware that booking during las lluvias (the rainy season), means rural areas (and hiking trails) can be harder to access due to storms.

The driest months, from December to April are considered peak season and are the best (albeit most expensive time) to visit. The coastal areas are particularly packed during this period, although ‘busy’ for Honduras is still pretty quiet compared to other popular Latin American destinations. If you’re serious about diving, you’re also going to get the best visibility during this time.

How to Stay Safe in Honduras

Honduras has found it difficult to shrug off its former status as the ‘murder capital of the world.’ Yet the country has improved leaps and bounds in terms of safety and the majority of travelers have no trouble navigating the country safely.

Homicides decreased by over 50% from 2012-2019 and kidnappings declined by 82% from 2013-2019. The majority of crimes happen in the major cities: Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and La Ceiba so I would be extra vigilant in those places, especially at night. (I wouldn’t walk around the capital at night alone.)

Outside of those areas, crime is much less common (especially in the Bay Islands). That being said, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, in busy urban areas, and near bus stops/stations.

Take cabs at night (ideally with other travelers) instead of walking alone and avoid walking down side streets that are not well lit.

Walking around during the daytime is usually trouble-free as long as you keep your valuables out of sight and don’t flash fancy jewelry, phones, or money.

Avoid taking the city bus, where pickpocketing is rife.

Since scams can occur here, read about common travel scams to avoid so you can be prepared.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here as long as they follow the advice above. Additionally, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re visiting during hurricane season (April-October), be sure to check the weather regularly.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Honduras Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Honduras Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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Travel in Honduras – safe or not?

Categories Central America , Honduras , Travel Reflections

Last Updated on January 15, 2024

Travel in Honduras – is it safe or not?

To keep this article relevant, I am regularly updating it with current links to the latest events that may impact travelers’ safety in Honduras. I always recommend to do a quick google search for the towns you’d like to visit and hit the “news” tab, to see what’s been going on there lately.

Update 2023: Honduras introduced a State Of Emergency in order to fight gang crime in late 2022, which was extended in 2023. Read more about the current anti-gang push by the Honduran government here . The last update on this State Of Emergency order was that it in November 2023, it was extended yet again , into 2024.

Update April 2021: In addition to my article below, in which I share my experience traveling around Honduras as a female traveler, I recommend you check out the following articles to help you decide if travel in Honduras is safe at the moment:

• Honduras is poor, violent and unstable. – Washington Post, September 2019
• Crime in Honduras – Wikipedia
• The current travel advisory for Honduras by the U.S. State Department

Update August 2015: To give you a more up-to-date idea on the current situation in Honduras, I recommend also checking out this article on Medium.com, written by a couple that has visited Honduras just recently: ‘ The Murder Capital Of The World That Isn’t ‘. Now on to how we experienced Honduras in early 2011:

During the eight-month leg of our trip through Central America, we crossed paths with countless travelers coming up north as we headed down south, and listened to their tips and advice for places we had yet to visit. The only place that nobody could tell us much about was Honduras. Not on many itineraries, there are two popular Honduras destinations: enthusiastic divers evangelically promote the Bay Islands, where they go to get their diving certificates, and the travelers interested in Maya culture will head to Copan Ruinas, a mere 12 kilometers from the Guatemalan border.

Even though travel in other Central American countries has also been called  unsafe on occasion, like Guatemala or Nicaragua, travelers continue to visit these countries without question. It is the culture of Guatemala and the sand, surf, volcanoes and colonial cities that attract people to Nicaragua. When it comes to Honduras, the hesitation travelers feel to visit Honduras often keeps them from visiting.

When considering the time of our visit (end of 2010 into 2011), this could have been what was causing the distinct lack of international visitors to the country. However, neighboring Guatemala receives on average nearly 1 million visitors annually, while Honduras welcomes only one third of that at, 370,000 visitors per year.

Travel in Honduras can certainly seem unsafe. The first thing that stood out to us was the amount of machine guns displayed publicly. Even in supposedly safe and heavily visited Copan, with visitors ranging from backpackers to retirees, the sheer amount of armed policemen and private security guards on the main square and parked in front of banks was unnerving. If there is this much police presence, we thought, why exactly do they need it? Is it only precautionary? Or should we have taken out a life insurance policy in addition to our travel insurance?

On the Caribbean coast of Honduras we felt safe, and even in the center of San Pedro Sula, a city it is said has suffered from an increase in crime, during the day didn’t feel any different from other big cities. In fact the main bus terminal was a giant shopping mall and felt more developed and travel-friendly than most central city bus terminals.

Tegucigulpa, on the other hand, felt unsafe and shady from the start. We never planned on visiting the capital, as there were no sights we felt we wanted to see, and several areas are considered overly dangerous. Unfortunately, however, after we realized that our New Year’s Day travel plans meant buses were not running directly to the Nicaraguan border, we stood at a bus station studying the guidebook to figure out a hostel for the night. While we frantically flipped the pages of our Footprint, one of the locals came up to us immediately and warned us not to stand with our backpacks there or we would get robbed. We hopped right into a taxi after that.

We made it home before dark, and wouldn’t have wanted to venture out once the sun went down. We heard several gun shots in the evening, always followed by police sirens rushing through the city. The next morning in the light of day, we went out to explore before catching the bus. The parque central was bustling with people, vendors, newspaper stands, and interesting urban art. The Cathedral is impressive, and well-dressed church-goers made the Sunday morning in the city center feel festive. After that, Tegucigulpa felt safer, though the amount of police men with machine guns left us with a strong feeling of unease and unable to fully enjoy our walk.

Would we recommend traveling in Honduras?

While we were in Honduras we did not encounter one single safety issue, however due to the constant police presence (or in spite of it?) we never felt safe.  Just two days after we had left the country, we read about an attack on a mini bus, just like the ones that we traveled in, in which all passengers were shot and killed.

We have always been huge supporters of traveling off the beaten path, and Honduras can certainly offer that to its international visitors. In all the towns we visited in Honduras outside of Copan Ruinas, we were almost the only tourists – in towns like Santa Rosa, Gracias or Lake Yojoa.

We would say yes, Honduras is without a doubt worth visiting, and as long as you stay vigilant and avoid San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa at night , traveling in Honduras is safe. Although we did not visit the Bay Islands ourselves, we have never heard any negative safety stories from people who did go, and when considering the number of tourists who visit the Roatan or Utila, the popular diving island of Honduras are probably the safest and most tourist friendly spots in the country.

Have you been to Honduras ? If so, would you say traveling in Honduras is safe? If you decided to skip a visit there, did safety play a role? We would love to hear your thoughts on whether or not Honduras is safe to visit in the comments below.

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Tuesday 24th of May 2016

Hi, I have been talking to a girl in San Pedro Sula for over a year now and we really like each other. She is heavily involved in her church like I am, and claims the city is safe if you just keep out of bad areas and use common sense. I told my family about wanting to visit her someday, and they started to get all agitated and said I would get killed in a day down there. Do you think the fears are overblown? It sounds to me that gangs only go after each other, not random tourists.

Wednesday 25th of May 2016

That's a tough call - I feel like you'll be fine, but don't hold me responsible if you go and something happens ;-) But in all seriousness, you're right: the violence is gang-related and not directed against tourists. As long as you stay out of the dodgy parts of town, I think you'll be fine! Make sure to read Caroline's Honduras post for a different perspective on San Pedro: http://www.notatree.co.uk/ And did you read the Medium article I linked to? Go see your girl and let me know how it went :)

Monday 2nd of May 2016

I am taking my 2 kids (14 and 18) to Honduras for the Summer. We plan to rent a car and drive from San Pedro Sula to Copan and then from Copan to La Ceiba, where we will take the ferrry and spend a week scuba diving.

We have traveled to Honduras in the past, but have never "traveled" inside the country. Usually just beeline it to Rotan.

I am a bit weary of the car rental. My husband says I am putting our lives at risk.

Any thoughts???

Friday 6th of May 2016

I've just spent a few weeks rufing my motorcycle around Honduras. My last post on my blog us all about my experiences there www.notatree.co.uk. I had a great time. Use common sense and you'll be fine!

Laura - car rental or not.. that's a tough question. I felt pretty safe while traveling there, to be honest, but I am not sure how I'd feel about renting a car with kids.. maybe you should also post your question on a Honduras Tripadvisor forum? Just to get some more opinions.. Enjoy Honduras, Laura!

cesar matute

Monday 27th of July 2015

Hi everyone , I came back to Honduras after leaving in NY for 20 years and its very different from what it was when I was younger, it is very dangerous at night I wouldn't recommend to anybody walking around at night its almost as bad as the Bronx during night time lol. My advice is ... Honduras is for tourists that love nature and nice colonial villages, any of those places meaning the beach , villages , copan ruins , water falls , or places to go bird watching or to do extreme sports its safe but do it during the day . Avoid Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula . And if you can rent a car its very cheap and you can truly be safe . Also I don't mind the guards or the police , not having them around is when people should worry . Anyway I do recommend Honduras , the more visitors we get the better , we can learn a lot from foreigners and the government will do more to keep them safe if we get a nice flow of tourism. Just please don't go out alone at night unless you are driving and are going to a theater or an event where people you know will be. Be friendly , smile , we like Americans and don't be offended if some people smile when they see you , they will probably talk about how tall and white you are lol . We don't mean to offend. Also most people call north Americans gringos but to us is just a nick name its not meat to offend north Americans, you can call us catrachos ? anyway travel safe everyone.

Paul Velasquez

Sunday 26th of July 2015

Hi everyone! Really make me sad to read here the amount of bad opinions about Honduras. Basically for two main reasons. I was born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras Capital, but I had lived mostly of my life in the US. The person that wrote the article use Honduras to make political statements about the presence of guns, near a paranoid level.Reality is that Israel show more presence of guns that Honduras, but nobody is advocating for no visiting Israel. To be impartial, has to be say that North Americans are not used to see armed guards or military on the streets.Saying this is more a subject of impression tha is perceived in a wrong way.In Hispanic America we saw police and soldiers since we're babies.That is not a political issue to us I need to say that never ever in Honduras we have a single case of a former military person "going postal " The presence of more security in Honduras is due to the activity of Mexican drug cartels, shipping drugs to the US. Tourist very seldom are victims of grave crime in Honduras, unless the visitor lack prudence and common sense. A woman or man walking alone in night is a potential target in Honduras and London. I have over 30 years traveling to Honduras and never had a bad experience. I use common sense .The most common crimes against tourists can be theaft in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba. Small towns are safe, as are the Bay Islands. Tegucigalpa is not Paris, but is a city with over 400 year of history, has excellent museums, international cousine, quaint villages near by, excellent views from the city park El Picacho, and friendly people. All tourist can enjoy Honduras with the right attitude and caution.To be fair, I dont fear being shot at a mall or church in Honduras, as I fear here in the USA. Honduras is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, specially because of its people. Don't. let alarmist reports steal from you discover the beauty of the country of Five Stars.

Wednesday 23rd of March 2016

I'm currently in Honduras on my way north, travelling by motorcycle. I fully agree with your comment - Honduras is an incredibly beautiful country and the people are amazing. Definitely my favourite place in Central America. I think it's sad that so many people continue to believe it is not safe here. It is no different to anywhere else in this area of the world. l Use common sense and you'll be fine. If you want to read about our experiences we're writing a ride report on the advrider.com forum http://advrider.com/index.php?threads/out-from-under-the-dome.1089896/

Tuesday 26th of November 2013

I went to Honduras almost twenty yrs ago. I was shocked back then to see all the machine guns and folks guarding banks etc. But I did like the people and spoke fluent Spanish. I went to omoa, tegus, comayaguela, danli, choluteca, campamento, lago yojoa. Also I forgot we went to tela. We couldn't go to copan b c of hurricane warnings. I loved Honduras but there were dangerous parts. La valley de angeles tiene many things for souvenirs. I don't believe is to back again. I understand nowadays the maras. R quite bad. I also went to el Salvador. Frankly I enjoyed the bit of el Salvador better. Though again there were machine guns evwrywhere. I would go back to central America but is check out Guatemala Nicaragua panama . I do not regret going to Honduras however u have to be well aware of your surrpundigs and realize bad things can happen.

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Is Honduras Safe to Travel? Ultimate Guide With Insider Tips

Destinations.

Is it safe to visit Honduras? Many people wonder about this before choosing to visit Honduras. It’s not a simple answer. Traveling in Honduras can be affected by numerous factors and variables, which may differ based on the location, time, situation, and individual.

Honduras is a country known for its abundant cultural and natural treasures. A place to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán , the beautiful Caribbean islands of Roatán and Utila , and many other incredible attractions but the country has gained a certain bad reputation.

It has faced challenges such as political and social unrest, high levels of violence and crime, widespread poverty and corruption, as well as natural disasters and environmental damage. These problems have impacted both the residents and the tourists who visit to experience and appreciate this lovely area.

Table of Contents

Is Honduras Safe?

Yes, Honduras is safe to visit if you stick to the main attractions and follow common sense, like avoiding walking around showing your valuables or with your phone in hand and walking late at night.

Every country in Central America faces its own set of challenges, and Honduras is no exception. Although things happen, they don’t reflect the whole country.

By staying informed, practicing common-sense precautions, and respecting local customs, you can fully appreciate the beauty and warmth that Honduras has to offer.

It can be summarized in these:

• Do enjoy and explore the beauty and the diversity of Honduras and its attractions.
• Do visit and support the local communities and the businesses.
• Do try and taste the local cuisine and the specialties.
• Do learn and appreciate the local history and culture.
• Do have fun and make memories during your trip to Honduras.
• Don’t travel alone or at night, especially in areas known to be dangerous.
• Don’t use or rely on the public transportation systems.
• Don’t drink or use tap water or ice, unless they are boiled or purified.
• Don’t eat or buy street food or raw food, unless they are cooked or peeled.
• Don’t touch or approach any animals, plants, or soil, unless they are safe and harmless.

Planning a Trip to Honduras? Check Out These Helpful Services:

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This is the site I recommend , you can check all the different prices.

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The best way to get around is by car

Check out this site to rent a car and go at your own pace.

The Safety Risks and Challenges for Travelers in Honduras

Crime and violence.

Crime and violence pose significant safety risks and challenges for travelers in Honduras . Honduras is known as one of the riskiest destinations for travelers, given the significant criminal activity and violence present in various regions of the country.

When traveling in Honduras , you should be aware of the potential risks, including robbery, assault, extortion, carjacking, and more.

Criminal activity and violence levels in Honduras can fluctuate based on various factors like the area, time of day, circumstances, and individuals involved.

Certain places and circumstances pose more risks and are best to be avoided by travelers, including:

• In the northern parts of the country, particularly in Cortés, Atlántida, Colón, Yoro, and Olancho departments, drug trafficking and gang activity are more common and violent.
• The main urban areas, like San Pedro Sula , Tegucigalpa, and La Ceiba, have some of the highest crime and homicide rates globally.
• Robberies and assaults are unfortunately common on public transportation systems, particularly buses and taxis.
• In isolated and remote regions, such as rural and mountainous areas, access, communication, and assistance can be limited.
• The border areas, particularly the borders with Guatemala, El Salvador , and Nicaragua, experience frequent smuggling and trafficking due to weak controls.

Natural Disasters and Environmental Hazards

One more thing to watch out for when traveling in Honduras is the possibility of natural disasters and environmental hazards. Honduras is a country prone to different natural disasters that can harm and drawback travel plans.

While getting around in Honduras , you might encounter various like hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, landslides, and volcanoes, though they are less common, it’s something to keep in mind.

Some areas and seasons are more prone and affected by these events, including:

• Exploring the Atlantic coast and the Bay Islands , particularly from June to November, when tropical storms and hurricanes may cause strong winds, heavy rains, storm surges, and flooding.
• On the Pacific coast and in the central regions, particularly during the rainy season from May to October, heavy rains may lead to flash floods, mudslides, and landslides.
• In the western and southern regions, particularly near the border with El Salvador and Nicaragua, seismic and volcanic activity is more active and frequent.

Health and Medical Issues

Honduras faces numerous health and medical challenges that impact the overall well-being and quality of life of its population, so, those same issues can pose an additional safety risk to you while traveling.

When traveling in Honduras , you might encounter various health concerns like diseases, infections, parasites, insects, food poisoning, and water quality problems.

Certain places and circumstances are more susceptible to these problems and ways to avoid them, like:

• In tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in lowlands and coastal areas, diseases and infections spread by mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent and severe.
• In rural and remote areas, particularly in regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation, diseases and infections caused by parasites and bacteria like diarrhea are more common too.
• Food and water quality might also be affected by spoilage and contamination.

Essential Travel Resources

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🎒Pack smarter, not bulky

Check out this vacation packing list , including all the essentials you need to pack when traveling, from travel clothing to backpacks and more.

🏡Where to Stay – Here are Suggestions

This is my favorite place to look for accommodations , it offers different types, a ton of locations, and good price options.

🗺️Get Around Hassle-Free

This one is the perfect option to look for different transportation options between cities, from flights, buses, and taxis to minivans and more.

🛫Find Cheap Flights

Whenever I need to fly, I head to this website for low-cost flights.

Safety by Popular Place to Visit

Honduras has 18 departments , each of which is divided into municipalities. Every area has its unique features, points of interest, and safety concerns.

Here’s a quick safety rundown of the places that are most visited by tourists with more in-depth details and suggestions.

San Pedro Sula

San Pedro Sula is the second-largest city and the economic hub of Honduras, but it also has a reputation for being one of the most violent cities in the world. It is known for its gang violence, drug trade, and extortion activities, leading to regular incidents.

It’s also a common stop for migrants and refugees on their way to the United States, contributing to the social and humanitarian challenges in the city.

But it has to offer a couple of tourist spots like the Anthropology and History Museum, the Central Park, and the Cathedral. However, many visitors see it as a starting point for the Bay Islands or other places.

If you find yourself in San Pedro Sula, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid walking alone or in unfamiliar areas, especially in the downtown, the market, or the bus terminal. If you need to walk, stay on well-lit and busy streets, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Choose a reputable and secure hotel or accommodation, preferably in a safe neighborhood, like Colonia Trejo, Colonia Figueroa, or Colonia Jardines del Valle
• Avoid traveling at night, especially on public transportation or taxis. If you need to take a taxi, use a reputable company or app, or ask your hotel or host to arrange one for you.

La Ceiba is the third-largest city and the main port of Honduras, known as the “entertainment capital” of the country for hosting the famous Carnival of La Ceiba, the largest and most colorful festival in Central America .

It is also a great starting point to explore the Bay Islands, Pico Bonito National Park, and the Cangrejal River. You’ll have the chance to experience various outdoor activities.

La Ceiba is generally considered to be safer and more peaceful compared to San Pedro Sula, although it does have significant crime and security issues, particularly in the downtown area, the beach, and the outskirts.

If you’re planning a trip to La Ceiba, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Follow the same tips as for San Pedro Sula they apply to La Ceiba as well, as the city has similar risks and challenges.
• The beach in La Ceiba isn’t very clean or attractive and might have trash, sewage, or debris. It can get pretty busy with both locals and tourists, especially during Carnival or holidays, and unfortunately, it can be a target for crimes
• It’s a good idea to watch out when you’re exploring Pico Bonito National Park , the Cangrejal River, or other natural spots because there could be some risks like wildlife, insects, plants, or weather.

Tegucigalpa

Tegucigalpa is the biggest city in Honduras, with the highest population. It also serves as the capital and the government’s headquarters. It offers a variety of tourist attractions , including the National Museum, the Basilica of Suyapa, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Central Park.

On the flip side, Tegucigalpa is known for being one of the more challenging cities in the country, facing issues like crime, violence, pollution, and congestion.

If you’re planning a trip to Tegucigalpa , here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Follow the same tips as for San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba, they apply to Tegucigalpa as well, as the city has similar risks.
• Historical and cultural spots might be busy, not well-kept, or attract some unwanted attention. For those interested in exploring historical and cultural sites, consider visiting well-known and secure locations like the National Museum, the Basilica of Suyapa, or the Metropolitan Cathedral.
• Be careful when visiting the nightlife venues, as they may be unsafe, illegal, or unsanitary. If you want to visit the nightlife venues, choose the ones that are more reputable and secure, like the ones in the Colonia Palmira, Colonia Lomas del Guijarro, or Colonia Florencia.

Comayagua is a quaint town located in the Central Region, known for being the former capital and the oldest city in Honduras. Comayagua is home to numerous colonial buildings, churches, and monuments, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the Comayagua Clock, and the San Francisco Church.

It is known for its peaceful and pleasant atmosphere , featuring numerous parks, gardens, and plazas like Central Park, La Merced Park, and Santa Lucia Plaza.

The town is also known for being a safe and peaceful destination in Honduras, with a low crime rate and welcoming locals.

When you’re in Comayagua, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Follow the same tips stated before. They apply to Comayagua as well, although to a lesser extent.
• Remember to show respect and kindness to the locals, as they can be very friendly and welcoming.
• When interacting with locals, it’s important to be respectful, and courteous, and follow their customs and etiquette. This can enhance your experience and prevent any misunderstandings or conflicts.
• Be generous and charitable to the needy, as they may be poor, hungry, or homeless.

Copán is a charming little town located in the Western Region, home to the most significant and breathtaking Maya ruins in Honduras. Copán boasts a captivating history, culture, and art, serving as the capital of a Maya kingdom that thrived from the 5th to the 9th century AD.

Copán is known for being another of the safe and peaceful destinations in Honduras, with a low crime rate and welcoming locals.

Yet, Copán still faces risks and challenges. When you’re in Copán, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Remember to apply the same advice from San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, and Comayagua. Copán faces similar risks and challenges as the town but to a lesser degree.
• The people in Copán are usually friendly and welcoming, ready to provide you with help, tips, or a warm welcome. However, it’s important to show respect and courtesy and to adhere to their customs and etiquette.
• In Copán, there are fewer needy individuals compared to other areas, but they still face challenges and might approach you for help with money, food, or clothing. If you’re interested in supporting those in need, consider being generous and giving what you can to make a positive impact.

Bay Islands

Located off the northern coast of Honduras in the Caribbean Sea, the Bay Islands consist of a group of islands and cays. They are famous for their breathtaking natural beauty, abundant marine life, and varied culture.

The Bay Islands are a popular destination for many tourists annually, drawn by the sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, and are considered one of the safest places for tourists in Honduras.

While the Bay Islands, Roatan and Utila , are a lot safer than the rest of the country, you should practice common sense and be aware. Here are some tips for you to follow:

• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something or someone seems suspicious, shady, or too good to be true, it probably is.
• Avoid walking alone or in dark or isolated areas, especially at night.
• Choose a reputable and certified operator or guide for your water activities, especially if you are doing scuba diving. They will provide you with the proper equipment, training, and supervision.
• Wear appropriate and protective clothing and gear for your water activities as well as for the sun and heat.

Safety Tips and Recommendations for Travelers in Honduras

Before you go.

Before heading to Honduras , make sure to take care of a few things to guarantee a safe and fun trip.

Here are a few ideas for you:

Research: Explore all aspects of Honduras : its culture, history, geography, attractions, challenges, and risks. Make sure to use trustworthy and current sources of information like official websites, and steer clear of biased or outdated sources like sensationalist media, rumors, and stereotypes.

Plan: Make sure to carefully select your destinations, routes, transportation, accommodation, activities, and itinerary. Steer clear of places, times, and situations that are considered risky or troublesome.

Book: It’s a good idea to secure your flights, accommodations, activities, and transportation, with reputable providers. It’s important to verify your bookings and arrangements both before you depart and upon your arrival.

Remember to save copies of your bookings and confirmations, and keep the contact details and addresses of your providers handy.

Pack: Make sure to pack your luggage and documents efficiently, considering the weather, local culture, customs, and regulations in Honduras.

Just pack the things you need and can easily and safely carry. Make sure to bring a first aid kit, flashlight, whistle, and phone charger. Also, remember to mark your luggage and documents, and keep copies and backups of all your important information.

Insure: Make sure you have the right insurance coverage for yourself and your belongings, considering the possible risks and expenses of traveling in Honduras . Make sure to have your policy number and emergency contact information easily accessible.

Don’t forget to get travel insurance for your trip —get coverage for: • Medical emergencies • Stolen or lost goods • Canceled flights and more I’ve been using VISITORS COVERAGE for years and highly recommend it!

Some resources and links to find reliable and updated information on Honduras are:

• The official website of the Tourism Board of Honduras: https://www.honduras.travel/en
• The official website of the embassy or consulate of your country in Honduras: https://www.embassypages.com/honduras
• The travel advisories and alerts issued by your government or other authorities: United States , Canada , United Kingdom.

During Your Stay

Once you arrive in Honduras , there are some things that you should do and avoid during your stay, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Here are some suggestions:

Respect: Please be mindful of the laws, rules, customs, and culture of Honduras and its people. Just follow the instructions and recommendations given by the authorities and the locals. Remember to always be kind, respectful, and approachable when engaging with others.

Communicate: Connect well with the individuals and service providers in Honduras. Explore some common words and phrases in Spanish, the official language of Honduras, or try out translation apps.

Consider getting a local SIM card or a roaming plan for your phone, make sure to have a communication plan and a contact list ready for emergencies or when you need help.

Stay in touch often with your family and friends back home, keeping them informed about your location and activities.

Behave: Make sure to act responsibly and sensibly, and stay mindful of your surroundings and your current situation. Stay alert and watch out for any suspicious or dangerous behavior or individuals.

Avoid showing off your money, jewelry, gadgets, or documents.

Some contact details and links to find help and support in Honduras are:

• Emergency services of Honduras: 911
• The official website of the health system of Honduras: https://www.salud.gob.hn/
• The official website of the police of Honduras: https://www.policianacional.gob.hn/
• The official website of the Fire Department of Honduras: https://www.bomberos.hn/

Is Honduras safe for American tourists?

Yes, but it’s not straightforward to answer, considering that Honduras has both safe and unsafe areas. The level of risk varies depending on factors like your destination, timing, and transportation.

As per the U.S. Department of State , Honduras is under a Level 3 travel advisory, advising travelers to “Reconsider travel”.

Still, it’s worth noting that there are plenty of safe and tourist-friendly spots in Honduras , like Utila, Roatan, Copan, and Tela. These locations boast lower crime rates, improved infrastructure, and a wider range of tourist services compared to other areas in the country.

They also have a solid local police and security guard presence to assist you in case of any issues. Plenty of travelers have checked out these spots and had a great time with no big issues.

Is Roatan Honduras safe for cruise passengers?

Yes, Roatan is a safe place to visit as long as you follow some common-sense tips and precautions. Roatan is generally a peaceful and friendly place, with a low crime rate and a stable political situation.

However, like any tourist destination, it has some risks and challenges that you should be aware of, like its tropical climate, which means you may encounter mosquitoes, sunburn, or dehydration.

The public transportation system is quite limited, including buses, taxis, and water taxis. Avoid using unlicensed or unofficial taxis because they might overcharge you or take you to unsafe areas, and make sure to agree on your way back beforehand.

 Is Honduras safe for solo travelers, especially women?

Yes, just stick to the main touristic areas and keep in mind that traveling solo in Honduras, especially for women, can pose various risks and challenges like harassment, discrimination, or violence.

Nevertheless, solo travelers, including women, can still visit Honduras and have a fulfilling and pleasant experience.

Do I need a visa to travel to Honduras?

It varies based on your nationality and the reason and length of your journey. Most people from countries in the Americas and Europe can visit Honduras for tourism or business for up to 90 days without needing a visa.

It’s a good idea to verify the visa requirements and entry conditions for your particular situation before heading to Honduras.

Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission for any purchases made through the links. Your trust is important to us, and we ensure that all products or services we recommend meet or exceed our editorial standards .

Last Updated on February 25, 2024

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Watch CBS News

Hurricane Beryl maps show path and landfall forecast

By Cara Tabachnick

Updated on: July 1, 2024 / 11:48 AM EDT / CBS News

Hurricane Beryl made landfall Monday as an  "extremely dangerous" Category 4  on the Caribbean island of Carriacou in Grenada as it swirled through he southeast Caribbean, where it was forecast to bring fierce winds and torrential rains.

"Life-threatening winds and dangerous storm surge are occurring," the National Hurricane Center warned.

Beryl became the  first hurricane  of the 2024  Atlantic hurricane season  on Saturday, and rapidly strengthened. It first reached Category 4 on Sunday, wavering back to Category 3 before returning to Category 4 on Monday. It is the first major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles on record for June, according to Philip Klotzbach, Colorado State University hurricane researcher.

Brian McNoldy, a tropical meteorology researcher for the University of Miami, told the Associated Press that warm waters are fueling Beryl, with ocean heat content in the deep Atlantic the highest on record for this time of year.

Beryl has set records as the first June hurricane ever to hit Category 4 , the farthest east a storm has ever hit Category 4, and the first storm before September to go from tropical depression to major hurricane in under 48 hours, CBS News weather producer David Parkinson reported.

Where is Hurricane Beryl headed? 

As of 11 a.m. ET Monday, Beryl was located about 35 miles northeast of Grenada with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph and was moving west-northwest at 20 mph.

Hurricane warnings are in effect in Barbados, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Tobago. A hurricane watch was in effect for Jamaica. A tropical storm warning was issued for Martinique, Trinidad and St. Lucia, while a tropical storm watch was issued for Dominica, the south coast of the Dominican Republic from Punta Palenque westward and the south coast of Haiti from the Dominican border to Anse d'Hainault. 

Beryl is expected to pass just south of Barbados and move across the Windward Islands — which includes Grenada, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Dominica and St. Vincent —  by Monday, according to the National Hurricane Center, bringing "life-threatening winds and storm surge."

Where will Hurricane Beryl bring rain and flooding? 

Beryl is forecast to drop anywhere from 3 to 6 inches of rain in Barbados and the Windward Islands, and bring a storm surge of 6 to 9 feet above normal tide levels.

St. Vincent is expected to get up to 6 inches of rainfall. Martinique, Grenada, and Dominica are expected to receive 2 to 4 inches of rain. Beryl  is expected  to bring life-threatening winds and a storm surge to the Windward Islands starting Sunday night.   

Beryl is expected to remain south of Jamaica. It is then likely to bring torrential rain to Mexico's Yucatán, and then depending on its path either reemerge over the Bay of Campeche and moves towards Texas or die out with catastrophic inland flooding in Mexico next weekend. 

— David Parkinson and the Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

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Beryl's center was forecast to move across the windward islands early monday..

Editor's Note: This page is a summary of news on Hurricane Beryl for Sunday, June 30. For the latest news updates on the Hurricane Beryl , view our live storm updates file .

Beryl — the first hurricane of the 2024 season — intensified Sunday into a high-octane, "extremely dangerous" Category 4 storm packing life-threatening winds as it barreled toward the Caribbean.

Beryl is about 150 miles southeast of Barbados and 245 miles east-southeast of St. Vincent, with maximum sustained winds at 130 mph, the National Hurricane Center said at 11 p.m. But fluctuations in strength are possible over the next day or so. 

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 30 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds extend out up to 115 miles from the center, according to the center's update. Tropical storm watches were posted for Dominica and the southern coasts of the Dominican Republic and Haiti. A tropical storm warning was also issued for Martinique and Trinidad.

As Beryl crosses the Windward Islands on Monday, potentially catastrophic wind damage is expected where the eyewall moves through, with the highest risks of the core in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada, the hurricane center added."Wind speeds atop and on the windward sides of hills and mountains are often up to 30 percent stronger than the near-surface winds" indicated in advisories, "and in some elevated locations could be even greater," the hurricane center said.

Hurricane warnings, meaning hurricane conditions are expected in the area, were in effect Sunday for Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadine Islands, Grenada, and Tobago.

Beryl could bring 1 to 4 inches of rain to southeastern Puerto Rico on Monday night and into Tuesday. 

Beryl is the first hurricane of what is expected to be an extraordinary 2024 season . Tropical Storm Alberto , the first named storm of the season, left at least four people dead in Mexico after it made landfall on June 20. Beryl underwent rapid intensification: It was declared a tropical depression and then a tropical storm on Friday, and by Sunday was a major hurricane.

By Thursday night, the hurricane center named the third tropical storm of the season. Tropical Storm Chris developed in the Bay of Campeche and located about 105 miles southeast of Tuxpan, Mexico, by 11 p.m.

Fueled by warm water: Hurricane Beryl, super-charged by warm seas, stuns experts

Track Beryl's path: Tropical storm Beryl expected to become first Atlantic hurricane of 2024 season

The third earliest Atlantic major hurricane on record

As Beryl strengthened, it's setting several records, according to Phil Klotzbach, a senior research scientist at Colorado State University. They include:

∎ The first June major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles on record.

∎ The third earliest Atlantic major hurricane on record, trailing Alma on June 8, 1966, and Audrey on June 27, 1957.

∎ Beryl is now the earliest Category 4 hurricane on record. The current record was held by Hurricane Dennis which became a Category 4 on July 8, 2005.

See Beryl's eye: Hurricane Beryl's eye on NOAA satellite

Will Hurricane Beryl hit the US?

It's too soon to determine the path and strength of Beryl when the storm gets to the western half of the Caribbean later this week − and whether it could impact the U.S. Gulf Coast. The hurricane center expects Beryl to remain a hurricane as it reaches Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on Friday.

But forecasters warned U.S. residents to stay vigilant. "At this point, the most likely scenario is for the storm to move westward into Mexico; however, it is very important to note that if the high pressure across the Southeast weakens, that can allow the storm to move farther north and potentially directly impact the Gulf Coast,"  AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Forecaster Alex DaSilva said.

Tropical Storm Chris

On Sunday afternoon, Tropical Depression 3 formed in the southern Gulf of Mexico about 185 miles east-southeast of Tuxpan, Mexico, with sustained winds of 35 mph. It became the season's third tropical storm by late Sunday and had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph.

The storm was expected to weaken and dissipate as it moves inland over Mexico on Monday. A tropical storm warning was in effect for Cabo Rojo to Puerto Veracruz.

"Chris will begin to weaken after landfall and will likely dissipate later on Monday," the National Hurricane Center said in its 11 p.m. advisory.

According to the hurricane center, the system is expected to cause heavy rainfall over parts of eastern Mexico into Monday, which could produce flooding. It's forecast to produce rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches with maximum rainfall totals around 12 inches possible across the higher terrain.

Mudslides were also possible in the higher terrain of the Mexican states of Guanajuato, Queretaro, and San Luis Potosi.

"Due to this threat, the government of Mexico has issued tropical storm warnings along parts of the Mexico gulf coast," AccuWeather said. "Heavy rain and gusty winds have already begun moving into Mexico as of Sunday afternoon and will continue through Monday."

What is rapid intensification?

Rapid intensification is a process in which a storm undergoes accelerated growth: The phenomenon is typically defined to be a tropical cyclone (whether a tropical storm or hurricane) intensifying by at least 35 mph in a 24-hour period.

By 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Beryl had become a Category 4 hurricane, with winds of 130 mph. That's a gain of 95 mph in just 42.5 hours.

"Rapid intensification occurs when a tropical storm or hurricane encounters an extremely conducive environment," Klotzbach said . "Typically, this environment consists of very warm water, low vertical wind shear and high levels of midlevel moisture."

Life-threatening storm surge, flooding likely

Swells from Hurricane Beryl should begin reaching the Windward and southern Leeward Islands by late Sunday and are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip currents. The storm surge as the hurricane arrives on Monday may reach 6 to 9 feet above normal tide levels and bring "large, destructive waves" to the coast, the hurricane center said.

Rainfall could cause flooding and is expected to dump 3 to 6 inches in Barbados and the Windward Islands Sunday night into Monday. Up to 10 inches are possible in isolated locations, especially in the Grenadines. 

The hurricane center urged anyone living in the central and western Caribbean to monitor the storm's progression given the uncertainty of the forecast.

What are the Windward Islands?

The Windward Islands are a group of Caribbean islands in the eastern part of the Caribbean Sea. They include Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago are sometimes included in the group.

They are called "windward" − which means upward from a given point − because they are more windward to arriving ships than the Leeward Islands.

What is the outlook for the 2024 hurricane season?

Federal forecasters have predicted a hurricane season unlike any other, with as many as 25 named storms possible.

It is the most storms the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has ever predicted in a preseason outlook. "All the ingredients are in place for an active season," National Weather Service director Ken Graham said in May.

NOAA director Rick Spinrad said the Atlantic hurricane season is shaping up to be "extraordinary" − an 85% chance for an above-average year. "The forecast … is the highest NOAA has ever issued for the May outlook," he said.

See the path of Hurricane Beryl

Current weather advisories in the u.s..

Contributing: Doyle Rice and Mike Snyder, USA TODAY.

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• National Media Release

Migrant taken to the hospital for pneumonia, dies from a head injury incurred at the hospital after being released from CBP custody

On March 16, 2024, at approximately 5:23 a.m., a Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) Trooper encountered and arrested an undocumented female migrant, a citizen of Honduras, near the Travis D. Kelly Hydroelectric Water Plant, located approximately 8.75 miles northwest of Eagle Pass, Texas. At approximately 6:38 a.m., TXDPS Troopers transported the woman to the State of Texas’ Val Verde Processing Center (VVPC) in Del Rio, Texas. At approximately 7:50 a.m., the woman advised VVPC intake staff that she had attempted suicide three months prior by stopping her medication. During processing, intake staff requested emergency medical services (EMS) because the woman was having trouble breathing. An on-site emergency medical technician (EMT) screened the woman, then cleared her and placed her on direct observation at 8:15 a.m. At approximately 4:02 p.m., the woman appeared before a Maverick County magistrate and was subsequently charged with criminal trespassing. The Maverick County magistrate determined there was reasonable cause to believe that the woman had a mental illness or was a person with an intellectual disability and ordered a service provider with VVPC to provide mental health or intellectual and developmental disability services to her. On March 17, 2024, at approximately 6 a.m., the woman was transferred to the Lopez State Jail in Edinburg, Texas, pending criminal state charges. On March 26, 2024, at approximately 5 p.m., the woman was released from the Lopez State Jail and transferred to the Jim Hogg Temporary Processing Center (JHPC), in Hebbronville, Texas which is also operated by the State of Texas. At approximately 6:54 p.m., JHPC advised U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) Hebbronville Station personnel that the state charges were dismissed; therefore, she was being released and would be turned over to Border Patrol. JHPC reportedly advised Border Patrol personnel that the woman had a pre-existing heart condition but was not currently experiencing any issues. At approximately 7:35 p.m., Border Patrol agents arrived at JHPC and determined the woman was an undocumented noncitizen. Agents took custody of the woman and transported her to the Hebbronville Station, where they arrived approximately four minutes later. At approximately 8:15 p.m., during intake procedures, CBP contract medical staff conducted a medical assessment of the woman. During the assessment, the medical staff determined that she needed advanced medical care because of low oxygen, persistent cough, possible pneumonia, and congestive heart failure. At approximately 8:23 p.m., a Supervisory Border Patrol agent requested EMS via telephone. At approximately 8:29 p.m., Skyline EMS arrived at the Hebbronville Station and prepared the woman for transportation. At approximately 8:45 p.m., Skyline EMS transported the woman to Laredo Medical Center while Border Patrol personnel followed in a marked vehicle. At approximately 9:42 p.m., the woman arrived at the hospital and Border Patrol personnel established hospital watch. On March 27, 2024, at approximately 9:10 a.m., while under treatment, the woman was diagnosed with pneumonia and at approximately 10:50 a.m., was admitted to the hospital and assigned a room. On March 28, 2024, at approximately 4:32 p.m., agents served the woman with a Notice to Appear/Order of Release and released her from CBP custody. The woman remained at the hospital pending additional treatment. On April 4, 2024, the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office (BCMEO) notified Border Patrol personnel assigned to the Hebbronville Station that, while being treated at the Brooks Army Medical Center (BAMC), the woman had died on April 3, 2024, at 3:07 p.m. Hebbronville Station personnel notified Special Agents from CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), who responded to the incident. After reviewing the medical documentation from LMC and BAMC, OPR special agents discovered that on March 30, 2024, at approximately 11:00 p.m., the woman had reportedly fallen while at LMC, which resulted in a subdural hematoma (SDH). After the fall, LMC medical staff monitored her, and on the morning of April 1, 2024, the woman had a change in mental status and required intubation. She was subsequently transferred to BAMC in San Antonio, Texas, for advanced medical care. Two days later the woman died. On April 10, 2024, at approximately 5:20 p.m., a BCMEO Investigator notified agents from the OPR Laredo Field Office that an autopsy was performed on April 6, 2024. The manner and cause of death is pending. BCMEO will give the results of the autopsy when they are complete. The BCMEO is investigating this incident and CBP OPR is reviewing it. The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General has been notified.

CBP OPR identified information and timeline based on its preliminary review of radio traffic, medical documentation from CBP and local medical facilities, and statements of involved personnel from CBP, TXDPS, and BCMEO. This notification is being issued to the public pursuant to the CBP policy regarding Notification and Review Procedures for Certain Deaths and Deaths in Custody and the Department of Homeland Security FY 2021 Appropriation (H. Rept. 116-458) reporting requirements related to CBP-involved deaths.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The 65,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air, and on the seas. We facilitate safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.

Honduras ex-president sentenced to 45 years for helping drug traffickers

Juan Orlando Hernandez says he was ‘wrongly accused’ at sentencing hearing for conviction on drugs and weapons charges.

Juan Orlando Hernandez , the former president of Honduras once seen as an important US ally with tough-on-crime politics, has been sentenced to 45 years in prison for his conviction on drugs and weapons charges.

A Manhattan jury in March found Hernandez, 55, guilty of accepting millions of dollars in bribes to protect United States-bound cocaine shipments belonging to traffickers he once publicly proclaimed to combat.

Keep reading

Hondurans cheer a rare win over their corrupt politicians, far from home, ‘divine justice’: how hondurans are reacting to an ex-president’s us trial, honduran president juan orlando hernandez guilty in drug trafficking case.

US District Judge Kevin Castel passed down the sentence in a Manhattan courtroom on Wednesday.

“I am innocent,” the 55-year-old Hernandez, who led the Central American nation from 2014 until 2022, said at his sentencing. “I was wrongly and unjustly accused.”

Hondurans at home and abroad had cheered the conviction, celebrating it as a rare instance of accountability for corruption and deceit by a member of the country’s ruling class.

In March, the jury found that the former leader, often known by his initials JOH, had taken millions of dollars in bribes to shield large shipments of cocaine bound for the US.

Prosecutors had asked for a life sentence, arguing that it would send a firm message to other politicians who use their power to protect powerful criminal groups.

“Without corrupt politicians like the defendant, the kind of large-scale, international drug trafficking at issue in this case, and the rampant drug-related violence that follows, is difficult if not impossible,” prosecutors wrote on Monday.

During a two-week trial, prosecutors said Hernandez used drug money to bribe officials and manipulate voting results during Honduras’s 2013 and 2017 presidential elections. Several convicted traffickers testified they bribed Hernandez.

Testifying in his own defence, Hernandez denied taking bribes from drug cartels.

His lawyers, meanwhile, accused the convicted traffickers of being out for revenge over Hernandez’s anti-drug policies.

JOH’s brother Tony Hernandez was sentenced to life in prison in the US in 2021 on drug charges.

Family of Afro Indigenous activist in immigration detention worries he may be deported back to danger

Erlin Centeno's family has feared being permanently separated since the father of three children was detained four months ago following a routine check-in with immigration authorities in New York City.

The lives of Centeno and his family were endangered after four of his cousins were killed and he started receiving many letters and text messages containing death threats, according to court transcripts obtained by NBC News of his testimony to an immigration judge. The threats were a result of the work he and his cousins did defending the territorial rights of Afro Indigenous communities in his homeland known as Garifuna, according to Centeno and his wife.

The emotional toll of Centeno’s detention was weighing heavily on his wife, Trini Merced Palacios, as she sat down with NBC News on June 13 to open up about her husband’s immigration plight for the first time.

“I feel very bad every time I talk about that,” the 35-year-old woman said in Spanish. Tears streamed down her face as she held her restless 2-year-old daughter, Genesis, who had not been able to sleep well since her father’s detention, according to Palacios.

Sometimes, when Genesis seems to be asleep, she suddenly wakes up, calling “papá, papá,” the mother said. “So, I tell her, ‘You’ll see Dad soon.’”

But Palacios doesn’t actually know if or when the family will be reunited.

“My fear is that they will deport him to Honduras, where he had death threats,” she said.

Centeno’s detention is igniting serious concerns from his loved ones and attorneys that he may face the same dangers he escaped from when he fled Honduras with his family in the summer of 2022 and was allowed to enter the United States in an effort to seek asylum.

However, Centeno is ineligible for asylum because of a previous deportation order. Because of this, he must undergo a different type of immigration proceeding that is more complicated, requiring him to meet a higher standard to convince immigration authorities that he will likely be harmed if deported to Honduras.

Under U.S. law, it is illegal to deport someone to their country of origin if their life would be endangered. If the immigration proceeding is successful, the person wouldn't get asylum but would be allowed to stay in the U.S. without being deported.

Centeno wasn't able to convince immigration authorities of his fear-based claims. Now, his family and attorneys have very limited options but they haven’t lost faith that they can try to keep him safe in the U.S.

'They didn't feel safe'

The Garifuna people are descendants of enslaved Africans, and also Arawak and Caribbean Indigenous communities who have historically been displaced from their ancestral lands. Many of them remain in Guatemala, Nicaragua and Belize — but most of them are in Honduras , where they face high levels of violence, racism and extreme poverty, according to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR).

Centeno started advocating for Garifuna rights in 2020, working with the Black Fraternal Organization of Honduras , one of the most prominent Garifuna nonprofits in Honduras. According to an IACHR report, their members have long been harassed, threatened, beaten, kidnapped and killed amid land grabbing and territorial disputes involving industries with high economic interests in the region — which has intensified as local investors have sought to develop the area — as well as local gangs fighting over territories.

The IACHR has documented the cases of dozens of Garifuna activists who have vanished or been killed since 2019 . Since at least 2015, the commission has repeatedly condemned Honduras for violating the ancestral property rights of the Garifuna people.

Palacios said her husband’s cousins are among those killed and is convinced that Centeno would have been next if the family hadn’t come to the U.S. to seek safety.

"The United States has always just been framed as a land of opportunity and safety, and they didn't feel safe in any other places nearby in Central America and they don’t really have family anywhere else," said Deisy Flores, a staff attorney at Make The Road New York , who is involved in Centeno's immigration case.

'They took a part of me'

After the family's arrival in the U.S. two years ago, Centeno had been regularly attending routine check-in appointments with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in New York City as he was trying to find a way to remain in the country legally.

Settled in New York City, Centeno had been working in construction jobs and attending a church in New Jersey. The family's goal was to eventually move out of the migrant shelter in which they have been living.

Palacios and their three children accompanied Centeno to one of those appointments Feb. 14. She remembers they barely slept the night before and didn't even have breakfast that morning as they rushed to the ICE office, commuting through heavy sleet and bitter cold temperatures to make it on time.

As the hours went by and the waiting room emptied out, Palacios started feeling a sinking fear over the possibility that her husband would be detained. After all, the appointments normally take about an hour, she said.

"Those people grabbed my husband and from there, and I never saw him again,” Palacios said. “I felt like they took a part of me.”

“Erlin for me, he is a good person,” she said. “He is kind and loving to me.”

Centeno was taken into custody and sent to a detention center in rural Pennsylvania, more than a hundred miles away from his family and legal team.

Palacios said she feels like "I have no one in the world" since Centeno was detained. The husband and wife have known each other their entire lives, starting out as best friends in Honduras before becoming romantic partners, ending up in marriage and family.

Neither Palacios nor Centeno's legal team at Make The Road New York know exactly why ICE decided to detain him that day.

Harold Solis, the main attorney representing Centeno in his immigration case, said nothing had changed in the man's life that otherwise may have made him a priority for ICE to detain him.

"He had been complying with his ICE check-in requirements when he was suddenly separated from his family," Solis said.

ICE did not respond to questions from NBC News asking why Centeno was detained Feb. 14.

An uphill battle to remain in the U.S.

Two weeks after his detention, Centeno had a reasonable fear interview with an asylum officer who determined that his claims lacked credibility. But his lawyers said the process was riddled with irregularities, including the fact that Centeno's attorney was not notified about the interview, as well as issues with Spanish translation that made Centeno very frustrated.

These issues resulted in misunderstandings, leading to his interview being cut short, not even discussing his work as a Garifuna activist and the risks that come with that, according to Flores and Solis.

An ICE spokesperson did not respond to questions about the reasonable fear interview process, only telling NBC News in an email, “We are extremely limited to what we can say regarding asylum claims.”

A week later, Centeno and his attorney appeared before an immigration judge to review the asylum officer's determination. His attorney brought up the irregularities and Centeno was able to elaborate on his fears based on his activism, also adding that his cousins had already been killed or kidnapped for the same reason, transcripts of the hearing obtained by NBC News show.

The immigration judge agreed with the asylum officer and found Centeno's testimony not credible.

This outcome is common among people, who like Centeno, need to go through a reasonable fear interview to remain in the U.S. legally . Data from the U.S. Executive Office for Immigration Review  shows that most immigration judges will uphold the no reasonable fear finding of the asylum officer.

Reasonable fear immigration proceedings are "relatively rare," said Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, policy director at the American Immigration Council. Only a few thousand immigrants go through the procedure every year.

It is specifically designed for people who have expressed a fear of returning to their home countries, but have a previous deportation order or have been convicted of an aggravated felony, said Lauren Reiff, associate director of the immigrant protection unit at the New York Legal Assistance Group, a nonprofit providing free legal services.

This is a higher standard to have to prove than an asylum-seeker who goes through a "credible fear" process, where the likelihood of them facing danger in their home country is possible though not necessarily likely.

It is illegal for the U.S. to deport somebody to a country where they would face persecution based on a protected characteristic, such as race, religion, political affiliations or belonging to a particular social group, she said. "So, the reasonable fear process is a way to potentially avoid that."

A deportation order from 15 years ago is what's now complicating Centeno's chances of remaining in the U.S. with his family. At the time, he had been found to be in the U.S. without legal documents and was deported. That deportation order was later reinstated on a few other occasions after he was found to have re-entered the U.S. seeking work and a safe place to live.

According to a court document related to one of his unauthorized re-entries in 2017, Centeno was convicted in 2009 in Houston, Texas of " burglary of habitation ," which in the state means entering someone's dwelling without consent with intent to commit theft. The charge is considered a felony, but not an aggravated one.

“It should not be legally relevant to the merits of his fear-based claim for relief,” Solis said.

Despite the complicated details of his case, Centeno was allowed back in the U.S. in 2022 with his family to pursue his fear-based claims as long as he kept showing up regularly to his ICE check-in appointments, allowing immigration authorities to keep tabs on him, Solis added.

Data gathered by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University suggests that those who attempt to seek asylum while in detention are significantly less likely to get relief or receive any kind of protection from deportation since detained individuals have a harder time finding an attorney and gathering the necessary documents and testimonies to sustain their claims before an immigration judge.

People undergoing a reasonable fear procedure are “almost always detained,” Reiff said. This makes it harder for them to practice “connecting the legal dots to really articulate why it is that they are at risk” before they have one shot at an interview with an asylum officer, she added.

Immigration authorities intend to reinstate Centeno’s deportation order once again based on what happened during his reasonable fear interview, immigration documents obtained by NBC News show.

What's next?

Reiff and Reichlin-Melnick say there's very little regal recourse within the immigration court system for someone in Centeno's position.

His last hope is an appeal his attorneys filed in a New York federal court to fight his old deportation order, Solis said, adding that the appeal is currently on hold until the federal government decides another case later this year that could set a legal precedent relevant to Centeno's case.

Until then, Palacios and her 10-year-old son, Keslor, are imploring ICE to let Centeno await his immigration appeal at home with his family, outside the detention center.

Keslor said he misses playing Christian songs on the guitar with his dad and having his father help him with his school homework.

Palacios said that Keslor had been losing interest in school and struggles to eat since Centeno's detention.

In a handwritten letter to ICE, Keslor described the sadness he felt when he witnessed his father's detention.

"I can't get over that day when they separated my dad from me. I beg you for the love of God to please let him free," the child's letter reads in Spanish. "I miss my dad very much."

Centeno's wife said that in Honduras, "they can kill us … just because he helped the Garifuna people."

Nicole Acevedo is a reporter for NBC News Digital. She reports, writes and produces stories for NBC Latino and NBCNews.com.