safe travel honduras

Update April 12, 2024

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Honduras Travel Advisory

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

Travel Advisory Levels

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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)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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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

There are no notices currently in effect for Honduras.

⇧ 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

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Honduras. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Honduras, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Honduras. 

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

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 | Healthy Water
• 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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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 .

About TourHero

TourHero is a social travel platform that enables you to travel with like-minded people and fall in love with the journey. We work closely with handpicked local operators to ensure every experience curated is unique and exclusive to your travel group. Come with us on epic adventures and create memories that last a lifetime!

Post written by: Angela Goh

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Honduras travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 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, the El Florido border crossing and the CA-11 Highway leading there
• within 20 km of the border with El Salvador, excluding the El Amatillo border crossing and the CA-1 Highway leading there, and El Poy border crossing and the CA-4 Highway leading there
• Choluteca: the city of Choluteca
• Colón, excluding the city of Trujillo
• Chamalecón
• Cofradía
• Rivera Hernandez
• the city of Choloma
• the neighbourhood of El Planeta in the city of La Lima
• El Paraíso: the city of Danlí
• Francisco Morazán: the city of Comayagüela, excluding the Toncontin airport and the major roads leading there
• Gracias a Dios

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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 - 8 April, 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

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 Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

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.

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

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• 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  - United States’ 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.

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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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 . Violence 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. 🙂

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. 

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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.

What makes 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!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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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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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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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: Honduras
• < Travel restrictions

Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com June 6, 2022

By Kiwi.com | June 6, 2022

This article was published on June 6, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter Honduras?

All foreign travelers can enter Honduras as long as they follow the local COVID-19 requirements presented below. Please note that all foreign visitors must complete an Immigration Precheck and Health Form before departing for Honduras.

Can I enter Honduras if I am vaccinated?

You can enter Honduras if you are vaccinated. You can be considered fully vaccinated if you have completed a vaccination course at least 14 days before arriving in Honduras.

As of April 2022, the following vaccines are approved in Honduras:

• AstraZeneca
• Johnson & Johnson

Travel documents if I am vaccinated

• An original certificate confirming vaccination 

Can I enter Honduras if I am unvaccinated?

You can enter Honduras if you are unvaccinated.

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated

• Confirmation of a negative result of a PCR/rapid antigen test taken within 72 hours before departure

Can I leave Honduras?

You can leave Honduras. Please make yourself aware of the requirements concerning COVID-19 tests and other documents at your destination country.

• A certificate of complete vaccination against COVID-19 in paper or electronic format

If you are unvaccinated, please present one of the following documents:

• A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 (no more than 180 days old before the day of crossing the border of a particular country)
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country )

COVID-19 situation in Honduras currently

As of April 2022, the COVID-19 situation in Honduras is moderate.

Is it safe to travel to Honduras right now?

International travel to Honduras is safe as long as you follow some basic rules:

• Wear masks in public places 
• Keep social distance

Is Tegucigalpa open for travel?

Currently, Tegucigalpa is open to travelers. Please abide by all COVID-19-preventative regulations, which are the same as those in place in the rest of the country.

Do I have to go into quarantine if I go to Honduras?

No quarantine is required upon arrival in Honduras.

How do I get a health pass to travel to Honduras?

When traveling to Honduras, travelers must complete an Immigration Precheck and a Health Form , and this can serve as a health pass during your stay.

Useful links:

• Immigration Precheck to enter Honduras
• Honduras Entry Requirements
• Honduras Health Form

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10 Safe Destinations in Honduras

John Dupuis / Destinations , Featured 44 Comments

Many travelers visiting Central America become nervous when they read the travel warnings that their governments post about Honduras. The following questions always arise: Is it safe to travel to Honduras? Which places are safe and which are not? Is it worth the risk of visiting Honduras despite the travel warnings?

Today, I am going to answer the above questions, and try to give you an unbiased view of what the reality is. Having lived in Honduras for the last 25 years, I have developed an “insider” knowledge. This is what I know about which are the safe destinations in Honduras. Following is a list of the most important safe destinations in Honduras that you should not miss. The list includes the destinations that you can travel to and enjoy at ease. They are safe to travel with your family, even if there are young kids with your group.

Of course, you should travel in a responsible manner and make use of your common sense. Do not do things you would not do at home. Consider that carrying illegal drugs on you, even if it is for personal consumption is against the law. Refrain for getting blind drunk and then walking out on the street with strangers. When possible, get a local guide to show you around. Do not walk around with flashy jewels. Remember that Honduras is a poor country, and tempting the poor people with your expensive articles is unwise. The bottom line is that Honduras is not as dangerous as they say it is! 

1. Copan Ruinas

Perhaps the brightest star in mainland Honduras, Copan Ruinas is a great destination that all should visit. Copan is so much more that a great Archaeological destination. A visit to Macaw Mountain Bird Park justifies a visit here even if you are not interested in Archaeology. The town is a small charming community with cobblestone streets and plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Copan Ruinas is one of several safe destinations in Honduras that you can enjoy during your travels. The archaeological park, as well as town, and the trails from town to the park are all safe.

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2. Santa Rosa de Copan

The capital of the department of Copan, in Western Honduras is considered by many as the safest city in Honduras. This is the coffee capital of Honduras. It is a great gateway towards the Lenca Route  that includes Gracias and La Esperanza. Santa Rosa de Copan offers many different things to see and do. It also has a great selection of restaurants and bars to choose from. Night life in Santa Rosa de Copan is great. This is because the city is very safe. It is a good destination to visit with family, including children and older folks.

3.- Gracias

Gracias  is a charming, and until recently unknown destination in Western Honduras. The city has blossomed into a great spot to visit. It deserves to be in this list of safe destinations in Honduras. Feel free to walk around the city, visit Celaque National Park or visit the hot springs within the destination. Gracias offers a variety of hotels to stay in. You are sure to find one that will fit your budget. The current president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez is from Gracias , and he has done a great job promoting its development. Gracias offers a unique window to life in a rural, laid back corner of Honduras.

4. Lake Yojoa

The largest natural lake in Honduras is surrounded by two different National Parks. It is one of the top birding hot spots in Central America. Parque Nacional Azul Meambar is the most accessible National Park if you are coming from San Pedro Sula. The lake is on highways CA5, which connects Tegucigalpa with San Pedro Sula. Unlike the previous destinations, Lake Yojoa does not offer a community per say where everything in the destination revolves around. It’s rather large size leads to more isolated hot spots where you can relax and enjoy the destination. The most three more popular spots on the Lake are Honduyate Marina , D&D Brewery and Panacam Lodge .

The first is ideal if you are looking for water sports and sailing. Honduyate offers nice rooms, good food and great lakefront location. Panacam Lodge is the most popular spot for those looking to do serious bird watching, as well as being in the rainforest. D&D Brewery offers a great setting to meet friends. This is the perfect spot to visit the El Naranjo Eco Archaeological Park and kayak the shores of this beautiful lake. They are home to one of the few micro breweries in Honduras, and you can taste their great beers. All the above mentioned areas in Lake Yojoa are safe. Lake Yojoa is one of the top safe destinations in Honduras.

A charming sleepy beach town on the Caribbean Coast of Honduras, Tela is one of the safe destinations in Honduras. Tela developed as the center of the Tela Railroad Company operations in Honduras. Together with La Ceiba, it stands as the Banana Republic Capital of the World. In the past, cargo ships would sail from Tela and La Ceiba to distribute bananas and other fruits harvested in Honduras. Today, Tela has become the premier beach destination in Honduras.

Tela boasts the only World Championship PGA golf course on mainland Honduras at Indura Golf Resort. A variety of Garifuna Villages are around the bay. This provides the perfect setting to get to meet and know this unique culture. There are many different places to stay within town and around the bay. Both the city and the Garifuna Villages are safe. Please take note that it is not a good to walk alone on the lonely beaches between the communities.

6. La Ceiba

The original capital of the Banana Republic, La Ceiba is often overlooked due to concerns about safety. These concerns are unfounded. Unless you are looking for night life, I suggest you plan on visiting and staying in the Cangrejal River Valley . This is by far the nicest area in La Ceiba, probably one of the nicest areas in Central America. There is a cluster of 10 small hotels and 4 tour operators that are in this area, so it is easy to find the right place for you. My favorite hotel here is La Villa de Soledad B&B . The area is only 9 km. south of La Ceiba, up in the Nombre de Dios Mountains.

The area is ideal to enjoy nature, and if you are looking for some adventure activities, this is your place! World Class white water rafting , hiking in the tropical rain forests and zip lining though the forest canopy are only a few of your alternatives. Most travelers plan on spending at least 3 nights in this lovely Shangri La like valley. Another great excuse to visit La Ceiba is the fact that this is where the ferry terminal for the Bay Islands is. From the Cangrejal River Valley, you  are only 30 minutes away from the ferry to Roatan or Utila!

The Cangrejal River Valley is one of the safe destinations in Honduras. Travelers walk between the different lodges and activities at easy. Birdwatchers stroll down the main road with their fancy binoculars and cameras. Locals appreciate the tourists and take care of them!

7. Comayagua

The Colonial Capital of Honduras is often overlooked. Although easy to get to, as it is on the CA5 highway between San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa , it is off the regular beaten path that tourists travel. Comayagua is Honduras’ colonial gem. It’s downtown has been renovated, there are several museums in town and strolling through the city is a pleasure. A variety of hotels, restaurants and bars provide the perfect selection for every budget and taste. Best of all, Comayagua is one of the top safe destinations in Honduras. You will feel safe and comfortable strolling through this charming city.

This island is perhaps the most well known destination in Honduras. Roatan has become an important port of call for many different cruise ships. This means that on certain days of the week, normally between Tuesday and Thursday, the island is full with cruise ship passengers. These day travelers can turn the island into a tourist trap. The good news is that few cruise ship passengers make it out to Roatan’s East End . So if the island feels crowded, head out to the East End! Roatan is one of the Safe Destinations in Honduras. Remember, it is always a good idea to use your common sense. Do not venture out to lonely places. It is a bad idea to hike along the beach and coast from between West End and West Bay . This area is lonely, so save yourself some grief and take a cab or a water taxi to your destination!

World famous as the most affordable destination in the World to get Scuba Certified! Utila is a charming island where everything is within walking distance. The waterfront beach bars are a fun place to enjoy the sunsets and meet friends from around the world. Utila has to be one of the safest destinations in the World. Most young travelers visiting the island don’t want to leave it! There is even a fun video put together by a couple of Ausies that tells the story of travelers that do not want to leave the island. The videos title is “ If you come to Utila ” and I recommend you watch it! If you decide on visiting the island after viewing the video, you will want to meet “ Dr. John ”, one of the characters that lives in Utila.

Until recently, it was hard to travel between these two islands. However, the Utila Dream ferry boat now offers regular service between Utila and Roatan on the weekends. The trip beats having to travel back to La Ceiba and then to the other island.

10. Guanaja

The most isolated of the three main Bay Islands, Guanaja is the most beautiful and less visited. The island has a personality of its own, and offers a true Robinson Crusoe setting. There is no regular ferry to Guanaja from La Ceiba. This means that you either have to travel to Trujillo to take the ferry to Guanaja or fly from La Ceiba. Most travelers fly, as it is a lot more time efficient. Guanaja has small family owned and run resorts. It offers a peaceful setting with spectacular sunsets, friendly people and lots of places to explore. Guanaja is one of the 10 safe destinations in Honduras that we feature in this post.

In all honesty, I could continue writing about more safe destinations in Honduras. Most of Honduras is safe. As a matter of fact, even the two large cities, Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula are safe to travel to if you use your common sense. Southern Honduras also offers many safe destinations. San Lorenzo , Choluteca and Amapala are just a sample of these.

You should plan on visiting Honduras before the world realizes that it is a safe destination and everyone tries to visit. At the moment, you will feel welcome, pampered and plain lucky to have the country almost to yourself. Now you know of at least 10 safe destinations in Honduras. Start planning your trip and try to visit as many of them as possible. There is something for every taste. Mayan Archaeology , Nature and Adventure , Diving , Colonial Monuments and live cultures are all here for your enjoyment. There is no doubt that despite being one small country, Honduras offers a huge alternative of things to do! Enjoy!

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44 Comments

BlackgirlZen July 5, 2017 @ 4:40 pm

[…] are several safe areas in Honduras to explore. The Tourism office even provides a list of various secured places for […]

Hi!! My wife and I are planning on travelling into Honduras from Nicaragua in the next couple of days and travelling around and exploring. Obviously we are aware of he reputation of Honduras but having travelled around equally contentiously reputed places we want to judge for ourselves and not base assumptions on media representation. I was wondering if you could tell me anything about the ease and safety of the crossings into Honduras and anything about using local transport around the country as opposed to the shuttle buses. We are on a very limited budget but absolutely want to make the most of our time there and see as much as we can! Thanks, Dani

Hi Dani! I am sure your wife and yourself will enjoy traveling through Honduras. Border crossings are easy, and the only recommendation I can think of is do not exchange a large amount of money at the border. If you will be traveling on regular buses, it is best to do so early in the morning. Enjoy your trip in Honduras and feel free to reach out if you need any help!

I’d like to travel Honduras with local guides for some of my time there. What do you know about Journey Latin America (UK) tour company?

Hi Noreen! Journey Latin America is a reputable and responsible tour company. They hire only the best local tour guides and hotels. I believe you would be in great hands if you use them to arrange your trip to Honduras! Let me know if I can help you in any way! Thanks for reaching out to us!

Hi John great article you have written.my wife and myself are really interested in going to Honduras,we are in El Salvador at the minute.would you recommend traveling around the country on local transport,we have laptops and things like that so your advice would be appreciated.

Hi Andrew! As a general rule, traveling on the highway using the local transportation in safe and you should have no problem. I would certainly avoid traveling on within the big cities using the local buses and carrying your laptops and valuables. You are safest if you travel on the bus companies that do not pick up or drop off passengers along the highway. The best alternatives are Hedman Alas and Viana Transportes. However, these to not always go where you want to go. From El Salvador, take the King Quality bus to San PEdro Sula or Tegucigalpa. This would be the safest alternative to insure your laptops stay with you. The San PEdro Sula bus station is safe and you can change buses within the terminal safely. As in all public areas, keep an eye on your belongings! I would be happy to give you more specific options if you tell me where you are planning to visit in Honduras. Safe travels!

Hi John, I was thinking of taking the ferry from Placencia to Puerto Cortes on Friday and then taking the bus from Puerto Cortes to La Ceiba to catch the ferry out to Utila/Roatan. I am backpacking (fluent in Spanish), but do have my laptop, etc. with me. Is this route safe? Is there a particular bus company I should look into?

Also, I was not planning to scuba dive, but like to snorkel and kayak. Are there enough other activities on the islands to make it worth visiting as a non-diver? Many thanks!

Good morning Brandon! Thank you for reaching out to me! Always happpy to help a traveler through Honduras! I am not sure which bus company to recommend between Puerto Cortes to San PEdro Sula. If at all possible, take a direct bus, that is, one that does not stop to pick up or drop of passengers along the way. This bus will bring you to the San Pedro Sula bus station, where ALL the buses in and out of San Pedro Sula operate from. The two safest bus companies are Hedman Alas and Viana. They both offer service to La Ceiba. I must say that both of these companies are more expensive that the others. I would not worry to much about your trip on a bus in Honduras. Highway robberies are not that common in Honduras. It is more dangerous to be on the intra city buses. Some of these routes are actually quite dangerous. You will not have a problem finding activities on the islands. Both Utila and Roatan offer a variety of things to do in addition to scuba diving. It is now possible to travel between both islands on the Utila dream ferry, so make sure you visit both, they are very different from each other! Have a safe trip and enjoy Honduras. While in La Ceiba, check out the Cangrejal River Valley. You will be happy you did. There are a couple of affordable lodges there.

John, my wife and i like vacationing away from big hotels but near clean beaches and water. We do like some amenities – kitchen, air conditioning, TV, WIFI. Any suggestions for contacts? THANKS

I love the east side of Roatan. Camp Bay Resort and Paya Bay Resort are great alternatives. The beaches there are very pristine and things are quiet. Another option is the Utopia Village and the Coral Beach Villas in Utila. On the mainland, you might want to check out the area around Trujillo. Banana Beach Resort is a great alternative. Not sure if all the above offer access to a kitchen but they are all lovely properties away from it all and with all the basic commodities.

Great Article John! My wife and I are currently in Guatemala and planning the next leg of our central american journey. We are thinking of entering Honduras via Copan then doing a loop through Lake Yojoa, Gracias and Santa Rosa de Copan before making our way down to El Salvador. I guess I have a couple of questions, firstly which buses are best to travel between these destinations safely? (Is it possible to get to Lake Yojoa from Copan in a day?)and finally which destination would be best to finish at in order to get to El Salvador easily? Thanks

Hi Brad! Thank you for reaching out! Always happy to help a traveler in Honduras! As a general rule buses on intercity routes in Honduras are safe. We have a problem with the buses that provide service within the big cities, such as San PEdro Sula and Tegucigalpa, but you will not be using those at all. There are two different border crossings between Honduras and El Salvador. One is the “El Poy” border near Ocotepeque and Santa Rosa de Copan, the other is “El Amatillo” on the Pacific Coast, on the Pan American Highway. From the route you are planning to take, I suggest El Poy, and leaving from Santa Rosa de Copan as your last destination in Honduras. In other words, from Copan travel to Lake Yojoa, then La Esperanza, Gracias and finally to Santa Rosa de Copan. There is no direct service between Copan Ruinas and Lake Yojoa. This means you will need to go to San Pedro Sula. Don’t worry because you will not even need to go out of the bus terminal in San Pedro Sula to catch your next bus. If you take the Hedman Alas Bus from Copan Ruinas to San Pedro Sula you may end up in San PEdro Sula to late to catch a bus to Lake Yojoa. Depending on where you are staying in Lake Yojoa, you can take Cristina bus company service from San Pedro Sula to Tegucigalpa. You can let the bus driver what hotel you are staying at and if it is on the main highway, he can drop you off in front of the hotel. If you are headed for the D&D brewery, which is a popular place for travelers, you will need to get off your bus at “La Guama” This is a junction on the main road and from there take the bus to Pena Blanca, There get a cab. If you are in San Pedro Sula early, you might catch the bus to “El Mochito” This bus can leave you within walking distance to D&D brewery. Happy travels in Honduras!

Hi John!! My family and I will be staying in Roatan for about a week at the end of July. I wanted to say thank you for such a well written article! I’ve been researching places to visit for weeks and many of the places that you’ve listed have not come up on any of my searches! That being said, I am concerned about safety because I will be traveling with an 8 year old child. We will be staying in a private cabin in Mud Hole and possibly scoping out real estate while we are there on the island. Due to the fact that we aren’t staying at a resort, combined with the warnings and lack of information on specific neighborhoods, I am concerned about our choice of where to stay. Any information you could provide would be greatly appreciated! In any case we are thrilled about visiting Roatan! I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else. I came here on a cruise when I was 17 and it is the most beautiful place I have ever seen in my entire life. Thanks again for the great article!

Hi Tiffany! Glad to hear our posts are useful to travelers planning their trip to Honduras! As a general rule, Roatan is very safe. The area where you will be staying has the drawback that it is very close to the island dump, where all the garbage is disposed of. That means that you will probably have to drive past it every time you leave or arrive to your cabin. I would suggest getting the phone number of a couple of reliable taxi cabs on the island if you will be using a taxi. If you are renting a car, you will be fine! I am sure that the folks you are renting the cabin from can provide a couple of contacts for reliable taxi drivers. Other that that, use your common sense. Do not walk on lonely beaches after dark, stay together as a family and you will be fine! Enjoy your vacation in Roatan! John

John my wife and I are considering buying a villa at the Njoi Trujillo Beach Resort. Our children told us we were crazy because it is not safe. we would appreciate any information you have on the safety in that area and any other info you have.

Thanks Rick

Please update – your #3 location, Gracias, is now on the state departments stay away list. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/honduras-travel-advisory.html

Thank you for your comments James! I must state that the US State Department recommends staying away from the Department of Gracias a Dios. This area is in Eastern Honduras and has indeed seen conflict because of drug trade. My list of safe destinations talks about the city of Gracias a Dios, the capital of the Department of Lempira, in Western Honduras. This area is safe and is not on the report issued by the US State Department. I therefore stand by my post regarding the City of Gracias as a safe destination in Honduras!

Thank you for this awesome article! I am doing a solo trip around Central America, and would like to add Honduras to the mix. I will likely be traveling there from Guatemala, and was curious about finding safe taxis/ buses after crossing the border. What do you recommend?

Hi Megan! I imagine you will be crossing into Honduras from Guatemala through the Corinto Border, near Copan Ruinas. There are regular buses that depart often from the border to Copan Ruinas, that is only 12 km away. These buses are safe so you need not worry. The best safest buses in Honduras are HEdman Alas. They are also the most comfortable ones. I recommend that whenever possible you use them.

Hi there, would it be safe to rent a vehicle and drive around with another traveller in the daytime?

Hi Andrea! Yes it is perfectly safe to rent a vehicle and drive around the country in the daytime. Just keep in mind that some of the highways are not as good as those elsewhere and can have deep potholes. Drive carefully, avoid driving at night and have a good time!

Thanks so much John! I drove around Costa Rica so I am used to the potholes heheh

Thank you John for this awesome article. I am from Honduras; however grew up in the states and have not been back in 15 years. I’m going back in May with husband and kids, and I’m planning on renting a car and driving to Tegucigalpa and Valle de Angeles. Do you feel the roads are safe? is Valle de Angeles safe? We also plan on going to Tela and Roatan. I left Honduras when I was a child; therefore never traveled around the country and I hear there are so many beautiful places to see.

Hello Maria!

Thank you for reaching out to us with your questions! YEs you can certainly rent a car and drive around the country. Most of the highways are not very safe at night because of potholes and poorly marked roads. Because of this, I recommend that you try to keep your highway driving to day light hours. One notable exception to this is the CA5 highway that connects San Pedro Sula to Tegucigalpa. This highway is one of the best in Central America. Yes Valle de Angeles, Tela and Roatan are all safe and I am sure you will enjoy visiting them to the max. Feel free to get back with any other questions that you might have!

Loving your article. thank you so much for writing this!! I want to cross the boarder from Guatemala to Honduras. any tips on chicken buses or do you happen to know the route?

Hi Aki! Your best option is to cross from Guatemala to Honduras via de Corinto Border, that is only 12 km. from Copan Ruinas. Copan is one of the top tourist attractions in Honduras and it is a must during your visit to Honduras. There are several outfits that offer shuttle bus services between Antigua Guatemala and Copan Ruinas. If you are in the Rio Dulce area, then you may end up crossing through the Corinto Border. This in close to the Caribbean Coast and will bring you to Puerto Cortes and San Pedro Sula. Please note that there are regularly scheduled shuttle buses between Rio Dulce and La Ceiba. If you are headed directly to the Bay Islands, this would be a great alternative. Enjoy your trip!

Hi John thank you so much for your prompt reply. I really appreciate it. also sorry for the other comment. I thought my first one didn’t go through. I will probably have to cross from Copan due to limited time and skip Caribbean part. Do you know any mount climbs I can do in Honduras? I love climbing mountains and I would LOVE to do one in Honduras too!

Hi Aki! I think that your best bet would be Celaque, which is very close to Gracias in Western Honduras. There is a trail to the top of the mountain, and this is the highest peak in Honduras at around 2,800 meters. There are several places where you can get information on how to do this once in Gracias. I recommend you stay at the Hotel Guancascos in Gracias and contact Froni, the Owner. She is a Dutch lady that has lived in Gracias for over 20 years and is a wealth of local info! Enjoy your climb!

thank you so much for your article. its so lovely. I am traveling to Guatemala and Honduras in a week time and I would like to know how to travel from/to Guatemala to Honduras with chicken buses? any chance you know the routes? any help would be much appreciated! thanks again for the amazing article!!!

Hello John, I was looking through the website and the info is pretty accurate and good. You are the author of this website, but I would like to know the date you update or post the info about Comayagua. I am a student and I will be talking about Honduras, but I need to cited all my sources, unfortunately I couldn’t find the dates. Can you let me know? Please.

Thanks, Sophie Jonhsen

Hi Sophie! Thank you for reaching out to us. Yes I am the author of this blog, and I run around the country regularly trying to keep the information updated and relevant. I was last in Comayagua about two years ago, so that would make the information was last updated around the beginning of 2017. Should be back in Comayagua any day to catch up with what is new.

Is it safe to fly in to Tegucigalpa to see my family and stay with them?

Good morning Susan! Thanks for reaching out to us! As a general rule, Tegucigalpa, just as any other city in the World can have some dangerous areas. As a general rule, I find most areas in Tegucigalpa safe, and enjoy walking around the downtown area whenever I visit the city. I suggest you confirm with your family is they live in a safe area or not. When walking around the city, make sure you do not wear jewelry that will attract attention to you. If possible, use taxis from trusted sources. You will surely enjoy visiting your family and Tegucigalpa.

Hi John! The info you offer is so helpful! We will be visiting Honduras for a week and staying at the Indura Resort. Is there a local guide in that area that you could recommend to spend a day or two showing us around? We’d like to see the ruins and would love recommendations for the best place to zip line and snorkel. We appreciate your advice!

Hi Carrie! Happy to be of help! I would recommend that you talk to Garifuna Tours, they are a tour operator based in Tela that can help you arrange different activities. Do take note that the Ruins of Copan are a good 5 hour trip from Tela, and therefore would need to be considered as an overnight trip to truly enjoy and discover the site. To my knowledge, there are no zip lines in Tela, but there is one at Termas Jilamito, a interesting area with hot springs that is about an hour drive from Tela. Again, Garifuna Tours would be the people to contact.Their website is http://www.garifunatours.com

Thank you! One last question. Do you have any advice on safe and reasonable transportation to the resort from the airport? Our flight is arriving around midnight. Should we plan on waiting until morning to arrange transportation?

Because of your scheduled arrival time, I assume that you will flying into San PEdro Sula with Spirit Air. If this is the case, I would contact Maya Temple Tours, they are the local sales agents for Spirit in Honduras. they offer shuttle service between San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa, and I know some clients have booked such a service to La Ceiba. They have the transportation equipment, are reliable and best of all, they are affiliated with the airline. I would contact them and if they can not offer the service then ask Garifuna Tours for the service. Their web page is mayatempletours.com

Hi, what would you say is the safest place for an American to LIVE in Honduras for a period of about 6-9 months? Where can you get a safe rental for that time frame? Are there any safer areas to rent near the capital? or do you need to go elsewhere? Thank you

Good evening Lorette!

There are many safe areas in Honduras where you can live, including the two bigger cities, Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula. I would ask why you will be living in Honduras and what your activities will be to be able to further make suggestions. You would do well to contact a reputable real estate agent to help you out. Remax is well established in Honduras and has bilingual realtors that can help you out.

I will be traveling soon from Nicaragua to Honduras. I am from the States, but my friend is from Nicaragua. I will have my own car. I prefer to avoid buses. I appreciate everything you posted… Having been in Managua, I understand everything about night travel and being vigilant.

Of all the places you discussed, I was curious about the safety of the car. Do you only travel by bus and taxi?

The car is 17 years old, has several dents and does not look like anything I would take… But it is a third world country and would like to keep the car, and all 4 wheels for the entire trip. LOL

Your comments are appreciated. Thanks

Hi Angelito!

I travel throughout Honduras with my car. As a general rule, it is very safe to travel on Honduras highways, as long as you avoid the potholes in some highways. I would not worry about your car being stolen and much less having the wheels taken off the car. Enjoy your trip! One tip, if you have tinted windows, make sure you roll them down if you come up an police inspection along the road. As long as they can see who is in the car, they usually just wave you through!

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Looking for an in-depth Honduras travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Located in Central America, Honduras is a country of lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and deep history.

There really is something for every kind of traveler in this country of just over 43,000 square miles.

And while the country may have a reputation for being dangerous, don’t let that deter you from checking out this travel gem.

Beach lovers will definitely want to check out the Bay Islands, located just off the east coast of Honduras. The region’s three main islands — Utila, Roatan , and Guanaja — offer a laid-back vibe, white sand beaches, and plenty of nightlife for those who like to party.

The islands are also home to breathtaking coral reefs and many different types of fish, making them a diver’s or snorkeler’s paradise. If you’re looking for a beach experience away from the pristine resorts of the easter islands, Honduras’s Caribbean Coast is the place to go.

Honduras was also once a major hub of Mayan civilization and there are plenty of historic ruins to explore throughout the country.

One of the most popular sites is the Copan Ruins , a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just a few miles from the Guatemala border.

Here, you can check out a Mayan citadel and learn more about this great civilization. Throw on some comfortable shoes, as this site has a lot to explore!

The country’s more rural areas are places of unspoiled natural wonder, with great sites for outdoor explorers — especially hikers wanting to explore some of the world’s best hikes . Do some rafting along the Cangrejal River, hike through the Moskitia Forest, and check out the serene Lago de Yojoa.

Any way you slice it, there’s so much to see in Honduras and no two trips will look exactly alike!

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Honduras, a destination that should be mentioned in every Central America travel guide !

Note: This ultimate guide to Honduras travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Honduras Map

Use this Honduras travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Honduras Travel Advice

Plan the perfect trip to Honduras with these travel guides.

Exploring The Caribbean Side Of Honduras On Roatan Island

Copan, Honduras: An Amazing Day Exploring Mayan Ruins In The World’s Most Dangerous Country

From Solo To Sidekicks: Notes On My Central America Group Travel Experience

Top Honduras Tours

Explore the local culture with the help of a Honduras tour guide !

• Roatan Shore Excursion: Monkeys, Sloths, and Snorkel Adventure
• Roatan Ziplines Sloth Park and West Bay Beach Break
• Roatan Barrier Reef Snorkel & Monkeys/Sloth Sanctuary from French Cay
• Day Trip to La Tigra and El Picacho Park from Tegucigalpa
• Roatan Shore Excursion: Kayak Harbor Adventure and Reef Snorkel from French Harbour
• Day Trip to the Mayan Ruins of Copan from San Pedro Sula

Renting A Car In Honduras

Need a rental car for your Honduras trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Honduras Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in Honduras !

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Honduras Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Honduras tour. When visiting Honduras — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Honduras itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Honduras Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Honduras .

Q: Is it safe to vacation in Honduras?

While crime is very much a reality in Honduras, the country is generally pretty safe to visit. There are certain areas to avoid due to higher crime rates, including municipalities along the north coast and in the central part of the country.

Most experts suggest avoiding Gracias a Dios department; its remote location and high level of drug trafficking make it particularly dangerous for travelers.

On the other hand, the Bay Islands, Copan Ruins, and other areas popular with tourists have a much lower crime rate and have a more robust law enforcement presence.

Keep alert and understand how to avoid pickpockets to protect yourself from petty crime in these areas, but know that more serious violent crime is not as common.

Q: Is Honduras expensive to visit?

Honduras is a very affordable place to visit. The average traveler should budget about $29 USD per day for meals, accommodation, transportation, and other expenses while in the country.

Accommodation rates are a bit more expensive around the coast, so keep that in mind.

Flights will likely be your biggest expense for this country. Round-trip flights from the U.S. generally cost around $400-$500 USD depending on the airline and departure destination, though you can find some great deals if you shop around.

Q: What do I need to know about traveling to Honduras?

One thing to know about Honduras is that the country’s poverty rate is very high. Many of the people you’ll encounter in the country are likely struggling to get by. Be a conscious visitor in Honduras and tip well, shop local, and don’t haggle too much with merchants.

Also, be sure to keep cash handy while in Honduras. Many businesses do not accept credit cards and working ATMs are scarce, so plan to get plenty of cash — ideally in the local currency — before you go.

Q: What are some travel tips for people visiting Honduras?

Leave plenty of time when traveling via ground transportation in Honduras. Local taxi and van services don’t always run on time, so be sure to work any possible delays into your itinerary.

While English is commonly spoken on the Bay Islands , Spanish is the national language of Honduras and most Hondurans only speak Spanish. Learn a few words and phrases before your trip to help you get by and show respect for the locals. Luckily, Spanish is often one of the easiest languages to learn for English speakers .

The country’s climate makes it a particularly welcoming environment for mosquitoes, many of whom carry diseases like malaria and dengue.

Malaria vaccinations, while not required by the Honduran government, are highly recommended. You can get vaccinated and acquire any medications you may need for your trip at your local doctor’s office.

And be sure to pack plenty of insect repellant and cover-up in particularly damp areas.

Q: What is the best place to visit in Honduras?

No visit to Honduras is complete without a trip to the Copan Ruins ! Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area was once the center of Mayan civilization in the Copan Valley.

Explore the Mayan citadel and stone portraits throughout the site to get a sense of what life was like in the area thousands of years ago.

While there, you can visit the Museum of Mayan Sculpture for even more insight into the artifacts found among the ruins.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Honduras?

Citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and the European Union do not need a visa to visit Honduras for less than 90 days. Visitors from these countries will need to show a valid passport and proof of a return flight upon entry into the country.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Honduras International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Honduras Embassy.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Honduras?

While credit cards are sometimes accepted — especially Visa and Mastercard — many establishments only take cash, so make sure to have that on hand.

Moreover, it’s smart to bring two ATM cards in case you run into an issue.

Q: What is the best time to visit Honduras?

While Honduras is a year-round destination, the dry season is between December and April.

Q: What months are summer in Honduras?

Summer in Honduras runs from November to April.

Q: Can you drink tap water in Honduras?

It is best to avoid drinking the tap water in Honduras.

Q: What is the hottest month in Honduras?

The warmest months in Honduras are typically April and May.

Q: What is the local currency in Honduras?

The local currency in Honduras is the Honduran lempira.

What would you add to this Honduras travel guide?

Pin for later: Honduras Travel Guide

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!

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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. 

You can also help us by pinning it for others to find.

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We’re Carine and Derek, two Canadians in love with each other, the environment and this world. We left our old routines behind to discover all the wonders our planet has to offer. We want to inspire everyone to chase their dreams and leave a positive impact on Earth.

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