HONDURAS
Honduras, a captivating Central American nation, is a land of dramatic mountainous interiors, narrow coastal plains, and rich cultural heritage. From ancient Maya sites like Copán to its Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, Honduras offers diverse landscapes. Gaining independence from Spain in 1821, its history has been shaped by its strategic location and vibrant mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences.
Region: Central America
Capital: Tegucigalpa
Official Language: Spanish
Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution in Honduras due to high levels of violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and kidnapping. Gang-related activity is prevalent in some areas. Avoid non-essential travel to specific regions like the Gracias a Dios Department and certain neighborhoods within major cities. Be vigilant, especially after dark, and avoid public transportation.
Why Visit Honduras?
Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán and other archaeological sites.
Pristine Beaches: Relax on the world-renowned beaches of Roatán, Utila, and the Bay Islands.
Ecotourism: Trek through cloud forests and rainforests in places like Pico Bonito National Park.
Diving and Snorkeling: The Bay Islands offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean.
Adventure Tourism: Go zip-lining, hiking, or white-water rafting in stunning natural settings.
Vibrant Local Markets: Discover the colors and flavors of local markets in cities like La Ceiba and Tegucigalpa.
Essential Trip Information
Visa and Entry Requirements
Check official requirements via the Honduran government’s visa portal (link).
Most visitors (including U.S., EU, and UK citizens) receive a 90-day visa-free entry.
Passports must be valid for 6+ months beyond your stay.
Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds (US$500+ recommended) may be requested.
Tourist card fee: ~US$3–10 (often included in flight tickets).
Currency
Currency: Honduran Lempira (HNL). US$1 ≈ HNL 24.70 (2024 rate).
Best Ways to Handle Money:
- ATMs (Banco Atlántida, BAC) dispense Lempiras; notify your bank of travel.
- US dollars accepted in tourist areas (change in Lempiras).
- Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) work in cities; cash is king in rural areas.
Avoid: Street money changers (scams) and dynamic currency conversion.
Language
Spanish (official). English spoken in Bay Islands/Roatán.
Key phrases: “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much?), “Gracias” (Thank you).
Safety and Security
Exercise caution: Avoid isolated areas at night (especially San Pedro Sula/Tegucigalpa).
Tourist zones (Roatán, Copán, Utila) are generally safe.
Emergency number: 911.
Health & Insurance
Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended. Malaria prophylaxis for rainforests.
Tap water: Unsafe; drink bottled/filtered water.
Pharmacies: Widely available (e.g., Farmacia Simán).
Transportation
Buses: Cheap but crowded (“chicken buses” for locals, Hedman Alas for tourists).
Taxis: Negotiate fares upfront (US$5–10 for short trips).
Domestic flights: CM Airlines connects major cities (US$50–100).
Ferries: Roatán/Utila (US$30–40 round-trip).
Price Level
Honduras is generally affordable for travelers, with options for all budgets.
Accommodation:
- Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$10–25/night).
- Mid-range: Eco-lodges/3-star hotels (US$40–80/night).
- Luxury: Resorts (US$120+/night; e.g., Roatán’s beachfront villas).
Food:
- Quick eats: Street food ($2–5 USD)
- Casual dining: Local restaurants ($10–20 USD per person)
- Fine dining: International cuisine ($30+ USD per person)
Drinks:
- Beer: $2–4 USD (bars), $1–2 USD (supermarkets)
- Cocktails: $5–10 USD
Transportation:
- Public buses: $0.50–2 USD/ride
- Taxis: $5–15 USD for short trips
- Rental cars: $25–40 USD/day
Money-Saving Tips:
- Enjoy free access to some natural parks.
- Use local buses for efficient and cheap travel around cities.
- Stay in smaller towns or rural areas for lower accommodation rates.
Explore Honduras
The largest of Honduras’s Bay Islands, located off the northern Caribbean coast. Roatán is a world-renowned destination for diving and snorkeling, boasting vibrant coral reefs that are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. It offers stunning beaches, lush hillsides, and a laid-back island vibe with plenty of water activities.
Situated in western Honduras, close to the Guatemalan border. Copán is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Mayan archaeological sites. Visitors can explore intricately carved stelae, altars, hieroglyphic stairways, and well-preserved structures revealing the ancient civilization’s artistry.
The capital and largest city of Honduras, nestled in a mountainous valley in the central part of the country. Tegucigalpa offers a blend of colonial architecture and modern city life, with historical churches, museums like the National Identity Museum, and viewpoints providing panoramic cityscapes.
Located on the northern Caribbean coast, La Ceiba is known as Honduras’s ecotourism capital. It serves as a gateway to national parks, white-water rafting on the Cangrejal River, and access to the nearby Bay Islands and Cayos Cochinos. The city itself is lively with a vibrant nightlife and Garifuna cultural influences.
A smaller, more bohemian island located near Roatán off the northern coast. Utila is famous for its affordable scuba diving certifications and encounters with whale sharks. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, attracting backpackers and marine enthusiasts with its clear waters and diverse underwater world.
The largest natural lake in Honduras, situated in the central-western region, straddling the departments of Comayagua, Cortés, and Santa Bárbara. Lake Yojoa is a biodiversity hotspot, especially for birdwatching, and offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and visiting nearby coffee plantations and waterfalls like Pulhapanzak.
A coastal town on the Caribbean Sea in the northern part of Honduras. Tela is known for its beautiful beaches, the Lancetilla Botanical Garden (one of the world’s largest), and its proximity to Garifuna villages, offering a chance to experience their unique culture and traditions.
A pristine archipelago of small islands and cays located off the northern coast of Honduras, protected as a marine monument. These unspoiled islands are a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and experiencing untouched natural beauty, home to the endangered pink boa constrictor and a vibrant reef system.
An historical city in the central valley of Honduras, about 80 km (50 miles) north of Tegucigalpa. Once the colonial capital, Comayagua boasts beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture, including a stunning cathedral with one of the oldest working clocks in the Americas, and charming cobblestone streets.
A historic port city on the Caribbean coast of Honduras, in the department of Colón. Trujillo is notable for its rich history as one of the first landing sites of Christopher Columbus on the mainland Americas. It features colonial forts, beautiful bays, and a laid-back atmosphere with cultural significance.
Smart Travel
Key Advantages:
- Lowest Prices for accommodation and tours
- Fewer Crowds, offering a more authentic experience
- Lush, vibrant landscapes from abundant rainfall
- Excellent for white-water rafting on rivers like the Cangrejal
Main Drawbacks:
- Heavy Rainfall, especially September and October
- High Humidity
- Limited Outdoor Activities (some trails may be muddy or inaccessible)
- Increased Mosquito Activity
- Hurricane Season risk (June – November)
Key Regions:
- La Ceiba: Known as the ecotourism capital, vibrant even with rain, gateway to Pico Bonito.
- Lake Yojoa: Serene beauty, good for birdwatching, less impacted by short bursts of rain.
- Copán Ruins: Ancient Mayan site, often less crowded, though rain can be intense.
- Tela: Coastal town with Garifuna culture, can be enjoyed during breaks in rain.
Key Advantages:
- Pleasant Weather as seasons transition
- Manageable Crowds compared to peak season
- Reasonable Prices
- Good balance for both outdoor and cultural activities
- Green landscapes after the wet season or before intense heat
Main Drawbacks:
- Unpredictable Weather, can have residual rain or early dry season heat
- Some popular spots may still be busy due to lingering holiday periods (e.g., Easter in April, Christmas in December)
- Increasing Prices towards the peak season
Key Regions:
- Bay Islands (Roatán, Utila): Excellent for diving and snorkeling as waters calm and visibility improves.
- Copán Ruinas: Comfortable temperatures for exploring the archaeological site.
- Comayagua: Historical city with colonial charm, pleasant for walking and cultural immersion.
- Trujillo: Coastal town with historical significance, ideal for exploring without intense heat.
- Dry Season (January – March)
- Semana Santa (Easter Holy Week)
- Major Holidays (Christmas and New Year)
Planning Your Trip
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Roatán.
Tipping: 10–15% is standard in restaurants. Tip US$1–2 for hotel staff or tour guides.
Dress Code: Casual attire is common for sightseeing, but more formal dress may be required for upscale restaurants or hotels.
Cultural Sensitivity: While Hondurans are warm and welcoming, avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or crime.
Respecting Nature: Be mindful of the environment, especially in national parks and nature reserves.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Honduras is relatively affordable compared to other Central American countries.
Accommodation: Hostels (US$15–30), mid-range hotels (US$50–100), luxury resorts (US$150+).
Food: Street food (US$3–6), casual meals (US$10–15), fine dining (US$30+).
Transport: Local buses (US$1–3), taxis (US$5–15 for short rides), car rental (US$30–50/day).
Activities: Many natural attractions are free (e.g., beaches, hiking). Guided tours range from US$20–50.
Daily Budget:
- Budget: US$50–75 (hostels, street food, local transport).
- Mid-range: US$100–200 (mid-range hotels, restaurants, tours).
- Luxury: US$250+ (resorts, private tours, fine dining).
Internet & Mobile
Free Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, cafes, and public areas, though coverage in rural areas can be patchy.
SIM Cards: Tigo and Claro offer prepaid SIM cards (US$5–15 for 3–5GB of data).
eSIMs: Supported by major providers, available through services like Airalo.
Travel Insurance
Recommended for: Medical coverage (especially for outdoor activities like hiking and diving), trip delays (common during the rainy season).
U.S. Healthcare: Expensive—ensure your plan covers emergencies or purchase travel insurance.
Adventure Activities: Some policies exclude activities like scuba diving or zip-lining, so check for coverage if you plan on participating.
Accomodation Options
Honduras offers diverse accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to beachfront resorts.
Hotels:
- Luxury: The Infinity Bay Resort (Roatán), Indura Beach & Golf Resort (Tela).
- Mid-range: Hotel Real InterContinental (San Pedro Sula), Hotel Plaza Juan Carlos (Tegucigalpa).
- Budget: The Blue Wave Inn (Roatán), Hostel Las Cascadas (La Ceiba).
Hostels:
- Hostel Monteverde (Tegucigalpa) offers a great social atmosphere.
- The Tranquil House (Utila) for budget-conscious travelers.
Airbnb/VRBO:
- Ideal for groups or long stays. Consider properties in Roatán or Copán Ruinas for more immersive local experiences.
Boutique Stays:
- The Lodge at Pico Bonito (La Ceiba) offers a nature-focused, tranquil escape.
Tip: For a more relaxed experience, stay near the coast, especially in the Bay Islands, where you’ll have access to pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe.
Getting Around
Honduras’ infrastructure is developing, but getting around is fairly straightforward with several options to explore its diverse landscapes.
Domestic Flights:
- The most efficient way to reach the Bay Islands (Roatán, Utila, and Guanaja) or to cover large distances across the country.
- Frequent flights from San Pedro Sula to La Ceiba and Roatán.
Buses:
- Intercity buses are affordable and cover major routes between cities (e.g., Tegucigalpa to San Pedro Sula).
- Long-distance travel by bus is common, with prices ranging from US$10–25 depending on the route.
Private Shuttles/Taxis:
- Available for more direct routes. Taxi fares vary, and shuttles are often used for tourist routes to the Bay Islands.
- Always agree on the fare before departure.
Car Rental:
- Renting a car is a good option for exploring the countryside and remote areas, though be mindful of road conditions in rural regions.
Boats:
- Frequent boat trips between the mainland and the Bay Islands. It’s essential to confirm schedules, especially during the rainy season.
Handy Tips
Honduras uses the Honduran Lempira (HNL), though US Dollars (US$) are also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas and large hotels. Bills come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 lempiras.
Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange booths due to poor rates. Use ATMs or local banks for fairer conversion (ATMs available in major cities and airports).
Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most urban areas and tourist hubs. Always carry cash in rural zones or for taxis, markets, and small eateries.
Tipping Etiquette:
Restaurants/Bars: 10–15% (check your bill—some restaurants include it).
Taxis/Rideshares: Tipping isn’t expected but rounding up is appreciated.
Hotel Staff: $1–2 per bag for porters; $2–3/day for housekeeping.
Tour Guides: $5–10 per person for group tours, more for private excursions.
Spanish is the official language. In tourist-heavy areas (e.g., Roatán), English is also widely spoken.
Handy phrases:
- “¿Dónde está la estación de buses más cercana?” (Where’s the nearest bus station?)
- “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much is it?)
- “¿Puedo recibir un recibo?” (Can I get a receipt?)
Pro Tip: Learning a few basic Spanish phrases goes a long way. Locals are friendly and appreciate the effort.
Honduras is safe in tourist areas, but exercise caution in cities like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula—avoid walking alone at night or carrying valuables.
Emergency Contacts:
- 911: Police, medical, and fire emergencies (national system).
- Ambulance (Red Cross): +504 2232-0202
- Your Embassy: Keep the location and contact number of your embassy or consulate with you.
Honduras uses 110V/60Hz electricity and Type A/B plugs (same as the U.S.).
Most travelers from North America won’t need adapters or converters.
Travelers from Europe/Asia will need a plug adapter, but not a voltage converter for phones/laptops.
Tap water is not safe to drink in most places.
Stick to bottled or filtered water (widely available and cheap).
Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth in rural areas.
Restaurants typically serve bottled water; always request sealed bottles.
Some attractions may close, especially outside of major cities, on:
Jan 1: New Year’s Day
Apr: Semana Santa (Holy Week – dates vary; expect closures + crowded beaches)
May 1: Labor Day
Sep 15: Independence Day
Oct 3rd week: Discovery of America Day
Dec 25: Christmas Day
Dec 31: New Year’s Eve
Note: Banks and government offices close during Holy Week (Easter), and public transport may be limited.
Shops/Malls: Typically open from 9:00 to 19:00, Monday–Saturday.
Markets: Early morning to early afternoon (especially in villages).
Pharmacies: Open until 20:00–22:00 in cities; some 24/7 chains exist.
Sunday closures are common in small towns and rural areas.
Baleadas: Thick flour tortillas folded over refried beans, cheese, cream—and sometimes avocado or eggs.
Sopa de Caracol: Conch soup with coconut milk, yuca, plantains, and spices—comforting coastal dish.
Pollo Chuco: Deep-fried chicken served with green bananas and pickled cabbage (Honduran street food at its best).
Tajadas con Carne Molida: Fried plantain chips topped with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and cabbage salad.
Tamales: Cornmeal parcels filled with chicken or pork, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Anafres: Melted cheese dip served in a small clay pot with tortilla chips—smoky and savory.
Yuca con Chicharrón: Fried yuca topped with crispy pork rinds and pickled vegetables.
Arroz con Leche: Creamy rice pudding with cinnamon—simple and sweet.
Tres Leches Cake: Sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk—decadent and moist.
Rosquillas en Miel: Corn-based donuts soaked in sugarcane syrup—traditional during Holy Week.
Alcoholic:
Salva Vida: Honduras’s flagship beer—light and easy to drink.
Imperial: A slightly stronger lager with a loyal local following.
Port Royal: Premium beer from Roatán—crisp, clean finish.
Gallo Pinto Aguardiente: Sugarcane liquor flavored with anise—bold and popular at festivals.
Vino de Coyol: Fermented sap from the coyol palm—rural, rare, and rustic.
Chicha de Maíz: Fermented corn drink with indigenous roots—slightly sour and traditional.
Rum Zacapa (from nearby Guatemala): Frequently served in upscale restaurants.
Non-Alcoholic:
Horchata de Arroz: Rice-based drink with cinnamon and vanilla.
Refresco de Tamarindo: Tangy tamarind juice served cold.
Agua de Piña: Fresh pineapple juice diluted with cold water.
Batido de Nance: Smoothie made with small yellow tropical fruit.
Licuado de Papaya: Blended papaya drink—perfect for breakfast.
Café Hondureño: Locally grown coffee, often strong and black—Honduras is a major exporter.
Fresco de Rosa de Jamaica: Hibiscus iced tea, tart and refreshing.
Garifuna Culture: Afro-Indigenous traditions, music (punta), and dance—recognized by UNESCO.
Mayan Legacy: Explore the artistry and history of Copán’s temples and sculptures.
Colonial Architecture: Walk through cobbled streets of Gracias or Comayagua.
Semana Santa (Holy Week): Ornate processions with sawdust carpets in Comayagua.
Handicrafts: Pick up Lenca pottery, hand-woven textiles, and wood carvings.
Traditional Music: Marimba, punta, and Spanish guitar feature in festivals.
Coffee Culture: Visit highland plantations in Santa Bárbara or Copán.
Honduran Independence Day: September 15—expect parades and folkloric shows.
Local Markets: Vibrant, colorful, and full of handmade goods (visit La Esperanza).
Cathedrals and Churches: The Cathedral of Tegucigalpa and the Basilica in Comayagua reflect the country’s deep Catholic roots.
Beaches in Roatán: West Bay for white sand, snorkeling, and diving.
Cayos Cochinos: Pristine Caribbean islands—ideal for island hopping.
Copán Ruins: Ancient Mayan city with stunning stelae and hieroglyphic stairs.
Lake Yojoa: Birdwatching, canoeing, and craft beer at D&D Brewery.
Pico Bonito National Park: Hiking, waterfalls, and wildlife near La Ceiba.
Utila: Backpacker-friendly island, dive schools, and laid-back vibes.
La Tigra National Park: Cloud forest trails just outside Tegucigalpa.
Garifuna Villages (e.g., Triunfo de la Cruz): Music, drumming, and seafood.
Tela Beaches: Quieter coastal retreat compared to Roatán or Utila.
Comayagua: Colonial town with a picturesque cathedral and historic clock.
Sundowners (Roatán): Legendary sunset bar on the beach—local beers and tropical cocktails.
Blue Marlin (Utila): Oceanfront bar with music and cheap rum drinks.
Club Tabú (San Pedro Sula): Popular nightclub with reggaeton, salsa, and DJs.
Café San Rafael (Copán Ruinas): Coffee by day, cocktails and tapas by night.
Bar Morazán (Tegucigalpa): Hip spot with local craft beers and Latin fusion cocktails.
Tranquila Bar (Utila): Backpacker favorite with theme nights and beachfront views.
La Cava del Duende (Tegucigalpa): Wine bar in an old colonial building—intimate and charming.
Tequila Mary’s (La Ceiba): Lively karaoke bar with shots and dancing until late.
Iron Horse Bar (Roatán): American-style pub with pool tables and cold Port Royal beers.
El Establo (San Pedro Sula): Country-themed bar with live banda and dancing.