Honduras

The Land of Rainforests
and Relics

Flag of Honduras

Honduras, located in Central America, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. The country boasts pristine Caribbean beaches on the Bay Islands, lush rainforests, and the Mayan ruins of Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its capital, Tegucigalpa, combines historical landmarks with modern energy.

Honduran culture is influenced by indigenous, African, and Spanish heritage, celebrated through traditional music, dance, and colorful festivals. The cuisine features dishes like baleadas (flour tortillas with beans and cheese) and fresh seafood. Honduras is a destination rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Honduras.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Honduras.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from these nations can enter Honduras with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, most EU countries).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from these nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Honduras (e.g., India, China – check specific requirements).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Honduras without an additional visa if from visa-exempt countries; otherwise, a visa is required.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a Honduran visa if from visa-exempt countries; otherwise, a visa is required.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa if from visa-exempt countries; check specific exemptions.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Honduras using only a valid national ID card:
    • CA-4 countries (El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua) under the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period, extendable with approval under the CA-4 agreement (up to 90 additional days).
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays (e.g., work/residency permits).
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions.
Toll

Driving in Honduras

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, the main toll road in Honduras is:

  • Carretera CA-5: Connecting Tegucigalpa to San Pedro Sula, with multiple toll points.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Honduran Road Authority website: https://www.infraestructura.gob.hn/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Honduran Lempira (HNL) is accepted at all toll booths; some may accept USD informally.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Rarely accepted at toll booths; cash is more reliable.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is being considered but not widely implemented. Check https://www.infraestructura.gob.hn/ for updates.

Driving in Honduras

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution, especially on rural roads or during rainy seasons in mountainous areas.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license; foreign licenses are valid for up to 90 days.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Honduras is considering implementing a vignette system for road use. Check https://www.infraestructura.gob.hn/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Honduras has been improving road safety, but remain vigilant, especially at night or in areas with heavy traffic or poor infrastructure.
  • GPS and Maps: While GPS is generally reliable, keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially in remote areas like the Moskitia region.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 911 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Honduras Currency

The official currency of Honduras is the Honduran Lempira (HNL).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 HNL
  • Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 centavos
  • Symbol: L (sometimes written as HNL)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels. U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas like Roatán.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct HNL withdrawals (some dispense USD).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small businesses.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash (HNL or USD) for small purchases and rural areas; small denominations are useful.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Honduras website: https://www.bch.hn/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Honduras

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Honduras, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces (enforcement varies).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing gang violence or border disputes with Belize casually.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention in rural areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or critical infrastructure (e.g., bases, borders). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in indigenous communities like the Garifuna or Lenca.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., turtle items).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Honduran Tourism Institute (IHT) or Consumer Protection Agency.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated in major tourist areas like Roatán (enforcement varies).

Key Resources

Honduras Travel Safety

Honduras has safety challenges for travellers due to crime in some areas, but tourist zones are generally safe with a reputation for natural beauty. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is possible in crowded areas like markets or public transport in Tegucigalpa or San Pedro Sula. Violent crime against tourists is rare in tourist zones (e.g., Bay Islands) but higher in certain urban areas; exercise caution.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Honduras is considered safe in tourist areas with precautions; locals are often hospitable. Avoid isolated areas at night, especially in urban centers.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poor rural road conditions.
    • Avoid night driving in mountainous areas like the Copán region.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country or visiting jungle areas like Moskitia.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases:
    • Use insect repellent to guard against dengue, Zika, or malaria in coastal and rural regions.
  • Altitude Sickness:
    • Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Celaque National Park at 2,849 meters). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Hospital CEMESA in San Pedro Sula offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications; bring supplies for rural stays.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 911 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 911 | Fire: 911 | Police: 911.
  • Tourist Police (Tegucigalpa): +504 2232 4092.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas like Gracias. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing gang issues or politics.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be moderate in Tegucigalpa; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Honduras

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