travel tips to honduras

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:

My 1 Week Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary

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?

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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.

Explore related stories

Public Transport

Aug 15, 2024 • 11 min read

To take in Guatemala’s pyramids, ruins, jungles, volcanoes and thriving Mayan culture, you’ll need to take to the road. Here’s how to get around.

Jun 25, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 8, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 6, 2024 • 6 min read

Dec 26, 2023 • 7 min read

Jun 28, 2022 • 7 min read

Mar 19, 2022 • 8 min read

Jul 30, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 7, 2024 • 3 min read

Dec 10, 2023 • 7 min read

The ultimate guide to Honduras: 10 days itinerary

Slightly spontaneously we decided to hit Honduras during our trip last November and December. We had heard about the superb diving possibilities around the Bay Islands, which was enough reason to take the plunge and to include the country in the Latin American itinerary. 

I really loved our time in Honduras. The trip was way more relaxed than I expected it to be plus the things to do over there are just super diverse. Jungle adventures, marine life, friendly locals, Mayan culture, abundant wildlife, gorgeous beaches; this country has it all and its citizens really deserve a better future. 

Guidebooks won’t do for up-to-date info about Honduras. Personally I looked for bits and pieces online, talked to a lot of other backpackers and expats in Honduras and that’s how I created this itinerary. So I’m gonna smash it online now; just to make things a little easier for you! 

First things first. I realize that Honduras doesn’t exactly have an immaculate reputation. Diving and crime; probably those two words used to be my first association when thinking of Honduras. Figures will show you Honduras is one of Central America’s most dangerous countries after all. And yet, we noticed very little of all of that. Except for the diving; superb indeed.

I wouldn’t recommend this country to your niece though. You know; the one that is about to start her first backpack journey (I’m only thinking about my own self in here when I was 19), but if you think you’ve passed the ‘rookie-phase’, I’d say go for it. Just plan a tad in advance and have a plan B ready. That never hurts anyway. In La Ceiba I even needed a plan C, when I found out that the hotel I planned to go to (in case I’d miss the boat, which I did) didn’t exist anymore. Suddenly I was dropped at sunset in a city that I didn’t know at all. Not the best situation to start first day in Honduras with. 

But anyway, all of these spots below are very well reachable. If you don’t deviate from the main important stops in the country and stick to the transportation I recommend you to go with (next paragraph) I think you’ll be good. 

• Copán is super safe. So safe that we in fact were able to walk over there at night. We can’t even do that in Costa Rica.
• La Ceiba was totally different, it felt kind of sketchy and I wasn’t too pleased to stay over there. I was forced to though, since I missed the ferry ride to Roatán, but I wouldn’t recommend this city personally. Especially the suburbs can be dangerous. If you have to stay there book a hotel downtown.
• Regarding San Pedro Sula (at some point known the city was also known as the world’s capital of crime) I can only say; the bus station is safe. I drove through the city twice and it seemed quite okay, but obviously that doesn’t say enough. I personally wouldn’t stay there. 
• Roatán  felt super safe to me

Of course my experiences aren’t a blueprint. This is just how I perceived things, but they might give you an impression nonetheless.

With regard to safety this paragraph might help you out as well. 

I personally arrived in Honduras after a very long shuttle drive from Río Dulce in Guatemala to La Ceiba in Honduras. I organised this via  Rooney Shuttle Service . Although I wasn’t too pleased about the speed of the ride (I waited for hours that day, both during the early morning pick-up and later on the day when they were switching shuttles), in general I would recommend this shuttle service as it felt safe to me. And that’s something pleasant too, when in Honduras. Better late than sorry.

From La Ceiba to Copán we again arranged the drive via Rooney. We had a super nice driver this time and he telling us all about his previous life in the States and the situation in Honduras. Perhaps this conversation was one of the best insights we got during our stay in Honduras.  

Regarding Roatán : you’re able to reach the island either via boat or via plane. From La Ceiba I took the ferry ($33,- USD, it goes twice a day; check the schedule in here ) to Roatán. 

The ferry ride to the island was very choppy. Two staff members were handing out plastic bags and after I couple of minutes I realised what they were for… 

My husband on the other hand arrived by airplane . From Central America you can fly from both El Salvador and San Pedro Sula to the island. And if you come from the east from both the USA and Canada you might even be able to fly directly to the island. What a luxury!

Regarding leaving Honduras: we both took a flight from Guatemala City. But note that getting there from Copán took us 7 hours (instead of the 5 we were told). Another option we were considering was the airport of San Pedro Sula. 

Overview itinerary:

5 days on the island of Roatán for a chilled stay + beach bumming + excellent diving + great food

2 days in Omega Lodge along Río Cangrejal in the Pico Bonito park for adrenaline adventures + jungle vibes

3 days in Copán Ruinas for Mayan culture + spa relaxation + chocolate indulgement

If you have extra days:

3 days on the island of Utila for an extra change to see that whaleshark

3 days along the Lago de Yojoa in the D&D Brewery for kayaking + hiking + cave dwelling

Itinerary in detail:

Here we go!

5 days: Roatán

Excellent diving & stunning sunsets – the island of Roatán in front of the coast of Honduras was a winner for sure in my book.

Roatán isn’t the only island you can visit from La Ceiba. Utila , Guanaja and Cayos Cochinos attract visitors too. All four of them are basically like the quintessential tropical dream.

Since we only had a couple of days we knew we couldn’t see them all and we had to make a choice which one we would visit. Both Guanaja and Cayos Cochinos are difficult to reach. These islands don’t have regular shuttle services. I’m aware that because of this, staying at one of these islands can be very attractive. But you also have to bring in a LOT of dough, not only to reach the islands but also to stay there, plus you’re very dependent on the efforts of others. 

So our choice was narrowed down to Roatán and Utila .

Utila is known as a party island, attracting a lot of early twenty backpackers. This has to do with the fact that Utila is also the cheapest island to stay at.  Roatán attracts a far more midrange crowd than Utila, and unfortunately has less budget options. The island’s accommodation mostly comes in the form of luxury resort packages, but there are some good budget options and even better; we’ve found them for you! 

Both Roatán and Utila are known as superb diving destinations. It was the main reason why we wanted to visit these islands, plus doing a fair share or ‘hammocking’. Because I really wanted to chill and not being disturbed by late night vomiting vibes, ánd because one of us had to fly to the Bay Islands and Roatán has the best airport, we decided visit Roatán first and see if we would later make it to Utila as well. But we liked Roatán and its laid-back vibe so much that we decided to stay over there for the rest of the time! 

Where to stay on Roatán?

Nearly all backpackers that visit Roatán find their temporary home in West End , where most of the budget options are found. 

If you’re looking for a private budget cabin then I’d absolutely recommend Hotel Chillies . Note that I’m not getting paid or anything to write this down. I just really liked the property, especially its location directly along the shores and its lovely jungle garden ↓

I you want to book a dorm spot, room or cabin as well in here, try to contact Michele (the owner of Hotel Chillies) directly via Facebook . We stayed for four nights in here and paid $36,- USD per night for a private cabin with a warm shower. 

The cabin had a lovely porch with a hammock, a lot of (humming)birds that kept us company during the day and during the night we were surprised by a cute (and very noisy) armadillo! 

The only thing I disliked about the cabin was the bathroom: it didn’t have a door! Just a curtain. Not the best idea if you’re looking for a romantic getaway…

What to do on Roatán?

I wrote an entire guide about the island, so check that stuff out in here!

2 days: Rafting + jungle adventures @ Río Cangrejal near Pico Bonito  

After our ultimate chill-out-beach-bum-hammock-style kind of stay on the island of Roatán, we were absolutely ready for some adventure time on Honduras mainland. 

Luckily for us, quite close to La Ceiba there’s this giant and slightly under-appreciated national park of Pico Bonito (meaning in English: ‘pretty little point’). It takes an hour on a bumpy road to get from La Ceiba to this wilderness, which is home to loads of monkeys, birds, reptiles and even some jaguars.  

While being on Roatán we were advised by several expats to stay at the Omega Lodge , an eco-lodge located along the Río Cangrejal in between both Pico Bonito and the park of Nombre de Dios (“Name of god”). 

The lodge is run by a couple from Germany, Udo and Sylvia, who already came to the area some 25 years ago. Udo was a member of the national German rafting team and always on the lookout for great rapids. He found his ultimate river paradise in Honduras and decided not only to offer whitewash rafting tours in the area, but also to built a lodge from scratch to hosts his rafting visitors. And the couple has been expanding their property with cabins ever since. 

Fresh food, a lush environment, awesome canopying and rafting, some jungle trails and playful dogs; this place had it all in my opinion! Our stay in here was absolutely superb and a nice addition to our days on the beach. Read more about our rafting adventure and stay at Omega Lodge!

Note that from La Ceiba it takes a full day to reach the next location from La Ceiba. 

3 days: Copán Ruinas

Meet the cosiest town of Honduras: Copán! We stayed there for a couple of days on our way from La Ceiba in Honduras to Antigua in Guatemala and I have to say; it’s difficult not to fall in love with the cobblestoned streets of Copán. The nearby crumbling Mayan ruins dot the outskirts of the city and clearly point to the cultural past as well.

The vibe in Copán is entirely different compared to the rest of Honduras (or at least, the parts that I’ve seen). Copán feels much more Guatemalan and considering that is almost next to the border Guatemalan-Honduran border that ain’t a surprise. It’s basically like they have cut of a little part out of Antigua and put it on a hill in a lush mountainous environment.

Most folks come here just to see the famous Maya ruins, but there’s a lot of other fun stuff to do in Copán. If you want to see and do all of the things below, try to linger a little longer; at least three days I’d say. Otherwise two would be the bare minimum. Or one if you just want to see the ruins and get out after that. 

Here’s what to do and where to eat in Copán!

Where to stay in Copán?

There are quite some downtown budget options. We checked out Hotel Via Via (for just $10,- USD per private room with private bathroom!!), which looked great. However, since it’s located next to the only club in town I wouldn’t advise you to go there in the weekend. Even earplugs won’t help you in here. 

We stayed at the nearby Iguana Azul (private room for $19,- USD, shared bathroom. Dorms are available as well), which was basic but very decent and had a laid-back backpackers vibe. The great thing about this hotel is the next doors breakfast area, which is set in a very laid-back and lush garden. ↓

Extend that itinerary!

If I had another 6 days I would have stayed 3 more days on the island of Utila (or perhaps more days on Roatán since I loved it so much…) just to include even more dives. 

Another location I would absolutely would have visited is the Lago de Yojoa ! I heard a lot of nice stories from other backpackers about this lake and especially about the ho(s)tel B&B Brewery. Apparently the lake is great for hiking, to do a coffee tour, a bit of kayaking and cave-dwelling. I’m sure a stay over here would make a trip to Honduras even more diverse! 

Here’s where to find the spots in Honduras: 

Tags: activities , afro caribbean , animals , bay islands , beach , brewery , central america , copan , copan ruinas , D&D , daytrip , dive , diving , hike , hiking , honduras , itinerary , la ceiba , maya , national park , native sons , nature , omega , omega lodge , outdoor , photos , rafting , rio cangrejal , roatan , ruins , things to do , tiny travelogue , tour , tours , trail , travel , utila , west end , what to do , what to see , where to go , where to stay , wildlife

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Related posts:

DRONE + GoPro ALERT! Flying above and diving under Roatán, Honduras

Looking for the best diving location in Central America? You may just find it in one of the most unlikely places: Honduras! Slightly spontaneously we decided to hit Honduras during

A guide to Roatán, that slice of paradise in Honduras

For a short week we stayed along the lovely western shores of Roatán; one of the Bay Islands located 50 km in front of the Caribbean coast of Honduras.  Roatán

Our jungle adventures at Pico Bonito in Honduras

After our ultimate chill-out-beachbum-hammock-style kind of stay on the island of Roatán (more information about that coming up!), we were absolutely ready for some adventure time on Honduras mainland.  Luckily

Follow on Instagram:

Subscribe to blog via email

You like to receive travel updates in your inbox? Subscribe in here!

Email Address

The Tiny Travelogue on FB

Honduras Travel Guide

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

Your ultimate 2-week Honduras itinerary – The best things to do on vacation in Honduras

Sharing is caring!

Welcome to the most underrated and under-visited country in Central America, Honduras. If you’re here, you’re probably thinking about visiting this beautiful country, and we’re here to tell you that you’re in for a real treat! Most people avoid Honduras, thinking it’s super dangerous, but the truth is, for smart travelers, it’s a paradise. There are so many things to do for all types of visitors, regardless of what you’re into or your budget. So here’s the best way to spend your 2-week vacation in Honduras.

This itinerary will take you through the highlights, the must-see’s of Honduras, while also making sure you get off the beaten path. Feel free to take this 2-week Honduras itinerary and make it your own. As much for the cities as for the things to do. It should only serve as a backbone of the actual trip you want to craft for yourself.

Before you head to Honduras, make sure you check out our article about everything you need to know about visiting this country. We cover everything from safety in Honduras to travel costs, food, water safety and much more.

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

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

We thank you again for your continued support. 

🏠 Find the perfect place to stay with  Booking.com

✈️ Get the cheapest flights with Skyscanner

🚣 Book your favorite activities with Viator

💻 Make sure you have everything you need for your epic trip by checking our store on Amazon

Table of Contents

When to go on vacation in Honduras

If you’re planning a vacation in Honduras, you want to have the best weather possible. And you’re in luck because the weather is flexible in Honduras!

The timing on the rainy and dry seasons depends on which area of the country you’re visiting. The majority of the country’s dry season spans from November until April. This coincides with high tourist season if you can even call it ‘high’… Rainy season falls between May and October, but even then, it’s usually sparse, and often comes in bursts in the afternoon or early evening.

We went at the end of April/early May, for three weeks overall and had perfect weather! None of the sights or beaches were crowded. We only saw rain once, in Rio Cangrejal. It lasted about 2 hours, an early morning. The rest of the time, it was sunny and hot. So, make sure you pick your 2 weeks vacation in Honduras accordingly so the weather doesn’t cramp your style!

Budget considerations for Honduras

The currency used in Honduras is the Lempira. When you head to the islands, like Utila and Roatan, the US dollar is the currency of choice. This is especially true in Roatan, where cruise ships come by on most weekdays.

Although Honduras is not a very expensive country, because there’s a lack of tourism infrastructure, the cheap backpacker budget options are a little pricier than other parts of the world. However, you can still get by on a tight budget.

There are also a ton of higher-end options. Beautiful boutique hotels and lovely restaurants in every city we visited. However, forget the heels and blazers. You’re still in the Caribbean. Chill vibes only!

Cost of meals in Honduras

Meals will cost anywhere from $2 USD to upwards of $15 or more per course. Obviously, it depends on what you order. Local meals are cheaper than “tourist” meals like pizza or burgers. It’s important to know that once you get on the islands, things are a bit more expensive as they have to be brought in from the mainland. If you’re looking to be more eco-friendly , eat local and in-season in every city or island. Also, opt for a plant-based meal when you can.

Cost of accommodations in Honduras

As for accommodations , during the low season, you can find dorms for $10/15 USD per night, while private rooms in 3-star hotels (or inns) with AC and a private bathroom will set you back about $25 USD a night. The more expensive rooms can go for $100 to $300 USD on the mainland. They go up a little more on the islands. But the biggest spike in prices is during the high season.

Your 2-week Honduras itinerary

If you’re planning on spending 2 weeks in Honduras, your best option is to fly in and out of San Pedro Sula. It’s Honduras’ 2nd largest city after the capital of Tegucigalpa.

Once you get in, there’s no need to stay in the city. As most large Central American cities, there aren’t many things to do and they’re slightly more sketchy at times. Nothing to fear really, but also, not much worth noting. Even locals often leave the big cities, to settle in smaller, more quaint areas. That’s where the fun is!

Day 1 – Getting to Copan from San Pedro Sula

Your flight will probably get in before noon. If you can make it there before 10:30 am, you can hop on the Hedman Alas bus to Copan . If not, from the airport, grab a taxi (about $20USD) and get to the main bus station of San Pedro Sula, called Terminal Metropolitana de Buses.

From there, you can find an express (or quicker) bus that will take you to Copan Ruinas . We took the Casasola Express which took a little over four hours and cost 120 lempiras (about $5 USD per person). It had air conditioning and somewhat comfy seats… although after so long, no seat is really comfortable. Be sure not to grab the local bus as it will stop in every little town and make the ride to Copan so much longer!

You’ll get to Copan in the afternoon so take some time to unwind and walk around to get to know the city.

Spend three days in Copan during your vacation in Honduras

This is the perfect city to kick off your 2 weeks in Honduras. Copan is a lovely little city with a laid back vibe. It’ll give you a chance to get over your jetlag and start exploring the country. It has some beautiful architecture with cobblestone streets that are steep but oh-so-cute.

Central Park is really the heart of the city. You can spend hours people-watching there as young and old meet on a daily basis, just to shoot the shit. Chill vibes only here too.

You’ll see couples walking around. Kids enjoying their ice cream or playing ball. Old cowboys crossing the park with stoic looks across their faces. The only scary thing about the city is the tuk-tuk ride going up and down the steep streets.

Although there’s not a ton of things to do in Copan , there are quite a few sights worth seeing. The obvious musts are the Copan Ruinas archeological sight, the famous Mayan ruins. With your ticket, which costs $15 USD, you can choose what you want to see. We recommend the Ruins and the Sepulturas. The digital museum is also worth checking out if you have the time and budget. We would not recommend getting a guide. They cost about $30 for groups of 2-4 people.

Other things you can do in Copan are a coffee tour, check out the Tea and Chocolate place, the Luna Jaguar Spa, and Macaw Mountain.

Also, we highly recommend doing a tour with BaseCamp Outdoor Adventures . Heraldo will take you to see a part of Copan tourists rarely see and give you the background on the reality of the locals. The best way to book this tour is to go to the Viavia restaurant/hotel and book in person.

There are a ton of places to stay in Copan . You’ll find something for every budget. On average, a room for two with AC will cost about $25USD including breakfast.

Take two days in Tela in your Honduras itinerary

In the morning, grab a bus from Copan to Tela. You can either opt for a shuttle that will set you back about $40 USD per person but will take you door-to-door. It takes about 4-5 hours. Because we were there during short-lived protests, this was the only way we could get to Tela.

Another easy way to get to Tela is to take an express bus that will take you to San Pedro Sula’s main station. There, you can grab another bus to Tela. This will only cost about $10 USD per person but can take pretty much all day. Again, do what feels good to enjoy your time and still stick to your budget.

Tela is a vibrant beach town. It’s a melting pot of people and cultures, as it used to be one of the main Garifuna towns. Unfortunately, over-tourism and hotel expansions pushed the majority of the Garifuna out.

The city still has a fun vibe, though there is still a laid back feeling to it. The people are just as kind as in any city we went to in Honduras. They’re eager to talk to you and give you their best recommendations so you can see why their city is just a little better than the rest.

In Tela, there’s not a ton of things to do. Be sure to check out the Punta Sal national park, enjoy the beaches, and walk around the park and boardwalk by the beach. You can also check out the Lancetta botanical gardens, though we heard mixed reviews about this. You can also go to the Garifuna Museum to get a full picture of the culture.

Tela is not that big, but there is still a good offering of places to stay here. You’ll find smaller family-run hotels by the beach, and even larger resort hotels. We like the more personal touch of the smaller hotels where we get to chat with locals and get all the best recommendations.

Spend two days in Rio Cangrejal during your 2 weeks in Honduras

From Tela, getting to La Ceiba will take about two hours by direct bus . The cost is about $5 USD per person for a large air-conditioned bus with security. Because La Ceiba is the third-largest city in the country, security is slightly heightened. Although we never felt like we were in danger at any point in time, regardless of where we were in the country. As always, just be a vigilant traveler and you will be just fine!

From there, you can ask your hotel to come to pick you up in a private car to take you to your place. The cost of the shuttle should be about $15 USD per car, accommodating 4 people.

There is also a public bus that goes up to Rio Cangrejal, though you’ll have to go through a military checkpoint to get to your destination. You’ll also need to walk a bit to your accommodations.

Rio Cangrejal is the perfect nature adventure getaway. As the name suggests, it’s situated on the river, in the heart of Pico Bonito national park. You have two good options here: either jump into all the nature activities you can find, or take the time to unwind in the heart of the park. After all, this is your 2-week vacation, so do what feels right!

In Rio Cangrejal, there are two main things to do: white water rafting or hiking. You can navigate through the river in level 3 and 4 rapids, or you can hike one of the many Pico Bonito National park trails. These trails will give you gorgeous views and take you to some amazing waterfalls. They’re bigger in the wet season.

As for the hikes, they’re epic. With lush forest, epic waterfalls, and amazing views of the surrounding mountains, they are worth every minute of it. Even if it’s super hot and sweaty out there!

Take three days in Utila during your vacation in Honduras

Utila is a small island off the coast of Honduras. It’s a 45-minute ferry ride from La Ceiba. The ferry will set you back about $35 USD (including your ticket and port fee) per person. If you have motion sickness or aren’t great on boats, just be sure you ask for some motion sickness pills as the sea can sometimes get really bumpy. You can ask the ferry company for some, as they do have them available.

Once you get to Utila , kick off your shoes (or your flip flops) and embrace the island life. Young twenty-somethings rule this island. Most are here to get their scuba certification and party. But you don’t need to partake if you don’t want to, there are a ton of other things to do.

However, it should be known that Utila is the cheapest place in the world to get your scuba certification. Even cheaper than Koh Tao ! The Open water PADI course will cost you about $300 USD and the advanced course will be about $330. Individual fun dives will cost anywhere from $30 to $40, with all the gear included. A real steal!

Utila is tiny enough that you can see most of it in 3 days. Though if you have the time, and truly want to embrace island life, take more time here and slowly coast through the things to do and see. Here are a few things you can do on Utila, but if you want the full list of fun things to do, make sure you check out our complete guide here .

Utila has two main beaches, a private and a public one. There is another one, but you need a motorized mode of transportation to get there (think ATV, as the roads are quite bumpy).

You can climb up Pumpkin hill, check out the cliffs and spend the most time underwater as you possibly can, either snorkeling or scuba diving. If you’re into animal tourism and looking for some different things to do, you can also look into doing some volunteer work with one of the many amazing conservation organizations on the island.

If you want to relax in a white sand and palm tree paradise, you can take a day trip to Water Cay. Here you can relax some more, go snorkeling or just catch some rays. Make sure to bring yourself a few beers and snacks because there isn’t anywhere here to buy food or drinks on the island. It’s a beautiful patch of sand in the middle of a blue sea.

If what you’re looking for is a more local vibe, especially if you are looking to buy yourself a nice fish to cook up, make sure you head to Jewel Cay on your way back from Water Cay. There, you’ll be supporting a local family who line-fishes. We don’t usually support eating animal products , but if you’re going to do it, best get it from an ethical source.

But whatever you do, please just relax! You’re on one of the most chill places on Earth!

Spend your last three days in Roatan

As your 2-week Honduran trip comes to an end, what better place to do it than another chill island. Getting to Roatan is easy enough. Jump on another 40-minute ferry from Utila. Again, the waters can get quite bumpy, so make sure you’re prepared. And get ready, because there are so many things to do in Roatan!

West End is probably the best place you can stay in Roatan . It’s where the action is, but it’s far enough from the cruisers that come in during the week.

Roatan is one of the major stops on the Caribbean cruise lines, so expect to see crowds come in and out of the city during weekdays. Weekends are for locals! Expect peace and quiet during this time.

If you’re looking to relax at the end of your two-week trip to Honduras, try to time your arrival with the weekend. This is your best bet to have peace and quiet, but especially, to have the island and all its beauty to yourself.

Most cruisers will go to West Bay, a short $3 USD water taxi ride from West End. With pristine waters and white sands, it’s understandable why people flock here. If you plan on going there, make sure you do it over a weekend as weekdays see the beach crowded with cruisers (as in people who come on cruise ships).

However, West End is where you’ll find more reasonable accommodations , expats, dive shops and delicious restaurants… and a few beaches as well.

No matter what you do, please avoid animal tourism while on this island. Unlike in Utila, the animals in Roatan are held captive for human entertainment. Animals are not on this earth to entertain us, so avoid seeing the prisoner dolphins, jaguars, monkeys and pigs that resorts keep here. Instead, choose to support a local business that is helping the community and the planet.

While on the island, make sure you go scuba diving, a great way to support the eco-marine park. You’ll see some marine animals in the wild, as it should be. Although it’s slightly more expensive than in Utila. It’s still a great price, anywhere from $40 to $50. There are a ton of different dives sites to discover, including some wrecks. You can also check out the Garifuna culture in Punta Gorda, or swim in the underwater museum.

There’s some great live music you can check out at Beacher’s or at Sun Downers’. Plus, you can tour the local brewery and the Roatan Chocolate factory for some delicious treats. All great ways to support local businesses.

Again, you’re on an island, so just take it easy and enjoy living the slow and simple life! Sure, there are things to do, but there’s also time to chill. This is the end of your 2-week vacation after all.

Heading back home from Roatan

From Roatan, you can make your way back to San Pedro by flying on a tiny plane or going the eco-friendly way of taking a ferry to La Ceiba, and a bus from there to San Pedro. Your choice will probably depend on how long you have left before your flight home.

And there you have it! Your 2 weeks in Honduras have sadly come to an end. If you’re like us, you’re probably wondering where the time went, and why it took you so long to come to this beautiful country in the first place. You’ll probably also wonder why there aren’t more tourists around (though it’s always great when these places stay under the radar).

Sustainable travel and ecotourism during your vacation in Honduras

As always, we want to be sure everyone practices sustainable travel in Honduras , and all over the world. That’s why we always share these tips to help you travel in the most eco-friendly way possible! Ecotourism is so important because it helps lower our carbon footprint, it helps travel become less of a burden on the environment, and it helps preserve our beautiful planet, so future generations can explore the beauty of the world.

Here are our tips to help you practice sustainable travel in Honduras:

• Bring reusable water bottles and coffee mug: Tap water in Honduras is not safe to drink. So make sure you bring a filtration water bottle that you can fill up (we always have our Grayl GeoPress or the Lifestraw Go with us!) This is the best way to reduce your plastic consumption and to sustainably travel all over the world! Also, many hotels offer drinking water, so be sure to bring a reusable water bottle with you.
• Eat as local and vegan as you can: This is the easiest way to reduce your environmental footprint. Eat as much local produce and food as possible, and especially, eat all the vegan options you can! It’s a delicious and easy way to reduce your carbon footprint.
• Support small local restaurants and eateries: If you eat out, make sure you go to locally-owned restaurants. Avoid big chains or restaurants owned by conglomerates. Go off-the-beaten-path with your restaurant choice by asking locals for their best recommendations. Sometimes, the best meals we had in Honduras were street food or from hole-in-the-wall eateries.
• Bring your own bags and refuse plastic bags: Like most places, they still offer plastic bags in grocery stores, at the local markets, and at various shops. So bring your own bag and do your little step to promote ecotourism in Honduras and to save our beautiful planet!
• Walk around: We walked all around Honduras and the cities we visited. We had a great time getting lost in the streets. It helped that our hotels were so centrally located to all the main attractions.
• Use the local buses to get around Honduras: Another great way to cover long distances in Honduras, if you’re traveling from town to town, is to use the local buses . There are different categories of busses but most are clean, spacious, comfortable, and very safe. They’re the most eco-friendly way of getting around!
• Stay in eco-hotels or small locally-owned hotels in Honduras: Another great way to promote ecotourism in Honduras is to stay in smaller, locally-owned hotels, or better yet, to stay in eco-hotels. There are a ton of great options available, so make sure you check these options first !
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen : There are a ton of beautiful beaches in Honduras, which is why this tip is important. Make sure you always wear reef-safe sunscreen , whether you’re sunbathing or out on a scuba trip. It’s much better for the health of our oceans!

Safety in Honduras

We couldn’t help ourselves and answer the one question we know most everyone will ask. “Is Honduras safe?” The simple answer is YES! Not once in our 25 days in Honduras did we feel like we were in danger.

Yes, we were careful with our belongings and made sure not to stay out too late, but that’s exactly what we do wherever we go. We didn’t see any of the violence or dangerous situations you see in the news about Honduras.

The precautions we took were simple. We weren’t flashy with our things (camera, jewelry, etc.). We didn’t stay out super late. We didn’t try to buy drugs. We didn’t pick fights with people. Does this sound pretty standard? Well, that’s because it is! Just use your common sense, and you’ll be just fine!

Your two week itinerary in Honduras

There you have it. The perfect 2-week vacation in Honduras. As we mentioned before, use this as the draft for your trip. If there’s certain things that don’t suit the type of travel you’re looking for, just change it so it’s best for you. We adore scuba diving, so we spent more time on the islands, where we can dive as often as possible.

To recap, here’s how to spend 2 weeks in Honduras:

• Copan – 3 days
• Tela – 2 days
• Rio Cangrejal – 2 days
• Utila – 3 days
• Roatan – 3 days

Honduras really surprised us, because of the diversity it had to offer. From the Mayan Ruins to the Garifuna Culture, the beautiful national parks, and the pristine islands. It really has so many things to do for everyone. The people here are some of the kindest we’ve met, despite it being the “most dangerous country in the world”.

One thing is for sure, we left Honduras with amazing memories, having met the sweetest locals and most fun expats, all while seeing the coolest fish yet!

Let us know in the comments if this article made you want to visit Honduras on your next vacation. What are you most excited to do?

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.

You Might Also Like:

10 fun things to do in copan, honduras – a complete city guide.

Top 32 free things to do in Rome on a budget. The best free attractions in Rome

26 amazing beaches in Central America you have to discover

Thank you for a well written informative blog. Thank you for caring for the animals and being a voice for them. Keep up the good work and happy travels!

Thank you so much Rupal! We hope you enjoy your trip to Honduras. And it’s our absolute pleasure to care for animals. We have to take care of the others we share this beautiful planet with!

This is such a great guide! I am planning a 6-month trip through Central America soon and was thinking of skipping Honduras but you have convinced me it’s worth a visit. Great to see travel guides from other vegan travellers.

Amazing! Honduras is definitely underrated, but well worth the visit! Enjoy it! And stay tuned because we have a ton of Central America content coming – we’re just finishing up our 7 months here

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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.

Let’s keep in touch!

Sign up for our newsletter to get our free e-book as well as our latest updates, travel recommendations, eco-friendly advice, inspiration, good vibes and so much more.

Thanks, see you in your inbox!

How to build a micro-influencer media kit – Step-by-step instructions for new content creators

Big or small, every influencer or content creator needs a media kit. They’re a part of the essential tools you need if you want to collaborate with brands. All too often, they're poorly made and lack the important information brands need to know that they HAVE TO work...

31 easy ways to go plastic-free

For July, we joined hundreds of million people around the world to go plastic-free. Our goal was to avoid all plastic for #plasticfreejuly. During the whole month, we shared our tips with our Instagram community to help them ditch plastic too. These are our 31 easy...

Follow us on Social Media

• ALL TRAVEL GUIDES
• DESTINATION FILTER

TOP OF PAGE

Quick Facts

Best Time To Go

Cost & Spending

Travel Tips

Regions & Highlights

What To See & Do

Itineraries

What To Eat

Where To Stay

Trip Planning

Welcome traveler!

We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and  since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

L earn more  about us !

Thank you for visiting and we hope you find value in our destination pages! ​We thoroughly research and curate all content ourselves and everything you find on this site is put together by only the two of us.

HONDURAS TRAVEL GUIDE

Honduras – a land not frequented by the tourist for reasons of its tumultuous political upheavals and also the devastation caused by Hurricane Mitch in 1998 – is slowly limping back to normal. The lush rain-forests, the alpine ridges and charming little coastal towns all beckon the traveller to come and explore this land. Its rich cultural heritage found in the spectacular Mayan ruins of Copan are second only to Chichen Itza in Mexico.

Honduras is a Central American country with Caribbean Sea coastlines to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. In the tropical rain-forest near Guatemala, the ancient Mayan ceremonial site Copán has stone-carved hieroglyphics and stelae (tall stone monuments.) In the Caribbean Sea are the Bay Islands, a diving destination that's part of the 1,000 km-long Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR HONDURAS?

<<VISA RESULT>>

<< Visa Details >>

For the latest requirements or for application click

Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.

⬇️ REGIONAL GUIDES ⬇️

Travel guide.

⬇️ COUNTRY GUIDE ⬇️

ADVERTISEMENT

• Capital : Tegucigalpa
• Currency : lempira (HNL)
• Area : 112,090km²
• Population : 9,588 million (2018)
• Language : Spanish, Creole English on the eastern coast, Amerindian dialects
• Religion :Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant minority
• Electricity : 110V, 60Hz (two-prong North American plug)

Hondurans are fairly easy-going, and it's unusual for them to be easily upset or annoyed by foreigners not knowing cultural norms.

It's polite to greet people in Spanish when you first see them each day: buenas días (in the morning), buenas tardes (after midday) or buenas noches (after dark). Men tend to shake hands when they meet. Women often embrace one another, but they tend to remain on nodding terms with men, unless they know them well.

• 14 April, Pan-American Day
• 1 May, Labor Day
• 15 September, Independence Day
• 3 October, Francisco Morazan Holiday
• 12 October, Día de la Raza
• 21 October, Army Day

Also, Semana Santa (Holy Week) from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, especially Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday.

La Feria de San Isidro - (May) Honduras’ largest fiesta takes place in the streets and clubs of La Ceiba, culminating in late May with 250,000 people attending parades. Costumed dancers and revelers fill the city to bursting.

Sun Jam - (early August) This tech party, set on a tiny desert island off Utila, features electronic DJs of global repute.

QUICK BOOKING RESOURCES

SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

Shoulder Season

Off Peak Season

BEST TIME TO VISIT HONDURAS

The climate in Honduras is hot and tropical in the coastal lowlands, with annual temperatures averaging 26°–29°C; it becomes more temperate in the highlands, where annual temperatures average 16°–24°C. Average annual precipitation is lowest in the central mountainous interior (800–2000 mm) and highest in the Caribbean coast (+2,000 mm), where rainfall is year-round.

The Pacific coast and interior highlands have a dry season (summer) from November to April and a wet season (winter) from May to October that experiences a short break (1–4 weeks) in July/August. The Bay Islands have a slightly different timetable from the mainland, with the rainy season running from July through January and the dry from February to July.

• October to February - Rainy season on the north coast and islands but dry in the interior.
• March to April - Hot and dry everywhere, with temperatures soaring inland.
• June to September - Peak season for viewing whale sharks in Utila.

BEST TIME FOR:

Snow Sports

The best time for outdoor activities in Honduras is during the dry season, from November to April. Don miss spotting a quetzal in the cloud forests around Lago de Yojoa or near the peak of Montaña de Santa Barbara.

The beaches in Honduras are particularly beautiful from December to April when there is little to no rain, and the weather is just right. If you're visiting between May and November, you'll have better weather on the Bay Islands.

There are a few great spots suitable for kitesurfing in Honduras: The beach at Roatan, the main kiting spot at Camp Bay Beach and Marble Hills Farm at Punta Gorda. The most consistent winds are from February to August. January and September could be quite good too, but with less wind.

For more details on kite surfing in Honduras expand this section!

FIND ALTERNATIVES TO HONDURAS?

Find your perfect destination.

Advanced, real-time destination filter by visa required, region, health risk, travel budget, country value, tourist seasons, best weather and activity or sport.

MORE POSTS ON HONDURAS

WEWILLNOMAD

HONDURAS TRAVEL COSTS

Honduras is almost two countries when it comes to cost of living – the mainland and the Bay Islands. Stating that the Bay Islands are 'expensive' is also somewhat relative when compared to the rest of the Caribbean. One should rather compare the Bay Islands to Barbados or St Barts than to the rest of Central America. The closest comparison the Bay Islands in terms of cost in the rest of Central America is probably Belize , and the Bay Islands are still cheaper. Barely.

That said, compared to mainland Belize, the Honduras Bay Islands are very expensive. Most visitors and expats reside in the Bay Islands and visits to the mainland offer a pleasant as to the difference. Island life in Honduras, like island life anywhere, comes at a price!

VALUE RANK:

Find discount flights to honduras, travel tips for honduras.

Utila remains the biggest backpacker destination, beloved for cheap diving. Lago de Yojoa has a brewery, a great hostel and all manner of affordable activities.

GETTING AROUND

The airport is 6.5km south of central Tegucigalpa and taxi from the centre of town costs around L120, though going into the city from the airport costs around L220 to L250. In Tegucigalpa it's best to avoid city buses (prone to ‘taxing’ by gangs) and most colectivos (shared taxis). At night, unless you're walking a short distance on busy streets, take taxis.

The Bay Islands are accessible from the mainland with a short flight from San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba, or Tegucigalpa, and also by boat from La Ceiba and other points along the coast. On the Bay Islands, the roads are good, and it’s safe to drive around. There are also plenty of bus and taxi options, all safe and easy to use.

On the mainland, self driving is an option but some roads can be in in horrible condition - even main roads like the Pan=American - drive with extreme caution. Luckily the the bus system on Honduras mainland is cheap and easy to make use of. From the main hub cities, you can get anywhere. Buses are either “economy” or “first class” in Honduras, and it’s recommended, for safety reasons, that foreign visitors always use first class.

In the cities, taxies are readily available. Fares are negotiated before setting off. It’s advisable to always get the driver’s name and plate number in advance as well and to ensure that he does not pick up others en route. Uber is being rolled out and as it currently stands you can make use of an UberX in Tegucigalpa.

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF HONDURAS

• Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and epic ancient structures of the Copán ruins , which trace back to an extraordinary Maya empire.
• Cruise down the spectacular Río Cangrejal on a raft and take in some of Central America's best white water.
• Discover the forgotten Caribbean town of Trujillo , with its lovely beaches, quirky history and charming locals.
• Search for a quetzal in the cloud forests that rise above the stunningly undisturbed natural world around Lago de Yojoa .
• Snorkel wrecks and reefs then explore the remote far east of the fascinating island of Roatán .
• Go into the wild on an upriver adventure into Central America’s last untamed wilderness, the Moskitia .
• Immerse yourself in the diver’s paradise of Utila , with affordable prices, great parties and dramatic reefs all around.

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES

If you enter Honduras via the El Florido border, you'll hit a key attraction immediately: the stunning ruins of Copán . Budget at least a couple of days in the area taking in the temples and surrounding sights before making a short hop west to the atmospheric highland town of Gracias with its hot spring and Lencan villages. Then it's a long day on the road to the coastal city of La Ceiba . Set sail from here for either Roatán or Utila and indulge in some serious beach and reef time, snorkelling or diving.

Back on the mainland, head out on a rafting trip down the exquisite Río Cangrejal - from there it's south to Lago de Yojoa for an artisan brew or two, hiking and boat trips. Finish your trip off with a night in either colonial, tranquil Comayagua or the bustling capital of Tegucigalpa .

TEGUCIGALPA & SURROUNDS

Ringed by forested hills in a highland valley, sprawling Tegucigalpa enjoys a relatively fresh, mild climate and a spectacular setting. It's a bustling and dynamic place, but one that many travellers minimize their time in or skip over entirely. This is a shame, as while Tegus (as all locals call it) is no beauty – streets are choked with traffic and its resultant pollution, along with high crime statistics – it's still a fascinating place, with some good museums, restaurants and the air of a place on the up. Downtown Tegus is the neglected heart of the nation, a cluster of once elegant but now faded streets where ropa americana (used clothing) outlets have replaced department stores. For a feel of the city, stroll the pedestrianized Calle Peatonal, visit a couple of the city's decent museums and grab a snack at the market. The countryside outside of Tegucigalpa is also worth checking out if you like pine forests and tranquillity. Don’t miss La Tigra National Park - one of Honduras' most impressive national parks. Santa Lucía, a charming old colonial mining town with a spectacular vista over the capital is 14km to the east and makes for a perfect daytrip. There’s a striking 18th-century iglesia (church) and historic streets to explore.

WESTERN HONDURAS & SAN PEDRO SULA

The heartland of Honduras, this mountainous, forested region encompasses some of the nation's most outstanding sights. The top attraction is easily the excellent Maya ruins of Copán , closely followed by the colonial charm of towns such as Copán Ruinas and Gracias. Hikers will love the spectacular trails inside the Montaña de Celaque cloud forest, while there's dazzling birdlife and wonderful scenery around idyllic Lago de Yojoa , which has in the past few years established itself as a major stop on the Central American backpacker trail.

If Tegucigalpa is the cultural heart of Honduras, then San Pedro Sula is the commercial heart. It’s big and modern and sprawling, but here is where you come to get things done. The former capital of Comayagua is also within easy reach, a colonial jewel that not many people know about.

Download map waypoints for Honduras here: KML / GPX

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN HONDURAS

More location information and points of interest are available in the above map, northern honduras.

The lush, tropical northern region of Honduras has seduced visitors for centuries with its natural wonders and easy Caribbean vibe. Between the beaches are mangrove swamps and jungle reserves that scream out to be explored. Rafting the white waters of the Río Cangrejal is the big-ticket experience, but there's also fine hiking in Parque Nacional Pico Bonito and the unique flavour and rhythms of the coast's Garifuna villages. Finally, isolated Trujillo, the last stop before the Moskitia, is a charming slice of the old Caribbean, with some wonderful beaches nearby and superb mountain scenery behind it.

Despite all the region has to offer, many visitors simply travel through en-route to the Bay Islands or Belize, and see nothing more than the drab charms of Puerto Cortés, Tela or La Ceiba. More than anywhere else, northern Honduras is a place where you should avoid the towns and make a beeline for the countryside.

THE BAY ISLANDS

Spectacular diving and snorkelling draw visitors from around the world to the three Bay Islands (Islas de la Bahía) – Roatán, Utila and Guanaja – located between 25km and 50km off the north coast of Honduras. Their reefs are part of the second-largest barrier reef in the world, and teem with fish, coral, sponges, rays, sea turtles and even whale sharks. Life on the Bay Islands has more in common with Belize and Jamaica than with mainland Honduras.

Diving the Bay Islands is very affordable, but lodging and food on the islands are more expensive than on the mainland Honduras. Utila is the most affordable island (and very popular with backpackers), while Roatán has better beaches and a beautiful forested interior. Diving is also good on Guanaja, though prices there are prohibitive for most travellers.

The rainy season here runs roughly from October or November to February. March and August are the hottest months; at other times sea breezes temper the heat somewhat.

THE MOSKITIA

That vast part of Honduras you see on maps with very few roads, is one of the region's last frontiers of untamed wilderness. Huge expanses are virtually untouched jungle, and when combined with wetland and savanna habitats it's no wonder Moskitia is often dubbed Central America's Amazon. Manatees, tapirs and jaguars all still thrive here – they have learned to be circumspect around humans, and are not easy to spot. Crocodiles can be seen in the waters, while the birdlife, including macaws and fish eagles, is outstanding.

Not many people get out that far east and there’s a reason for that. The regions of Olancho and Gracias a Dios are virtually lawless with drug running and illegal logging part of daily life for most. You really don’t want to stick your nose in where it’s not wanted. But for the truly adventurous, this is a part of Honduras that is unmissable. Mountains, jungles, wide rivers, and rustic towns. A visit to this region is not for the faint-hearted – access is tricky and conditions on the ground rustic at best, making visiting as part of a tour the safest and easiest approach. Expect to up your normal budget considerably if you come here, and be sure to bring cash with you: there are no ATMs in this part of the country.

SOUTHERN HONDURAS & ISLA DEL TIGRE

Honduras touches the Pacific with a 124km coastline on the Golfo de Fonseca. This perpetually and often infernally hot coastal plain is dominated by agribusinesses: sugarcane, African Palm plantations and shrimp farms. While it's a much-travelled region (the Interamericana crosses through Honduras here), there's little of interest to travellers – except perhaps Isla del Tigre, which has some charm. But those who hang around get a treat. The city of Choluteca has its colonial charms, and the Pacific coast at the Gulf of Fonseca is stunning.

Isla el Tigre sits in the Gulf, in view of both Nicaragua and El Salvador. It’s a perfect desert island spot to lie in the sun on and decompress. It's a dramatic place covered in thick forest and with some decent beaches that attract droves of locals but very few foreigners. Its main town is Amapala, a scruffy fishing village with picturesque, crumbling clapboard architecture. Black-sand Playa Negra, in the north of the island, is arguably the island's best beach, though there are several other totally undeveloped stretches elsewhere here.

WHAT TO EAT IN HONDURAS

WHERE TO EAT

To keep costs down head to comedores (simple eateries) where a two- or three-course meal is virtually certain to be a bargain. Buy snacks from panaderías (bakeries) and markets. Cafes and restaurants in tourist towns have plenty of international dishes on their menus, including vegetarian choices.

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK

Be sure to try Honduras' national dish, the baleada (a tortilla stuffed with myriad fillings, usually including refried beans and salad) available from street vendors, and also from national chain Baleadas Express. You'll find great grilled meats in the country's interior, including lots of pinchos (kebabs). On the coast seafood is superb: tapado is a legendary Garifuna fish soup prepared with coconut and spices; in the Bay Islands is a similar dish called bando. Fresh juices

LGBTQ IN HONDURAS

I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset.

WHERE TO STAY IN HONDURAS

For a first-time visit to Honduras, choosing the right area or region to stay in depends on your interests, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. Here are some recommendations along with accommodation options in different price ranges:

Where to stay in Roatán:

Roatán is a popular Caribbean Island known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, making it a top choice for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Explore attractions like West Bay Beach, Gumbalimba Park, and the Sandy Bay Marine Park.

Budget : Posada Arco Iris offers budget-friendly accommodations in West End, Roatán. Guests can stay in simple rooms with basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi. The hotel is located close to the beach and offers easy access to dining and entertainment options in the area.

Mid-range : Mayan Princess Beach & Dive Resort provides comfortable mid-range accommodations in West Bay, Roatán. Guests can stay in well-appointed rooms and suites, enjoy access to a swimming pool, and relax at the resort's private beach area. The resort also offers dining options and a dive center.

Luxury : Las Verandas Hotel & Villas provides upscale accommodations in a secluded beachfront location in Roatán's East End. Guests can stay in luxurious rooms and villas with ocean views, enjoy access to a swimming pool, and relax at the resort's private beach area. The resort also features a restaurant, bar, and spa.

Tip : Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for lower rates and fewer crowds on Roatán.

Where to stay in Copán Ruinas:

Copán Ruinas is a charming town located near the famous Mayan archaeological site of Copán, known for its intricate stelae and hieroglyphic stairway. Explore the Copán Ruins Archaeological Park, Macaw Mountain Bird Park, and the town's colonial streets.

Budget : Hotel Camino Maya provides affordable accommodations with a convenient location near the Copán Ruins Archaeological Park. Guests can stay in simple rooms with modern amenities and enjoy access to a swimming pool and restaurant.

Mid-range : Hotel Marina Copán offers mid-range accommodations in the heart of Copán Ruinas. Guests can stay in spacious rooms and suites with views of the surrounding mountains, enjoy access to a swimming pool and gardens, and dine at the hotel's restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

Luxury : Clarion Copán Ruinas offers luxury accommodations with modern amenities and a tranquil setting overlooking the Copán Valley. Guests can stay in stylish rooms and suites, enjoy access to a swimming pool and spa, and dine at the hotel's restaurant offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Tip : Consider booking accommodations with guided tours of the Copán Ruins for added convenience and cultural insights.

CHOOSE ANOTHER DESTINATION

Recent blog posts, plan your trip, visa services, let ivisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with electronic visas, travel authorizations, visas on arrival, and even paper visas. they can also help with health declarations and embassy registrations. if you're from the us, they also provide a one-stop shop to renew your passport securely and error-free..

FLIGHTS Find a cheap flight by using  Sky scanner  or  Momondo . These are our favourite  flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found  Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. 

TRANSPORT ​

DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.  12Go   connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.

INSURANCE Travel insurance can protect you against unexpecte d illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Heymondo (International Travel Insurance)

World Nomads   (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

Need more help to book your trip? Check our complete resource page  for all the best companies to use when you travel. You will only find the companies we use ourselves.

Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you,

we may earn a commission if you end up making a purchase.

Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Getting Around
• Visitor Information
• Regions in Brief
• Spanish-Language Programs
• Special-Interest Vacations
• Calendar of Events
• Getting There
• Tips on Accommodations
• Sustainable Travel & Ecotourism
• Health & Safety
• Tips for Families
• Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers
• Tips for Senior Travelers
• Tips for Single Travelers
• Tips for Student Travelers
• Tips for Travelers with Disabilities
• Staying Connected
• Organized Tours
• Active Pursuits
• Suggested Itineraries

Planning a Trip in Honduras

Sometimes, planning your trip can be almost as fun as the trip itself. You can read up on all the things you can do. You can read magazines and explore the blogosphere. You can read the literature of the place and hear stories from others who have been there. You can look at photos and brochures. You can even read the entire guidebook from cover to cover. Now, all that's left is to experience the place in the flesh -- to see, smell, hear, and feel your destination.

There are many things to consider when planning your trip, especially to Honduras. The landscape is quite diverse, with mountains, rivers, beaches, islands, and several types of forests. If you like more off-the-beaten-track locations, Honduras sure has plenty of those -- or if you prefer the more manicured resorts, it has those, too. Do you like cities (San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa)? Do you want to see wildlife (Pico Bonito National Park, Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve)? Do you want to loll around on the beach (Roatán, Omoa, Isla del Tigre)? Or do you want to experience history (Copán, Gracias, Trujillo)? Do you want to volunteer, learn to dive, or learn a new language? The country offers a little bit of everything. It's fun for the whole family, or even a solo traveler.

Though there are some concerns, most parts of Honduras are safe and secure. Women travelers won't encounter the Latino machismo as much here as in Mexico or South America. It's tamer here for most -- a bit more tranquilo. Gay and lesbian travelers might not feel as welcome here as in North America or Europe, but in major tourist areas, they'll be fine. A little discretion can go a long way in cities and rural areas, where archaic attitudes still run deep.

Apart from how to get there and where to go, your biggest choice to make will likely be when to go. While Honduras sits entirely in the tropics and the weather is warm -- often blazing hot -- all year round, torrential rain (even hurricanes, though they are not frequent) may make you want to rethink some of your plans, especially if you want to do lots of outdoor excursions. Rain can happen anytime of the year -- sometimes just a squirt, other times a deluge -- and this can affect many of the poorly paved roads in the country. It doesn't mean you can't get around; it might just mean you'll need four-wheel drive instead of a VW Beetle.

The following section will help in finding out how to arrange your trip. You'll discover what preparations and precautions you need to take, the types of tours you will find, safety precautions, whether you need any shots, and any Customs-related information so you can get your suitcase full of rum and cigars back into your home country.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Honduras Traveler View

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

• Packing List

After Your Trip

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

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Dengue August 14, 2024 Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Destination List: Afghanistan, and Austral Islands (Tubuai and Rurutu), and Bora-Bora), Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, El Salvador, French Guiana (France), French Polynesia, including the island groups of Society Islands (Tahiti, Ghana, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Iran, Laos, Mali, Marquesas Islands (Hiva Oa and Ua Huka), Mauritius, Mexico, Moorea, Panama, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Uruguay

⇧ Top

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

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

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

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

Immunization schedules

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

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

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

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

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

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

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

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

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

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

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

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

Malaria information for Honduras.

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

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

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are sometimes found in Honduras.

Rabies is also present in bats.

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

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

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

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

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

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

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

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

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

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

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

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

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

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

Airborne & droplet

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

Tuberculosis (TB)

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

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

Eat and drink safely

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

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

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

Prevent bug bites

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

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

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

What type of insect repellent should I use?

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

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

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

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

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

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

Stay safe outdoors

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

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

Stay safe around water

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

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

Keep away from animals

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

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

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

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

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

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

Reduce your exposure to germs

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

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

Avoid sharing body fluids

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

Protect yourself:

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

Know how to get medical care while traveling

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

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

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

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

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

Select safe transportation

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

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

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

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

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

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

Think about the driver.

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

Follow basic safety tips.

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

Medical Evacuation Insurance

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

Helpful Resources

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

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

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

Maintain personal security

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

Before you leave

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

While at your destination(s)

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

Healthy Travel Packing List

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

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

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

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

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

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

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

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Roatan Honduras Travel Guide : Top 5 Reasons to Visit

Found off the north coast of Honduras in the beautiful surroundings of the Caribbean Sea, Roatan is the tropical island of dreams.

Surrounded by one of the world’s most bio-diverse coral reefs, the island has long been a favorite amongst divers and snorkelers looking to explore the unbelievably large array of marine life that live off the coast.

Away from the stunning beaches and picturesque coastline, Roatan has a beautiful, green and mountainous interior that is becoming an eco-tourism hotspot, with adventurous opportunities awaiting those looking to explore.

From high-end hotels to basic, beachside accommodation, a trip to Roatan can be for everyone. Get ready to explore the water, the jungle and the intriguing, multicultural history of this Honduran Island. To help you plan your trip, here’s our ultimate guide to visiting Roatan Honduras.

5 Best Things to do in Roatan Honduras

Table of Contents

From beautiful reefs and endless diving and snorkeling opportunities to relaxed beach days, sunset cocktails or even an intense jungle, zip-lining experience. There’s a lot to do in Roatan Honduras, and here is the best of it all.

1. Snorkeling and Diving

The snorkeling and diving opportunities are perhaps the main reason to visit Roatan. Being surrounded by the second largest barrier reef in the world means that underwater life is some of the most diverse in the world.

There are several excellent companies that can arrange trips out to the reef and that offer diving courses too. Most are located on the west side of the island, to cater to the tourists that stay here.

There are hundreds of potential dives sites, because of the sheer size of the reef!

2. Glass Bottom Boat Tours

If diving or snorkeling isn’t for you, but you’d still love to experience the majesty of the reef, then the best option is to join a glass-bottom boat tour.

These travel out to the best spots in the surrounding area and allow you to really see the best marine life without having to ever get into the water.

3. Hit Up the Beaches in Roatan

Roatan really is a tropical paradise and some of the Caribbean’s best beaches can be found around the island. The most popular ones are found in the west.

Visit West Bay Beach to enjoy the whitest sands and most tropical outlook on Roatan. If you are after a bit more seclusion though, travel to the east end, and visit Camp Bay Beach.

It’s much more isolated and remote, but the effort involved getting there will see that you might be the only person on the beach.

4.  Try a Jungle Canopy Tour

Beaches aside, Roatan has a large area of dense jungle to be explored in the island’s interior. There are several eco-adventure tours that take visitors through the canopy of the jungle , exploring the wildlife and flora of the island while experiencing the thrill of zip-lining between trees.

5. Bars and Nightlife

Roatan has a legendary nightlife scene in Honduras. Because of the number of tourists visiting, in high season, the parties can go on long into the night.

There are many great beach bars, most of them to be found in the popular West End, as well as more relaxed restaurants on the beach fronts, where it’s easy to relax the day away and watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

Some great places to check out on your visit to Roatan, Honduras are: Booty Bar & Caribbean Restaurant, The Reef Rider, and Larry and Luey’s Fly High Bar

Roatan Honduras Travel Tips

Where is Roatan, Honduras?

Roatan Honduras is a just a small, narrow island, being just under 40 miles long and only 5 miles wide at its longest stretch.

It’s small, but it’s perfectly situated in the middle of the beautiful Meso-American Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world – after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia of course.

The island is found 40 miles off the northern coastline of Honduras, and it is the largest of the seven Bay Islands, and largest settlement in the region.

How to Travel to Roatan, Honduras

Being a popular diving and holiday destination, Roatan is well connected and relatively easy to travel to. Several major airlines offer direct flights from the US, from transport hubs such as Miami and New York, however, these tend to be only seasonal in keeping with demand.

Roatan is well connected to the large Honduran city, San Pedro Sula. There are daily flights from the city to the island, and San Pedro Sula is itself well connected internationally, especially to the US and surrounding central and southern American nations.

The more adventurous traveler can even take a ferry from the Honduran mainland to Roatan. The island is just a short ride away from the coastal city of La Ceiba and a fast, modern catamaran makes the journey twice a day, in the morning and again in the afternoon, connecting Roatan to Honduras in 70 minutes.

Many cruise ships also visit the island during the Caribbean cruising season, and this can be a great way to see the highlights of Roatan on a whistle-stop tour. It can get busy though when the ships are docked.

Getting around Roatan is easy, considering the island’s small size. The airport and ferry terminal are located in Coxen’s Hole, which serves as the main transport hub of the island, and the best spot to find amenities and shops.

From here, buses run the length of the island at regular intervals. There are many taxi drivers on the island looking for fares too, just ensure you barter before accepting a lift.

Scooters can be rented daily and are an efficient way to travel around Roatan, but can be potentially dangerous for those unused to riding them or unused to the roads.

Make sure to check out   Fodor’s Caribbean Cruise Ports of Call   if arriving by cruise ship.

Best Time to Visit Roatan, Honduras

Roatan experiences very consistent temperatures throughout the year, with hot, warm weather all year around. The tropical weather though means that the island does experience distinct wet and dry seasons.

The dry season runs from July to January while the wet season runs from February to June. The area does, however, experience the odd shower even in the supposed dry season, so be prepared for this.

The best time to visit is, of course, the dry season, especially if you are visiting Roatan to snorkel or dive. The water is clearest at the end of the dry season when the runoff from the rainy season has dissipated, and the surrounding coral looks at its best.

The dry season, of course, is also when the cruise ships tend to visit and prices may be significantly higher than in the offseason.

Where to Stay in Roatan Honduras

The vast majority of the accommodation in Roatan can be found located in the west of the island. Coxen Hole may be the transport hub, however, most tourists will choose to stay elsewhere, along the more scenic stretches of coastline.

West Bay and West End are not far from Coxen Hole and are favorites for those on holiday. There’s quite a range of standards and prices available across the island, from high-end luxury hotels like Xbalanque Resort to more modest hotels for the budget traveler like Reef House Resort , you will be sure to find accommodation for all travel styles and budgets.

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

Language and Currency in Roatan

Roatan is part of Honduras, which is a majority Spanish speaking nation, however, due to its complicated colonial history, the primary language – unlike the rest of the mainland – is in fact English.

This is reflected in the place names and the names of the locals and you will find that English is the number one language to use.

US Dollars are widely accepted on the island, however, you will find that paying in US Dollars will cost a premium, so it’s best to change up your money on arrival in Coxen Hole at the many currency exchanges, for the best rates on the island. The local currency is the Honduran Lempira.

Is Roatan, Honduras Safe? 

Mainland Honduras has an infamous reputation for violent, gang-related crime and many of the cities are not that safe for tourists to visit. Don’t let that put you off traveling to Roatan however, because the island is a very separate entity to the rest of the country.

The violent crime of the mainland is rarely found on the island and with the local economy reliant on tourism, they go out of their way to ensure visitors feel safe. Petty theft may occur, as it does anywhere in the world, but Roatan is a safe destination for a vacation.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Honduras & the Bay Islands (Travel Guide)

More on Central America:

• 9 UNREAL Things to do in Caye Caulker, Belize
• Uncover Paradise on this Dreamy Panama Cruise
• The Only Costa Rica Cruise You Should Ever Take

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “Roatan Honduras Travel Guide : Top 5 Reasons to Visit”

Roatan is my favorite spot in the western Caribbean! I must have visited 12-13 times in the last 8 years. People are friendly, English and US currency is used widely, and you get a lot more than the eastern Caribbean for your money.

I appreciate you helping me learn more about Roatan. I like how you said that the main language is English. My husband and I are thinking of going somewhere foreign that has beaches but has English speakers as well. We should look at Roatan.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Travel Guide in Honduras – How, Where & Frequently Asked Questions

Have a glimpse of Honduras , read this travel guide that we provide for an awesome and adventurous trip to this wonderful country!

A tour to Honduras , the quintessential banana republic, conjures visions of endless fields of fruit ripening under a tropical sun and sweat browed laborers. Although the banana plantations are still aplenty, and it still lacks the comforts of mass tourism destinations, Honduras is fast becoming a favored eco-tourism country. Mile upon mile of white sand beaches , mist-covered cloud forests, free-flowing rivers, coral reefs, and exotic wildlife are attracting those with a hankering for nature.

Most of the visitors who vacation in Honduras come from the United States or from other parts of Central America. Palm-fringed beaches along the Caribbean shore attract vacationers who primarily value savory shellfish dining and relaxation. Others choose Honduras vacation to visit the country’s many national parks where they can observe wildlife, especially the colorful birds, the cloud forests high in the mountains, or the primordial mangrove swamps. The Bay Islands off the Caribbean coast of Honduras are popular snorkeling destinations because they’re ringed by coral reefs.

The country is popular for cheap mountain trekking, white water rafting, and scuba diving pursuits. Celebrities and famous individuals alike have experienced the potential in this hospitable island that its turn into one or more of the premier holiday spots to go to.

I decided to tour this country because Honduras is not only acknowledged for its remarkable vacation tourist spots but also for its fashionable traditions. They value art, and one specific Honduran painter has become popular around the globe for his remarkable works. Jose Antonio Velasquez is a renowned painter who has transcended art and portrayed Honduras’ culture.

Questions and Answers about Honduras

Where is honduras.

Honduras , officially the Republic of Honduras , Spanish República de Honduras , is located in Central America with the Caribbean Sea on its east and north, the Gulf of Fonseca and Nicaragua on its south, Guatemala on its west and El Salvador on its southwest.

Is it safe to travel to Honduras?

You’re free to travel and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. I decided to visit the country and I was well aware of the threats and took precautionary measures. Let me share some thoughts for your trip convenience.

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and homicide is common. Violent gang activity, such as human trafficking, rape, violent street crime, narcotics, and extortion is widespread. Emergency services and local police lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to serious crime. If you’re planning to visit Honduras , consider the following precautions:

• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Be conscious while using cell phones in public, including inside of cars while stopped in traffic.
• Never display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.

The big cities can be dangerous and we exercise a lot of caution in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa (there’s no real reason to visit them). But most of the country is very safe. I felt more comfortable walking late at night in Copan Ruinas than I did in Victoria, B.C. where there were fewer drunken young men.

How to Change Money in Honduras?

Lempira is the local currency, named after a famous Indian chief that lost his life while fighting off the invading Spanish Conquistadors. You can get the currency exchanged right at the airport booths. However, it is always advised that you should only buy enough lemps to hold you until the next day when you can visit the bank.

Hotels and shops don’t offer a good currency rate and they charge a hefty amount of commission. It makes no sense to stand on the curb with a money-changer (quite legal), flashing 3,500L (lempiras) in Honduras money. Banks are slow but safe. If you see a bank without a line, jump in it while you can and buy your Honduras money.

What is Unique about Honduras?

Honduras is unique because it has the world’s largest barrier reef and the largest wilderness area in Central America. Besides, the country is also known for its rich natural resources, including sugar cane, minerals, coffee, cotton, tropical fruit, and bananas. However, the bad thing is that more than 50% of the country lives below poverty levels.

What is the culture of Honduras?

This country has a diverse mix of people, thereby providing the country with an interesting variety of cultures. Around 90 percent of the population is “Mestizo”. Actually, they are a mixture of Latin American and European descent. The main religion of the country is Roman Catholicism. The ethnic groups include the indigenous “Lenca” living in the southwest region. Other ethnic groups include the Miskitos and the Garifuna.  Generally, the north coast, the “mosquito” coast, and the Bay Islands have a culture that is more similar to the Caribbean islands than traditional Latin America.

What is the Geography of Honduras?

Honduras is located in Central America along the Pacific Ocean’s Gulf of Fonseca and the Caribbean Sea. The country is located in Central America; it has a subtropical climate throughout its coastal and lowland areas. The country has a mountainous interior with a temperate climate. Amazing mountains are the defining feature of inland Honduras. These mountains make up over 80% of the country’s land area. Flooding, tropical storms and hurricanes are common natural disasters in the country. The main rivers of the country include the Ulua, Patuca, Coco, Sico, and Aquan. The Caratasca Lagoon in the northeast is the largest of many coastal lagoons and Lake Yojoa is the only significant lake.

How to travel to Honduras?

If you are planning to travel to Honduras, here are some of the airlines that will take you to Honduras.

• From London: Airlines like Air France, KLM, and Air America offer direct flights from London to Honduras.
• From the USA: You can get direct flights from Miami to Honduras. These include Avianca, Spirit Airlines and United.
• From Dubai: From Dubai to Honduras, you can get flights of Air Europa.
• From Singapore: unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Singapore to Honduras. You can get the connecting flights from Dubai, UK or USA.

How to travel in Honduras – Transport in Honduras?

Public buses:  Like other neighboring countries, you’ll come across chicken buses serving for the local routes. These locals are the cheapest, but also get packed and stop frequently, so can be quite slow. Fares are extremely low on most routes, at around US$1–2 an hour or less.

• Trains:  There is only a 9km rail track for the tourists or 3km intercity rail in Col. Sitramacsa.
• Taxis:  These are the safest means of transportation in the country. Fares are also not very high. You must always travel by taxi after night. Expect to pay US$2–3 for a city ride in Tegucigalpa or San Pedro, or around US$1in smaller towns.
• Private transfers:  There are some great private transfers companies operating in the country. You can contact them online and make an advance booking.

What’s the food like in Honduras?

You will find many places to eat and drink in Honduras, typically serving cuisine which is a fusion of Spanish, African and indigenous foods. Interestingly, all the dishes include more coconut than other Central American countries, in both sweet and savory cuisines. Fish is also widely available and popular on the mainland, and other specialties include tamales (corn-based dough steamed in a leaf filled with vegetables, cheese, and fruits), baleadas (a wheat flour tortilla stuffed with mashed beans and cheese).

What is the weather like in Honduras?

Honduras is a country in tropical Central America with three main climates: the small Pacific coastal section, which is hot and dry, the central highlands which have milder temperatures due to the altitude, and the hot and humid Caribbean coast. Temperatures in Honduras remain consistent throughout the year between high 70’s and high 80’s (°F).

Important things to pack for a trip to Honduras

Looking to pack stuff for the next Honduras tour, consider the following items:

• Pack lightweight cotton, linen or silk blend clothes:  Wear these clothes to deal with the humidity and the heat.
• Pack comfortable shoes:  Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.
• First-aid bag:  Bring antibiotics and antiseptics ointments, heartburn and pain relief medicines.
• Sun block:  Bring a good sunblock to prevent UN rays from penetrating into your skin.
• Mosquito repellent:  It is a must when you’re visiting Central America.

10 Amazing places to see and things to do in Honduras

1. enjoy bay islands underwater museum.

Here the tourists get a chance to enjoy a journey beneath the warm waters of Roatán. The museum tells a story of the life and history of the Garifunas, the Mayans, and Spanish settlers. Besides, visitors will come face to face with an array of animals such as a collection of tropical fish, turtles, and stingrays.

2. Visit Carambola Gardens

This 100% natural 40 acres of land features hardwoods, ferns, nut and fruit trees, flowering plants and many native plants. Various fauna such as Guatusa rabbits, anole lizards, and black iguanas can also be seen while exploring the gardens.

Suggested Tour: Customizable Best Of Roatan Island Tour in Honduras

3. Visit Cayos Cochinos

It is a group of islands in the northern part of the country. The site features the beaches on Cayo Grande, the scenic jungles, and a lighthouse on the highest point of the island.

4. Visit Parque Nacional Cusuco

It is quite tough to reach the place but it’s worth visiting. Various hikes will also take you to the famous midget cloud forest and introduce you to a variety of frogs and reptiles.

5. See Bird at Lago de Yojoa

There are more than 400 species of rare birds in this area. You can also fish and sail in the tropical rainforest. Other amazing activities other than birding include hiking in the mountains, tubing, zip lining and visiting the butterfly farm.

6. Whitewater raft down the Rio Cangrejal

Without any doubts, it is an amazing place for white water raft lovers. From August to February is the best time to raft this river and visitors should expect to raft up to 20 miles of rapids that range from Class 2 to Class 6.

7. Dive the Waters of Roatan

It is a great spot for the snorkelers and divers. Sparkling blue waters, white sandy beaches, and thick green forests make this place look like heaven on earth.

Suggested Tour: West Bay Beach Day & Snorkeling

8. Visit Pico Bonito National Park

The natural scenery is mesmerizing and it features abundant wildlife. The small luxury eco-lodge is on 400 acres with private trails, lookout towers, roaring rivers, and the most wildlife in one place.

9. Visit Copan

Located in western Honduras, Copan is an archaeological site remnant from the Maya civilization. The site features a large court, pyramids, palaces, and a central plaza. Tourists may even be able to see parts of the excavated tunnels beneath the Acropolis, revealing how complex the city really was.

Suggested Tour: Copan Ruinas Basic Tour

10. Shopping at Mercado Guamilito

It is the best place where you can buy almost everything. It remains open throughout the year, and it is made up of hundreds of stalls including delicious local food and exotic flowers for sale.

Suggested Tour: San Pedro Sula City Tour

Final thoughts on Honduras

It is a diamond in the rough, Honduras, Central America’s second-largest country, dazzles visitors with its natural beauty and diverse wildlife.  Lovers of nature can explore idyllic Caribbean beaches, bird-rich lakes and jungles, and the undeveloped tropical rainforest of La Mosquitia, the Mosquito Coast. I loved visiting this country and I’m sure you’ll love too. So visit Honduras!

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

One thought on “ Travel Guide in Honduras – How, Where & Frequently Asked Questions ”

Hello, Thanks for all the good work. Please I want to visit Juticalpa, in Olancho dept. 1. Is it safe? 2. Where can I get local tour guide? 3. Transport from Tegu airport to Juticalpa. Is it better to take a taxi?

Regards Francis

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Two Monkeys Travel - Contributor

Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

11 Best Hiking Treks To Experience in Nepal

Getting the most out of your holiday in bali, 5 best things to do in canggu, bali, indonesia [diy travel guide to canggu], africa unveiled: discovering the continent’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks, the digital nomad’s tech guide 2024, related posts, 11 off-the-beaten-path things to do in cozumel, mexico, is it safe to travel to costa rica now [traveling during the pandemic], list of the best hostels in honduras, luxury hotel review: aqua wellness resort, emerald coast nicaragua @aquanicaragua, previous post, 8 things to do in iraq [best places to visit in iraq], co-living and co-working spaces in montenegro for digital nomads, subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive tips on how you can live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle!

• First Name *
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

40 Honduras Travel Tips And Things To Know Before Visiting Honduras

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on April 3, 2024

Categories Honduras

This post will be all about Honduras travel tips and all the cool facts about Honduras and  things to know before visiting Honduras . From first timers to seasoned travelers, this post will be your go-to guide to get to know more of Honduras and what awaits you from amazing diving, Mayan Ruins, Natural Parks, Festivals to delicious food to try in Honduras.

We believe that  Honduras is a paradise just waiting to be discovered . What makes this place so special, you ask? There are beautiful places to visit in Honduras for an adventure with nature and scuba diving, white-water rafting, bird watching, Mayan ruins and eating lots of local food.

Read here Honduran breakfast ,  budget travel in Honduras  and  things to do in Honduras

Table of Contents

Honduras Travel Tips And Things To Know Before Visiting Honduras

1. is it safe to travel in honduras.

When you visit Honduras everyone is advised to avoid wearing fancy jewelry or displaying fancy things. Don’t forget to be mindful because you are visiting a different country and remember that their culture is different from yours. Try to take public transportation only during the day, and that’s what I did and didn’t have any problem. So yes,  it is safe to travel in Honduras just be cautious.

You can feel pretty safe in the touristic areas like Utila, Roatan and Copan . You need to be careful in big cities like San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa . There are no night buses and make sure you are careful near bus stations and walking around these areas.

2. CASH IS THE KING IN HONDURAS

Cash is the King in Honduras . Honduran Lempira (HNL) is the currency of Honduras and  $1= 24 lempiras . Almost everywhere in the country you can access ATM’s. And if you do need to withdraw cash, I would advise you to withdraw in Airport. Don’t worry most of the ATM’s in the country is reliable. I would recommend you a tip and this is to have a separate bank account for travels.

Click here to check the exact rate !

3. EASY VISA IN HONDURAS

The visa is easy in Honduras . There are many countries the EU nations, the US, the UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore  and many more with free Visa to enter the country for 90 days. You only have to present your passport that is valid for at least 6 months. Visa extension are available upon entering the country. Everyone is required to have a ticket for return.

Click this to check about the visa policy in Honduras .

4. BEST TIME TO VISIT IN HONDURAS

In Honduras it is mostly hot and humid all year rounds. The country is a tropical nation, typical dry season is from the months of November to April and wet season is from the months of May to October. Dry season is the best time to visit and fully enjoy the Caribbean coast. And Caribbean coast gets plenty of rain during the months of September to February.

The  best time to visit   Honduras is during the peak season from the months of  January to June , in this months the weather is dry and cool in most parts. Click here to know more about the weather in Honduras .

5. HEALTH TRAVEL INSURANCE

Things to know before visiting Honduras we recommend always to bring a  travel insurance  when traveling abroad just in case you have any problems. You can always have food Poisson, fever or any other kind of disease.

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance:  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of  Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review  and the comparison  Heymondo vs Genki

FACTS ABOUT HONDURAS

6. learning spanish or speaking english in honduras.

Another learning opportunity in Honduras is to  learn Spanish . There are a lot of Spanish classes in Honduras offering packages with different services and affordable prices. Even most of the tourist areas Honduran people almost don’t speak English but it will be really useful to learn some basics in Spanish language.

7. HONDURAS IS SO CHEAP

Facts about Honduras if you are thinking Central America and South America is cheap for travel you are right. Honduras is as cheap as  Bolivia  and  Ecuador  but for sure cheaper than  Costa Rica .

You will have to pay entrance fee for Natural Parks, around  $3-4 USD  for a dish in a local restaurant. We will tell you below accommodation, food budget and general entrance fees and tour prices in Honduras.

ACCOMMODATION BUDGET TRAVEL IN HONDURAS

For accommodation budget travel in Honduras if you want to save up some money while you are in Honduras or you just want to travel on a budget. There are many ways to achieve that lets start with accommodation. You can find hotels, B&B’s and apartments. With a dorm, expect to pay  $7-9 USD  per night.

Those who want to feel much comfier staying in hotels can cost you a minimum budget of  $10 USD . AirBnB is also available in the country the minimum budget for AirBnB in the country can cost you  $15-25 USD.  These budget will vary depending on how luxurious your stay would be.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN HONDURAS BEFORE YOUR TRIP WITH BOOKING.

8. FOOD BUDGET TRAVEL IN HONDURAS

For food budget travel in Honduras . There are plenty budget friendly authentic local restaurants for less than  $3 USD . Beer in the country is $1-2 USD . So you can have your budget for food daily budget around $10-15 USD .

Most of the dishes are coming with rice and beans. The most popular dish in Honduras is baleada. There are also liciados (milkshakes) for $1-2 USD .

9. TOUR/ENTRANCE FEES IN HONDURAS

If you want to visit a place where you can see endangered species,  Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve is  beautiful protected area. The site is perfect for hiking, with trails and great waterfalls the you’ll definitely enjoy. There is no entrance fee to the park but you have to pay for the transportation that you will use in order to reach the park.

You can also reach  Punta Izopo Wildlife Refug e from Tela and pay  $38 USD  to explore and spot local wildlife while kayaking. Roatan  is lying in the southern edge of the second largest barrier reef in the world. Roatan is a paradise filled with wonderful surprise you can do a Half-day excursion reef snorkeling for  $76 USD .

In Utila most scuba diving joints charge around $32 USD per dive which is pretty cheap compared to other countries, If you want to see the Copan Ruins the entrance fee is around $10 USD and the guided tour costs $22 USD . You can also pay for going inside the tunnels which will cost you an extra $10 USD . A typical zip lining experience costs $21-42 USD per person.

10. WIFI AND INTERNET IN HONDURAS

Internet in Honduras works great in big cities like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro. You can access free WiFi at hostels and hotels and there are lots of restaurants that are offering free WiFi. We advise that you  get a sim card in Honduras and best  Honduras eSim  if you need to catch up with some work online.

You can find the cheapest Honduras eSim with  Airalo Honduras eSim prepaid  for  $9 USD with 1 GB  data valid for 7 days ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ).  GigSky Honduras  eSim for  $11 USD  with  1 GB  data valid for 15 days and for  $40 USD  with  5 GB  data valid for 30 days.

MTX Connect eSim  Honduras for  €24  with  4 GB  data valid for 14 days.  Holafly Honduras eSim for $44 USD  if you use our code  GAMINTRAVELER  coming with  6 GB  data valid for 15 days.

You can get two different sim cards companies in Honduras if you travel as a couple since the coverage can change depending on the company that you choose. It will be challenging to find Wi-Fi while traveling in a few small cities, mountains and will be hard to get great connection.

11. ADAPTER IN HONDURAS

In our Honduras travel tips you should know they use the  American adapter . A few places make it possible to fit your European adapter in the plug. If you are coming from European countries, we recommend you to  bring an American adapter  to be able to charge everywhere.

12. LOCAL TRANSPORTATION IN HONDURAS

For local transportation in Honduras you can ride the bus for short trips in the city for as low as  $1-2 USD  per hour. And for express buses you should buy ticket in advance when possible to avoid being stranded. You can rent a car for  $30-40 USD  for the whole day. And taxi can cost you  $2-3   USD for a short trip in the city center.

There are 3 kinds of buses that go around Honduras: chicken buses, rapiditos and express buses . Chicken buses can often be boarded in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba. It makes the trip much slower but chicken buses are the cheapest option. A faster option the rapiditos is a more expensive but faster. Express buses have scheduled stops and take intercity routes.

Ferry boats traveling to the Bay Islands from La Ceiba are available regularly . A roundtrip ticket to Roatan costs around $53 USD for a first class ticket and $43 USD for a regular one.  Those going to Utila can take a ferry from La Ceiba for $25 USD one way, there are two daily ferries going from La Ceiba to Utila.

13. HONDURAS BORDER CROSSINGS

Honduras border crossings  are easy. You can take a bus if you’re from San Salvador and Nicaragua. Also, if you’re coming  from Guatemala , you can take a direct bus from La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa and different places in Honduras. The bus available is best for tourists.

14. SALSA LESSONS IN HONDURAS

Talking salsa lessons  when traveling in Honduras. It’s a well-known fact in Central America and South America love salsa. So what better way to understand the people than to get into salsa as well than learning?

In all the salsa-loving places in Honduras La Ceiba and Roatan. Prices for classes can go between  $5-10 USD  depending on the people joining and even could be free of charge.

15.  ENJOYING THE NIGHTLIFE  IN HONDURAS

Honduras nightlife  is great especially in La Ceiba and Roatan and Utila. Parties start late in the evening and everyone just loves to drink and dance the night away. Plenty of locals go out to bars and foreigners always ask for salsa lessons. Prices for beers and drinks are affordable  $2-3 USD .

16. Are Panamanian People Friendly?

Are the  Panamanian people very friendly ? Yeah they are! Just a few of them will be able to communicate in English don’t forget their language is Spanish. It will be nice when interacting in Panama with locals trying to practice a few Spanish words, they will love to hear them.

17. PLASTIC BAGS EVERYWHERE IN HONDURAS

Plastic bags are everywhere in Honduras . You will buy water in bags, also fruits and juices are sold in plastic bags in local markets. Hopefully soon in Honduras will be starting to replace the plastic.

18. SNORKELING AND SCUBA DIVING IN THE ISLANDS

Honduras’ Bay Islands is one of the best diving spots in the world. You can go snorkeling at Roatan and the Jeanette Kawas National Park. Scuba diving spots also abound all over Roatan, Utila and Guanaja. The coral reefs here are spectacular!

19. GET THE OPEN WATER IN UTILA

You can get the Open Water course for scuba diving in Utila . The Open Water in Utila is one of the cheapest place. You can pay around $250-300 USD for 3-4 days and it will include a few dives. I did myself and it was amazing plus while doing the Open Water the accommodation was included. An amazing experience on a budget!

20. RIDING BUSES WHERE THE RADIO PLAYS THE HOLY MASS

I was riding local buses and I found for first time playing the pray on the radio. People were listening to the pray since it was so loud. I love living these experiences that´s why I love riding public transportation. You will find apart from Honduras in a few countries in Central America since they are so religious.

More Facts About Honduras Food

21. try the famous baleada.

Try Baleada  in Honduras which is a traditional Honduran dish with ingredients famously eaten all over South and Central America. Perfect for breakfast or lunch, this street food is basically made of mashed fried red beans on the inside and a flour tortilla on the outside. Some add cheese, butter, scrambled eggs, plantain and avocado.

22. ENJOY SOME ENCHILADA

Enchiladas are maybe familiar with the enchiladas of Mexico but Honduran enchiladas are actually quite different. Similar to tostadas, the Honduran version are served with fried flat corn tortillas. On top of the tortillas are ground beef, cabbage, tomato, ketchup or tomato sauce, and other spices.

23. PUPUSA S

Pupusas are one of the most famous dishes in Honduras and El Salvador is pupusa, or thick corn tortilla stuffed with all sorts of delicious fillings. You can eat an assortment of cheese, beans and beef pupusas that are then served with curtido de repollo (cabbage).

24. PALMITO SALAD

Palmito Salad is one of the popular dishes in Honduras. Palmito salad is made of hearts of palm (which taste similar to artichokes) and can be mixed with typical ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, olives, capers and garlic. Order Palmito salad in a local Honduras restaurant is a definite must-try!

25. TRY LICUADOS

A licuado  is a smoothie made from fresh fruits or fruit juices. The fruits are blended with milk, yogurt, ice and a sweetener and will save you from hot and humid days in Honduras. This non-alcoholic drink is popular among tourists and locals alike. It can be drank at the beach or in the busy street markets.

More Honduras Travel Tips And Things To Know Before Visiting Honduras

Festival in honduras, 26. semana santa.

Semana Santa (Holy Week) like other predominantly Roman Catholic nations is a big deal in Honduras. One of the best time to visit Honduras is during this week because of all the marvelous parades all over the country. In these parades, events in the Bible from the Easter story are reenacted by locals.

27. PUNTA GORDA

Punta Gorda is celebrated on the 12th of April. Punta Gorda celebrates the 4,000  Garufina  people who settled in Roatan many years ago. Punta Gorda is one of Honduras biggest festivities with tourists and locals partying in the Caribbean coast and beyond.

28. LA FERIA DE SAN ISIDRO

Feria de San Isidro in Honduras is considered the carnival of La Ceiba and is comparable to New Orleans’  Mardi Gras Festival . If you’re looking for places to visit in Honduras, you might want to stop by La Ceiba during the week before the third Saturday of May to take part in this festival.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN HONDURAS WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

Places To Visit in Honduras

29. visit the copan ruins.

You have to visit Copan Ruins just by the border between Honduras and Guatemala lies the remains of a Classic period Mayan kingdom. Copan ruins is the most touristic place in Honduras and it has temples and hieroglyphs that date back to around 400 to 800 A.D.

The city was abandoned due to lack of resources but this site now flourishes as a  UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980 . The  entrance fee is $15 USD  and its totally worth it!

30. TEGUCIGALPA

Tegucigalpa is located in the Southern-Central highlands, Tegucigalpa is the capital of Honduras and largest city. Tegucigalpa has a huge population. You can visit  Museo para la Identidad Nacional  and get to know Honduras better with their very accommodating and knowledgeable tour guides.

You can also visit  Catedral de San Miguel Arcángel , a church that was constructed in the 1700’s. There are truly plenty of cultural gems in Tegucigalpa! And 20 kilometers outside Tegucigalpa is  Parque Nacional La Tigra  that has a beautiful cloud forest and hiking trails.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN TEGUCIGALPA WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

31. SAN PEDRO SULA

San Pedro Sula is a big city great place if you are coming from Guatemala or for connecting cities in Honduras (buses going everywhere in Honduras). If you’re planning to spend at least a day in San Pedro Sula you can visit El Merendon’s hills and take a photo with the  iconic Coca Cola sign .

You can go zip lining at  Mountain Adventures and hiking around the area. And San Pedro Sula city center  Mercado de Artesanias Guamilito  is a great place to buy souvenirs and local crafts. 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN SAN PEDRO SULA WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

32. LA CEIBA

La Ceiba is known as the Entertainment Capital of Honduras. La Ceiba has a fun, inviting vibe because of its friendly locals and the city’s nightlife district. La Ceiba is the perfect place to party in Honduras and will serve as your jumping point to the Bay Islands.

There are Parks like Cuero y Salado Wildlife Refuge  in La Ceiba perfect for nature lovers. From La Ceiba is very quiet and you can the ferry to Utila, There are a few restaurants and place to stay in La Ceiba if you are planning to stay a couple of days.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN LA CEIBA WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

Utila is the smallest of the major Bay Islands at only 13 km long and 5 km wide. Utila is one of the cheapest place for diving in the world. Aside from diving, there are a number of other water activities to try here like  snorkeling, canoeing, paddle boarding, kayaking and fishing . For relaxation, there are spas, yoga and pilates centers all around the island. Utila’s beaches and cays are also a main attraction and each spot is definitely one of a kind. 

An Open water course costs around $250 USD and they include accommodation, check and compare prices and choose your best option. You can do in different languages for sure English and Spanish. Food is little bit more expensive than mainland and internet was working fine!

The nightlife was great in Utila and day trips diving and snorkeling were incredible. In Honduras the coral reef coming from México and Belize is the  second largest coral reef in the world ! There are two daily ferries going to Utila from La Ceiba around $25 USD one way leaving La Ceiba 9 am and 4 pm.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN UTILA WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

Roatan is bigger than Utila and prices are higher. Roatan is lying on the southern edge of the second largest barrier reef in the world. Roatan is an excellent diving and snorkeling. You can also enjoy Roatan’s waters by going sailing, Flyboarding and even swimming with dolphins.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN ROATAN WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

35. CAYOS COCHINOS

Cayos Cochinos is also known as Hog Islands. Cayos Cochinos is a breathtaking paradise made up of 2 small islands and 13 small coral cays. With Cayo Cochinos’ crystal clear waters, pristine beaches and incredible views is hard not to fall in love with one of the best destinations in Central America.

You can get to Cayo Cochinos from Roatan, Utila and La Ceiba. Most of the day trips are charging around $100 USD per person for the visit to enjoy this paradise.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN CAYOS COCHINOS WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

36. COMAYAGUA

Comayagua is one of the historical sites in Honduras, Comayagua is a great place to see some Spanish Colonial architecture, neo-classic buildings, colonial plazas and old churches. The  Immaculate Conception Cathedral  was completed in 1711 and is one of the oldest in Central America. Comayagua is a great place to enjoy the Holy Week in Honduras.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN COMAYAGUA WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

37. BIRDWATCHING AT LAGO DE YOJOA

Lago de Yojoa is a beautiful lake is a wonderful fishing and bird watching destination and is known for its biodiversity. There are coffee plantations to visit in the area as well. You will be able to spot mover 400 species of birds and even try the zip line in Lago de Yojoa.

38. RÍO PLÁTANO BIOSPHERE RESERVE

Río Plátano is an amazing place with plenty of animal and plant life. One of the things to know before visiting Honduras that Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the La Mosquitia area of the Caribbean Honduras. Río Plátano is preserved with the help of its indigenous people and local inhabitants. Migratory birds visit this beautiful forest every February and March.

39. PICO BONITO NATIONAL PARK

Pico Bonito National Park is perfect for hiking with trails that are also enjoyable for bird watchers and nature lovers in general. There are great waterfalls in the park and you can even swim in natural pools. How refreshing! Get ready in Pico Bonito National Park to have fun with nature.

40. JEANETTE KAWAS NATIONAL PARK

Jeanette Kawas National Park is in the northern Caribbean coast. Jeanette Kawas National Park is also known as Parque Nacional Punta Sal one of the best places to enjoy snorkeling, hiking and other activities with nature. Even just walking along its beaches, exploring its mangrove, and tropical forests, and encountering howler monkeys.

Hope you liked our Honduras travel tips. Let us know if we missed things to know before visiting Honduras and facts about Honduras in the comments below.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. By using our links, you will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys. 

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

How To Get From Tegucigalpa Airport To City Center - All Possible Ways - Gamintraveler

Monday 17th of May 2021

[…] here Honduras travel tips, budget travel in Honduras and things to do in […]

Best things to do in Honduras

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• best-things-to-do-in-honduras

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Andy Turner

updated 31.03.2023

Rainforests, cloud forests, beaches, jungles, lakes, islands, Mayan ruins, colonial cities, and buzzing metropolises come together in Central America’s least discovered country. Here is our pick of the best things to do in Honduras .

1. See the extraordinary Copan Ruins

2. lago de yojoa for birdwatching and more, 3. see the 500-year-old churches of gracias, 4. relax by the crystal clear waters of roatan island, bay islands, 5. visiting gumbalimba park - one of the best things to do in honduras with kids, 6. explore la mosquita, 7. olancho for the most stunning and challenging terrain, 8. punta sal national park for stunning beaches and more, 9. take a tour of a coffee plantation, 10. bird watching for rare birds, 11. rio platano biosphere reserve, 12. exploring la tigra national park - one of the best things to do in honduras for hiking, 13. comayagua for colonial architechture, 14. rio cangrejal for whitewater rafting and more, 15. try honduran cuisine.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

Near the Guatemalan border is the Maya ceremonial city of Copán. The area around the ruins has been inhabited since at least 1400 BC. The town of Copán Ruínas is about 1km (0.6 miles) from the archaeological site. Tourism runs the town and within a few blocks of the cobblestone plaza are dozens of small hotels, ex-pat restaurants, and handicraft shops.

On entering the grounds of the archaeological site, a path leads to the claustrophobic Rosalia and Jaguar tunnels. The tunnels give an idea of how the Maya layered construction, building one temple over another. The trail continues to the Acropolis and Temple of Inscriptions. On the Great Plaza, diagonal from the Temple of Inscriptions, the city’s most important symbol is the Hieroglyphic Stairway.

If you are planning a backpacking trip to Honduras, check out our list of tips for backpacking in Central America .

Exploring the Mayan ruins in Copan is one of the most exciting things to do in Honduras © Inspired By Maps/Shutterstock

Surrounded by misty pine-covered mountains and coffee fincas, the 89 sq km (55 sq mile) Lago de Yojoa is a premier eco-destination that somehow isn’t swarming with tourists. It’s the country’s largest natural lake and a hotspot for birders who come from around the world hoping to glimpse some of the 400 or so species that have been identified here.

Along the lakeshore are several fine hotels, which mostly attract Honduran families, and even a small craft brewery. The American-owned D&D also runs guided boat excursions on the lake.

Lake Yojoa, Honduras © Jpiks/Shutterstock

For a short time, the sleepy colonial village of Gracias a Dios – named after conquistador Juan de Chavez’s reaction after finding flat land after weeks in the mountains – was the capital of all of Central America. Today, with nearby Lenca villages and national parks luring visitors, the town has been capitalizing on its stock of 500-year-old churches and cobblestone plazas.

Much of the original Spanish grid, topped by a small fortification on a hillside called El Fuerte de San Cristóbal, has been reconstructed, with boutique hotels and cafés filling the whitewashed houses. Once the home of a wealthy colonial family, Museo Casa Galeano is a restored colonial house stocked with artefacts, old photographs, and a folk art collection. It’s adjoined by a botanical garden, one of the oldest in the region.

Where to stay in Gracias:

• For spectacular views: Hotel and Restaurant Guancascos
• For natural surroundings: Hotel de Campo Villa de Ada

Church Iglesia Las Mercedes, Gracias, Honduras © Milosz Maslanka/Shutterstock

Most tourism to the islands rotates around Roatán, the largest of the Bay Islands at 64km long (40 miles). It’s here that the cruise industry has sunk about $100 million into modern ports. Mahogany Bay and the Port of Roatán’s Town Center have attracted waves of oversized cruise ships.

Most development has taken place on the Western half of the island. The crystal clear waters of West Bay Beach, the best in Honduras, has seen a surge in development over the past decade. Resorts and condo projects have bought up every last hectare. In the hills above West Bay is Gumbalimba Park an island adventure park with watersports, a monkey island, and a canopy tour that cruise travellers often visit.

Where to stay on Roatan Island:

• For the white sandy beach: Infinity Bay, Spa & Beach Resort
• For high quality: Naboo Resort & Dive Center - Adults Only

Find more accommodation options to stay on Roatan Island

Roatan Island, Honduras © John A. Anderson/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

One of the best things to do in Honduras while travelling with kids is to visit Gumbalimba Park. The park is located in the West Bay of Roatan Island and can be reached by car or taxi from other parts of the island. In the park you can explore the rich flora represented by the lush gardens, featuring a variety of tropical plants. There are also several animals, including macaws, parrots, monkeys, iguanas and sloths.

The Gumbalimba park also houses a museum with artefacts from Honduras' pre-Columbian heritage, as well as examples of traditional Honduran houses and other cultural artefacts. In addition to all the above, one of the main attractions of the park is its popular swimming area, which includes a natural swimming pool with a waterfall and a beach. Here you can enjoy snorkelling and diving in the nearby coral reefs.

Visiting Gumbalimba Park - one of the best things to do in Honduras with kids © Shutterstock

The largest tract of virgin tropical rainforest in Central America remains almost entirely unexplored. Only recently have archaeologists and explorers uncovered stone cities, revealing a lost civilization that remains a mystery. Covering the entire northeastern part of the country, La Mosquitia is sparsely populated, except for a few small towns and isolated Pech, Tawahka, Garífuna, and Miskitos villages.

It should be noted that apart from its exotic beauty Central America is also one of the cheapest destinations to travel to. Read our guide to budget trips around the world and find more places that combine excellent leisure activities with accessibility.

La Mosquita, Honduras © Gustavo Frazao/Shutterstock

Tackle Honduras’s most stunning and challenging terrain. Despite Olancho’s size – it makes up a fifth of Honduras’s total territory – tourist attractions are few, and its high, forested mountain ranges interspersed with broad valleys make getting from place to place difficult and slow.

However, these same ranges harbour some of the country’s last untouched expanses of tropical forest and cloud forest. The national parks of El Boquerón and Sierra de Agalta are awe-inspiring. Along the valleys, now given over to pastureland for cattle, are scattered villages and towns. Both Juticalpa, the department capital, and Catacamas, at the eastern end of the paved road, are good bases for exploring the region.

Olancho, Honduras © JSerrano/Shutterstock

Originally called Punta Sal, the 782km (484 miles) Parque Nacional Jeannette Kawas was renamed after the environmental activist Jeannette Kawas Fernández, who was killed after establishing the park. Two distinct ecosystems are found here: the lagoon and the peninsula. Protecting the bay from strong winds called nortes, the peninsula is home to a combination of unspoiled coral reefs, dense jungle and stunning beaches.

Los Micos Lagoon is separated by a small sandbar near Miami, and canals here weave through the rich landscape where hundreds of species of migratory birds can be seen. Outside of driving to Miami and hiring a boat to enter the lagoon, private transportation here is difficult. We recommend to use Tela-based tour operators like Garífuna Tours , which have regular trips to the lagoon and peninsula.

Punta Sal National Park in Honduras © Shutterstock

Honduras, like all Central American countries, is a significant coffee producer, with many coffee plantations located throughout the country. Coffee production is one of the most important parts of the Honduran economy, and the country is known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee.

Some coffee plantations are open for guided tours where you can get an insight into coffee production. During the tour, you can see coffee plants, learn about the harvesting and processing of coffee beans, and taste different types of coffee. Some coffee plantations also offer accommodation for visitors wishing to experience life on a coffee farm.

Honduras is known for high-quality Arabica coffee © Shutterstock

Thanks to its rainforests, swamps and cloud forests, Honduras is a popular place for bird watching. The country is home to more than 700 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.

One of the best things to do in Honduras for bird watching is to choose one of the popular destinations such as Pico Bonito National Park, La Tigra National Park, Selache National Park, or Copán Archaeological Reserve. All of these sites offer guided birdwatching tours and hikes led by local guides who will help visitors see rare and endemic species.

Scarlet macaw © Shutterstock

Named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1980, the 525,000 hectares (1.3 million acres) Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse set of rare ecosystems including wetlands, pine savannas, and tropical forest. The only inhabitants are a few Pech and Miskito communities who live in much the same way as they have for hundreds of years.

The array of flora and fauna is dazzling, with bucket list species after bucket list species: jaguars, harpy eagles, Baird’s tapirs, and many others. Despite its natural wonders, most of the park is almost inaccessible. For much of the rainy season, travel here is impossible, while during the dry seasons, running from February to May and August to November, it requires a series of air, boat, and overland connections to get into the interior.

Parque Nacional La Tigra is a 238 sq km (92 sq miles) tract of cloud forest that has been a national park since 1982. While much of the forest was cut down by loggers and the El Rosario Mining Company, it is slowly being recovered. Hiking trails run through the park, mostly from the western entrance at Jutiapa, where there is a small campground, cabins, and a visitor centre.

The 6km (3.7 miles) Sendero Principal is the primary route across La Tigra, though a handful of other trails in various states of maintenance branch off it. Even though the park is so close to Tegucigalpa, it has a surprisingly rich collection of flora and fauna. Mammals like pumas and armadillos are rare, though more than 350 species of birds have been identified, including the resplendent quetzal and wine-throated hummingbird.

Old Mine Building El Rosario San Juancito La Tigra National Park © Shutterstock

The capital of Honduras for more than three centuries before being moved to Tegucigalpa, Comayagua, 71km (45 miles) south of Lago de Yojoa, has the best-preserved colonial architecture in the country. Founded in 1537 by the Spanish explorer Alonso de Cáceres, much of the original city grid remains, along with palaces, churches, and squares.

At the north end of Parque Central, the Catedral de Santa María dates to the late 17th century and is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. Four of the original 16 hand-carved wooden altars have been immaculately maintained. Outside in the tower, the clock dates to around 1100 and was built for the Alhambra in Granada. Iglesia La Merced, four blocks to the south, is the oldest church in Comayagua.

Where to stay in Comayagua:

• For central location: Hotel Antigua Comayagua
• For a charming atmosphere: Apartamentos Casco Historico Comayagua

Honduras, Comayagua city © Shutterstock

Whitewater rafting (also known as river running) and kayaking are one of the best things to do in Honduras to observe the scenery and wildlife of the country. Dozens of professional outfitters around the region will provide all of the necessities. You can be assured that you are in good hands: guides have been through training in the classroom and on the rivers.

In Honduras, the Cangrejal River, on the border of Pico Bonito National Park, has Class III-IV rapids in turquoise water, dodging giant boulders as toucans fly overhead. The region’s longest rafting experience is in La Mosquitia, however, where 13-day expeditions run through the remote Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve, giving spectacular views of rare wildlife.

Cangrejal river in Honduras © Shutterstock

Honduran cuisine is influenced by Spanish, African and indigenous cuisines. A distinctive feature of the cuisine is the variety of ingredients such as seafood, beans, plantain, maize and tropical fruits. The most popular Honduran dishes are:

• Baleadas: a popular street food dish consisting of a flour tortilla filled with fried beans, cheese and sometimes meat or avocado.
• Plátanos Maduros: ripe plantain that is fried and served as a side dish or appetizer.
• Carne Asada: grilled or roasted beef served with rice, beans and salad.

Honduran baleadas© Shutterstock

For more inspirational travel tips check our Rough Guide books .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Honduras without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image © John A. Anderson/Shutterstock

• Nature & Wildlife
• Authentic Experiences
• History Culture Heritage
• Central America & the Caribbean
• Inspiration
• See & Do
• Where to stay

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Honduras

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Honduras

• Getting around Honduras: Transportation Tips
• Culture and Etiquette in Honduras
• Eating and drinking in Honduras
• How to get to Honduras
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Honduras
• Travel Tips Honduras for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Honduras

Find even more inspiration for 75 here

Ready to travel and discover honduras, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice

Palmerola International Airport to be a Game Changer

Palmerola Intenational Airport with its 2.4 km long runway will also allow become an important cargo facility. Currently, Toncontin Airport has many limitations, due to its short runway, and difficult approach. This is expected to make of this central area of Honduras an important logistical hub. This will result in increased infrastructure and development of the area.

If you enjoyed it please share it:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Bonacca Town

Bonacca town is the largest community on the island of Guanaja. It is where the seat of the municipal government is, and was, until early on the morning of October 2, one of the most unique towns in the Caribbean and in Central America. Some people consider that Bonacca Town is the Venice of the […]

Update to Honduras Immigration Requirements

As of June 10, Congress approved a modification to the law that required that all persons, Hondurans, and foreigners entering the country had to provide a negative COVID 19 test taken within 72 hours of their arrival into Honduras. The new law states that if you are fully vaccinated you can now enter the country without the negative test.

Where does the name of Honduras come from?

The answer is easy if you ask any Honduran citizen! Christopher Columbus, that great seafaring adventurer who discovered America randomly arrived at the Honduras coast in August 1502. His first stop was at the Island of Guanaja. His second was in what today is the Bay of Trujillo. After claiming the land for the Spanish […]

The Cangrejal River, one of the 30 Wonders of Honduras!

The magnificent Cangrejal River was declared one of the 30 Wonders of Honduras back in 2011. It was the eighth most voted wonder at the time. The River meanders between Pico Bonito and Nombre de Dios National Parks. It offers the ideal setting for adventure and nature tourism activities. Many lodges and operators offer services in the area.

2021 Golf Update in Honduras

There have been two different events that had a big impact in the Golf alternatives in Honduras last year. The first was the Covid-19 pandemic, that pushed the country into a lockdown. The second were the back-to-back tropical storms ETA & IOTA. These storms caused heavy flooding in the Sula Valley.

Honduras Bicentennial Celebration

Honduras celebrates 200 years as an independent country this year! I still remember when I had a chance to participate in the bicentennial celebration in 1976 in the USA. I am not a US citizen, but I was there for the US bicentennial as part of the tall ship parade up the Hudson River on July 4, 1976.

Honduras Travel Blog & Destination Guide

Honduras Travel Blog and Destination Guide

This Honduras Travel Blog has a mission of providing you with all of the necessary resources for an outstanding holiday in Honduras. Regardless of whether you are a backpacker on a budget or a seasoned, upscale traveler staying at the most elegant boutique properties available in Honduras. Our goal is to give you the all information you need to make the most out of this vacation. Although Honduras is a Spanish speaking country, our blog will be solely in English. English has become the universal travel language on Planet Earth. I apologize to all Hondurans and other Spanish speaking people who would prefer to have it in Spanish.

Our Honduras Travel Blog has several sections: Travel Tips ,  here you will find useful tips for your travels within the country. Destinations , these I have put together into areas with the same general characteristics. For example, under Bay Islands we include all three Bay Islands : Roatan , Utila and Guanaja . Finally, we have our Blog , where we try to share our travels and experiences throughout Honduras. Hopefully you will find a bit of humor for you to enjoy.

Please feel free to drop us an e-mail with suggested corrections, additions and comments. The travel industry is an ever changing entity and there are always new things appearing and others disappearing. Above all, happy and safe travels through Honduras . Our best wishes so that this Honduras Travel Blog is truly useful to all! We are constantly building on our Honduras Destination Guide and include new destinations regularly.

John Dupuis / Comayagua , getting there , News , Tegucigalpa Palmerola international airport , Toncontin International Airport / 3 Comments

John Dupuis / Bay Islands , Blog , Guanaja Bonacca fire , great fire of October 2 / 0 Comments

John Dupuis / Covid-19 , Featured , Travel Tips Covid 19 vaccination certificate / 10 Comments

John Dupuis / About , Honduras history , Trujillo Best Anchorage in Honduras , Cape of Fondura , William Davidson / 0 Comments

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Adventure Travel

This Is the Perfect Adventure Itinerary for Roatán — With Scuba Diving, Waterfall Rappelling, and Even Some Relaxing Beach Time

Off Honduras’ northern coast, this Caribbean island is a burgeoning ecotourism haven.

Bill Gozansky / Alamy Stock

After checking my scuba gear, I backrolled into the turquoise water and found myself in a wonderland of candy-colored corals, giant barrel sponges, lacy sea fans, and neon fish. I drifted along in silent awe as schools of indigo-colored creole wrasses darted through shafts of sunlight and a colony of garden eels poked up through the seabed like miniature periscopes.

For years, fellow divers had been telling me that the coral reefs of Honduras rivaled those of neighboring Belize, renowned as a divers’ paradise. After six days, I was convinced. I also came to understand why this part of the country has emerged as an ecotourism destination, thanks to fewer crowds, lower prices, and virgin keys. 

My adventure began at the airport on Roatán, a string-bean-shaped island off the coast of northern Honduras. The customs line was packed with middle-aged Americans sharing tips about the island’s best dive sites and where to spot six-foot manta rays, hawksbill turtles, and seahorses. Roatán lies at the southern end of the six-mile-long Mesoamerican Reef (second only to the Great Barrier Reef in size) and promotes scuba and snorkeling to encourage tourism. I couldn’t wait to get into the water. 

From left: Jashley247/Shutterstock; Danita Delimont Creative/Alamy

A half-hour taxi ride took me to the Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa , the island’s first big-brand hotel, which opened last year on a strip of golden sand at the southern tip. It’s an idyllic place to watch the sunset, perhaps from a driftwood swing chair at the waterside bar. I stayed in a Wellness suite with an sea-facing terrace above the Kao Kamasa Spa, which has four therapeutic plunge pools, a glass-bottom infinity pool, and treatment rooms within earshot of the surf.

The hotel is a quick hop to the West End, a village filled with restaurants and bars, and even closer to some dive sites. After I’d settled in, I was pointed to West Bay Divers , which operates trips to more than 80 sites inside Roatan Marine Park, a nature reserve protected by a nonprofit of the same name. 

Courtesy of Kimpton Grand Roatan

Divemaster Karim Godoy gave me a quick refresher (it had been a few years since my last dive) before whisking me to Black Rock, a popular spot just offshore from the Kimpton. The 40-foot descent felt like traveling through a portal into an alternate universe. After reaching the reef, Godoy and I swam side-by-side for 45 minutes as he pointed out a chartreuse sea anemone, crawling sea cucumbers, spiky lionfish hiding in the folds of staghorn coral, and other creatures I had never seen. 

At about 40 miles long and five miles across, Roatán is small, but there is no shortage of aquatic adventures. Free divers (those who dive without a breathing apparatus) can get certified by Esteban Darhanpé at his Roatan Freediving School & Training Center . Nature lovers paddle through the protected mangroves around Jonesville, a town founded by Welsh settlers more than a century ago. Snorkelers swim out from points like West Bay Beach, Starfish Alley, and Newman’s Wall. 

My favorite dive was around Big French Key, a private island nearby, where I explored Mr. Bud, a cargo ship that was sunk in 1995 and has become a coral garden that attracts grouper, silversides, nudibranch, and other aquatic life.

After three days splashing around Roatán, I took a 70-minute ferry to La Ceiba, a party town on the mainland. It’s a jumping-off point for the so-called Bay Islands (which include Roatán), but the surrounding region has become an eco-destination in its own right, known for its biodiverse subtropical forest and lush waterfalls. 

ZUMA Press, Inc. / Alamy

I checked in to the Lodge & Spa at Pico Bonito , a rustic-chic resort set in the Pico Bonito cloud forest, which teems with more than 500 bird species, including toucans and motmots, and exotic animals, such as kinkajous, peccaries, and coatis. My large cabin had rosewood floors and pine ceilings, plus a deck screened by cacao trees. It felt refreshingly tech-free, without a USB port or flat-screen TV in sight.

For entertainment, the lodge offers outdoor diversions, including whitewater rafting down the Cangrejal River, bird-watching in the Aguan Valley, and hiking to crystalline swimming holes. There is also a reptile and butterfly garden and a soothing sweat lodge.

After breakfast, I jumped into a 4 x 4 pickup and traveled along dirt roads to Las Cascadas Lodge to go rappelling down a waterfall with a spunky guide, Olbin Lobo. Hiking through the dense forest, Lobo pointed out a camera trap that photographs wild jaguars, which are once again flourishing in Honduras. Midway through our 40-minute trek, rain started lashing the canopy of tamboril, mahogany, and ceiba trees. By the time we reached the 85-foot-high falls, the water seemed to have doubled in force. My heart pounded as I leaned into the harness and prepared to descend, a torrent of water pummeling my face, chest, and legs. 

“Hurry, hurry,” Lobo howled from the whitewater below as adrenaline coursed through my veins. Gripping the rope tightly, I found my footing step by precarious step. “Slow and steady,” I told myself. “Don’t panic.” Every tread down felt like a gamble. I strained to hear Lobo through the storm as he coached me to jump, zigzag, and sidestep down the slick rockface. After 15 minutes, which seemed like an eternity, I finally felt solid ground beneath my soaking-wet feet. “Welcome to the jungle,” Lobo said with a high-five. 

A version of this story first appeared in the April 2024 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Out of the Blue. "

Related Articles

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations
• Central & South America

Honduras Travel Guide – Best Places To Visit In Honduras + Tips

Published: September 8, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Jenny Chang

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the vibrant and enchanting land of Honduras, a hidden gem in Central America. Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, this beautiful country is filled with rich history, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and warm-hearted people. With its diverse landscapes, from pristine white sandy beaches to lush rainforests and majestic mountains, Honduras offers a plethora of experiences for every type of traveler.

With a history dating back to the Mayan civilization, Honduras is steeped in ancient ruins and archaeological treasures. The famous Copán Ruinas is a must-visit destination, where you can explore intricate Mayan sculptures and pyramids, providing a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past. But it’s not just the historical sites that make Honduras a captivating travel destination. The pristine island of Roatán is a tropical paradise, with crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. For those seeking adventure, the inland regions offer exhilarating activities such as zip-lining through the lush canopy, exploring underground caves, and whitewater rafting.

Honduras is also a land of cultural diversity, with indigenous communities preserving their traditions and crafts. In the capital city of Tegucigalpa, you can immerse yourself in the lively markets, sampling local delicacies and purchasing unique handmade crafts. The coastal town of La Ceiba celebrates its annual carnival, which is a riot of color and music, showcasing the vibrant culture of the Garífuna people.

Traveling through Honduras also allows you to savor its mouthwatering cuisine. Sample baleadas, a traditional Honduran dish made with tortillas filled with beans, cheese, and various toppings, or indulge in seafood fresh off the Caribbean coast, prepared in the local style. Don’t forget to try the national drink, horchata, a refreshing rice-based beverage infused with cinnamon and vanilla.

While Honduras offers a multitude of travel experiences, it’s important to be aware of certain safety considerations. Like any destination, it’s advisable to take precautions and stay informed about the current situation. Taking a guided tour or traveling in groups can add an extra layer of security.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, embarking on thrilling adventures, exploring ancient ruins, or immersing yourself in vibrant culture, Honduras has something for everyone. So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and discover the wonders of this Central American treasure.

Overview of Honduras

Situated in the heart of Central America, Honduras is a country known for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. It shares borders with Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua, and is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south.

With a population of over nine million people, Honduras is a melting pot of different ethnicities and cultures. The majority of the population is of Mestizo descent, a mix of Indigenous and European heritage, but there are also indigenous communities, such as the Lenca, Maya Chortí, and Garífuna, each with their own unique customs and traditions.

The country’s terrain is a stunning blend of mountains, valleys, rainforests, and coastal plains. The western region is dominated by the rugged Sierra Madre mountain range, where you can find the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the north, you’ll discover coastal areas with picturesque islands like Roatán and Utila, which offer some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the Caribbean.

Honduras boasts an incredible biodiversity, with an array of wildlife species found in its national parks and protected areas. The Moskitia region in the northeast is a vast expanse of tropical rainforest, home to rare and endangered species such as jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws. It is also where you can embark on unforgettable wildlife adventures, including spotting manatees in the lagoons and exploring ancient archaeological sites hidden within the dense vegetation.

The country’s culture is deeply rooted in its pre-Columbian history and Spanish colonization. The ancient ruins of Copán offer a glimpse into the once-mighty Mayan civilization, with intricately carved stelae and imposing pyramids. The Garífuna people, concentrated in the coastal towns, have preserved their African heritage through dance, music, and cuisine, making it a vibrant cultural experience.

Honduras is also known for its delicious cuisine, which blends indigenous flavors with Spanish and Caribbean influences. Typical dishes include plátanos fritos (fried plantains), tamales, and the famous baleadas – a tortilla filled with beans, cheese, and your choice of meat or vegetables. And of course, no meal is complete without a cup of Honduran coffee, known worldwide for its exceptional quality.

With its natural wonders, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Honduras offers a truly immersive experience for travelers seeking adventure, cultural discovery, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, diving into crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoying the warmth of the sun on a palm-fringed beach, Honduras is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Roatán

Located in the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea, Roatán is the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras and a paradise for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. This tropical island is renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a sought-after destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Roatán is blessed with a diverse marine ecosystem, teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, stretches along the coast of Roatán, providing endless opportunities for underwater exploration. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are numerous dive sites waiting to be explored, offering stunning underwater landscapes and encounters with marine life.

For those who prefer to stay above the water’s surface, the beaches of Roatán offer a tranquil escape. From West Bay Beach, known for its powdery white sand and calm waters, to the secluded paradise of Little French Key, there is a beach for every taste. Spend your days basking in the sun, swimming in the warm Caribbean waters, or simply relaxing under the shade of a palm tree.

Aside from its natural beauty, Roatán also has a vibrant cultural scene. The island is home to a mix of international expatriates and Garífuna communities, adding a unique flavor to the local culture. Visit the Garífuna Village of Punta Gorda to experience traditional music, dance, and culinary delights. Engage with the friendly locals, who are known for their warm hospitality and willingness to share their island’s treasures.

When you’re ready to take a break from the beach, explore the lush interior of Roatán. Take a hike through the Gumbalimba Park, a nature reserve where you can encounter monkeys, tropical birds, and lush botanical gardens. Visit the Carambola Botanical Gardens and Nature Reserve to immerse yourself in the beauty of exotic flowers and plants while learning about their medicinal and cultural significance.

No visit to Roatán would be complete without indulging in the island’s culinary delights. Fresh seafood is a staple here, with dishes like conch ceviche, coconut shrimp, and grilled red snapper gracing the menus of beachfront restaurants. Pair your meal with a refreshing cocktail made with local rum to fully savor the flavors of the Caribbean.

Roatán truly has it all – pristine beaches, vibrant underwater ecosystems, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a combination of both, this tropical paradise will captivate you with its natural beauty and warm island vibes.

Tegucigalpa

Tegucigalpa, the capital city of Honduras, is a bustling metropolis and the cultural, political, and economic center of the country. Nestled in the central highlands, this vibrant city offers a mix of colonial charm, modern architecture, and a rich cultural heritage.

Start your exploration of Tegucigalpa in the historic center, where you’ll find narrow streets lined with colonial-era buildings and colorful murals adorning the walls. The Cathedral of Saint Michael the Archangel is a prominent landmark, with its stunning architecture and religious artworks. Visit the National Art Gallery to admire a diverse collection of Honduran art, showcasing the talent and creativity of local artists.

For a glimpse into the city’s past, head to the National Museum of Anthropology and History, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Mayan civilization and showcases the country’s cultural heritage. The museum provides valuable insights into Honduras’ pre-Columbian history and its diverse indigenous communities.

As you explore Tegucigalpa, you’ll discover a vibrant market scene that reflects the city’s rich cultural diversity. The Mercado Guamilito is a must-visit, where you can immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a traditional market. From fresh produce and handicrafts to local delicacies and traditional clothing, the market offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in Honduras.

When you’re ready to escape the urban environment, head to La Tigra National Park, located just a short distance from Tegucigalpa. This tropical cloud forest is a nature lover’s paradise, with hiking trails that wind through lush vegetation, stunning waterfalls, and an array of wildlife. Take in the breathtaking views from the Mirador El Picacho, a viewpoint perched high on a hill overlooking the city.

Tegucigalpa is also known for its lively nightlife and culinary scene. The city offers a variety of restaurants, from traditional Honduran eateries serving local dishes like sopa de caracol (conch soup) and carne asada (grilled beef) to international cuisine options. After dinner, you can explore the vibrant bar and club scene, where you can dance the night away to the lively beats of Latin music.

While Tegucigalpa offers much to explore and experience, it’s important to note that some areas of the city can be congested and safety precautions should be taken. It’s advisable to travel with a local guide, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area, to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Tegucigalpa is a city of contrasts, where modernity meets tradition, and history blends with contemporary culture. Whether you’re exploring its colonial architecture, immersing yourself in its vibrant markets, or savoring the flavors of Honduran cuisine, Tegucigalpa offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler.

Copán Ruinas

Located in western Honduras, Copán Ruinas is a captivating archaeological site that takes you on a journey back in time to the glory days of the ancient Mayan civilization. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, intricate sculptures, and impressive hieroglyphic stairway.

As you explore Copán Ruinas, you’ll be awestruck by the grandeur of the ancient Mayan city. The imposing pyramids, such as the Temple of the Inscriptions, rise majestically against the backdrop of the lush Honduran countryside. Marvel at the impressive stelae, intricately carved stone pillars that depict the history and mythology of the Mayan people. Be sure to visit the Great Plaza, the heart of the site, which features the iconic Hieroglyphic Stairway, a masterpiece of ancient Mayan artistry.

One of the highlights of visiting Copán Ruinas is the opportunity to witness the intricate beauty of the Mayan sculptures. The site is known for its extraordinary collection of hieroglyphic inscriptions, which have provided valuable insights into Mayan history and culture. Admire the detailed carvings on the stelae, altars, and ball court, which depict kings, gods, and important events in the lives of the Mayan rulers.

Aside from exploring the ruins, you can also visit the Copán Sculpture Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts unearthed at the site. Here, you can further immerse yourself in the rich history of the Mayan civilization by examining the intricately crafted ceramics, jade carvings, and other archaeological treasures.

After a day of exploration, take a stroll through the charming town of Copán Ruinas. The cobblestone streets are lined with colorful adobe buildings, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Sample traditional Honduran cuisine at one of the local restaurants, or indulge in a cup of delicious Honduran coffee. Don’t miss the chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their proud Mayan heritage.

For those seeking an even more immersive experience, consider visiting the nearby Macaw Mountain Bird Park and Nature Reserve. This sanctuary is home to a variety of colorful native birds, including scarlet macaws, toucans, and parrots. Take a guided tour to learn more about these magnificent creatures and their importance to the Mayan culture.

Visiting Copán Ruinas is like stepping back in time to a civilization that flourished centuries ago. Whether you’re intrigued by the archaeology, captivated by the art, or simply yearning for a deeper understanding of the Mayan world, this archaeological site offers an unforgettable glimpse into the magnificence of the ancient Mayan civilization.

The small Caribbean island of Utila, nestled in the Bay Islands of Honduras, is a paradise for divers and nature enthusiasts. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning underwater landscapes, Utila offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure.

Utila is renowned for its exceptional diving opportunities, making it a haven for both beginners and experienced divers. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are home to diverse marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks. Dive sites such as the famous Blackish Point and the Halliburton Wreck provide incredible underwater experiences with their vibrant corals, underwater caves, and underwater tunnels.

For those who prefer snorkeling, the shallow reefs close to the shore offer an abundance of marine life and colorful coral formations. You can grab a snorkel and explore the vibrant coral gardens just a few meters from the beach.

Beyond its underwater wonders, Utila is also a place of natural beauty and adventure on land. The island is surrounded by mangroves, mangrove forests, and lush vegetation, providing a habitat for diverse species of birds and other wildlife. Take a kayak or paddleboard tour through the mangroves, immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature and spotting unique bird species.

A visit to Utila wouldn’t be complete without exploring its charming town center. The town of Utila offers a laid-back Caribbean vibe with its colorful wooden houses, vibrant local bars, and friendly locals. Stroll along the main street, filled with shops, restaurants, and dive centers. Sample delicious seafood dishes made from locally caught fish and fresh ingredients.

To truly appreciate the natural beauty of Utila, head to the highest point on the island, Pumpkin Hill. Take a hike up the hill, surrounded by tropical vegetation, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the surrounding islands.

Utila also offers opportunities for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The island is dotted with beautiful beaches, where you can unwind and soak up the sun. Enjoy a peaceful day on the white sandy shores, with the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore and the refreshing sea breeze caressing your skin.

Whether you’re an avid diver, a nature lover, or simply seeking an idyllic island getaway, Utila has something to offer. From its captivating underwater world to its natural beauty and lively Caribbean atmosphere, Utila is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Nestled on the northern coast of Honduras, La Ceiba is a vibrant city known for its natural beauty, lively culture, and adventurous spirit. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and exciting outdoor activities, La Ceiba attracts both nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.

La Ceiba is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Bay Islands” due to its proximity to the stunning islands of Roatán, Utila, and Guanaja. From the city’s bustling port, you can catch a ferry or hop on a quick flight to explore these Caribbean paradises, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and world-class diving and snorkeling sites.

But La Ceiba has its own treasures to offer. The city is home to the Pico Bonito National Park, a biodiverse region filled with dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and an array of plant and animal species. Embark on a guided hike through the park’s trails, go birdwatching to catch a glimpse of elusive species like the keel-billed toucan, or zip-line through the treetops for an adrenaline rush.

A visit to La Ceiba is not complete without experiencing the excitement of the Cangrejal River. This scenic waterway offers thrilling whitewater rafting opportunities, allowing you to navigate through exhilarating rapids while surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Pico Bonito mountain range. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-time adventurer, the Cangrejal River promises an unforgettable experience.

La Ceiba is also renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, particularly during the annual Feria de San Isidro, a week-long carnival celebration. Join the locals as they fill the streets with music, dance, colorful parades, and traditional Garífuna and Afro-Caribbean cultural performances. The atmosphere is infectious, and the experience provides a unique insight into the local culture and traditions.

When you’re ready to relax and unwind, head to the city’s beautiful beaches. From the tranquil shores of Playa de las Palmas to the vibrant atmosphere of Playa La Ceiba, there is no shortage of places to soak up the sun, take a dip in the warm Caribbean waters, or indulge in beachfront dining.

La Ceiba is also known for its lively nightlife and delicious cuisine. The city offers a range of restaurants and bars where you can sample local delicacies, such as fried fish, baleadas, and coconut-infused dishes. In the evening, dance the night away to the rhythms of Latin music in one of the city’s vibrant nightclubs.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, natural beauty, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing beach getaway, La Ceiba offers a perfect blend of experiences. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, explore the stunning natural surroundings, and create unforgettable memories in this lively and captivating city.

Tucked away in the western highlands of Honduras, the colonial town of Gracias is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural charm. With its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial architecture, and stunning mountain vistas, Gracias is a destination that will transport you back in time and captivate your senses.

Gracias is best known for its rich colonial heritage, which is evident in the well-preserved historic center. Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s narrow streets, lined with charming Spanish-style buildings adorned with ornate balconies and vibrant facades. Marvel at the striking yellow and white facade of the Iglesia de la Merced, an iconic landmark that dominates the main square.

The town’s most famous attraction is Fortaleza de San Cristóbal, a 16th-century fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town. This ancient stronghold played a significant role in the region’s colonial history, serving as a defense against pirate attacks. Climb to the top of the fortress for panoramic views of Gracias and the surrounding mountains.

Gracias is also a gateway to the diverse natural wonders of western Honduras. Just outside the town, you’ll find the magnificent Celaque National Park, home to the country’s highest peak, Cerro Las Minas. Embark on a hiking expedition to conquer this challenging but rewarding summit, surrounded by lush cloud forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

For a more leisurely outdoor experience, visit the nearby hot springs of Gracias. These thermal waters are believed to have healing properties, and you can relax in the warm natural pools while enjoying the peaceful surrounding landscapes.

Gracias is a place where traditional culture and indigenous heritage blend harmoniously. Visit the Iglesia de San Sebastián, a beautiful church that showcases a fusion of European and indigenous influences in its architecture and religious artifacts. Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending one of the traditional festivals, where you can witness colorful parades, lively music, and traditional dances performed in vibrant traditional attire.

Indulge in the flavors of Gracias by sampling the local cuisine. Savor delicious traditional dishes such as baleadas, corn tortillas filled with beans, cheese, and meat, or try the famous Honduran tamales made with seasoned meat and wrapped in banana leaves. Wash it all down with a cup of exquisite Honduran coffee, known for its rich flavor and aroma.

Gracias is a destination that offers tranquility, beauty, and a glimpse into Honduras’ colonial past. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets, venturing into the natural wonders of the region, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Gracias promises an authentic and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Located in the heart of Honduras, Lake Yojoa is the largest natural lake in the country and a tranquil oasis surrounded by lush landscapes and picturesque mountains. This serene destination offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, explore scenic surroundings, and discover the rich biodiversity that thrives in and around the lake.

For nature enthusiasts, Lake Yojoa is a haven of natural beauty. The lake is nestled between the Santa Barbara and Cerro Azul Meambar National Parks, creating a stunning backdrop of rolling hills, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. Take a peaceful boat ride on the lake, surrounded by the tranquility of the water and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The lake is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 375 species of birds recorded in the area. As you stroll along the lake’s shores or explore the nearby nature reserves, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a wide variety of colorful and exotic bird species, including toucans, herons, parrots, and kingfishers.

When it comes to exploring the area, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Hike through the national parks to discover hidden waterfalls, explore winding trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, or go on a guided nature walk to learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region.

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Lake Yojoa offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and even zip-lining through the surrounding forests. Cast your line into the lake’s pristine waters and try your luck at catching local fish species such as tilapia and bass, or paddle along the calm waters of the lake, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

As you explore the area, be sure to visit the charming nearby villages that add to the unique character of Lake Yojoa. In the village of Pena Blanca, sample the local specialty dish called “tapado,” a seafood soup made with coconut milk, fresh fish, and shrimp. In the town of Los Naranjos, visit the Finca Santa Isabel, a coffee plantation that offers tours where you can learn about the process of coffee production and sample freshly brewed coffee.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, a nature-filled adventure, or a cultural experience, Lake Yojoa has it all. With its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and warm hospitality, this hidden gem in the heart of Honduras is waiting to be explored and admired.

Olancho, located in eastern Honduras, is a region known for its vast open landscapes, rugged terrain, and rich cultural heritage. This expansive area is a destination for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking a glimpse into rural Honduran life.

One of the main highlights of Olancho is its breathtaking natural beauty. The region is home to the Sierra de Agalta National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Embark on a hiking expedition through the park’s dense cloud forests, where you’ll encounter spectacular waterfalls, diverse plant life, and an abundance of wildlife. Keep an eye out for elusive species, such as the endangered big-eyed tree frogs and the colorful resplendent quetzal.

Olancho is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 400 species of birds documented in the region. Grab your binoculars and venture into the diverse ecosystems that include wetlands, mountains, and forests to spot magnificent species such as the great green macaw, the ornate hawk-eagle, and the keel-billed motmot.

For a taste of local culture, visit the town of Juticalpa, the bustling capital of the Olancho department. Explore the colonial-style architecture of the central plaza and admire the beautiful Cathedral of Santa María de la Inmaculada Concepción. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the local markets, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional foods unique to the region.

Olancho is also renowned for its cowboy culture and agriculture. The vast plains and fertile valleys make it an ideal region for cattle ranching and agricultural activities. Witness traditional cowboy rodeos known as “corridas de toros,” where skilled horsemen showcase their equestrian abilities and compete in various events, providing a glimpse into the proud cowboy heritage of the region.

As you explore Olancho, venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems such as the Guayape Lagoon. Located near the town of Catacamas, this tranquil lagoon is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching.

To truly experience the local way of life, consider staying in one of the small rural communities scattered throughout the region. Engage with the friendly locals, learn about their traditional farming practices, and savor authentic cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Olancho may be off the typical tourist trail, but its untamed landscapes, cultural richness, and warm hospitality make it a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re drawn to its natural wonders, intrigued by its cowboy culture, or simply seeking an immersive rural experience, Olancho offers a unique and unforgettable journey through the heart of Honduras.

Tips for Traveling in Honduras

Traveling to Honduras can be an enriching and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be well-prepared and informed before your trip. Here are some essential tips to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable:

• Stay informed on Safety: While Honduras has much to offer, it’s important to stay informed about local safety conditions, especially in certain areas. Research the current situation and follow travel advisories from your government or embassy. It’s also recommended to take precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping your belongings secure.
• Learn basic Spanish: While English is spoken in tourist areas, knowledge of basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience and make it easier to communicate with locals. Learning simple greetings, common phrases, and numbers can go a long way in building connections and navigating daily interactions.
• Dress appropriately: Honduras has a warm climate, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. However, it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or higher-altitude regions.
• Carry cash: Although credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments, markets, and transportation. Currency exchange is available at banks and authorized exchange offices, but check the current exchange rates beforehand.
• Be cautious with water and food: To prevent water-borne illnesses, drink bottled water and avoid consuming raw or undercooked food. Stick to reputable restaurants and street food stalls with good hygiene practices. Also, be mindful of washing fruits and vegetables with purified water before consuming them.
• Stay hydrated and protect from the sun: Honduras’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water and use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. It’s also advisable to wear a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing to stay cool and comfortable.
• Respect cultural norms: Honduras has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to show respect for local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, ask for permission before taking photographs of people, and be mindful of local etiquette and customs.
• Use reliable transportation: When moving around the country, use registered taxis or book transportation through trusted providers. It’s also advisable to arrange transportation in advance or use reputable ride-sharing services to ensure your safety and security.
• Take insect precautions: Honduras is home to mosquitos and other biting insects, so protect yourself by wearing insect repellent and covering exposed skin, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitos are most active. Consider bringing a mosquito net for added protection, particularly if you’re staying in more rural or remote areas.
• Travel insurance: Lastly, it’s highly recommended to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and any unforeseen incidents. Ensure that your insurance covers any activities or adventures you plan to partake in.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a safe and memorable trip to Honduras, exploring its natural wonders, embracing its vibrant culture, and creating lifelong memories.

Honduras, with its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, offers a myriad of experiences for any traveler. From the stunning Caribbean beaches of Roatán and Utila to the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán Ruinas, the vibrant capital city of Tegucigalpa to the tranquil lakeside retreat of Lake Yojoa, there is something for everyone in this captivating Central American country.

As you explore Honduras, take the time to dive into the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, hike through lush rainforests, immerse yourself in the fascinating ancient Mayan civilization, and sample the mouthwatering cuisine. Engage with the friendly locals, learn about their traditions and customs, and be mesmerized by the cultural diversity that shapes the country.

While traveling in Honduras, it’s important to stay informed about safety conditions, respect local customs, and take necessary precautions. Learning some basic Spanish phrases will enhance your interactions and show respect to the local community.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a combination of it all, Honduras has it all. From the vibrant cities to the unspoiled natural beauty, every corner of the country offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

So pack your bags, open your heart to new experiences, and embark on a journey that will leave you with beautiful memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of Honduras.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Utila, Honduras: Things to Do + Complete Travel Guide

Utila is one of the Bay Islands of Honduras, an arc of islands along the coast of the mainland and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.  Although not as well-known as its larger neighbor Roatan, Utila is a laid-back escape for divers, snorkelers, and beach lovers.  Discover all the things to do in Utila, Honduras and how to make it your next Caribbean getaway.

A favorite of scuba divers and backpackers, the six-mile long Isla de Utila is home to around 4000 year-round residents.  Many are “expats” from the U.S., Canada and Europe; they came to visit, and liked it so much they decided to stay!

Most activity in Utila is on the southeast side of the island, where the town wraps around a calm bay and harbor.  Utila Town’s main street is lined with colorful hotels, restaurants, and scuba schools, with just enough room for strolling pedestrians plus the motos and tuk-tuk taxis that buzz around the island. 

Utila is a popular place to learn to scuba dive, because of the reasonable prices of certification schools and the diversity of dive sites.  But there are plenty of things to love here if you’re not a diver: from beaches and deserted island day trips to Utila’s famed party scene.

So whether you want to learn to dive, experience relaxed island life, or just escape to a budget tropical destination, I’ve got all the travel tips you need to make Utila your next Caribbean island vacay.

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

In this Travel Guide to Utila, Honduras

How to Get to Utila | The Best Things to Do in Utila | Utila Scuba Diving | Best Beaches in Utila | Neptune’s Beach Bar | Utila Snorkeling | Day Trip to Water Cay | Pumpkin Hill Hike | Utila Free Diving | Jade Seahorse Sculpture Garden | Sunset Drinks | Local Conservation Efforts | Utila Nightlife | Golf Cart or ATV Rental | Where to Stay in Utila | Utila Restaurants | What to Pack for Utila | Where to Shop in Utila | Weather & When to Visit

Utila & Honduras Travel Basics

Where is Utila: The Bay Islands of Honduras – Roatan , Guanaja, and Utila in order from largest to smallest – are 40 miles offshore from the northern coast of Honduras.   Language: English is commonly spoken on Utila and you won’t have any trouble visiting with limited or no Spanish skills. In Honduras the official language is Spanish. Currency & Money: The currency of Honduras is the lempira, abbreviated HNL or L. The exchange rate is around 24HNL to 1USD. Most merchants on Utila will accept U.S. dollars as payment for a slightly lower exchange rate and return change in lempira. Plan to pay cash for most purchases, although hotels, dive shops, and higher-end restaurants generally accept credit cards. There are two ATMs in town and one bank. If you need cash, visit the ATMs early in the day; there are reports that they sometimes go down or run out of cash during peak season. Visas: Passport holders of 84 countries are eligible for visa-free travel to Honduras for tourism stays up to 90 days. This includes the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Travelers need a passport with at least six months validity, one empty passport page, and evidence of onward travel. COVID-19 Requirements: Effective June 2, 2021, fully vaccinated individuals with their original vaccination certificate are no longer required to provide proof of a negative COVID test upon entry in Honduras. An online immigration and health check form must be completed here up to 10 days prior to entry.  (The form has some bugs when completing in English – I found this hotel’s online guide to be helpful.) Safety in Utila : The Bay Islands don’t experience the same crime rates as mainland Honduras. Utila is a small, quiet island, and most travelers won’t run into any issues as long as they observe commonsense safety practices. On this trip, my mom traveled with me, but I would easily return as a solo traveler. Check out Honduras travel info from the U.S. State Department and consider enrolling in their STEP program to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in the event of an emergency.

How to Get to Utila, Honduras

To get to Utila, most travelers fly into either Roatan (RTB) or San Pedro Sula (SAP). From there, you can either take a ferry or local flight to Utila. Utila is located about 40 miles off the Honduran mainland.

San Pedro Sula has better pricing, including from the budget carrier Spirit. Roatan offers better routing, including direct flights from several cities in the U.S. and Canada on United, Delta, and American Airlines.

Flights to Utila

Utila has a small airport (UII), with flights arriving from Roatan (RTB) and San Pedro Sula (SAP).  

Search flights from Roatan | Search flights from San Pedro Sula

Getting to Utila by Ferry | Cheapest way to get to Utila

The most affordable way to get to Utila is via the Utila Dream Ferry , which currently has daily departures to and from Roatan and Utila.  From the Roatan Airport, it’s a quick taxi ride (around $20) to the Utila Municipal Dock where the ferry departs. 

The ferry from Roatan to Utila takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to travel the 30 miles between the islands.

There are also direct daily Utila Dream ferries between Utila and La Ceiba on the mainland.

Be sure to check the schedule before booking your trip, as it was limited during the pandemic; but currently routes depart daily.  You book your tickets online ahead of time or purchase them in person at the office. 

Utila Dream Ferry is very modern, with an air conditioned lower deck and an open air upper deck.  Ferry tickets include checked and hand luggage per passenger; check the terms and conditions here (in Spanish but you can use Google translate if needed).

Getting Around Utila

Tuk-tuk taxis turn up at the airport and ferry dock to transport new arrivals to local hotels. The tuk-tuks are affordable – I paid 100HNL (around $4) to get from the ferry to my hotel at the Point. You’ll see them around the island throughout the day and you can flag them down to get wherever you need to go.

Utila is quite walkable. From the center of town to Chepes Beach, it’s less than a mile or a ten minute walk. You can also rent bicycles, ATVs, golf carts, and scooters to see more of the island at your own pace.

The Best Things to Do in Utila, Honduras

Whether you’re a scuba diver, snorkeler, or just in need of a beach break, check out all the best things to do in Honduras for planning your itinerary.

Utila Scuba Diving and PADI Certification

Utila is one of the top Caribbean destinations for scuba diving certification.  It has some of the best diving in the region, as well as reasonable prices from the many well-rated dive centers on the island.  Schools like the Utila Dive Center often include accommodation in the price of dive packages or offer it for free with certification.

Diving is the #1 thing to do in Utila, and there are more than 100 dive sites along its coasts.  The variety of sites make it a great place for both new and experienced divers.  In addition, it’s possible to see whale sharks here, most commonly between the months May – June.

Most of Utila’s dive shops can be found online.  You can either check reviews and book online ahead of time, or arrive a few days early and get recommendations from other travelers.  I don’t dive, but did stop in a few places with questions about snorkeling and gear.  Some of the most popular and top-rated dive centers are:

• Alton Dive Center
• Bay Islands College of Diving
• Utila Dive Center
• Utila Lodge
• Odyssey Resort
• Captain Morgan’s Dive Center
• Tank’d Pro Dive Center

Best Beaches in Utila, Honduras

Utila is a small island, and many of the beaches in the town area are lined with hotels and restaurants.  But there are a few spots in town with ocean front, as well as other beaches around the island.

Bando Beach | Best Beach in Utila

Bando Beach is the private beach at Sea Eye Resort, located on “The Point” – the southeastern most spot on the island.   This beach has calm, clear waters and white sands, as well as lounge chairs, restrooms and showers, plus a beach bar and grill for drinks and meals. You can snorkel from the beach here during high tide.

If you stay at Sea Eye, use of the beach is included; or you can pay a small fee at the beach bar to get admission for the day.  This is the nicest beach on the island that is easily accessible from town and worth visiting for some beach time!

Chepes Beach | Playa Chepes Public Beach

Chepes Beach is the public beach in Utila, located as you head out of town.  This sandy beach has thatched palapa tables to rest your drinks when hanging out in the water.  There are popular bars/restaurants across from the beach like The Venue and the Beach House Lounge, and sellers offer drinks and baleadas on the beach.  To get here, walk from town or take a tuk-tuk taxi for a few dollars.

Pumpkin Hill Beach & Pumpkin Cove

The north side of the island is home to Pumpkin Hill Beach.  To get here, you’ll need to hire a tuk-tuk taxi or rent a golf cart or ATV for the day.  From June – October, turtles nest here.  This is a sandy but rocky beach, and mostly deserted.

The next beach over is Pumpkin Hill Cove, where you can find the start of the hike up to the Pumpkin Hill Lookout.  Rockies Bar at the start of the trail there is the closest place for a cool drink and a restroom.

Pro Tip: To get to Pumpkin Hill Beach, Google Maps tells you to take Monkey Tail Road to Lozano and then Pumpkin Hill Road.   However, a section of Pumpkin Hill Road is difficult to pass unless you have an ATV.  It’s easier to turn onto Rocky Hill Road, which then loops back around to Pumpkin Hill (although the map doesn’t show this yet).  Close to the beach there is a sign that tells you to turn right to go to Pumpkin Hill Beach, but this takes you to Pumpkin Hill Cove and Rockies Bar.  Instead stay straight to reach easy public beach access.

Iron Shore Beach

On the east side of the island, past the private residence communities you’ll reach Iron Shore Beach. “Ironshore” is a type of rock that forms in the Caribbean and creates a rocky rather than sandy ocean front.  To get here, follow the road past the Point and Bando Beach up the east side of the island. 

Neptune’s Beach Bar | Utila Beach Day + Snorkeling

Neptune’s is the beach bar and restaurant at Coral Beach Village resort.  It’s a great snorkeling spot, and there are picnic tables, beach loungers, and hammocks where you can hang out for the day.  It’s accessible via a free water taxi shuttle from the main island – just plan to spend money for drinks or lunch during your visit.

To get to Neptune’s shuttle boat, it’s a 10 minute walk from Chepes Beach.  Or take a tuk-tuk taxi for a few dollars.  To reach the ferry dock, turn off to the right just before you reach the Coral View Resort.  The water taxi shuttle leaves from the dock every hour starting at nine, and returns every half hour until 4 or 5 (be sure to ask at the beach bar for the last run, or it’s written on the chalkboard inside).   

Neptune’s at Coral Beach Village is a must for your Utila itinerary! The coral gardens here were my favorite in Utila, and you can swim from the beach or use steps at the pier. Just keep an eye out for boats of day trippers that arrive and depart from the pier.

Utila Snorkeling | Utila Coral Reef

Utila’s coral reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, a marine region that follows 700 miles of coastline off Mexico and Central America.  It begins along Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico and continues south to Belize, Guatemala, and the Bay Island of Honduras.  Even if you’re not a diver, you’ll want to grab a mask and snorkel the reef which is teeming with corals, fish, and marine life.

You can join a scuba diving trip – just ask ahead to be sure they can accommodate snorkelers.  Or you can book a snorkeling day trip.  Plus there are places to snorkel from the shore including:

• Bando Beach Club: If you’re staying at Sea Eye Hotel, beach access here is included; or pay a small fee to access the beach for the day.  On the left side of the beach, you can snorkel out past the seagrass at high tide to reach corals. 
• Coral View Beach Resort: Outside of town, the bar at Coral View Beach Resort is another great place to snorkel from their overwater beach bar. There are steps down to the water from the bar. Just plan to spend some $$ for drinks and/or lunch at the bar.
• Blue Bayou Beach Bar: Just next to Coral View you can also snorkel from this beach bar.
• Neptune’s Beach Bar and Water Cay: take a day trip to Neptune’s (see above) or Water Cay (below) to snorkel from the shore.

Utila Day Trip to Water Cay

Another “must” in Utila is booking a day trip tour to the Utila cays like Water Cay or Jewel Cay.  

Water Caye is an uninhabited island about ½ hour by speedboat from Utila.  Some tours will include a picnic lunch.  For others, you can bring drinks and snacks and ice, and ask your tour operator to borrow a cooler.  

Once at the island, you can swim and relax in the crystal-clear water on the south side of the island.  Or snorkel in the coral on the north side.  Be aware, the beach entry on the north side is rocky, so you might want to wear water shoes.  There are basic toilets on the island, but no other facilities.

Tour Operators to the Utila Cayes

Several tour operators on the island offer day trips to the cayes, including Sunbliss Utila , Utila Tours & Charters , and Bush’s Bay Island Charters .  You can meet them at their office, or if your hotel has a dock, they might offer pickup from your hotel.

We joined a tour with Sunbliss, but they were willing to do a private trip for us as well. 

Check out the tour companies on Facebook or message them there, via email, or on What’s App ahead of time, or stop in their office on the island.

Pro tip: Ice is sometimes in short supply on Utila.  If you’re lucky to have a small refrigerator at your hotel, put some extra bottles of water in your freezer the night before.  Stop into Bush’s market and pick up snacks and drinks.  Also you can make any bag into a cooler with a packable insulated pouch .

Pumpkin Hill Hike for Island Views

For the best views of the island, head up toward the north shore and Pumpkin Hill Beach.  Just before Rockies bar, turn right and you’ll see the start of the trail.  You can go part way in an ATV, but for the rest you’ll need to hike. 

Be sure to wear tennis shoes or hiking sandals, since the path is too rugged for flip-flops. The Keen Whisper sandals are my favorite for hiking in uneven terrain and around the water.

Utila Free Diving

Free diving, also known as breath-hold diving or skin diving, is a way to dive below the surface of the water without scuba or snorkel apparatus.  Freedivers learn discipline and breath-holding techniques that allow them to experience being underwater in a free state.  Check out Freedive Utila or Underwater Vision for more information or to enroll in a course.

Jade Seahorse Sculpture Garden

Tucked into the jungle off Lozano Road lies the unique and mysterious Jade Seahorse Sculpture Garden .  For a small entrance fee you can wander the garden and get Insta-worthy photos of the mosaic sculptures that completely fill its gardens.  There are also cabins for rent here, and the Treetanic Bar opens in the evenings.

Sunset Drinks | Top Things to Do in Utila

There’s nothing like finding a special place for sunset on vacation, and luckily they are in no short supply in Utila!  Many restaurants and beach bars overlook the water, offering spectacular ocean views and cool breezes.  Check out Mango Tango, the Beach House Lounge, Bando Beach Club, and the beach bars at Blue Bayou and Coral View.

Learn About Local Conservation Efforts in Utila

Discover the biodiversity of Utila and the Bay Islands and support conservation and rescue efforts by checking out these groups:

Kanahau Utila Research and Conservation Facility (KURCF) : Kanahau focuses on local species and environmental threats, management of natural resources of the Bay Islands, and encouraging environmental-friendly sustainable practices. They offer internship volunteer opportunities as well as Eco-tours. Stop in their research facility on Pumpkin Hill road for more information and to view their small museum.

Iguana Station Utila : The Utila Iguana Conservation Project works to preserve the endangered spiny tailed “swamper” Iguana ( Ctenosaura bakeri ), which lives in the Mangrove forests on Utila.  You can volunteer your time with them in many different ways.

Whale Shark & Oceanic Research Center ( WSORC ) : The Whale Shark and Oceanic Research Center organizes regular Ocean Safaris which monitor whale sharks and other species around Utila.

Jasper’s Utila Animal Shelter : Support this local animal shelter by donating your money or time. Short-term visitors can walk dogs or socialize cats, while travelers with longer stays can apply to foster or adopt!

Utila Nightlife | Top Things to Do in Utila

Utila is well-known as a party destination!  To get out and meet other tourists as well as locals, check out Tranquila, Treetanic, and Skid Row, the most popular bars on the island.  Mango Inn Resort is known for wood-fired pizza and drinks in a jungle setting.  Bando Beach Club often has beach parties on Saturday nights.

Rent a Golf Cart, Scooter, or ATV to Explore the Island

Want to discover more of Utila on your own?  You can rent a gas or electric golf cart for 2-6 passengers, an ATV, a bicycle, or a scooter to explore the island.  Check out Roneey Shuttle or Bodden Rentals for more info and pricing.  

Kayaking in Utila

Kayaking is another way to explore Utila! You can take a guided tour of mangrove channels on Utila on even explore the Utila Cays with guided trips from Kayak Utila .

Where to Stay in Utila | Best Utila Hotels

Most travelers in Utila opt for the accommodation at dive shops or budget stays along the Main Street (Calle Principal) in Utila.  Some of the best places to stay in Utila are:

• Utila Lodge : classic Utila accommodation and dive operator located close to the ferry terminal.  The hotel has a waterfront dock and bar for sunset as well as a restaurant.  With individual patios, included breakfast, and super friendly vibes.
• Manurii Boutique Hotel : this boutique hotel nestled in the Utila jungle offers modern rooms, a sparkling pool, and zen garden setting with rooms for up to 4 guests.
• Sea Eye Hotel : this resort is located at the Point, away from the bustling center of town (but just a short scooter or tuk-tuk ride away).  I stayed in the Tropical Building, and liked the quiet rooms, AC, friendly staff, and yummy breakfast with ocean views at the Bando Beach Club.
• The Odyssey Resort : bright waterfront resort with individual rooms as well as dorm beds close to dive shops on the quieter end of Main Street.
• Apartments Chez Milady : this top-rated budget stay is a little more off the beaten path, but gets excellent reviews for the helpfulness and hospitality of its owner.
• La Hamaca Hostel and Mango Inn are popular hostels on Utila.

Utila VRBO & Vacation Rental Stays

Looking for something more private or an extended stay?  Check out these Utila vacation rental options:

• Purple Jawfish Beach House : If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own beach shack, hurry up and book this adorable purple beachfront house for two!
• Coral House : Cheery, affordable 2-bedroom apartment set in a lush garden in Utila Town.
• Hibiscus House : Sleep with ocean breezes in this beachfront vacation home with space for up to 6 with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths.
• Casa Miradoura : Gorgeous 3 bedroom, 3 bath home located on a private beach near Neptune’s Restaurant, perfect for a family getaway.
• Luxury Oceanfront Home with Pool : Escape with family or friends to this luxury oceanfront home with a private pool. Located at Rocky Point on the east side of the island, about 10 minutes from town by golf cart or tuk-tuk.
• Sandy Bay Beachfront House : Large beachfront home with space for up to 8 in 3 bedrooms/3 baths, with amazing snorkeling just offshore.
• Casa Colorada : Stay in the Utila Cays in this apartment with direct beach access. Located 20 minutes by boat from Utila.

Search More Utila Vacation Rentals

Restaurants in utila.

Utila has a low-key restaurant scene, with a few standout options:

• RJ’s offers great seafood and steaks just steps from many of the dive centers on Utila.  
• Mango Tango is known for its ambiance and sunset view, as well as being the best restaurant on the island.  Check out their homemade pasta, “surf and turf,” and fresh salads.
• El Castillo is a fine dining restaurant in a beautiful garden setting offering Austrian, Caribbean, and Utilan cuisines.
• Baleada Mama Rosa is one of the most popular places on Utila to get baleadas, pupusas, and empanadas.  Baleadas are a traditional Honduran food made from a flour tortilla with a smear of mashed refried red beans, crema, and crumbled queso duro.
• Camilla’s Bakery offers fresh homemade bread, coffee, and breakfasts including fresh croissants until 2PM.  You can take it to go, or dine on their front patio.  At 5PM, the same space becomes Pizza Nut.

What to Pack for Utila, Honduras

Utila is a low-key destination, so you won’t need anything too formal.  Even at the nicer restaurants, men were in shorts and women wore casual dresses.  Be sure to bring insect repellent, reef-friendly sunscreen, and your own snorkeling or diving gear.

These are items that I included in my own packing list for Utila or recommend bringing:

• Reef-friendly sunscreen
• Rashguard top and UPF leggings : even better than reef-friendly sunscreen, you can opt for rashguards with UPF fabric.
• Insect repellent: I’d heard about “sand fleas” in Utila and brought plenty of insect repellent, both a spray and towelettes .  However, I realized after arriving that what was biting me might have been what are called in Florida “no see ums.” These tiny mosquitoes are kept at bay better with and oil-based lotion like Avon Skin So Soft .  
• Dry bag or dry backpack : we got thoroughly soaked on the return trip of our Water Cay tour because the winds really picked up.  A watertight dry bag or backpack will keep all your gear safe from the elements and around the water.
• Waterproof waist pouch or phone case : keep your valuables with you when you swim or snorkel with dry pouches or use a waterproof phone case to take photos in the water.
• If you’re an avid snorkeler, I always recommend getting your own gear including a mask , snorkel , fins , dive sock s (great for wading out on rocky shores), and a mesh gear bag .  If you wear glasses, prescription masks with optical correction are life-changing !

Where to Shop in Utila

There are several souvenir shops along the main street of Utila.  For unique gifts, check out the Utila Handmade Coop and the Utila Chocolate Co.

For groceries, Bush’s and the Caribbean market have the widest selection. Keep in mind that most commercial goods must be imported to Utila, so expect higher prices in the grocery store as a result.

Although there are many dive outfits on the island, the only places to buy gear are the Mares Store and the Dive Shack.  Both are within a block of the ferry terminal on the main street.  I needed fins, and paid around $30 for a good pair at the Mares store – less than I had priced on Amazon.  They had a good overall selection of gear.

Weather & Best Time to Visit Utila, Honduras

Utila is a year-round vacation destination. Daytime temperatures vary by only a few degrees through the year, ranging in the mid 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round (about 27-30 degrees Celsius).

The rainy season in Utila begins in late September and continues through early January. Rain won’t deter dive boats, however, unless the conditions are also very windy. Hurricanes are rare in the Bay Islands.

For the chance to see whale sharks, the best time to visit is March, April and May as well as August, September and October. The Christmas and New Year holidays, as well as Easter and Semana Santa, are peak times for tourists.

Utila vs. Roatan: Which to Visit & How Long to Stay

Trying to decide which of the Honduran Islands to visit, or how long to spend on each? On this trip, we split our time with four nights on Utila and then three at quiet, all-inclusive overwater bungalows on the East End of Roatan. This was a great balance, although I wish I could have stayed twice as long and added on Guanaja as well!

I liked the small island vibes of Utila, and being able to get around the island easily. However, Roatan offers many more options for upscale hotels, nightlife, and better beaches and snorkeling. It is also much larger and more commercial, catering to cruise ship tourists that arrive several days a week.

For learning to dive, I would pick Utila because of the budget prices, great dive center reviews, and friendly community. As often happens in small beach towns, we ran into some of the same people all over the island, and everyone was happy and laid back in a way you don’t experience in larger destinations.

For budget travelers, I would definitely recommend Utila over Roatan, especially for longer stays.

Want to extend your trip? Check out my guide to Roatan overwater bungalows !

Ready to Get Away to Utila?

Save this ultimate Utila, Honduras Guide for your trip planning!

The Haphazard Traveler is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Save for later or share with a friend!

I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

Roatán Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Where to Stay, Eat, Drink

At least one island vacation is on everybody’s before I die bucket list . It’s the go-to destination for unwinding, soaking in the sun rays and reclaiming “me time”. The curving 50km long and only 4km wide, Roatán is a diving, snorkeling, and fishing utopia. Fringed by an exceptionally diverse coral reef brimming with an abundance of tropical creatures, Roatán is the island destination of a lifetime.

On land, it’s equally intoxicating with mountainous geography full of pine-forested hills, powder white sands, and the undisturbed natural countryside of the East End. As the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras, wedged in between the Utila and Guanaja Islands, Roatan is the ideal location for quiet mornings, jam-packed afternoons, and romantic evening strolls along the beachfronts.

We have put together the ultimate Roatan travel guide filled with everything you must know for your bucket list getaway.

Ultimate Roatan Honduras Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

The Best Time To Travel To Roatán

Our Roatan travel guide starts off with the practicals. Roatán is visited all-year round by sun worshippers, but the rainy season lasts roughly between October and December. For the ideal weather – of warm temperatures and next to no rain – the months of February to March offer days with temperature in the 80s. These are the months to visit for consistently fair weather across the whole country. The trails and roads will be dry while the air is fresh, and the trees and underbrush will still be vibrantly green and lush . These are perfect conditions to explore this enchanting island.

Getting to and Around on Roatán Island

There are two viable options for getting to Roatán– boat or plane. The airlines servicing the island include Sun Country Air, United and American Airlines along with others. For weekly direct flights, travelers should take off from Miami, Minneapolis or Houston. For those traveling from Europe, there are occasionally charter flights to the island. 

For those looking to take to the seas, catch a bus, plane or car to La Ceiba – a port city on the north coast of Honduras. From here, a daily boat will transport you to Roatán Island, allowing you to feel the wind rustling through your hair while the subtle hints of coconut and banana welcome you to paradise. 

Once on island, the roads a decent so consider renting a car to be able to truly explore everything Roatan has to offer. There are also taxis and shared shuttles available. Those staying on the water can get around by water taxi.

The Guide on The Best Places to Stay on Roatan

There are a variety of lodging options on Roatan that offer something for everyone. From all inclusives, to luxury resorts to backpacker hostels, there is something for every budget.

Where to Stay in Roatan on a Budget

One of the best cheap hotels in Roatán is Hotel Chillies . Considered to be the ‘best budget hotel on Roatán’, Hotel Chillies’ cabins each have a wonderful porch with a hammock that gives you the opportunity to glimpse hummingbirds as they buzz by. There’s an excellent dive shop here called Native Sons . 

Alternatively, book a night in at the Roatan Backpackers hostel . This highly rated hostel is centrally located in Sandy Bay, near many of the dive shops and attractions on the island.

Land’s End , located in Roatan’s famous West End is another option for the budget traveler who wants to be in the center of it all. Located just steps from popular bars and restaurants, this is a great hotel to consider just a 6 minute walk from the beach.

Mid-level Budget Lodging on Roatan Island

For those that want to have a higher end experience but can’t spring for the luxury accommodations that Roatan has to offer, there are a number of choice hotels for you to choose from.

The restaurant at Blue Bahia Resort was one of our favorites on the island. Nightly specials and located right on the beach, this is a fun place to hang out in the evening especially if you are there during a night that they have live music. The hotel is comfortable, has a dive shop on site and you can choose between dipping in the swimming pool or enjoying the beach.

Another great mid budget option for lodging in Roatan is West Bay Lodge and Spa . With multiple types of villa accommodations to choose from, this is a good option for those traveling with a group. There is also a spa on site where you can enjoy massages and other treatments.

Best Luxury Hotels and Lodging on Roatan Island

Travelers that truly want to experience the best that Roatan has to offer are in for a treat as there are a number of incredible hotels and luxury lodging options to explore and this Roatan travel guide has made sure to include the best ones for you to drool over.

One of the best hotels on Roatan, Ibagari Boutique Hotel is recommended for those looking to relax and for the beach lifestyle. This is by far the most beautifully designed hotel on the island and should also get a note in our Roatan travel guide as a great place to eat and drink. In fact, their cocktails are some of the best we have tried anywhere in the world. The five-star resort has everything you could need, including a private garden and beach area, perfectly situated between West Bay Beach and West End. 

Puerta Azul is another fantastic option for those that want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the West End and Sandy Bay. Several luxury cottages nestled right on the beach with a delicious breakfast and a famous blue door that leads you to a long dock and hammocks overlooking the water.

Finally, one would be remiss not to include Grand Roatan Resort in a Roatan Travel Guide. Located at the tip of West Bay, right in front of some of the best snorkeling off Roatan Island, this five star resort is a place you could just stay at the whole week. Offering delicious food, a lively bar and beach front living, there is little to be missed at this large property.

Roatan Travel Guide of What to Eat in Roatán Island

As foodies, when creating our Roatan travel guide, we wanted to leave no stones unturned for the best local meals. From traditional island cooking to fine dining, Roatán offers a great selection of places to satisfy any taste buds and budget. 

Local Produce & Street Food Stalls 

According to locals, travelers should not miss the opportunity of tasting baleadas while in Roatán Honduras . Baleadas comprises of homemade tortillas filled with cheese, beans, cream and any additional fillings like avocado, chicken, egg or steak. Throughout the day and into the night, a group of ladies on the beach at Half Moon Bay, across from the Cocoloco gift shop, serve this wonderful local street food . And apparently, everyone who visits Roatán Honduras meets the Banana Donut Guy who does the best doughnuts in the region, selling them out of a large container in West Bay. 

Another gem in the West End is Sandy Buns Bakery. Bread is baked fresh daily, and if you want something specific that isn’t there you can put in an order and it will be ready for you the next day. The cinnamon roll at this bakery is to-die-for so make sure to give it a try if you have a sweet tooth (and even if you don’t).

Restaurants in Roatán Honduras

There are numerous restaurants in Roatan to spend your evenings in, but we’ve done the work and found the best for you! 

Fine Dining

Silversides is the best restaurant in Roatán for fine dining. They serve a selection of freshly made contemporary cuisine from around the world using local ingredients. All this on Barefoot Cay, a tiny island located off of Roatan. To get there a complimentary shuttle picks you up.

For something a little different, get in a car and drive to La Sirena de Camp Bay . This restaurant is positioned on a dock over Camp Bay’s glistening ocean and overlooks the island’s longest beach. Their speciality is serving fresh local seafood, such as lionfish and coconut shrimp. But be sure to sample their exquisite rum punch, too. 

Budget-friendly Restaurant 

Anthony’s Chicken is another favorite restaurant in Roatán Island, serving delicious chicken baleadas and many other classic Caribbean dishes. The jerk chicken is the dish to try here, and wonderfully most meals cost just over $5.

The Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Restaurant 

For a blend of fine dining and grill cuisine, head on over to The Beach Grill located at the Blue Bahia Resort for a broad menu of savory dishes at any time of the day. It’s more than a dining experience here, as the alfresco dining area sits next door to the pool and ocean, and in the evenings on Thursday, live music further sets the serene scene.

The Best Bar in Roatan Honduras

Are you looking for a fun bar to drink the day (and night) away? Head to Beacher’s Bar and Grill located in the heart of West Bay. A beach front bar and grill, you can enjoy laying on their complimentary beach chairs while sipping on Mojitos admiring the most famous beach in Roatan.

There’s an electric atmosphere here with live entertainment, and the delectable food and talented mixologists behind the bar continue this social scene way past the sunset on the beach. Depending on when you go, you might be in for a special surprise – some of the best local bands perform here to keep people dancing.

The Best Things to Do in Roatan , Honduras

No Roatan travel guide is complete without a detailed list of the best things to do and Roatan has plenty to keep anyone occupied.

Go Snorkeling in Roatán Honduras

With its pristine waters and vibrant marine life, snorkeling in Roatán is among the best things to do on this island. There are over 100 snorkeling spots in Roatan. But snorkeling in Roatán’s West Bay is considered the best. Not only is it easy access from shore to explore the reef but the reef here is truly incredible.

Picture snorkeling through canyons of beautiful coral with hundreds of fish around you. This is what you can experience when snorkeling in Roatan’s West Bay. You can reach the reef by swimming out via the rock wall at the beach’s southwestern edge right in front of Grand Roatan Resort, and you can rent snorkeling equipment from the beach.

Check out these snorkeling tours you can book in Roatan to be able to visit the best snorkeling spots.

Another fantastic location for snorkeling is off the coast of the West End. The easiest, safest, and the local’s favorite way to reach the reef is to take a water taxi from the West End pier. The Half Moon Bay and the Blue Channel are other excellent spots for snorkeling at the West End. 

Go Diving in Roatán

Scuba diving put Roatan on the travel map, and one of the best locations to go diving in Roatán is in the seamount of the Roatán Banks just before Cayos. Here you’ll find everything from giant barrel sponges, crabs hiding in the reef crevices and green morays. It’s an excursion you do not want to miss, so make sure to book one of the day trips.

People come from all over the world to dive in Roatan. The island sits on the second largest reef system in the world and reef here is protected by the local government. Diving in Roatan is all about the beautiful coral. There are many exquisite diving spots in Roatán, including many dive shops in the West End and throughout the rest of the island.

There are many dive tours and dive shops to choose from. In fact, we could write an entire Roatan travel guide focused solely on diving.

You can find various dive tours to book on Roatan here .

Try Some Water Sports 

On the East End of Roatán Island, Subway Watersports offers everything you could need – diving, diving training, island tours and excursions, kayaking, fishing, Whale Shark Safaris, pigeon cay and snorkeling. They are situated at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort and are easy to get to.

But if your hotel/accommodation happens to have a dock, they’ll also come and personally pick you up for your day in the water. Even if you don’t go with Subway Watersports, there are so many fishing trips, glass-bottomed-boat tours, kayaking and water-skiing opportunities on the island . Your hotel will be able to point you to those nearest to you.

Explore The Beaches on Roatan

The beaches on Roatán are havens of tranquillity and scenic beauty. West End beach is a hotspot for cruise ships, so make sure to visit this underrated beach before noon. The West End is the destination to go to if you’re looking for restaurants, beaches, shops to explore on foot during those few minutes you’re taking a break from sunbathing or swimming. There are also many Roatan vacation rentals, holiday rental homes, boutique hotels and apartments to rent next to this beach. 

Similarly, West Bay beach is a popular area for resorts, but has more of a touristy atmosphere than the West End’s laid-back vibe. There are plenty of sports activities to enjoy here, but the beach does get crowded especially on cruise days. Still, it is considered the most beautiful white sand beach on the island and is home to the best snorkeling on Roatan. 

Explore the Wild East End

A top recommendation in our Roatan travel guides for those staying longer in Roatan is to explore the East End. Unlike the rest of the island, the East End of Roatán is undeveloped and feels much more in keeping with traditional country island living. At this end of the island, travelers can find a variety of birds, armadillos, iguanas, butterflies and watusi (island rabbit) and the original forest growth make for a beautiful jungle hike. Also, cattle, horse and island farmers are often seen selling melons and bananas to anyone who passes by.  

One of the East End’s main highlights is the quaint fishing village of Oak Ridge, which looks like Roatán’s equivalent of Venice. Here, narrow streets, waterways and canals are adorned with wooden houses, while nearby communities can be reached by boat, such as Jonesville Point Marina. Here, The Hole in the Wall Bar is open for lunch and dinner, serving lobster and shrimp – a local speciality. 

A short distance from here is Camp Bay, a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach where travellers can experience lunch on a floating palapa bar. It should be noted that locals living on Roatan spend their vacations on the East End’s Camp Bay beach. From here, there’s a fantastic water taxi expedition to see the mangroves. Depending on who you tour with, you’ll see a half-sunken shipwreck called “Twitter’ and hear stories about the 16 th Century pirates. 

Visit the Carambola Botanical Gardens

With 40 acres of natural wonders, the Carambola Botanical Gardens promises ‘a walk on the wild side”. Here, travelers can explore their many jungle trails that offer excellent wildlife photography, bird watching and the Monkey La-La can be seen playing here. There are hundreds of plant species, orchids, exotic flowers, medicinal plants, fruit and nut trees, the “Chocolate Tree” and the famous Honduran mahogany tree that’ll capture the hearts of any plant lover. While here, make sure not to miss the chance to hike your way to the summit of Carambola Mountain, as there’s a cliff opening to some magnificent views. 

Visit the Local Roatan Villages & Harbors

There are many towns and harbors on Roatán Island, and the most commercial of them is Coxen Hole. Otherwise known as Roatan Town, this is where all the main shops and bus stops are. 

From Coxen Hole, the road leads to the small French Harbour , the islands second-largest town and busy fishing port. The French Harbour offers guests the chance to interact with rescue Sloths and Monkeys at Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hang Out .  

Also, French Harbour holds the only Mall on Roatán, so if you’re looking for a day of shopping, this is the place to go before chilling in one of its many down-to-earth coffee shops and restaurants. 

Visit Local Communities  

If you’re into history and culture, then visiting some local communities on the island will tick all your boxes. Just 5km from Oak Ridge is Punta Gorda, the oldest Garífuna community in Honduras, keeping many of its ancient traditions alive. The best time to visit is on a Sunday. Every Sunday, the community celebrates with traditional food, dancing and music. Alternatively, on the 12 th of April, the community celebrates the anniversary of their settlement’s founding, and all are welcome to join in! 

Another unassuming community lives in Sandy Bay. There’s the Institute for Marine Sciences here, with exhibitions on marine life and the island’s geology. There’s also a museum narrating the local history and archaeology. Sandy Bay is a history lover’s paradise!

Go Kiteboarding in Roatan, Honduras

Located on the East End at Camp Bay Lodge, Kitesurf Roatan is a great place to learn to kite surf or kiteboard whether you are starting from scratch or already getting up on the board. Steady wind and flat water makes this an ideal location for beginners who have never tried kiteboarding before to give it a go. Stay at Camp Bay Lodge and experience everything the east end has to offer while learning to kite board in Roatan.

Take a Weekend Trip to Utila

Staying in Roatan for at least a week? Why not hop on the ferry and head over to Utila. This can be done as an overnight trip or a weekend getaway. Utila is a small island (much smaller than Roatan) so you can explore it in only a couple of days. If you’re a diver, diving in Utila is very different than Roatan.

Although they are on the same large reef system, the reef in Roatan is actually different than what you see in Utila. It is also a very healthy, beautiful reef. There is an opportunity to swim with whale sharks or swim with Dolphins in Utila in between dives. This makes a dive trip a whole day trip experience.

Hopefully our Roatan travel guide has managed to convince you that Roatán Honduras is the perfect location for an island vacation . Its culture and history will surprise you, and its natural beauty will leave you speechless! Discover it for yourself before it becomes a tourist hotspot!

Bucket List Places Contributors

15 most beautiful places in slovenia you must visit, ultimate guide to hiking the w trek in patagonia, you may also like, kenya safari travel guide: the best parks to..., a guide to thailand’s remarkable temples, 10 day alaska road trip itinerary: ultimate alaska..., atacama desert travel guide: things to do, where..., most beautiful places in ethiopia: ultimate travel guide, 10 most beautiful places in laos to visit, ultimate guide to hiking the w trek in..., 15 most beautiful places in slovenia you must..., most beautiful places in new mexico: 14 best..., romantic boston for couples: the perfect date night....

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Travel safety: 17 CIA tips, advice to think like a spy on vacation

Editor's note: This story was originally published on July 9, 2022.

TEL AVIV, Israel – Before I hit the bike path for a long sightseeing excursion in this international hotspot, dressing down in muted colors, a nondescript baseball cap and a relatively cheap watch and shoes was as second nature to me as applying sunscreen.

As a longtime national security journalist who has traveled to some of the world’s grittiest corners, I learned long ago to make sure I’m that person who doesn’t stick out in a crowd and become a target for thieves, terrorists, or kidnappers – whether I’m on an assignment or a family vacation. 

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Central Intelligence Agency operatives on assignment overseas call it “being the gray man” who blends in and doesn’t alert the world to their American citizenship and all of the assumed wealth and baggage that can bring. I learned about this valuable safety tip during many “Hostile Environment Training” courses I’ve taken over the decades, including some I helped design for young journalists flying off to destinations overseas.

Live updates: Israel orders 'complete siege' of Gaza; at least 9 Americans killed

'We have to be on guard a lot': Why safety comes first for so many LGBTQ travelers

I was already thinking of brushing up on my travel safety tips when preparing to come to Tel Aviv when I happened upon a new CIA web posting with advice from its officers on how to travel safely and with confidence. 

The CIA released these tips – or travel tradecraft, in spy parlance – as part of its ongoing effort to demystify its work in assisting the American public, according to agency spokesperson Walter Trosin.

I found the CIA's best practices, culled from the experience of its officers in the field, are exceptionally helpful, easy to adopt and especially relevant to Americans in these fraught times.

Here’s how to think like a spy on the ground overseas, with some annotation based on my travels as anything but an American James Bond:

Objective one: Getting there

▶ CIA tip:  Make a paper and digital copy of your passport. While traveling abroad, it might literally be your ticket home if problems arise. If a hotel desk clerk asks to hold on to your passport, see if they’ll accept the paper copy. While you’re at it, write down some important phone numbers on the hard copy, including emergency contacts and the local U.S. embassy just in case.

Josh's tip: Email yourself the digital copy in case your phone goes missing along with your passport.

▶ CIA tip:  Register with your embassy. Think of it as establishing communications with your home base. This enables embassy staff to contact you if there’s an emergency or unfolding crisis. U.S. citizens can also sign up with the  State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .

▶ CIA tip:  Learn some local lingo. Bring a pocket guidebook or phone app so you can pick up key words and phrases.

Josh's tip: My go-to essentials include “thank you,” “please,” “hello,” “goodbye,” “yes/no,” “help,” “bathroom” and “police.” In worst-case scenarios, yelling out “no cash” helps if you believe you might be getting robbed, and “medic” and “hospital” if someone is hurt.

▶ CIA tip:  Know your destination. Bone up not just on travel books but also try to get a sense of the place and the geopolitical issues at play there. The  CIA World Factbook  is very helpful and publicly available for basic information. The CIA's World Factbook team also has created special travel briefings for many countries.

Josh's tip:  Look up the State Department Travel Advisories for your destination, though they often tend to be overly scary and alarmist.

▶ CIA tip:  Scout out local transportation. Upon arrival, ask an airport official or travelers’ aide how much it should cost to catch a public shuttle or taxi to your hotel. Check online sites too. Be sure to negotiate the taxi price before loading your baggage and getting inside. Only use cabs from the official queue – or ride-hailing services from official apps – that are clearly marked and have a functioning meter and the driver’s ID displayed inside.

Josh's tip: Ask ahead of time if they take credit cards or American currency. Even better, stock up on the local currency, preferably at an ATM where you can use a credit card that gets you a better rate than the money changers at the airport.

▶ Josh's tip:  Keep all your luggage close. This is especially the case when getting to and from your hotel. Bags can disappear at the luggage carousel, the taxi stand, hotel lobby, or any number of other places.

Story continues below.

Objective two: Settling in

▶ CIA tip:  Know your escape route from your hotel room too. Familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation plans. And do a run-through to determine how many doors there are between your room and the nearest stairwell. Could you find it in the dark? While holding your breath in a smoky haze?

▶ CIA tip:  Use the elevator, unless it’s an emergency. Using the stairs may be great for exercise, but crimes frequently occur in isolated stairwells.

▶ CIA tip:  Try to reserve a room on a middle floor. Being on the ground floor can leave you vulnerable to break-ins, but many countries’ emergency response personnel aren’t equipped to reach higher than a few floors off the ground.

Josh's tip:  If you’re in a particularly strife-torn locale, consider a room in the back of the hotel if you’re worried about car bombs or terrorist attacks. And just know that in some hotspots, bad actors will target hotel restaurants and other places where tourists congregate.

▶ CIA tip:  Lock it up. Automatic locks on hotel room doors can often be forced open, and the chains cut. Use the deadbolt if there is one. Better yet, invest in a cheap and easily portable rubber doorstop; they work amazingly well.

▶ CIA tip:  Beware of unsolicited knocks. Don’t open your hotel door unless you know or can verify who’s on the other side. Be especially wary of unrequested special delivery, maintenance calls, turndown service, or room service. Don’t be shy about calling the front desk to confirm.

Objective three: Going out and about

▶ CIA tip:  Lock it down. Whether renting a car or taking a taxi, lock the doors and keep the windows rolled up if you sense any danger – or crowds. Carjackers and snatch-and-grab thieves often prey on simple mistakes like an open door or window.

▶ Josh's tip: When using Uber, Lyft and many other ride-hailing apps, make sure you are getting into the correct car. If something feels wrong, don’t get in.

▶ CIA tip:  Stay alert. CIA officers (the real term for overseas spies, not agents) are trained to be highly attuned to their surroundings to constantly maintain situational awareness. Use all five senses to pay attention to what’s happening around you, and you’ll not only spot telltale signs if something is amiss but retain more of your destination’s unique atmosphere.

Josh's tip: You don’t always need to sit with your back to the wall like Jason Bourne but being able to see the entrances – and know the exits – is important if you need to get out quick.

▶ CIA tip:  Be mindful when drinking adult beverages. Spies might swill martinis in the movies, but alcohol impairs alertness and judgment and could put you at risk, especially in an unfamiliar country. Learn the local customs and restrictions on alcohol consumption and follow them closely.

Josh's tip: Make sure you can see your drinks being poured and transported to you to make sure no one is adding any intoxicants. Avoid using or purchasing recreational drugs even if locals insist they’re safe and legal.

▶ CIA tip:  Walk the walk. Your confident demeanor on the street is often the best deterrent against criminals. Be the gray man or woman and you won’t look like an easy target. Don’t attract attention by looking confused, lost, or distracted. Avoid poring over maps and phone apps in busy areas. And don’t be flashy. Flaunting extravagant watches and other personal items or cash will attract thieves and opportunists.

▶ CIA tip:  Plan your route and reroute as necessary. Whether traveling by foot, car, or public or private transit, prepare in advance. Bone up on the potentially dangerous parts of town so you can avoid them. Don’t walk alone at night, stick to well-lit areas that aren’t too isolated if you can and know the number of the local authorities just in case. Avoid crowd commotion, as it could mean escalating danger or even a distraction designed to help someone target you.

Josh's tip:   Carry an emergency whistle handy to scare off potential assailants.  

With these tips, I spent the day biking throughout Tel Aviv and the nearby port of old Jaffa, home to a vibrant multiethnic community of Muslims, Christians, and Jews. The city was on edge a bit due to a recent wave of terrorist attacks , but I thoroughly enjoyed my time chatting up the locals and sampling their food and drink knowing I was doing everything I could to stay safe.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Travel safety: 17 CIA tips, advice to think like a spy on vacation

So you finally got TSA pre-check. Here's how to avoid being the most annoying person in line and get through fastest.

• TSA PreCheck is an airport-security express lane that can save you time while traveling.
• The program now has more members than ever — over 20 million passengers are enrolled.
• Gilbert Ott, a travel expert, said that these etiquette tips can keep you from holding up the line.

TSA PreCheck can save you so much time in airports, and more travelers than ever are getting in on it. 

The TSA reported on August 8 that more than 20 million travelers are enrolled in the program — a new record number of users since PreCheck first became available in 2013.

In the TSA PreCheck line, pre-screened travelers can go through security quickly without taking off their shoes or removing electronics or liquids from their carry-on bags . It costs $78 to enroll for five years, but you can get the service essentially for free through credit cards such as Capital One Venture, Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Delta SkyMiles, and American Express.

Gilbert Ott, who says he flies more than 200,000 miles a year and has been blogging about flying for the past decade, told Business Insider that the express airport-security lane makes his life easier. Ott's blog, called God Save the Points , covers everything from airline news and flight reviews to travel tips and money-saving hacks, such as how to best use credit-card points. 

"I spend too much time in airports. As much as I may love them, sometimes the less time I spend in them, the happier I am," Ott said. "So the quicker I can get through and just be on a plane, the better."

While the TSA PreCheck line is often full of frequent flyers , those who are new to the program, which requires a background check, may not be as savvy when it comes to security etiquette, especially during a busy holiday rush. Ott said this can cause the line to move slower, but he shared his best tips for TSA PreCheck travelers.

Pre-strip before you even get to the airport

Pre-stripping is removing everything you may need to take off at security, from big jackets to the contents of your pockets, before you get there.

"When I go to the airport, I take my belt off before I get there. I have it in my backpack , knowing I'll put it on as soon as I get through PreCheck," Ott told BI. "So keep the jewels and the watch in your bag. Then, when you get to the other side of security where you're not holding people up, you can do the glamour."

Ott said this process will make people move through the line quicker. 

"My routine is somewhere along the lines of comfy jeans, a T-shirt or hoodie, and then a bomber jacket," he said. "Essentials like my phone and passport go in my bomber jacket pockets while I wait in the queue so that when I step up to the scanners, my jacket is off, pockets are empty, my bags go on the trays, and off we go."

Related stories

Leave the flashy shoes in your bag

TSA PreCheck passengers aren't required to take off their shoes. But in Ott's experience, passengers who wear fancy loafers or shoes with buckles or studs often get stopped because they set off the scanner. 

"The main thing is metal, either as part of the shoe or in the boot or heel of the shoe," Ott said. "Ceramic and rubber are usually fine. Basically, sneakers tend to always work."

Be ready before it's your turn

When you first get in line, Ott recommends having your boarding pass and identification out before it's your turn to show them. That way, you won't spend time searching for these documents while others wait behind you. 

If everyone followed Ott's advice, he said he thinks we'd all get through security faster. 

"If you think of the 20 seconds it takes somebody to do this very basic thing, and you'd multiply that by 50,000 people going through an airport's screens a day, you could pretty much just walk through an airport without stopping," Ott told BI. "We can all have a better time."

• Main content

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Find Posts By Topic

• Accessibility
• Community Involvement
• Move Seattle
• News Releases
• Pedestrians
• Vision Zero
• Traffic and Construction
• Trees and Vegetation
• Winter Weather

Travel tips for August 14-27: construction, sports, and community events as summer flies by

Blog stats: 2,500 words | 12-minute read

At-a-glance:

• Stay in-the-know about our upcoming construction activities, professional sports games, and community celebrations taking place in the Seattle area, so you can travel with confidence in the weeks ahead.

SDOT construction, street closures, and travel impacts

Regional transportation agency work, major league sports home games.

• Community celebrations
• Visit our SDOT team at several events
• We also encourage you to follow us on X at  @seattledot  and  @SDOTTraffic , and visit the websites of our regional partner agencies, including  WSDOT ,  King County Metro , and  Sound Transit .
• You can also visit our  Project and Construction Coordination Map  for a map of various construction projects taking place throughout the city.
• We’re publishing these blogs during the summer to help you plan ahead and know what to expect when you travel.

Please note: Our construction projects take place throughout Seattle. To stay informed about projects near you, subscribe to our email updates . You can select from a list of projects and subscribe to the ones you’re most interested in. Thank you.

• Repaving of the South Spokane Street Viaduct requires a series of weeknight and weekend lane closures. Some of these include a full closure of all eastbound lanes, as well as a weekend-long closure of all westbound lanes.
• Read our  recent blog post or  visit the project web page for more information .
• On Saturday, Aug. 24 to Sunday, Aug. 25, we will pave N 130th St between Corliss Ave N & 1st Ave NE. Working hours are 7 AM – 5 PM.
• One travel lane in each direction will remain open during work and no impacts to sidewalks are expected.
• Corliss Ave N and Sunnyside Ave N will be closed at N 130th St during this work.
• Learn more about the project on our website .
• As soon as Monday, August 19, we will begin ‘slurry seal’ work in an area of Northeast Seattle. You can find a map here .
• This is a cost-effective method to renew the street surface and seal minor cracks and other irregularities. This preventive maintenance protects the pavement and stops moisture from getting into cracks in the pavement and causing damage.
• No parking signs will go up 3 days prior to work taking place and cars will need to be moved.
• During and after slurry seal work on each block, people will not be able to drive, park, or walk on the new street surface for up to 8 hours. Cars parked on the street where no parking signs are placed will be towed. 
• Learn more on our website .
• We are paving 11th and 12th Aves NE between NE 47th St and NE 67th St until early September.
• One travel lane remains open at all times.
• Parking is restricted 24/7 on both sides of the street during paving work.
• In preparation for intersection paving, S Main and S Washington streets between Alaskan Way S and 1st Ave S will be closed to vehicle traffic from Thursday, August 15 through Sunday, August 18.
• Access to Firehouse Alley will be maintained. People driving can enter and exit the alley at Yesler Way and S Jackson St.
• People driving on 1st Ave S will detour via Yesler Way and S Jackson St.
• Sidewalks on both sides of 1st Ave S, S Main and S Washington streets are planned to remain open for pedestrian access, with at least one east/west crossing maintained at both S Main and Washington streets.

King County Metro (in partnership with SDOT)

• South Lake Union Streetcar service is currently suspended for several weeks while King County Metro crews address mechanical issues with the two substations that power the streetcar due to an unplanned outage. We are working with Metro to repair the issue as quickly as possible. Click here for more information .
• Route 40: Timetable and route map
• Route 70: Timetable and route map
• RapidRide C Line: Timetable and route map

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)

WSDOT is continuing its work on several projects affecting major highways in and around Seattle. Below is a summary of the closures with the largest travel impacts.  Visit WSDOT’s website  for the latest information and resources to stay informed. Please note: this work is weather-dependent.

I-5 area work:

• This closure includes the University Street on-ramp to northbound I-5 each night (closes at 9 PM).
• Southbound I-5 mainline and express lanes off-ramps to Mercer Street (Exit 167) | Closed from 10 PM Friday, August 16 through 5 AM Monday, August 19, and again from 10 PM Friday, August 23 through 5 AM Monday, August 26 for median barrier installation along both off-ramps as part of the SR 520 I-5 Express Lanes Connection Project .
• Southbound I-5 in South Seattle | Up to 3 lanes of southbound I-5 at mid-Boeing Field will close for expansion joint repairs from 10 PM Friday, August 23 through 5 AM Monday, August 26.This is for the I-5 Duwamish River to South Lucile Street Concrete Rehabilitation Project .
• Travelers in both directions of I-5 should expect multiple lanes and ramps to be closed during overnight hours from Sunday nights through Friday mornings for the next few weeks.
• This is also part of the I-5 Duwamish River to South Lucile Street Concrete Rehabilitation Project .
• I-5 express lanes | The I-5 express lanes will close early at 9 PM weeknights Monday, August 12 through Thursday, August 15 to accommodate construction work in the lanes.

SR 520/Montlake Blvd area work:

• Lane reductions along eastbound SR 520 | Up to 2 left lanes along eastbound SR 520 on the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge between Seattle and Medina will be closed for bridge deck sealing work. From 9 PM to 5 AM weeknights Monday, August 19 through Friday, August 30. This is part of the SR 520 – Floating Bridge and Approaches Bridge Decks and Soffit Sealer project .
• Montlake Blvd and nearby ramp closures | From 10 PM Friday, August 16 through 6 AM Monday, August 19, Montlake Blvd will close in both directions between E Louisa St and E Hamlin St (over SR 520). E Roanoke St between E Louisa St and E Montlake Pl and Lake Washington Blvd between Montlake Blvd and E Foster Island Rd will be local access only. All associated ramps to and from SR 520 at Montlake Blvd will also be closed. There will be a signed detour for bicyclists and pedestrians. For more details, visit the SR 520 Construction Corner website .
• Full SR 520 closure between Seattle and the Eastside | SR 520 will fully close in both directions between I-5 and the Eastside from 11 PM on Friday, August 23, to 5 AM on Monday, August 26. Crews will pave and install utilities and under lid lighting. For more details, visit the SR 520 Construction Corner website .

I-90 area work:

• Westbound I-90 between Mercer Island and Seattle | The two left lanes on westbound I-90 between Island Crest Way on Mercer Island and Rainier Ave S in Seattle will be closed for routine tunnel maintenance. From 10 PM Friday, August 16 through 6 AM Saturday, August 17. This includes the HOV-only Island Crest Way on-ramp to westbound I-90.

Seattle Mariners

Upcoming games at T-Mobile Park

• Friday, Aug. 23 at 7:10 PM: San Francisco Giants
• Saturday, Aug. 24 at 1:10 PM: San Francisco Giants
• Sunday, Aug. 25 at 1:10 PM: San Francisco Giants
• Monday, Aug. 26 at 6:40 PM: Tampa Bay Rays
• Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 6:40 PM: Tampa Bay Rays

To learn more:

• https://www.mlb.com/mariners/schedule

If you’re riding the Link light rail, get off at the Stadium Station and walk a short two blocks over to the ballpark. If taking rideshare, there is a designated rideshare lot southeast of the stadium. If driving, the Mariners Garage opens 3 hours before first pitch. Biking, scooting, walking, or rolling to the game may also be great options, depending on your trip specifics. Find more information on navigating to T-Mobile Park here .

Seattle Storm

Upcoming games at Climate Pledge Arena

• Monday, Aug. 26 at 7:00 PM: Washington Mystics
• https://storm.wnba.com/schedule/

For all major ticketed events at Climate Pledge Arena, guests receive a free public transit pass alongside their ticket. If driving to the arena, there are three parking garages available nearby. Find more information on navigating to the arena here .

Seattle Sounders FC

• No upcoming games at Lumen Field in this timeframe.

Seattle Reign FC

Upcoming games at Lumen Field

• Sunday, Aug. 25 at 7:00 PM:  North Carolina Courage
• https://www.reignfc.com/schedule

If you’re riding the Link light rail, get off at the International District/Chinatown station and walk three blocks over to the field. For rideshare, get off on the north side by S King St & Occidental Ave S or on the south side by S Royal Brougham Way & Occidental Ave S. If driving, the Lumen Field Parking Garage is located south of the stadium and a North Lot is also nearby. Both open at 6 AM on event days and close 2 hours post-event. Biking, scooting, walking, or rolling to the game may also be great options, depending on your trip specifics. Find more information on navigating to Lumen Field here .

Community Celebrations

August 17: puppy crawl at bell street park – belltown.

Take a Saturday stroll with your furry friend. This event provides treats and goodies for your pup along the way. This is the last Puppy Crawl scheduled for this summer. Read here for more information on the Puppy Crawl.

The Puppy Crawl at Bell Street Park can be reached by King County Metro bus. Or, give your dog an extra stroll opportunity by walking, biking, or rolling to the event.

August 23: WABA Korea Expo & Festival – Magnuson Park Hangar

The Korean American Chamber of Commerce is hosting a day packed with a variety of local and global businesses. Attendees can expect over 80 booths displaying Korean food, culture, beauty products, merchandise, and performances. Read here for more information on the WABA Korea Expo & Festival.

WABA Korea Expo & Festival can be reached by  King County Metro  bus. Or, depending on your trip, walking, biking, or rolling might be great ways for you to get to the Magnuson Park Hangar.

Aug 25: Ballard Bites and Brews – Ballard

Indulge in bites from local restaurants and drinks from the Ballard Brewery District all accompanied by an evening of live music. This 21+ festival helps raise funds for the Ballard Food Bank and provides the community an opportunity to get together and celebrate summer. Read here for more information about the Ballard Bites & Brew event.

Ballard Bites and Brews can be reached by  King County Metro . Walking, biking, or rolling, are also great ways to get to the event.

Visit our SDOT Team at these community events

• Big Day of Play | Saturday, August 17, 12-5 PM | Rainier Playfields (3700 S Alaska St,  Seattle, WA 98118, Google Maps Link ) 
• Rainier Beach Back2School Bash | Saturday, August 24, 12-4 PM | Be’er Sheva Park (8650 55th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118, Google Maps Link ) 

More community events

• Aug 14: Wallingford Farmers Market | Learn more online
• Aug 15: Sip, Savor, Repeat Wine Garden | Learn more online
• Aug 16: Kane Brown | Learn more online
• Aug 16: Peso Pluma: Exodo Tour | Learn more online
• Aug 16: Friday Beer Garden at Westlake Park | Learn more online
• Aug 16: Sunset Supper at Pike Place | Learn more online
• Aug 17: Brewer Running Series X Lucky Envelope Brewery | Learn more online
• Aug 17: Seattle Design Festival Block Party | Learn more online
• Aug 17: Big Day of Play | Learn more online
• Aug 17: SOPASUPA South Park Summer Party | Learn more online
• Aug 17: Chinatown ID Block Party | Learn more online
• Aug 17: Columbia City Night Market | Learn more online
• Aug 17: Maple Leaf Park Movies by the Tower | Learn more online
• Aug 17: TSA White Center Fund Run | Learn more online
• Aug 18: BEGO Ethiopian Summer Festival | Learn more online
• Aug 18: Foo Fighters Everything or Nothing at All Tour | Learn more online
• Aug 18: Seattle Design Festival Block Party | Learn more online
• Aug 20: Brews and Tunes | Learn more online
• Aug 21: Wallingford Farmers Market | Learn more online
• Aug 22: Twenty One Pilots | Learn more online
• Aug 22: Sip, Savor, Repeat Wine Garden | Learn more online
• Aug 23: Chayanne – Bailemos Otra Vez tour | Learn more online
• Aug 23: Friday Beer Garden at Westlake Park | Learn more online
• Aug 24: Admiral Funktion Block Party | Learn more online
• Aug 24: Anjunadeep Open Air Seattle | Learn more online
• Aug 24: Maple Leaf Park Movies by the Tower | Learn more online
• Aug 24: The Great Cross Sound Race | Learn more online
• Aug 27: Jeff Lynne’s Elo – The Over and Out tour | Learn more online

We hope this post provided you with valuable information on upcoming construction and community events. Stay tuned for more updates and tips like this throughout the summer. Thank you!

Latest news.

Sign up to receive updates from the SDOT Blog via email.

Browse the Archive

Richard Branson’s Private Caribbean Island, Beautiful Vineyard Wedding Destinations And More Travel News

Plus: How Disney is expanding its theme parks, Qsuites get an upgrade, and expert tips for combatting travel anxiety.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Live Like Royalty at Richard Branson’s Private Caribbean Island

Since 2014, billionaire Richard Branson’s Moskito Island, a 125-acre retreat in the British Virgin Islands, has been a vacation destination for jetsetters. Now four homeowners on the private Caribbean island have decided to rent their estates . Each villa can accommodate around 20 guests, all of whom have access the island's three beaches, botanical gardens, swimming pools and several bars. Two tennis courts, hiking trails, a gym and a water sports center are also available to all island guests.

What To Know About Disney’s Expansion Plans

It may be a small world after all, but Disney is always looking to expand it. This week, the entertainment giant’s theme park division announced major changes to Walt Disney World in Orlando and Anaheim’s Disneyland. Among the new projects are a Villains Land and a Monsters, Inc. roller coaster in Orlando and a new Avatar ride and several new Marvel Studios attractions in California. Here’s what you need to know about Disney’s expansion plans .

This is the published version of Forbes’ Passport newsletter, which offers a first-class guide to luxury travel. Click here to get it delivered to your inbox every Friday.

Europe’s most beautiful vineyard wedding venues.

With vineyard weddings becoming a bigger trend, the European ferry operator DFDS recently conducted a study to identify the most beautiful wineries in Europe that also serve as wedding venues . From the hills of Italy and France to standout vineyards in Croatia and Albania, here’s where to say “I do” with a Premier Cru.

Travel anxiety can ruin a vacation even before it begins. Here are five expert-recommended approaches—using psychological techniques, spiritual aids and mindfulness practices—to help you manage—and overcome—travel anxiety .

Inside Qatar Airways’ New Business Class Qsuite

Ever since Qatar Airways revolutionized business class travel in 2017 with the introduction of the Qsuite, premium seating with a door is now the gold standard for long-haul travel. Last month, in an effort to compete with other carriers, Qatar Airways revealed major upgrades to its Qsuite service . In addition to longer and wider seats—which can be configured into a double bed—the new Qsuite also features 22” 4K OLED screens and Starlink WiFi. But the biggest change is that two window seats can now be combined to face one another to form a “Companion Suite.” But behave yourself—the walls to the cabin aren’t a mile high.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

The best travel souvenir is one for your bar

Packing alcohol in a checked bag lets you savor the experience of going abroad all over again.

Welcome to The Upgrade, By The Way’s series on travel hacks and hot takes. See how to submit here.

When most people travel abroad, they think about what type of goodies they plan to bring home.

Some might buy clothes, food or art. Others might be satisfied with a simple keychain. I like collecting bottles of alcohol.

I try to bring back as much liquor as I can fit in my luggage without being fined by customs. Every country has its own rules for how much you’re allowed to bring back. When returning to the United States, you’re allowed only one liter for personal consumption duty-free.

My bag might be a bit heavy, but I am excited to get my drinkable souvenirs back to my home bar. Bottles can break in your bag if you don’t pack them right. I put mine inside socks (at least two pairs) to safeguard the booze.

Once you’re home, introducing friends to the Nauticus whisky from the popular cocktail bar in Edinburgh or pálinka from Hungary is magical. One sip can transport you back to the country you just visited as you regale your friends about the good times you had. And if a bottle were gifted to you, even better; each glass brings back fond memories of the friendship that was formed.

On my only trip to Cuba, in 2017 when the Obama administration loosened restrictions and allowed travel from the United States, I grabbed as many bottles of different rums as possible, like I was in the game show “Supermarket Sweep.” I wasn’t sure whether I would be able to go back and visit. I still have a small bottle of Ron Mulata Añejo 7 Year Old, a popular Cuban brand made from Cuban sugar cane syrup, reminding me I need to eventually plan a visit back to the island to replenish the rums I drank over the years.

From Ireland, the best bottle I got in my collection was homemade poitín ( local moonshine ) that I shared with my mom, who’s not much of a drinker. Surprisingly, she loves poitín, and now I have to bring her back a bottle every time I visit. While in Romania, I was given a bottle of tuica, a plum brandy, that my friend’s parents made in their home. (They found out I was doing research on this spirit and wanted to make sure I tasted the real thing instead of the bottles sold in the stores.)

When I visited Georgia last year, the first thing that came to my mind was to pack light so I could bring back more bottles of wine to enjoy in Berlin. You’re allowed four liters of non-sparkling wine without having to pay a fee. While I was in Tbilisi, I got to sample chacha, a traditional grape pomace brandy, that I enjoyed. I just knew I had to get a bottle.

I felt lucky when I was introduced to Meriko Gubeladze while dining at her restaurant Ninia’s Garden . When she found out how fond I was of the Georgian brandy, we had a shot together, and she gave me a bottle to take home. It’s still sitting on my bar, waiting for me to crack it open and dream of my next trip to Georgia.

As a person who writes about booze, my home bar is overflowing. But I still love adding to my collection. It is not just about the alcohol and how it tastes, but about how the spirit is connected to the cultural identity and heritage of the country.

Yolanda Evans is a drink and travel writer based in Berlin. Follow her on Instagram @yevans007 .

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .