Overview
Honduras, located in Central America, is a hidden gem for travelers looking for adventure, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty. From its Caribbean coast with pristine beaches to its ancient Mayan ruins and lush rainforests, Honduras offers a diverse range of experiences. Whether you’re hiking in national parks, diving in the second-largest coral reef in the world, or exploring charming colonial cities, Honduras is perfect for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Quick Facts
- Language: Spanish (official), English is spoken in some tourist areas
- Currency: Honduran Lempira (HNL), U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted
- Climate: Tropical, with a rainy season (May to October) and dry season (November to April)
- Best Time to Travel: December to April for dry weather, especially ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration
- Visa: U.S. and many other nationals do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days
- Power Plugs: Type A, B, 120V
- Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST), UTC -6
Where to Fly Into
Tegucigalpa’s Toncontín International Airport (TGU) and San Pedro Sula’s Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (SAP) are the two main international gateways to Honduras. For those visiting the Bay Islands or the northern coast, the Roatán International Airport (RTB) is a great option.
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget options range from $10-40 per night, mid-range accommodations from $50-100, and luxury resorts from $150+ per night.
- Food: Street food and local meals cost around $3-10, while a casual restaurant meal can range from $10-20.
- Transport: Public buses are cheap, with short trips costing around $1-3. Taxis are also available, with prices varying by region.
Climate
Honduras has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. Coastal areas tend to be hot and humid, while the highlands have cooler temperatures year-round.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F)
- Summer (June to August): 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F)
Safety
Honduras has areas with higher crime rates, particularly in larger cities, but many popular tourist destinations, including the Bay Islands and Copán, are considered safe for visitors. It’s important to stay vigilant, especially in urban areas, and use reputable tour operators when exploring remote regions.
Top 10 Things to Do in Honduras
- Explore the Mayan Ruins of Copán: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to impressive ancient Mayan ruins, with beautiful stone sculptures and temples to discover.
- Relax on Roatán Island: Known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere, Roatán is the ideal destination for beach lovers and divers.
- Hike in Cusuco National Park: A stunning park in the cloud forest, Cusuco is perfect for nature lovers, offering hiking trails and opportunities to see rare wildlife like jaguars and quetzals.
- Snorkel or Dive the Mesoamerican Reef: The Bay Islands, including Roatán and Utila, are home to the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making them prime spots for snorkeling and diving.
- Visit the Colonial City of Comayagua: A charming colonial city with historical landmarks, Comayagua is home to beautiful churches, plazas, and cobblestone streets.
- Tour the Lancetilla Botanical Garden: One of the largest botanical gardens in the world, Lancetilla offers a chance to explore tropical plants, rare orchids, and diverse bird species.
- Visit the Río Cangrejal for Adventure Activities: Known for white-water rafting and scenic hikes, Río Cangrejal is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
- Discover the Garífuna Culture in Tela: The Garífuna people are an Afro-Indigenous group with a rich culture. In Tela, you can learn about their music, food, and traditions.
- Relax at the Hot Springs in Santa Rosa de Copán: These therapeutic hot springs in the western part of the country are a great way to unwind and enjoy the surrounding nature.
- Explore the Utila Whale Shark Experience: Utila is one of the top places in the world to swim with whale sharks. Whether you’re diving or snorkeling, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.