Honduras

Honduras: general info for travelers

Honduras is a country located in Central America, bordered by Guatemala to the west, El Salvador to the south, Nicaragua to the east, and the Caribbean Sea to the north. It has a diverse terrain that includes mountains, forests, coral reefs, and beaches. The official language is Spanish and the population is approximately 9 million people. Honduras is known for its rich culture, pre-Columbian artifacts, and diverse cuisine. It is also a popular destination for ecotourism, adventure tourism, and beach vacations. However, the country has also faced political instability, crime, and poverty in recent years, so visitors should take necessary precautions and check travel advisories before visiting.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Honduras, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Honduras: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Honduras: 1. Roatán: Roatán is an island in the Caribbean Sea known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Besides enjoying water sports, visitors can also explore the local culture and cuisine.
2. Copán: Copán is an ancient Mayan city in western Honduras that dates back to the 5th century. Visitors can see impressive ruins and learn about the Mayan civilization by exploring the temples, plazas, and stellae.
3. La Ceiba: La Ceiba is a coastal city known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and annual carnival celebrations. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Pico Bonito National Park or take a ferry to the Bay Islands.
4. Tegucigalpa: Tegucigalpa is the capital of Honduras and is located in a picturesque mountain valley. Visitors can explore the historic center, visit the National Art Gallery, and learn about the country's history at the National Museum of Anthropology and History.
5. Gracias: Gracias is a colonial town in the western highlands of Honduras with well-preserved architecture from the Spanish colonial era. Visitors can explore the historic churches, visit the Celaque National Park, and hike up to the La Campa fortress for panoramic views of the region.
6. Utila: Utila is one of the Bay Islands of Honduras and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent diving opportunities. Visitors can also go snorkeling, fishing, or just relax on the beach and take in the natural beauty of the island. Overall, Honduras has a lot to offer visitors in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty.
There is more to see and do in Honduras: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Honduras: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Honduras, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Honduras has a tropical climate with a distinct dry and rainy season. The dry season runs from December to April, while the rainy season is from May to November. Temperatures are generally warm throughout the year, with highs averaging around 30°C.
The best time to visit Honduras depends on what you plan to do during your trip. If you're interested in outdoor activities like hiking or spending time on the beach, then the dry season is generally the ideal time to visit as there will be less rain. If you're more interested in cultural or historical sightseeing, the wet season can also be a great time to visit as there are fewer tourists and the landscape is lush and green.

Honduras: activities and what to do

Honduras offers a wide range of activities and sports for tourists to enjoy. Here are some popular ones: 1. Scuba diving and snorkeling: Honduras has one of the world's most famous dive sites, the Bay Islands. Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja are the most popular and offer a variety of dive sites for all skill levels.
2. White-water rafting: Honduras has some of Central America's most thrilling rivers for white-water rafting. Rio Cangrejal, near La Ceiba, is one of the best.
3. Hiking: Honduras has several natural parks and reserves with great hiking trails. Cusuco National Park, Pico Bonito National Park, and Copan Ruins are some examples.
4. Bird-watching: Honduras is home to over 700 bird species and has several bird-watching hotspots like La Tigra National Park, Cusuco National Park, and the Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve.
5. Surfing: The Bay Islands and Tela offer some good surf spots for experienced surfers.
6. Zip-lining: Several eco-parks offer zip-lining through the jungle or over waterfalls.
7. Fishing: Honduras has excellent sportfishing opportunities. The Bay Islands are a prime location for deep-sea fishing.
8. Culture and history: Honduras has many historical sites and museums to explore, such as the Mayan ruins of Copan, Museum of Anthropology and History, and the Garifuna Museum.
Overall, Honduras has plenty of activities and sports to offer tourists of all interests and ages.

Honduras: few words on history and culture

Honduras has a rich history and culture that dates back to pre-Columbian times. The indigenous peoples who inhabited the region before the arrival of the Spanish explored pottery, weaving, and agriculture. The Spanish colonization of Honduras began in the early 1500s and had a significant impact on the country's culture, language, and religion.
Today, Honduras is a melting pot of various influences, with Mayan, African, and Spanish cultures having a prominent role in shaping the country's traditions, customs and artistic expression. Honduras boasts a diverse range of traditional cuisine, music, dance, and festivals that play an essential role in its cultural heritage.
Popular cultural events in Honduras include Carnival, which takes place in February, and the Semana Santa (Holy Week), which is celebrated in April, with elaborate processions and religious events. Additionally, Honduras boasts of traditional dances, such as punta and salsa, and handicrafts such as pottery, weaving, and wood-carving.
Honduras also has a rich history of liberation movements and struggles for social justice, with heroes such as Lempira, a Lenca indigenous leader who resisted Spanish invaders, and Francisco Morazán, a key figure in Central America's independence from Spanish rule. Today, Honduras is still grappling with economic and social challenges and is working towards building a better future for its people.

Honduras: how to move around on holiday

There are a few options for getting to and around Honduras: 1. Airports: The main international airport in Honduras is Toncontín International Airport (TGU) in Tegucigalpa. You can also fly into Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (SAP) in San Pedro Sula.
2. Buses: Buses are a popular and affordable option for getting around Honduras. There are several bus companies that operate throughout the country.
3. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most cities and towns. Make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in.
4. Car Rental: Renting a car is a good option for those who prefer more independence and flexibility in their travel plans. However, be aware that driving in Honduras can be challenging due to the quality of roads and driving habits of locals.
No matter what mode of transport you choose, it's important to always take necessary safety precautions while traveling in Honduras. To hire a car to visit Honduras, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Honduras: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Honduras with a full stomach:D
Honduran cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, Spanish and African influences. Some of the main typical foods of Honduras and their descriptions are: 1. Baleadas - a flour tortilla filled with mashed fried red beans, grated cheese and cream.
2. Carne asada - grilled beef served with rice, beans, tortillas and pickled vegetables.
3. Sopa de Caracol - a soup made with sea snail, coconut milk, yucca, plantain, onion, garlic, bell peppers and tomatoes.
4. Pupusas - a thick corn tortilla stuffed with cheese, beans, pork or chicken.
5. Plátanos fritos - fried plantains, served as a side dish or as a snack.
6. Tamales - made with corn dough, stuffed with cooked pork, chicken or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled.
7. Enchiladas Hondureñas - unlike traditional enchiladas, honduran enchiladas are made with a fried tortilla topped with ground beef, lettuce, tomato, cheese and onion.
These are just a few examples of the diverse and delicious cuisine Honduras has to offer!

Honduras: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to other countries in Central America, Honduras can be considered slightly more expensive for tourists, but it is still relatively affordable. The prices of accommodation, transportation, and food vary depending on the region you are visiting. The Bay Islands, for example, can be more expensive due to their popularity among tourists, while other areas, such as the north coast, can be more affordable. It's always a good idea to do research and compare prices before planning your trip to Honduras.

Honduras: where to find accodation

There are many options for finding accommodation in Honduras, including: 1. Online travel agencies such as Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb - they offer a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, resorts, and vacation rentals.
2. Local accommodation booking sites - these sites are typically run by local businesses or individuals and can offer more authentic and unique accommodation experiences. Some examples include Honduras.com, TravelHonduras.net, and Roatan.com.
3. Local tourist offices - in larger cities and popular tourist destinations, the local tourist office can provide information on available accommodation options.
4. Word of mouth - asking for recommendations from locals or other travelers can be a great way to find hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path accommodations.
It's always a good idea to read reviews and research the location and safety of the area before booking any accommodation.
You can check hotel prices in Honduras here:
Booking.com

Honduras: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Honduras Institute of Tourism, Honduras received approximately 2.5 million tourists in 2019. The country has seen a steady increase in tourism over the past few years.
There are definitely periods that are more crowded than others. Peak tourist season in Honduras generally runs from December to April when the weather is dry and mild. This is especially true for popular tourist destinations like the Bay Islands and the Copan Ruins. Holidays, festivals, and special events can also attract larger crowds. If you're looking to avoid crowds, it may be best to plan your trip outside of these high season periods.
Honduras is generally considered to have a high crime rate and it is not as safe as some other countries in the region. Tourists should exercise caution in Honduras and stay alert to their surroundings.
There are some places in Honduras that are more dangerous than others and should be avoided. These include Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and La Ceiba. These cities have high crime rates and are known for being unsafe for tourists.
However, there are still many safe and beautiful places to visit in Honduras. Some of the safest places to visit include the Bay Islands (Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja), Copan Ruinas, and the Mosquito Coast. These areas are known to be tourist-friendly and have lower crime rates than other parts of Honduras. Nonetheless, it is always important to stay alert and take precautions when traveling in any foreign country.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Honduras on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Honduras: events for tourists

There are several interesting events for tourists in Honduras. Here are some of the most notable ones: 1. Feria Juniana: This festival takes place in San Pedro Sula in June and includes music, dancing, and delicious food.
2. Semana Santa: This is the Holy Week in Honduras and is celebrated with processions, rituals, and masses throughout the country.
3. The Garifuna Festival: This festival celebrates the UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage of the Garifuna people in Honduras and includes music, food, and cultural activities.
4. La Ceiba Carnival: This carnival in late May is one of the biggest celebrations in Honduras and is known for its colorful parades and street parties.
5. Copán Maya Ruins Light & Sound Show: This is a spectacle held every day at the Copán Maya Ruins. 6. Coffee and Chocolate Festival: An event filled with fun activities including tastings, live music, contests, as well as learning how to pick and roast coffee and chocolate. These events are just a sample of the many exciting events that Honduras has to offer, and there is undoubtedly something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse country.

Honduras: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Honduras, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a suggested itinerary for two weeks in Honduras: Day 1-3: Arrive in Tegucigalpa and explore the city, taking in its colonial architecture, museums, and markets.
Day 4-5: Visit the charming town of Comayagua and see its beautiful cathedral, historic clock tower, and colonial-era architecture.
Day 6-7: Stay at Lake Yojoa, the largest lake in Honduras, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Take a hike in Parque Nacional Cerro Azul Meambar or visit the Pulhapanzak Waterfall.
Day 8-9: Head to Copan Ruinas, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to impressive Mayan ruins. Take a guided tour of the site, and then explore the charming town of Copan Ruinas with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.
Day 10-11: Travel to the Bay Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Honduras known for their stunning coral reefs and marine life. Snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal clear waters at Roatan or Utila.
Day 12-13: Visit La Ceiba, a bustling coastal city that offers a variety of outdoor activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, and hiking.
Day 14: Return to Tegucigalpa and depart Honduras.
Of course, this itinerary can be customized based on specific interests and preferences, but it provides a solid overview of the diverse and fascinating attractions that Honduras has to offer.

Honduras: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Honduras described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bonito Oriental is a small town located in the eastern part of Honduras. It is part of the department of Francisco Morazán and has a population of around 12,000 people. Bonito Oriental is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bonito Oriental
- Choluteca is a city located in southern Honduras, near the border with Nicaragua. It is the capital of the Choluteca department and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The region's econo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Choluteca
- Comayagua is a city located in the central part of Honduras, approximately 87 kilometers northwest of the country's capital, Tegucigalpa. It is known for its colonial-era architecture, including the C... CONTINUE here for a trip to Comayagua
- Copán Ruinas is a small picturesque town located in the western part of Honduras, near the Guatemala border. It is famous for its awe-inspiring archaeological site, Copán, which is a UNESCO World Heri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Copán Ruinas
- Corquín is a small town located in the western part of Honduras, in the department of Copán. It has a population of approximately 10,000 people and is known for its charming colonial architecture and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Corquín
- Danlí is a city located in the southern part of Honduras, about 50 miles east of the capital city of Tegucigalpa. It is the capital of the department of El Paraíso and has a population of around 110,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Danlí
- El Negrito is a municipality in the northwest part of Honduras, located in the department of Yoro. It has a population of approximately 40,000 people, and its economy depends mainly on agriculture and... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Negrito
- El Paraíso is a department in Honduras located in the southern region of the country. It is known for its beautiful mountains, lush forests, and fertile valleys, with agriculture being its main econom... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Paraíso
- El Progreso is a city located in the north-central region of Honduras, known for its vibrant nightlife and lively cultural scene. It is the capital of the Yoro Department and is situated in a fertile ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Progreso
- El Triunfo is a small town located in the southern region of Honduras, near the border with Nicaragua. It is part of the department of Choluteca and has a population of around 10,000 people. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Triunfo
- Gracias is a city located in the Honduran department of Lempira. It is known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. Gracias is situated in a valley surrounded by beau... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gracias
- Guanaja is an island located in the western Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Honduras. It is the easternmost of Honduras' Bay Islands and is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs and pristine fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Guanaja
- Intibucá is a department located in western Honduras, bordered by the departments of Lempira and La Paz to the north, Comayagua to the east, and El Paraíso and Choluteca to the south. Its capital is t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Intibucá
- Juticalpa is a city located in the eastern part of Honduras, in the department of Olancho. It is the largest city in the department and serves as its capital. The city has a population of around 100,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Juticalpa
- La Ceiba is a coastal city located in northern Honduras, situated between the rainforest-covered mountains and the Caribbean Sea. It is accessible by air, sea, and land and is a popular destination fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Ceiba
- La Entrada is a town located in the western part of Honduras, in the department of Copán. It is situated on the Pan-American Highway, approximately 35 miles north of San Pedro Sula. This is a predomin... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Entrada
- La Esperanza is a town and municipality located in the department of Intibucá, in western Honduras. It is situated at an altitude of 1,920 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest towns in... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Esperanza
- La Masica is a municipality in the department of Atlántida, Honduras. It is located in the northern part of the country, approximately 40 kilometers east of the city of La Ceiba. The area is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Masica
- La Paz is a department (region) in central Honduras and also the name of its capital city. The department covers an area of approximately 2,534 square kilometers and has a population of around 200,000... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Paz
- Marcala is a small town located in the department of La Paz in western Honduras. It is known for its coffee production, being one of the top producers in the country. The town has a pleasant climate a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marcala
- Olanchito is a town located in the eastern part of Honduras, in the department of Yoro. It is situated in a lush, tropical area and surrounded by several nearby rivers and mountains. Olanchito is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Olanchito
- Omoa is a small municipality located on the Caribbean coast of Honduras, in the department of Cortes. It is known for its historic Spanish fortress, the Fortaleza de San Fernando, which was built in t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Omoa
- Potrerillos is a small rural village located in the northwest of Honduras, near the city of San Pedro Sula. It is known for its beautiful scenic views of the mountains and valleys, as well as its outd... CONTINUE here for a trip to Potrerillos
- Puerto Cortés is a city located in the northwestern part of Honduras. It is the largest seaport in the country and serves as the main gateway for the country's imports and exports. The city has a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Cortés
- Roatán is a beautiful island located off the coast of Honduras in Central America. It is the largest of the Bay Islands and is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral r... CONTINUE here for a trip to Roatán
- San Esteban is a small town located in the department of Olancho, in eastern Honduras. It has a population of approximately 4,000 people and is known for its agricultural production of coffee, sugar, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Esteban
- San Lorenzo is a small town located on the southern coast of Honduras, near the border with Nicaragua. It's known for its beautiful beaches, such as Playa Grande and Punta Sal, which are popular with ... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Lorenzo
- San Pedro Sula is a city located in the northwest region of Honduras. It is the second-largest city in the country, with a population of around 1 million people in its urban area. The city is an indus... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Pedro Sula
- Santa Bárbara is a department located in the western region of Honduras. It is known for its stunning natural parks, picturesque landscapes, and diverse fauna and flora. The department's capital city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Bárbara
- Santa Lucía is a small colonial town located in the Francisco Morazán department of Honduras. It is situated on the southern slopes of the Montecillos mountain range and is known for its beautiful Spa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Lucía
- Santa Rosa de Copán is a city located in the western region of Honduras. It is considered one of the most important cities in the country due to its cultural and historical significance. The city has ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Rosa de Copán
- Siguatepeque is a city located in the central region of Honduras, in the department of Comayagua. It has a population of around 80,000 people and is known for being an important commercial and agricul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Siguatepeque
- Tegucigalpa is the capital city of Honduras, located in the southern part of the country. It is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and is the country's political and economic center. The cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tegucigalpa
- Tela is a coastal town located in the north-central region of Honduras, on the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, and historical landmarks. The town is surroun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tela
- Sure, Tocoa is a city located in the Colon department of Honduras. It is situated in the northern part of the country and is known for its lush vegetation, beautiful rivers, and natural attractions. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tocoa
- Trujillo is a city located on the Caribbean coast of Honduras, known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks and natural attractions. It was one of the first cities founded in the mainland of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trujillo
- Utila is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Honduras. It is known for its stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for scuba diving and snorke... CONTINUE here for a trip to Utila
- Valle de Ángeles is a small town located in the Francisco Morazán department of Honduras. It is a popular tourist destination known for its colonial architecture, picturesque streets, and handicraft m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valle de Ángeles


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