Risk level

Safety and security

Borders areas

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence.

If you’re travelling by land to neighbouring countries:

• use official border crossings only
• consider crossing borders in the morning as they sometimes close unexpectedly early
• avoid anyone suggesting that they can obtain your documents quicker or cheaper on your behalf
• keep the receipt of payment of the border fee until you leave the country

Guatemala

Criminal groups are especially active on the coast between the Guatemalan border and Puerto Cortés. Criminal activities include:

• theft
• drug trafficking
• human trafficking
• kidnapping

There has also been an increased number of migrants leaving Honduras through Guatemala, particularly at the border crossing in Agua Caliente. This movement results in periodic closures.

The El Florido border crossing in the town of Copán is also closed daily from 9 pm to 6 am.

Nicaragua

There has also been an increased number of migrants leaving Nicaragua through Honduras, particularly at the border crossings in Las Manos and Trojes.

Expect possible delays at borders.

Department of Cortés

Street gangs and criminal groups are very active in the Cortés municipalities of:

• San Pedro Sula
• Choloma
• La Lima

The number of murder and violent crime is higher in these areas.

Departments of Colón, Gracias a Dios, Olancho and Yoro

Drugs smuggling and violence pose security threats in the northern departments of:

• Colón
• Gracias a Dios
• Olancho
• Yoro

Roadblocks and violent incidents related to land disputes in Colón, mostly in the Aguán valley and in the north coast area near Trujillo, have occurred.

The department of Gracias a Dios is a remote area where law enforcement and access to government services are very limited. Levels of criminal activity are high.

La Ceiba

Violent crime is high in the coastal city of La Ceiba. This includes murders and armed robberies.

Although tourists are not the primary target of criminals, you could be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

If you consider travelling to La Ceiba:

• use reputable tour operators only
• choose accommodation with good security measures
• avoid outings outside the resort

Bay Islands

The Bay Islands are generally safe.  Violent crime is lower, but petty crime sometimes occurs.

Some foreigners have been assaulted on beaches, mainly at night. Home burglaries have also occurred, sometimes in rental accommodations.

While in the Bay Islands:

• avoid Coxen hole, Los Fuertes and Suampo neighbourhoods after dark
• avoid isolated beaches and areas
• stay in well-lit areas
• choose accommodation with good security measures
• make sure you lock windows and doors at night and when you are away

If you’re docking in Roatán and getting off the cruise ship, you should consider booking a tour or a sightseeing trip through a reputable company to avoid becoming the victim of a scam.

Crime

Violent crime

Although the overall situation has slightly improved since 2022, violent crime remains a concern throughout Honduras. The country retains one of the highest homicide rates in the world.

Drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent in certain neighbourhoods. Violent incidents are frequent, including:

• murders
• armed robberies
• kidnappings
• extortions
• home invasions
• sexual assaults

These crimes are carried out by criminals acting individually or as a group.

Many Hondurans are armed. Guns and other weapons, such as machetes and knives, are frequently used. Incidents of armed robbery occur mainly on urban streets during the day and on intercity buses at night. 

The Government of Honduras lacks sufficient resources to properly respond to, investigate and prosecute cases. Infiltration within the security forces by local gangs weaken law enforcement even further. Criminals linked to organized crime often operate with a high degree of impunity throughout Honduras.

• Remain aware of your surroundings at all times
• Maintain your cellphone charged
• Avoid travelling after dark
• Avoid walking alone
• Keep a low profile
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• don’t resist if you’re threatened, hand over your cash and valuables immediately

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Thefts commonly occur in: 

• popular tourist areas
• bus terminals and airports
• shopping malls and hotel lobbies
• restaurants, including patios

To avoid becoming a victim:

• be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you
• avoid accepting rides or invitations from strangers
• avoid hitchhiking
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secured at all times
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• avoid showing signs of affluence

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations take place regularly. In Tegucigalpa, demonstrations may occur:

• at the National Congress and Central Park
• at the National Autonomous University of Honduras
• at the United States Embassy
• at the Centro Civico
• at the Presidential Palace
• at the Hospital Escuela
• on Suyapa and Centroamerica boulevards
• on La Paz and Los Próceres avenues
• along the Peripheral Ring Road

In San Pedro Sula, protesters usually gather at the Monumento a la Madre.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Honduran law prohibits political activities by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or activities may result in you being detained or deported.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags to warn of unsafe conditions.

• Only undertake scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
• Don’t swim alone alone or outside marked areas
• Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Monitor weather warnings
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking, diving, mountain biking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in during summer.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your expedition companions
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Accidents causing fatalities are common. The number of traffic accidents involving tourists has also increased.

Road conditions

Many roads are poorly delineated due to regular flooding. Driving can be dangerous due to:

• roaming livestock and wildlife
• poorly maintained roads and bridges
• unpaved roads
• inadequate lighting
• lack of signage
• lack of guardrails
• winding mountain roads
• overloaded or poorly maintained vehicles
• slow-moving or heavy traffic, especially in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa

If you’re travelling by land, use caution between:

• El Progreso and La Ceiba
• Chamelecón and Copán via Cofradía
• Copán and Gracias Lempira
• Limones to La Unión

Between Tegucigalpa to Trujillo, you should use the RN39 and transit via Gualaco, San Esteban and Bonito Oriental rather than the RN41 via Salamá et Sabá.

Road safety

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds. They may be aggressive and reckless.

If you drive in Honduras:

• always drive defensively
• maintain a heightened awareness along all routes
• plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit a rural area
• avoid road travel at night
• keep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times
• avoid picking up hitchhikers
• carry a cell phone and a charger
• avoid renting cars and motorcycles from operators who don’t provide insurance
• ensure that helmets meet international safety standards

Police officer impersonation

Gang members and criminals sometimes disguise themselves as police officers. At legitimate police checkpoints, you should see:

• a police vehicle
• green cones
• at least five police officers

If you have any doubts, you may contact the Honduran Transit Authority by dialing 911 to confirm the location of the roadblocks and the identity of the individuals stopping you before rolling down your window or opening your door.

Sometimes, thieves also pose as victims of road accidents.

• Don’t stop to help a person at the side of the road
• Report any suspicious incidents at the next police checkpoint

Public transportation

Public transportation in Honduras is unsafe and unreliable.

Buses

Most urban public buses are poorly maintained. Drivers are reckless. Accidents are common.

Incidents of armed robbery are frequent on public buses. Incidents of arson have also occurred.   

• Avoid intercity public transportation
• Use only companies that offer non-stop service from your place of departure to your destination

Taxis

Some taxis are an acceptable option for transportation.

When travelling to the airport, you may pre-arrange your pickup with your hotel prior to your departure. Authorized airport taxis drivers wear easily identifiable ID badges.

• Use a reliable taxi company recommended by your hotel
• Don’t use white street taxis
• Never board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis in the street
• Never use shared taxis
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Note driver’s name and plate number
• Negotiate the fare in advance
• Make sure you have small bills as taxi drivers often don’t make change

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Honduran authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Student permit: required

Student permit

If you intend to study in Honduras, you must obtain a student permit which can be obtained from the immigration authorities once you arrive in the country.

National Institute of Migration – Government of Honduras

Customs declaration form

You must complete the Government of Honduras' customs declaration form prior to entering or leaving the country.

After completing the online form, you must present the QR code to the customs authorities, either on paper or electronically.

Customs declaration form – Government of Honduras

Entry stamp

Immigration authorities will stamp your passport upon arrival and write down the number of days you are allowed in the country. The 90-day period is not guaranteed, and the decision is at their discretion.

You may face a fine and possible delays if you fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Honduras.

• Make sure your passport has been stamped upon arrival
• Take good note of the maximum length of your approved stay

Central America-4 Border Control Agreement

Under the terms of the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement (CA-4), Canadian tourists may travel freely within any of the following CA-4 countries:

• El Salvador
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Nicaragua

You can travel between these countries for up to 90 days without having to undergo entry and exit formalities at border immigration checkpoints.

You must still check in at immigration counters when you enter or exit these checkpoints.

The 90-day period begins at the first point of entry to any of the CA-4 countries. You will be fined if you exceed the 90-day limit.

Entering by land

If you plan to enter by land, you need to pay 3 USD or the equivalent in lempiras.

Stay extension

You can apply for extensions of up to 30 days at a time, at the discretion of the immigration authorities. You must request this extension and pay the required fee at the Honduran immigration office before your first 90-day limit expires.

National Institute of Migration – Government of Honduras

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof that you have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay

Children and travel

The age of majority in Honduras is 21. The country has strict requirements for the entry and exit of minors.

A minor must show a written and notarized authorization to travel:

• signed by both parents if travelling alone
• signed by the non-travelling parent if travelling with one parent only

The written authorization must be in Spanish and authenticated by the Honduran authorities prior to arrival.

This is also enforced if the minor has a residential or citizenship tie to Honduras inherited from one of the parents, even if the tie has not been legally registered.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Public medical services and facilities remain below Canadian standards. Medical facilities are understaffed and underfunded. They lack medical supplies and adequately trained professionals.

You should use private health care where possible. There are some private clinics and hospitals in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa as well as in tourist areas such as the Bay Islands. However, they are often limited and services are expensive.

Doctors typically require upfront payment in cash. They may only speak Spanish.

Emergency services may not be able to access areas outside of major cities. Emergency medical facilities are also very limited on the Bay Islands. Major medical procedures and surgeries may require medical evacuation to a major centre.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medication

Some prescription medication may not be available in Honduras.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Honduras are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Honduras to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Honduran authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences or heavy fines.

Honduras is used as a drug trafficking hub between South and North America.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Don’t transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases
• Never exchange money for strangers, as this is a common request from money launderers

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Exports

Honduran law prohibits the export of:

• firearms
• antiques and artifacts from pre-colonial civilizations
• some birds, feathers, flora and fauna

Investments

Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

Many tourists have reported complications during real estate transactions in Honduras.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Honduras:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Honduras before making commitments
• choose your own Honduran lawyer specializing in real estate
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller
• visit the property in person before purchasing
• carefully review the sales contract as it may contain irregularities
• confirm the name of the last owner and verify that the property is free of any mortgage or taxes from the local property registry (Instituto de la propiedad)
• confirm that there are no heritage or land ownership disputes

Political activities

It’s illegal for foreigners to participate in local political activities, rallies or public demonstrations in Honduras.

Political involvement may result in your deportation or expulsion.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Honduras.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Honduras, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Honduran law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, same-sex couples are not legally recognized.

LGBTQ2 persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Honduras.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Honduras, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Honduran court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Honduras to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

You may drive in Honduras with your valid Canadian driver license for up to 3 months.

At all times when driving, you must carry:

• your driver’s license
• your passport
• the vehicle’s registration

In the event of a car accident:

• remain at the scene
• don’t move your vehicle until the authorities arrive

• call 911 to report the accident and request Transit Police

Failure to remain at the site may be considered an admission of guilt under Honduran law. However, some accidents may attract a crowd that could turn hostile. If you feel unsafe:

• ensure your windows and doors are locked
• drive to the nearest police station or a secure location
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

If you are involved in a road accident causing injuries, you may be temporarily detained, regardless of culpability. 

International Driving Permit

Money

The currency in Honduras is the lempira (HNL).

You cannot exchange Canadian dollars in Honduras. You can easily exchange U.S. dollars.

ATMs are available in urban areas but not all foreign cards work at all ATMs or points of service. They may be rare in rural areas.

A valid passport is required for all financial transactions.

Natural disasters and climate

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from May to November. It can lead to severe flooding.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Wildfires

Wildfires are common between December and April.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Honduras is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Tsunami warnings may be issued after a strong earthquake. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Useful links

• COPECO – Honduran disaster relief agency (in Spanish)
• Earthquakes – What to Do?
• Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System