Despite being the second largest and second most populated country in Central America, the remarkable nation of Honduras is often overlooked by tourists. Those who do visit tend to take a whirlwind tour of the impressive Mayan ruins at Copán or the Bay Islands, which boasts some exquisite beaches and the world’s second-largest coral reef where snorkeling and diving are exceptional by any standard. However, this astonishingly diverse country has plenty to offer the discerning traveler willing to spend time discovering its hidden treasures. These include the quaint colonial villages of Gracias, Comayagua, the spectacularly scenic rain forests of the Mosquito Coast, which host a number of fascinating indigenous tribes, the boisterous nightlife and numerous skillfully made handicrafts of San Pedro Sula. Whether you seek wild adventure sports, exotic culinary delights or merely a quiet beach lined with palm trees to hang your hammock, Honduras will undoubtedly satisfy your every need.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Honduran Lempira
Symbol: L
ISO code: HNL
Subunit: Centavo
Banknotes: L1, L2, L5, L10, L20, L50, L100, L200, L500
Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 centavos, L1, L2, L5, L10
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Weekends: Limited hours
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Avianca Honduras, CM Airlines
International Airports: Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (San Pedro Sula), Toncontín International Airport (Tegucigalpa)
Domestic Airports: Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (Roatán), Golosón International Airport (La Ceiba)
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Honduran cuisine is a blend of indigenous Lenca, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. Common dishes include baleadas (wheat flour tortillas with beans and other fillings), carne asada (grilled meat), and plátanosfritos (fried plantains). Notable local drinks include horchata (a rice-based beverage), tamarind juice, and Honduran coffee.
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region
Average temperature: 25°C
Summer:
Average highs: 32°C
Average lows: 23°C
Winter:
Average highs: 28°C
Average lows: 19°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Honduras is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is generally sunny and dry.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type A, Type B
Voltage (V): 110V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
