Honduras Traveler Essentials

Capital
Tegucigalpa
Currency
Honduran Lempira (HNL L)
Best time to visit
The dry season from February to May brings excellent diving visibility and reliable weather across the islands and mainland.

Visa requirements

Citizens of the US, EU, Canada, and many other countries enter visa-free for up to 90 days under the CA-4 agreement.

Getting around

Domestic flights and ferries link the Bay Islands to the mainland, where buses and rental cars connect Copán and other inland sites.

Safety

Crime rates are high in cities like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, so most tourists fly directly to the safer Bay Islands. Avoid displaying valuables, skip night travel, and use trusted transport and guides.

Tipping customs

Tipping 10% is customary at restaurants, and divemasters and boat crews appreciate gratuities for good service.

Travel tips

Carry lempiras for everyday purchases, though US dollars are accepted on the Bay Islands. ATMs can be unreliable outside cities, so plan cash withdrawals ahead. Dive certifications here are among the cheapest in the world.

Practical guides