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Honduras actually has one of the highest murder rates in the world, and unfortunately, travelers and citizens alike suffer. Many of the issues that pin Honduras down include drug trafficking, corruption, gangs, violent crime, and incredibly inhumane levels of poverty. As a result, while Honduras might seem like an incredible international destination for its many attractions, it’s important to add some informed caution to your travel plans.
If you visit one of the safe areas within Honduras and employ a reasonable degree of caution, you’ll quickly find plenty of reasons to love this tropical paradise.
Is Honduras Safe?
Unfortunately, Honduras is quite dangerous. As mentioned before, many of the issues that weigh on this beautiful country include violent crime, drug trafficking, corruption in local authorities and government, and gangs. Citizens also suffer from an incredibly high level of poverty, which only serves to contribute to the country’s long suffering.
Despite these issues, there are areas of Honduras that are safer to visit than others. For example, the Bay Islands are much more popular with visitors due to the mainland, and many people are just fine even visiting with their families. The way you travel through Honduras can also play a factor in how safe your trip is — most people visit Honduras on a cruise ship, and it’s safe to say that these guided tours are much less risky than exploring remote areas on your own.
Statistically speaking, around 2 million people visit Honduras each year. And the government is actually seeking to increase the amount of people who visit each year, which means investing in infrastructure to keep tourists safe. Is Honduras safe? Many tourist destinations are. The most popular destinations with visitors include Roatan and the other Bay Islands, and in terms of broad travel advice that is where we would advise most visitors to go, too.
It’s important to note that Honduras is still one of the murder capitals of the world, and that that conditions within the country can play a role in whether things might turn violent. The biggest catalyst for violent crime within Honduras is the presence of two gangs: Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13). Aside from making it unsafe for travel, these gangs steal from and violently oppress citizens.
While it isn’t by any means perfectly safe yet, Honduras has been shown to be getting safer with each year. While Honduras ranked as the country with the highest homicide rate in the world in 2011, with 93.2 people murdered each year per 100,000 citizens, the number actually plummeted to only 42.8 people per 100,000 citizens in 2017. This was a result of intensive police reform enacted by the Honduras government, and luckily, it has made the country much more welcoming to citizens and travelers alike.
What Are The Safest Cities In Honduras? Is Honduras Safe?
If you’re looking for safety and security during your next trip to the Honduras, you’re not alone. While many are tempted to visit this incredible tropical paradise, they’re often deterred by the violent crime and general risk of visiting. Fortunately, since the recent police department reform, heightened effort by local authorities, and the dedicated political activities of Honduran citizens, this country has become significantly safer.
And it’s important to note, not all cities are created equal. While it’s still a risk to visit certain areas, many of the most touristy parts of Honduras — particularly Roatan, Utila, and the Bay Islands in general — are quite safe to visit as long as you behave mindfully and follow the advice of local authorities. It’s also worth using the assistance and services of the Honduran U.S. Embassy as needed. Is Honduras safe? It is much safer with the right help and guidance.
While it’s easy to wonder, “is Honduras safe?”, a better question is asking what areas are safe. When you visit these beautiful areas and exercise the right caution, you’ll feel right at home in this tropical paradise.
Is Honduras Safe In Roatan?
Of all the Bay Islands, Roatan is the largest in size and also the most well-developed. Whether your search is for a scuba diving paradise or a pristine beach to sunbathe on, Roatan also has plenty to offer tourists looking for a tropical paradise. There are several villages you can visit in Roatan, each with distinct character: West Bay, West End, Sandy Bay, Coxen Hole, French Harbor, Punta Gorda, Oak Ridge, Camp Bay, and Port Royal.
West Bay is widely considered to have the best stretch of beach on the island, with powdery white sand and the reef close nearby — particularly if you head towards Tabyana beach. There are plenty of delicious restaurants and comfortable resorts to stay at. Is Honduras safe? There’s no safer place to be than a beach like West Bay.
West End is also a great option if you’re prioritizing safety but want to have some fun, too. Whether you’re interested in live music or bars, there’s plenty to do here. There are also many dive shops that offer lessons in this area!
Sandy Bay is primarily residential, but has some highlights such as the Anthony’s Key Resort that offers swimming with dolphins and the Roatan Backpackers’ Hotel. This is also a good place to go if you’re interested in volunteering to help local Hondurans. Is Honduras safe in residential areas? In a place like Roatan, yes, but you can always work with a volunteering organization if you want additional guidance.
Coxen Hole offers most of the necessities, like restaurants and a variety of stores, but you’re better off going to other neighborhoods if you’re looking for anything particularly interesting.
French Harbor is around the midpoint of the island, and has a few beach resorts and resort communities as well as bars and restaurants. This quarter was originally popular only with locals and expats, but since tourism in Roatan has become so popular, travelers have gradually become aware of all the excitement the underrated French Harbor has to offer.
Punta Gorda is a fishing community with some fascinating sights to see. Some of the highlights include the Garifuna Cultural Center and the Tortuga Dive Center. There’s plenty of good restaurants in the neighborhood, too.
Oakridge isn’t particularly interesting for tourists, but there are some quality resorts in the area as well as an incredible beach. Is Honduras safe in these areas? Absolutely. As mentioned before, most communities in Roatan are excellent — but if you’re worried, having a good command of the language or traveling with a group is always an asset.
Camp Bay has the largest natural beach in Roatan and on any of the surrounding islands, and has a few resorts and restaurants to attract tourists, too. While this area isn’t as lively as parts of Roatan like West End, you won’t regret stopping by the Camp Bay Beach.
Is Honduras safe in Roatan? Certainly! As with visiting any other foreign country, you should exercise caution and look natural. People do know how to spot lost tourists and take advantage of them. But if you’re decisive and take the same precautions as other travelers, you’ll find that this popular travel destination is a great place to go.
Is Honduras Safe in Roatan? Top 10 Destinations And Activities in Roatan
1. Carambola Gardens
With over 40 acres of natural jungle trails and exotic flowering plants, the Carambola Gardens are a can’t-miss destination. After navigating through the lush orchids and nut trees, you can climb to the summit and see the gorgeous Iguana Wall: a cliff where the breeding grounds of native iguana and parrot species are protected.
2. Anthony’s Key Resort Dolphin Encounters
Whether you’re going alone or with your family, you won’t regret visiting these gentle and intelligent mammals. The resort houses a pod of incredibly friendly Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, and you can choose between enjoying a 30-minute Dolphin Encounter or a 60-minute Dolphin Swim & Snorkel all at an affordable price. If you’re taking a longer vacation, Anthony’s Key Resort even offers a 6-day Dolphin Scuba Camp for kids between 5 and 14 years of age!
3. Roatan Garifuna History And Mangrove Tunnel Tour
If you’re interested in learning more about the culture and practices of Roatan’s native Garifuna people, you’ll love this guided tour. After visiting a sanctuary that houses exotic animals like sloths and monkeys to learn about the native wildlife, you can visit the Garifuna Culture Center and take a tour through the Oak Ridge fishing village to learn more about the modern cultural practices that Garifuna people take pride in.
4. Arch’s Iguana & Marine Park
If you or your kids are reptile fanatics, then Arch’s Iguana & Marine Park is one of the best places you can go. While the large lizards might initially be intimidating, you’ll come to love this incredible species as you feed and pet the majestic iguanas. There are a variety of other species available for viewing too, including scarlet macaws and tarpon fish. And if you have any questions, the park provides knowledgeable tour guides who will teach you everything you’d like to know!
5. The Pigeon And Jewel Cays
While you might find the beaches of Honduras crowded, there’s plenty of hidden destinations you can visit to get away from the crowds. One of the best open secrets of Honduras is the Cays. The two connected islands have around 400 inhabitants. As a result of the low population, the beaches are quiet and serene.
6. Roatan Institute For Marine Sciences (RIMS)
Located on the northwest coast of Roatan, the RIMS is dedicated to protecting the barrier reefs, mangroves, and broader tropical marine ecosystems that make Honduras so special. The institute offers several attractions for visitors, including the Roatan Museum and the Educational Center, and houses exhibits on the fish, invertebrates, coral reefs, birds, reptiles, and geology of the Bay Islands.
7. Mangrove Kayak Tour
It doesn’t have to be a splurge to take a tour out at sea. Affordably priced between $50 and $80 USD per person depending on the customized qualities of the tour, the Mangrove Kayak Tour takes travelers through the mangrove forest at Roatan and towards a cay overlooking the Port Royal National Park. Aside from giving visitors the opportunity to explore the serene sights they encounter, the tour also includes a delicious lunch package!
8. Roatan Marine Park
While the core focus of this organization is to conserve Roatan’s protected coastal and marine areas, they also provide a variety of workshops and educational programs that can add incredible value to your next vacation. Whether you’re interested in the Lionfish Workshop for your next dive or taking part in the RMP Coral Restoration Certification Course, a visit to the Roatan Marine Park can help you find ways to give back to the community!
9. Whites Beach
Surrounded with lush tropical underbrush and towering coconut palms, Whites Beach is easily one of the most relaxing and beautiful destinations in Honduras. Whether you’re drawn to the soft sand or the tranquil waters, this beach has something for everybody.
10. Roatan Butterfly Garden
After you’ve visited the sanctuaries housing incredible exotic animals like iguanas and macaws, you might lose sight of the small details. But despite their size, the butterflies of Honduras are born to make a colorful statement. The garden also offers encounters with animals like toucans, small monkeys, and yellow-naped Amazon parrots.
Is Honduras Safe In Utila?
While Utila might be the smallest of the three major islands, it offers just as much excitement. The island is small and easy to get around by waking, but many vendors also offer rentals for bicycles, motorbikes, and quads for varying prices. The beaches aren’t particularly notable compared to other Caribbean islands, but the variety of water activities offered makes it well worth visiting.
This island is considered one of the best places to go diving in the Caribbean, since they offer affordable diving trips and have one of the highest new diver certification rates in the world. The biodiversity is also incredible, as you can reliably sight colorful species of tropical fish, seahorses, and even whale sharks during your excursions into the ocean.
If you decide to explore on land, there’s plenty of spectacular attractions to be found! Whether you decide to hunt for the airplane crash site in Utila’s jungle or prefer to make your way towards Pumpkin Hill, you won’t soon get bored with this tropical paradise.
Compared to the mainland, Utila offers travellers an incredible level of safety. Rather than asking, is Honduras safe, it’s better to look at just how incredible Utila is. Compared to cities like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, the risk of crime like armed robbery is very low. Travellers also have good access to assistance from authorities, local police, and the embassy.
Many hotels and other stays also employ security guards and watchmen who monitor local crime and who are dedicated to protecting travellers. While it’s worth employing a high degree of caution with things like keeping your door locked, guarding your valuables, and paying attention to any travel advisory that the embassy in Honduras releases, you will find that Utila one of the best destinations in the country.
Is Honduras safe in Utila? When you exercise the right caution and utilize resources meant to keep travelers safe, it certainly is. The Bay Islands are commonly recommended to travelers for a reason — they’re incredible.
Is Honduras Safe In Utila? Top 10 Destinations And Activities In Utila
1. Scuba Diving
If you decide to visit Utila, you can’t let your trip to one of the most incredible scuba diving locations in the world go without giving the hobby a try yourself! Utila is a great place to take PADI or SSI classes, and once you’ve got all of the certifications you need, you’re ready to venture out for an epic encounter with marine life like dolphins and whale sharks.
2. Funkytown Library
If you’re looking to buy some books or just rent one to engage your mind during your trip, then the Funkytown Library has everything you could possibly need. Aside from the great deals on books, the fun atmosphere within the library makes this a great place to take kids!
3. Freediving
Unlike scuba diving, free diving involves holding your breath for the duration of your dive. With training, many freedivers can reach as far as 60 feet under the water with just one breath! If you’re looking for a peaceful and fun way to exercise your lungs, you’ll love taking a freedive.
4. Utila’s Incredible Nightlife
There’s no doubt about it: compared to the other islands, Utila easily has the best nightlife. This is particularly true during the busy tourist seasons, where you can find at least one bar open until 4 or 5 AM most nights. To find it, all you need to do is follow the music or ask around! But if you’re looking for some suggestions, Coco Locos and Bar in the Bush are some of the best places to dance. If you prefer to party with expats, then Skid Row might be your ideal destination. And finally, if you’re visiting with your girl friends, you can’t miss the ladies night (with free drinks for ladies!) held every Tuesday at La Pirata.
5. The Jade Seahorse
With eclectic art as far as the eye can see, the Jade Seahorse is a highlight for viewing if you’re interested in the works of independent artists. The artwork takes a mosaic focus and uses a variety of recycled materials, thereby keeping the island cleaner! And if you’re a fan of vegetarian and/or vegan food, you’ll love the meals they have to offer. The recipes are generally inspired by southeast Asian cuisine, and are served with generous portions. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, the best way to finish your visit to the Jade Seahorse is by grabbing a drink from the eccentric and awe-inspiring Treetanic bar nestled high up within the property.
6. Kayaking And Paddling
Whether you prefer paddleboarding or kayaking, Utila is a fantastic place to enjoy these outdoor activities. Depending on your preferences, many places offer temporary rental kayaks or even offer guided kayak tours. And if you’ve book accommodations associated with a dive shop, you may find that kayaks are included as a complementary amenity.
7. Foo King Wok
Whether you prefer sushi or one of their ever-changing menu items, Foo King Wok is a highlight of the island for their incredibly flavorful Asian fusion offerings.
8. Neptune’s Restaurant And Bar
Offering tantalizing favorites like jambalaya, plantain chips, and refreshing mojitos, the food at Neptune’s Restaurant and Bar is made to delight. The restaurant attracts a mixed crowds of tourists, locals, and expats, and has provided some of the best food in the area for over a decade.
9. Rio Coco Café
Breakfast with delicious coffee is lovely. There’s very few ways to make the experience even more incredible, but Rio Coco Café manages to deliver with the incredible view from the café. Best of all, the café offers options for everyone: whether you’re looking for a vegan oat milk latte or a classic Flat White, they advertise having gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options available.
10. Snorkeling
Whether you’re looking to do something a little different or need an accessible alternative to scuba diving, you’re in luck: Utila has plenty of businesses that offer everything you need to have a fun scuba diving trip. Any dive shop you can stay at in Utila offers free snorkeling gear with their accommodations, and if you happen to stay somewhere else, rentals are cheap. Most dive shops also offer boats that can take you to shallow dive sites perfect for snorkeling for a small fee.
Is Honduras Safe In La Paz?
If you’re still tempted to travel inland, then this region might suit your tastes — but to stay safe, it might be worth investing in a guided tour! If you like coffee, you’ll especially love the 5-Day Honduran Coffee Tour. The city of Marcala has an incredible culture and delicious variety of cuisine that you won’t regret exploring. Is Honduras safe? It certainly is when you visit the right places.
Whether you intend to stop by the Finca Los Catadores to learn about the growing and processing of Honduran coffee, or would rather learn through experiencing with a specialty coffee from the Oh! Cafe, this region never fails to fascinate. And while it might not be as safe as the Bay Islands, this region has been shown to be safer than average — with 21.73 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to the national level at 43.63.
Is Honduras safe in La Paz? While La Paz isn’t as safe as the Bay Islands, it’s an excellent place for travelers to consider visiting.
Is Honduras Safe In La Paz? Top 10 Destinations And Activities In La Paz
1. Cascada Le Estanzuela
No matter how many times you see them, waterfalls never cease to be an incredible and serene sight. Locals and travellers alike love the peaceful environment and fascinating views found at the Cascada Le Estanzuela, where you can watch the water cascade down the lush cliffside from a heightened vantage point.
2. Montecillo Biological Reserve
There’s no doubt that the nature found in Honduras is incredible. The country boasts some of the best biodiversity and tropical reserves in the world. If you’re looking for a great place to observe local flora and fauna, the Montecillo Biological Reserve offers an extremely natural and well-preserved place to explore.
3. Elena De Carias Park
The Elena de Carias Park boasts some of the most beautiful architecture that you can find in the area. Whether you prefer to sightsee at the beautiful church or the fascinating Acoustic Shell structure, you’ll find plenty to do in this walkable area.
4. Restaurante Toros Bar
After you’ve worn yourself out checking out the sights in the Elena de Carias Park, you’ll quickly find one of the best places to refresh yourself just a short distance away is the Restaurante Toros bar and grill. This restaurant primarily caters to locals, but offers good food and a fun ambiance that makes it an excellent stop for travellers, too.
5. Café Raga
If you find yourself needing a pick-me-up after one too many fun nights in the city, you’re not alone. Luckily, Café Raga offers expertly crafted coffees using Honduran roasts that could easily bring you back from the dead.
6. La Hacienda Lenca
You can’t visit Honduras without trying some of the authentic cuisine. Luckily, there’s plenty of restaurants that offer authenticity — and La Hacienda Lenca is considered to be among the best. Whether you’re looking for grilled meats or a decadent vegetarian option, you’ll be delighted with the generous portions and lovingly crafted food.
7. Cuevas de Ayasta
Once you’ve arrived in the gorgeous Santa Ana municipality, these historical caves are a site you should prioritize visiting. Whether you prefer to have an accompanying guide or visit solo, you’ll quickly find yourself intrigued by the incredible petroglyphs featured in the Cuevas de Ayasta.
8. Parque Soberania
Aside from the delightful features of this central park, including the Spanish colonial architecture and lush, well-maintained foliage, the Parque Soberania offers an incredible photo-op. You’ll be delighted by the coffee fountain found at the center of the park, and likely won’t be able to resist joining other tourists in taking an iconic and fun picture.
9. Cueva Del Gigante
There’s never a bad time to learn something new, and that’s especially true when you’re taking a vacation across the world. For that reason, we just can’t emphasize visiting the Cueva del Gigante enough! This incredible archaeological site is distinguished by ancient pictographs and markings believed to be created by the earliest inhabitants of Honduras.
10. Restaurante Papá Chepe
Another great option for authentic Honduran and Central American cuisine is Restaurante Papá Chepe. The delightful breakfast options include fresh fruit and juice, as well as classic and well-prepared options like eggs, toast, and coffee. And for lunch and dinner, you can expect to choose from a variety of well-prepared and extremely affordable Honduran and American dishes.
Is Honduras Safe? How To Visit Honduras Safely
If you’re looking to visit Honduras, the easiest way to visit is by going through the airlines. You can book flights to Roatan through American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Airlines. This is a particularly good option if you worried, “is Honduras safe?” The airlines certainly are.
If you fly to the Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport in San Pedro Sula, you can get connecting services that will take you to your intended destination. Flights to San Pedro Sula are offered by American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Continental Airlines.
If you’re interested in taking a cruise to Roatan, you can also consider booking a trip through cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Princess, Carnival, or Norwegian Cruise Lines. The two cruise ship ports in Honduras are the Port of Roatan in Coxen Hole, which services non-Carnival cruise ships, and the Mahogany Bay port, which services Carnival Cruise Line.
Depending on your desired destination, you may find that some services offer a better match than others. It’s worth researching your specific situation to find a best fit. Rather than asking is Honduras safe, it’s better to research the safety of your specific vacation plans. Regardless of how you find your way to Honduras, you’re sure to have fun.
If you’re interested in reading more articles about some of the best travel destinations in North America, please consider reading our posts about the Fandango Pass and the Juniper Lake region of California. If you prefer to go across the globe, our informational guide on the best Europe travel packages is sure to help you out.
If you have experiences to share or advice for other travelers to Honduras, please feel free to share in the comments! While it’s easy to wonder, “is Honduras safe”, we can make it a safer experience for everyone by sharing our experience and expertise.
