Honduras

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 911 for police.
• Dial 911 for ambulance. 

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events, including soccer matches.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Protests often take place near the Presidential Palace, the National Congress, and universities in Tegucigalpa.
• Protests directed at the U.S. government may happen near the U.S. embassy.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• Protests can close major roads and highways for long periods.
  • Demonstrations often occur on the CA-5 highway, the main road between Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula. This road leads to Palmerola International Airport (XPL) near Comayagua, the main airport for Tegucigalpa. 

Crime

Crime and violence are serious problems in Honduras. Violent crime is common. It includes homicide, armed robbery, rape, and kidnapping. Gangs are active and involved in extortion, street crime, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.

Local police may not have enough resources to respond to or investigate serious crimes.

Crime by region

While crime and violence are serious problems throughout Honduras. However, the north coast and central parts of the country have the highest crime rates.

• Gracias a Dios: Do Not Travel to Gracias a Dios department. It is remote, has poor infrastructure, few government services, and little police or military presence. Drug trafficking is common.
  • U.S. government employees working in Honduras are not allowed to travel to Gracias a Dios department due to safety risks.

Due to the dynamic nature of the security situation in Honduras (including in some parts of the following departments: Francisco Morazan; Cortes; and Colon), the Embassy closely monitors crime rates and requires U.S. government employees and their families to receive approval before visiting high-risk areas. You should monitor news and other local sources and avoid areas where crime is reported.

Robbery and theft

• The most common crimes against Americans in Honduras are robbery and theft. Armed robbers often approach victims on motorcycles, steal their belongings at gunpoint, and drive away. Robbers also watch ATMs and target people using them.

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial and Internet romance scams are common in Honduras. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a “romantic” relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911.

Also contact the U.S. embassy at +504-2236-9320, +504-2238-5114, this number can also be reached after hours.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Help you report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victims compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be careful using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections of equipment at many places are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities may not be marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.
• Research service providers before your trip. Make sure they use internationally-certified and appropriate equipment, guides, and safety measures.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned. Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been arrested, faced criminal charges and even convicted of crimes.

• It is illegal to bring firearms into Honduras. If you bring firearms to Honduras, you may be detained and charged with a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Honduras, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. 

Detention conditions

• U.S. citizens detained in Honduras face difficult prison conditions. Violence between inmates is common. It is also difficult to access money, medical care, medication, and hygiene items while in prison. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Business and investment:

• Before starting a business or profession in Honduras, check with local authorities about required permits or licenses.
• Many U.S. businesses and citizens have found corruption to be a serious problem. Poor regulation means financial investments are risky and have led to big losses.
• Be very careful before investing in real estate. Fraudulent deeds are common and have led to many disputes. Some U.S. citizens have arrived in Honduras to find people living on their property. Threats and violence have been used in property disputes.
• Many U.S. citizens have reported long delays in court cases and a lack of options in the legal system.
• For further information, review the State Department’s Investment Climate Statement and the U.S. embassy’s information page on purchasing property in Honduras.

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your trip using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Honduras.
• However, crimes against the gay and lesbian people may go unpunished. There have been cases of police harassment at gay and lesbian nightclubs.
• Gay and lesbian travelers should be careful when expressing affection in public.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Honduras prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is not consistently enforced.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers

• Sexual harassment and assault occur in Honduras. Women may experience unwanted attention.
• Domestic violence is a serious issue, and support services may be limited.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Honduras prior to traveling.
• Journalists and human rights defenders may face threats and violence. 
• Review our Journalists Abroad, for more information.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Honduras Traveler Information page provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism Information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 911 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not widely available.
• Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.
• Ambulances may not be equipped with advanced medical equipment.
• They are not staffed with trained paramedics.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• Medical care is not free in Honduras. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Honduran hospitals often require payment up front or proof of good insurance before treating or admitting a patient.
• Honduran hospitals may refuse to discharge a patient until all bills are paid.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Honduras.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics may lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront before treatment or admission.
• Patients must cover all costs, including for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, know that medical systems abroad are different from the United States. They do not follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.

• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Honduras.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Honduras.

Prescription medications

• ·Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be careful when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Honduras does not allow the importation of marijuana, cannabis, or CBD products, even with a prescription. If you have any amount of marijuana, including vape cartridges, edibles, organic cannabis, or any CBD products, you may face criminal prosecution for possession or drug trafficking.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Honduras to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Honduras with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Honduran courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Honduras via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences. 

Water quality and food safety

• In Honduras, tap water is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and check the seal.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless you ask for bottled water.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in Honduras.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Honduras.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. 

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Driving in Honduras can be dangerous because of crime, poor road conditions, and heavy truck traffic. U.S. government employees and their families are prohibited from traveling between cities after dark, except when traveling between Tegucigalpa and Palmerola International Airport (XPL) or between Tegucigalpa and Soto Cano Air Base.

• Roads are poorly lit or marked.
• Traffic signs may be missing or hard to see.
• Drivers may not use headlights at night.
• People and animals wander onto the roads.
• Rockslides are common, especially in the rainy season from May through December. This can close major highways.
• Carjackings and robberies occur more frequently on remote stretches of road between cities.

Traffic laws

• Honduras recognizes valid U.S. driver’s licenses.
• If you are in an accident, contact the Honduran transit authority (“Transito”) by dialing 911.
• Honduran law requires all vehicles involved in an accident to remain in place until transit authority agents arrive.
• Notify your car insurance company as soon as possible after an accident.
• Carry ID when driving. This includes your driver’s license, copies of passports, and vehicle registration cards.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Choose taxis or rideshares carefully.
• Do not hail taxis on the street.
• Use radio-taxi car services, which are taxi companies that book rides by phone, or app-based ride-share programs. Note the driver’s name and license number.
• Hotels and resorts may recommend trusted taxi or shuttle services.
• If you reserve a taxi, ask the driver not to pick up other passengers. Agree on the fare before you enter the vehicle and have small bills available for payment. Local taxi drivers often do not have change.
• Do not travel alone, if possible.

Public and commercial transportation

• Do not travel on public minibuses.
• If you must travel by private bus, use first-class buses during daylight hours.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Honduras’ Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight.
• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Honduras should check the following: 

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Honduras is vulnerable to hurricanes, heavy rains, and flooding, especially from June to December.
• Rockslides and landslides are common during the rainy season from June to December.
• Earthquakes may occur.
• For up-to-date information, visit Honduras’ National Emergency Management Commission (COPECO) and the National Hurricane Center.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefit

U.S. citizens living in Honduras

• If you are a U.S. citizen living in Honduras, please visit the American Citizen Services page on the U.S. embassy’s website to learn more about voting, and making appointments to renew your passport, register the birth of a child, obtain federal benefits, and more. 

Embassies and consulates