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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Honduras

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 7, 2024

Located in Central America, Honduras is a tropical paradise attracting many tourists every year to its gorgeous islands, lush rainforests and picturesque mountains.

With its immediate access to the world’s second largest barrier reef, Honduras presents some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in the Caribbean. It also has a collection of biosphere reserves, national parks and marine reserves. All combine to protect and showcase the country’s astounding natural habitats. Add in some easy access and your days lounging by the beach can easily be balanced by epic outdoor adventures.

Not far from these memorable locations are equally splendid coffee plantations. These are surrounded by quaint small towns where indigenous culture runs strong. Elsewhere, old colonial settlements established by conquistadors maintain amazing heritage and architecture.

What’s more, there are many tourist attractions in Honduras like ancient Mayan ruins and festive celebrations. From whitewater rafting to hiking and exotic wildlife viewing, there is no end to fun things to do and adventure here.

17. Pulhapanzak Waterfall

Tumbling over 40 meters, Pulhapanzak Waterfall is the best in Honduras. Seeing the falls is an easy day trip from San Pedro Sula. The falls are surrounded by beautiful rainforest making the trek all the more meritorious.

Although this is one of the best places to visit in Honduras, guides are required for this adventure. The falls are the highlight of a privately run area. The trek to the falls follows an, at times, challenging path but you’re immediately rewarded once they come into view.

The veil-like falls bounce down the rockfall where green vegetation clings for dear life. It’s utterly picturesque and with the additional fun of a swim or zipline, the falls promise to be one of your trip highlights.

16. Guanaja

One of the three main isles in the Bay Islands, Guanaja, is an island of rolling hills and pristine shorelines. Roatán is the most popular of the three, making Guanaja a peaceful place waiting to be explored.

The island is enveloped by a wonderful coral reef. This makes spending days by the turquoise sea and snorkeling or diving an easy decision.

Away from the beaches, get among the Caribbean pine that has grown all across the island. The unspoiled terrain and lack of major developments make the island a gem to explore. Hiking trails snake throughout, leading to stories and experiences had by few who come to Honduras.

15. La Tigra National Park

Not far from Tegucigalpa, La Tigra National Park sits high in the Central American Cordillera. It’s the oldest national park in the country and one of the most captivating.

At over 2,000 meters, this unspoiled wilderness is a welcome escape to the warm, lower altitudes. The landscapes fit this change in temperature and you can explore this on one of the many hiking trails.

The main trek is around 6 kilometers and is called the Sendero Principal. It takes you further into the mountains on an intermediate hike. You’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife and the park is renowned for its bird watching. There have been 350 species identified here.

14. Gracias

After weeks in the mountains, conquistador Juan de Chavez finally descended back into the valley. When he did this, he discovered flat open land. He was so thankful that he named the area Gracias. Today, it’s one of Honduras’ enduring colonial towns.

Once the capital of all of Central America, Gracias still has significance some 500 years later. This is because of its collection of astounding colonial architecture, the surrounding Lenca villages and close access to national parks.

The original town grid, while redeveloped, has kept the same layout for centuries. This allows you to retrace ancient footsteps as you wander by modern chic cafes and beautiful whitewashed homes on your way to the town’s highlights. This includes Museo Casa Galeano and the El Fuerte de San Cristobal. The latter is a historic fortification.

13. Gumbalimba Park

In the Bay Islands, on Roatán, Gumbalimba Park is an untamed world filled with sloths, white-faced monkeys, roaming iguanas and macaws. Since 2003, this private, eco-adventure park has been taking guests on a thrilling journey.

This journey is a mix of animal encounters and eco-tourism. But also a lot of classic fun, including their on-site pool, animal interaction area, a museum, gorgeous gardens and its very own waterfront.

This smorgasbord of activities makes Gumbalimba Park great for traveling families. The museum boasts pre-Columbian artifacts, while from the waterfront you can go for a snorkel and see what lies below. However, the real thrills come from the free roaming animals which meander about the park and could lie behind any corner.

12. Cayos Cochinos

The pure definition of paradise, Cayos Cochinos aka Hog Islands is found 17 kilometers from the port town of La Ceiba. Cayos Cochinos is an 15-island archipelago, with most of them being the size of a teardrop above the turquoise sea.

The two main islands are Cayo Menor and Cayo Grande. You could easily walk from one end to the other. But in some of the smaller atolls, someone with a strong arm could throw a rock from side to side. With such all-encompassing beauty you’ll immediately feel on island time.

Cayos Cochinos is a part of a wider marine preserve that envelopes the archipelago. This is noticeable, especially as you dive into the glorious underwater world.

11. Río Cangrejal

One of the most immersive adventures you can take in Honduras is a trip down the Río Cangrejal. The surging Class III-IV waters welcome you and immediately get your heart racing.

Coursing through northern Honduras over 30 kilometers, the river attracts thrill-seekers from around the world. Most white water rafting adventures will take you out on the water for a couple of hours with the pros ensuring you feel in good hands. The turquoise waters mix in with the splashing white and the fast currents whip you downstream dodging enormous boulders as you go.

For a massive undertaking, adventurous souls can consider the 13-day expedition that guides you through the spectacular Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve.

10. Comayagua Street Carpets

For over 300 years Comayagua was the capital of Honduras. That may have switched to Tegucigalpa, but the city founded by Spanish explorers in 1537 has some of the best colonial architecture in the country.

However, that’s not the main reason why you should visit. The famed Comayagua Street Carpets are found along the city’s main street. Using nothing but colored sawdust and powder, these “carpets” known as Alfombras, depict vivid religious scenes.

Since the sawdust and powder aren’t permanent, these eye-catching works of art disappear in the minutes following a hoard of marching steps. But don’t worry, they’re left on display for nine hours prior.

9. Little French Key

When exploring the Bay Islands, don’t just focus on the three main isles. Little French Key is an easy day trip from Roatán and is a veritable paradise.

The tranquility of Little French Key washes over you like a soothing towel the moment you step on land. Hammocks dance between swaying palms and glass-like water laps the golden sands.

You can bathe by the water on a sun lounge, snorkel and explore or paddle a kayak along the coast. Travelers can even sign up for a beachfront massage.

When you’re ready to head inland, the island’s wildlife sanctuary presents a protected ecosystem featuring toucans, deer and boisterous monkeys.

8. Visit a Coffee Plantation

The flavorful arabica coffee of Honduras has steadily developed a reputation over the last couple of decades. There are several coffee regions from Agalta and Copan to El Paraiso and Opalaca. So exploring a coffee plantation is a simple thing to add to your itinerary.

The beautiful part about exploring the plantations is the ability to get up close to the process. Each region has slightly different flavor profiles. Copan is the most renowned, with a subtle chocolate taste. The warm temperatures of El Paraiso lead to sweet flavors.

After exploring your chosen plantation, you’ll revel in the culture and communities that surround them. These provide a unique look into local life.

7. Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve

The UNESCO World Heritage Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve features a diverse array of ecosystems and wildlife. Pine-filled savannas are spliced between tropical rainforests and sprawling wetlands. It’s an enormous natural space that only native Pech and Miskito communities have made home.

Like Punta Sal below, exploring here brings you up close to some unforgettable wildlife. Jaguars roam about, the long snout of Baird’s tapirs make an appearance and harpy eagles zoom above. That’s before you head to the wetlands and shoreline where loggerhead and hawksbill turtles can be seen.

But you can expect trekking here to be tricky. Grab yourself a guide so you can spend less time in parts of the park inaccessible after wet season storms and more time exploring.

6. Punta Sal National Park

Encompassing a vast lagoon and a gorgeous shoreline, Punta Sal National Park is a natural utopia. Across these two ecosystems lies a breadth of adventures, each as eye-catching as the next.

Along the shoreline are soft golden sands lapped ever calmly by the emerald-hued Caribbean Sea. It’s a scene straight from a postcard. As you turn away from the water, the sea is replaced by rugged outcrops where, if you look closely, you can see monkeys bounding from tree to tree.

From the shore, you can venture into the jungle that has a rich collection of flora and fauna. Jaguars linger in the distance, monkeys make themselves known and the rainforest quickly envelopes you. Soon you’ll reach the lagoon where estuaries and mangroves burst from the water’s edge.

5. Lago de Yojoa

Honduras’ impeccable diving scene and golden shores take the bulk of traveler’s attention. This is good news for those who want to venture further inland. Lago de Yojoa isn’t just the largest lake in Honduras but marks one of Central America’s premier bird-watching destinations.

Every year swarms of native and migrating birds find their way to Lago de Yojoa. In fact, around 400 species have been identified here making use of the lake’s varied habitat. Hiking trails take you around its banks to long-range water and mountain views.

There are several lakeside spots where relaxing hotels can take you for the night. In the morning, wake up early for a kayak session where water sparkles in the early light and all you can hear is the splashing of your paddle and the birds calling out.

Enveloped in ivory white beaches , Utila is an island from a dream. Small in size (only 13km long), it’s a sparsely touched island that dances between paradise and wilderness.

The former is seen along its shores and from the views of waterfront accommodation. From the sand, you can dive into a vibrant sea where rays, turtles and colorful schools of fish roam. The wilderness is marked by the dense forests that flanked the island’s east and west ends. Only a few dirt roads venture in and untold adventures can be had for those who bravely venture in.

Come nightfall, get ready to experience some of the Bay Islands’ best nightlife. There’s all but one major road on Utila and that’s lined with bars and clubs whose neon shines into the early hours.

3. Copán Ruínas

Close to the Honduras- Guatemala border, the Copán Ruínas is a former ceremonial city from the Mayan era. The Copán Ruins can be traced back over 2,400 years.

Copán is a relatively small Mayan site famous for its remarkable series of portrait stelae. The stelae and sculptured decorations of the buildings of Copán are some of the very finest surviving art of ancient Mesoamerica. The city grew into one of the most important Maya sites by the 5th century with more than 20,000 inhabitants but was mysteriously abandoned a few centuries later.

After making your way to modern-day Copán, you’ll find yourself around a kilometer from the ancient site. On arrival, the narrow path guides you through the tight Jaguar and Rosalia tunnels. It’s your first hint of how Mayan engineering works.

The layered construction from the tunnels to the temples reveals incredible Mayan engineering. The first of the main temples is the Temple of Inscriptions. However, across the Great Plaza is another that overshadows it completely. This is the Hieroglyphic Stairway, the center of the ancient city and one that stands strong among the surrounding jungles.

2. West Bay Beach, Roatán

Located on Roatán, West Bay Beach can lay claim to being Honduras’ best stretch of ivory sand. Before you head offshore, you must take in the unspoiled beauty of this beautiful beach.

On the island’s western tip, it remains sheltered from the prevailing winds. This provides pristine sunbathing conditions, or sand castle building for the young-uns. The water also breaks calmly, allowing for relaxing swimming and great clarity for divers.

Diving outfitters dot the shorelines, providing easy access to the natural treasures of the shore. They’re joined by a slew of restaurants and beachfront bars from which you can recoup after a lengthy dive, or stick around for what promises to be a vibrant sunset.

1. Diving Around the Bay Islands

The best way to get to know Honduras is to explore off the mainland and head to the Bay Islands. Honduras boasts some of the world’s best dive and snorkeling sites, the highlight being the underwater world off the shores of Roatán.

It’s here you’ll discover the Roatán Marine Park. These designated protected waters feature spectacular coral and a breadth of tropical sea life. Whether you’re floating on the surface or diving deep, you have the chance to get up close with rays and turtles. There have also been sightings of whale sharks.

But you’ll find amazing diving on the other two Bay Islands destinations. At Utila and Guanaja, you’ll find a backpacker-friendly scene, where many go to achieve their PADI divemasters certificate.

Map of Honduras

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Reader interactions.

September 9, 2018 at 5:33 am

I don’t think, that the maya ruins in Mexico are similar to the ones in Guatemala and Honduras. In Mexico the ruins look like “new”. In Comparison to that, if you stroll along the temples of tikal, you can get the feeling , that your are a discoverer on jungle-expedition 🙂

July 2, 2016 at 10:59 am

Copan is incredible. Enjoyed it more than Tikal. Fewer tourists and the detal on the carvings is absolutely amazing. Copan Valley is also filled with many hiking opportunities. It’s a five hour bus ride from Guatemala City.

February 19, 2013 at 6:39 pm

I’m doing a project on Honduras and I never noticed how cool this place really is… I hope to visit it some day. 🙂

February 11, 2013 at 4:10 am

The 3,000 years-old stone structures of Copán look very similar to the Mayan temples of Mexico – I would love to explore these sometime.

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Best things to do in Honduras

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written by Andy Turner

updated 31.03.2023

Rainforests, cloud forests, beaches, jungles, lakes, islands, Mayan ruins, colonial cities, and buzzing metropolises come together in Central America’s least discovered country. Here is our pick of the best things to do in Honduras .

1. See the extraordinary Copan Ruins

2. lago de yojoa for birdwatching and more, 3. see the 500-year-old churches of gracias, 4. relax by the crystal clear waters of roatan island, bay islands, 5. visiting gumbalimba park - one of the best things to do in honduras with kids, 6. explore la mosquita, 7. olancho for the most stunning and challenging terrain, 8. punta sal national park for stunning beaches and more, 9. take a tour of a coffee plantation, 10. bird watching for rare birds, 11. rio platano biosphere reserve, 12. exploring la tigra national park - one of the best things to do in honduras for hiking, 13. comayagua for colonial architechture, 14. rio cangrejal for whitewater rafting and more, 15. try honduran cuisine.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

Near the Guatemalan border is the Maya ceremonial city of Copán. The area around the ruins has been inhabited since at least 1400 BC. The town of Copán Ruínas is about 1km (0.6 miles) from the archaeological site. Tourism runs the town and within a few blocks of the cobblestone plaza are dozens of small hotels, ex-pat restaurants, and handicraft shops.

On entering the grounds of the archaeological site, a path leads to the claustrophobic Rosalia and Jaguar tunnels. The tunnels give an idea of how the Maya layered construction, building one temple over another. The trail continues to the Acropolis and Temple of Inscriptions. On the Great Plaza, diagonal from the Temple of Inscriptions, the city’s most important symbol is the Hieroglyphic Stairway.

If you are planning a backpacking trip to Honduras, check out our list of tips for backpacking in Central America .

Exploring the Mayan ruins in Copan is one of the most exciting things to do in Honduras © Inspired By Maps/Shutterstock

Surrounded by misty pine-covered mountains and coffee fincas, the 89 sq km (55 sq mile) Lago de Yojoa is a premier eco-destination that somehow isn’t swarming with tourists. It’s the country’s largest natural lake and a hotspot for birders who come from around the world hoping to glimpse some of the 400 or so species that have been identified here.

Along the lakeshore are several fine hotels, which mostly attract Honduran families, and even a small craft brewery. The American-owned D&D also runs guided boat excursions on the lake.

Lake Yojoa, Honduras © Jpiks/Shutterstock

For a short time, the sleepy colonial village of Gracias a Dios – named after conquistador Juan de Chavez’s reaction after finding flat land after weeks in the mountains – was the capital of all of Central America. Today, with nearby Lenca villages and national parks luring visitors, the town has been capitalizing on its stock of 500-year-old churches and cobblestone plazas.

Much of the original Spanish grid, topped by a small fortification on a hillside called El Fuerte de San Cristóbal, has been reconstructed, with boutique hotels and cafés filling the whitewashed houses. Once the home of a wealthy colonial family, Museo Casa Galeano is a restored colonial house stocked with artefacts, old photographs, and a folk art collection. It’s adjoined by a botanical garden, one of the oldest in the region.

Where to stay in Gracias:

• For spectacular views: Hotel and Restaurant Guancascos
• For natural surroundings: Hotel de Campo Villa de Ada

Church Iglesia Las Mercedes, Gracias, Honduras © Milosz Maslanka/Shutterstock

Most tourism to the islands rotates around Roatán, the largest of the Bay Islands at 64km long (40 miles). It’s here that the cruise industry has sunk about $100 million into modern ports. Mahogany Bay and the Port of Roatán’s Town Center have attracted waves of oversized cruise ships.

Most development has taken place on the Western half of the island. The crystal clear waters of West Bay Beach, the best in Honduras, has seen a surge in development over the past decade. Resorts and condo projects have bought up every last hectare. In the hills above West Bay is Gumbalimba Park an island adventure park with watersports, a monkey island, and a canopy tour that cruise travellers often visit.

Where to stay on Roatan Island:

• For the white sandy beach: Infinity Bay, Spa & Beach Resort
• For high quality: Naboo Resort & Dive Center - Adults Only

Find more accommodation options to stay on Roatan Island

Roatan Island, Honduras © John A. Anderson/Shutterstock

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One of the best things to do in Honduras while travelling with kids is to visit Gumbalimba Park. The park is located in the West Bay of Roatan Island and can be reached by car or taxi from other parts of the island. In the park you can explore the rich flora represented by the lush gardens, featuring a variety of tropical plants. There are also several animals, including macaws, parrots, monkeys, iguanas and sloths.

The Gumbalimba park also houses a museum with artefacts from Honduras' pre-Columbian heritage, as well as examples of traditional Honduran houses and other cultural artefacts. In addition to all the above, one of the main attractions of the park is its popular swimming area, which includes a natural swimming pool with a waterfall and a beach. Here you can enjoy snorkelling and diving in the nearby coral reefs.

Visiting Gumbalimba Park - one of the best things to do in Honduras with kids © Shutterstock

The largest tract of virgin tropical rainforest in Central America remains almost entirely unexplored. Only recently have archaeologists and explorers uncovered stone cities, revealing a lost civilization that remains a mystery. Covering the entire northeastern part of the country, La Mosquitia is sparsely populated, except for a few small towns and isolated Pech, Tawahka, Garífuna, and Miskitos villages.

It should be noted that apart from its exotic beauty Central America is also one of the cheapest destinations to travel to. Read our guide to budget trips around the world and find more places that combine excellent leisure activities with accessibility.

La Mosquita, Honduras © Gustavo Frazao/Shutterstock

Tackle Honduras’s most stunning and challenging terrain. Despite Olancho’s size – it makes up a fifth of Honduras’s total territory – tourist attractions are few, and its high, forested mountain ranges interspersed with broad valleys make getting from place to place difficult and slow.

However, these same ranges harbour some of the country’s last untouched expanses of tropical forest and cloud forest. The national parks of El Boquerón and Sierra de Agalta are awe-inspiring. Along the valleys, now given over to pastureland for cattle, are scattered villages and towns. Both Juticalpa, the department capital, and Catacamas, at the eastern end of the paved road, are good bases for exploring the region.

Olancho, Honduras © JSerrano/Shutterstock

Originally called Punta Sal, the 782km (484 miles) Parque Nacional Jeannette Kawas was renamed after the environmental activist Jeannette Kawas Fernández, who was killed after establishing the park. Two distinct ecosystems are found here: the lagoon and the peninsula. Protecting the bay from strong winds called nortes, the peninsula is home to a combination of unspoiled coral reefs, dense jungle and stunning beaches.

Los Micos Lagoon is separated by a small sandbar near Miami, and canals here weave through the rich landscape where hundreds of species of migratory birds can be seen. Outside of driving to Miami and hiring a boat to enter the lagoon, private transportation here is difficult. We recommend to use Tela-based tour operators like Garífuna Tours , which have regular trips to the lagoon and peninsula.

Punta Sal National Park in Honduras © Shutterstock

Honduras, like all Central American countries, is a significant coffee producer, with many coffee plantations located throughout the country. Coffee production is one of the most important parts of the Honduran economy, and the country is known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee.

Some coffee plantations are open for guided tours where you can get an insight into coffee production. During the tour, you can see coffee plants, learn about the harvesting and processing of coffee beans, and taste different types of coffee. Some coffee plantations also offer accommodation for visitors wishing to experience life on a coffee farm.

Honduras is known for high-quality Arabica coffee © Shutterstock

Thanks to its rainforests, swamps and cloud forests, Honduras is a popular place for bird watching. The country is home to more than 700 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.

One of the best things to do in Honduras for bird watching is to choose one of the popular destinations such as Pico Bonito National Park, La Tigra National Park, Selache National Park, or Copán Archaeological Reserve. All of these sites offer guided birdwatching tours and hikes led by local guides who will help visitors see rare and endemic species.

Scarlet macaw © Shutterstock

Named a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1980, the 525,000 hectares (1.3 million acres) Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse set of rare ecosystems including wetlands, pine savannas, and tropical forest. The only inhabitants are a few Pech and Miskito communities who live in much the same way as they have for hundreds of years.

The array of flora and fauna is dazzling, with bucket list species after bucket list species: jaguars, harpy eagles, Baird’s tapirs, and many others. Despite its natural wonders, most of the park is almost inaccessible. For much of the rainy season, travel here is impossible, while during the dry seasons, running from February to May and August to November, it requires a series of air, boat, and overland connections to get into the interior.

Parque Nacional La Tigra is a 238 sq km (92 sq miles) tract of cloud forest that has been a national park since 1982. While much of the forest was cut down by loggers and the El Rosario Mining Company, it is slowly being recovered. Hiking trails run through the park, mostly from the western entrance at Jutiapa, where there is a small campground, cabins, and a visitor centre.

The 6km (3.7 miles) Sendero Principal is the primary route across La Tigra, though a handful of other trails in various states of maintenance branch off it. Even though the park is so close to Tegucigalpa, it has a surprisingly rich collection of flora and fauna. Mammals like pumas and armadillos are rare, though more than 350 species of birds have been identified, including the resplendent quetzal and wine-throated hummingbird.

Old Mine Building El Rosario San Juancito La Tigra National Park © Shutterstock

The capital of Honduras for more than three centuries before being moved to Tegucigalpa, Comayagua, 71km (45 miles) south of Lago de Yojoa, has the best-preserved colonial architecture in the country. Founded in 1537 by the Spanish explorer Alonso de Cáceres, much of the original city grid remains, along with palaces, churches, and squares.

At the north end of Parque Central, the Catedral de Santa María dates to the late 17th century and is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. Four of the original 16 hand-carved wooden altars have been immaculately maintained. Outside in the tower, the clock dates to around 1100 and was built for the Alhambra in Granada. Iglesia La Merced, four blocks to the south, is the oldest church in Comayagua.

Where to stay in Comayagua:

• For central location: Hotel Antigua Comayagua
• For a charming atmosphere: Apartamentos Casco Historico Comayagua

Honduras, Comayagua city © Shutterstock

Whitewater rafting (also known as river running) and kayaking are one of the best things to do in Honduras to observe the scenery and wildlife of the country. Dozens of professional outfitters around the region will provide all of the necessities. You can be assured that you are in good hands: guides have been through training in the classroom and on the rivers.

In Honduras, the Cangrejal River, on the border of Pico Bonito National Park, has Class III-IV rapids in turquoise water, dodging giant boulders as toucans fly overhead. The region’s longest rafting experience is in La Mosquitia, however, where 13-day expeditions run through the remote Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve, giving spectacular views of rare wildlife.

Cangrejal river in Honduras © Shutterstock

Honduran cuisine is influenced by Spanish, African and indigenous cuisines. A distinctive feature of the cuisine is the variety of ingredients such as seafood, beans, plantain, maize and tropical fruits. The most popular Honduran dishes are:

• Baleadas: a popular street food dish consisting of a flour tortilla filled with fried beans, cheese and sometimes meat or avocado.
• Plátanos Maduros: ripe plantain that is fried and served as a side dish or appetizer.
• Carne Asada: grilled or roasted beef served with rice, beans and salad.

Honduran baleadas© Shutterstock

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Honduras Travel Guide

Honduras has a slow paced lifestyle, natural beauty found in an extensive network of national parks and reserves, and the historical ruins of Copán, one of the world's finest Mayan sites. Snorkeling, diving and swimming are great pastimes around the Bay and Hog Islands. The capital of Honduras, Tegucigalpa, has many sights focusing around the domed 18th-century cathedral and Parque Central.

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Honduras Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Unfortunately, owing to its violent past, it often gets glossed over for more polished Central American hotspots.

However, Honduras today is a much safer country and is popular with intrepid backpackers and expats looking to get off the beaten path. With world-class diving, a cheap cost of living, and incredible weather, Honduras offers some of the best value in the region.

That said, you’ll still need to take precautions and keep your wits about you — especially on the mainland — as crime and gang activity are still common.

This travel guide to Honduras can help you see the country, stay safe, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful and affordable country!

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Top 5 Things to See and Do in the Honduras

1. Explore the Copán Ruins

These incredible Mayan ruins are located near the border with Guatemala and are one of Honduras’ most popular tourist attractions. Nestled in a lush jungle valley, Copán Ruinas are a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the height of the 5th century when Copán was a powerful capital of the Southern Maya kingdom. But in 738 CE, the king was captured and executed by his rival and archeologists believe that the city was abandoned by 800 CE. Today, the ruins attract tourists for their intricate stelae, tunnels, a hieroglyphic stairway, as well as the geography of the area itself which is filled with diverse wildlife including monkeys, sloths, parrots, and macaws. It takes a couple of days to see the entire site so try not to squeeze your visit into a day trip. There are two main sites: Copán, the main site originally used for nobility, and Las Sepulturas. To get there, head to the town of Copan Ruinas near the border with Guatemala; the ruins are nearby. Bring lots of sunscreen and water. Admission is 370 HNL.

2. Dive the Bay Islands

The Bay Islands, known as “Islas de la Bahía,” are one of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. They are located in the Gulf of Honduras and near the Belize Barrier Reef, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. The Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja archipelagos all offer stunning dive sites with crystal-clear waters and incredible marine life. Roatan is the largest island while Utila is the cheapest, attracting budget divers as the island as it also offers a stunning array of wildlife, including nurse sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and more. Get up close to colorful coral formations or deep dive 2,000 feet into the abyss for bluntnose sixgill shark sightings. Prices start at 870 HNL for one dive or a package of ten dives for 7,405 HNL.

3. Relax at Lake Yojoa

The country’s largest lake is rich in biodiversity with almost 400 bird species and over 100 plant species. This incredible site is a popular fishing spot for locals, a great place to visit a coffee plantation tour, and a fun place to zipline. Or if you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled experience, hike behind the stunning Pulhapanzak waterfall and explore the inside caves with the sound of water pounding around you. For something a bit more peaceful, rent a kayak and spend a few hours paddling around the lake. Or, if you don’t mind small spaces, head into the Caves of Taulabé where you can either explore on your own or hire a spelunking guide if you want to go deep underground. For a nice wander through the lush jungle wetlands, check out Los Naranjos Ecological and Archaeological Park. And if you’re up for a real challenge, hire a guide to climb to the top of Santa Barbara (2,744 meters/9,000 feet).

4. Adventure at Pico Bonito National Park

This sprawling bio-diverse national park is home to lush tropical jungles and moody cloud forests. It’s a haven for hiking, wildlife watching, and ziplining. The Cangrejal River is a fantastic place for white water rafting, with Class I-IV rapids. Or you can go swimming in the river and even jump off the rocks into the water if you feel like it. There are many different hiking trails here too, like the La Roca loop and the El Mapache trail to Bejuco Falls. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, don’t miss it. You can reach the park from La Ceiba or do it as a day trip from nearby regions.

5. Escape to Cayos Cochinos

The archipelago of Cayos Cochinos, made up of Cayo Menor and Cayo Grande, are two coral-abundant islands that offer some of the most postcard-perfect sandy white shorelines in Central America. They offer plentiful diving and snorkeling and the nearby cays are home to the world’s second-largest coral reef system. The only way to reach the Cochino Cays Marine Sanctuary is by boat; you can take a chartered day tour from Roatan and Utila or from La Ceiba. It’s a great place to disconnect and relax.

Other Things to See and Do in the Honduras

1. visit mercado guamilito.

Located in San Pedro Sula, this traditional market is an excellent place to buy Lenca ceramics, high-quality (and reasonably priced) leather, cigars, and silver. There’s also a no-frills food market that locals claim offers the best baleada , a national dish made with flour tortillas, cheese, cream, and fried beans. The market is open daily from 7am-4 pm.

2. Chill out on Utila

Most backpackers make a beeline for the island of Roatan, but if you’re looking for something beyond diving, Utila is a better option. It has a buzzing nightlife, cheap accommodation, beautiful white sand beaches, and even the chance to spot whale sharks. The 45-minute ferry ride from La Ceiba to Utila costs 750 HNL.

3. Visit Parque Nacional Jeannette Kawas

This national park is named after Jeannette Kawas, an environmental activist who fought to protect the area from commercial development and was brutally murdered in 1995. Now, her legacy lives on with this protected area, filled with abundant wildlife including howler monkeys, boa constrictors, and toucans. You’ll also find pristine beaches and untouched coral reefs here. The secluded park is also known as Punta Sal National Park and is just a 30-minute boat ride from Tela, a Caribbean coastal town. Admission is 120 HNL. Day trip prices start around 690 HNL.

4. Go zip lining

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, Honduras has a dozen zip-lining experiences to choose from all around the country (including several on Roatan). Prices vary but expect to pay at least 950-1,085 HNL for a half-day tour. Lunch is usually included.

5. Explore the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve

This heavily-forested area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last remaining tropical rainforests in Central America. Established in 1982, it spans over 5,250 square kilometers (2,027 square miles) and is home to Mayan ruins, ancient petroglyphs, pumas, jaguars, giant ant-eaters, sloths, and over 2,000 indigenous locals. Getting here requires some effort (it’s a 6-hour bus from La Ceiba followed by a short boat ride) but you’ll be rewarded by sweeping vistas and a rare look at indigenous life in the rainforest. You can hire a day guide on arrival (for around 400 HNL) or embark on a multi-day tour up the river for 3,000 HNL. Kayaking day trips start around 940 HNL and crocodile night watching starts around 1200 HNL. Admission to the reserve itself is by donation.

6. Visit Valle de Angeles

This colonial town makes for a good day trip from Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. It’s located 35 minutes away by car and, aside from the beautiful colonial buildings, there’s a lot of affordable handicraft shopping. While you’re here, spend some time relaxing in Parque Central, where you’ll see the historic colonial church or head into La Tigra, the nearby cloud forests that are full of hiking trails (admission is 247 HNL). Don’t forget insect repellent if you do visit the forest!

7. Attend Carnaval de La Ceiba

This is the biggest carnival in Central America. Held every May in La Ceiba, it attracts half a million revelers every year. The celebration is in honor of Saint Isidore the Laborer, the patron saint of the city. For two weeks, throngs of people flock to La Ceiba’s barrios (neighborhoods), who compete to throw the best carnavalito (little carnival) in town. It’s all in anticipation for the main event, the rainbow-filled parade “La Feria de San Isidro”, which takes place along Avenida San Isidro on the 3rd or 4th Saturday of May.

8. Go hiking in Parque Nacional Cusuco

This ethereal cloud forest is nestled into the Merendon mountain range near the border with Guatemala, making it somewhat difficult to access (during the rainy season you’ll need a 4×4). It’s a 2-3-hour drive from San Pedro. There are five stunning hiking trails that cross the cloud and dwarf forests. Expect to see plenty of parrots, toucans, and quetzals here. Unless you have a 4WD vehicle, you’ll need to go with a tour company. Admission is around 250 HNL.

9. See the Roatan Butterfly Garden

Located in Roatan, this indoor garden is home to over 30 species of moths and butterflies, as well as a large collection of boa constrictors, parrots, scarlet macaws, and tropical orchids. It is best to visit during the early morning when the butterflies are most active. Admission is around 358 HNL.

10. Visit the Lancetilla Botanical Garden

Located on the coast in Tela, Honduras’s only botanical garden happens to also be the largest in Latin America. Spanning over 4,100 acres, it boasts thousands of varieties of national and exotic flora and fauna (including a bamboo collection and an orchid collection). There are over 1,500 trees in its arboretum and the garden also has 3,000 acres of virgin rainforest. It’s open 365 days a year and admission is 198 HNL.

Honduras Travel Costs

Hostels – Shared dorms with 4-8 beds cost 370 HNL per night, with private rooms costing anything from 400 to 1,400 HNL. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are generally included. Most hostels also have A/C and hot water.

Wild camping isn’t recommended here due to petty theft, rainstorms, and the sweltering humidity. There are a few campgrounds around the country, though they aren’t any cheaper than staying in a hostel.

Budget hotels – Budget hotels can be found for around 1,000 HNL for a double room. Most of the cheaper hotels include Wi-Fi, however, for a hotel with a kitchen, A/C, and a pool you’ll pay at least 2,000 HNL per night.

Airbnb is available in Honduras but really only found in Tegucigalpa and the tourist spots on the coast. Prices start at 500 HNL for a shared room, 1,000 HNL for a private room, and 2,900 for a villa.

Food – Honduran cuisine leans heavily on fish, soups, beans, rice, and coconut. Popular dishes include guisado (a spicy chicken stew), carne asada (grilled sliced beef), and baleda (cheese and bean tortilla). Generally, you can expect a mix of Spanish, Lenca, and Caribbean influences.

Local meals consisting of rice, beans, and a drink costs around 120 HNL. Set lunch menus at comedores (small local eateries) offer large portions for cheap so stick to them when eating out.

Street food is popular here, with popular favorites being grilled corn, baleadas (a tortilla filled with fried beans, cream, and cheese), pastelitos (a Cuban pastry similar to empanadas), and fruit smoothies (a common breakfast here). These are usually under 50 HNL.

A three-course meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine costs 600 HNL, including a drink. These establishments usually add a 10% service charge to your bill too. Expect a blend of traditional Mayan cuisine (rice, beans, corn, seafood) with touches of Western and Caribbean flair.

A bottle of water is 17 HNL and a latte or cappuccino will set you back 43 HNL. Domestic beer is around 70 HNL.

Backpacking Honduras Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 875 HNL per day, you can stay in a dorm, eat street food for all your meals, take buses to get around, and do some hikes or other free activities like lounging on the beach. If you plan to drink, you’ll need to add around 150 HNL more per day.

On a mid-range budget of 2,400 HNL per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out at local restaurants, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like visiting national parks or diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 5,200 HNL, you can stay in a private villa or nicer hotel, take taxis everywhere, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, and do more tours and activities. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in HNL.

Honduras Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Honduras is very affordable. You’d be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money here unless you are actually trying to. That said, a true budget traveler always looks for ways to save. Here are some money-saving tips to help you:

• Refill your water – The tap water in Honduras is not safe to drink so make sure you have a reusable bottle with a built-in filter. To stay safe, bring a water filter like LifeStraw to ensure your water is clean and free from bacteria. You’ll save money on buying bottled water and save the environment too!
• Know what to pay – When you need to barter for something, talk to your hostel/hotel staff first. Find out what a fair price is so that you can avoid getting overcharged.
• Avoid paying with a credit card – Honduras is a cash-driven society. In places where you can pay with a credit card, expect fees of 5-10%. Pay with cash as often as possible.
• Learn some Spanish – To avoid getting overcharged, learn some Spanish. Even just a few words and phrases can help you avoid being charged tourist prices.
• Travel during the shoulder season – Prices are highest during the dry months (December-April). To avoid crowds and save money, travel during the rainy season or shoulder season. You might get rained on, however, accommodation and activities will be cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Honduras has a small Couchsurfing scene, but if you book early you can likely find a host who can share their insider knowledge and give you a free place to stay.

Where to Stay in Honduras

Honduras has plenty of fun, safe, and social hostels. Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Honduras:

• Roatan Backpackers Hostel (Roatan)
• Palmira Hostel (Tegucigalpa)
• Iguana Azul (Copan Ruinas)
• Jungle River Lodge (La Ceiba)

How to Get Around Honduras

Bus – The cheapest way to get from A to B in Honduras is by bus. For local city journeys, taxis are recommended due to safety issues (petty theft is common on public transportation).

Direct buses for cross-country trips are more expensive but more comfortable and faster than the slower buses that make multiple stops. A direct bus from Tegucigalpa to La Ceiba takes around 6 hours and costs 860-950 HNL. A direct bus from Tegucigalpa to Copan Ruinas takes 9 hours and costs 1,293 HNL.

The multiple-stop buses ( parando ) are slower and can add a few extra hours to your trip. But, if you’re not in a rush, they can save you upwards of 50%.

Taxi – Taxis are plentiful and can be found pretty much everywhere. Fares start at 74 HNL and are charged at 65 HNL per kilometer.

Shared taxis ( colectivos ) are common for popular routes in the bigger cities too and will slash the private rates in half. Negotiate prices prior to getting in the car. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for rates before you arrive so you aren’t ripped off.

When on the islands, water taxis are your best option for getting around. They run from Roatan to West End, and from Coyolito to Isla del Tigre. Shared water taxis cost between 75-100 HNL depending on the route.

Flying – Domestic flights in Honduras are expensive. Connections between the major cities (La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula) to Roatan, run frequently, however, one-way tickets to these key destinations usually cost between 3,000-4,250 HNL each way. If you’re on a budget, avoid flying.

Car rental – Driving in Honduras is not recommended as the roads aren’t that safe (landslides, flooding), there’s heavy traffic, and robberies are common. Avoid renting a car and stick to buses.

When to Go to Honduras

Honduras is, for the most part, a year-round destination. Temperatures hover around the 27-32°C (82-90°F) mark all year. However, the clammy humidity can feel like it’s higher than that during the rainy season (May-November).

Hurricanes are possible from April to October, however, if you’re willing to change your travel plans on a whim due to the weather, you can save a lot of money by visiting during this period. Be aware that booking during las lluvias (the rainy season), means rural areas (and hiking trails) can be harder to access due to storms.

The driest months, from December to April are considered peak season and are the best (albeit most expensive time) to visit. The coastal areas are particularly packed during this period, although ‘busy’ for Honduras is still pretty quiet compared to other popular Latin American destinations. If you’re serious about diving, you’re also going to get the best visibility during this time.

How to Stay Safe in Honduras

Honduras has found it difficult to shrug off its former status as the ‘murder capital of the world.’ Yet the country has improved leaps and bounds in terms of safety and the majority of travelers have no trouble navigating the country safely.

Homicides decreased by over 50% from 2012-2019 and kidnappings declined by 82% from 2013-2019. The majority of crimes happen in the major cities: Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and La Ceiba so I would be extra vigilant in those places, especially at night. (I wouldn’t walk around the capital at night alone.)

Outside of those areas, crime is much less common (especially in the Bay Islands). That being said, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, in busy urban areas, and near bus stops/stations.

Take cabs at night (ideally with other travelers) instead of walking alone and avoid walking down side streets that are not well lit.

Walking around during the daytime is usually trouble-free as long as you keep your valuables out of sight and don’t flash fancy jewelry, phones, or money.

Avoid taking the city bus, where pickpocketing is rife.

Since scams can occur here, read about common travel scams to avoid so you can be prepared.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here as long as they follow the advice above. Additionally, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re visiting during hurricane season (April-October), be sure to check the weather regularly.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Honduras Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Honduras Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

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The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

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How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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Museo para la Identidad Nacional

Tegucigalpa

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Plaza Morazán

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Centro de la Cultura Garinagu de Honduras

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Basílica de Suyapa

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Iglesia Los Dolores

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Iglesia La Merced

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Monumento a Simón Bolívar

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