Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Honduras Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Latest updates: The Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Honduras - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Honduras due to crime.
Regional advisory - Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid non-essential travel to the following areas and departments due to instances of violent crime, increased gang activity and violent demonstrations:
- within 20 km of the border with Guatemala with the exception of Copán Ruinas
- within 20 km of the border with Salvador
- in Atlántida: the city of La Ceiba
- in Choluteca: the cities of Apacilagua, Orocuina and San Isidro
- all Colon, with the exception of the city of Trujillo and its neighbourhoods
- in Cortés: the eastern neighbourhoods of San Pedro Sula, including Rivera Hernandez and Chamalecón as well as the cities of Choloma and Cofradía
- in Distrito Central: the peri-urban areas of Tegucigalpa and Comayagüela
- in Francisco Morazan: the city of Nueva Armenia
- in Intibucá: the city of La Esperanza
- in Lempira: the city of Las Floresall Gracias a Dios, Olancho and Yoro
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 – Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place, including a nationwide curfew from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
You must wear a face covering in public.
If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
Coronavirus COVID-19 In Honduras – Government of Honduras
Crime
Violent Crime
Drug trafficking, transnational organized crime and street gang activity is prevalent in Honduras. As a result, violent crimes such as kidnapping, extortion, home invasion, robbery, sexual assault and other forms of aggravated assault occur. These crimes are carried out by criminals acting individually or as a group. A large percentage of the population in Honduras is armed. The country has one of the highest homicide rates in the world. The government of Honduras lacks sufficient resources to properly respond to, investigate and prosecute cases. As a result, criminals linked to organized crime operate with a high degree of impunity throughout Honduras.
- Remain aware of your surroundings at all times
- Be cautious when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances and be extremely careful when accepting rides or invitations
- Avoid walking or travelling alone and after dark
Gracias a Dios
The department of Gracias a Dios is a remote area with high levels of criminal activity and drug trafficking. Law enforcement is limited in this area, and there is minimal access to government services.
Chamelecón, Choloma and Cofradía in the Cortés department
Murder rates in the Cortés municipalities of Chamelecón, Choloma and Cofradía are very high. Several street-level criminal groups operate in these areas.
Armed Robbery
Incidents of armed robbery occur mainly on urban streets during the day and on intercity buses at night. Guns and other weapons, such as machetes and knives, are frequently used. Although most criminals do not target tourists, some travellers have been victims of crime in major cities and in areas frequented by tourists especially at night. On Roatán Island, robbers have targeted homes and long-term leased residences. Since 2009, four Canadian citizens have been murdered in the Bay Islands.
- If you are threatened by robbers, do not resist; injuries and deaths have occurred when victims have resisted
- Use discretion when discussing your travel plans in public
- Avoid Coxen Hole, particularly Los Fuertes and Suampo neighbourhood after dark
Narcotics smuggling and violence pose threats to the security of travellers in the northern departments of Colón, Gracias a Dios and Olancho. In Colón, there have also been incidents involving roadblocks and violence related to land disputes, particularly in the Aguán valley and in the north coast area near Trujillo. Remain alert to local conditions and maintain a high level of personal security awareness in these areas.
Assault
Foreigners have been assaulted on beaches in the Bay Islands and along the Atlantic Coast, mainly at night.
- In resort areas, stay on supervised, populated beaches and avoid isolated areas
- Whenever possible, walk in a group; attacks on tourists walking alone have occurred
- Campers should always stay in well-lit campgrounds that have security patrols
Petty Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Credit card skimming is also a concern.
- Be highly vigilant at all times, including in the vicinity of hotels, airports, bus terminals, shopping malls and other public places
- Do not display signs of affluence, such as jewellery, watches, cameras, phones, cash and bank or credit cards
- Ensure that your belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
- Carry photocopies of your travel documents, and leave the originals in a secure hotel safe
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Borders
Exercise caution at borders, particularly the border crossing with Guatemala (Agua Caliente). There has been an increased number of migrants leaving Honduras through Guatemala. As a result of this movement, this border is subject to periodic closures. There have also been incidents of foreigners being attacked by armed robbers after crossing the border into El Salvador.
Demonstrations and strikes
Demonstrations and strikes take place regularly and are often unexpected. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time and can sometimes lead to looting. They can also lead to lengthy disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Protesters often use petrol bombs. Police have been known to use tear gas and other tactics including live ammunition to disperse crowds.
In April of 2019, hundreds of people were evacuated from buildings in Tegucigalpa after they were set on fire during a clash between riot police and protesters. This followed a series of reforms to the country’s education and health laws.
In Tegucigalpa, demonstrations are known to target:
- the National Congress/ Central Park
- the National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH)
- Boulevard Suyapa
- Boulevard Centroamerica
- the United States Embassy
Demonstrations often transit along Centroamerica Boulevard, La Paz and Los Próceres avenues, and Suyapa Boulevard.
Vehicle demonstrations in Tegucigalpa generally move along the Peripheral Ring Road. In San Pedro Sula, protesters gather at the monument to the mother (Monumento a la Madre). Anti-corruption demonstrations occasionally take place on Fridays in Tegucigalpa.
The Honduran constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners.
- Do not participate in political discussions or activities in public, as doing so could lead to arrest or even deportation
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
- Ensure you have a full tank of gasoline and other supplies whenever travelling given potential traffic disruptions
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Spiked food and drinks
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
Cruises
The ports on Roatán Island are cruise-ship stops. Taxis can be found inside the port facilities; taxis are white and every taxi driver carries an ID card with the name of the port.
- Book tours and sightseeing trips through reputable tour companies
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is strongly discouraged throughout Honduras.
Rental Cars
The number of traffic accidents involving tourists has increased.
- Avoid renting cars and motorcycles from operators who do not provide insurance
- Ensure that helmets meet international safety standards
- Do not rent motorcycles in Roatán as the road conditions are poor
Recreational activities
When planning water activities:
- monitor weather warnings
- follow the instructions provided by local authorities
- only undertake scuba diving and other adventure sports with a well-established company
- refrain from using any equipment if you have any doubt concerning its safety
- ensure you have adequate insurance coverage for recreational activities
Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.
Scams
Thieves pose as victims of road accidents.
- Do not stop to help a person at the side of the road
- Be cautious when approached by police, as gang members and criminals sometimes disguise themselves as police officers
- Report any suspicious incidents at the next police point or call 911
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.
Landmines
Landmines pose a threat to travellers. Though no incidents have been reported since 2012, travellers should:
- exercise caution along the Honduras–Nicaragua border, especially in the Río Coco region, the Choluteca and El Paraíso departments and near the Atlantic coast
- travel only on major thoroughfares and through authorized border crossings
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Accidents causing fatalities are common, and drivers do not respect traffic laws. Vehicles can also be in very poor condition, with broken headlights. Many roads are poorly delineated and not well-lit. Heavy rains, floods, landslides and bridge collapses have damaged many roads, including on Roatán Island.
- Maintain a heightened awareness along all routes
- Plan to travel within daylight hours and allow for possible traffic delays, which can be caused by slow moving, overloaded trucks or vehicles with poorly secured cargo
- Drive with windows closed and doors locked at all times
- Carry a cell phone in case of emergency
At roadblocks, verify that there is a police vehicle and green cones. At least five police officers should be present. If you have any doubts, call 911 to confirm the location of the roadblocks and the identity of the individuals stopping you before you roll down your window or open your door.
There is often heavy traffic volume in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa.
In Roatán, avoid driving on side roads in remote areas.
Use caution between:
- El Progreso and La Ceiba due to animal crossings and poorly maintained bridges
- Chamelecón and Copán via Cofradía
- Copán and Gracias Lempira due to winding and poorly maintained mountain roads
- Limones to La Union due to threat of violence
- Olancho to Saba via Salama due to threat of violence
- Gualaco to San Esteban due to threat of violence
Public transportation
Buses
Most urban public buses are poorly maintained and erratically driven. Accidents are common. There are regular incidents of individuals boarding a bus to rob the passengers. Several buses have been intentionally set on fire since 2013. There have also been numerous shootings on public buses.
Avoid intercity public transportation due to the risk of armed robbery. If necessary, use companies that have direct, non-stop executive service from your place of departure to your destination. Never travel on intercity buses at night.
Taxis
Taxis are a reliable source for transportation.
- Use a reliable taxi company recommended by a major hotel chain and negotiate the fare in advance
- Do not board taxis at taxi stands or flag taxis in the street.
- Do not use shared taxis. Individuals travelling in shared taxis are regularly assaulted and robbed by thieves posing as occupants.
- Note the driver’s name and license number.
- Ensure that the driver does not pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
- Ensure that you have small bills available for payment, as taxi drivers often do not make change.
When travelling to the airport, pre-arrange your pickup with your hotel prior to your departure. Otherwise, make sure to use authorized airport taxis whose drivers wear easily identifiable picture identification badges.
Marine transportation
Marine accidents
It can be costly to repair the damage caused by an accident, particularly if it caused environmental damage to the surrounding waters and coral reefs. It is strongly recommended that sailors hold valid travel insurance as well as updated nautical charts in order to prevent boat accidents and security issues.
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in the area off the northeast coast of Honduras. These are often perpetrated by criminals posing as fishermen. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre
Security forces
Police response to criminal incidents may be limited and delayed, and the Honduran police do not generally speak English or French.
There are tourist police forces in Tegucigalpa, Roatán, La Ceiba, Tela, Choluteca, San Lorenzo, Copán, Gracias and San Pedro Sula.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Honduran authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid at least 6 months from the date of entry.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: Not required for stays up to 30 days
Student visa: Required
Travellers intending to study in Honduras can apply to the immigration authorities for a student permit once they have arrived in the country.
Upon arrival, verify that your passport has been duly stamped and take note of the maximum length of your approved stay. The length of your stay is a matter of immigration authorities’ discretion; therefore you are not guaranteed a stay of 90 days. Travellers who fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Honduras will incur fines and possible delays.
Border crossing
A fee of US$3 or (or lempira equivalent) is charged upon arrival from any land border. It is payable at the immigration office in cash only. Note that the “El Florido” border crossing with Guatemala in the town of Copan is closed from 9 pm to 6 am.
- Use official border crossings only and deal exclusively with state border officials
- Avoid dealing with anyone suggesting that they can obtain your documents more quickly or cheaper on your behalf
- Cross borders in the morning, as crossings sometimes close unexpectedly early in the evening
- Keep the receipt of payment of the border fee until you leave the country
Central America Border Control Agreement
Under the terms of the Central America Border Control Agreement (CA-4), Canadian tourists may travel within any of the CA-4 countries (Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and El Salvador) for a period of up to 90 days without applying for an extension.
Travellers who exceed the 90-day limit can expect to pay a fine. An extension of up to 30 days is permitted. You must request this extension and pay the required fee to immigration authorities before the initial 90 days expire; the decision of an extension is at the discretion of immigration authorities. Please note that the initial visa period starts at the first country of entry. Stays are cumulative and includes visits to any CA-4 countries.
Departure tax
A departure tax of approximately US$47.59 (or lempira equivalent) is usually included in the price of your plane ticket for international flights. For domestic flights, the tax is US$2 (or lempira equivalent) and is payable in cash only.
Children and travel
Dual citizens and minors born in Canada should possess a valid passport. Honduran immigration entry and exit control laws consider that a person under 21 is a minor. If the minor is traveling unaccompanied or with one parent only, a written and notarized authorization to travel from the non-travelling parent(s) (or legal guardian(s)) must be submitted. If neither parent is traveling with the minor, both parents must sign the authorization. If you are coming from Canada, the written authorization should be translated and authenticated by Honduran authorities in Canada.
More about travelling with children
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - December 24, 2019
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Central America and Mexico, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Central America and Mexico. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Central America and Mexico, certain insects carry and spread diseases like American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease), chikungunya, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, malaria, onchocerciasis (river blindness), West Nile virus, and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue fever is a risk to travellers year-round. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, global numbers have been steeply rising again.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Zika Virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a health care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country.
Travel recommendations:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
- Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months after travel or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
- Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.
For more travel recommendations, see the travel health notice: Zika virus: Advice for travellers
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in Central America and Mexico, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
HIV
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Good health care is limited in availability. State funded facilities are understaffed and under-funded. There are some private hospitals in urban areas such as San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa and tourist areas such as the Bay Islands; however they are often limited and expensive. Major medical procedures and surgeries may require medical evacuation from the Bay Islands to a major centre.
Physicians and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for medical care. Credit cards are usually accepted.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and large fines.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Honduras.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Honduras, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Driving
You must carry an international driving permit.
Drivers involved in road accidents where another person is badly injured may be held in custody, regardless of culpability.
More about the International Driving Permit
Exports
Honduran law prohibits the export of firearms, antiques and artifacts from pre-colonial civilizations. It is also illegal to export certain birds, feathers and other flora and fauna.
Investments
If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Honduras, seek legal advice in Canada and in Honduras. Do so before making commitments. Real estate transactions, laws and practices can be complex and differ considerably from those in Canada
Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve. Many tourists have reported complications during a real estate transaction in Honduras.
- Choose your own lawyer or notary and avoid hiring the one recommended by the seller
- Go on site before buying a property to see what you’re buying
- Carefully review the sales contract as it may contain irregularities such as a contestation of title deeds
- Confirm the name of the last owner and verify that the property is free of any mortgage or taxes from the local property registry (Instituto de la propiedad)
- Consult a Honduran lawyer specializing in real estate law if you suspect fraud
Money
The currency is the lempira (HNL). You cannot exchange Canadian dollars in Honduras, although US dollars and travellers cheques are easily converted. It is best to travel with US dollars. A passport is required for all financial transactions; however, institutions accept a certified photocopy of the identification page. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Hurricane season
Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.
These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.
If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:
- know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
- Large-scale emergencies abroad
- Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings - United States’ National Hurricane Center
Rainy season
The rainy season extends from May to November. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads, including major highways, may become impassable and bridges damaged.
More about hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
Bush and Forest Fires
Bush and forest fires are common between December and April. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. In case of a major fire:
- stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
- follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
- monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
Earthquakes and volcanoes
Honduras is located in a moderately active seismic zone. Familiarize yourself with earthquake precautionary measures. Consult the
COPECO - Honduran disaster relief agency (in Spanish)
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Emergency services exist but may be subject to certain limitations. In case of emergency, dial 911.
Consular assistance
Tegucigalpa - Embassy of Canada (Program Office)
San José - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Honduras, in Tegucigalpa, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.