Safety and security

Local authorities periodically declare a state of emergency in various municipalities to fight against gang-related crime and extortion. One such measure was announced nationwide in December 2022 for 30 days by the national government, and continues to be applied in a range of municipalities. Visitors to the country should research their destinations thoroughly before undertaking travel to the country to see if a state of emergency is in place.

Under the State of Exception additional patrols and security checkpoints have been implemented. Enhanced security can be expected in urban centres where criminal gangs have a wider presence, such as Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Choloma (Cortes), La Ceiba and Tela (both Atlantida department), as well as border areas. During this time there may be restrictions on freedom of movement and other rights in the affected municipalities. You must carry a valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints; allow extra time to reach your destination; monitor local media for updates and information on the current situation and restrictions in specific municipalities. Avoid crowds or demonstrations. Always cooperate with military and police officers.

Political Situation

The political can be unpredictable in Honduras, and while protests are normally peaceful, they can turn rapidly violent. If you are travelling in Honduras, you should remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings. In the event of any unrest, you should follow the advice and instructions of the local authorities, monitor local news channels and be prepared to amend your travel plans accordingly. All Irish citizens should avoid participation situation in political discussions or protests online or offline.  The Honduran Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners, and may detain and deport them for such activity. 

Crime

There are high levels of crime in Honduras, and the security situation poses a risk for foreigners. You should therefore make sure you research your destination thoroughly, and take all the necessary precautions in all parts of Honduras. Some precautions include:

• Ensure you are fully confident in your security, communications, transport and accommodation arrangements
• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place. 
• Leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don’t use ATMs after dark, especially if you’re alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.
• Avoid travelling alone, particularly in remote areas.

Travellers should avoid walking in cities and towns across mainland Honduras including Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula and la Ceiba. Be particularly careful at bus stations, airports, isolated beaches, tourist sites and on public transport.

Violent crime doesn’t usually target business travellers and foreign nationals directly. However, shoot-outs between gang members and the security forces in public places can pose significant incidental risk to bystanders.

Petty theft

Petty theft is a problem in cities and tourist areas, including the Bay Islands (Roatan, Utila and Guanaja). Be particularly careful of your belongings at bus stations, airports, isolated beaches, tourist sites, and on public transport. Keep your valuables locked away in a safe or keep them on your person when travelling.

Serious crime

Violent crime and taxi-muggings are common in Honduras. Be cautious when using public transport, including taxis, and make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Always be particularly careful after nightfall.

Reporting crime

If you are a victim of a crime while in Honduras, you should report it to the local police. You can also contact the Irish Embassy in Mexico on +52 55 5520 5803.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local travel

Take care travelling in Honduras as there have been reports of violent attacks on cars and buses. Particular care should be taken if travelling on microbuses (‘colectivos’) in large cities such as Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula for security reasons. Travelling on major roads between large towns/cities is safer than travelling on more remote routes. Don’t travel between towns/cities after dark as you greatly increase the risk of attack.

Border Crossings

Exercise extreme caution near the borders with Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua given the elevated risk of crime. Travellers should cross borders in the morning as they sometimes close in the early evening or remain unmanned at nights. It also allows time for you to reach your destination before dark. Visitors should avoid dealing with anyone suggesting that they can obtain your documents more quickly or more cheaply. Border fee crossings are US$3, or its equivalent in lempira, and the receipt should be retained. There are unmarked minefields in/around the border with Nicaragua. Take care and avoid walking on unmarked paths or off main roads in these areas.

Hurricane season

The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from July to October. You should pay close attention to local and international weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Always monitor local and international weather updates for the region by accessing, for example, the Weather Channel, or the US National Hurricane Centre website.

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Personal identification

You should carry personal identification with you at all times in Honduras.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms.

Homosexuality is not illegal in Honduras, but there is also no recognition of same-sex marriage in Honduras. Public displays of affection by same-sex couples may draw unwanted attention, particularly outside of the capital, and travellers should exercise caution in this regard.

Health

Vaccinations

Take all relevant precautions in relation to Covid-19. Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for this country and consult them on any other health related concerns.

Mosquito-borne diseases

There may be a risk of Zika virus in Honduras. Irish citizens especially those with a weakened immune system or women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).  

Dengue fever epidemics occur every four to five years in Honduras, and Malaria is common in remote, low-lying parts of the country.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Entry requirements

Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Honduras.

A valid passport is required for travel to Honduras. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months. Passport cards cannot be used.

All passengers are required to pre-register online with Honduran Immigration authorities here prior to arrival and departure, and bring a copy of the form with them when travelling. However, there have been reports of technical issues with the pre-registration. If, after trying alternative browsers, you are still unable to register, please contact your nearest Honduran Embassy/Consulate, as well as your airline. You can also call the migration authorities on +504 2232 7800 or email sugerencias@inm.gob.hn

Visitors should note that Honduras is party to the Central America Border Control Agreement (CA-4) signed between Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and El Salvador. Upon arriving in any of the CA-4 countries, visitors may travel to the other three member states, and stay for up to 90 days within the CA-4 region, without undergoing any entry and exit formalities. This period begins at the first point of entry in to any of the CA-4 countries. Fines are applied for travellers who exceed this 90-day limit, though a request for a 30-day extension can be made before the 90 days limit expires.

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, and the receipt should be retained until you have left the country. For more information on land borders, please consult our safety and security section.

Exit taxes

There is a US$48.44 (or Lempira equivalent) airport departure tax which should be included in the price of the ticket (if not, be prepared to pay this in cash or with a credit card).

There is also an airport departure tax for domestic flights of 54.13 Lempiras (or the equivalent in US dollars). For more information, check the Honduras Airports website.