When travelers are looking for amazing trips in Latin America, there are so many incredible countries to choose from. Spanning North America, the Caribbean, and South America, you have iconic cities, world-famous beaches, and historic ruins at your fingertips. However, one lesser-known country often goes unnoticed unless you’re an adventurous backpacker looking for something different. While Costa Rica and El Salvador are popular in Central America, one of their neighbors is mistakenly considered a danger zone for travelers. Safety can be a tricky topic in travel since there are always a few bad apples that can tarnish a destination’s reputation. Honduras, with its fascinating ruins and stunning islands, is a misunderstood destination that’s definitely worth a visit.
An Affordable Country Filled With Wonder
Travelers might feel the need to learn Spanish when visiting Central America, and sometimes that’s true. Belize is the only English-speaking country in the region, but American travelers will appreciate a unique aspect of Honduras: U.S. dollars are widely accepted, even though the official currency is the Lempira. Despite using U.S. currency, travelers don’t need to worry about blowing their budget. While transportation can be pricey, other aspects of your trip, including luxurious hotels in major cities and the beautiful island of Roatan, as well as cozy boutique hotels and rentals near historic ruins, won’t break the bank.
Where To Keep Your Head On A Swivel
Honduras is extremely diverse and enticing to explore, but many travelers are hesitant to visit because of its sketchy reputation. Unless you’re arriving by cruise, you’ll likely land in either San Pedro Sula or the country’s newest international airport (XPL) outside of Tegucigalpa, the two largest cities. Unfortunately, large cities often come with higher crime rates, and Honduras is no exception. These are the places where tourists are most likely to encounter crime, along with the Gracias a Dios Department, which is listed in the U.S. State Department’s ‘Level 3‘ designation for Honduras. However, you probably wouldn’t visit this region as it’s far from major attractions. The two cities, on the other hand, can be navigated safely with proper planning. Reliable transportation is essential, and U.S. travelers will be happy to know that Uber is available in both major cities, providing a safe way to get to affordable high-end hotels like Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott. From there, the best way to explore Honduras is to head to either the island of Roatan or the captivating Department of Copan, home to well-preserved Mayan ruins and picturesque villages.
Roatan: Honduras’s Underrated Paradise
Roatan is a popular stop on cruise routes, allowing travelers to avoid mainland Honduras. You can fly directly into Roatan or take an adventurous route from San Pedro Sula and catch a ferry from La Ceiba. This Caribbean island is often overlooked because “Honduras” can be a trigger word for some, but if there’s anywhere you’ll feel completely safe, it’s Roatan. The top destination among Honduras’s 99 islands, Roatan is well-equipped for vacationers, with Utila as a close second. With vacation rentals, boutique hotels, and all-inclusive resorts, Roatan is one of the most underrated vacation spots in the Caribbean. It’s not just the picture-perfect blue waters that attract visitors; don’t miss out on fun wildlife tours in the jungle, such as sloth and monkey sanctuaries.
Copan: Honduras’s Hidden Gem Packed With History
Another safe destination in Honduras is Copan, which offers a different experience compared to Roatan. There are no islands or fancy resorts, but it still draws visitors with its incredible Mayan ruins, charming villages, and affordable accommodations as low as $15. Away from the bustling cities of Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, this quieter side of the country offers natural landscapes, rich historical sites, and delightful cobbled streets that give you a sense of the real Honduras. The Mayan ruins are the top attraction and are well-preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some experts even call Copan the ‘Paris of the Mayan world’.