COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel

Do not travel to Chamelecón, Choloma, and Cofradía in the department of Cortés, and the Department of Gracias a Dios due to high levels of violent crime (level 4 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Honduras due to violent crime and the potential for civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

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Honduras

Violent crime
Honduras has a very high violent crime rate, with one of the highest homicide rates in the world. Other crime, such as robbery, carjacking, sexual assault and kidnapping is common and can take place anywhere, at any time of the day and often involves firearms. Other weapons, such as knives and machetes are also often used. Much of this crime is drug and gang-related and does not affect tourists but armed robbery and sexual assault of foreigners does occur. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is prevalent. Local law enforcement may not have sufficient resources to respond to crimes, including violent crime.

There have been reports of armed robbery and bus/carjackings on a number of routes, including on main highways, and of vehicles leaving airports. Exercise vigilance when leaving airports and always travel with doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight. Use a reputable transport company for intercity travel and avoid travel on public buses. Only use official border crossings and attempt to cross borders in the morning as they can close unexpectedly in the early evening.

New Zealanders in Honduras should remain vigilant, exercise a high degree of security awareness at all times, and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. The risk of crime increases after dark. We recommend you avoid travelling or walking alone at night, particularly in isolated areas, such as uninhabited beaches. Never hitchhike or take rides from strangers. There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and assault reported in Honduras. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices, cameras and jewellery. Take particular care using ATMs as foreigners have been attacked after withdrawing money. We recommend you only use ATMs during the day and located within shopping centres or banks.

No resistance should be given if you are the victim of crime as this could lead to an escalation in violence.

Local travel
Crime is a serious issue throughout the country but particularly so in remote areas and near the border with El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua. When travelling to remote areas, it may be safer to travel with others or in a group. 

The Bay Islands are generally safer than mainland Honduras, with crime rates being lower. However, petty crime is still common and incidents of violent crime do occur, including on the ferries to and from the mainland. Theft from homes and long-term rentals happen and assaults on foreigners at the beach after dark have occurred. In resort areas, stay on supervised, populated beaches and avoid isolated areas.

Civil unrest
Political gatherings, protests and demonstrations occur regularly in Honduras, some have turned violent in the past and resulted in looting, as well as deaths and injuries. Protestors sometimes attempt to block roads, which can lead to lengthy disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Police may use tear gas and/or water cannons to disperse demonstrations.

New Zealanders in Honduras are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent. Monitor the media and adhere to any restrictions and instructions issued by the local authorities. Participation by foreigners in political activity is illegal.

Unexploded munitions
There are unmarked minefields near the Honduras-Nicaragua border, especially in the Rio Coco region, the Choluteca and El Paraiso provinces and in the area near the Atlantic Coast. We advise you not to stray off well-used roads and paths.  

Transport safety
Avoid using public transportation due to safety concerns. Vehicles are often poorly maintained and drivers untrained. Taxis flagged on the street may not be safe, use airport taxis or prebook with a reputable company. Major hotel chains may be able to recommend a reliable taxi company. 

Criminals posing as fisherman have carried out armed attacks on private vessels at sea.

General travel advice
New Zealanders travelling or living in Honduras should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

Hurricane season typically runs from June to November and can coincide with heavy rains. In these instances, landslides, flooding, and disruptions to essential services can occur. See our advice on what to do in the event of a hurricane here.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

New Zealanders in Honduras are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

See our regional advice for Central/South America