Share the article
Last updated
When it comes to travelers looking to take amazing trips in Latin America, there are so many great countries to choose from.
Stretching across North America, the Caribbean and South America, it has iconic cities, world-famous beaches and historic ruins within easy reach.
That said, a lesser-known country tends to fly under the radar unless you’re an adventurous backpacker going against the grain.
While Costa Rica and El Salvador emphasize Central America, one of their neighbors is wrongly considered a danger zone for travelers.
Safety is one of the most fickle topics to discuss when traveling, as there are bad apples everywhere that can drag a destination’s reputation into the sand.
Home to fascinating ruins and beautiful islands, Honduras is a misunderstood destination that is definitely worth a visit.
An affordable country full of wonder
Travelers may feel the need to learn Spanish when traveling to Central America, and sometimes they do.
Belize is the only English-speaking country in the region, yet American travelers will appreciate a unique aspect of Honduras.
That is, US dollars are widely accepted, even though the Lempira is the official currency.
Despite using George Washingtons and Abe Lincolns, travelers don’t have to worry about their travel budget.
Transportation can be expensive, but all other facets of your trip are inexpensive, including luxury hotels in major cities and the beautiful island of Roatan, along with cozy boutique hotels and rentals near historic ruins.
Where you have to keep your head on a dial
Honduras is extremely diverse, making it attractive to explore, but many travelers hesitate to come here due to its sketchy reputation.
Unless you’re arriving by cruise, chances are you’ll land at San Pedro Sula or the country’s newest international airport (XPL) outside Tegucigalpa, the country’s two largest cities.
Unfortunately, big cities are associated with higher crime rates, and Honduras is no different.
In fact, this is the place where tourists are most likely to become victims of crime, along with the Gracias a Dios Department, which is listed by the US Department of State.Level 3‘designation for Honduras.
In all likelihood, you would not visit this region at all as it is hidden away from all the major attractions.
The other two cities, on the other hand, can be navigated safely if you plan it well. First of all, reliable transportation is a must.
If there’s one thing American travelers love to use, it’s Uber, which is available in both major cities and will take you to an affordable luxury hotel as a safe haven, such as Hyatt’s, Hilton’s and Marriott’s.
From here, the best way to explore Honduras is to head to the island of Roatan or to the fascinating department of Copan, home to well-preserved Mayan ruins and picturesque villages.
Roatan: Honduras’ underrated paradise
Roatán is often visited on cruise itineraries because travelers never have to reach mainland Honduras.
You can fly directly to Roatan or take the adventure route from San Pedro Sula to experience more of Honduras and take a ferry from La Ceiba.
This Caribbean island is often overshadowed because “Honduras” can be a trigger word to avoid the area, but if there’s one place where you’ll feel 100% safe, it’s Roatan.
The top dog from Honduras 99 islandsthis is the most equipped for holidaymakers with Utila second.
Lined with vacation rentals, boutique hotels and of course all inclusive resorts, Roatan is one of the most underrated vacation destinations in the Caribbean.
It’s not just the picture-perfect blue waters that are appealing; Don’t miss fun jungle wildlife tours such as sloth and monkey sanctuaries.
Copan: the hidden gem of Honduras full of history
Another safe destination in Honduras is Copan, but at the opposite end of the spectrum compared to Roatan.
No islands or luxury resorts, but still a magnet with incredible Mayan ruins, charming villages and cheap places to stay low as $15.
Away from the bustling towns of Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, this is the quieter side of the country where you can enjoy natural landscapes, busy historic sites and beautiful cobbled streets for a sense of tranquility. Real Honduras.
The Mayan ruins are undoubtedly the star attraction and are quite well preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Some experts even go so far as to consider Copan the “Paris of the Mayan world.”
✈️Join our Travel Off Path community forum: Where travelers come together, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel companions!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
