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TRAVEL REPORT
Honduras

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 2 has been updated (elections)

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Honduras

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Honduras, with the exception of the Bay Islands, where Canadians should continue to exercise a high degree of caution.

President Manuel Zelaya was forced to leave the country by the Honduran military on June 28, 2009, the same day a controversial referendum was scheduled to occur. A provisional president was appointed by the Congress shortly thereafter. On September 21, 2009, President Zelaya re-entered the country, and the situation remains extremely unpredictable.

Violence linked to the unstable political situation has been reported throughout the country, ranging from acts of vandalism to clashes with police and even the planting and detonation of small explosive devices. Foreigners have not been specifically targeted; however, travellers should still be aware of their surroundings at all times and exercise extreme caution when travelling in and through Honduras.

Presidential elections are scheduled to take place on November 29. Demonstrations are expected during the period leading up to, during and following the election. Certain groups have also announced their intentions to disrupt the electoral process through the incitement of violence. Canadians are advised to remain in their residences on Election Day, and restrict their movements in the days preceding it.

A curfew may be imposed on short notice. The hours of the curfew may vary and restrictions may be placed on civil liberties during curfew hours. Travellers are strongly advised to keep informed of the latest hours and status of a possible curfew.

Canadians should monitor local news reports and keep themselves informed on possible road blocks and political developments. Travellers should also avoid large crowds and all demonstrations, as they may become violent and have solicited armed response from security forces. Canadians residing in and around the capital of Tegucigalpa should exercise extreme caution, avoid travelling in the city or surrounding areas and carefully plan any trips outside their residence.



Furthermore, Armed Forces and police presence has been increased in front of government buildings and police checkpoints have been set up on the main roads into Tegucigalpa.

Travellers planning to travel to or from Honduras should verify their travel plans with their travel agent, airline or the airport authority prior to travel.

The hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. For more information, please see our Global Issue on the hurricane season.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Crime
 
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is prevalent. Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution at all times, including in the vicinity of hotels, in airports, bus terminals, shopping malls and other public places. Do not display signs of affluence, such as valuables (including cameras and cellular phones), cash and bank or credit cards. Remain alert to your surroundings after using Automated Banking Machines (ABMs), and avoid carrying large sums of money. Avoid walking or travelling alone or after dark, and ensure personal belongings and documents are secure. It is recommended to carry photocopies of your travel documents while leaving the original in the hotel safe.  Travellers should consult the Honduras Institute of Tourism website for current information.

Serious crime including armed robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and sexual assault, is also common. Foreign tourists are often targeted by criminals in and around San Pedro Sula (including in vehicles leaving the airport), on the ferry from La Ceiba to the Bay Islands, in Tela, Trujillo, Tegucigalpa and Goascorán

A large percentage of the population is armed. Do not resist robberies as perpetrators may use violence.

Assaults occurred after travellers were followed. As a precautionary measure, use discretion when discussing your travel plans in public. Travellers should also exercise caution in dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, and be extremely careful about accepting rides or invitations. As incidents of sexual assault sometimes involve the use of sedative drugs, travellers should avoid leaving their drinks or food unattended in bars and places of entertainment. In resort areas, stay on supervised beaches and do not walk in isolated or unpopulated areas. Hitchhiking is strongly discouraged. Campers should always ensure that facilities are patrolled and well lit.

Robberies and bus/carjackings occur along Honduran highways. Intercity public transportation should be avoided, especially on the road from Limones to La Unión and in the Sula valley in northern Honduras. Armed gangs frequently perpetrate robberies along the road from La Esperanza to Gracias (CA-11a), as well as on Route 41 in Olancho around Salamá and northward to Saba. Route 39 between Gualaco and San Esteban is also dangerous and should be avoided. Remain alert en route to El Progreso, Tela, Trujillo, La Ceiba, and on the road through Santa Barbara.

Do not stop to attend to a body on the roadside; report it to the next police point instead. Incidents occurred where thieves have posed as victims of road accidents. Drive with windows closed and doors locked at all times. At roadblocks, drivers should establish the identity of the individuals stopping them before rolling down the window or opening the door.

Narcotics smuggling and violence pose threats to the security of travellers in the northern Departments of Olancho, Colon and Gracias a Dios. You should also exercise caution at the border areas with Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua and use official border points only.

The emergency number for local police is 199. Police response to criminal incidents may be limited and delayed. The Honduran police generally do not speak English or French. There are tourist police in Tegucigalpa, Roatan, La Ceiba, Copan, Tela and San Pedro Sula.

Civil Unrest

Occasional demonstrations and strikes addressing various grievances occur in the capital and in other cities, and might cause traffic disruptions. Demonstrations on the island of Roatan are frequent and have resulted in the closure of Roatan Island International Airport. As a precautionary measure, Canadians should be alert, exercise caution, avoid large crowds and keep themselves informed on possible road blocks. Periodic violence may occur on the streets as a result of protests.

Landmines

Unmarked landmine fields are located on both sides of the Honduras-Nicaragua border, especially in the Rio Coco region, the Choluteca and El Paraiso provinces, and in the area near the Atlantic Coast. Although significant progress was made in clearing these areas, landslides and floods have scattered many of the remaining mines, making the border area unsafe. Extreme caution is advised if travelling in this area. Confine travel to major thoroughfares and border crossings, such as El Espino (La Fraternidad), Las Manos, and Guasaule. To avoid possible excessive charges at land border crossings, travellers should ascertain the correct fees from the embassy or consulate of each country they plan to visit.

Sea Travel

The area off the northeast coast of Honduras has been the subject of maritime border disputes between Honduras and Nicaragua. The Honduran Navy has increased its patrols in this area. All transiting private vessels may be hailed and possibly boarded by Honduran military personnel for document verification.

In the same area, armed assaults against private vessels have been perpetrated by criminals posing as fishermen. Sailors should contact local authorities for current information.

Adventure Sports

Sea diving and other adventure sports should only be undertaken with a well-established company. If you have any doubt concerning the security of the installations or equipment, we strongly recommend that you refrain from using them.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of Honduras. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Honduras or its consulates for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Honduras. The passport has to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country.

Canadian tourists may travel within any of the C-4 countries (Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala) for a 90 day period. The 90 days begins at the first point of entry of any of the C-4 countries. Fines are applied for travellers who exceed this 90 day limit although a request for an extension can be made for up to 30 days by paying a fee before the 90 days limit expires.

Minors under the age of 21 who hold dual citizenship or are residents of Honduras, departing the country alone or with only one parent, are required to present a legally certified document stating that both parents (if travelling alone) or the parent remaining in the country (if travelling with only one parent) agree to their travel.

Tourist Visa: Not required (for stays up to 90 days)
Business Visa: Not required (for stays up to 30 days)
Student Visa: Not required

Travellers intending to study in Honduras can apply for a student permit with the Immigration authorities once arrived in the country.

Travellers are required to carry evidence of yellow fever vaccination when arriving from infected countries. Please contact the Embassy of the Republic of Honduras in Ottawa for details.

A departure tax of approximately US$30 is required for all international flights.

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Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Honduras - TEGUCIGALPA, Embassy of Canada (Program Office)
Address: Centro Financiero Banexpo, 3rd Floor, Boulevard San Juan Bosco, Colonia Payaquí, Tegucigalpa
Postal Address: P.O. Box 3552, Tegucigalpa,
Tel.: (504) 232-4551
Fax: (504) 239-7767
E-Mail: tglpa@international.gc.ca

The Embassy of Canada in San José, Costa Rica, has overall consular responsibility for Honduras.

Costa Rica - SAN JOSÉ, Embassy of Canada
Address: La Sabana Executive Business Centre, Building No. 5, 3rd Floor, behind the Contraloría General de la República, San José
Postal Address: P.O. Box 351-1007, San José,
Tel.: 506 2242-4400
Fax: 506 2242-4410
E-Mail: sjcra@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.costarica.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, contact the Office of the Canadian Embassy in Tegucigalpa and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

As in many other areas of Central America, Latin America and the Caribbean, travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves against water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever. For information and recommendations, see the Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) Website.

As the level of HIV/AIDS infection in Honduras is high, you should be cautious about activities involving the transmission of bodily fluids.

Flooding can cause sewage systems to overflow and rivers to become contaminated. Tap water should be boiled or chemically treated. Safe bottled water is widely available.

Private hospitals and clinics in the city (including Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula) are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities.

Physicians and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for medical care. Credit cards are accepted.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

The government of Honduras recognizes dual nationality. Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times.

Honduran law prohibits the export of firearms, antiques, and artefacts from pre-colonial civilizations. It is also illegal to export certain birds, feathers, and other flora and fauna.

Canadians interested in purchasing property or making other investments should seek legal advice from appropriate professionals in Canada and Honduras before making commitments. Disputes arising from such activities could be prolonged and costly to resolve.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Many roads have been damaged by heavy rains, flooding, landslides, and bridge collapses. Roads are often poorly marked and lit. Avoid driving after dusk, as vehicles often travel on roadways without proper lighting. Animals and pedestrians are common on roads after dark. Traffic accidents are a common cause of death and injury. Drivers involved in road accidents where another person is badly injured may be held in custody, regardless of culpability.
 
The most dangerous stretches for road travel are from Tegucigalpa to Choluteca (mountain curves); from El Progreso to La Ceiba (animal crossings and the poorly maintained bridges); and from Tegucigalpa to Copan (mountain curves and poor road conditions). A cellular phone should be carried in case of emergency.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

Most urban public buses are poorly maintained and erratically driven. Accidents are common. It is recommended to use buses operated by private companies.

It is advisable to use taxis from a reputable taxi service and to note the driver's name and license number. Travellers should arrange with the driver not to pick up any other passengers on the way to their destination, and agree on the fare in advance.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the lempira (HNL). Canadian dollars cannot be exchanged into lempiras in Honduras. U.S. dollars and traveller’s cheques are easily converted. Although a passport is required for all financial transactions, a certified photocopy of your identification page should suffice.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. You are advised to visit the Web site of the National Hurricane Center for information on weather conditions.

The rainy season extends from May to October. Major highways are often closed due to rockslides and flooding during this period. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly. During the dry season (from November to April), widespread forest fires often cause severe air pollution, which can lead to respiratory problems.
 
Honduras is located in an active seismic zone. Visitors should familiarize themselves with earthquake precautionary measures. Canadians should also know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Tegucigalpa, and of the Embassy of Canada in San José, Costa Rica in the event of an emergency.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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