Complete Guide to Honduras: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts
The ultimate Complete Guide to Honduras: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts – home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, the stunning Bay Islands (Roatán, Utila, Guanaja), the magnificent Maya ruins of Copán, and one of the fastest-growing tourism and real estate markets in Central America in 2025.
Introduction to Honduras – Caribbean Paradise Meets Maya Heritage
Honduras (112,492 km², 10+ million people) boasts the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (second only to Australia’s), affordable island living, and the spectacular Copán archaeological site. Tourism grew 25%+ annually pre-pandemic and is now surging again. This Complete Guide to Honduras: Visa, Travel, Investment & Important Facts shows why Roatán and Utila are digital-nomad and retiree hotspots.
Honduras Independence Date: September 15, 1821
Celebrated with parades, traditional food, and fireworks across the country.
Visa Policy & CA-4 Agreement
90 days visa-free for over 100 countries (USA, EU, Canada, UK, Australia, etc.). CA-4 allows free movement between Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua with one entry stamp.
Residency & Investment Options
- Rentista – USD 1,500/month income
- Pensionado – USD 1,000/month pension
- Investor – from USD 50K (Roatán ZEDE offers fast-track residency)
Top Places to Visit in Honduras
- Roatán – West Bay, West End, scuba paradise
- Utila – cheapest diving in the Caribbean + whale sharks
- Copán Ruinas – best-preserved Maya stelae and hieroglyphs
- Cayos Cochinos – pristine cays and Garifuna culture
- La Ceiba & Pico Bonito National Park
- Lake Yojoa – birdwatching and craft beer
- Trujillo – Caribbean coast fortress town
How to Invest in Honduras
Roatán real estate booming (condos USD 150K–400K), Utila lots from USD 40K. Próspera ZEDE on Roatán offers low taxes and crypto-friendly regulations.
Economy Overview
GDP ≈ USD 35 billion, tourism and real estate growing fastest. Remittances 23% of GDP.
How to Buy SIM Card in Honduras
Tigo (best island coverage) or Claro – L50–100 starter packs at airports and everywhere. Strong LTE on Roatán and Utila.
Current President of Honduras
Xiomara Castro (LIBRE) – first female president, in office since January 2022.
Safety in 2025
Bay Islands extremely safe. Mainland tourist zones (Copán, La Ceiba, Lake Yojoa) have dedicated tourist police and low crime against visitors.
Aviation Services in Honduras
- Domestic flights: CM Airlines, Aerolíneas Sosa to Roatán, Utila, Guanaja, La Ceiba
- Private charters and scenic flights over Bay Islands
- Medevac services on Roatán
Climate & Practical Tips
Caribbean coast 26–32°C year-round. Currency: Lempira (HNL). English widely spoken on Bay Islands.