Let me introduce you to the security situation in Honduras, a country in Central and South America. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Overseas Safety Information, Honduras has a safety risk level of 1 to 2 on a four-level scale, meaning overall security is not good. Furthermore, two-thirds of the entire country, especially the capital Tegucigalpa, have very poor security and are designated as risk level 2. Gangs and drug traffickers gather there, resulting in an extremely high crime rate.
Other than the Copán Ruins and Roatán Island in the Caribbean Sea, there aren't many tourist spots. So, it’s wise not to stay long in Honduras and to leave the country while it's still daylight. Before traveling, make sure to check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website for the latest safety information on Honduras.
1. Beware of pickpocketing and theft
The long-distance bus terminals, one of the means of transportation in Honduras, are not very safe. Criminals usually work in groups, looking for potential targets. Make sure not to leave your luggage unattended at your feet; always keep it in your hands or in contact with a part of your body. One person might distract you by starting a conversation, while another picks your pocket.
When traveling by long-distance bus within Honduras, be sure to use first-class buses, where security measures are more thorough. On first-class buses, your luggage gets tagged, and you cannot retrieve it without presenting the matching claim ticket. Second-class buses, on the other hand, make frequent stops in dangerous areas, operate on a self-service system, and make it easy for thieves to steal others’ belongings.
2. Beware of snatching and theft in downtown and entertainment districts
The security situation in downtown areas and entertainment districts of Honduran cities is very poor. There are cases of robbers squirting ketchup-like substances on people’s clothes, pretending to help clean them while stealing their belongings. If a stranger in Honduras tells you, “Your clothes are dirty,” ignore them and check your clothes in a safe place later.
There are also common scams where people claim, “I lost my wallet. Can you lend me some money?” Moreover, when you’re stopped at bus stops or intersections, someone from a moving vehicle may reach out and snatch your valuables. Be especially cautious after dark, and watch out for cars and motorcycles passing close by. In Honduras, you can still be attacked even if there are people around.
3. Be extremely cautious when using taxis
The airports and bus terminals in Honduras are all extremely unsafe, and many illegal (unlicensed) taxis operate there. These are very dangerous, so you must never take them. Generally, taxis in Honduras do not have meters and require fare negotiation. It’s common for drivers to quote high prices, so it’s a good idea to ask several taxis to get an idea of the going rate.
There are also “radio taxis,” which are safer but need to be booked by phone. They are more expensive than regular taxis, but choosing safety is the wiser option. In general, it’s best to avoid using public buses in Honduras because of the poor security situation. In recent years, traffic congestion has become chronic in urban areas, and driving manners are worse. Many vehicles ignore traffic rules, so be careful.
4. Do Not Get Involved in Fights or Drugs
In many of Honduras’ cities, there are impoverished areas where fights involving drunk people and conflicts over drugs frequently occur. First and foremost, stay away from such dangerous areas. If you happen to encounter a situation like this, leave the area immediately to avoid getting involved. Even within city limits, there are vacant lots, abandoned buildings, and parking areas near entertainment districts where people can be dragged and assaulted. These are places to avoid.
Honduras serves as a transit point for South American drugs en route to North America. Because of the large quantities of drugs flowing into the country, crimes related to drugs (such as impulsive robberies and murders committed to obtain money for drugs) are a serious security issue. Recently, drug dealing aimed at foreigners has even been reported in some resort areas. It’s best to stay away from anyone who seems to be a dealer.
5. Escape Immediately If You Are in Danger!
Although Honduras is not known to have terrorist organizations like Islamic extremist groups, this doesn’t mean that other foreigners are completely safe from terrorism, kidnapping, or other crimes. There have been cases of kidnappings for ransom, so constant vigilance is necessary.
Stay updated on the latest security situation. In Honduras, where safety is a concern, always take appropriate security measures to avoid being caught in unexpected incidents like kidnappings, threats, or terrorism.
◎ Summary
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, most areas and cities in Honduras are classified as Danger Level 2: “Avoid non-essential travel.” Other areas are rated Danger Level 1: “Exercise caution.” Even in tourist areas such as the Copán Mayan Ruins, the diving resorts in La Ceiba, and Roatán Island, incidents like robberies, theft, and bag snatching still occur. Always be cautious.