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Lots of scams

Central America

Tourist scams in Honduras

The main risks in Honduras are robbery and theft, with common robberies on public buses and street crime in several cities. Travellers may also face inflated taxi quotes, poor border exchange rates, hard-luck scams and drugging followed by theft. Take extra care after dark, near tourist hotels and in busy markets.
  1. 1 Buses and trainsCommonPublic bus robberyRobbers target people travelling on public buses. Cash and valuables may be taken.Public buses throughout Honduras 3Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonStreet robbery and ambushes near hotelsThieves watch for travellers outside hotels or rob people walking on the street. Robberies also happen during daylight in some areas.Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba 2Read
  3. 3 TheftCommonCar break-insThieves break into parked cars. Daylight and a busy setting do not guarantee protection.Tegucigalpa 1Read
  4. 4 TaxisCommonInflated taxi quotesDrivers may quote foreign visitors a high fare. Rides booked through apps are described as often costing about half the regular taxi quote. Higher fares at night or for more passengers can also be normal.Tegucigalpa 3Read
  5. 5 Changing moneyCommonPoor-value border money exchangeWalking money changers offer rates below those available at banks. This is a poor-value exchange rather than proof of fraud.Border crossings, where money changers approach travellers 3Read
  6. 6 TaxisOccasionalArmed robbery in taxisPassengers have been robbed at gunpoint or knifepoint while taking taxis.Tegucigalpa 1Read
  7. 7 On the streetOccasionalHard-luck stories used for scams or pickpocketingSomeone approaches with a story about hardship. The approach may be part of a scam or an attempt to pick your pocket. Some street children may also become aggressive.Tegucigalpa 1Read
  8. 8 TheftOccasionalPickpocketing in the marketThieves quietly take money or belongings from pockets and bags while visitors browse the market.Comayagüela 1Read
  9. 9 TheftOccasionalGrab-and-run theftA thief grabs a visible item and runs away. This happens in the market even during daylight.Comayagüela 2Read
  10. 10 Food and drinkOccasionalDrugging followed by robberyVisitors have been drugged and robbed after accepting food or drink from strangers.Tegucigalpa 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Hotel Maya and nearby streets, TegucigalpaThieves watch areas near tourist hotels, with Hotel Maya specifically mentioned.
  • Historical centre, TegucigalpaStreet crime is a concern. Daytime walking is described as generally possible with care; walking after dark should be avoided.
  • Mercado San Isidro, ComayagüelaPickpockets and grab-and-run thieves operate even during daylight.
  • Bus stations and routes away from them, ComayagüelaWalking from a station to a hotel or another station is described as risky, even during the day.
  • Areas outside tourist hotels, San Pedro SulaThieves watch for foreign visitors, especially at night.
  • Border crossingsWalking money changers usually offer worse rates than banks.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree on the fare before boarding and confirm whether it is per person or for the whole car.
  • In Tegucigalpa, use a radio-dispatched taxi or consider a ride-booking app.
  • In La Ceiba, fares are generally per passenger, except from the airport.
  • Arrange transport after dark instead of walking.
  • For intercity travel, choose private bus companies where possible.

Money

  • Carry only the cash you need for the outing.
  • Carry small US dollar bills under US$20; damaged or marked bills may be refused.
  • Compare border exchange offers with bank rates and bring your passport for bank exchanges.
  • Plan cash needs before visiting the Bay Islands, where ATMs are limited.

Your belongings

  • Keep phones, jewellery and large amounts of cash out of sight.
  • Keep bags closed and close to your body in markets and on buses.
  • Use a guarded parking lot in Tegucigalpa and take valuables out of the car.
  • Keep your phone charged so you can arrange transport or seek help.
  • At Parque de la Paz, visit by day with a reliable taxi or tourist guide; do not walk up the hill.

Nights out

  • Avoid becoming intoxicated.
  • Do not accept food or drink from strangers.
  • Bars and nightclubs carry greater risks of crime and violence; inexperienced visitors should consider avoiding them.
  • Arrange your ride back before going out.

Where you stay

  • Ask hotel staff about the exact streets you plan to use.
  • Arrange transport from bus stations in Comayagüela rather than walking to find lodging.
  • Watch for people lingering outside tourist hotels.
  • Choose lodging with security where possible.

Police and officials

  • Use caution when approaching local police because corruption is reported.
  • Ask your embassy, consulate or insurer for help deciding how to report a crime.
  • Keep copies of any report or reference number you receive.

What travellers say about Honduras

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

What are the main risks for a first-time visitor?

Robbery and theft are the main concerns. Watch for inflated taxi quotes, poor border exchange rates, hard-luck approaches and food or drinks offered by strangers.

How can I avoid an inflated taxi fare?

Agree on the total price before boarding and ask whether it covers every passenger. In Tegucigalpa, compare the quote with a ride-booking app and decline an expensive offer.

Are public buses a safe choice?

Robberies on public buses are described as common. Choose private bus companies where possible. Rapiditos are described as a safer option.

Can I walk after dark?

Use arranged transport after dark. This is especially important in Tegucigalpa, where thieves target streets near tourist hotels. Avoid walking from bus stations in Comayagüela, even during daylight.

What should I watch for at Mercado San Isidro?

Pickpocketing and grab-and-run theft happen even during the day. Visit in daylight, carry few valuables and keep your bag closed and in front of you.

Should I exchange money with people at the border?

Compare the offer first. Border money changers usually offer about 5–10% below value. Banks generally offer better rates and require your passport.

Is it safe to accept a drink from someone I just met?

Do not accept food or drink from strangers. Visitors in Tegucigalpa have been drugged and robbed. Keep your own drink in sight and avoid becoming intoxicated.

Can I leave bags in a parked car?

Take valuables with you. Car break-ins are common in Tegucigalpa, including during daylight. Pay for a guarded parking lot.

Should I report a theft to local police?

Use caution because police corruption is reported. Your embassy, consulate or insurer can help you decide how to report it. Contact your bank promptly if cards were stolen.

What should I do during an armed robbery?

Do not resist or make sudden movements. Give up property if threatened. Once safe, seek medical help if needed, block stolen cards and contact your insurer.

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