Honduras Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Hondura, State of Central America; 112 100 km², 9.6 million residents (2019).Honduras is Central America’s second largest country and borders in the northwest to Guatemala, in the south to Nicaragua and in the southwest to El Salvador and has coast to the Caribbean in the north and the Pacific in the south. In addition to the mainland, several island groups are included. The capital is Tegucigalpa (1.1 million residents, 2015).

Country facts

Republic of Honduras / Republic of Honduras
Country abbreviation: HN
Area: 112 100 km²
Population (2019): 9.6 million residents
Capital: Tegucigalpa
Main language: Spanish
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Juan Orlando Hernández (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 2,483
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 2,330
Currency unit: 1 lempira = 100 centavos
Currency code: HNL
Country number (telephony): 504
Internet Domain Name: hn
Time difference compared to Sweden: −7
National Day: September 15 (Independence Day, 1821)

Nature

Land use: forest (53%), agricultural land (18%), other (29%)
Highest mountain: Las Minas (2,849 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 86 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.8%; birthrate 22 ‰, death count 4 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (33%), 15-65 (62%), 65- (5%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 73 years, women 77 years
Infant mortality (2019): 15 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 14 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.617 (place 133 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 55%
Most populous cities (2015): Tegucigalpa (1.1 million residents), San Pedro Sula (641,900)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (14%), industry (29%), service (57%)
Exports (2017): US $ 8,675 million
Main export products: clothing, coffee, seafood
Main exporting countries: USA, Germany, Belgium
Imports (2017): US $ 11,320 million
Main import products: machinery and means of transport, industrial raw materials, chemical products
Main importing countries: USA, Guatemala, China
Railway network (2014): 700 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Honduras is located in Central America, bordered by Guatemala to the west, El Salvador to the south, Nicaragua to the east, and the Caribbean Sea to the north. With a land area of about 112,492 square kilometers, it is the second-largest country in Central America. Its geographic location places it at the crossroads of the Americas, influencing its cultural and historical development over time.

Honduras has a varied topography, which is divided into three main regions: the coastal lowlands along the Caribbean, the central highlands, and the Pacific lowlands. The country’s location in the tropics and proximity to the Caribbean Sea give it both scenic coastal areas and a rich biodiversity, which have made it a key player in regional environmental issues.

Major Landforms

The country’s landscape is characterized by diverse landforms, ranging from mountains and valleys to plains and coastal regions. The central region of Honduras is dominated by the extensive mountain range known as the Honduran Highlands. These mountains are home to numerous valleys and plateaus, and they are part of the larger Central American Volcanic Arc. The highest point in Honduras is Cerro Las Minas, which rises to 2,870 meters (9,416 feet) above sea level.

The eastern and northern parts of the country are home to the Mosquitia region, a vast area of tropical rainforests, rivers, and wetlands that extends into Nicaragua. This region has been sparsely populated due to its remote and rugged terrain, but it is ecologically significant due to its rich biodiversity.

Honduras’s Pacific coastline is less developed than the Caribbean coast but still plays an important role in the country’s economy, particularly in terms of agriculture and port trade. The western region of the country is dominated by plains, with fertile lands suitable for growing crops such as coffee, corn, and beans.

Rivers and Lakes

Rivers play an important role in Honduras’s geography, providing water resources for agriculture, industry, and transportation. The two major river systems in the country are the Ulúa and the Choluteca Rivers. The Ulúa River, in the northern part of the country, flows toward the Caribbean and is vital for transportation and irrigation. The Choluteca River, which flows southward, has been a key waterway for the southern part of Honduras.

Honduras also contains several important lakes, many of which are found in the western and central regions. Lake Xolotlan (Lake Cocibolca), located in the western part of the country, is one of the largest lakes in Central America. Lake Cocibolca serves as a vital water source for the surrounding communities and supports fishing activities. The Copán River, which runs through the Copán Ruins, is another notable waterway.

Climate

Tropical Climate Zones

Honduras has a tropical climate that varies depending on the region and altitude. The coastal areas and lowlands, which are closer to the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, experience a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) year-round. These areas also experience a pronounced wet season from May to October, with heavy rainfall that nourishes the dense rainforests and supports agriculture.

The higher central regions of Honduras, particularly in the Honduran Highlands, have a more temperate climate. The temperature in these areas ranges from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the weather is less humid compared to the lowlands. The higher elevations experience cooler temperatures and more moderate rainfall. In the mountain towns of La Esperanza and Gracias, the cooler weather makes these areas popular for coffee cultivation, a significant industry in Honduras.

Seasonal Variation

In general, Honduras experiences two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season, from May to October, brings the heaviest rainfall, particularly to the northern coastal regions. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is characterized by less precipitation and lower humidity, especially in the interior of the country. The dry season is ideal for traveling and visiting the country’s natural attractions, such as national parks, beaches, and historic sites.

The country also faces the risk of hurricanes during the rainy season, as it lies in the Caribbean hurricane belt. Although not as frequently affected as other parts of Central America, Honduras has experienced severe storms in the past, particularly in the coastal areas. These storms have had a significant impact on the agricultural sector, infrastructure, and overall economy.

People

Demographics

Honduras has a population of around 10 million people. The majority of the population is of mestizo (mixed Indigenous and European) descent, constituting about 90% of the population. The Indigenous population in Honduras is small but significant, with groups such as the Lenca, Miskito, and Garífuna communities residing mainly in the rural and coastal regions. These Indigenous communities have preserved distinct cultural traditions, languages, and customs.

In addition to the Indigenous peoples, there are smaller communities of Afro-Hondurans, particularly the Garífuna, descendants of African slaves who were brought to the region during the colonial period. The Garífuna people, who live along the northern coast, have a rich cultural heritage that blends African, Indigenous, and European influences. There is also a significant population of European descendants, particularly of Spanish origin, who have historically been involved in trade, agriculture, and politics.

Honduras has experienced significant rural-to-urban migration, especially to the capital city, Tegucigalpa, and the northern port city of San Pedro Sula. These urban areas have grown rapidly over the past few decades and are home to diverse communities, including a growing number of immigrants from neighboring countries and beyond.

Language and Religion

Spanish is the official language of Honduras and is spoken by nearly the entire population. However, there are also several Indigenous languages spoken by the country’s Indigenous communities. These languages, including Lenca, Miskito, and Garífuna, reflect the diverse cultural heritage of the country’s ethnic groups. While Spanish is the dominant language used in government, education, and business, efforts have been made in recent years to preserve and promote Indigenous languages and culture.

The majority of the population in Honduras is Roman Catholic, although Protestantism, particularly evangelical Christianity, has grown significantly in recent decades. There are small but notable communities of other religions, including Islam, Judaism, and various Indigenous belief systems. Catholicism remains deeply intertwined with many aspects of Honduran culture, especially in rural areas, where traditional Catholic festivals, processions, and religious holidays are celebrated with fervor. Protestantism, particularly Pentecostalism, has become more influential in urban areas, reflecting broader global trends of religious conversion.

Economy

Economic Overview

Honduras has a mixed economy, with agriculture, manufacturing, and services sectors contributing to its GDP. Despite its small size and limited resources, the country’s economy has shown growth in recent years, driven by exports, remittances, and international trade. Agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, with coffee being one of the most important export products, alongside bananas, palm oil, and other tropical fruits.

The country is one of the largest coffee producers in Central America and is known for producing high-quality Arabica coffee beans. Coffee is the primary export and a major source of employment, particularly in rural areas. Other significant agricultural products include bananas, which are primarily grown on the northern coast, as well as pineapples, melons, and vegetables.

Manufacturing has also become a key sector in Honduras’s economy. The country has a significant textile and apparel industry, particularly in the free trade zones in cities like San Pedro Sula, where clothing and textiles are produced for export to the United States and other markets. In addition to textiles, Honduras has a growing light manufacturing sector, producing food products, building materials, and electronics.

The services sector has expanded, especially in tourism and finance, though it still accounts for a smaller portion of the economy compared to agriculture and manufacturing. Tourism, which has grown in recent years, is a major source of foreign exchange, thanks to the country’s natural beauty, including its beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and ecotourism offerings.

Challenges and Opportunities

Honduras faces several significant challenges to its economic growth. Poverty, unemployment, and inequality remain pervasive, particularly in rural areas. The country has one of the highest poverty rates in Latin America, with large segments of the population lacking access to quality healthcare, education, and infrastructure. High levels of crime, violence, and corruption also pose significant hurdles to economic development, discouraging foreign investment and limiting job creation.

Despite these challenges, Honduras has opportunities for growth. The country’s rich natural resources, including minerals, forests, and agricultural land, offer potential for sustainable economic development. The growing popularity of ecotourism, combined with the country’s beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, and cultural heritage, presents an opportunity for expanding the tourism sector. Moreover, Honduras has entered into various trade agreements, including free trade agreements with the United States, which can help stimulate growth in the export and manufacturing sectors.

Government

Political Structure

Honduras is a democratic republic with a presidential system of government. The country’s political system is based on the 1982 Constitution, which established the framework for the country’s governance. The president is both the head of state and government and is elected for a four-year term, with the possibility of reelection. The president holds significant executive powers, including the authority to issue decrees, manage foreign relations, and oversee the country’s administration.

The Legislative Branch of Honduras is unicameral, consisting of a National Congress with 128 members. These representatives are elected for four-year terms, and the National Congress is responsible for passing laws, approving the national budget, and overseeing the executive branch. The judiciary is independent, with the Supreme Court being the highest judicial body in the country. It is responsible for interpreting the law and ensuring its application.

Honduras is divided into 18 departments, each of which is governed by a departmental governor. Local governments play a significant role in the administration of the country’s municipalities and cities. Honduras has a history of political instability, particularly marked by coup d’états, civil unrest, and contested elections, which have at times hindered the country’s democratic development.

Political History

Honduras has a complex political history, marked by both democratic progress and periods of instability. The country was governed as a military dictatorship for much of the 20th century, with military coups and external interventions shaping its political landscape. In 1982, Honduras adopted its current democratic constitution, which established the framework for free elections, civil liberties, and the rule of law.

In the years following the constitution’s adoption, Honduras experienced political and economic challenges, including persistent poverty, corruption, and military influence in politics. The most recent political crisis occurred in 2009, when a military coup ousted President Manuel Zelaya after he attempted to seek a constitutional change to extend his presidency. This coup led to widespread protests, international condemnation, and a period of political uncertainty.

Since then, Honduras has made efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions, although political tensions and corruption have continued to challenge the country’s stability. The political system has been marked by a partisan divide between the ruling National Party and the opposition Libre Party, with the latter advocating for more progressive policies, particularly on social issues.

Culture

Art and Music

Honduran culture reflects its diverse ethnic composition and historical influences. The country has a rich tradition of visual arts, including indigenous artwork from the Lenca and Garífuna peoples, as well as Spanish colonial influences. Traditional crafts such as wood carving, pottery, and weaving are important elements of Honduran culture, and many of these artisanal crafts are sold in markets and galleries throughout the country.

Honduras also has a vibrant music scene, which blends Indigenous, African, and Spanish traditions. The Garífuna people have a particularly rich musical heritage, with traditional drumming and dance styles such as punta. Other popular forms of music in Honduras include marimba, salsa, and cumbia. Music and dance play an integral role in cultural celebrations, festivals, and family events.

Festivals and Cuisine

Honduras celebrates a variety of cultural and religious festivals throughout the year. The most significant is the annual celebration of Semana Santa (Holy Week), which is observed with processions, religious ceremonies, and community events. The Carnival of La Ceiba, one of the largest and most vibrant festivals in Honduras, takes place every May and features music, dancing, and parades, attracting both locals and tourists.

Honduran cuisine is a reflection of its agricultural products and regional influences. The traditional diet consists of rice, beans, corn, and meats, with tortillas being a staple food. One of the most famous dishes is “baleada,” a flour tortilla filled with beans, cheese, cream, and sometimes meat. Another popular dish is “sopa de caracol” (conch soup), which is made with conch, coconut milk, and vegetables. Honduras is also known for its delicious tropical fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and bananas, which are widely grown and consumed.

Literature and Cinema

Honduran literature is an important part of the country’s cultural identity, with notable authors such as Ramón Amaya Amador and Carlos Vázquez writing about the country’s history, politics, and rural life. Literature in Honduras often reflects the country’s social and political struggles, with works addressing themes such as poverty, inequality, and the experiences of Indigenous and Afro-Honduran communities.

In cinema, Honduras has produced a number of films that explore social issues, political history, and the country’s landscapes. While the Honduran film industry remains relatively small compared to other Latin American countries, it has begun to gain recognition at international film festivals for its portrayal of life in Honduras. Documentaries and films about migration, human rights, and the environment are growing areas of focus in the Honduran cinema scene.