Where is Honduras Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Honduras located on the map? Honduras is an independent nation located in North America. Check out the following images to see location of Honduras on maps.

Honduras Location in World Map

Honduras is in Central America. There is only a small bay with access to the Pacific, while the Caribbean coast is quite long.

Location Information of Honduras

Honduras is a country located in Central America, bordered by Guatemala to the west, El Salvador to the southeast, Nicaragua to the south, and the Caribbean Sea to the north. It also has a small Pacific coastline, making it one of the countries in the region with access to both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Known for its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and significant cultural landmarks, Honduras is a nation of both natural beauty and economic challenges.

Latitude and Longitude

Honduras is situated at approximately 13.9094° N latitude and 82.3563° W longitude. Its location places it within the tropical zone, giving it a variety of climates and geographical features, from coastal plains to mountainous terrain in the interior.

Capital City and Major Cities

Tegucigalpa (Capital City)

Tegucigalpa is the capital and largest city of Honduras, located in the central part of the country in a valley surrounded by mountains. The city serves as the political, cultural, and economic hub of the nation. It has a population of about 1.2 million people, making it one of the largest urban centers in Central America. Key attractions in Tegucigalpa include:

La Tigra National Park: A tropical forest reserve located just outside the city, offering hiking trails and diverse wildlife.
National Museum of Anthropology and History: Displays cultural and historical artifacts from Honduras’ pre-Columbian and colonial eras.
El Picacho Hill: Offers panoramic views of the city and is home to a large statue of Christ, a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

San Pedro Sula

Located in the northern part of the country, San Pedro Sula is Honduras’ second-largest city and an important industrial center. It is considered the economic engine of the country due to its manufacturing sector, particularly in the fields of textiles, coffee, and bananas. San Pedro Sula is also a gateway for tourists traveling to Honduras’ coastal regions. Some notable attractions in the area include:

Cusuco National Park: A biodiversity hotspot located in the mountains near the city, known for its wildlife, particularly its bird species.
Museum of Anthropology and History: A museum showcasing the country’s history and indigenous cultures.
Parque Central: A central park in the heart of the city, surrounded by cafes, markets, and historic buildings.

La Ceiba

Located on the Caribbean coast, La Ceiba is Honduras’ third-largest city. It is known for its vibrant tourism industry, offering access to Roatán Island, a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. La Ceiba is also famous for its Carnaval de La Ceiba, a lively festival held every May. Attractions include:

Pico Bonito National Park: Known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, it is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Cayos Cochinos: A group of small islands and cays, popular for snorkeling, diving, and experiencing the natural beauty of Honduras’ marine life.

Choluteca

Located in the southern region of Honduras, Choluteca is known for its hot climate and proximity to the border with Nicaragua. The city is an agricultural center, known for the cultivation of crops such as sugarcane, coffee, and maize. Major attractions include:

Choluteca River: Offers beautiful views and the opportunity for fishing and small boat excursions.
La Ceiba National Park: A protected area near the city, offering hiking trails and chances to view endemic species.

Comayagua

Comayagua is a historic city located in the central region of Honduras. It served as the capital of the country until 1880, and the city still retains many colonial-era buildings. It is an important cultural and historical center with attractions like:

Comayagua Cathedral: One of the oldest churches in Central America, dating back to the early 16th century.
La Plazuela de los Milagros: A historic square that serves as a gathering place for locals and a site for cultural events.

Time Zone

Honduras operates in Central Standard Time (CST), which is UTC -6 year-round. Unlike some other countries in the region, Honduras does not observe Daylight Saving Time, maintaining the same time throughout the year.

Climate

Honduras has a tropical climate with distinct variations depending on the region, due to its diverse topography, which includes coastal areas, plains, and mountains. The country generally experiences two main seasons:

Wet Season (May to October)

The wet season is characterized by frequent rain, especially in the coastal and mountain regions. Tropical storms and hurricanes can sometimes affect the northern coast during this time, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. The average temperature during the wet season ranges from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with higher humidity levels.

Dry Season (November to April)

The dry season is from November to April, with much less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures, particularly in the inland areas. In the coastal regions, the temperature can still rise above 30°C (86°F), but the humidity is lower. This period is considered the best time to visit the country for those looking to avoid heavy rainfall.

Economic Status

Honduras is considered one of the poorer countries in Central America, but its economy has shown some progress in recent years. It remains heavily reliant on agriculture, with exports of coffee, bananas, and palm oil forming a significant part of its GDP. Other important sectors include manufacturing, especially in textiles and clothing, and remittances from the large Honduran diaspora, particularly in the United States.

Key Economic Sectors

Agriculture: Coffee and bananas are among the country’s largest exports. Honduras is one of the world’s top coffee producers, particularly known for its high-quality Arabica coffee.
Manufacturing: The textile and apparel industry is a significant contributor to the economy, with Honduras serving as a major exporter of clothing to the United States, particularly through the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR).
Tourism: Tourism plays a growing role in the economy, especially with the country’s beautiful beaches, islands, and national parks, which attract visitors for eco-tourism and adventure tourism.
Mining: The mining sector is also important, with Honduras being rich in gold, silver, and other minerals, although mining activities have caused environmental and social concerns.

Economic Challenges

Honduras faces significant economic challenges, including poverty, income inequality, and high unemployment rates. The country also struggles with corruption, political instability, and violence, which has deterred some foreign investment. Natural disasters, such as hurricanes and floods, have periodically devastated parts of the country, further hampering economic development.

Tourist Attractions

Honduras offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, from ancient ruins to beautiful beaches and mountains. The following are some of the key tourist destinations:

Roatán

Roatán is the largest island in the Bay Islands of Honduras, located in the Caribbean. It is known for its world-class scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, as it is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. The island also offers beautiful beaches, such as West Bay Beach and Coxen Hole, and a laid-back atmosphere ideal for relaxation.

Copán Ruins

Located in the western part of Honduras, near the Guatemalan border, the Copán Ruins are one of the most important Mayan archaeological sites in Central America. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Copán was a major Mayan city known for its hieroglyphic stairway, sculpted monuments, and grand plazas. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the advanced civilization that once inhabited the region.

Utila

Utila is another island in the Bay Islands of Honduras, known for its scuba diving opportunities, particularly the chance to dive with whale sharks. The island has a more laid-back vibe compared to Roatán, making it a popular choice for backpackers and budget travelers.

La Tigra National Park

This national park, located just outside Tegucigalpa, is a popular destination for those looking to explore Honduras’ cloud forests. The park offers numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings, including rare species like the ocelot and the mountain lion.

The Mosquito Coast

The Mosquito Coast in the eastern part of Honduras is an isolated and rugged region, offering pristine beaches, rainforests, and a rich cultural heritage. It is an area less explored by tourists but offers an adventurous experience for those willing to trek into the jungle.

Pico Bonito National Park

Located near La Ceiba, Pico Bonito National Park is home to one of the highest peaks in Honduras, Pico Bonito, which rises to 2,435 meters (7,989 feet). The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with species like the scarlet macaw and harpy eagle inhabiting the area.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens visiting Honduras for tourism purposes do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, travelers must have:

A valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into Honduras.
Proof of return or onward travel (e.g., a return ticket).

For stays longer than 90 days or if the purpose of travel is for work or study, U.S. citizens must apply for a visa at the nearest Honduran embassy or consulate. Travelers should also ensure they have enough funds to cover their stay.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

New York City to Tegucigalpa: The distance between John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York and Toncontín International Airport (TGU) in Tegucigalpa is approximately 2,300 miles (3,700 kilometers), with a flight duration of about 4-5 hours.
Los Angeles to Tegucigalpa: The distance between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Toncontín International Airport (TGU) is approximately 3,100 miles (5,000 kilometers), with a flight duration of around 5-6 hours.

Honduras Facts

Size	112,492 km²
Residents	9.58 million
Language	Spanish (official language)
Capital	Tegucigalpa
Longest river	Río Patuca (320 km)
Highest mountain	Cerro Las Minas (2,870 m)
Currency	Lempira