San Pedro Sula Cortes Department, Honduras Travel Guide
The city experiences a tropical monsoon climate, meaning high temperatures stay consistent throughout the year. Average daily temperatures generally range from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F). April and May are the hottest months, with average highs reaching around 35°C (95°F). December and January offer slightly cooler conditions, with average lows around 20°C (68°F).
San Pedro Sula has two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the wet season (May to October). The dry season features less rainfall and lower humidity, making outdoor activities pleasant. The wet season brings higher rainfall and increased humidity, with peak precipitation typically occurring during The month of june and again in September/October. Lightweight, breathable clothing is a good choice for any time of year.
The high season aligns with the dry season, from December to April. This period has lower humidity and less rain, creating comfortable conditions for exploring the outdoors. It moreover coincides with winter holidays, attracting more visitors. Advantages include pleasant weather and simpler travel. This period can mean potentially higher prices for flights and accommodations, along with more crowded attractions.
Shoulder seasons occur in May and November. These transition periods between the dry and wet seasons present a good balance, with possiblely lower prices than the high season and fewer tourists. The low season runs from June to October, corresponding with the wet season. At this time, you find the rock-bottom prices and fewest tourists. Landscapes become lush and green. The downside includes high humidity and significant rainfall, which can cause localized flooding. There is an increased risk of cyclones and hurricanes in this timeframe.
Hurricane Season
June 1 to November 30
Heavy rains, strong winds, flooding from tropical depressions, storms, and hurricanes possible.
Consistently Hot
Rarely above 40°C (104°F) or below 15°C (59°F)
Can feel much higher due to humidity, especially in the wet season.
Seasonal Preferences
Dry season (November-April) preferable for hiking (less mud, pleasant temperatures).
Check local calendars; timing is specific to event dates.
Most citizens from North America, Central America, South America (excluding Cuba and Venezuela), and many European, Asian, and Oceanian countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Honduras participates in the Central America-4 (CA-4) Border Control Agreement (El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua are members). An entry stamp from any CA-4 country allows free travel to the others within the 90-day period. For nationalities that needs a visa, the process includes applying at a Honduran embassy or consulate. IVisa or VisaHQ offer visa assistance.
Required documentation for entry includes a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date. Airlines may ask for proof that you are leaving. Immigration officials might also request evidence that you can support yourself financially. Travelers from countries needing a visa must present their approved visa upon arrival.
6 months beyond entry date
90-day free travel within El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua
Proof of return flight possibly requested
Evidence of sufficient funds for stay
Completion upon arrival
The official currency is the Honduran Lempira (HNL). The exchange rate fluctuates, generally around HNL 24-25 per 1 USD. US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and major businesses, but you will receive change in Lempiras.
Cash machines are common in San Pedro Sula at major banks like BAC Credomatic, Ficohsa, and Davivienda. Notify your bank about your travel plans to prevent any holds on your card. Credit cards find acceptance at most hotels, larger restaurants, and supermarkets. Smaller businesses and street vendors typically accept only cash.
Tipping is generally similar to many Western countries. In mid-range to upscale restaurants, tipping 10% is customary if a service charge is not already included. Tipping taxi drivers is not usually expected, but rounding up the fare is common. Tour guides appreciate tips, usually 10-15% of the tour cost or USD 5-10 per person for a half-day tour. A modest gratuity (HNL 20-50) for hotel bellhops or housekeepers is appropriate.
Here are general price ranges for various services in San Pedro Sula.
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well before your departure to discuss recommended vaccinations. A Yellow Fever vaccine is needed if you arrive from, or transit through, an endemic country. Recommended vaccines include routine ones like MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, and annual influenza. Additionally, Hep A and B, Typhoid, and Rabies (for long-term travelers or those with animal contact) are often advised.
Mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue, Chikungunya, Zika, and Malaria are concerns. Protect yourself by using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wear long sleeves and pants, notably at dawn and dusk. Use mosquito nets if your accommodation lacks air-conditioning or screens.
Travelers' Diarrhea is another common issue, often due to contaminated food or water. Prevent this using drinking only bottled, boiled, or purified water. Avoid ice made from tap water. Eat thoroughly cooked food, and avoid raw fruits or vegetables unless you can peel them or wash them in safe water. Practice good hand hygiene.
San Pedro Sula has a number of private hospitals, like Hospital Militar, Hospital del Valle, and Hospital Cemesa. These facilities feature higher standards of care compared to public hospitals, which can be overcrowded and under-resourced. Private clinics are available for routine medical necessities. Pharmacies are well-stocked, and pharmacists often provide essential medical advice.
Private hospitals for high-standard care.
Public hospitals may be overcrowded.
Tap water is generally not safe to drink in San Pedro Sula. Consume only bottled, filtered, or boiled water. Exercise caution with street food; confirm it is hot and freshly prepared. Prefer busy establishments with high turnover. Avoid unpeeled fruits and raw vegetables unless washed with purified water.
Stick to bottled or purified water.
Avoid tap water and unwashed produce.
San Pedro Sula has historically faced challenges with crime rates. Vigilance remains required. Armed robbery and carjacking are concerns, particularly at night and in not as busy areas. Avoid displaying valuable items. Extortion can target businesses and individuals. Express kidnapping, brief abductions for ATM withdrawals, is also a risk. The city center can be busy during the day; exercise caution, especially after business hours.
Use reputable taxis, stay aware.
Avoid walking alone at night, displaying valuables.
| Category | Areas of Concern | Relatively Safer Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Safety | Periphery, certain marginalized neighborhoods, less frequented areas after dark. | Commercial zones, gated communities, areas with higher police presence, upscale shopping malls, hotel zones. |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricane and tropical storm season (June-November), seismic activity (minor tremors common, larger earthquakes possible). Landslides in hilly areas during heavy rains. | Stay informed on weather forecasts. |
| General Prevention | Walking alone at night, resisting armed assailants (prioritize safety). | Use reputable taxis/ride-sharing, stay aware of surroundings. |
