16 Jaw-Dropping Instagrammable Places in Honduras You Must Visit in 2025

Introduction: Why Honduras Should Be Your Next Photography Adventure

The first time I stepped off the plane at Toncontín International Airport in Tegucigalpa, I had no idea Honduras would steal my heart through my camera lens. Five visits later, I’m still discovering new angles to capture this underrated Central American gem. What started as a quick stopover during my backpacking trip through Central America has turned into a love affair with a country that offers everything from ancient Mayan ruins to pristine Caribbean beaches – all without the Instagram crowds you’ll find in neighboring countries.

Honduras represents one of Central America’s best-kept secrets for photographers and Instagrammers. While tourists flock to Costa Rica or Guatemala, Honduras offers equally stunning landscapes, rich culture, and authentic experiences – often with you being the only one framing that perfect shot. In 2025, as travel continues its post-pandemic rebound, Honduras is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for those seeking unique content for their social feeds.

In this guide, I’ll share my favorite Instagrammable spots across Honduras, complete with tips on the best times to visit, how to get those envy-inducing shots, and the practical details you won’t find in typical travel guides. Whether you’re chasing that perfect sunset over the Caribbean Sea or looking to capture the vibrant street culture of Honduran cities, this guide has you covered.

¡Vamos a Honduras! (Let’s go to Honduras!)

The Bay Islands: Caribbean Paradise for Your Feed

The Bay Islands of Honduras offer some of the most photogenic beaches and diving spots in the entire Caribbean. Here are the must-capture locations:

Roatán: West Bay Beach

West Bay Beach on Roatán Island is quite simply the postcard image of Caribbean perfection. With powdery white sand that squeaks beneath your feet and crystal-clear turquoise waters stretching to the horizon, this is prime Instagram territory. I’ve visited during different seasons, and I can tell you that early morning (6:30-8:00 AM) offers the most magical light – the water appears to glow from within, and you’ll have fewer people in your shots.

My favorite spot is at the far western end near Infinity Bay Resort, where you can capture the curving shoreline stretching into the distance. For underwater content, the reef is just 15-20 meters offshore, making it one of the most accessible spots to get those half-underwater, half-above shots with a dome camera or waterproof phone case.

💡 Pro Tip: Visit during weekdays if possible. The beach gets significantly busier when cruise ships dock, usually on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Check the Roatán cruise schedule before planning your photo day.

Utila: The Underwater Paradise

While Roatán gets more attention, Utila Island has stolen my heart with its laid-back vibe and spectacular underwater scenes. The island is known for being one of the cheapest places in the world to get PADI certified (around 4,400 Lempiras or $175 USD), and the diving is world-class.

For Instagram-worthy shots, head to Coral View Beach near the south end of the island. What makes this location special is the contrast between the small, intimate beach and the dramatic drop-off just offshore – perfect for split-level photography. If you’re lucky (as I was on my third visit), you might catch glimpses of whale sharks between March and April or August and September.

The Utilians Dive Center offers underwater photography courses and equipment rentals if you’re serious about capturing the spectacular marine life. I made the mistake of trying to use my basic waterproof camera on my first visit – trust me, it’s worth investing in proper underwater equipment or at least renting it for a day.

In town, don’t miss capturing the colorful dive shops along the main street, especially during the golden hour when the fading light gives the whole island a dreamlike quality.

Cayos Cochinos: The Secret Islands

If you’re after truly unique content that few travelers capture, make the effort to reach Cayos Cochinos (Hog Islands). This small archipelago between Roatán and mainland Honduras offers pristine, untouched beaches and marine landscapes that feel like stepping back in time.

You’ll need to arrange a boat from La Ceiba (typically costing about 1,250 Lempiras or $50 USD round trip), but the journey is part of the adventure. I still remember the salty spray on my face as we bounced across the waves, my camera safely tucked in a waterproof bag – a minor inconvenience for the paradise that awaited.

The standout Instagram spot is Pink Pond on Cayo Mayor, where a natural pink-hued pool creates an otherworldly setting. The color comes from a specific type of algae, creating a natural phenomenon that looks almost unreal in photos. Visit between 11 AM and 2 PM when the sun is directly overhead to capture the most vibrant pink tones.

The Garifuna communities on the islands offer another dimension to your photography, with permission-based portraits showcasing the unique culture of these Afro-Caribbean people. Always ask first and consider making a small donation to the community projects.

💰 Money-saving insider tip: Instead of booking through tour agencies in La Ceiba which charge $100+ for day trips, head to the local dock and negotiate directly with fishermen who make regular trips to the islands. I paid just 750 Lempiras ($30) for a round-trip journey by sharing the boat with locals. You’ll need basic Spanish skills and flexibility on timing, but it’s worth it!

Ancient Wonders: Copán Ruins

No Instagram journey through Honduras would be complete without capturing the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán. Located near the western border with Guatemala, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers some of the most intricate and well-preserved Mayan carvings in all of Central America.

The Great Plaza and Hieroglyphic Stairway

The centerpiece of Copán is the Great Plaza with its stunning stellae (carved stone monuments) depicting ancient Mayan rulers. I’ve found that these photograph beautifully in the early morning light (the site opens at 8 AM) when the rising sun creates dramatic shadows across the intricate carvings. My favorite spot is standing at the eastern end of the plaza looking west, where you can capture multiple stellae with the acropolis rising in the background.

The Hieroglyphic Stairway is another must-photograph location – it’s the longest known Mayan text, with over 2,000 glyphs telling the history of the royal dynasty. Visit around 10 AM when the light hits the stairs directly, bringing out the details in the carvings. The site provides a protective covering during the rainy season (May-November), which can interfere with photos, so plan accordingly if possible.

Entrance to the ruins costs 570 Lempiras (about $23 USD) in 2025, which includes access to the main archaeological site and the nearby sculpture museum. I recommend hiring a guide (additional 500 Lempiras) who can position you for the best photo opportunities and explain the significance of what you’re capturing.

Las Sepulturas: The Off-the-Beaten-Path Ruins

Most visitors focus solely on the main archaeological park, but for unique Instagram content, walk the 1.5 km to the Las Sepulturas complex (included in your entry ticket). This residential area of ancient Copán offers intimate glimpses into Mayan daily life with fewer tourists in your shots.

I stumbled upon this extension of the site on my second visit and was amazed to find myself completely alone among ancient stone structures, with sunlight filtering through the jungle canopy creating natural spotlights on the stone. This area is especially photogenic during the rainy season when everything is lush and green.

💡 Photography tip: Bring a polarizing filter for your camera if you have one. It helps cut the glare on the limestone structures and makes the sky appear a deeper blue in your photos, creating more dramatic contrast.

The Town of Copán Ruinas

The charming cobblestone town of Copán Ruinas itself deserves space on your feed. The colonial architecture with its red-tiled roofs and pastel-colored buildings creates a picturesque backdrop. Don’t miss sunset at Café San Rafael on the main square, where you can capture your coffee or cocktail with the church and plaza in the background.

For a unique local touch, visit on Saturdays when the market comes to town. The vibrant displays of tropical fruits, handwoven textiles, and local crafts offer countless composition opportunities. I once spent an entire morning photographing just the different varieties of beans arranged in perfect pyramids, each with their own distinct colors and patterns.

Me encanta el ambiente tranquilo (I love the peaceful atmosphere) of Copán Ruinas – it’s the perfect phrase to practice as you enjoy this town’s relaxed charm.

Majestic National Parks: Pico Bonito and Celaque

Pico Bonito: Jungle Waterfalls

Pico Bonito National Park near La Ceiba offers some of Honduras’ most dramatic landscape photography opportunities. The lush rainforest backdrop against towering mountains creates depth and scale that will elevate your Instagram feed.

My favorite photographic subject here is the El Bejuco Waterfall. The hike to reach it is moderately challenging (about 2 hours each way), but the payoff is worth it – a 60-meter cascade of white water against black rock and green jungle. I learned the hard way that you’ll want a dry bag for your camera equipment, as the trail crosses several streams and the humidity is intense. The waterfall photographs best between 11 AM and 2 PM when streaks of sunlight sometimes penetrate the canopy, creating magical light beams in your shots.

The entrance fee to the park is 220 Lempiras (about $9 USD), and I highly recommend hiring a local guide (500 Lempiras) not just for safety but because they know secret spots for the best photographs. My guide Edwin showed me a hidden vantage point slightly off-trail that perfectly framed the waterfall with a natural rock arch – a shot that became one of my most-liked Instagram posts ever.

For wildlife photographers, the park’s observation towers offer opportunities to capture colorful birds and occasionally monkeys in the canopy. Bring a telephoto lens if you have one, and be patient – I spent three hours one morning waiting for the perfect shot of a keel-billed toucan.

Celaque National Park: Cloud Forests and Honduras’ Highest Peak

For dramatic mountain landscapes that will have your followers asking “That’s Honduras?”, head to Celaque National Park near the town of Gracias. Home to Honduras’ highest peak (Cerro Las Minas at 2,870 meters), this cloud forest offers mystical, moody photography opportunities unlike anywhere else in the country.

The most photogenic trail is the main route toward the summit, particularly the section between 2,000-2,500 meters where the cloud forest is at its most ethereal. Twisted, moss-covered trees emerge from the mist, creating otherworldly scenes that almost look like something from a fantasy film. I made the rookie mistake of visiting midday on my first trip – the light was harsh and the clouds had lifted. The magic hours here are early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) when mist is most likely to swirl through the trees.

The park entrance fee is 180 Lempiras (about $7 USD), and camping is allowed at designated sites if you want to capture sunrise or sunset from within the park. I spent one night camping at 2,400 meters, and waking up above the clouds for sunrise was worth every minute of the challenging hike.

💰 Money-saving insider tip: Most tourists book multi-day treks through agencies in Gracias at $50-80 per day. Instead, I connected with local guides through the visitor center at the park entrance and paid just 600 Lempiras ($24) for a full day of guiding. Bring your own food and water to save even more. Just be sure to negotiate and confirm prices in advance.

Urban Photography: Tegucigalpa and Colonial Gems

Tegucigalpa: Urban Grit and Historical Charm

Honduras’ capital gets a bad rap for safety concerns, but with common sense precautions, Tegucigalpa offers compelling urban photography that few tourists capture. The dramatic setting – a city nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains – creates stunning vistas, particularly from elevated viewpoints.

My favorite spot for cityscape photography is from El Picacho, home to the giant Christ statue overlooking the city. Entrance costs 60 Lempiras ($2.40), and I recommend going about an hour before sunset to capture the golden light washing over the city, followed by the twinkling lights as evening falls. The winding road up to El Picacho offers several pull-offs with unique angles of the city below.

For street photography, the historic center around the Cathedral and Plaza Morazán offers colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and authentic moments. I’ve found that Sundays after morning church services provide the most lively scenes, with families promenading in their best clothes and street vendors selling everything from fresh mangoes to handicrafts.

I won’t sugarcoat it – I had my phone snatched while taking photos in the market area during my first visit. Since then, I’ve learned to be more discreet, using a small camera rather than a smartphone, keeping aware of my surroundings, and sometimes hiring a local photography student as a guide (usually 300-400 Lempiras for a few hours).

Comayagua: Colonial Perfection

For pristine colonial architecture without the safety concerns of the capital, Comayagua is Honduras’ photographic gem. The former capital city preserves Spanish colonial architecture centered around one of Central America’s most beautiful central plazas.

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception with its ornate façade and ancient astronomical clock (the oldest in the Americas) is the photographic centerpiece. The interior photographs beautifully in late morning when light streams through the stained glass windows. For exterior shots, early evening (around 5-6 PM) bathes the white façade in golden light, creating a stunning contrast with the blue sky.

The central plaza comes alive on weekends, offering opportunities to capture authentic Honduran life – elderly men playing chess, families enjoying ice cream, and occasionally live music or dance performances. In 2025, the city continues its ongoing restoration project, meaning even more picture-perfect colonial buildings than during my first visit in 2018.

Don’t miss photographing Comayagua’s famous alfombras (sawdust carpets) if you visit during Easter week. These intricate street artworks created for religious processions offer spectacular overhead shots, especially from the balconies of restaurants surrounding the main square.

🌿 Sustainable travel tip: When photographing in Comayagua, consider purchasing prints from Proyecto Fotográfico Comayagua Colonial, a local initiative that trains young photographers while documenting the city’s architectural heritage. For around 250 Lempiras ($10), you get beautiful souvenirs while supporting cultural preservation. Their studio is two blocks north of the cathedral.

Caribbean Culture: The Garifuna Communities of Tela

For photographers seeking to capture unique cultural moments, Honduras’ Garifuna communities along the northern coast offer incredible opportunities. Descended from shipwrecked African slaves who intermarried with indigenous Caribs, Garifuna culture combines African, Caribbean, and indigenous influences.

Miami Beach and Triunfo de la Cruz

Near the beach town of Tela, the Garifuna villages of Miami Beach and Triunfo de la Cruz offer authentic cultural experiences and photogenic settings. The combination of thatched-roof huts, fishing boats, and miles of pristine beaches make for stunning compositions, especially at sunrise when fishermen head out and the golden light bathes everything in warm tones.

I’ve found that visiting on weekends increases your chances of witnessing traditional punta dancing or drumming sessions, which make for dynamic action shots. The rhythmic movements and colorful clothing against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea create memorable images.

Remember that photographing people requires permission and sensitivity. My approach has been to spend time in the community first without my camera, perhaps enjoying a meal at a local restaurant (try the coconut fish soup or machuca – I still dream about the version I had at Restaurant Luisa in Triunfo de la Cruz). Only after establishing some rapport do I ask to take photos, and I always offer to send copies to the subjects if they’re interested.

A phrase I’ve found helpful: “¿Puedo tomar una foto? Es para recordar su hermosa cultura” (May I take a photo? It’s to remember your beautiful culture).

Garifuna Festivals and Celebrations

If you can time your visit, Garifuna Settlement Day (April 12) offers spectacular photography opportunities. The reenactment of the Garifuna arrival to Honduran shores includes traditional canoes, music, dance, and vibrant costumes. In 2025, communities are planning larger celebrations as part of cultural revival efforts following the pandemic’s impact on tourism.

The lighting for these events can be challenging, as many celebrations happen at dawn or dusk. I’ve found that a fast prime lens (f/1.8 or faster) and a camera that performs well in low light are worth the investment. During my last visit, I rented a Sony A7III specifically for these low-light conditions, and the difference in image quality compared to my older camera was dramatic.

Garifuna Festival	Date	Location	Photographic Highlights
Garifuna Settlement Day	April 12	Tela and surrounding villages	Canoe landings, traditional dress, dancing
Yurumein	November 19	Triunfo de la Cruz	Dance processions, drumming, colorful attire
Jankunu (Wanaragua) Festival	December 25-January 6	Miami Beach	Masked dancers, elaborate costumes, night performances

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations

Yojoa Lake: Reflections and Waterfalls

Lake Yojoa, Honduras’ largest natural lake, offers diverse photographic opportunities in a setting that remains relatively untouched by international tourism. The lake itself is best photographed in early morning when the water is typically calm, creating perfect reflections of the surrounding mountains.

My favorite spot is the eastern shore near the small town of Los Naranjos, where wetlands provide foreground interest and attract numerous bird species. I once spent a magical morning here as the mist rose off the water, revealing fishing boats silhouetted against the sunrise – one of those perfect moments where you feel grateful to be a photographer.

Around the lake, don’t miss the spectacular Pulhapanzak Waterfall, a 43-meter cascade that creates dramatic spray and rainbows on sunny mornings. The entrance fee is 120 Lempiras ($5), and guides offer tours that take you behind the waterfall for unique perspectives (an additional 200 Lempiras). Bring a waterproof case for your phone or camera – I learned this lesson the hard way when my first waterproof case turned out to be less waterproof than advertised!

💰 Money-saving insider tip: Most tourists stay at the upscale D&D Brewery near the lake, paying $40-60 per night. Instead, I discovered the family-run Finca Las Glorias on the western shore where private lakefront cabins cost just 750 Lempiras ($30) per night. They’ll even let you use their kayaks for free if you stay two nights, perfect for capturing sunrise over the lake from the water.

Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve: The Final Frontier

For the truly adventurous photographer seeking images few others have captured, the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve in La Mosquitia offers unparalleled opportunities. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains some of the last untouched rainforest in Central America, along with indigenous communities living traditional lifestyles.

I won’t pretend this is an easy location to photograph – reaching the reserve requires either a small plane to Brus Laguna or a long boat journey from the town of Batalla. Once there, you’ll need to arrange local guides and permission to visit indigenous communities. The entire journey took me eight days, but the resulting images were unlike anything in my portfolio.

The photographic highlights include the meandering Río Plátano itself, best captured from elevated viewpoints where you can see it snaking through pristine rainforest. The traditional stilt houses of the Miskito and Pech indigenous groups make for compelling architectural studies, especially in the golden hour when smoke from cooking fires creates atmospheric layers.

Wildlife photographers will find this region particularly rewarding – I encountered spider monkeys, scarlet macaws, and even a jaguar footprint during my visit. A telephoto lens is essential, as is extreme patience. I spent four hours in a makeshift blind to capture a family of howler monkeys moving through the canopy.

If this extreme adventure appeals to you, budget at least 25,000 Lempiras ($1,000) for the experience, including transportation, guides, and basic accommodations in local homes. The La Mosquitia Ecotourism Alliance can help arrange responsible visits that benefit local communities.

Urban Street Art: San Pedro Sula’s Renaissance

San Pedro Sula has been working hard to change its reputation as one of the world’s most dangerous cities. In 2025, the city’s revitalization continues, with urban art playing a major role in transforming once-dangerous neighborhoods into vibrant cultural spaces.

Barrio Río de Piedras Murals

The Barrio Río de Piedras neighborhood has become San Pedro Sula’s street art hub, with local and international artists creating massive murals that tell stories of Honduran culture, history, and resilience. The contrast between colorful art and urban textures creates compelling photographic compositions.

I recommend visiting with a local guide (the tourism office can recommend reputable options) who can explain the stories behind the murals and ensure you’re photographing in safe areas. The best light for these murals is during the late afternoon when the sun isn’t casting harsh shadows across the artwork.

What surprised me most about photographing here was the warm reception from local residents, many of whom proudly pointed out their favorite murals and sometimes offered to pose beside them. These human interactions added depth to my images and created more meaningful stories to share alongside the photos.

After my camera was stolen in Tegucigalpa on my first Honduras trip, I was admittedly nervous about photographing in San Pedro Sula. I took precautions – using a cross-body camera strap, keeping my gear minimal, and staying aware of my surroundings – but found that the revitalized arts districts felt much safer than I expected. Still, I wouldn’t recommend wandering with expensive equipment after dark.

💡 Photography tip: When shooting street art, try including pedestrians or traffic to add scale and human interest. I often set up my composition and then wait patiently for someone interesting to walk into the frame – a technique street photographers call “fishing.”

Practical Photography Tips for Honduras

Best Gear for Honduran Conditions

Honduras presents unique challenges for photographers, from high humidity in the rainforests to harsh sunlight on the beaches. Based on five visits photographing across the country, here’s what I’ve found works best:

Weather-sealed equipment is worth the investment. The humidity in rainforest areas like Pico Bonito can wreak havoc on electronics. My non-weather-sealed camera developed fungus in the lens after just two weeks in Honduras.
Bring twice as many batteries as you think you’ll need. Power outages are common, especially in smaller towns, and the heat drains batteries faster than in temperate climates.
ND filters are essential for waterfall photography, allowing you to create those silky-smooth water effects even in bright conditions.
A good polarizing filter helps cut glare on water and foliage, particularly useful in the Bay Islands where the contrast between turquoise water and white sand can challenge your camera’s dynamic range.
For underwater photography, I’ve found that simple waterproof housings for smartphones now produce surprisingly good results. If you’re not a serious underwater photographer, this is more practical than investing in expensive underwater camera gear.

Safety Considerations for Photographers

Being honest about safety is important. I’ve had both completely trouble-free visits and one unfortunate incident with theft. Here’s my practical advice:

Use a nondescript camera bag rather than one that screams “expensive equipment inside.” I use a converted daypack that doesn’t look like a camera bag at all.
In urban areas, use a cross-body strap and keep your camera on the side away from the street to prevent drive-by snatch-and-grab theft.
Consider bringing a decoy wallet with expired cards and a small amount of cash if photographing in urban areas. I keep my real valuables in a hidden money belt.
Back up your images daily. I use portable SSD drives and, when internet is available, cloud storage.
Get travel insurance that specifically covers camera equipment. After my theft experience, I now use World Nomads which offers good coverage for photography gear.

Best Seasons for Photography in Honduras

Honduras has distinct dry and rainy seasons that significantly impact photography conditions:

Season	Months	Best For	Challenges
Dry Season	December-April	Bay Islands, beaches, reliable sunlight	Harsher light, dusty conditions inland
Early Rainy Season	May-July	Waterfalls, lush landscapes, fewer tourists	Afternoon storms, occasional road closures
Peak Rainy Season	August-November	Dramatic skies, flowing waterfalls	Potential flooding, difficult access to remote areas

My personal favorite time to photograph Honduras is late April to early June, when you get the lushness of early rains without the persistent downpours of the peak rainy season. The light is softer, waterfalls are flowing, and landscapes are vibrant green rather than the dusty brown of the late dry season.

One mistake I made on my first visit was arriving in March, expecting lush rainforest conditions. Instead, I found muted colors and hazy skies from agricultural burning. Timing really does matter for photography in Honduras.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Plan for Incredible Honduras Photos

After five visits and countless memory cards filled with images of Honduras, I’ve come to appreciate this country as one of Central America’s most underrated photography destinations. From ancient Mayan ruins to pristine Caribbean beaches, cloud forests to vibrant urban centers, Honduras offers incredible diversity for photographers willing to venture beyond the standard tourist trail.

Here’s my 5-step action plan to help you capture the best of Honduras in 2025:

Plan your visit strategically – Aim for the transitional seasons (April-June or November-December) when you’ll get good weather without peak tourist crowds. Research the specific light conditions for your priority locations and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Invest in appropriate gear protection – Purchase good quality dry bags, silica gel packets, and weather-appropriate protection for your equipment. The combination of humidity, salt air, and dust can damage unprotected gear quickly.
Connect with local photographers – Join Honduras photography Facebook groups like “Fotografía en Honduras” or “Honduras a través del lente” before your trip to connect with local photographers who can offer updated advice on conditions and locations.
Build in buffer days – Transportation in Honduras can be unpredictable. Allow flexible days in your schedule so you can return to a location if the light or weather wasn’t ideal on your first visit. Some of my best images came from return visits to locations.
Learn basic Spanish phrases for photographers – Simple phrases like “¿Puedo tomar fotos aquí?” (Can I take photos here?) and “¿Me permite fotografiarlo/a?” (May I photograph you?) will greatly enhance your experience and the cooperation you receive.

Remember that the most meaningful travel photography isn’t just about collecting beautiful images – it’s about connecting with places and people in ways that respectfully tell their stories. Honduras has given me not only some of my most-liked Instagram posts but also some of my most meaningful travel experiences.

Whether you’re shooting with a professional camera setup or simply using your smartphone, Honduras will reward your photographic eye with unique compositions and perspectives that stand out in a world of increasingly homogenized travel imagery.

¡Buen viaje y buena fotografía! (Good journey and good photography!)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel around Honduras with expensive camera equipment?

With proper precautions, yes. I’ve traveled extensively throughout Honduras with camera gear worth several thousand dollars. The key is to be discreet, especially in urban areas. Use nondescript bags, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid displaying equipment unnecessarily. In tourist areas like Roatán, Copán, and national parks, safety concerns are minimal. In larger cities like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, exercise more caution by using taxis for transportation between locations and researching safe areas in advance. I recommend getting specific insurance for your photography equipment through providers like World Nomads.

When is the best time of year to photograph Honduras?

For most locations, the transitional periods between dry and rainy seasons offer the best photographic conditions. Late April through early June provides lush landscapes without the persistent downpours of peak rainy season. The Bay Islands generally photograph beautifully year-round, though February to May typically offers the best underwater visibility for marine photography. If you’re specifically interested in photographing cultural events, plan around festivals like Semana Santa (Easter week) for the incredible alfombras in Comayagua or Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations in April.

Do I need permits to photograph in Honduran national parks or archaeological sites?

Standard entrance tickets to national parks and archaeological sites like Copán include permission for personal photography. However, if you’re using a tripod at Copán, there’s an additional fee of about 125 Lempiras ($5). For commercial photography or filming, you’ll need special permits obtained through the Honduran Institute of Anthropology and History (for archaeological sites) or ICF (National Institute of Forest Conservation) for national parks. These should be arranged at least a month in advance. I’ve found that having a local fixer or tour operator assist with these permits makes the process much smoother.

What’s the internet connectivity like for backing up photos?

Internet connectivity varies dramatically throughout Honduras. In major cities and popular tourist destinations like Roatán and Copán, you’ll find reliable high-speed internet suitable for backing up photos to cloud storage. In more remote areas like La Mosquitia or rural mountain towns, connectivity is limited or non-existent. I recommend bringing portable hard drives (at least two for redundancy) and backing up nightly. When you reach areas with good connectivity, then upload to cloud storage as a secondary backup. Many higher-end hotels and some cafes in tourist areas offer reasonably fast Wi-Fi suitable for uploads.

Are there any cultural sensitivities I should be aware of when photographing people in Honduras?

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in indigenous and Garifuna communities where there may be specific cultural sensitivities. A simple “¿Puedo tomar su foto?” (May I take your photo?) goes a long way. In some indigenous communities, particularly in more remote areas, there may be beliefs about photography “capturing the soul.” I’ve found that offering to send copies of photos (either printed or digital) is both respectful and often opens doors. When photographing children, always get permission from parents or guardians first. Some communities may request a small donation for photography, especially if you’re spending significant time there.

What camera gear do you recommend for a photography trip to Honduras?

Based on my experience, I recommend a versatile kit that can handle diverse conditions. A weather-sealed camera body paired with a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens covers most situations well. Add a wide-angle lens (16-35mm or similar) for landscapes and architecture, and a telephoto (70-200mm) for wildlife and portraits from a respectful distance. For underwater photography in the Bay Islands, a good action camera like the latest GoPro or a dedicated underwater housing for your main camera is worth the investment. Bring plenty of batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies – the humidity and salt air can be challenging for equipment. If weight is a concern, I’ve found that a high-quality smartphone paired with a midrange mirrorless camera and versatile zoom can still capture excellent images.