Honduras mixes colonial towns, coastal beaches and island life, and safety can vary city by city. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, it’s useful to focus on places with lower crime while still enjoying local culture and services.
There are 7 Safest Cities in Honduras, ranging from Comayagua to Utila. For each city, data is organized as Country, Homicide rate (per 100k), Travel advisory (level) to help you compare risks quickly — you’ll find below.
How safe are these cities for tourists?
These cities tend to have lower homicide rates and more stable local conditions than other parts of the country, but safety is relative: use common-sense precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night, securing valuables, and following local advice and travel advisories while visiting.
How up-to-date are the homicide rates and travel advisory levels?
The figures reflect the most recent public statistics and government advisories available at the time of writing, but both crime data and advisories can change—check official government sites and local sources shortly before travel for the latest information.
Safest Cities in Honduras
City | Country | Homicide rate (per 100k) | Travel advisory (level) |
---|---|---|---|
Roatán | Honduras | 9 | Exempt from highest warnings; exercise increased caution. |
Utila | Honduras | 9 | Exempt from highest warnings; exercise increased caution. |
Copán Ruinas | Honduras | 18 | Exempt from “avoid travel” advisories from UK; tourist police present. |
Gracias | Honduras | 12 | Located in a department with one of the lowest crime rates. |
La Esperanza | Honduras | 16 | Situated in a historically calm department with no major advisories. |
Comayagua | Honduras | 28 | Increased security presence due to the new international airport. |
Santa Rosa de Copán | Honduras | 25 | Generally avoids the high crime levels of major industrial cities. |
Images and Descriptions

Roatán
A tourism-focused island with a dedicated police presence, Roatán is considered one of the safest destinations for visitors, especially in its well-traveled west end.

Utila
Part of the Bay Islands, this world-famous dive spot maintains a relaxed atmosphere with crime rates significantly lower than the mainland, making it popular with backpackers.

Copán Ruinas
Home to famous Mayan ruins, this small town is protected by a dedicated tourist police force and an economy reliant on safe travel, making it a highland safe haven.

Gracias
This charming colonial city is the capital of Lempira, a department with consistently low violent crime rates, offering a peaceful and authentic mountain town experience.

La Esperanza
Known for its cool climate and rich Lenca culture, La Esperanza is located in the Intibucá department, an area with consistently low crime statistics.

Comayagua
A historic former capital, Comayagua benefits from new infrastructure and a strong security presence, making it relatively safer than other major transportation hubs on the mainland.

Santa Rosa de Copán
This western highland city is a hub for coffee culture and commerce. It offers a safer urban environment compared to the country’s northern industrial corridor.