Is Tela Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Tela can be a bit of a challenge for solo female travelers mainly due to safety concerns. Though it's a beautiful place to visit, Tela has a reputation for criminal activity. As a solo female traveler, it's recommended to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid isolated areas, carry minimal valuables and seek local advice about safety before going out. Public transport can be risky so you might want to consider reliable taxis or trusted ride services. As long as you take these precautions, your travel should be relatively hassle-free.

Safety rating

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How safe is Tela?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

Tela, is rich in natural beauty and cultural appeal, however, travelling alone at night might not be advisable. This city is known to have occasional criminal activities especially after dusk, with petty thefts and mugging being the most common. Though incidents of violence against tourists are relatively fewer, but can happen. It is always highly recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid empty streets, and not flaunt your valuables when walking alone at night.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Tela mostly involves shared vans, taxis, and bus services. They are relatively safe during daylight hours, however, as a solo female traveler, it is advisable to be cautious especially during nocturnal hours due to minimal lighting and reduced street activity. Additionally, keep an eye on your belongings as petty theft may occur. It's recommended to use licensed taxis or travel in groups when possible.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

While Tela is a beautiful and vibrant city with amazing sights, it is also important to exercise caution as a solo female traveler. Like many places, there is an occurrence of street harassment, although at a moderate level. It is advised to dress modestly and avoid attracting unnecessary attention. Also, avoid walking alone at night in areas that are not well lit or do not have a lot of people around. As always, being alert and aware of your surroundings is crucial. Respect local customs and societal norms, which go a long way in reducing unwanted attention. In general, locals are friendly and helpful, and issues are usually not the norm.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:High

Tela is a beautiful but challenging destination in Honduras where petty crimes like pickpocketing, phone snatching, and bag slashing often occur, especially in crowded markets and bus stations. Always be alert and aware of your surroundings, keeping personal belongings securely fastened and valuable items hidden from sight. It's advisable to not flash your expensive possessions. During the night, the risk can increase, therefore it's recommended to stay in well-populated areas and not travel alone if possible.
Tap water:

Tap water:Unsafe

Tela, like many other places in Honduras, does not have a strong and reliable sanitation system. Though the water leaving the treatment plants is often clean, it can get contaminated through the pipelines. Therefore, it's recommended to avoid drinking tap water directly. Instead use bottled, boiled or treated water to ensure safety from waterborne diseases.

Is Tela safe to travel?

Is Tela safe right now?

Before your visit to Tela, it's essential to check travel advisories for Honduras, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
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United States Travel AdvisoryReconsider your need to travel

The United States Government advises to reconsider traveling to Honduras due to crime and kidnapping. Certain areas may pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 17, 2023
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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Honduras due to crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 15, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Honduras overall, due to the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: February 23, 2024

Safety in Honduras