Roatán TRAVEL TIPS
Getting to the Island
United, Delta, and American, Airlines fly directly from the U.S. to Roatan. The Roatan ferry also runs twice daily from the island to the city of La Ceiba on the Honduras mainland.
Visa and Passport Requirements
To enter Honduras all travelers are required to have a valid passport for at least 6-months from the date of entry. A visa is not required, but tourists must provide evidence of return or onward travel after their Roatan vacation. Travelers are encouraged to carry a photocopy of their passports with them at all times, so that if questioned by local officials proof of identity is readily available. When leaving Honduras there is an exit tax but should all ready be included in your airline ticket.
Language
The national language is Spanish, however English is the predominant language of Roatan.
Currency
The currency of Honduras is the Lempira. For the most current exchange rate, click here. U.S. dollars are accepted at nearly all locations on Roatan. There are ATM machines in French Harbor, Coxen Hole, West End, and West Bay. Credit cards are accepted at many places, however there is usually a service fee, and it is best if you plan to pay in cash. When bringing money to the island it is advisable to bring newer bills without rips, tears, or markings on them. Travelers checks are not readily accepted.
Climate
Roatan’s weather is very tropical consisting of many sunny days, warm temperatures, and cool breezes. The rainy season typically begins toward the end of October and runs through the beginning of January offering some relief from the heat, which can be very refreshing. For more details on Roatan’s weather throughout the year including average temperature, sunshine and rainfall click here.
What to Bring
The dress is casual on Roatan. Typical attire includes bathing suits, shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses, and sunglasses. You may want to bring a lightweight long-sleeved shirt and pants as protection from the intense sun, and during the rainy months, a light sweater, or jacket is also beneficial. For footwear, we recommend water socks, sandals, or flip flops for your Roatan vacation.
Electricity & Internet
Roatan has 110-volt electricity, so a converter is not needed for U.S. appliances. Upachaya also offers free Wi-Fi for your convenience.
Water
All tap water at Upachaya is well water, and safe for drinking. We also offer bottled water in refillable containers.
Transportation
Transportation arrangements can be arranged and coordinated on your behalf to and from the airport or cruise ship terminal for an additional fee.
Safety
Roatan is safe for visitors. However, take normal precautions when walking at night or walking in remote areas.
health check
While COVID-19 has changed the way that we currently travel, we at Upachaya, and in Roatan, are taking all precautionary measures to make sure that you can enjoy the island with ease.
72 hours prior to your travel date, pre-register at http://prechequeo.inm.gob.hn to complete all required information regarding your scheduled trip, customs forms, health form and to upload your vaccine card or COVID-19 test results.
If you have been vaccinated against COVID-19, you are to present the ORIGINAL card given to you at the vaccination site upon arrival in Honduras. You must have completed the full vaccine (2 doses) a minimum of 14 days prior to your arrival date in order to be exempt from presenting a negative test.
If you have not been fully vaccinated or if your second dose was received less than 14 days prior to arriving in Honduras, you will need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country. The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to your entry into Honduras.
Masks are currently still required in the Roatan International Airport, if you do not have a mask on-hand the airport staff will provide you with one.