The countryside of Honduras—areas accessible by foot only, not by vehicle—is normally quite safe from criminals, which only stands to reason: What kind of thief is going to bother venturing out into the mountains to rob dirt-poor campesinos? Once you are on the trail, you can stop worrying about banditos and start paying attention to finding your way and enjoying the scenery.

It is true, however, that certain rural highways are known for holdups and assaults. Particularly bad spots include western Olancho, northeastern Olancho around Dulce Nombre de Culmí, the highway in Olancho near San Esteban, parts of the north coast, and northern Francisco Morazán. These concerns are discussed in more detail in the destination chapters, and it is always smart to ask about current conditions when you arrive.

Natural dangers are always present when hiking and are no different in Honduras than most parts of the world. Bring sufficiently warm and dry clothes, enough food and water, a first-aid kit, a good tent to protect you from the elements and creepy-crawlies (or at least a jungle hammock), and—the basic rule of hiking—watch where you step!