Crafts

Although not as well known as Guatemala for handicrafts, Honduras [1] does offer several unique artesanías for tourists to purchase during their trips. Several villages near Tegucigalpa [2], especially Valle de Ángeles [3], are known for their woodcarvings and leatherwork, while Ojojona [4] is a good place to buy simple pottery. Painted “Lenca pottery” with black and white designs can be found all around the country and is cheapest outside of Nacaome [5], where it is produced, while authentic brick-colored Lencan pottery can be bought in Gracias [6] and the surrounding villages.

The region around Santa Bárbara [7] is famed for producing junco-palm goods, from simple mats to baskets and hats. When buying junco, take a good look at the weave—the tighter the weave, the finer the quality and the higher the price.

On the north coast, you can buy traditional drums of the Garífuna, along with carvings, paintings, and recordings of punta music. Items made in the Mosquitia out of tuno, a beaten bark, can be found in gift shops across the country.