HNL currency explained and where you’ll find it

HNL currency means the Honduran Lempira, which serves as the official money in Honduras. People use this currency for daily purchases, travel expenses, and business transactions across the country. Travelers need to know about HNL currency before visiting Honduras. Collectors and those interested in world currencies often look for the Honduran Lempira.

Where is HNL currency used?

Country Overview

Honduras is the only country that uses the HNL currency. People in every part of Honduras use the Lempira for shopping, paying bills, and daily life. The currency is accepted in big cities like Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula. Small towns and villages also use the Lempira for all types of transactions. No other country or territory uses the HNL currency as its official money. Travelers will not find the Lempira in use outside Honduras.

Usage and Acceptance

People in Honduras use the Lempira everywhere. Stores, restaurants, hotels, and markets accept it. Both locals and visitors pay with the HNL currency for goods and services. Even in tourist areas and remote regions, the Lempira remains the main form of payment.

Outside Honduras, the Lempira is not accepted. Border towns and neighboring countries do not use the HNL currency for trade or purchases. In these areas, people prefer major currencies like the US dollar or the euro for cross-border business. Travelers should exchange any leftover Lempira before leaving Honduras because it is hard to use or exchange elsewhere.

HNL currency facts

Denominations

People in Honduras use different values of money every day. The HNL currency comes in both banknotes and coins. Banknotes are more common than coins. Most people use banknotes for shopping and paying bills. Coins are called centavos and are used less often.

Here is a table showing the main denominations:

The symbol for the Honduran Lempira is "L". People see this symbol before the number on both coins and banknotes. The Central Bank of Honduras, known as Banco Central de Honduras (BCH), issues all the money in the country. The BCH makes sure the HNL currency is safe and trusted.

Appearance and Features

Honduran banknotes show important parts of the country’s history and culture. Each note has special designs and security features to stop counterfeiting. The Central Bank of Honduras adds these features to protect the money.

These features make the HNL currency both secure and meaningful. The designs celebrate Honduras’s independence and natural beauty. The Central Bank of Honduras prints its seal on every note to show it is official.

Using HNL currency

Obtaining HNL

Travelers can get HNL currency in several reliable ways. ATMs in Honduras offer a convenient method to withdraw local cash. These machines are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Using ATMs often provides better exchange rates than airport currency counters, which usually charge higher fees. Many travelers choose travel money cards like Wise, Revolut, Chime, Monzo, or Netspend. These cards allow users to hold US dollars and convert them to Lempira either before the trip or during payment. Travel cards often come with low fees and extra security features, making them a popular choice.

Money transfer services such as World Remit and Wise let people send funds directly to Honduran bank accounts. These services usually offer better rates and faster transfers than traditional banks. Moneygram and Western Union are also available, but they tend to cost more. Travelers should avoid exchanging money at airports due to high fees. Combining a travel card with ATM withdrawals in Honduras gives the best value and flexibility.

Tips for Travelers

Handling money in Honduras requires some planning. Many shops, restaurants, and taxis prefer cash over cards. Some places do not accept cards or may charge high fees for card payments. ATMs sometimes have withdrawal limits or may not work, so keeping extra cash on hand is wise. US dollars are widely accepted in Honduras, especially in tourist areas and airports. However, travelers should carry small bills, such as $1, $5, or $20, to avoid problems with getting change.

Clean and undamaged bills are important. Vendors often reject torn or marked US dollars. Large bills are usually accepted only in banks, supermarkets, or big restaurants. Tipping is common, and sometimes included in the bill. Travelers should use trusted ATMs in secure locations and avoid isolated machines. HNL currency cannot be used outside Honduras, so exchanging any remaining cash before departure is essential.

HNL currency exchange rates

Comparison to USD

Travelers often compare the Honduran Lempira to the US Dollar. The exchange rate changes over time, but as of July 23, 2025, 1 Lempira equals about 0.03835 US Dollars. In reverse, 1 US Dollar equals about 26.073 Lempiras. The table below shows how much US Dollars different amounts of Lempiras are worth:

Over the last six months, the exchange rate has stayed mostly stable. The highest rate reached 0.03927 USD per Lempira on January 31, 2025. The lowest rate dropped to 0.03795 USD on July 11, 2025. On average, the rate was about 0.03864 USD. The Lempira lost about 3% of its value against the US Dollar during this period. In the past week, rates moved only a little, staying between 0.03795 and 0.03826 USD.

Where to Check Rates

People can find up-to-date exchange rates from several trusted sources. Xe.com gives live rates, currency converters, and tools for tracking changes. Many people use Xe.com for its accurate and real-time data. Western Union also provides current rates and lets users track money transfers. Their app helps travelers see live rates and send money quickly. XTransfer offers real-time market rates and secure payment services. It works every day, even on holidays, and gives alerts for rate changes.

Currency exchange rates can differ between banks, hotels, and exchange offices in Honduras. Hotels and airports often have higher fees and worse rates. Currency exchange offices usually offer better rates and clearer fees. Some services claim "zero fees" but may hide costs in the rate itself. Travel money cards like Wise can help travelers get fair rates and low fees.

Travelers in Honduras need to understand the local money system. The Lempira serves as the only accepted currency in the country. People use it for shopping, dining, and transportation. Knowing how to get and use cash helps visitors avoid problems. Reliable exchange rates and safe money practices make trips smoother. Anyone planning a visit or business trip should review these facts before arrival.

FAQ

Can travelers use US dollars in Honduras?

Many shops and hotels in Honduras accept US dollars, especially in tourist areas. Small businesses and local markets prefer Honduran Lempira. Travelers should carry both currencies for convenience.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Honduras?

Major hotels, restaurants, and stores in cities accept credit cards. Rural areas and small vendors often require cash. Travelers should always keep some Lempira for daily expenses.

What should someone do with leftover HNL currency?

Banks and exchange offices in Honduras can convert leftover Lempira to US dollars. Outside Honduras, exchanging HNL is difficult. Travelers should spend or exchange their remaining currency before leaving.

Is it safe to use ATMs in Honduras?

ATMs in Honduras provide a safe way to get cash. People should use machines in secure locations like banks or shopping centers. Covering the keypad and staying alert helps prevent theft.