While Costa Rica and, to some extent, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Panama get all the attention, Honduras has quietly crept out of nowhere to become one of Central America's adventure tourism hotspots. It's not just diving anymore. You can take a canopy tour, windsurf, protect a turtle habitat, or go bird-watching.

An infinite number of ways to plan an active vacation in Honduras exist. Here we lay out your options, from tour operators who run multi-activity package tours that often include stays at eco-lodges, to the best places in Honduras to pursue active endeavors (with listings of tour operators, guides, and outfitters that specialize in each), to an overview of the country's national parks and bio-reserves. I also list some language learning and volunteer travel options for those of you with a little more time on your hands and a desire to actively assist Honduras in the maintenance and preservation of its natural wonders.

Adventure activities and tourism, by their very nature, carry certain risks and dangers. Over the years, there have been several deaths and dozens of minor injuries in activities ranging from mountain biking to whitewater rafting to canopy tours. Regulation is lacking in Honduras for many activities; therefore, I try to list only the most reputable and safest of companies. Some may carry higher fees than others, though any tour operator that is offering questionable prices should be questioned. Often, tour operators will try to cut corners to give the lowest price, but when a problem occurs, they shut down and then open again under another name. Obviously, I don't list those. If you ever have any doubt as to the safety of the guide, equipment, or activity, it's better to be safe than sorry. Moreover, know your limits and abilities, and don't try to exceed them.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.