La Ceiba: When to Go

Honduras experiences a rainy season and a dry season, known locally as invierno (winter) and verano (summer) respectively. On the north coast where La Ceiba is located, the rainy season is later in the year, from September to December. Hurricanes are most likely from September to October, though they rarely hit Honduras directly. However, even a far-off hurricane can cause heavy rain, flooding or minor mudslides.

Travel is easier during the dry season. Then again, the forests and countryside are more lush during the rainy season. February and March are probably the best months to visit because the weather is fairly stable.

La Ceiba's patron-saint festival, La Feria de San Isidro, has morphed into one of the country's largest festivals. Also known as the Gran Carnival Nacional (Great National Carnival), it culminates on the third Saturday in May - crowds start arriving mid-week and 'mini-celebrations' in neighborhoods around town start even earlier. Over a quarter of a million people come for parades, street performances, floats and - after night falls - raucous partying at La Ceiba's nightclubs. Needless to say, if you want to join in the fun, book your accommodation well in advance.

Weather

La Ceiba's position on the Caribbean coast means it's warmer than the interior of the country and more humid year-round. Temperatures range from 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (89°F) in the dry season; they're slightly cooler (and more comfortable) in the rainy season, which generally runs from September to January (with a chance of severe storms any time of the year, so be prepared). Hurricane season is from August to November. Although hurricanes rarely hit directly, take all necessary precuations if there are warnings.

Temperature (average ° C)

Rainfall (average mm)