Border Approximate Location
Nearest Cities
🇬🇹 Corinto, 🇭🇳 Omoa
Coordinates
15.67°N, 88.03°W
Border Type
Land crossing via road
Operating Hours
Open 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wait Times
30-90 min for pedestrians/vehicles
Peak Times
Mornings (6-9 AM)
Crossing Types
Pedestrians, vehicles
Daily Crossings
~2000 travelers/vehicles
Languages Spoken
Spanish
Currency Exchange
Limited near Corinto (GTQ, HNL)
Accessibility Features
Ramps, assistance
Safety Information
Rural, minimal crime
About Corinto & Omoa Border Crossing
Warning and Introduction
Stay alert at the Corinto-Omoa border crossing, also known as Corinto Frontera or Omoa Integrated Border: unofficial fees and pushy touts are common, so check official sources to avoid overpaying. This crossing links Guatemala’s Izabal department with Honduras’ Cortés department along the CA-13 highway, connecting Puerto Barrios to Omoa and Puerto Cortés. It’s a vital route for travelers heading to San Pedro Sula or Rio Dulce, but disruptions, like the November 2020 closures due to hurricanes Eta and Iota, mean you need to plan carefully. The crossing’s Caribbean setting and trade role make it lively, but caution is key.
Historical and Geopolitical Context
The 256 km Guatemala-Honduras border, established by the 1859 Wyke-Aycinena Treaty and marked by 1,028 pillars in 1933, has seen occasional tensions, including Guatemala’s past claims over Belize affecting regional dynamics. The Corinto-Omoa crossing facilitates trade in bananas, seafood, and electronics, with Honduras importing 15% of its goods from Guatemala. Rebuilt after hurricanes Eta and Iota in 2020, the integrated border post combines immigration and customs, using the DUCA-F electronic system to streamline processes. Its proximity to Puerto Cortés’ port and Omoa’s Garifuna communities adds cultural richness, blending Mayan and Caribbean influences. Migrant surges, noted in July 2025 at nearby crossings, highlight its geopolitical significance.
Before Crossing
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Crossing Procedures and Wait Times
Open from 5:30 AM to 9:50 PM, the Corinto-Omoa crossing features an integrated post with Guatemala and Honduras immigration and customs in one building. To exit Guatemala, visit the migration window, located 10 km before the border near Rio Negro; no official fee applies, but some report Q10-20 ($1.30-2.60 USD) “charges”—always request a receipt. Honduras entry requires a $3 USD (75 HNL) fee, payable in USD, quetzales, or lempiras, and a passport with six months’ validity; most nationalities get 90 days visa-free under the CA-4 agreement. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required if coming from a high-risk country. Wait times range from 20-60 minutes early morning to 1-2 hours during peak afternoons or holidays. Vehicles need a $2.34 USD fumigation fee and $20.78 USD Guatemala import permit; Honduras charges 800 HNL ($32 USD) for a temporary import permit, requiring copies of passport, license, and registration. A 2023 traveler reported a 1-hour crossing with friendly staff, though a 2018 scam involved a $40 USD vehicle overcharge, later refunded after confrontation. The process typically takes 45-120 minutes. Avoid Sundays, as banks are closed, complicating the 160 Q vehicle fee payment.
Route Details and Transportation
From Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, microbuses to Corinto take 1.5 hours (Q20, $2.60 USD), departing frequently from the main terminal. From Omoa, Honduras, buses to the border cost 45 HNL ($1.80 USD) and take 1.5 hours from Puerto Cortés. The CA-13 highway is paved, offering views of the Motagua River and lush hills, but flooding, like after Hurricane Julia in 2022, can disrupt travel. The border area has comedores with pupusas for $0.50 USD and a copy shop charging Q4 per document. Avoid touts offering “fast-track” services for $10-15; public buses to San Pedro Sula or Rio Dulce are steps away. A 2024 traveler noted a 2-hour crossing, eased by a pre-registration app. Evening transport is scarce, so plan for daytime travel.
Travel Tips and Scam Warnings
Exchange money in Puerto Barrios or Puerto Cortés, as border changers offer poor rates ($1:22 HNL vs. $1:24 HNL). Scams include $40 vehicle fees without receipts or Q20 “exit fees”; demand receipts and pay only official amounts. Carry USD or lempiras for Honduras’ fees, and have proof of onward travel and accommodation. Cross early to avoid crowds and secure transport. For vehicles, pre-register via Honduras’ migration app and bring document copies to streamline customs. Check for closures, as flooding or protests, like those in October 2022, can halt access. A Honduran SIM card ($5 USD) from Omoa ensures connectivity. Keep valuables secure near crowded comedores. A 2016 report described a quiet crossing but slow Guatemala migration with one officer.
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Significance
Omoa, 16 km away, boasts the 1756 Fortaleza de San Fernando and sandy beaches, while Puerto Barrios connects to Livingston’s Garifuna culture and Rio Dulce’s scenic river. The crossing supports trade in seafood and tourism, with Garifuna influences in Omoa’s markets and festivals. Try pescado frito for $2 USD at Omoa’s beachside stalls for a local flavor. The blend of Mayan and Caribbean cultures makes the area a vibrant hub.
Seasonal Considerations and Planning
The dry season (November-April) offers clear roads and mild temperatures (~25°C), ideal for crossing. The rainy season (May-October) risks flooding, as seen after Hurricane Julia in 2022, slowing border traffic. Holidays increase congestion, so cross early. Budget 4-5 hours from Puerto Barrios to San Pedro Sula, including 1-2 hours at the border. Stay in Puerto Cortés for better lodging than Omoa’s limited options. Carry USD, confirm health requirements like yellow fever vaccination, and monitor news for disruptions. With careful planning, this crossing connects you to Honduras’ Caribbean coast and Guatemala’s riverine beauty.