Google Maps Location Approx
Border Countries
🇭🇳 Honduras 🇸🇻 El Salvador
Nearest Cities
🇭🇳 El Amatillo, 🇸🇻 La Unión
Coordinates
13.45°N, 87.65°W
Border Type
Land crossing via road
Operating Hours
Open 24 hours
Wait Times
30-120 min for pedestrians/vehicles
Peak Times
Mornings (6-9 AM), weekends
Crossing Types
Pedestrians, vehicles, commercial
Daily Crossings
~7000 travelers/vehicles
Languages Spoken
Spanish
Currency Exchange
Available near El Amatillo (HNL, USD)
Connectivity Options
Wi-Fi at checkpoints, 4G
Accessibility Features
Ramps, elevators
Safety Information
Busy, caution at night
Emergency Contacts
🇭🇳 911 🇸🇻 911
Google Maps Location Approx
Country Information
About 🇭🇳 El Amatillo, 🇸🇻 La Unión
Warning and Introduction
Stay on guard at the El Amatillo-La Unión border crossing, also known as El Amatillo Integrated Border or Goascorán Crossing: scams like fake fees are rampant, and armed robberies targeting travelers within 20 km of the border have been reported, so check official sources. This crossing, spanning the Goascorán River between Honduras’ Valle department and El Salvador’s La Unión department, connects Tegucigalpa with San Salvador along the Pan-American Highway. The integrated border post, launched in December 2023, streamlines trade but demands vigilance due to security concerns.
Historical and Geopolitical Context
The 402 km Honduras-El Salvador border, established in 1841 after the Federal Republic of Central America’s dissolution, runs from the Gulf of Fonseca to the Montecristo tripoint. El Amatillo, a key trade point for textiles and electronics, handles 440 vehicles daily, with El Salvador importing 8.2% of its goods from Honduras. The 2023 integrated border post, supported by SIECA and the US, uses the DUCA-F system to simplify customs. Historical tensions, like the 1992 ICJ ruling over Gulf of Fonseca islands and the ongoing Isla Conejo dispute, add complexity. The crossing’s role in Pacific coast trade and tourism underscores its regional importance.
Crossing Procedures and Wait Times
Open 24 hours, the El Amatillo-La Unión crossing uses an integrated post in El Salvador, with both countries’ officials in one building. Exit Honduras with a digital stamp (no physical stamp); no fee applies, but some report $3 USD (75 HNL) “charges”—demand a receipt. Enter El Salvador with a $10 USD tourist card for some nationalities and proof of onward travel; most get 90 days visa-free under the CA-4 agreement. Wait times are 30-60 minutes early morning, up to 2 hours in the afternoon. Vehicles require a 900 HNL ($36 USD) Honduras permit and El Salvador’s $10-12 USD import fee; bring passport, license, and registration copies. UK citizens may need a $60 USD visa due to 2025 reciprocal measures. The process takes 1-2 hours, with 2025 reports noting a relaxed vibe and no photography restrictions.
Route Details and Transportation
From Tegucigalpa, buses to El Amatillo take 3 hours (100 HNL, $4 USD) from Mirna Bus Terminal. From La Unión, El Salvador, bus 426 to Santa Rosa de Lima takes 1 hour ($1 USD), connecting to San Salvador. The CA-1 highway is paved, with views of the Goascorán River and coffee fields, but heavy truck traffic (300 containers daily) can cause delays. The border has pupusa stalls ($0.50 USD) and a copy shop (Q4 per copy). Avoid touts charging $10 for “fast-track” services; buses to San Salvador are nearby. A 2022 guide noted no direct La Unión-border service, requiring a taxi (10-15 minutes).
Travel Tips and Scam Warnings
Use ATMs in Tegucigalpa or La Unión; border changers offer poor rates ($1:22 HNL vs. $1:24 HNL). Scams include $10 “exit fees” or overpriced taxis; demand receipts and pay official amounts. Carry USD for El Salvador’s fees and proof of onward travel. Cross early to avoid crowds and robberies, reported within 20 km of the border. For vehicles, pre-register via Honduras’ CENTREX system and bring document copies. Monitor news for protests or closures. A Salvadoran SIM card ($5 USD) ensures connectivity. A 2024 traveler noted a streamlined process but warned of sketchy surroundings on Honduras’ side.
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Significance
La Unión offers Gulf of Fonseca boat tours, while Honduras’ Valle department has San Lorenzo’s seafood markets. The crossing supports trade and tourism, blending Lenca and Salvadoran cultures, seen in pupusas ($0.50 USD) and local festivals. El Amatillo’s markets sell crafts, reflecting Pacific coast vibrancy.
Seasonal Considerations and Planning
The dry season (November-April) brings clear roads and mild weather (~25°C), ideal for crossing. The rainy season (May-October) risks flooding, slowing traffic. Holidays increase congestion, so cross early. Budget 5-6 hours from Tegucigalpa to San Salvador, including 1-2 hours at the border. Stay in San Salvador for better lodging than La Unión’s options. Carry USD, confirm CA-4 visa days, and monitor news for security risks. With care, this crossing connects you to El Salvador’s capital and Honduras’ coastal trade hubs.