ROATAN TRAVEL TIPS
Flying To Roatan Airport: Everything You Need To Know
Yes — flying into Roatan is straightforward, and the airport is small enough that you can be through immigration and in a taxi within 30–60 minutes of landing. That said, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s everything you need to know before you arrive at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (airport code: RTB).
About Roatan Airport (RTB)
Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport, known locally as Roatan Airport, is located on the island’s main road in Coxen Hole — just a short drive from Sandy Bay, West End, and West Bay. It is a small airport that handles both domestic and international flights. Facilities are basic but functional: there is a small café, a few shops, and currency is not exchanged on site.
Direct Flights to Roatan
Roatan is served by direct international flights from the United States and Central America. Airlines with documented service to RTB include American Airlines, United Airlines, and Copa Airlines. Seasonal and charter routes vary by year. Before booking, check directly with airlines or a travel agent for the most current non-stop routes from your departure city, as schedules change between peak and off-peak seasons.
TIP:
Use the IATA code RTB when searching for flights to ensure you're booking the correct Roatan airport — not Tegucigalpa (TGU) or San Pedro Sula (SAP) on the Honduran mainland.
Honduran Entry Requirements
To avoid surprises, make sure you meet the basic Honduran Entry Requirements before boarding your flight to the Roatan airport:
- Passport validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, with a minimum of 2 blank pages available.
- Visas: U.S. and Canadian citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa, while UK travelers do require a visa and must obtain it from a Honduran consulate before traveling. Citizens of Nicaragua, Guatemala, and El Salvador can enter with their personal identification document as part of the CA-4.
- Proof of onward travel: Immigration officers may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket, so keep a digital or printed copy handy.
- Vaccinations: If you are traveling directly from the U.S., Canada, or Europe, no vaccines are required. However, if you’ve visited or transited through a yellow-fever risk country – such as Costa Rica, Colombia, or Brazil – you must show proof of vaccination.
NOTE:
Entry requirements can change. Always verify current requirements with the Honduran consulate or your country's foreign affairs ministry before departure.
Going Through Immigration at Roatan Airport
After deplaning, all passengers proceed directly to immigration. How long this takes depends almost entirely on how many international flights have landed at the same time. If your flight is the first or only arrival, the process is typically quick. If two or more international flights land back-to-back — which is common during peak season — expect a longer wait. Honduran citizens and legal residents have a separate line.
Before arrival, be sure to fill out your digital Customs Declaration form as wi-fi can be spotty at the Roatan airport. Fun Fact: there are no street addresses in Roatan. When asked for your accommodation address on the form, the name of your hotel and its general area (for example, “Puerta Azul, Sandy Bay”) should be sufficient.
At the immigration counter, you will present your passport, your completed customs declaration, and proof of onward travel if requested. Officers may ask standard questions about the purpose and length of your visit.
How Long Can You Stay in Roatan?
Most visitors receive a standard stay of 90 days upon arrival. If you’d like to stay longer – or in the event you received less than 90 days – you can request a 30-day extension within 5 days of your current visas expiration date at the Plaza Mar Immigration Office in Coxen Hole. The fee is around $20 USD per month – paid in Lempiras – and you’ll need your passport, a copy of your entry stamp, and a document justifying your reason for extension.
Getting From the Airport to Your Accommodation
After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, you’ll exit into the main arrivals lobby. Taxi drivers will be waiting immediately outside. A posted sign near the exit doors shows official rates to common destinations — check this before accepting a fare to avoid being overcharged.
As a general reference point from the cash guide: the fare from the airport to areas like Sandy Bay or West End is typically around $25 USD. These rates can shift, so confirm the rate before getting in.
Many hotels, including Puerta Azul, can arrange a private driver to meet you at the airport. This is a reliable option if you prefer a stress-free arrival without negotiating at the taxi area.
Exit Fees Upon Departure
All travelers leaving the Roatan airport must pay a departure tax. For most international flights, this fee is already included in your ticket. Domestic flights will need to pay a 54 HNL/$2 USD fee at the departure tax desk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Roatan?
It depends on your nationality. US and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. UK citizens do need a visa and must apply at a Honduran consulate before travelling. Citizens of Nicaragua, Guatemala, and El Salvador can use their national ID under the CA-4 agreement.
How long can I stay on Roatan without a visa?
Most eligible nationalities receive up to 90 days on arrival. If you need more time, a 30-day extension can be applied for at the Plaza Mar Immigration Office in Coxen Hole, within five days of your visa’s expiry date.
Is there a departure tax when leaving Roatan?
Yes, but for international flights it is almost always included in your ticket price. Domestic flights require a separate payment of 54 HNL (approximately $2 USD) at the airport’s departure tax desk.
Are there ATMs or currency exchange at Roatan Airport?
There is no currency exchange service at the airport. ATMs are available in Coxen Hole, West End, and other areas of the island. Bring USD for immediate needs on arrival — taxis and most initial expenses can be paid in US dollars.
Does Roatan have its own airport, or do I fly into the mainland?
Roatan has its own international airport: Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB), located in Coxen Hole on the island itself. You do not need to travel through the Honduran mainland.
What is the address of my hotel for the customs form?
Roatan has no street addresses. On your customs declaration form, write the name of your accommodation and the general area — for example, ‘Puerta Azul Boutique Hotel, Sandy Bay, Roatan.’ This is standard and accepted by immigration officers.