For travelers with a layover in La Ceiba, the proximity of LCE to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 45 minutes via Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of LCE:
- Can you legally enter Honduras? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the HNL. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Getting to La Ceiba from the Airport
The most straightforward way into La Ceiba is the Taxi, which takes about 45 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 65 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
What to See and Do in La Ceiba
Two recommendations for your time in La Ceiba:
Start with Swinford Park (Parque Swinford). Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Then, if time allows, make your way to La Ceiba Malecón & Pier. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside LCE — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Duty-Free Shop (LCE)
- Airport Cafe & Relaxation Area
Where to Eat
- In the city: La Barca Restaurante and Sam’s Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring La Ceiba.
- At the airport: Goloson Airport Terminal Cafeteria and Departure Gate Snack Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your La Ceiba layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$8 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$23 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in La Ceiba.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at LCE aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in La Ceiba itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at LCE, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in La Ceiba itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Honduras that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at LCE
Long overnight layover? Your options at LCE include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Honduras also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in La Ceiba count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave LCE. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.