A long layover in Tela is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Tela Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave TEA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Honduras. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Tela takes about 60 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is HNL. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some HNL in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Tela
The most straightforward way into Tela is the Taxi, which takes about 60 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 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Tela layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at TEA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Tela itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
How to Spend Your Time in Tela
If you head into Tela, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at TEA, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Tela, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at TEA, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Taking a Break at TEA
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at TEA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at TEA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Tela or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Tela doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from TEA, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.