Central America: where jungles whisper ancient secrets and beaches beckon with turquoise waves. Let’s explore the gems that together, make a tropical paradise like no other with this Central America travel guide.
So you’re thinking of a Central America trip? Lucky you. This region consists of seven fantastic countries, each with its own unique culture and choice of natural wonders.
Explore Guatemala’s bubbling volcanos, Belize’s breathtaking coral reefs, Honduras’ Mayan treasures or Costa Rica’s pristine coastline – if you want to live out your childhood dreams as an explorer, Central America is calling!
There’s one problem though. The sheer possibility of it all. From epic jungle adventures, to scenic towns and balmy islands – choosing where to go and what to do in Central America can be quite daunting…
Not anymore. This guide delves right into this captivating region: from the best places to visit to suggested hotels and little-known gems.
Let’s adventure!
The best time to visit Central America is between November and April. This is the dry season for most regions, with temperature variations from country to country. You can explore sandy beaches, Mayan ruins and other landmarks comfortably.
Go between September and October, (rainy season), for waterfall hunting and rainforest tours.
Costa Rica remains one of the best countries to visit in Central America for its natural beauty. Hop from one stunning beach to another, hike rainforests to your heart’s content and experience the pura vida lifestyle. Stay at the Royal Corin Resort.
From natural wonders to Mayan ruins, you can’t go wrong staying in Guatemala. Traverse up volcanoes, along lakes, and through rainforests; then embrace the local culture and flavours of Antigua. Stay at Good Hotel.
Belize is a beach haven for water babies. Think palm-fringed shores with white sands, snorkelling, diving, swimming and tanning. If that sounds like your groove, Belize is your top Central American destination. Stay at Belize Ocean Club.
Panama is the perfect Central America travel destination for those who love nature yet dream about the city skyline. See historical landmarks like Old Panama, escape to San Blas Islands or Boquette’s mountains – Panama is your oyster. Stay at JW Marriott.
Packing for your best Central America trip? Don’t forget…
Travel insurance is key to a smooth-sailing trip, no matter where you go. Don’t let the cost of unforeseen incidents and situations like theft or injury ruin your Central American vacation.
I use and rate AXA Travel Insurance for travel experiences in Central America.
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Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage icon showcasing Spanish Colonial architecture at its best.
Explore Antigua’s serene streets filled with colourful, picturesque buildings – serving as the finest backdrops to fuel your social media pages. Make sure to stop by the Santa Catalina Arch and Iglesia de la Merced.
A large chain of volcanoes crosses Guatemala — and guess what? Some of these are hikable.
Acatenango Volcano is arguably the best volcano hike to consider; featuring cloud forests, grasslands and rich flora. Santa María Volcano, Pacaya and Fuego Volcano are also fantastic options.
Head to a Caribbean island off the coast of Belize for some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world.
The sun-soaked shores offer a laid-back vibe – gorgeous sights and tranquil waters complete the picture. Head off on this seven-stop snorkelling tour.
If you’re fascinated by Mayan culture, don’t miss seeing their once-glorious temples up close.
Tikal in Guatemala should be top of your list – standing atop the ancient pyramids in the middle of the jungle, it’s an archaeological treasure.
Other must-visit Mayan Temples include Xunantunich and Altun Ha in Belize.
Manuel Antonio is undoubtedly worth seeing for any traveller.
It’s the smallest national park in Costa Rica and the most popular, boasting pristine beaches, stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot sloths, iguanas, Squirrel Monkeys, and more.
Ever been to a cloud forest? Visit the magical Monteverde preserve and you’ll be able to say yes!
There’s much to see here, including the highest concentration of orchids, 100 mammal species, 400 bird species, remote beaches and more. Walking across the hanging bridges here is truly surreal.
If the great outdoors is calling your name, why not hike through lush, verdant forests to the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall in central Costa Rica?
The hike is 0.75 miles / 1.2 km round trip and takes about 45 minutes to complete — expect lots of stairs, though.
The Azuero Peninsula is famous for a few things: fishing, farming, cattle ranching and partying.
The locals here go all out during their annual carnival celebrations with costumes to humble Brazil, leaving you no choice but to join the festivities.
Read Next: Top Places to Visit in Central America
Not sure where to travel in Central America? A strategic itinerary might help with that. You can always remove or add more destinations to your liking and choose one that suits your interests.
10 Days
Tikal National Park – Yaxha North Acropolis – Caracol Natural Monument Reservation – Xunantunich Mayan Ruins – Altun Ha – Lamanai Archaeological Reserve
Discover some of the most impressive Mayan temples in just ten days.
Two Weeks
Manuel Antonio Beach – Punta Uva Beach – Playa Cocles – Tabyana Beach – West Bay Beach – Caye Caulker – Ambergris Caye
Chase one gorgeous beach after the other for the most chilled-out experiences.
One Month
Panama Canal – San Blas Islands – Bocas del Toro – Lake Nicaragua – Granada, Nicaragua – Semuc Champey – Antigua – Great Blue Hole
Get your train or bus tickets ready to explore all the highlights of Central America.
10-14 Days
Manuel Antonio National Park – Corcovado National Park – Arenal Volcano National Park – Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve – Tortuguero National Park
Explore Central America’s unfiltered natural beauty by visiting its best national parks.
Visit San Jorge, Nicaragua, to be amidst lush forests, Instagram-worthy views, and live like the locals. This is where you’ll indulge in some of the finest Nicaraguan cuisine, alfresco-style while facing the ocean.
The Rincón de la Vieja Volcano is grossly overlooked by many travellers thanks to the famous Arenal Volcano nearby. But don’t make this same mistake. This park boasts some of the most rewarding and challenging hikes, gorgeous waterfalls, sulphur hot springs, and volcanic mud deposits.
The Bayano Caves are one of Panama’s best-hidden treasures. Found in Lake Bayano, you’ll likely spot howler monkeys, birds, reptiles and even capybaras. Swim in the caves if you dare; regardless, staying dry is impossible with water flowing from the ceilings.
Located in Belize, a trip to this hidden sanctuary is precisely what you need to unplug and unwind. Cockscomb Basin is the world’s first jaguar preserve, overflowing with cascading waterfalls, trails, vibrant flora, colourful insects and furry animals.
Travelling to Central America on a budget? Try these free activities. Do yourself a favour and visit the best beaches in Costa Rica.
Wandering historic Casco Viejo’s winding streets is a must if you’re in Panama. Then, go up Ancon Hill for breathtaking sweeps over the city for free.
Visit Guatemala’s iconic landmarks for free, too, including Arco de Santa Catalina, Hill of the Cross and Iglesia de la Merced.
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