Image: tropical beach with hammock on palm, relax concept from Nicaragua (Photo via riderfoot / iStock / Getty Images Plus)
Image: tropical beach with hammock on palm, relax concept from Nicaragua (Photo via riderfoot / iStock / Getty Images Plus)
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Central America Travel Guide 

Central America is an expansive stretch of land and is home to seven unique and epic countries. With hundreds of volcanoes, millennia-old ruins, delicious cuisine, and endless adventures, it’s become one of the best travel destinations in the world.

It’s also one of our personal favorites! But with so much to explore and so little time, creating a satisfying itinerary can be difficult. 

Fortunately, you can use this Central America travel guide to learn about this travel hot spot’s highlights and our picks for the best places to visit!

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Costa Rica Active Adventure

Costa Rica Active Adventure (Photo Credit: Provided by GAdventures)

Epic History 

Today, Central America is divided into seven unique countries. But before it was what it is now, the land was ruled by the Incas, Mayans, and Aztecs, some of the most notable empires in human history. 

In our opinion, there is no better way to learn about Central America than by visiting the museums and ruins scattered throughout Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize.

Natural Beauty

When we think of the top most beautiful places we’ve visited, Central America is in our top three. With local tours, you can experience lush jungles, breathtaking fauna and flora, and so much more. 

If you get bored of being on land or exploring jungles, take a trip to one of the local beaches. The water is perfect for sunning, swimming, and surfing and the views are perfect for epic vacation photos. 

Vivid Culture

Trying to describe Central American culture would be impossible. The region has a diverse history and an even more vivid present that is ever-changing. 

But you can immerse yourself in the culture as we did. You can participate and learn about all the bright ancestral history and the religious, civic, and popular festivities. The vivid culture will quickly swallow you up and show you just how amazing this region is. 

Delicious Food

The last highlight has to be the amazing food. Again, the diversity of this region becomes clear when exploring the cuisine. 

Here you can enjoy a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African cuisine and their local variations. Try everything you can and remember to add a delicious local drink for good measure. 

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Top Places To Visit In Central America

Costa Rica is a paradise for those looking for experiences in one of the richest biodiversity in Central America. (Photo via Arenal Volcano National Park).
Costa Rica is a paradise for those looking for experiences in one of the richest biodiversity in Central America. (Photo via Arenal Volcano National Park).

Costa Rica

One of our favorite places to visit in Central America is Costa Rica. It’s a must-see for any thrill seekers! 

In Costa Rica, you can explore amazing national parks, tree-top adventures, ziplining, canoeing, and more. 

It’s also the perfect Central America destination for animal lovers. You can explore amazing natural habitats and witness some of the cutest animals on earth, including sea turtles and sloths. 

Belize

If you love the ocean, then Belize is the place for you. Visit the iconic Great Blue hole and scuba dive into its depths. If that’s a little too much for you, take it slow on one of the many amazing local beaches and enjoy diving with local professionals. 

But beaches aren’t all Belize has to offer. This country has some of the most beautiful jungles we have ever seen. Take your family on an adventure and explore Belize - a natural wonder. 

Surfer in Playa Venao
Surfer in Playa Venao (photo courtesy Tourism Panama)

Panama

If you’re ready to explore the more modern side of Central America, visit Panama. Panama city is the most developed city in Central America and has an eclectic nightlight and vibrant city scene. 

Here you can visit the Panama Canal, one of the biggest and most impressive man-made waterways in history.  You can also visit the Panama city rainforest, the only city forest in the world. 

Guatemala

In our opinion, no Central America trip is done without a visit to Guatemala. The region boasts three UNESCO world heritage sites, including Mayan ruins, the colorful colonial town of Antigua, and the Tikal National Park.

The landscape is also dotted with volcanoes and trees that stretch to the horizon. To us, Guatemala felt like an explorer’s paradise and one we’d love to visit again. 

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