Are you planning a visit and on the lookout for the very best locations to go to in Central America? We’ve bought you lined! We now have spent over a 12 months touring Central America. There are such a lot of stunning locations in Central America it’s exhausting to slender it accomplished.
There’s something for everybody in Central America. Are you on the lookout for a seashore trip? Out of doors adventures? Chase waterfalls? Mountaineering? Strive native meals? Expertise new cultures?
In the event you solely have time for a one week trip, we recommend choosing one nation and visiting a max of two locations inside that nation. You don’t need to try to cram an excessive amount of into one trip, as a result of then you definitely don’t actually get to expertise a spot.
Greatest time to Go to Central America
Central America is a wide ranging vacation spot each month of the 12 months. Nonetheless, it’s important to think about the climate, rainfall, and busy vacationer season earlier than deciding which month you need to go to.
Most vacationers would agree that the dry season is the very best time of 12 months to go to Central America. The dry season usually begins in December and ends in mid-April. You possibly can anticipate clear skies and nice temperatures throughout this time, ultimate for sightseeing, mountaineering, or beach-going. However, that is additionally the height season for vacationers, which equates to giant crowds and costly lodging.
The summer time and fall months will be moist and humid, making it nearly not possible to benefit from the plethora of out of doors actions Central America is known for. Nonetheless, the panorama is at its most gorgeous because of the lush inexperienced forests. The moist season can be the low season for vacationers, which is great for funds vacationers or anybody seeking to escape the crowds.
Greatest Journey Insurance coverage
Earlier than getting on that aircraft, ensure you have journey insurance coverage. It’s at all times higher to have it than want it. We’ve been touring the world for over ten years and have tried quite a few totally different journey insurance coverage firms. Our favourite is Security Wing.
For our first few years, we had been spending a fortune, however now lastly, there’s an inexpensive journey insurance coverage possibility. For the previous three years, now we have been solely utilizing Security Wing. Their insurance policy are inexpensive. You possibly can add dates, purchase household plans, and extra. Click on right here to view plans and charges.
For an upcoming journey now we have that’s two months lengthy. Our price is $90 per grownup, and the youngsters beneath 10 are free, so it’s $180 for our household of 4! Most individuals simply want a one-week coverage. One week would value us $12 per grownup. That is $12 properly spent.
You possibly can examine all the advantages on-line right here and evaluate your plan paperwork. Here’s a fast rundown of what’s lined by Security Wing Journey insurance coverage:
- Protection in case you are in an accident or get sick whereas exterior of your house nation and want medical help
- $250,000 max restrict on medical with a $250 deductible
- $50 co-pay for pressing care (not topic to deductible)
- $1,000 emergency dental protection (not topic to deductible)
- $100,000 emergency medical evacuation (not topic to deductible)
- $$5,000 journey interruption (not topic deductible)
- $100 a day after a 12-hour day
- Misplaced checked baggage $500 per merchandise (no topic to deductible)
They even have plans that embody journey throughout the US. Most different firms don’t have any protection plans that embody US journey.
1. Arenal, Costa Rica
As one of many ten most lively volcanos on this planet, the Arenal Volcano is one in all Costa Rica’s most recognizable landmarks. Towering 5,458 toes above lush forests and inexperienced jungles, Arenal will be seen from virtually each angle within the Alajuela province. In 1968, Arenal erupted and destroyed the small village of Tabacón. Though its final main eruption was in 1998, it has been thought of dormant since 2010.
Whereas it’s not potential to get near the volcano, there are a number of mountaineering trails that take you thru the forests and dried lava fields. The Sendero Las Coladas is a well-liked 1.3-mile mountaineering path that goes via lava rocks and boasts unobstructed views of Arenal.
Different actions close to the volcano embody canyoning, river rafting, and horseback using. In the event you’re serious about one thing extra low-key, there are additionally a number of sizzling springs and geothermal swimming pools heated by Arenal. One among our favorites is testing the close by waterfalls like La Fortuna Waterfall pictured above. Go early, and you’ll have it to your self as we did. A number of the finest waterfalls in Costa Rica are close by.
2. Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
For a number of the finest waves in Costa Rica, head to the attractive Caribbean coastal city of Puerto Viejo. Browsing is without doubt one of the hottest actions right here, and the large swells at Playa Cocles, Playa Grande Manzanillo, and Playa Negra are world-renowned for the almost-perfect browsing circumstances. Salsa Brava is arguably probably the most well-known seashore on the town, though it’s suggested that solely skilled surfers ought to sort out its highly effective waves.
However Puerto Viejo is greater than only a surfer’s paradise. The white-sand seashores and turquoise waters entice locals and guests keen to hunt out a little bit of solar and rest. It’s additionally price spending time within the small city middle. With a mixture of Caribbean, Latino, and even indigenous cultures, Puerto Viejo is a heat and welcoming vacation spot for anybody who visits.
3. Lago Atitlan, Guatemala
Situated within the Guatemalan Highlands of the Sierra Madre mountain vary, Lago Atitlan is a must-see attraction throughout your journey to Guatemala. At over 750 toes deep, it’s Central America’s deepest lake, and simply some of the gorgeous lakes on this planet.
Hike to the highest of La Nariz for spectacular views over the lake, or go for a refreshing swim on the Reserva Pure del Cerra Tzankujil. Thrill-seekers may have loads of journey alternatives, because it’s potential to go cliff leaping straight into the blue lake.
In the event you enterprise to the small villages on the perimeter of the lake, you’ll discover a lot of them nonetheless observe the normal Mayan lifestyle. These communities nonetheless put on conventional costume, and a few of them nonetheless worship Mayan deities. You possibly can assist these native communities by buying on the handicraft market in Chichicastenango, consuming on the pupil coaching restaurant in Santa Cruz La Laguna, or buying handmade candies in San Marcos.
4. Antigua, Guatemala
The preserved Spanish-Baroque city of Antigua is arguably one of many highlights of Guatemala. The UNESCO World Heritage web site is dominated by brightly coloured homes, colonial church buildings, and century-old monuments. Town was based in 1524 and has survived earthquakes, volcanic mudslides, and even Spanish rule, making it some of the historic cities to go to within the nation.
Essentially the most iconic landmark in Antigua is the Arco de Santa Catalina. This historic yellow arch was constructed within the late 1600s and stays the image of the city. Different sights in Antigua embody the Iglesia de La Merced, the Church of San Francisco, and the Convent o de las Capuchinas.
In the event you’re up for the problem, take into account taking a day journey to the Pacaya Volcano, one hour from Antigua. The mountaineering trails across the volcano are comparatively straightforward, even for a newbie or intermediate hikers. Not solely will you be rewarded with superb views, however you’ll even have the prospect to roast marshmallows over the lava rocks!
5. Placencia, Belize
Placencia is positioned on the Caribbean coast of Belize and is taken into account by many to be one of many nation’s most gorgeous tropical retreats. This as soon as tiny fishing village has blossomed to turn into a preferred vacationer vacation spot, recognized for its huge stretch of sandy seashore and abundance of out of doors actions. There are a number of beautiful seashores in Belize, however Placencia is our favourite.
Snorkeling, kayaking, and salt-water fly fishing are only a handful of actions you may take part in throughout your go to. Scuba diving can be extraordinarily well-liked in Placencia on account of its proximity to the Southern Belize Barrier Reef. With colourful corals, stunning rays, and mild whale sharks, diving in Placencia is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Central America.
6. Caye Caulker, Belize
For laid-back island vibes, head to the quaint island of Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker is the definition of paradise with swaying palm timber, crystal clear blue waters, and white sugar sand seashores. Though the island is comparatively small (it solely takes about an hour to stroll from one finish to the opposite), there’s no scarcity of enjoyable and enjoyable actions to participate in.
Snorkelers and divers are spoiled by Caye Caulker’s location close to the Southern Belize Barrier Reef. The tranquil waters and vivid corals are house to quite a lot of turtles, sharks, and naturally, tropical fish. In the event you’re on the lookout for some rest, you may spend your days sunbathing on The Break up, an extended stretch of seashore that has turn into probably the most taking place spot on the island.
If you will get trip time for a couple of extra days, we extremely counsel seven to 10 nights. Right here is our seven to 10 nights in Belize information, the place we’d go, and for a way lengthy. We love Belize!
7. Copan, Honduras
Step again in time with a go to to the Copan ruins in Honduras. This historic Mayan metropolis was occupied for greater than two thousand years and was even the capital of the Mesoamerican kingdom from the fifth to ninth centuries. The inhabitants of town began to say no shortly after, and Copan remained deserted till the arrival of Spanish conquistadors within the sixteenth century.
Now, Copan is a 250-acre web site stuffed with stone temples, giant plazas, and awe-inspiring pyramids. One of the vital spectacular ruins is The Hieroglyphic Stairway, consisting of 1,260 intricately carved hieroglyphic symbols. Copan can be recognized for its preserved carved stelae – or stone columns – which will be discovered dotted all through the archaeological web site.
8. Utila, Honduras
Though Utila may be one in all Honduras’ smallest islands, it packs a giant punch in terms of magnificence. Regardless of the island being solely eight miles lengthy, it’s house to 2 seashores, dozens of inns and hostels, and loads of eating places and seashore bars. A lot of the village life congregates round Utila City, as the vast majority of the island stays untouched and inaccessible by roads.
Life on the island of Utila operates at a a lot slower tempo. The most well-liked actions embody hanging out on the seashore or swimming. Utila can be a terrific vacation spot for scuba diving, as there are many low cost dive retailers positioned on the town. In the event you’re fortunate, you would possibly even get the chance to see whale sharks throughout your underwater journey.
9. Bocas del Toro, Panama
The charming vacationer city of Bocas del Toro is positioned on Colon Island, a part of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago of Panama. With picturesque seashores, glowing blue water, and dense jungles, Bocas del Toro is the perfect vacation spot for a budget-friendly trip escape.
There’s a robust backpacker vibe on the island; you’ll discover many hostels, surf retailers, and cafes lining the piers and seashores. At night time, Bocas del Toro turns into a vibrant nightlife spot, with tons of bars and eating places open late into the night time.
As with most small islands, Bocas del Toro is the very best place to go to for rest. Though it’s potential to spend the time out on the water, most vacationers come to benefit from the spectacular island views and immaculate seashores.
10. Leon, Nicaragua
As Nicaragua’s second-largest metropolis, Leon is a bustling vacation spot stuffed with historical past and tradition. Most notable are the meticulously preserved colonial buildings and church buildings. There are extra colonial church buildings and cathedrals in Leon than in every other metropolis in Nicaragua.
Leon Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Central America. It’s price climbing as much as the roof for sweeping views of town and surrounding volcanos. One of many oldest church buildings in Leon is the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Subtiava. In contrast to the opposite church buildings within the metropolis (that are ornate and lavish), Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Subtiava has extra of a rural, indigenous really feel.
The artwork galleries in Leon are additionally price visiting. Fundacion Ortiz and Centro de Arte Fundacion are two museums that includes outstanding Central American and Nicaraguan masterpieces.
11. Monteverde, Costa Rica
Probably the greatest locations for an ecotourism trip is within the mountainous neighborhood of Monteverde. In complete, there are seven ecological life zones in Monteverde and the encompassing areas alone. For that reason, it’s thought of by many to be one of many Seven Wonders of Costa Rica.
Most vacationers go to Monteverde to discover the 26,000 acres of cloud forest on the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The reserve is house to 2,500 sorts of vegetation, 100 species of mammals, and 400 species of birds. Ecologically, the park accommodates six ecological zones and is comprised of 90% virgin forest.
The neighboring Bosque Eterno de los Ninos conservation space is one other must-see nature protect in Monteverde. With over 50,000 acres of nature protect forests, it’s the most important protected conservation space within the space.
Associated Article: Issues to do in Costa Rica
12. San Blas Islands, Panama
Island hoppers are spoiled for alternative in terms of the picturesque San Blas Islands. This archipelago is comprised of 365 totally different islands, 49 of that are inhabited by indigenous Guna folks. Nearly all of the islands have remained untouched by mass tourism, making them a really perfect place for vacationers serious about ecotourism and out of doors journey.
Carti Sugtupu, El Porvenir, and Cayos Limones are simply three of probably the most scenic locations to go to in San Blas. Right here, the Guna folks dwell as they did centuries in the past. They fish for meals, chop timber for supplies, and craft textiles and attire.
If you wish to benefit from your journey across the islands, it’s advisable to hire or rent a sailboat. That is the simplest (and most enjoyable) strategy to discover the attractive San Blas Islands.
13. Ometepe, Nicaragua
Rising from the Lake of Nicaragua is the island of Ometepe. The whole island was created by two volcanos, giving it a singular hourglass form. Overlaying greater than 170 sq. miles, Ometepe is the most important volcanic lake island on this planet. As a result of fertile soil from the volcanos, Ometepe is also referred to as one of many agriculture epicenters of Nicaragua.
Vacationers journey from everywhere in the world to go to this distant island. Between mountaineering, paragliding, kayaking, and even volcano climbing alternatives, Ometepe has an exhilarating expertise for each sort of traveler.
It’s additionally believed to be a sacred place; you’ll discover dozens of petroglyphs and carved basalt rock idols dotted everywhere in the island. The cultural and historic influence of those historic artifacts makes Ometepe some of the fascinating locations in Central America for vacationers to discover.
The place are your favourite locations to go to in Central America? We’re at all times on the lookout for new locations to take a look at.
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