Backpacking Central America
Comprising of seven small yet vibrant countries, backpacking Central America is seen as a rite of passage.
This region is home to many exciting and lesser known destinations, including some truly incredible Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches and cultural cities.
It’s also inexpensive, meaning you can travel around this region for longer!
Due to its comparative smaller size compared to South America and Mexico, this region is perfect for those looking to explore Latin America with less time.
Backpacking Central America
Start here to get informed on Central America and everything you need to know about backpacking around this amazing region.
This includes an in-depth look at all the countries, the best things to see and do, travel itineraries, how to budget and much, much more!
Most importantly we’ll do our best to give the raw/true sides of this region.
Whilst most only want to show you beautiful photos, we believe it’s more important to share everything including both the good and bad, so we all have the right expectations as well as can plan properly!
Central America Itineraries
Central America is a very fun region to backpack.
Spanning 2200km (which sounds big and kind of is, but is very small say compared to South America), people usually travel from Belize or Guatemala in the north until Costa Rica or Panama, or vice-versa.
It depends on what you want to do/see! But with Central America being so varied and interesting, you’ll likely want to visit most (if not all) countries. Use hostels in Central America to meet new people and keep your costs down!
Luckily it can be done regardless of your time-frame, with as little as 6 weeks to cover most of the top destinations.
Below we’ve created a range of itineraries for you to look through!
All-Rounder Itineraries
You could easily spend months upon months here (especially if coming to learn Spanish or get really good at surfing) but in general, most spend roughly between 6-10 weeks backpacking through Central America.
1 Month Central America Itinerary
Guatemala (Antigua, Flores, Lake Atitlán) → Honduras (Copán, The Bay Islands) → Nicaragua (León, Ometepe Island, San Juan del Sur).
2 Month Central America Itinerary
Panama (Panama City, Bocas del Toro) → Costa Rica (Puerto Viejo, San José, Arenal, Monteverde) → Nicaragua (San Juan del Sur, Ometepe Island, León), Honduras (The Bay Islands, Copán), Guatemala (Lake Atitlán, Flores, Antigua), Belize (San Ignacio, Caye Caulker).
3 Month Central America Itinerary
Belize (Caye Caulker, San Ignacio), Guatemala (Antigua, Flores, Lanquin, Lake Atitlán) → Honduras (Copán, The Bay Islands, Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve) → El Salvador (Santa Ana, La Libertad, Suchitoto) → Nicaragua (León, Ometepe Island, San Juan del Sur), Costa Rica (Monteverde, Arenal, Tortuguero National Park, Jaco, San José, Puerto Viejo) → Panama (Bocas del Toro, Panama City, Embera Village, San Blas Islands).
Central America Bucket List Itineraries
For backpackers who are short on time or only want to visit the popular places.
1 Month Central America Itinerary
The Blue Hole (Caye Caulker) → Tikal (Flores) → Lake Atitlán → Santa Ana Volcano → Copán Ruins → The Bay Islands → Sandboarding (León), Ometepe Island.
2 Months Central America Itinerary
San Blas Islands → Island-Hopping (Bocas del Toro) → Arenal Volcano (La Fortuna) → Monterverde Cloud Forest → Surfing (San Juan del Sur) → Ometepe Island → Sandboarding (León) → The Bay Island → Copán Ruins → Santa Ana Volcano → Lake Atitlán → Tikal (Flores) → The Blue Hole (Caye Caulker).
Belize Backpacking Guide
Let’s start of by exploring the relaxed and palm-fringed nation of Belize.
One of the smallest countries in Latin America, Belize is very easy to travel around, with most trips only taking a few hours to get between destinations.
English is the official language here, making it a lot easier to explore and get to know locals (who – like most in Latin America – are welcoming and friendly).
Places to Visit in Belize
Caye Caulker
Home to The Belize Barrier Reef (which is the second largest in the World only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia), Caye Caulker Is arguably the best area in Central America for diving and spotting marine wildlife. This snorkeling tour is perfect as you’ll visit 7 key spots, where you can swim with manatees and turtles. This town is extremely chilled out and sleepy, with no cars at all.
To get around you can either walk or rent a bike. Some of the other cool things to do here include going kayaking to explore the island, snorkeling in Half Moon Caye as well as heading to the lesser known South End, which is home to crocodiles and rare anemones.
San Ignacio
Located in the western region of Belize, San Ignacio is a lively and popular spot among backpackers. It’s usually visited by those who are making their way into Guatemala, due to its close proximity to the border.
This town is the best area in the country for exploring Mayan ruins, with the best here being Xunantunich and Caracol. We recommend this awesome day tour where you’ll have a professional guide show you around Xunantunich, which includes cave tubing and also a horseback ride through the jungle.
Other cool things to do here include cave tubing in the ancient caves of Actun Tunichil, as well as exploring the lively market, where on Saturdays you can try a variety of local foods and also browse cheap souvenirs.
Orange Walk Town
Definitely the least visited, this town is only 25 miles from the Mexican border, making it a great area to stay in if coming from the north. The Lamanai Ruins are the top visit here, where many human-sized heads with masks have been discovered.
Also go for a stroll in the centre of Orange Walk, and check out the cool and colorful clock tower, as well as streets lined with blue and yellow houses.
Another cool thing to do nearby is to visit the tranquil Honey Camp lagoon, which is only 9 miles away. Here there are many properties to stay around the lake if you’re looking for a weekend to get away and relax.
Will you travel to Belize soon? You can read our Belize itinerary for more ideas on where to go and what to do during your travels.
Guatemala Backpacking Guide
Now let’s explore the popular and cultural hotspot of Guatemala.
One of the best countries to backpack in Central America, Guatemala is full of towering volcanoes, fascinating colonial towns as well as some truly stunning ancient Mayan Ruins.
Let’s take a look at the best this country has to offer below.
Places to Visit in Guatemala
Antigua
Arguably one of the most popular destinations in all of Central America, Antigua is a colonial town full of cobblestone steps, surrounded by a backdrop of sizzling volcanoes.
It’s also one of the preferred destinations for backpackers to come and learn Spanish, with many staying long-term in the former capital.
Some of the best sights to see here include the majestic Santa Catalina Arch, as well as the pretty Antigua Cathedral. Head up to Cerro de La Cruz for some impressive views over the city.
Antigua is also a great place to hike volcanoes and here you can take a day-hike up to the moderately easy Pacaya Volcano, or opt for the more challenging yet awesome Acatenango, which is just shy of four thousand feet.
If you want to hike Acatenango, then you’ll need to head with an organized trek. We recommend this one, which includes all meals as well as all necessary equipment provided.
Lake Atitlan (and its Towns)
This lake is one of the best bucket-list destinations to visit in Central America, if not all of Latin America!
A deep-blue lake surrounded by volcanoes, Lake Atitlan is roughly 12km long and is situated within a volcanic crater. It’s known for its variety of bustling and striking towns that surround the lake.
Panajachel is the first town you’ll reach if heading by bus, and has lots of accommodation options. San Marcos is very Bohemian, and also a lot more scenic with many hiking paths.
For the classic backpacking destination, head to San Pedro la Laguna which sits at the foot of the San Pedro Volcano. It has many great hostels, restaurants and lively bars!
You can head to Lake Atitlan with this full-day tour, which includes a boat tour to different villages as well as a visit to the legendary market of Chichicastenango.
Flores
A small island located in the Péten Lake, Flores is connected by a small bridge to the mainland town of Santa Elena. And when we say small, we mean small!
You can walk around the island within 30 minutes, exploring its peaceful bays, lively areas as well as the top of the hill which has a nice plaza and church.
One of the best things to do in Flores includes catching a small boat to Jorge’s Rope Swing, which is a tiny resort with lots of ropes and kayaks to hire to explore the Péten Lake. Flores is also the best place to base yourself when exploring Tikal.
Tikal Ruins
Guatemala is full of Mayan ruins, and despite being the most-trodden, Tikal is definitely one of the best to visit (and also one of the easiest too).
Situated in the jungle in northern Guatemala, Tikal Ruins are a series of ancient complexes and structures that were once the beating heart of the Mayan Empire.
It was here that the rulers of Mesoamerica once lived, and was believed to have housed up to 100,000 people at its peak.
The best pyramids to see here include Pyramid IV, which is the largest, as well as Temple I (also known as the Temple of the Great Jaguar) which is the most picturesque.
This guided tour is the best way to explore Tikal, which includes all transport as well as a tasty lunch.
Will you travel to Guatemala soon? Remember to read our Guatemala itinerary for more ideas on where to go and what to do during your travels.
El Salvador Backpacking Guide
Often seen as the wildcard of Central America, El Salvador is seldom visited in comparison with other countries in the region.
Many still fear this country, especially due to its tough past with gang violence and civil wars. However, many of these problems have now been improved in the last decade or so, making El Salvador relatively safe to travel to.
With beautiful natural landscapes, cute colonial towns and some of the best surfing in the region, El Salvador should not be missed on a backpacking trip in Central America!
Let’s now explore the best things to see and do in this underrated country.
Places to visit in El Salvador
Santa Ana
Most who enter El Salvador will start in Santa Ana, due to its close proximity to both Guatemala and Honduras. Santa Ana is a beautiful city known for its surrounding nature and scenery, as well as its colonial architecture.
The best things to do include hiking the nearby Ilamatepec, which is the highest volcano in the country, as well as the Lago de Coatepeque, which is a crystal blue lake formed from volcanic explosions some 70,000 years ago. There’s several different tours up, however this early-morning ascent is the absolute best as you’ll see the sunrise with no other groups up there with you!
Inside the city, be sure to visit the Catedral de Nuestra Señora Santa Ana, which is a stunning neo-gothic church that towers over the rest of the Parque Libertad and the historic center.
La Libertad
One of the best regions to visit in the country, La Libertad is well-known for its surfing, which is considered as one of the best spots in Central America. El Tunco is the main hotspot, which is a small town perfect for chilling out and relaxing on its expansive beaches.
Some of the other best beaches to explore in the region include Playa las Flores and Playa el Sunzal. Here you can also visit the mysterious San Andres Mayan ruins. Whilst the neighboring Guatemala and Honduras steal the thunder, these ancient ruins are great to explore and also to get to know more about El Salvador’s own cultural past.
Suchitoto
Located up in the mountains, this small town is located roughly 30km from the capital of San Salvador. Known for its beautiful ambiance and architecture, some of the best things to see here include La Iglesia Santa Lucía Suchitoto, the Casa de Alejandro Cotto as well as the pretty Central Park.
One of the best things to do here is to simply grab your camera and head to the streets. Rows upon rows of bright and contrasting houses as well as paved cobblestone streets make this town one of the best photo ops in the country. Those who are short on time are best heading on this half-day tour of Suchitoto.
You can also hike Guazapa Volcano, which located at a very comfortable 1438m, is the perfect introduction into hiking in Central America.
San Salvador
Often avoid due to its history of violence, nowadays the city is safer to visit, along with some great landmarks to see. The Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador is by far one of the most stunning, which features a colorful internal façade as well as 8 large paintings.
It’s also the resting place of Óscar Romero, who was assassinated in 1980, which many coming to visit the tomb. Some of the other impressive monuments to see in the city include the Divine Saviour of the World as well as the statue of General Gerardo.
Will you travel to El Salvador soon? Remember to read our El Salvador itinerary for more ideas on where to go and what to do during your travels.
Honduras Backpacking Guide
Next up on our list is the intriguing, yet less visited country of Honduras.
With a similar reputation to that of El Salvador, Honduras often gets a bad rep due to its past violence.
Whilst some cities like San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa must be trodden with extreme care, the rest of the country is home to some truly amazing and safe destinations to visit.
From some of the best beaches in Central America to impressive Mayan ruins and some fascinating wildlife, let’s now delve into the mysterious Honduras and why you must visit.
Places to visit in Honduras
The Bay Islands
Located roughly 60km from mainland Honduras, these stunning islands are arguably the top reason most travelers visit this nation. The three main islands here are Utila, Roatán and Guanaja.
Utila is king for backpackers, as it has lots of hostels and cheap-eat options. It also has some of the best nightlife, as well as being the cheapest island for learning to dive.
Roatán is more expensive, but hands down has some of the most beautiful beaches such as West Bay. It’s also home to one of the best diving sites in Central America, famed for its underwater volcanic crevices.
Guanaja is the least trodden, though its mountainous scenery makes it the best for hiking and exploring, whilst also getting more off the beaten path.
Those who are already in Roatán can head on this fun tour where you’ll go snorkeling, zip-lining and also hang out with monkeys and sloths
Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve
This region is hands down the best for exploring raw and untouched nature in Honduras. In comparison with Costa Rica and Panama, this is the better option for more off the beaten path exploring. Here you can see animals such as Jaguars, Baird’s Tapir, Giant Anteaters, Pumas and more.
The region is also home to some interesting indigenous communities such as the native Miskito and Tawakha. The best way to explore this untouched region is by joining an organized tour, where you’ll spend 7-10 days heading deep into the Honduran Jungle, visiting tribes as well as camping in the remote jungle. An absolute must experience when in Central America!
Copán Ruins
These ruins were once the capital of the Mayan empire from 5-9AD. Arguably one of the best ruins to visit in all of Central America, these are an absolute must-see when in Honduras.
This site was home to the most elite during the Mayan times, and such has some of the best pyramids to explore such as Temple 16, which at over 100ft, will give you the best panoramic views of the ruins.
Due to Copan’s location within a thick and lush valley, many wild and exotic animals freely roam around the site, including macaws, sloths, monkeys and guacamayas, which are like large parrots. Entry fee is around $15, and you’ll then also have access to the secondary archaeological site of Las Sepulturas.
Will you travel to Honduras soon? You can read our backpacking Honduras itinerary for more ideas on where to go and what to do during your travels.
Nicaragua Backpacking Guide
Now let’s explore the more rustic and authentic Nicaragua.
One of the poorer countries in Central America, Nicaragua is actually one of the safest, and is great for those looking for a novel experience mingling with friendly locals.
Exploring impressive volcanoes, relaxing on incredible Pacific beaches and getting off the beaten path are all on the agenda here. Let’s head straight into the best bits of Nicaragua below.
Places to Visit in Nicaragua
León
Close to the Honduran border, many first arrive into León when entering Nicaragua. This colonial city is known for its beautiful Spanish architecture and buildings. Some of the best colonial features to see here include the Cathedral-Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (yep it’s a mouthful) as well as the Calvary Church.
León is also known for its nearby, imposing volcanoes. Momotambo and Cerro Negro are the closes, and are great for hiking. The latter is known for where you can go Volcanoboarding, which is one of the most popular (and let’s be honest, the coolest) thing to do in León
Up in the Cerro Negro, you’ll get dressed up in old prison outfits and then throw yourself on a board down the side of a volcano! Reaching up to speeds of 70km, this is definitely a must for the more adventurous traveler.
Ometepe Island
This postcard-perfect island is located in the middle of Lake Nicaragua, which is the largest lake in all of Central America. Formed by the twin volcanoes of Concepción and Maderas, this island is great for hiking around, with both dormant volcanoes having some really stunning views from their peaks.
Arguably the most popular sight to visit here is the impressive San Ramón Waterfalls, which can be hiked in around an hour from Merida.
On the north side of Ometepe, be sure to rent a kayak where you can explore the calm waters, and also head to monkey island, where you can spot many different types of monkeys, birds and even caiman if you’re lucky!
Ometepe Island is also one of the go-to destinations for those looking to learn Spanish. Here there are many home-stays, where you can spend weeks or even months at a time living with a local family.
San Juan del Sur
Located in the south, near to the border with Costa Rica, is this popular backpacking hotspot. San Juan del Sur arguably has the best party and chill scene in the country, with lots of established hostels and amenities setup.
The beaches are also some of the best in the country here, and is also one of the best places to surf in Central America.
Playa Marsella and Playa San Juan del Sur are the best to relax on, and surfers will want to head to Playa Maderas.
This town really is for chilling out and kicking back, but if you still have itchy feet then be sure to head up to Cristo de La Misericordia, which is a statue that overlooks the cove and is a great place to watch the sunset.
Another great visit is Nacascolo Bay, which is a little further North. Here it is much more secluded, with its long coastline and renowned fishing making it a perfect destination for those who want to get more off the beaten path.
Will you travel to Nicaragua soon? Remember to read our Nicaragua itinerary for more ideas on where to go and what to do during your travels.
Costa Rica Backpacking Guide
This stunning country really needs no introduction.
As one of the most popular countries to visit in all of Latin America, Costa Rica really is the perfect all-rounder. With incredible cloud forests, stunning sunsets and some extremely-friendly locals, you’ll never want to leave this paradise!
Let’s take a look at the very best things to see here, and get into the “Pura Vida” swing of things.
Places to Visit in Costa Rica
San José
The capital of Costa Rica is safer than many of the other Central American capitals. Ranked as the happiest country in the world by the Happy Planet Index, you can relax in San José. This city is definitely one for museum lovers, and for those who want to learn more about Costa Rica’s past.
The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum is one of the coolest, housing over 3500 artifacts including ceramic, gold and stone rarities. Head to the National Museum of Costa Rica for the best collection of national heritage and important cultural relics.
Monteverde
Located some 4,500ft way up into the clouds, Monteverde (also known as the Monteverde Cloud Forest) is an incredible swathe of jungle surrounded by an ever-present mist. It’s also one of the most bio-diverse regions in Latin America, home to over 420 species of birds, 120 mammals, 650 butterflies and an incredible 3200 species of plants.
Some of the coolest animals to see here include monkeys, jaguars, tapir and sloths. The best things to do in Monteverde include walking across the high hanging bridges for the best views of the cloud forest, and also sailing through the canopy on Costa Rica’s longest zip-line!
We recommend heading on this night-tour, where you’ll trek through the jungle spotting everything from colorful frogs to ocelots
Puerto Viejo
This small town along the Caribbean Coast is one of the most popular destinations for solo backpackers in all of Costa Rica. With an extremely laid-back vibe, postcard-perfect sunsets and incredible beaches, you’ll definitely stay longer here than originally planned.
Playa Cocles and Playa Puerto Viejo are both great beaches to relax on, and for surfers be sure to head to Playa Negra. Other cool things to do here include biking to nearby Manzanillo, which is a secluded peninsular, as well as visit waterfalls such as Bribri.
Be sure to check out the Jaguar Rescue Sanctuary, who rehabilitate animals that have been abused or injured. Here you’ll learn about the amazing work they are doing, and also see many rare and exotic species.
La Fortuna
Located in the north of Costa Rica, La Fortuna is known for being the gateway to visiting Arenal Volcano. Arenal, known for its imposing and incredible appearance, reaches up to over 11,200ft in altitude, and is the tallest volcano in all of Costa Rica.
In this national park, you can also visit Lake Arenal for some impressive volcano views, as well as the Río Fortuna Waterfalls. This combo tour is a great pick as you’ll hike Arenal, visit the falls and also spend time in the relaxing hot springs.
La Fortuna itself is a small town, however is the best place to stay for getting outdoors and exploring the region.
Will you travel to Costa Rica soon? Remember to read our Costa Rica itinerary for more ideas on where to go and what to do during your travels.
Panama Backpacking Guide
The last country on our Central American list is the popular, yet chilled-out Panama.
Home to some truly incredible islands and wildlife, Panama is a must for those looking to relax on white, sandy beaches and to really kick back and enjoy the Panamanians and their warm, welcoming vibes.
From exploring lesser known gems such as remote islands and indigenous tribes to the popular Panama City, there’s a lot to cover for this incredible country. Let’s explore the very best to see and do below now!
Places to Visit in Panama
Bocas del Toro
An archipelago of islands, Bocas del Toro are situated in the north of Panama, close to Costa Rica. With 9 different islands and over 200 islets to explore, you can easily spend a few weeks getting to know the variety of awesome destinations on offer.
Isla Colon is the main hub, and is also where you’ll arrive when taking the ferry. Here you’ll find the best amenities, restaurants and nightlife.
Head to Playa Estrella to see many starfish lazing along the beach. The largest island, Isla Bastimentos, is the place to be for incredible beaches, such as Wizard beach and Polo beach. Snorkeling is also great here, and you’ll want to head to Coral Cay for some of the best, transparent waters.
Red-Frog beach is another popular visit, home to many of the small amphibians that live in the nearby jungle. Head to Isla Carenero to get more off the beaten path, with the island covered in forest which makes it perfect for short hikes.
Panama City
One of (if not the most) developed cities in Central America, Panama City is a colonial city to visit with many things going for it. Also with many cheap flights to here, this may be where you’ll kick off your Central American adventure.
The Panama Canal is by far the most popular destination to visit here. The 82km long waterway is one of the most important maritime passages in the world, which allows vessels to move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
You can visit many locks here, however the Gatun Lock of 85ft is the most impressive to see. Also be sure to visit Panama Viejo, which was the previous old capital of the city, which is a 10-minute drive from the downtown area.
Here you can see many historical ruins, visit the Old Panama Cathedral as well as climbing up the bell-tower get some great views over the old historic capital. From Panama City, you can also head on a tour deep into the jungle to visit the indigenous Emberá tribe.
This half-day trip is perfect, where you’ll visit the Panama Canal and other highlights with all transportation included between them.
San Blas Islands
These incredible islands are situated just off the Caribbean coast of Panama. Known for their world-class islets and beaches, the San Blas are inhabited by the native Kuna Yale tribe.
Despite pressure from Panama, the islands remain an autonomous zone of the country, and maintain their own traditional ways of doing things. This really makes it feel like a different country from the mainland when you visit.
As well as getting to know this special tribe, another great thing to do here is to explore the 365 different cayes and islands, with their crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. You can also try spear-fishing, and cooking whatever you catch for dinner that evening.
The best way to see these islands is by joining an overnight sailboat tour, which leaves either from Panama City or Cartagena in Colombia. Both trips head to the islands after a couple of days of open-water sailing, and then arrives at the other port.
Will you travel to Panama soon? Remember to read our Panama itinerary for more ideas on where to go and what to do during your travels.
Backpacking Central America
And that’s all for our comprehensive backpacking guide to Central America!
In this beast we’ve explored this small yet vibrant region of Latin America. We’ve looked at all of the best places to visit, top things to do, the different cultures of the region, budgeting advice, trip preparation and more.
Despite its small size, Central America really packs a punch.
Whilst most typically spend two or three months along the backpacking route here, it’s easy to spend many months at a time when really exploring these countries deeply.
Even more so if you are looking to learn Spanish, get good at surfing or in general fancy a slower backpacking pace.
We hope you enjoyed reading this Central America travel guide! If you have any questions or want advice, drop us a comment and we’ll get back to you.
If you want more inspiration just see this guide on best things to do in Central America for our bucket list destinations from this region.
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