Best Places to Visit in Central America
Welcome to our list of best places to visit in Central America.
Central America is full of amazing destinations to visit. From natural spectacles and ancient sites to unique, one-in-a-lifetime activities, this region of Latin America really has something to satisfy everyone.
Places to Visit in Central America
Below we’ll explore our very best 8 “Must See’s” in Central America (in no particular order), which are all truly incredible in their own right, and we believe should be added to any itinerary in this wonderful region.
You can also read this in conjunction with our more popular backpacking Central America travel guide which gives the full low down on each country.
The Bay Islands (Honduras)
Home to some of the most stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters in Central America, these islands are an absolute must-visit on any Central America itinerary.
One of the best things to do here includes learning to dive in Utila, as well as exploring the world-class beaches of Roatán.
Another must-do is to snorkel or dive the volcanic crevices in Roatán (which are among the best diving in all of Central America).
Those after adventure will love this all-action tour which includes riding a zip-line, traversing the island on an ATV and much more!
Lastly is to explore the untamed island of Guanaja, whose hilly mountains and thick vegetation make it perfect for off the beaten path hiking.
The easiest and most economical way of arriving is by first heading to the port city of La Ceiba in mainland Honduras, and then taking the ferry across to either Roatán or Utila.
To get to Guanaja, you’ll first need to head to Roatán then take a charter boat over. See our Honduras itinerary for more travel tips and adivce.
The Blue Hole (Belize)
One of the true outstanding natural phenomenons of Central America, The Blue Hole is a 400ft deep sinkhole located in the Caribbean Sea, located some 100km offshore from Belize.
It was a giant cave until rising sea levels flooded it some 15,000 years ago.
As mentioned in out Belize itinerary, the Blue Hole is known as one of the best diving sites in the World, here you can spot everything from Caribbean Reef Sharks and Blacktip Reef Sharks to Hammerhead Sharks.
Even if you don’t dive, this gem is worth seeing with its perfect circular shape, as well as its dark blue hue that provides a stark contrast with the light blues of the surrounding ocean.
You can take a boat out near to The Blue Hole, but the very best way to see it is by taking a small plane that flies directly over!
Lake Atitlán (Guatemala)
The deepest lake (as well as one of the largest) in all of Central America, Lake Atitlán sits at an altitude of 1560 metres, and is surrounded by imposing volcanoes and mysterious Mayan villages.
There are many things to do here which makes this area perfect for backpacking. You can hike around the lake, and also up to the San Pedro Volcano, which takes around 9 hours to summit.
As well as having the stunning panoramic views of the lake itself, there are many towns to explore here which each have their own unique vibe, including San Marcos, San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán.
You add this to your Guatemala itinerary by taking the bus from Guatemala City (as well as direct from the airport) to Lake Atitlán in around 3.5 hours. There’s also many daily departures from the popular backpacking spot of Antigua.
You can take this day tour from Antigua, which includes a boat ride as well as a guided tour around the market of Chichicastenango.
The Caribbean Coast (Costa Rica)
No Central America itinerary would be complete without visiting and relaxing on some world-class, white sandy beaches.
Costa Rica is the most popular country to visit for beaches in this region, with many coming to explore both the Caribbean and Pacific Coasts.
The Caribbean Coast, which stretches 210km along the east coast, is home to some truly extraordinary destinations and takes our pick.
Puerto Viejo is a must on any Costa Rica itinerary and one of the most popular, with its laid-back Caribbean vibes and stunning beaches making it difficult to leave when you had originally planned!
Cahuita National Park is only 16 kilometres from Puerto Viejo, however is much less touristy. As well as being home to some of the best waters for snorkelling, here you can spot lots of exotic wildlife such as boa constrictors, poisonous frogs and caiman.
Tortuguero National Park in the north is the best place to spot turtles, with over 35km of protected coast for turtles to nest and lay their eggs on.
Tikal Ruins (Guatemala)
These ruins were once the beating heart of the Mayan Empire. Whilst there are many other worthy archaeological sites to explore in Central America, Tikal takes the crown due to its fantastic range of both interesting and spectacular temples located within the Guatemalan Jungle.
Temple IV is the largest temple here in Tikal, and standing at over 70ft, gives some really impressive views over the rest of this ancient site.
Here you can also see the remains of many other important buildings, such as Royal Palaces, Courtyards and Administrative Buildings.
Located in the Petén region in northern Guatemala, getting to Tikal is relatively straightforward. The island of Flores is a popular backpacking spot, and from here there are dozens of daily buses that make the 1.5 hour trip to the archaeological zone.
Whilst you can go independently, this organised tour takes all the hassle out for you, which includes a professional guide as well as a tasty lunch too
San Blas Islands (Panama)
Want to visit the most beautiful islands in the region? How about going on a real adventure? Look no further than the San Blas Islands.
Located off the coast of Panama, these islands are arguably the most picturesque in all of Latin America.
Home to the native Kuna tribe who still inhabit these islands, the San Blas Archipelago comprises of 365 small cayes (one for each day of the year??), however only 49 are currently occupied.
You add San Blas to your Panama itinerary by taking the unique ferry tour direct from Panama City.
Here, you’ll spend a couple of days sailing in a small charter boat in the Caribbean, stopping to explore these incredible islands before then continuing across the open waters onto Cartagena in Colombia.
You can even head on an overnight trip to these islands, where you’ll stay in a private cabaña which includes all meals and additional activities too.
Santa Ana Volcano (El Salvador)
Arguably the best destination to visit and a must for any El Salvador itinerary or backpacking route. This volcano rarely gets a mention on most backpacking lists.
Whilst others prefer to focus on Arenal or Pacaya, it’s Santa Ana that we feel deserves its rightful place on our list of best places to visit in Central America.
This volcano has a beautiful circular dome that can be hiked up, revealing a sparkling, crystal-blue lagoon at its center.
As well as seeing the occasional cloud of smoke rising up into the atmosphere, once at the top you’ll also get some really outstanding views of the El Salvadorian wilderness.
This still-active volcano has an altitude of roughly 7900ft and takes around 3 hours to ascend. This climb is not too strenuous compared to some of the much higher volcanoes in Latin America (you also won’t need to acclimatize as much here).
Monteverde Cloud Forest (Costa Rica)
Located in the north-west of Costa Rica, this incredible cloud forest is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the country.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is well-known for its extremely rich biodiversity, housing over 50% of all native Costa Rican animals and plants!
Here you can spot many rare animals including capuchin and howler monkeys, sloths, jaguars, tapir and pumas.
It’s also home to the extremely elusive Golden Toad, which has not been sighted since 1988 (if you see it be sure to let us all know!).
As well as spotting nature, one of the best things to do includes riding the zip-line, which at an impressive 5200ft, is the longest in all of Latin America!
You can also walk along the infamous hanging bridges for some truly amazing views over the rainforest canopy.
If you’re a coffee lover, then be sure to go on a coffee tour, as Monteverde produces some of Central America’s finest due to its higher altitude and excellent climate.
We personally recommend joining this night tour, where your expert guide will show you everything from rare frogs and tarantulas to snakes and larger mammals
Places to Visit in Central America
This Central America Bucket List is to be read in conjunction with our Central America backpacking guides which included these destinations in more detail.
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