8 Must Visit Central American Destinations – There are so many beautiful places in Central America that choosing just eight to visit seems almost unfair. This incredible slice of the world is teeming with colorful wildlife, lush tropical paradises, and biodiversity like nowhere else on the planet. 

Many cities in Central America act as gateways to the wilderness. Tucked away in the beautiful mountains, the Cloud Forests, volcanic regions, or tropical islands, you can find a dream destination for any nature lover. These eight towns and cities are without a doubt the best Central American destinations for the avid ecotourist.

Listed Below are 8 Must Visit Central American Destinations

• Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Lake Atitlán prides itself on the fact that it hasn’t been cut down and polished to make way for tourists. Its lifestyle is still authentic, its scenery is still wild, and the local Mayans don’t dress in their traditional clothing just to impress visitors. Here, you’ll have a naturally beautiful Central American experience like no other.

Lake Atitlán was formed tens of thousands of years ago in a volcanic mega-explosion. Now, the vast, dramatic lake is still surrounded by a backdrop of stunning volcanoes, and you can hike, swim, boat, or tour through it all. The weather is warm and pleasant all year round, with no extreme cold or hot spells, and even the rainy season is still comfortable and mild. 

While you’re there, you can immerse yourself in indigenous culture, take an eco-tour of an organic coffee farm and village, or hike up the surrounding volcanoes. No matter your fitness level or adventurous streak, there’s something here for everyone–just make sure you’ve packed the proper hiking shoes, which can help you avoid injury and remain sure-footed. 

You can easily travel to Lake Atitlán from Antigua or Guatemala City. The primary town on the lake is Panajachel, where you can find comfortable hotels or take a boat ride to other accommodation around the lake. Lake Atitlán is an ideal place to relax and forget about the stresses of modern life. 

• Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

If you’ve ever looked into nature tourism destinations in Central America, you would have seen this towards the top of the list. This phenomenal geological location is the home of the youngest, most active volcano in Costa Rica, which laid dormant for hundreds of years until a sudden, infamous explosion in 1968. The eruption continued until 2010, making it one of the longest volcanic eruptions in modern history.

Now, Arenal Volcano National Park, located alongside the largest lake in Costa Rica, the majestic Lake Arenal, is world-famous for its diversity and beauty. It’s a popular location for birders, who come to catch glimpses of some of the country’s most elusive feathered creatures. Wildlife enthusiasts come to see and photograph white-faced capuchin monkeys, coatimundis, jaguars, and deer, and to capture the stunning landscapes these exotic animals inhabit. 

Arenal Volcano is located just 56 miles outside of Costa Rica’s capital city, San José, and its notoriety as a tourist destination means you’ll easily be able to find every amenity and accommodation you need in the cities nearby. You’ll also find luxurious hot springs to enjoy after a long day of hiking. Arenal Volcano is a must-see for any nature enthusiast visiting Costa Rica.

• Monteverde, Costa Rica

Few places on earth can sustain the rare, otherworldly biome called the Cloud Forest, and Monteverde is one of them.

Monteverde is undeniably one of the most famous ecotourism destinations in the entire world. National Geographic referred to the Monteverde Cloud Forest as “the jewel in the crown of cloud forest reserves.” It’s famous in part for its hundreds of unique species, including 400-plus native orchids, 750-plus trees, glass frogs, and unique Baird’s tapirs.

A Cloud Forest is so-called for its dense, relentless clouds of mist that consume the surrounding area, enshrouding the rich green forest in a mystical fog. The delicate balance needed to sustain life in its ecosystem is threatened by climate change and deforestation, making its very existence more rare and precious by the day. 

Monteverde’s popularity means you’ll have no trouble finding accommodation, tours, and other guided experiences. If you’re in Central America, don’t miss the chance to be awestruck by this incredible destination. 

• Ambergris Caye, Belize

Ambergris Caye is the largest island off of Belize, an English-speaking paradise getaway that’s popular with expats, retirees, and tourists alike. Here, relaxing on white sands and dipping into turquoise waters is all you’re expected to do, day in and day out.

San Pedro Town is the only major settlement here, but the island has been populated with maritime traders and fishermen for centuries. Nature lovers will adore snorkeling or scuba diving in the fantastic coral reef systems located just off the coast, but many aquatic enthusiasts come here to see the famous Blue Hole. 

The Blue Hole is a jaw-dropping circular sinkhole bordered by limestone, located a short trip away from Ambergris Caye. It looks like a strange, dark void until you see that its dark blue waters are teeming with sea life. Divers and naturalists fall in love with the tropical fish, coral reefs, shark species, and stunning views.

Of course, it can’t be perfect: Ambergris Caye doesn’t come cheap. However, if you’ve saved up enough to have a luxury vacation or a leisurely retirement here, you’ll be able to indulge in one of the finest tropical locales in the world.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/Kr8lXu5uvNo

• Dominical, Costa Rica

Simply search for Dominical, Costa Rica online and you’ll be inuated with pictures of a vibrant, surreal landscape that looks too much like a postcard to be real. Perfect, turquoise waters meet pebble beaches, lush jungles, and palm trees, all under a bright blue sky. 

Dominical is known primarily for its surfing, like many coastal towns in Central America. But at Dominical, you don’t have to take surf lessons to enjoy the surroundings. Its waters are also famous for their dolphin and whale watching experiences. For a remarkable nine months out of the year, you have a chance to spot humpback whales. Not far off the coast is the only place where whales from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres meet!

Ziplining experiences let you soar through the treetops, while jungle tours and hikes take you to waterfalls you can wade beneath. If hiking, bring along a sturdy travel backpack Navigating these rugged areas can be tough on a bag, and you want to make sure that everything you’re carrying remains on your person for the duration.

The rain-forest here is full of distinctive Central American animals like sloths, poison dart frogs, toucans, and capuchin monkeys. The area is very affordable for budget travelers, and it’s secluded, relaxing, and adventurous.

• Boquete, Panama

Boquete lies nestled in Panama’s green mountain highlands, near the country’s border with Costa Rica. Its cool climate, gorgeous scenery, and lively music and arts culture make it the perfect vacation destination for locals and foreigners alike. 

Due to its elevation, the city has a much more temperate climate than the surrounding area, giving it the title of “The Land of Eternal Springtime.” The tranquil atmosphere, clean water, and low cost of living have made it a very popular destination for expats from the United States and immigrants looking for a tropical escape. The culture of Boquete is multicultural, friendly, and laid-back.

The surrounding area is a playground for nature lovers. Nearby is an active volcano, Volcan Baru, which is one of the few places on earth where you can see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans at once. You can also visit Panama’s famous mountainside coffee plantations for a divine brew while you’re there. Boquete is a must-visit city for Central American travelers wishing to immerse themselves in both culture and nature.

• Tikal, Guatemala

You’ve probably heard of Tikal in a history class before: it’s one of the oldest archaeological sites of pre-Columbian Maya civilization, a shining example of an ancient and powerful kingdom that built unbelievable structures and monuments that date back to 900 B.C. Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as a fantastic place to visit.

Not only is this historical area a wonder to see, but it’s also tucked within a remarkable natural landscape. Trekking through the forest, you can discover spider monkeys, hundreds of bird species, and rare coatimundis. You can also go ziplining in two locations in the park for a bird’s-eye view of the surroundings.

Tikal Park is gigantic, and many structures have yet to be uncovered by archaeologists in the dense, beautiful jungle. It’s recommended to take a guided tour through Tikal so your experience of seeing the ruins is heightened by the astounding research and history of the area. Once you’re done exploring in Tikal, consider kicking back with a cold drink and celebrating your newfound appreciation for these remarkable Guatemalan landscapes. 

• Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Santa Teresa is a picturesque, seaside town that acts as a gateway to the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the most gorgeous, biodiverse places on the planet. Tucked away in a semi-remote part of Costa Rica, the Nicoya Peninsula is home to tranquil beaches, lively nightlife, dazzling rainforests, and the very first nature preserve in the country.

Santa Teresa beaches have just about everything. You can take surfing lessons from one of the world-class schools up and down the coast, or even scuba diving lessons to see the thriving local reefs. Rent every kind of boat or float you could imagine. Whether you’re paddle-boarding, sailing, parasailing, or simply splashing around, these idyllic waters offer something for everyone.

Santa Teresa is an easy base for hundreds of different awe-inspiring day trips. Hike to Montezuma Falls, take a tour through the remarkable Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, or take a boat out to a number of isolated, beautiful islands. Santa Teresa is a must-visit to enjoy the Pura Vida and live your Central American experience to the fullest. 

Taking It All In 

There is so much natural beauty to be experienced in Central America, that it can become overwhelming when planning a trip. However, with some recommendations and an understanding of the landscape, cultures, and opportunities on offer, you’re sure to curate an adventurous itinerary that will be both memorable and educational.