best places visit central america

The 14 best Places to visit in Central America: ruins, reefs, and romantic beaches

May 3, 2022 • 9 min read

Tikal is a thrilling Mayan site in the middle of the Guatemalan jungle © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet

If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking a volcano, exploring ancient ruins and snorkeling across a coral reef all in one trip, then  Central America is the place for you.

Its seven countries offer some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. History buffs will have a hard time choosing between Maya ruins and colonial cities. Nature lovers can stalk monkeys and sloths on treks through the jungle. Or watch newly hatched turtles scramble for the sea. Surfers and beach bums will be satisfied, too – there are endless seaside dream destinations.

Whatever you choose to do, the results won’t disappoint. (You could even do the lot.) Short regional flights and an extensive bus network make it easy to visit several countries in one trip. To narrow it down, here are the 14 best places to visit in Central America. Be warned, though: wherever it is you go, you run the risk of never wishing to leave.

1. Splash about on Ambergris Caye in Belize

Dubbed La Isla Bonita (The Beautiful Island), Belize ’s most popular vacation island offers sun-drenched days, ritzy resorts and an imaginative culinary scene. The bustling city center, San Pedro, boasts some can’t-miss nightlife, too. But travelers flock here mainly because of the island’s bathtub-warm waters and flourishing undersea environment.

Whether you aim to dive off an island dock and backstroke in the surf, kayak through a mangrove lagoon, or snorkel over brightly colored reefs alongside nurse sharks and small stingrays, Ambergris Caye has you covered.

2. Marvel at Guatemala’s spectacular Lago de Atitlán 

Ringed by lush hillsides and towering volcanoes, Central America’s deepest lake is an escape to simpler times. The aquamarine waters of this endorheic crater basin lure travelers from all over the globe. It’s also home to several diverse communities that proudly display their traditional Guatemalan ways of living.

Most travelers come here for long-distance kayaking and volcano climbing. Lively San Pedro La Laguna is great for throwing it down, too. But Lago de Atitlán also attracts those wanting to learn Spanish, practice yoga or stay with a local family. Whatever you do, take some time to relax and reflect as the gentle waters of this glorious lake lap against the shore. 

3. Get a taste of island life at Bocas del Toro in Panama

Dotted with Caribbean-style clapboard houses and awash with dockside restaurants and hotels, this stunning archipelago is Panama's hottest ticket. Its swaying coco palms and translucent blue water attract throngs of international travelers – some who’ve stayed forever, forming a sizable expat community.

During the day, you can pedal a beach cruiser around, snorkel among giant sea stars, surf reef breaks, tour chocolate farms and feast on delicious Caribbean fare. In the evenings, Latin rhythms and clinking glasses fill the air on Islas Colón .

4. Discover the forest-covered Mayan city of Tikal in Guatemala

If you strolled this ground 1200 years ago, you’d be walking through a thriving Mayan metropolis. Today, Guatemala ’s most significant archaeological site is all haunting ruins and twisting jungle – interrupted only by the occasional cacophony of bird squawks and howling monkeys. 

Tikal once rivaled Rome for size, population and political clout, but a millennium of dense overgrowth has since reclaimed the remains of this once-mighty empire. The sprawling park merits multi-day explorations: either base yourself in laid-back, lakeside Flores  or stay on the site to see the sun rise over these majestic, ancient temples.

5. Get under the skin of Panama City

The glistening steel-and-glass skyline of Central America’s most hustling, bustling capital city is only its tiara. The heart and soul of the city lie in its older districts, such as Casco Viejo . This area brims with restored colonial buildings, many of which are now boutique hotels, swanky restaurants, and countless rooftop bars. 

Seek out the crumbling 16th-century ruins of Panamá Viejo – part of the original city – as well as the rollicking nightlife of Calle Uruguay. The city's casinos also add another level of excitement. Visitors can drive west to see the ingenious lock system of the world-famous Panama Canal . The rainforest and beach are only a coconut toss away too.

6. Drive Ruta de las Flores, El Salvador’s best road trip

For a glimpse into the soul of El Salvador, cruise the 20 miles between Sonsonate and Ahuachapan in a car. The local villages, artisanal shops, fragrant coffee plantations and colorful wildflower meadows are essentially the entire (admittedly small) country writ small. 

Stop at any of the five main settlements over a weekend, and you’ll find them abuzz with food extravaganzas and merrymaking. Leave ample opportunity to shop for crafts and gulp the coffee, regardless of when you go. Don’t be afraid to veer off the main route either: at Los Chorros de Calera, you can hike among the cliffs and dive into waterfall-fed swimming holes. 

7. Fall in love at romantic Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio  is for lovers. Dozens of exquisite hotels perch on cliffs overlooking the cerulean Pacific on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica . Beyond the lavish accommodations, the area’s romantic dining establishments, picturesque beaches and invigorating spa treatments define this welcoming destination. 

As a bonus, wildlife encounters are all but guaranteed. Squirrel monkeys swing by at breakfast while iguanas bask with guests by the pool, and true nature lovers can also spy on sloths at the nearby Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio . Thrill-seeking honeymooners will also be satisfied, as all the requisite Costa Rica adventures – zip-lining, white-water rafting, kayaking and more – are just beyond your doorstep.

8. Wander in awe around Granada, Nicaragua’s oldest city

Granada is one of the oldest colonial cities in the region, and no trip across Central America is complete without exploring well-preserved architecture. Upon arrival, hop in a horse-drawn carriage and ride around town as you admire the ubiquitous hand-painted tiles and colonial homes. 

In Parque Central, the mustard-yellow Catedral de Granada  presides over the square, where food vendors and handicraft artisans hawk their goods. Over by the lake, get into a boat or kayak for a tour of Las Isletas – a bunch of volcanic islands just off the city’s shore – where you’ll find fancy vacation homes and an old Spanish fortress.

9. Chill on the beaches of Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean Coast

The pace on Costa Rica’s Caribbean shoreline is decidedly sloth-like. And that’s exactly why travelers can’t get enough of it. They come here to slow down, sip on fresh coconuts, lounge on graham-cracker-colored beaches and bathe in the toasty blue-green water. 

For those who insist on more active experiences, there are plenty of jungle hikes, cacao farm tours and snorkeling excursions to sign up for. Wild, all-night parties are always an option, too. Just remember to fuel up first on the spectacular local cuisine: think whole fried snapper with a side of coconut rice and fried plantains, washed down with agua de sapo (unrefined sugar, limes, and ginger known as “toad juice”).

10. Party the night away at Playa El Tunco in El Salvador

Named for a distinctive pig-shaped rock ( tunco means pig), this black-sand paradise is famous for its beach breaks and even more famous for its hard-partying surfer crowd. Weekend mayhem tops the agendas of locals and tourists alike, with everybody nursing their hangovers the next day with thin-crust pizza from Tunco Veloz . 

Those seeking a more laid-back experience need only travel a few minutes in either direction to arrive at tranquil, secluded beaches. In the windswept wilderness of Barrio Santiago, turtles hatch along the shore.

11. Joining the backpacking crowd on Utila in Honduras

If you’ve got big travel dreams but a little budget, Utila is just the spot, particularly if you’re looking to don some flippers. The dreamy turquoise waters off this palm-dotted Caribbean island in Honduras are replete with surreal coral formations and curious fish, and diver certification courses here are some of the world’s least expensive. 

All year round, snorkelers and divers can shimmy around near whale sharks on the island's northern tip. Then, when the adventures are over, some tasty seafood and a lively bar scene await. 

12. Chow down on Caribbean food on Nicaragua’s Corn Islands

If you like it spicy, head for Central America’s Caribbean – in particular,  these two remote islands off the eastern coast of Nicaragua. This is the region’s epicenter of spiny lobster, and plenty of locals make a living off ensnaring it. After you’ve had your fill of the coveted crustacean, bite down on whole fried snapper, a heaping plate of rice and beans, and the famous rondon , a local soup with fish, shellfish, tubers, heart of palm, plantains, peppers and piles of spices.

On Great Corn – the larger and busier of the two islands – restaurants serve this stew year-round. The ingredients must simmer all day in a spicy coconut broth, though, so you’ll need to give 24 hours' notice for your order. 

13. Admire the ancient Mayan sculptures of Copán in Honduras

Of all the Maya ruins scattered around Central America, Copán has the most impressive chiseled stone sculptures. Human-sized carvings are scattered across this Unesco World Heritage site, which is tucked into a scenic river valley that as many as 20,000 people once called home. 

A day spent peering around these temples and the surrounding sites offers a deep dive into the region’s past. Don’t miss the revered hieroglyphic stairway, which describes the history of the ancient city’s rulers in the longest inscription of Maya text known to man. The neighboring town of Copán Ruinas has boutique hotels; you can also stay in the nearby pine-forested hills at Hacienda San Lucas.

14. Dive Blue Hole Natural Monument in Belize

Just as climbers have Mt Everest, scuba divers have Belize’s Blue Hole National Monument . They dive more than 100ft into this massive submarine sinkhole, cruising past oversized stalactites and sometimes encountering large, powerful reef sharks as they stare down into the 430ft abyss. 

On the nearby islands of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker , you’ll find environmentally friendly and highly experienced tour operators. But travelers seeking a more adventurous experience should consider a stay on Long Caye, a small and secluded island just minutes from the country’s most coveted underwater attractions.

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The Best Places to Visit in Central America

Joel Sharpe/Getty Images

Central America is a great place to visit. With seven countries to choose from—each packed with stunning natural and cultural attractions—it can be hard to decide where to go. Luckily, we've compiled the top Central America travel destinations for you to explore. 

To give you just a little more help, you'll want to explore ways to take in as much of Central America as possible in just two weeks. Also, backpacking is a great way to get around on a seriously tight budget.

Beaches and Islands

Although there is no end to Central America’s attractions, most travelers make a beeline straight to the best beaches and islands.

Due to the isthmus' warm waters, flourishing marine life, and soft sands spanning two diverse coastlines, the epicenter of the Central America tourism industry is along the edges. From rollicking Pacific shores to outlying Caribbean isles , the beaches of Central America are truly unbeatable.

Costa Rica is the most popular destination in Central America for a reason. Though small in size, the country contains 5 percent of the world's biodiversity. For travelers, that means countless pristine beaches , tumbling jungles, and abundant flora and fauna.

To top it all off, Costa Rica boasts an amicable society founded upon kicking back and enjoying the scenery. It's everything you need for a great vacation.

Nicaragua is off the beaten path for the typical traveler, and yet it contains some of the world's most captivating scenery.

Home to the second largest rainforest in the Americas and the largest freshwater volcanic island in the world, Nicaragua's land mass holds 7 percent of the earth's biodiversity. After years of unrest, Nicaragua is emerging as the new Costa Rica at a fraction of the expense.

Although Belize is docked upon Central America's mainland, it’s an island of diversity. The country’s tiny fingernail of land is a natural and cultural wonderland, a thriving swirl of jungles, rivers, and beaches peopled by Mayans and the Garifuna.

Yet, travelers spend much of their time off the coast among Belize's brilliant waters, far-flung cayes, and the second largest barrier reef in the world. 

Guatemala is truly one-of-a-kind, a country of impossible vistas and staggering beauty. Over 40 percent of its population is of Mayan descent, the majority of which still don multicolored indigenous apparel.

Travelers are enchanted by Guatemala's gracious and fascinating culture, as well as the towering volcanoes, forested mountains, and Mayan ruins of unsurpassed quality. It is a central component in the popular La Ruta Maya , a popular travel plan that stretches from Mexico to Guatemala City.

El Salvador

El Salvador , though one of the world's smaller countries, holds numerous elements found in the rest of the Central American region, it's just in miniature form.

Many travelers claim that the country's ancient Mayan sites, volcanoes, jungles, and beaches rival those of its neighbors. At the same time, the hospitality of its people is unmatched anywhere in the world. And, because of its size, every attraction is easily accessible.

Though Honduras has a history of conflict, more travelers are discovering the country's abundant attractions. Drawing the most visitors are the Caribbean Bay Islands, Utila, Roatan, and Guanaja , each boasting some of the cheapest and best scuba diving in the world.

Honduras is also home to the captivating Mayan ruins at Copan . It has both a stunning natural landscape and a welcoming population.

Panama's location alone is intriguing. It literally serves as a land bridge between North and South America.

The country’s natural attractions are equally intriguing, from its virgin white sand beaches to its impenetrable rainforest. While the Panama Canal  is not natural, it does top every traveler’s itinerary because it's an astonishing manifestation of human ingenuity. 

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Home | Travel | Central America | 7 Best Places to Visit in Central America in 2024

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Central America is one of the top destinations in the world for ecotourism, and the best places to visit in Central America immerse you in the natural environment. If you love the outdoors, you’ll have a blast exploring the volcanoes of Guatemala, the wildlife of Costa Rica, the beaches of Panama, and beyond.

Moreover, this region has a rich Mesoamerican history, with historic Mayan ruins in Belize, Honduras, and other Central American countries . The biodiversity here is astounding, with hundreds of unique species, rare, endemic animals, and lush vegetation.

It’s hard to choose the best vacation spot in Central America , so in this guide, I’ll share the most noteworthy cities, attractions, and natural areas. Before I do though, I suggest getting a policy from one of the best travel insurance companies , so you’re covered in case you get injured or sick.

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Also, if you want to stay connected during your trip for things like email or Google Maps, check out the Holafly eSIM . We use it whenever we travel and it has options for Central America, so I highly recommend it if you need internet while traveling .

1. Costa Rica, the best place in Central America to visit for outdoor enthusiasts

Costa Rica is one of the best destinations in Central America thanks to its wealth of attractions and interesting sights. It’s also one of the safest places in Central America , although I still recommend getting travel insurance for Costa Rica so you’re covered in case anything happens.

Outdoor enthusiasts will never run out of things to do here, from hiking and ziplining to rafting and snorkeling. Whale-watching in Costa Rica is also a must-do. We took this excursion and would do it again in a heartbeat.

If you want to see more Central American wildlife , head to Tortuguero National Park , an incredible protected area and refuge for the green turtle. This canoe tour will help you discover the biodiversity of the park while you explore the channels of Tortuguero.

As one of the best countries in Central America for ecotourism , Costa Rica has amazing natural areas for you to explore. Manuel Antonio National Park is full of rainforests, beautiful bird species, and animals like sloths and the endangered Titi monkey. It’s a small park, but you’ll get the most out of your visit by taking this tour .

For something a bit different, check out the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve , a subtropical rainforest with low-hanging moisture. This guided tour offers magical experiences like ziplining through the mist-shrouded canopy, walking across impressive suspension bridges, and visiting a lush butterfly garden.

You also can’t miss the Arenal Volcano , a 5,350-foot-tall active stratovolcano. Take a hike around the mountain to see the beautiful surroundings and the nearby geothermal hot springs. Finally, this country is full of scenic beaches, so head to the shores of Guanacaste for the best beaches in Costa Rica .

We have a full guide to plan your trip to Costa Rica , so check it out and we will help you in every step. I’ve also written an article on where to stay in Costa Rica , you will find great resorts, but these are three of my favorite hotels:

• Urban Green Hotel & Suites (San José)
• Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio)
• Wyndham Tamarindo (Tamarindo)
• Selina La Fortuna (La Fortuna)

2. Guatemala, the best place to visit in Central America for culture

Guatemala is one of the best countries in Central America , full of Mayan ruins, stunning landscapes, and cities rich in culture. One of its most famous sites is Tikal National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian Maya. To take in the full scope of this place, I recommend this day tour to see the main temples and plazas.

These ruins are one of the most beautiful places in Central America , and about an hour south, you can see the natural beauty of Lake Pet én Itz á . Travel further south, and you’ll find Lake Atitl án , Guatemala’s most famous lake and the deepest lake in Central America. This day trip will take you to the legendary watering hole as well as several lakeside towns like Panajachel and Chichicastenango, which is known for its bustling outdoor market.

Another wonderful attraction and swimming spot is the Semuc Champey Natural Monument , a natural limestone bridge with a series of turquoise pools. Of course, you can’t miss your chance to visit Guatemala’s magnificent volcanoes. Hiking up the Pacaya Volcano to its sulfuric summit is quite an experience, and as you climb, you’ll spot small eruptions and lava flows while enjoying views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes.

Finally, some of the best cities in Central America are in Guatemala, including the capital of Guatemala City , Quetzaltenango , and the old capital of Antigua . The latter is a popular departure point for many tours, although this guided walk through the city is super interesting and highlights Antigua’s Baroque-influenced architecture.

• Wyndham Garden Guatemala City (Guatemala City)
• Hotel Aurora (Antigua)
• Hotel Casazul (Flores)

3. Belize, the best place to visit in Central America for incredible landscapes

Belize may be one of the smaller countries, but it can’t be missing from your tour through Central America . This place has it all, from ancient Mayan temples to outdoor activities and some of the best beaches in Central America .

Mainland Belize is home to incredible ruins like those at Lamanai . A hub for Mesoamerican civilization, this site has imposing structures like the Mask Temple, Jaguar Temple, and High Temple. Nearby, you can see the striking pyramid temples of Altun Ha , including the 52-foot-tall Temple of the Masonry Altars.

It’s also worth taking a day trip further south to the Caracol Ruins . Located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, this lowland Mayan city boasts old plazas, ruins, and gorgeous waterfall and hot spring trails. Another interesting excursion is this one to Xunantunich , a historic Mayan archaeological complex with over 25 structures and ceremonial centerpieces. Along the same lines, this cave tour goes to Actun Tunichil Muknal , a sacred site that was used by the Maya for sacrifices, bloodletting, and other ritualistic services.

Besides its rich historical value, Belize is one of the safest places in Central America , and a haven for divers. Off the coast, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is an incredible habitat for sea turtles, sharks, manatees, and other marine life. A declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s home to the Great Blue Hole , a giant sinkhole measuring nearly 1,050 feet across and over 400 feet deep.

For an unforgettable snorkeling session, do this excursion , which explores the Hol Chan marine reserve and its coral reef. The tour departs from Caye Caulker , a small island with lovely beaches. Its larger neighbor, Ambergris Caye , is ideal for watersports, while the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize is perfect for beach bums.

• Golden Bay Belize Hotel (Belize City)
• Mahogany Bay Resort and Beach Club (San Pedro)
• Colinda Cabanas (Caye Caulker)
• Ka’ana Resort & Spa (San Ignacio)

4. Panama, the best place to visit in Central America for a holiday

Linking Central and South America, Panama is best known for the Panama Canal , a 51-mile artificial waterway and a top tourist attraction in Central America . This tour is a great introduction to the canal, its pirate history, and the old forts in the area. Another interesting option is this canal cruise to see the famous Miraflores Locks, Pedro Miguel Locks, and the Bridge of the Americas.

You can see lots more historic and cultural sites in the capital, Panama City , which is home to museums, open-air markets, and a waterfront promenade along the canal. This walking tour shows you all the highlights, including the old town, the national theater, and “El Tornillo,” a corkscrew-shaped skyscraper. Moreover, the Panama Canal spills into Lake Gatun, which is filled with small islets like Monkey Island , where you can meet wild monkeys and other critters.

On the other hand, the San Blas Islands off the north coast of Panama are worth visiting, too. It’s a hotspot for water activities, so I suggest taking this day trip to enjoy paddleboarding and snorkeling along the seabed. You’ll also get to taste the fresh tropical fruits and mingle with the friendly locals.

In addition, the northwestern province of Bocas del Toro contains gorgeous beaches, a biodiverse rainforest, and vibrant nightlife. To the south, the mountain town of Boquete is known for its coffee plantations and ancient petroglyphs, so it’s a wonderful hidden gem.

Finally, off the southwestern coast of Panama, there are some of the most beautiful places in Central America , like Coiba Island. It’s home to Coiba National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1,000 square miles of forests, beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves that protect several species of whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures.

• Crowne Plaza Airport (Panama City)
• Tryp by Wyndham Panama Centro (Panama City)
• Bambuda Lodge (Bocas Town)

5. Nicaragua, the best place in Central America to visit for an exciting vacation

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest Central American countries , and the perfect place for outdoorsy types since the landscape is dotted with volcanoes and coastal biosphere reserves.

The southwestern region of Nicaragua is a hub for geothermal activity, and one of the most exciting spots is the Masaya Volcano , which is made of several calderas and craters. For the best experience, I recommend taking a night tour to see the glowing lava and to learn more about Masaya’s impact on the country’s landscape.

To the east of Masaya, you’ll find the Mombacho Volcano , a stratovolcano that last erupted in 1570. Mombacho stands out for its otherworldly cloud forest and rare endemic species. The best way to explore it is with this guided hike to the summit, which passes craters, red-eyed frogs, and other natural wonders.

Without a doubt, Nicaragua has some of the best volcano tours in Central America , so I also suggest this excursion to Cerro Negro . You’ll enjoy a scenic hike, then volcano board down the ash-covered hill before visiting Le ón , a city known for its huge Baroque cathedral.

Between the Masaya and Mombacho volcanoes, sits Lake Nicaragua , which contains over 360 small islands. These Islets of Granada were formed by the Mombacho eruption, and they aren’t the only geological formations in the lake. The two volcanoes also formed Ometepe Island , a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This day trip from Granada explores the island’s native flora and fauna and includes a traditional meal and beach visit.

Speaking of Granada , it’s among Nicaragua’s most interesting cities, thanks to its colonial history, cultural institutions, and old structures. It’s not far from the Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve , a tropical dry forest with over 500 plant and tree species, hundreds of bird species, and a variety of animals like white-faced capuchin monkeys and jaguarundis.

• Selina Granada (Granada)
• Hotel La Omaja (Mérida)
• Hotel Globales Camino Real Managua (Managua)

6. Honduras, another one of the best places to visit in Central America

Honduras is a unique place to visit in Central America , and while it’s not the safest country, you’ll be fine if you stay in the touristy areas.

One of those is Roatán Island , an island paradise with beautiful cays and mangrove forests. There is also a marine park here that protects the ancient coral reef, making it an amazing destination in Central America for snorkeling and diving tours .

Moreover, this half-day tour provides an overview of Roatán, its beaches, and its suspension bridges. If you’re an animal lover, this excursion to Roatán’s monkey and sloth sanctuary is a must-do.

Next to Roatán, you’ll find Utila , another island with great diving spots and hiking trails. It’s also worth mentioning Cayos Cochinos , two small islets off the coast of La Ceiba where you can see the ultra-rare pink boa. If you’re around La Ceiba, check out Pico Bonito National Park or the Lancetilla Botanical Gardens , one of the largest botanical gardens in Latin America.

To the east, the Rio Plátano Biosphere Reserve is notable for its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Mesoamerican archaeological sites, and vast array of fauna. To the west, Lake Yojoa is the largest lake in Honduras, with lava flows and volcanic craters dating back to the Pleistocene and Holocene eras.

Finally, all the way west, by the Guatemala border, there are the famous Cop án Ruins . This relic of Mayan civilization is a must-see in Central America and full of monuments, plazas, palaces, and pyramids. There’s a lot to see here, so consider booking a hotel by the ruins. That way, you can also take this day trip from Copán to the Luna Jaguar hot springs.

• Berakah B&B – Central Park (Copán Ruins)
• Infinity Bay Spa & Beach Resort (West Bay)
• Hotel Las Hamacas (La Ceiba)

7. El Salvador, the best place in Central America to visit for a unique experience

Lastly, a visit to Central America isn’t complete without seeing El Salvador . Spend some time in the capital city of San Salvador , either on your own or with this half-day tour . Among the city’s highlights, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza El Salvador del Mundo, the National Palace, and the nearby crater lake of Ilopango stand out.

About 1.5 hours west of San Salvador, the breathtaking landscape of the Santa Ana Volcano is waiting. You can take a guided hike to enjoy the largest volcano in the country and its green crater lagoon. Nearby, the Izalco Volcano is known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” thanks to its high elevation of 6,400 feet. If you can’t decide, this volcano tour includes the Santa Ana and Izalco volcanoes, as well as Cerro Verde National Park. You’ll also see the Joya de Cer én Archaeological Site , which contains ancient Mayan remains and is known as the Pompeii of the Americas.

There are more pre-Columbian ruins in the area, such as the pyramids of San Andr és that date back to 900 B.C. The ancient city of Cihuat án was a major Mayan hub and still has old ceramic effigies and ceremonial structures. Tazumal is another cool place in Central America with ancient metal artifacts, pyramid temples, and chacmool sculptures.

In addition to history and culture, El Salvador has countless natural wonders. The huge crater lake of Coatepeque and the waterfalls of Tamanique are both prime hiking spots. Just 45 minutes from the capital, Boquerón National Park offers guided hikes through the volcanic scenery.

To the southwest, El Imposible National Park is another park with lush tropical vegetation and biodiversity. If you’re in the area, consider doing the Ruta de las Flores , which goes through several picturesque villages and local towns.

• Hotel Villa Serena Escalon (San Salvador)
• Sheraton Presidente San Salvador (San Salvador)
• Hotel Florencia (San Miguel)

Now that you know the best places to visit in Central America , all that’s left is to plan your trip . Maybe it’s easier with these travel discounts !

Of course, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below if you have questions about this guide, or if you want to share your favorite place in Central America .

Hopefully, this list of Central American countries helped you, and I know that whichever one you choose, you’ll have an amazing time. Stay safe and have a fantastic trip!

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3 replies on “ 7 Best Places to Visit in Central America in 2024 ”

Hi, I love your write up! Any recommendations for a rough itinerary for 2 weeks in Central America and a desire to visit at least 2 other countries besides Costa Rica?

Not sure if we should fly between some countries, or drive between others, or which ones to pick. I truly appreciate any feedback!

That is a very personal opinion, but if you are going to be traveling only for 2 weeks, I would spend the two weeks in Costa Rica and still you won’t have time to see the most important attractions there.

I agree with Costa Rica suggestion. There are some restrictions but you can still move around freely and entry requirements are not terrible. I would say that 2 weeks is enough if you don’t spend too much time in the capital. Suggested itenerary: San Jose – La Fortuna, Puerto Viejo, Drive back to San Jose for a night and then head to Pacific Coast. You can fly regional plane to save time. On Pacific: Uvita, Santa Teresa, and Nosara. Don’t bother with Jaco or Tamarindo. Good luck.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Central America

Central America is the thin section of land that links the North American continent with the South American continent. The region is made up of seven small, mostly tropical countries that would be easy to skip on a map. Yet they represent a complex mixture of cultures, ancient ruins, tropical wildlife, active volcanoes and great beaches.

Mexico is occasionally considered part of Central America due to the language and cultural heritage it shares with several of its southern neighbors. This list of best places to visit in Central America however, focuses only on the countries of Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama.

Map of Central America

10. Leon, Nicaragua

A thriving university town and one of the country’s oldest and largest cities, Leon is Nicaragua’s political and intellectual center. Situated along the Chiquito River northwest of the capital city, Managua, Leon is rich in Spanish colonial architecture as well as arts and culture, and teeming in students and backpackers.

Easily explored by walking and biking, Leon offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities. The city boasts more colonial churches than other Nicaraguan city, and visitors can tour several of these churches to admire artistic works and check out the tombs of important historical figures like that of the country’s most beloved poet, Rubén Darío. Among these churches is the Leon Cathedral, one of the largest in Central America. Other significant landmarks in Leon are Guadalupe Cemetery, Guadalupe Bridge and the Sutiava Rural House. Also known for its treasure trove of art, Leon has several museums, art centers and many public murals.

Located just a few miles inland of the Pacific Ocean, Leon is also home to popular beaches like Poneloya and Las Peñitas, which offer water activities and nightlife options. Just outside of the city, visitors can hire ruletos (trucks operating as buses) to the nearby volcanoes, rivers and mangrove forests to enjoy hiking, kayaking and wildlife viewing.

As a city that is host to students from all over the world, Leon features a variety of dining choices to suit every taste and budget. The market is a good place to find local dishes such as fried cheese, beans and rice, and cheese-stuffed plantains. Also plentiful are bars, clubs and dance halls throbbing with salsa dancing.

9. Copan, Honduras

Once an important Mayan center of government, art, culture and astronomy, Copan today is a large complex consisting of two large pyramids, several plazas, a ball court and numerous stone temples, altars and stelae, which are famous for their hieroglyphics and intricate carvings that depict history, events, beliefs and customs of the ancient Mayans.

8. Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

Until the past few years, Arenal was the most active volcano in Costa Rica, and it’s frequent, small explosions once provided incredible shows of spewing lava. However, in 2010, Arenal’s cycle entered into a resting phase, putting an indeterminate pause on the eruptions. Nevertheless, the area surrounding Arenal still offers plenty of outstanding sights and exciting activities.

7. Granada, Nicaragua

One of Nicaragua’s largest cities, Granada is also one of the country’s oldest and most historically important centers, featuring a wealth of Spanish history and well-preserved colonial architecture. Located in western Nicaragua along the shores of Lake Nicaragua, Granada offers tourists plenty to see and do from sightseeing to outdoor recreation and arts and culture.

A tour of the city center awards sights of multicolored colonial buildings, landmarks, old churches, a Spanish fort and a lively market buzzing with vendors selling produce and handicrafts. Museums and art galleries showcase the city’s history, art, culture and production of cigars and chocolate.

Granada’s Central Park is a wide open green space with food kiosks where people can relax and enjoy picnics and outdoor recreation. Nearby Lake Nicaragua and its many islets offer fishing, swimming, boating, horseback riding and archaeological sites, while a little further out, volcanoes and rainforest offer hiking, canopy tours and wildlife viewing.

6. Panama City

Panama’s capital and largest city, Panama City , is a concentration of modern high-rise towers rising up from a surrounding tropical rainforest. A vibrant, cosmopolitan city made prosperous by the development of the Panama Canal, Panama City is one of the best places to visit in Central America.

While a visit to the city’s most famous attraction, the Panama Canal, ranks at the top of most sightseeing itineraries, exploring the cobblestone streets and colonial buildings of the historic quarter, Casco Viejo, is also a must-do.

5. Antigua Guatemala

Set against the pictorial backdrop of three imposing volcanoes in the central highlands of Guatemala, the beautiful, old colonial town of Antigua is one of the country’s top tourist destinations.

A major center for learning the Spanish language, Antigua provides a plethora of impressive sights and activities. Just a simple stroll through the city center awards views of spectacular architecture, historic churches and prominent landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch.

4. Ambergris Caye

The largest of Belize’s several hundred islands, Ambergris Caye is a dreamy, tropical place where shorts and flip-flops are the dress code, golf carts are the mode of transportation, and lazing away on sandy white beaches is the primary activity.

A short plane flight or ferry ride from Belize City, Ambergris Caye is one of Belize’s top travel destinations because it presents the ultimate Caribbean getaway with classic beaches, world-class accommodations, fabulous dining and ultra relaxation.

3. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica

Located in central Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is one of the country’s most coveted tourist destinations due to its astonishing natural beauty and abundance of activities including ziplining and canopy tours.

The reserve however is most famous for its extraordinary biodiversity: Around 400 species of birds are found here, more than 100 species of mammals including howler and capuchin monkeys and 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles. Along with the mega-diversity of wildlife, there are 2,500 species of plants, 420 of which are orchids.

2. Roatan, Honduras

A prominent scuba diving destination and cruise ship port-of-call, Roatan is the largest of the Bay Islands, off the east coast of Honduras. Surrounded by the second-largest barrier reef in the world, Roatan is a prime spot for diving and snorkeling. What’s more, the island’s beaches provide an array of activities from swimming to kayaking and dolphin watching.

1. Tikal, Guatemala

Located in the tropical rainforest of the Petén province in northern Guatemala, Tikal was one of the largest cities of the ancient Mayan civilization. Archaeologists estimate that, at its peak, Tikal’s population ranged from 50,000 to 100,000 inhabitants.

Among the many Mayan sites in Central America, Tikal is perhaps the most breathtaking due to its jungle setting with impressive temples poking through the canopy. Visitors can climb to the top of a few of the pyramids and get panoramic views from above the treetops.

Share this post:

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Reader interactions.

December 28, 2019 at 6:59 am

I have visited three of your top ten… Antigua, Roatan, and Granada. I make my way most of the time through El Salvador, never had an issue. However, my heart belongs to the Bay Islands and frequently visit, every 3-4 months.

June 26, 2018 at 6:07 pm

Where’s my country El Salvador? It’s not as dangerous as Honduras.

July 6, 2016 at 10:28 am

El Salvador is the most dangerous country you can go to in Central America, I can see why it is not here. I don’t think it’s worth the risk. Yes, Honduras as well. Guatemala is dangerous as well but not in the tourist areas, just stay away from the capital. A place that was not mentioned here from Guatemala is Chemuc Champay (sorry if I misspelled that), siete altares, and Laguna Lechua. Also, if you like seeing other cucltures, try going to Livingston, where you can enjoy the Garifuna culture.

April 14, 2016 at 3:21 pm

El Salvador is the forgotten pardise! Try to go! It has the perfect climate, good food and the nicest people in Central America! Seeing is believing! you will never know if you never ever go!

March 7, 2016 at 4:22 pm

Guatemala is the best country in central America to go travel.I reccomend this place for anyone to go.

January 24, 2016 at 6:57 pm

You said they are easy to skip on a map and of course you did you skiped El Salvador

May 24, 2014 at 3:11 am

Belize is a great place!

February 23, 2014 at 12:17 am

Planning to trip very soon to Belize and would like more travel info.

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The 20 Best Places to Visit in Central America (For Nature Lovers)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Creating a “best of” list for any given region, country, or continent is a thankless task.

There’s really no way to be objective, and of course it’s impossible to visit EVERY place in a given destination unless you live there.

So consider our overview of 20 Best Places to Visit in Central America to be a general bucket list of hot spots to visit, particularly if you love nature, wildlife, history, and indigenous culture.

READ MORE: T he 16 Best Mayan Ruins to Explore

Best Places to Visit in Central America

• ATM Cave (Belize)
• Belize Barrier Reef (Belize)
• The Cayes  (Belize)
• Hopkins Village  (Belize)
• Arenal Volcano National Park (Costa Rica)
• Corcovado National Park  (Costa Rica)
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve  (Costa Rica)
• Tirimbina Biological Reserve  (Costa Rica)
• Tortuguero National Park  (Costa Rica)
• Antigua (Guatemala)
• Lake Atitlán  (Guatemala)
• Tikal  (Guatemala)
• Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (Honduras)
• Roatán  (Honduras)
• Little Corn Island (Nicaragua)
• Isla Ometepe  (Nicaragua)
• Coiba National Park (Panama)
• Bocos del Toro  (Panama)
• Panama Canal  (Panama)
• Soberania National Park  (Panama)

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN BELIZE

1. ATM Cave

Located an hour from San Ignacio, this awesome attraction is officially known as Actun Tunichil Muknal .

Protected as part of the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, it’s an excellent adventure aimed at people who enjoy active Central America travel.

Visiting the ATM Cave requires a hike through the jungle, a swim inside the famous underground cave , then wading a half-mile up the river .

Then there’s a mile-long hike through rooms of stalactites and stalagmites, with names such as “The Cathedral.”

Eventually you’ll reach the glistening remains of ancient human sacrifices the Maya people made to their gods , as well as pottery remains that have been dated to 700-900 AD.  

READ MORE: Exploring the Ancient Xunantunich Mayan Ruins of Belize

2. Belize Barrier Reef

Second only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef extends 550+ miles, from Cancun to Honduras.

The 190-mile Belize Barrier Reef, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, comprises around 33% of it.

It’s the nation’s #1 tourist attraction and one of the best places to visit in Central America with Scuba diving and snorkeling drawing about half of Belize’s annual visitors.

Recently removed from the list of endangered UNESCO sites, the reef’s remarkable walls, pinnacles, holes, and reef flats are home to an array of cool and weird ocean animals .

This includes 70 hard coral species, 35 soft coral species, 500 species of fish, and hundreds of invertebrates.  

READ MORE: Scuba Diving the Belize Barrier Reef

3. The Cayes

With 239 miles of coastline, more than 200 islands (also known as Cayes, which is pronounced “keys”), and the aforementioned reef system, Belize is haven for those who love beaches and watersports.

The Cayes easily rank among the best Caribbean islands to visit, with stunning scenery, some best beaches in Central America, charming villages, and loads of marine life.

Ambergris Caye and its sister island, Caye Caulker, are arguably the two most popular. 

But smaller islands such as Glover’s Reef Atoll (part of a UNESCO-protected Marine Reserve), Lighthouse Reef Atoll (home to Belize’s Blue Hole), and South water Caye are better suited for nature lovers .  

READ MORE:  The 30 Best Exotic Islands to Visit (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

4. Hopkins Village

Tiny Hopkins Village is located south of Belize City near Dandriga, and it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the rich Garifuna  culture .

Most of the residents descend from people whose ancestry can be traced back to West Africa .

After making their way to the Caribbean and Central America, these “Black Caribs” intermarried with indigenous Amerindians.

Today, their culture (which can also be found in northern Guatemala) offers a mixture of African, Amerindian, and Spanish influences.

To learn more about their cultural traditions , try a Garifuna drumming lesson at the Lebeha Drumming Center.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Cultural Festivals Around the World

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN COSTA RICA

5. Arenal Volcano National Park

Costa Rica is the best Central American country to visit if you’re looking for dynamic landscapes, national parks, and wildlife.

Dominating the verdant landscape of northwestern Costa Rica , Arenal ranked among the world’s most active volcanoes until 2010.

Located near the town of La Fortuna, the volcano has been dormant for nearly a decade now.

But the national park remains a popular ecotourism hotspot thanks to natural attractions such as Lake Arenal, the La Fortuna Waterfall , and various volcano-fed hot springs (Tabacon is our favorite).

And of course the 5,480-foot mountain still looms large, like a sleeping giant waiting for the opportune moment to re-awaken.

READ MORE:  Ecotourism in Costa Rica: The Ultimate Eco Travel Guide

6. Corcovado National Park

Located on the Osa Peninsula in southern Costa Rica, Corcovado National Park is a nature-lover’s paradise National Geographic called “the most biologically intense place on earth.”

The country’s largest national park is home to 13 different ecosystems, with extensive hiking trails through highland cloud forest , lowland rain forests, mangrove swamps, and sandy beaches.

The biodiversity of its wildlife is astounding, including over 10,000 insect species, 370 bird species, and 140 mammal species (ranging from several kinds of monkeys and sloths to jaguars and  weird animals such as Baird’s tapirs).

READ MORE:  40 Amazing Costa Rica Animals

7. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Long before this reserve was established, the town of Monteverde was settled by American Quakers who moved to Costa Rica in search of a more peaceful way of life.

It was they who decided to protect the forest from development. Today Monteverde Cloud Forest ranks among Costa Rica’s best attractions, drawing 70,000+ visitors a year.

The reserve’s six different ecological zones are home to around 100 mammal species, 120 reptilian and amphibian species, 400 bird species, and more than 2,500 plant species.

It also has a Nature Center, butterfly gardens, and many hiking trails , suspension bridges , and ziplines .

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica (Resorts, Hotels & Eco-Lodges)

8. Tirimbina Biological Reserve

Though it’s not as well-known as some of the other places in Central America on this list, Tirimbina Biological Reserve offers one of the most educational ecotourism experiences in all of Costa Rica.

It’s located about 2 hours by car from San Jose in Sarapiquí, between the forests and rivers of the country’s northern region.

The reserve boasts nearly six miles of wildlife-rich hiking trails , including opportunities to trek through cacao plantations, wetlands, and secondary forests.

There are also a variety of guided tours available, including chances to learn about bats, birds , frogs, and how chocolate is made .

READ MORE:  Cano Island: Costa Rica Scuba Diving at its Finest

9. Tortuguero National Park  

If you want to visit this remote, 77,000-acre national park on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast, you’ll need to take a boat or plane, as there are no roads or cars allowed.

Tortugero boasts 11 different habitats within its boundaries: Due to the labyrinth-like network of tributaries and lagoons, it’s best to explore by boat, where the wildlife is rarely far away.

The park is best known for its beaches, which attract hundreds of green, hawksbill, leatherback, and loggerhead sea turtles during the peak nesting season.

Take a night hike with a local guide and you might have a chance to see mama turtles laying their eggs!

READ MORE:  The Ultimate Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica Travel Guide

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN GUATEMALA

10. Antigua  

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Antigua, Guatemala (whose name means “old Guatemala”) offers an exceptional array of activities for those with a passion for history and indigenous culture.

The small town of 45,000 residents has a strong Mayan presence, especially at the Antigua Street Market and Parque Central.

Fans of colonial architecture will find lots to love, from ancient Mayan ruins and the iconic Arco de Santa Catalina to gorgeous churches (Antigua Guatemala Cathedral, Iglesia de la Merced, etc).

And nature lovers will enjoy birdwatching at Finca el Pilar, touring a Guatemalan coffee farm, and/or hiking the Pacaya Volcano.  

READ MORE: Top 15 Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala

11. Lake Atitlán

One of Guatemala’s most popular tourist attractions among domestic and international travelers alike, Lake Atitlán also ranks among its most beautiful.

The lake is inside a massive volcanic crater in the southwestern highlands, surrounded by lush green hills, towering volcanic peaks, and charming villages.

The town of Panajachel is a bit crowded and congested with Chicken Buses for our tastes, but San Pedro la Laguna, San Juan la Laguna, and Santiago Atiltlán (which can be reached by boat) are all rich with Mayan art , traditional food , and music .

Activities include touring coffee plantations, exploring the Atitlán nature reserve, and savoring the spectacular sunrise and sunset over the lake.

READ MORE:  40 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Guatemala

Even if you don’t know this ancient city by name, you’ve almost certainly seen it in iconic shots in movies such as the original Star Wars and the James Bond film Moonraker .

Granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1979, Tikal was once home to more than 100,000 Mayan people, but was abandoned for unknown reasons sometime in the 9th century.

Today visitors can climb numerous canopy-piercing pyramids and explore many of the site’s structural ruins.

In between, you’ll find a jungle filled with wildlife such as howled monkeys, wild turkeys, and myriad tropical bird species.

READ MORE:  50 Fascinating Facts about Guatemalan Culture

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN HONDURAS

13. Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, this biodiverse reserve on the “Mosquito Coast” of Honduras was added to the list of World Heritage in Danger in 2011, due primarily to illegal fishing, logging, and poaching.

The country’s largest protected area (1.3 million acres) boasts tropical rainforests, mangroves, coastal lagoons, and savannahs, with wildlife that includes 39 species of mammals, 377 species of birds , and 126 species of reptiles and amphibians.

The area is also home to four indigenous cultural groups– the Miskito, Pech, Garifuna, and Ladino– as well as more than 200 pre-Columbian ancient archaeological sites .  

READ MORE: Macaw Mountain Honduras. The Park of Living Jewels

14. Roatán

Located 40 miles off the northern coast, Roatán is the largest of Honduras’ Bay Islands.

And because the island is located directly atop the Mesoamerican Reef, the snorkeling and diving here are easily among the best in the Caribbean.

Its best dive sites is Mary’s Place, which has a sheer crevasse that advanced divers can explore (or beginners can dive over) to see black coral fans, anemones, huge seahorses, and more.

Unlike many Latin American hotspots, Roatán is relatively remote and under the radar, not to mention one of the most budget-friendly destinations on this list.  

READ MORE:  40 Green Travel Tips (The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel)

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN NICARAGUA

15. Little Corn Island

Looking to truly get away from it all? Little Corn Island will be a dream come true, with lush jungle, clear water, and no cars allowed.

Unlike the Nicaraguan mainland, Little Corn has a Creole culture that is more commonly associated with Caribbean islands: Locals have a mixture of African , Indian , and Spanish roots.

Once a backpacker ’s haven, the unspoiled island has expanded its eco-luxury resorts and eco hotels in recent years.

The snorkeling and Scuba diving there is top-notch, with nurse sharks , rays, dolphins , sea turtles, and the occasional hammerhead spotted just off the island’s shores.

READ MORE:  Little Corn Island Nicaragua: A Taste of Nirvana

16. Isla Ometepe

This UNESCO-recognized island is located in Lake Nicaragua (the largest lake in Central America), and was formed by two nearby volcanoes.

The smaller one, 4,573-foot Volcan Maderas, is now dormant, but the 5,282-foot Concepción Volcano has erupted regularly for nearly 140 years.

The area’s fertile forests are home to wildlife such as white-headed capuchins and yellow-napes parrots.

There are also numerous hiking/cycling trails, waterfalls , swimming holes , canoeing / kayaking trails, fincas (or farms ), and even ancient petroglyphs to explore.  

READ MORE:  Isla Ometepe Nicaragua: An Epic Guide

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PANAMA

17. Coiba National Park  

This UNESCO-protected marine reserve located off Panama’s southern coast holds a special place in our hearts: It was the place my wife who conquered a fear of water and learned to Scuba dive .

Located near the famed Hannibal Bank, a continental shelf popular among sport fishermen, Coiba is a great place to see whales, dolphins, tuna, reef sharks, and huge schools of tropical fish.

On land you’ll find some great hiking trails, and wildlife ranging from nesting sea turtles to howler monkeys, Coiba Island agouti, white-tailed deer, and more.  

READ MORE: Coiba National Park Panama: Sharks, Crocs and Noriega Prison

18. Bocos del Toro

Located southeast border with Costa Rica, this outstanding archipelago has become a burgeoning hotspot for Panama ecotourism enthusiasts.

Its attractions are numerous, but you’ll want to start at Bastimentos Island National Park, which offers some of the country’s best snorkeling opportunities.

The Smithsonian’s Bocos del Toro Research Station offers excellent guided tours, with naturalists introducing guests to many of the area’s flora and fauna.

On Isla Colon, the privately-owned Finca los Manos botanical garden offers educational program and loads of local wildlife.  

READ MORE:  Panama Photos: Glamping, Fishing, Dolphins & Rainbows

19. Panama Canal

The #1 tourist attraction in Panama is also one of the world’s great marvels of engineering innovation.

Observation decks at the Agua Clara (on the Atlantic side) and Miraflores (Pacific) locks offer visitors awesome views of ships passing through the canal.

And both locations have excellent info about the canal’s colorful history.

Other attractions include Lake Gatun, wildlife-rich boat tours along the Chagres River (the canal’s primary water source), an indigenous Emberá village, and two UNESCO-protected Spanish forts.

One lies in ruins, but Fort San Lorenzo still stands today.  

READ MORE:  10 Latin America Ecotourist Adventures (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

20. Soberania National Park  

Located very close to Panama City (about 16 miles away) and the banks of the Panama Canal, Soberania National Park covers approximately 55,000 acres of biodiverse tropical rainforest.

In terms of wildlife, the park is home to over 100 species of mammals, nearly 80 types of reptiles , and over 50 amphibians.

But it’s best known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, with around 525 recorded species.

The park’s Pipeline Road is widely regarded as one of the best places to see tropical birds in the Americas!

Soberania also has a Rainforest Discovery Center, which offers visitors access to a treetop-clearing observation tower. –Bret Love

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Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

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Top 20 Places to Visit in Central America

by Julie | Jul 6, 2022 | Belize , Costa Rica , El Salvador , Guatemala , Honduras , Nicaragua , Panama , Travel

You’ve made the decision to travel to Central America. Now the question is where to go. What places should you add to your Central America itinerary? In this post, I’m going to share with you the top 20 places to visit in Central America for those who love culture, history, food, architecture, nature, wildlife, tropical islands, and a bit of adventure. I spent a year traveling and living in the region and these are my 20 favorite places.

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate and a Bookshop.org Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Please see this website’s  Disclosure  for more info.

Countries in Central America

There are 7 countries in Central America: Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama.

What about Mexico?

Is Mexico Part of Central America?

Some people consider Mexico as part of Central America. I decided not to include it here. If I had included it, this list would be 50 places to visit in Central America and half of them would be in Mexico. I’ll write a whole separate blog post on places to visit in Mexico.

Criteria for making a list of the best places in Central America

This list of best places to visit in Central America is based on my I spent a year traveling and living in Central America . Everyone has their own likes and dislikes. What I like might not be what you like, or maybe it is. I’m into culture, history, food, architecture, wildlife, and nature. I love beaches, small villages, as well as big cities.

If you’re into the same things I am, then I think you’ll find this list useful in planning your own trip to Central America.

1. San Ignacio, Belize

San Ignacio.

Ever heard of it?

Most people haven’t.

But I guarantee that your time here will be one of the most unforgettable experiences during your trip through Central America.

A small city near the Guatemalan border, San Ignacio makes an excellent base for exploring the many natural and historic wonders of the Cayo District of Belize. Ancient Maya ruins, beautiful pine forests, lush jungles, and mysterious caves.

The highlight of San Ignacio (and perhaps all of Central America) is the adventurous tour of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) , the Cave of the Stone Sepulchre. Better than any ride at Disneyland , the cave requires you to swim through pools of water and climb over and up rocks and past stalactites and stalagmites for an hour until you come to a huge open chamber. The ground of the chamber is covered in pottery shards and the remains of the sacrificed victims of the ancient Maya. Cool, huh?

The area is also home to 3 unique Mayan ruins : Caracol , Xunantunich , and Cahal Pech.

There are even more caves, rivers, jungles, and forests to explore, making San Ignacio one of the best places in Central America to visit.

Travel Tips for San Ignacio

• For cheap and delicious food, visit the central outdoor market
• Visit the Belize Tourism Board website for the latest entry requirements
• For detailed info on crossing the border into Guatemala, visit my detailed guide here . You can also read about how to cross the border from Guatemala to Belize here .
• You can get loads of travel tips in this San Ignacio Travel Guide

Top things to do in San Ignacio

• ATM Cave tour
• Maya ruins of Caracol , Xunantunich , and Cahal Pech
• A canoe trip through Barton Creek Cave
• For a complete list of 25 things to do in San Ignacio, check out this San Ignacio Travel Guide

Where to stay in San Ignacio

• Budget: Yellow Belly Backpackers
• Mid-range: Martha’s Guesthouse and Maya Mountain Lodge
• Upper-range: San Ignacio Resort Hotel and The Lodge at Chaa Creek

2. Caye Caulker, Belize

The idyllic island of Caye Caulker is one of those places where you originally plan to stay for two or three days but end up staying for five or six .

Why don’t people want to leave? It’s all about the super chill vibe that the island has that makes you forget all about your troubles. There are no cars or motorcycles, the sun is almost always shining, people are friendly, the food (especially, the lobster) is delicious, and the snorkeling and diving are the best in Central America.

If you’ve got time to spare on your Central America travels, then make sure not to miss Caye Caulker.

Travel Tips for Caye Caulker

• You can get to Caye Caulker in a half-day from Flores, Guatemala. Learn how in my guide to getting from Guatemala to Belize.
• Getting from Caye Caulker to San Ignacio or Guatemala is also easy. You can get step-by-step directions in my guide for crossing the border .
• Get your morning coffee and bagel at Ice N’Beans, inexpensive food at Auntie’s Takeout, local breakfast at La Cubana, and lobster at Happy Lobster.
• Visit the Belize Tourism Board website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.

Top things to do in Caye Caulker

• Do a snorkeling tour
• Scuba diving
• Fly over Blue Hole
• Do the 3-day sailing trip with Ragamuffin Tours

Where to stay in Caye Caulker

• Budget: Go Slow Guesthouse and Sophie’s Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Caye Caulker Beach Hotel
• Upper-range: Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel and Colinda Cabanas

3. Antigua, Guatemala

Hands down Antigua is my favorite place to visit in Central America . It has a bit of something for every kind of traveler: culture, history, food, nature, and adventure . You could easily stay here a week and not run out of things to do.

Antigua was the third capital of Guatemala until an earthquake destroyed the city in 1773, forcing the government and citizens to abandon it and start over in Guatemala City. Luckily for us, the remaining colonial-era buildings and ruins were not bulldozed. After reconstruction and lots of love and dedication, the city was revived.

Today Antigua is a stunningly beautiful city . Streets paved with cobblestones and lined with colorful adobe buildings. All of it is surrounded by mountains, including 3 volcanoes . One volcano, El Fuego, is still erupting every 20 minutes. At night you can sometimes see the lava flowing down the mountain.

Travel Tips for Antigua

• Antigua is pretty safe but still take a taxi or Uber if you need to walk along dark streets late at night after the bars close
• Only use ATMs inside hotels, banks, or shops. The one inside Porta Hotel Antigua allows you to withdraw more money than other ATMs, thus saving you money on fees
• Check out my list of books on Guatemala to learn more about the history and culture of the country.
• For the most up-to-date entry requirements visit the government of Guatemala’s website .

Top things to do in Antigua

• Do the overnight hike to the summit of Volcano Acatenango and El Fuego
• Take a walking tour of the historic center
• Visit the ruins of Antigua
• For a complete list of 32 things to do, visit my Antigua travel guide

Where to stay in Antigua

For a list of the best hotels and hostels, visit my guide to Where to Stay in Antigua

4. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Like Antigua, Lake Atitlan has got a bit of something for every kind of traveler : culture, history, art, nature, and adventure.

Plus, it’s just stunningly beautiful.

The lake is surrounded by hills and 3 volcanoes and the shore of the lake is dotted with villages. Each village has its own unique character.

Panajachel is the transportation hub. For getting to know the local Maya culture , visit Santiago Atitlan. San Juan is for those looking for art and handicrafts . For the best views of the volcanoes, stay in Jaibalito or Santa Cruz. San Marcos is the place to go for yoga, meditation , and holistic therapies. If you want to party all night and sleep all day, stay in San Pedro.

You can stay in one village and visit the others by boat. During the day, there are many things to do. Besides exploring the villages, you can kayak , do stand-up paddle boarding , and hike up a volcano .

Travel Tips for Lake Atitlan

• If you’re arriving by shuttle from Mexico, you’ll need to stay overnight in Panajachel as the public boats stop running before the shuttle arrives
• Ask the boat driver how much the fare is BEFORE getting on; the same route can vary in price depending on the boat operator; foreigners pay 5 times as much as locals

Top things to do in Lake Atitlan

• Study Spanish at one of the many language schools around the lake
• Visit the home of Saint Maximon in Santiago
• Hike Indian Nose to watch the sunrise
• For more things to do at Lake Atitlan, check out this complete list

Where to stay in Lake Atitlan

Budget: Hotel Utz Jay (Panajachel) or Casa Ahau (San Marcos)

Mid-range: La Casa del Mundo Hotel (Jaibalito) or Atitlan Sunset Lodge (Santa Cruz)

Upper-range: Hotel Villas Balam Ya (Panajachel) and Anzan Atitlan (San Marcos)

READ FOR MORE INFO: Guide to the Best Places to Stay at Lake Atitlan & Guide to the 50 Best Things to do at Lake Atitlan

5. Flores and Tikal, Guatemala

Every itinerary to Guatemala should include a visit to the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal . Probably one of the top 3 greatest archaeological ruins in Central America.

Tikal was one of the 2 most powerful states during the Maya Classical period. During its height of glory, the leaders built some of the most awe-inspiring temples in the Maya world . After Tikal’s collapse, the jungle covered up its temples and pyramids for centuries. It wasn’t until the nineteenth century that archaeologists began excavating and restoring them. Now they are one of the top places to visit in Central America.

Most tourists base themselves in the municipality of Flores and do Tikal as a day trip. The city is an interesting place in its own right. Situated on an island in the middle of Lake Peten Itza, Flores is connected to the mainland and its sister city of Santa Elena by a causeway.

The small island is charming but with a touch of scruffiness. There are streets of cobblestones, a promenade that rings the island, colorful buildings, some beautiful sunsets, and loads of travel agencies, hotels, and restaurants.

Tikal is not the only thing to do here. There are other ancient ruins like Uxuactun and Yaxha . Kayaking or taking a boat tour of the lake is also popular. A visit to Jorge’s Rope Swing is a fun way to spend your afternoon as well.

But for the more adventurous traveler, the piece-de-resistance is the 5-day/80-km jungle hike to El Mirador ruins and back.

Travel tips for Flores and Tikal

• An alternative to basing yourself in Flores is the lakeside village of El Remate
• Book at least 2 nights at a hotel inside the park of Tikal in order to see the ruins at sunrise and sunset
• To learn about the ancient Maya, check out my list of books on their history and culture .
• Check out my guide on how to enter Guatemala from Belize
• Visit this Flores and Tikal guide for more travel tips

Top things to do in Flores and Tikal

• Watch the sunrise at Tikal
• Go on the El Mirador hike
• Check out this jam-packed list of 20 fun things to do in Flores .

Where to stay near Tikal

• Budget: Alice’s Guesthouse (El Remate), Amina (Flores)
• Middle: Jungle Lodge Tikal Hostal (Tikal)
• Luxury: Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel (12 miles from Flores), Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal (Tikal)

MORE INFO ON FLORES & TIKAL: Guide to Best Accommodations in Flores & Tikal and Guide to Top Things to Do in Flores & Tikal

6. Chichicastenango, Guatemala

Chichicastenango is a must-stop on a trip through Central America if you’re looking to learn more about the indigenous people of Guatemala . It was the cultural highlight of my trip to Guatemala.

Situated amongst the mountains of the Guatemalan Highlands, the city is famous for its Sunday (and Thursday) markets. The Maya population from around the Highlands flock to the market to sell their wares, buy fruits, vegetables, and everyday items, and worship at the local churches.

Meanwhile, tourists come to shop for souvenirs , take in the Maya culture , photograph the colorful cemetery and vegetable market , and experience the folk religions of Guatemala .

Chichicastenango is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Central America.

Travel Tips for Chichicastenango

• Hire a guide but make sure they can speak English or your language
• Before taking a photo of a person, ask if it’s ok
• Check out my list of books on Guatemala to learn more about the history and culture of the Maya and their country.
• For more travel tips, check out my travel guide to visiting the market in Chichicastenango

Top Things to Do in Chichicastenango

• Visit Iglesia Santo Tomas
• Tour the cemetery
• For a complete list of things to do, check out my Chichicastenango travel guide .

Where to stay in Chichicastenango

Check on Airbnb for affordable places to stay or stay around Lake Atitlan and visit on a day trip.

MORE INFO ON CHICHI: Guide to Best Accommodations at Lake Atitlan and The Most Practical Guide Ever to Chichicastenango

7.  Copan, Honduras

Nestled in a stunning river valley and surrounded by hills covered in pine trees are the charming city of Copan Ruinas and the nearby ancient Maya ruins of Copan.

Many travelers to Central America wonder if the ruins are worth it?

As someone who’s visited over 20 Maya ruins in Central America, Copan is in my top 5 archaeological sites . While you’ll see magnificent temples and pyramids at Tikal and Chichen Itza, at Copan you’ll see the most beautiful works of art in the Maya world .

There is more to do and see in Copan than just old stones. There’s a fabulous bird sanctuary , natural hot springs , and horseback riding tours through the sun-flower-covered hills.

Travel Tips for Copan

• To help you understand this ancient civilization better, take a look at my books on the ancient Maya
• Getting to El Salvador here requires a few bus changes but it is easily doable on your own. You can read how I did it in my guide to crossing the border from Honduras to El Salvado r.

Top places to visit in Copan

• Copan ruins
• Learn about the Maya fertility rites at the Los Sapos ruins
• Macaw Mountain Bird Park
• Luna Jaguar Hot Springs
• Horseback riding in the mountains outside of Copan

Where to stay in Copan

• Budget: Hostal Iguana Azul (Superb!!!)
• Middle: La Casa de Cafe Bed and Breakfast
• Luxury: Casa Villamil Boutique Hotel or Hotel Marina Copan

8. Lake Yajoa, Honduras

Lake Yajoa is another one of those places in Central America where you plan to stay for 2 or 3 days and end up staying for 5 or even 7 days. It’s so relaxing and beautiful that you just don’t want to leave.

Located about 2 hours from San Pedro Sula, the lake and the surrounding area are home to a plethora of birds, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

It’s also where you’ll find one of the best hostels in Central America : D&D Brewery, a hostel/hotel that is also just like the name suggests a brewery. This will probably be the best beer you’ll drink in Central America. And the food (blueberry pancakes!) is pretty darn good too!

The highlight of Lake Yajoa is the lake itself. Take a kayak out on the lake and paddle along the marshes spotting the birds popping up and flying away.

The other draw is the waterfalls. The view is spectacular. But what’s even cooler is that you can actually walk behind the falls. One of the scariest things I’ve done in Central America.

Honduras has a reputation for being unsafe, but Lake Yajoa and the surrounding towns I found to be as safe as they get.

Definitely don’t overlook this off-the-beaten-path place in Honduras .

Travel Tips for Lake Yajoa

• For the latest info on how to get to Lake Yajoa, visit the D&D Brewery website . They have clear directions on how to get to the lake from other places in Honduras and from other countries.
• Is Honduras safe? Small towns near the Lake like Pena Blanca and Guama are pretty safe. Bigger cities like San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa are not as safe.
• Check online to see what the most up-to-date entry requirements are for Honduras .

Top things to do at Lake Yajoa

• Rent a kayak and paddle around the lake
• Visit Pulhapanzak Waterfalls
• Go hiking and/or bird watching at Parque Nacional Cerro Azul

Where to stay at Lake Yajoa

D&D Brewery has everything from dorm rooms to inexpensive private rooms for $20 as well as mid-range and luxury cabins. Book your accommodations on the D&D website .

9. Bay Islands, Honduras (Roatan or Utila)

If you’re looking for an affordable snorkeling and scuba diving destination , then the Bay Islands are the place to be. Along the coast of the islands is the world’s second-largest barrier reef teeming with some of the most diverse sea life on the planet.

There are 3 Bay Islands and 5 smaller islands. Most tourists just visit either Roatan or Utila .  

Roatan is the bigger of the two islands. It’s more developed and attracts a more diverse crowd from cruise shippers to independent budget travelers.

Roatan has better beaches than Utila. The best beach is at West Bay— a nice long white sandy beach next to crystal clear calm waters . Rent a lounge chair for the price of a drink and spend the day doing absolutely nothing. Don’t leave too soon as the sunsets in West Bay are spectacula r.

Utila is known for its whale sharks and cheap diving courses . It’s smaller and less developed than Roatan. There’s basically one town around a bay and the rest is just wilderness.

Travel tips for the Bay Islands

• There’s an ATM at the ferry terminal in La Ceiba. Get cash before heading to the islands.
• Ferries to Roatan leave twice a day at 7:00 am and 5:00 pm
• For the most up-to-date info on entry requirements for Honduras check online.

Top things to do in the Bay Islands

• Lie on the beach and do nothing
• Visit Victor’s Monkey and Sloth Sanctuary
• Do a day tour to Little French Key

Where to stay in Roatan

Budget : Roatan Backpackers Hostel or Hotel Chillies

Middle: Mr. Tucan Hotel

Luxury: Ibagari Boutique Hotel

10. Ruta de las Flores (Route of Flowers), El Salvador

Located near the border with Guatemala, Ruta de las Flores is El Salvador’s #1 tourist destination.

The Route of Flowers is a road that winds its way through the Apaneca Mountain Range. Along the route are a series of charming villages with cobblestoned streets, hills cloaked in coffee fields , volcanoes topped with craters filled of sulfur green water, waterfalls with pools to take a dip in, and hiking trails that take you to picturesque lagoons.

The three most popular villages to visit are Juayua , Apaneca , and Ataco .

With its fair share of affordable accommodations, Juayua is a popular place for backpackers. It has a lively central plaza and a popular food fair on Sundays .

Apaneca is another charming but less touristy village . It’s got the typical streets paved in cobblestoned streets, and colonial-era adobe buildings. You’ll also find a food court serving delicious local dishes, a beautiful white-washed church in the central plaza, a fun maze, hiking trails to lagoons, and a coffee plantation you can visit.

In my opinion, Ataco is the real gem . It’s a village filled with colorful murals depicting local culture , artisanal markets, colonial-era adobe buildings, trendy restaurants, and cool cafes where you can enjoy Salvadoran coffee.

Travel Tips for the Ruta de las Flores

• Spend a few days along the Route staying in either Juayua or Ataco or both.
• You can easily get around by public bus (Bus #249), but if you’re short on time, you can hire a car and driver or rent a car.
• Where are the flowers? Yeah, don’t expect them. I was there and didn’t see any even though other bloggers say that February is the month to see them.

Things to do along the Ruta de las Flores

• Fill up on some delicious local food at the weekend Food Festival in Juayua
• Experience El Salvadoran coffee with a visit to a coffee farm and one of the lovely cafes
• Check out the murals in Ataco
• Visit Ruta de las Seite Cascadas

Where to stay on the Ruta de las Flores

Budget: Hostal Dona Mercedes

Middle: Hotel Casa Pino

Luxury: Casa Degraciela Hotel Boutique

11. Santa Ana and the Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador

Santa Ana is the second largest city in El Salvador . It’s safe, smaller, and easier to get around than the capital city of San Salvador. But it’s not overly touristy so you can get a sense of the local culture. Walk around the old part of the city. Hang out in the central plaza watching the locals.

Probably the main reason for visiting Santa Ana is that it’s a great place to base yourself for exploring the best destinations in El Salvador .

The #1 thing to do while in Santa Ana is to climb Santa Ana Volcano . At the top is a beautiful crater lake.

You can also do the Ruta de las Flores from Santa Ana on a day trip.

That’s not all! There is a waterfall that’s also hot springs, a lake formed out of a volcano, and ancient Maya ruins.

Travel Tips for Santa Ana

• You can hire a car, driver, and guide to climb Santa Ana for US$20 or do it on your own with public transportation
• Explore the old part of Santa Ana. Observe the people—everyone in the city is selling something
• There is no one central bus station but instead several stations throughout the city. It’s hard then knowing where to catch your bus. If you ask several people, you’ll get multiple answers.

Top Things to Do in Santa Ana

• Hike to the top of Santa Ana Volcano
• Visit the villages of the Ruta de las Flores
• Go swimming at Salto de Malacatiupan
• Check out Lago de Coatepeque

Where to stay in Santa Ana

Budget: Hostal Casa Verde or Velvet Hostal (Superb!!!!)

Middle: Hostal Las Puertas

Luxury: Remfort Hotel

12. Ometepe, Nicaragua

Ometepe is another one of those places in Central America that are hard to leave . I planned to stay for 3 days and ended up staying 10. One of many reasons is that you get a really good deal on accommodations on the island.

Looking at the island on a map, it’s already picturesque . In person, it’s even better.

The island is in the shape of a barbell. On each end of the barbell are 2 volcanoes . Both make for rewarding albeit difficult hikes .

But if you’re not that ambitious, that’s ok too. You can just as well while away your day lying in a hammock or eating chocolate , bird watching .

The highlight of my trip to Ometepe was kayaking and wildlife spotting on the lake and the Rio Isliatan.

The other fun and adventurous thing to do is to rent a scooter or ATV and drive around the island. The roads are relatively flat, traffic is little, and roads are in good shape, making it an excellent place for first-timers to try out a scooter. 

End at least one of your days by watching one of Omotepe’s colorful sunsets .

Travel Tips for Ometepe

• The side where Merida is has nice sunsets
• There is no public transportation on Sundays, so avoid arriving on that day if you’re staying somewhere other than the port of Moyogalpa.
• Want to know how to get to Nicaragua? Visit my step-by-step guide on crossing the land border into Nicaragua.
• Get the most recent entry requirements for Nicaragua on the government website .

Top things to do in Ometepe

• Rent a scooter or ATV and drive around the island
• Kayak along Rio Isliatan
• Swim at the natural swimming hole of Ojo de Agua Ometepe

Where to stay in Ometepe

*So many good deals on accommodations on Ometepe that you’ve got a wealth of choices.

Budget: Finca Mystica (dorms) (Merida) or Rosa’s Lake Cabin (Merida) or El Pital (Balgue)

Middle: Finca Mystica  or Xalli Beach House (Altagracia)

Luxury: Ananda Guesthouse (Balgue) or Hotel San Juan Ometepe (Altagracia)

13. Granada, Nicaragua

Founded in 1524, Granada is one of the oldest cities in Central America . It is also one of my favorite. Wander around its cobblestoned streets and you’ll understand why.

Compared to Antigua, it’s less Americanized and less touristy . Yet just like Antigua, the city has got its fill of colorful colonial buildings with red-tiled roofs , hip restaurants and cafes , old baroque churches , and bustling markets.

Begin your visit to Granada by just exploring the city on foot. Get lost if you can. Hit the central market , the Plaza Mayor , and end your afternoon with a visit to the Convent and Museum of San Francisco .

If you’re not exhausted after a day of sightseeing, head out in the evening to look inside the cauldron of the active Volcano Masayo .

Set aside one day for a kayaking tour of the 365 islands that make up Isletas de Granada and another day along the trails up Volcano Mombacho .

For those who want to explore the culture and food of Nicaragua, take a chocolate workshop at the Chocolate Museum .

Finally, one of the highlights of Nicaragua is an overnight stay at one of the lakeside lodges along the shores of Laguna de Apoyo.

Granada is one of the best places in Central America for those who love culture and history.

Travel tips for Granada

• Granada has several locations where buses depart. Ask your hotel or hostel for the most up-to-date info on where your bus leaves. Locations change.
• Want to know how to get to Nicaragua ? Visit my step-by-step guide on crossing the land border into Nicaragua.

Top things to do in Granada

• Visit Volcano Masaya
• Kayak around Isletas de Granada
• Learn how to make chocolate at the Chocolate Museum
• Spend the night at Lago de Apoyo

Where to stay in Granada

Budget: Hostel de Boca en Boca or El Arca de Noe (Very Good!) or Casa Brickell

Middle: Hotel con Corazon or Hotel La Polvora

Luxury: Hotel Boutique Adela (Superb!!!!) or Casa Bubu Guesthouse

14. Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Just when you think that there are no more undeveloped tropical paradises left on this planet, you stumble upon the Corn Islands. Located on the Caribbean side of Nicaragua , the Corn Islands consist of two islands: Big Corn and Little Corn.

Big Corn is more developed but has more of a local flare. It also has the best beach in Central America .

Little Corn, on the other hand, is an undeveloped gem . There are no cars or motorcycles on the island. People travel by foot along windy pathways through the jungle. No ATMs or banks. No stress. Just a nice mellow Caribbean vibe.

A simple private bungalow right on the beach can be had for only $20 .

There’s not much to do on the Corn Islands. And that is NOT a bad thing AT ALL. Basically, you can spend your days as you would in any other island paradise: lying on the beach, reading a book in a hammock, swimming, snorkeling, and diving in its turquoise waters, or chowing down on some fresh tropical fruit and seafood .

Travel Tips for Corn Islands

• Getting there involves a flight from Managua to Big Corn and a 30-minute boat ride to Little Corn. For budget travelers, you can take a long bus ride overland to Bluefield and then a precarious and even longer boat ride to Big Corn.
• Visit the Nicaragua government website for the most up-to-date entry requirements

Top things to do on the Corn Islands

• Soaking up the sunny rays while lazing on Otto Beach
• Diving or snorkeling
• Planning for ways to never leave the island

Where to stay in the Corn Islands

Budget: Carlito’s Place (Little Corn) or Grace’s Cool Spot (Little Corn)

Middle: Oce a n View (Big Corn)

Luxury: Yemaya Reefs (Little Corn) or Little Corn Beach and Bungalow (Little Corn) or Arena Beach Hotel (Big Corn)

15. Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

If you’re looking for a place where you can easily see wildlife without hiring an expensive guide , go to Manuel Antonio. The coastal area boasts Costa Rica’s smallest but most popular park: Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio . Yes, that probably means the park is more crowded than others. But there’s a reason people come and why you should as well.

The park was the only place I was able to see 2 different types of monkeys : howler and for the first time, capuchin. The capuchins weren’t just high up in the tree either. They were right in front of me along a trail.

I also saw sloths without a guide , a task that you’ll find almost impossible to accomplish in Costa Rica.

You’ll find that you can see scarlet macaws just about anywhere around Manuel Antonio.

Travel Tips for Manuel Antonio

• Getting to the park in Manuel Antonio and the hotels and hostels along the way is a piece of cake. There’s a bus that travels the route frequently. You can download this app onto your phone. The app shows you where the buses are in real-time.
• The park limits the number of visitors coming in at one time, so you need to buy your tickets ahead of time from the park website . You also need to indicate your arrival time.
• The park is closed on Tuesdays!
• The official Costa Rica Tourism website has up-to-date info on the country’s entry requirements.

What to do in Manuel Antonio

• Visit Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio – bring your bathing suit!
• Do a mangrove and ocean paddle boarding/kayaking tour
• Go river rafting on the Rio Savegre

Where to stay in Manuel Antonio

Budget: Casa Quepos (superb!) or Hostel Plinio

Middle: Peace of Paradise or Guest House Pura Vida

Luxury: Costa Verde or Santa Juana Lodge and Nature Reserve

16. Corcovado  and Drake Bay, Costa Rica

For something more wild and undeveloped in Costa Rica, head to Drake Bay, where you’ll find the country’s most remote and I think best park , Corcovado National Park.

Getting to the Bay is half the fun (NOT) . After a bus ride to Serpia, you’ll need to take an hour-long and often very wet boat ride to Drake Bay town or wherever your lodging is. There’s no dock, so you’ll need to wade through water to get to shore. Or you can simply fly in if you have the cash.

For convenience, you can stay in the small town of Drake (also known as Agujitas). A more rugged and adventurous alternative is to stay outside of town in a lodge or hostel under the canopy of the rainforest where you’ll be greeted each morning by the howls of monkeys and in the afternoon by the squawking of macaws .

The primary reason to come to Corcovado is to spot wildlife.

This supposedly is the only place in Costa Rica where you’ll find all 4 of the country’s primates : the howler, spider, capuchin, and the endangered and very cute Central American squirrel monkey. I only saw the last three of these.

But you can very easily see another endangered animal, Baird’s tapir .

The park overall is “home to a staggering 370 species of birds, 140 species of mammals, and thousands of insect species ” ( Lonely Planet Costa Rica ).

Travel tips for Corcovado

• There are no ATMs in Drake Bay so bring cash and boat drivers do not take $100 bills .
• The boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay leaves at 4:00 pm . Arrange with your accommodations to pick you up when you arrive in Drake Bay or your lodgings

Top things to do in Corcovado

• Visit Parque Nacional Corcovado
• Go snorkeling or diving around Isla del Cano
• Take a night tour of the rainforest with The Bug  Lady

Where to stay in Corcovado

Budget: Corcovado and Drake Inn (Superb for solo traveler!!!)

Middle: Hotel Finca Maresia or Bella Vista Corcovado or Life for Life Hostel

Luxury: Drake Bay Greenleaf

17. Monteverde, Costa Rica

After traveling in sweltering Central America for a few weeks or months, arriving in Monteverde is like an ice-cold glass of water on a hot day. Located at a higher elevation, Monteverde has a more temperate climate , unlike the rest of Costa Rica and its neighbor Nicaragua. It can sometimes get downright cold in the evenings.

The weather is not the only reason to go to Monteverde, though. First, the green and lush mountains are stunningly beautiful.

Second, there’s the wildlife-filled cloud forest , an experience completely different from a rainforest that must be experienced to understand.

Third, it’s the home of one of the most beautiful birds in the world: the Quetzal . The chance to see this green, red and blue bird is an unforgettable moment.

Fourth, it’s got some of the best ziplining in the world .

Travel Tips for Monteverde

• Join a guided tour in order to spot the quetzal and wildlife in general
• If coming from Nicaragua, don’t try to get to Monteverde on the same day. Stay overnight in Liberia and then make your way to Monteverde. It takes a long time and buses are infrequent.

Top things to do in Monteverde

• Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Join a bird-watching tour at Corre Cancha Reserve
• Go ziplining

Where to stay in Monteverde

Budget: Hostel Cattleya or Hakuna Matata Guesthouse

Middle: Los Pinos Lodge and Garden or Casa Jungle Monteverde

Luxury: Koora Hotel or Chira Glamping Monteverde

18. Puerto Viejo and the Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica

Costa Rica has so many beach destinations to choose from. However, my favorite is the laid-back Caribbean Coast around Puerto Viejo. This tropical paradise is another place you find yourself lingering in longer than planned. It’s got a friendly and laid-back Caribbean vibe that is contagious.

The coast includes a series of small towns interspersed with palm-fringed crescent beaches . Starting in Cahuita and ending in Manzanillo, pick your base or two to settle down in and explore the area. You can rent a bike, take the public bus, or rent a car to get around.

Most of the beaches in the area are ideal for surfing . But Punta Uva has a pretty good beach for swimming .

But sand and sun are not all that the area has to offer the traveler. There are 2 parks filled with wildlife, Cahuita and Manzanillo . The former has the added bonus of being free (donation is expected), making it by far the cheapest park in Costa Rica.

For those who love food and wildlife, take a chocolate tour at a cacao farm at Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee. The tour goes through a jungle brimming with sloths, monkeys, frogs, and toucans .

Finally, you can visit Jaguar Rescue Center . This fabulous place rescues and rehabilitates injured animals before releasing them back into the wild. Another

Travel tips for Puerto Viejo

• Buses leave San Jose from the MEPE Bus Station and take 5 to 6 hours to get to Puerto Viejo.
• Bus schedules never seem to be accurate. They change frequently, so double and triple ask multiple people about departure times

Top things to do in Puerto Viejo

• Swim at Punta Uva Beach (the second road after the bridge is where the best beach is)
• Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center
• Take a chocolate tour with Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee
• Explore Cahuita National Park

Where to stay in Puerto Viejo

Budget: Casa Moabi (Superb!!!!) or Pagalu Hostel

Middle: Bungalows Ache Cahuita (Cahuita – Superb!!!!) or Colina Secreta

Luxury: Casa Viva Lodge or Awa Beach Boutique Hotel

19. Bocas del Toro, Panama

The most popular travel destination in Panama is the group of islands known as Bocas del Toro. Situated on the Atlantic side of the country, Bocas del Toro is actually the name of the province that includes sections of the mainland, five main islands (Isla Colon, Isla Carenero, Isla Solarte, Isla San Cristobal, and Isla Bastimentos), loads of smaller uninhabited ones, and a marine park.

The islands have that typical Caribbean laid-back vibe that travelers easily fall prey to. Bocas also has a more varied population than most other Central American islands. It’s a mix of Latinos, West Indies, Blacks, the Ngobe-Bugle, and gringos.

The main town of Isla Colon, Boca Town, is the provincial capital. This is the budget backpacker party haven . There are quieter albeit more expensive lodgings in the more secluded areas of the archipelago.

There are loads of things to do here besides lazing away your day in the sun. You’ve got the usual surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling . But there’s also a cacao farm that chocolate offers tours.

The islands are also teeming with wildlife from sloths to howler monkeys to manatees. The islands are also where turtles come to hatch their eggs on the beaches.

Travel Tips for Bocas del Toro

• You can take a bus from Panama City to Almirante and then take a ferry to the islands
• Don’t drink the water directly from the faucet in the Archipelago
• Check Panama’s official tourism website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.

Top things to do in Bocas del Toro

• Explore Isla Boca by bike or ATV
• Take a chocolate farm tour
• Visit indigenous communities
• Learn to surf

Where to stay

Budget: Bambuda Lodge (dorms – $29) or Tesoro Escondido Ecolodge Cabinas (private – $52)

Middle: Mosana Reef Garden B&B ($65) or Saigon Bay Bed and Breakfast ($75) or Bar r bra BnB Over The Sea ($75)

Luxury: Dolphin Bay Hideaway or La Loma Jungle Lodge and Chocolate Farm

20. Panama City, Panama

When you look at a photo of Panama City, you often see a skyline of sparkling skyscrapers. So, the last thing you associate the city with is history, culture, and nature. Yes, it is true that the city is Central America’s wealthiest and most cosmopolitan . However, Panama City is overflowing with travel opportunities for those who seek history, culture, great food, beaches, and wildlife.

In Casco Viejo , Panama City has one of Central America’s most fascinating historic neighborhoods . It’s filled with restored colonial buildings and cobblestoned streets, hip bars and clubs, trendy restaurants, and cafes.

Right in the city is Parque Natural Metropolitano , where you can find a remarkable range of wildlife from monkeys to sloths to white-tail deer. An hour and a half by bus is the tropical rainforest of Parque Nacional Soberania with over 500 bird species.

An hour and a half ferry ride from the city are 39 tropical islands called Archipielago de las Perlas with white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

Of course, the highlight of any trip to Panama City is the engineering marvel, the Panama Canal Zone .

Travel tips for Panama City

• The best time to visit is December to mid-March when the city gets the least amount of rain

Top things to do in Panama City

• Wander the streets of Casco Viejo
• Visit the ruins of Panama Viejo
• Explore Parque Natural Metropolitano
• Eat seafood at Mercado de Mariscos
• Spot wildlife at Parque Nacional Soberania
• Relax on one of the islands in Archipielago de las Perlas

Where to stay in Panama City

Budget: Magnolia Inn (dorms) or Bodhi Panama City (private – $34)

Middle: Nomada Container Hotel (Marbella) or The Balboa Inn

Luxury: La Concordia Boutique Hotel or American Trade Hotel

What places in Central America are missing?

I didn’t include some popular places in Central America.

Where’s San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua and El Tunco in El Salvador ?

Both of those places are surfing destinations. I visited them, but I found them boring and expensive. I don’t surf. If you don’t surf, there’s no reason to go. I like to swim, but the beaches aren’t good for swimming.

You left off La Fortuna in Costa Rica .

Yep, I did.

Leaving La Fortuna off this list of best places in Central America was a hard one.

I’ve been there. It’s very pretty,

The volcano is nice.

The parks are nice but expensive.

The waterfall is nice, but there are better ones in Central America. Plus, it’s also expensive!

The natural hot springs were cool.

I did a really cool sloth park with a guide.

In the end, I left it off because it just wasn’t that unique or special compared to other places on this list. My biggest complaint, though, is that it’s expensive and hard to get around if you don’t have a car. You need to use Uber or a taxi, but they’re often unavailable or they don’t want to pick you up.

What’s next after Central America?

After you’re trip through Central America, why not head on over to Mexico ? It’s easy to cross the border from Guatemala or Belize. You’ve got the states of Chiapas, Yucatan , and Quintana Roo right there.

If you’re in Guatemala , you can easily take a shuttle from Flores to Palenque or from Lake Atitlan to San Cristobal de las Casas .

For Belize, you can easily get to Bacala r in Quintano Roo and up to Playa del Carmen and Tulum .

From Panama, lots of travelers take a 3-day sailing trip from the San Blas Islands to Colombia .

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13 Comments

Certainly saved some for my visit to Central America!

So many GREAT places to visit in Central America! I really loved Roatan, but would love to visit more of these!

This is a fantastic list – I want to do ALL of these. The water caves and the Santa Ana volcano are my two top items.

I hadn’t thought much about Central America – I think I always thought it was South America! Thanks for the inspiration, I am adding them to my bucket list. Would 6 months be a good length to travel South and Central America?

Yes, 6 months would work for both. You won’t see it all, but you’ll see a lot of the best parts.

What a fantastic post! Central America is on my list to explore next year so this was perfect timing & really helpful for me. I want to pack now! Thank you, love all these recommendations.

I’m glad you enjoyed it. Yes, definitely go to Central America. It’s beautiful, there’s lots to see, the people are friendly, and it’s safer than you think.

So many awesome places to see in Central America. So far I have not been to any country in Central America. If I had to choose just one place from your list could be Lake Yajoa, Honduras. It looks incredible and I would love to spend some time there. Thanks for sharing!

We have only had small taste tests of countries in Central America. So it was great to get your personal input on some of the best places to visit in Central America. Belize has been on our list for some time so we would definitely look at San Ignacio and Caye Cauker for water sports. Guatemala looks far more interesting than I expected. And Honduras now means more than just Roatan! Costa Rica looks like it will take many trips to enjoy it all. Thanks for showing me more of Central American. Keeping this post!

I have traveled twice to Costa Rica but I need to add these other countries for future trips. Thanks for sharing.

I have never been to America, but I loved reading your post. I loved how you have included travel tips for each of the places.

Hola! Having visited Mexico and Guatemala, I plan to visit El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama in December this year.

Like you, I travel solo starting in 2000, had been to 59 countries. Your blog about crossing the border from El Salvador to Nicaragua and this one are interesting and very helpful for planning my upcoming trips. Keep up the good work!

Thank you so much! I’m glad that you found the blog interesting and helpful. I’ll be adding lots more posts on Central America in the coming months.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Central America

The best places to visit in Central America can vary widely based on your interests, however there are many highlights that cater to anyone who sets foot on the continent.

Love history? You’ll find yourself taking in colonial forts on the coast and mayan temples in the jungles.

Looking to relax? You’ll find the full spectrum of beaches, including both white and black sand. The continent is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

Crave adventure? There is no shortage of hiking, white water rafting and kayaking adventures to be had.

Looking for wildlife? Central America is one of the best bird watching destinations in the world. Combine that with unique jungle dwelling animals, like sloths, and you’ll never be bored.

No matter how you choose to spend your time in Central America, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you entertained.

Be sure to check out our Ultimate Central America Guide

Best Places to Visit in Central America

Table of Contents

1. Visit the Guatemalan Ruins of Tikal

Central America travel itineraries can’t miss out on the opportunity to explore great Mayan archaeological sites; one of the best in the region can be found in Guatemala.

The ruins of Tikal are incredibly well-preserved but surrounded by jungle. Located in the far north, this is a place for history-loving adventurers.

Our favorite tours that includes Tikal in Guatemala:

• Classic Belize & Tikal – 9 Days – From Belize City to Caye Caulker
• Mayan Encounter – 12 Days – From Antigua to Playa del Carmen
• Maya Adventure – 22 Days – Start and end in Antigua

2. Enjoy Lake Atitlan

Guatemala has started to make a name for itself in backpacking circles. One of your firm destinations in any Central America itinerary should be Lake Atitlan.

This high altitude lake is surrounded by volcanic peaks and makes for the perfect escape from the rest of the world.

You can spend your days practicing yoga or hiking from one small village to the next, or you can party your nights away at the backpacker hostels and bars – there’s something for everyone.

Our favorite tours that include Lake Atitlan in Guatemala:

• Guatemala Express – 5 Days – Start and end in Guatemala City
• Mayan Sun Southbound: Boat Rides & Ruins – 16 Days – From Playa del Carmen to Antigua
• Central American Journey – 32 Days – Playa del Carmen to San José

3. Dive the Great Blue Hole of Belize

Belize has emerged as one of the foremost diving and snorkeling destinations in Central America. The English-speaking country is quite different from the rest of the Spanish-influenced region.

One of Belize’s most astounding off-shore attractions is the Great Blue Hole, a huge circular reef that drops hundreds of meters to the ocean floor far below.

It’s brimming with marine life and is the perfect destination for snorkeling and diving.

Our favorite tours that include visiting the Great Blue Hole in Belize:

• Mayan Discovery – 15 Days – Start and end Playa del Carmen

4. Explore El Salvador’s Ruta de las Flores

El Salvador often gets ignored on most Central America travel itineraries, which is a shame, because the country has so much to offer – from Mayan ruins to beautiful beaches.

One of the best destinations is the Ruta de las Flores, a collection of rural villages in the north that are home to local coffee plantations, great food festivals, and lots of wonderful nature.

Our favorite tours that include visiting El Salvador:

• El Salvador combo City and Beach – 5 Days – Start and end in San Salvador
• Best of El Salvador – 8 Days – San Salvador to Playa El Tunco
• Highlights of El Salvador – 11 Days – San Salvador to La Libertad

5. Scuba Dive Roatan

Off the coast of Honduras, you can find Roatan , a beautiful Caribbean island known for its diving.

Roatan is one of the cheapest destinations in the world to learn how to scuba dive (here, and the nearby island of Utila).

Our favorite tours that includes Roatan, Honduras:

• Honduras Highlights – 6 Days – Start and end in San Pedro Sula
• Volcano Trail: Waves & Local Ways – 17 Days – From Antigua to San Jose
• Antigua San Jose Panama ways – 23 Days – From Antigua to Panama City

6. Go Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is becoming a popular adventure sports destination; one of the best things you can do here is volcano boarding.

At the Cerro Negro Volcano, you can surf your way down the black sands in style!

Our favorite tours that include Cerro Negro Volcano, Nicaragua:

• Adrenaline Nica – 5 Days – Start and end in Managua
• Nicaragua – The Land of Lakes & Volcanoes – 14 Days – From Managua to San Juan Del Sur

7. Corn Islands

If you’re looking to get off the beaten track when you travel to Central America, make the long, arduous journey to the Corn Islands.

Located off Nicaragua’s remote Mosquito Coast, these untouched islands are home to some of the world’s best scuba diving – but nobody knows about it yet!

Our favorite tours that includes visiting Nicaragua:

• Colonial Tour Nicaragua – 4 Days – Start and end in Managua
• GIVE – SCUBA: Reef Conservation – 12 Days – From Managua to Little Corn Island
• GIVE – Nicaragua Local Experience – 13 Days – From Jiquilillo to Managua

8. Lose Yourself in Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest

Costa Rica is packed full of great natural sights and attractions, but if you only have time for one adventure, head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

This rainforest area is connected by swinging bridges high in the trees, where you’ll be immersed in the beautiful clouds that sit high in the foliage.

Our favorite tours that include the Monteverde Cloud Forest:

• Costa Rica Quest – 9 Days – Start and end San José
• Costa Rica Adventure – 16 Days – Start and end San José

9. Cruise the Panama Canal

A classic Central American stop is the Panama Canal, the famous waterway that connects the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean.

You can see this amazing engineering feat outside Panama City, or you can sign up for a cruise along the canal as a day trip.

The best way to see it, however, is to book a Central America cruise that transits the entire canal from the Caribbean to the Pacific.

Our favorite tours that includes the Panama Canal:

• Best of Panama – 8 Days – Start and end Panama City
• Start Panama End Panama – 13 Days – Start and end in Panama City

10. Island Hop Panama’s Bocas del Toro

One of the best places to visit in Central America, Panama’s Bocas del Toro is an archipelago packed full of white sand beaches, remote islands, and plenty of laid back tropical vibes.

You can snorkel and dive or just watch the waves lap against the sands as you sip cocktails on the shorefront.

11. Experience Island Time in Caye Caulker

It’s all about island time when you visit  Caye Caulker, Belize . There are some yummy local restaurants, white sand beaches and some fantastic snorkeling to be had here.

People come to this small island off the coast of Belize to slow down, but also take advantage of the close proximity of the Great Mayan Barrier Reef. It is one of the best places to access the Hol Chan Marine Park from.

12. Take On the Ring of Fire in Guatemala

Embark on a trek that conquers the 7 major volcano summits in Guatemala dubbed the ring of Fire that make up the Western Backbone of the country.

This is one of the world’s  Top 100 Travel Adventures , so it’s not for the light of heart.

13. Experience the Pacuare River in Costa Rica

Some of the best white water rafting in the world takes place on the Pacuare River in Costa Rica.

The best part of the river is rafted on a minimum 2 day/1 night trip that puts you up in a rustic jungle lodge for the night.

It is also possible to extend the stay in the jungle for any number of nights too. The river is best rafted when it is producing class III rapids.

14. Get Off the Beaten Path in Golfo Dulce

Located in Costa Rica, you’ll have to put in some work and planning to reach Golfo Dulce, as it’s quite off the beaten path, but you won’t regret it.

Not only is there spectacular bird watching here but you’ll also enjoy the company of dolphins when you’re on the water.

While it is possible to travel over land to Golfo Dulce, it is best experienced by booking a small ship Costa Rica cruise that includes it in their itinerary.

15. Visit Coiba National Park

Located in Panama, Coiba National Park offers so much beauty that even the Costa Ricans are jealous of it (true story!).

This park is the definition of pristine, featuring both mainland and island preserves to enjoy. For a day of sun and snorkeling, you’ll want to head to Granito de Oro.

16. Head for the Darien Gap

Easily one of the most notorious stretches of land on the planet, the Darien Gap is not a place for the faint of heart.

It serves as the most northern tip of the Amazon Rainforest and has played host to some of the most dangerous drug cartels in the world.

That aside, its pristine primary rainforest that is begging to be explored. One of the highlights from our visit was meeting the Embera Tribe and learning about their culture.

The best way to visit the Darien Gap is by joining a Panama cruise that includes a visit in their itinerary. It is also possible to visit by land, but operators are few and you need to accept rustic accommodation.

17. Visit the Portobelo Forts

As with most of Central and South America, Panama has a strong Spanish colonial history. This means you can find ruins and remnants dotted throughout the country.

Portobelo is no exception, offering one of the best-preserved forts in Central America. You can expect to see walls and buildings constructed from coral and plenty of canons.

Following the colonial history up and down the coast is one of the best things to do in Panama .

You Might Also Enjoy:

• 18 Best Places to Visit in Mexico
• Caribbean Islands Travel Guide
• South America Travel Guide
• 25 Bucket List Things to Do in Cuba

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

1 thought on “17 Best Places to Visit in Central America”

Okay so this list is a TREASURE. I literally just sent it to myself. I’ll be arriving to Guatemala with a friend mid-September and will stay there together till mid-October when she returns home to Argentina. But I remain free as a bird (carrying my job with me) to move around Central America indefinitely. Was thinking about going straight to Costa Rica cause a friend of mine lives there but you’ve just opened my eyes to take advantage of my being there for once! If my economy support me I swear I’ll try to visit every place on this list. THANK YOU

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The Best Places to Go in Central & South America in 2024

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

For a region so marked by its ancient cultures—the Mayans, the Olmecs, the Aztecs, the Incas, the Moche, the Wari, spanning 5,000 years of human history—it’s a real shift of perspective to look at a map, considering places to go in Central and South America, tilt your head, and ask: “So—what’s new?”

After all, superlatives are usually part of the draw in these parts. The oldest known civilization in the Americas flourished around 3,000 BC in Caral, Peru, with today’s travelers regularly driving three hours from Lima to walk its grounds. Tikal, the Mayan citadel in Guatemala, is described by UNESCO as “one of the most important archaeological complexes left by the Maya civilization,” and cars, buses, and helicopters bring visitors to it daily.

Yet around these gobsmacking, still-standing vestiges of cultures past, there is so much newness. There are museums of a staggering scale, like the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP)— Brazil ’s first modern art museum when it opened in 1947—that’s soon to become even bigger with a 14-story extension; just blocks away, a brand-new Soho House will be the club’s first outpost in South America . On the Magdalena River in Colombia , the charming city of Mompox (founded in 1540) that Gabriel García Márquez anointed in his novel The General in his Labyrinth, will become more accessible than ever thanks to new river cruises aboard the glossy AmaWaterways. (Expect to hear more brands hitting these waters in years to come.) As for Tikal, in Guatemala? It’ll be easier to reach in 2024 thanks to new direct flights from the US to Guatemala City (where you’ll want to stop to try food from the country’s rising chefs). There’s also glamping , ritzy resorts , and the makings of a few epic road trips .

These are the best places to go in Central and South America in 2024—where new meets the very, very old. — Megan Spurrell

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Chacarita in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Go for: cool wine bars, seasonally driven restaurants, and celebrated cocktail spots

At Sofá in Buenos Aires, up-and-coming bartender Agostina Elena makes expert cocktails in a moody space.

Small plates and late-night dancing round out the ambience at Sofá, emblematic of the casual-cool spots that have made Chacarita so popular.

Buenos Aires has long banked on grass-fed beef to propel its food scene, but that’s hardly all that’s on the menu these days—and Michelin’s first guide to Argentina , unveiled in November 2023, is proof. Porteños embrace a spontaneous approach to eating and drinking, and the Chacarita neighborhood—right near ever-cool Palermo—is the Argentine capital’s current casual-dining darling with a diverse collection of recently opened spots.

Wine bars are all the rage: At Naranjo , enjoy higher-welfare porchetta and skin-contact vintages under the orange tree for which it’s named; Anchoíta Cava’ s wine, cheese, and charcuterie lists are notable, while small plates, such as cacio e pepe, and a generous pick-your-own bottle selection are paired with charming floral arrangements at Lardito . Southeast Asian tapas such as chicken pao are on the menu at Apu Nena , while dishes are for sharing at Picaron and Condarco : When they appear on the changing menus, order the razor clams in salsa verde at the former and griddled oyster mushrooms at the latter. The 25-year-old chef, Nicolas Tykocki, at the opened-this-year Ácido , meanwhile, intrigues diners by making a daily off-menu dish. Chacarita’s drinks scene, spearheaded by vermouth specialist La Fuerza , also punches above its weight: Whiskey aficionados can sip from 110-plus cask-aged malts to a vinyl soundtrack at Sede ; find signature beverages from bartending legend Mona Gallosi at Punto Mona ; and try up-and-coming Agostina Elena’s cocktails at just-opened Sofá . If you’re traveling to eat and drink in the year ahead, Chacarita should be your first stop. — Sorrel Moseley-Williams

Colca Canyon, Peru

Go for: a stylish new tented camp, epic hiking, and unforgettable landscapes

In Peru's dramatic Colca Canyon, trekking and horsebacking riding are popular ways to traverse the epic Andean landscape.

Peru now has its first tented camp thanks to Puqio, with stylish interiors and elevated dining and excursions included in every stay.

Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon , Colca is a dramatic gash in Southern Peru where Inca-built agricultural terraces line the hillsides, and shadows of Andean condors—with all nine feet of their wingspans—ripple across the landscape. It’s long been worth the journey required to reach this hiking destination, which is about three hours by car from the colonial city of Arequipa (itself a 90-minute flight from Lima or Cusco). But with Peru’s first-ever tented camp, open as of September 2023, the Colca Canyon is set to climb even higher on visitors’ bucket lists.

Puqio—from the same team behind chic Cirqa in Arequipa, boutique Atemporal in Lima, and the lakeside lodge of Titilaka on Lake Titicaca—has all the makings of another destination-worthy stay. Safari-style tents and adobe huts are on offer, with all meals and drinks included—expect local dishes cooked in clay ovens, or over an open flame, and the zing of pisco in cocktails. Outdoor bath tubs and wood-burning stoves make it tempting to turn in early, but Puqio-organized excursions will keep you busy, whether you’re looking to learn from Andean herbalists, go horseback riding, embark on sweat-inducing treks, or dip into natural hot springs. It’s much of what already draws travelers to Colca, wrapped in a bow—go while it’s still easy to nab one of only eight accommodations available. — Megan Spurrell

Go for: new cruises leading to ancient ruins, and a burst of artsy openings

From the capital city to Antigua, new art, cultural, and community spaces beg travelers to venture beyond Mayan ruins like Tikal—and stay awhile.

Luna Zorro Studio, which sells artisan textiles, will open a boutique with a two-bedroom casita for rent in October 2024, in Antigua.

When National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions launch their new Belize to Tikal itinerary in January 2024, travelers may be tempted to tack on a few days ashore Belize’s white-sand beaches and palm-dotted islands. But Guatemala , home to the jungle-shrouded Mayan ruins of Tikal, is the extension not to skip. The country’s mix of rich Indigenous and colonial history, staggering natural beauty, and now expanding infrastructure for tourism in the form of restaurants, hotels, and tours makes 2024 the year to explore Guatemala in earnest. In the charming city of Antigua, the world class MUNAG (National Museum of Art Guatemala) , which covers 3,000 years of heritage through a contemporary lens, is now open, and a second-phase unveiling is expected imminently. Nearby, the team behind Luna Zorro studio —known for merging traditional craftsmanship with modern textile design and crafting boutique trips throughout Guatemala in collaboration with El Camino Travel —is renovating a historic property into La Valiente: It will house a Luna Zorro boutique and a coffee-and-wine bar in the front, with a two-bedroom casita for rent in the back, all set to open in October 2024. Café No Sé , meanwhile, an anchor of the old city that’s touted as the first mezcal bar outside of Mexico , will continue to honor “20-ish” years of being in business with events and live music. A flush of new art spaces, like Aura Galerías , and innovative restaurants continue to characterize the capital of Guatemala City.

Air carriers have taken notice of the increasing interest in this destination—in December 2023, Alaska will begin daily service from Los Angeles to Guatemala City, marking a new year-round route for the airline. Delta is bumping up access to Latin America in general and upping the frequency of winter flights from its Atlanta hub to Guatemala. — Ali Wunderman

Inhotim, Brazil

Go for: the chance to finally spend the night within the renowned open-air art museum

Inhotim has long been a jewel in the crown for art-loving travelers. In 2024, new bungalows on-site will make it possible to sleep among the masterpieces.

Nestled within Brazil’s Atlantic Forest , Inhotim is Latin America’s largest open-air art museum—and one that begs for slow, thoughtful exploration. Here, one of the most diverse collections of contemporary art in the world, with pieces ranging from large-scale sculptures to paintings and photographs, stretches over thousands of acres of botanical gardens. An art center of this magnitude begs for a multi-day visit, yet the lack of nearby accommodation has long made that difficult. This will all change next year.

Come September 2024, there will be 45 bungalows on-site, the first phase of a project spearheaded by Clara Resorts , a São Paulo–based hotel group focused on sustainable luxury. Each night, hotel guests will be able to retreat to luxurious rooms outfitted with balconies, fireplaces, and soapstone bath tubs; amenities like a 25-meter heated pool, sauna, massage room, gym, and events space are also planned. Plus, there will be a food hall with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. In an effort to create a welcoming and comfortable space for families, each bungalow will accommodate four to five people—and, once the bungalows are complete, 60 additional rooms and a spa will follow, and a larger resort with at least 150 rooms is expected to open by 2029.

The project will incorporate designs by architect Freusa Zechmeister, a native of the state of Minas Gerais, and overflow with stones from the state—nodding to the area’s prosperous mining history and inviting visitors to explore Brazil’s most destination-worthy museum, less than a two-hour drive from the city of Belo Horizonte. — Carla Vianna

Magdalena River, Colombia

Go for: scenic river cruises with a big hit of culture

Colombia's Magdalena River and the historic towns that line it are about to become more accessible than ever, thanks to new cruise itineraries coming via river sailing experts AmaWaterways.

Immortalized in Gabriel García Márquez’s classic Love in the Time of Cholera, the Magdalena River is Colombia’s largest and most important waterway. Running 930 miles from the snowcapped Andes through fertile valleys and into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean , it's the economic and cultural heart of the country. However, for many travelers, the mighty Magdalena has been off the radar.

But courtesy of luxe river-cruise company AmaWaterways , two different ships will kick off voyages in the future: AmaMagdalena , in November 2024, and AmaMelodia , in January 2025. Both ships will sail the Magic of Colombia itinerary, from Barranquilla to Cartagena , and the Wonders of Colombia itinerary, from Cartagena to Barranquilla—each taking passengers upriver to the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox , founded in 1540, where riverfront plazas and ornate churches await in this lost-in-time pueblo magico.

Along the way, the three-story ships, which come with rooftop sun decks and balconies, stop for birdwatching and hiking. What really sets this river sailing apart from those in the Amazon River , though, is its focus on culture: From musical explorations in the town of Palenque , the first “free” town founded by formerly enslaved people in the Americas, to jazz concerts in Mompox and a special Colombian Carnaval celebration in Barranquilla, this is a journey into the exuberant heart of Colombian life.

Fly via Cartagena, with its world-class beaches, dining, and nightlife—not to mention the new Casa Pestagua hotel , situated in a lavishly restored 17th-century palace—for a soft landing before or after the cruise. There are a number of existing nonstop flights from the US, including an increase in weekly flights from Atlanta via Delta as of October 2023. — Ocean Malandra

Panama City, Panama

Go for: a buzzy old quarter with new boutique hotels, and easy access to beaches and jungle

With new restaurants and boutique hotels in the UNESCO-designated Casco Viejo neighborhood, and bucket-list cruises offering multi-day itineraries via the port, Panama City is no longer just a stopover.

Once a mere stopover destination, Panama City is giving us new reasons to stay awhile. Go beyond the eponymous canal—arguably the most significant trade route of all time—to a city punctuated with mind-bending skyscrapers (like the F&F Tower), uniquely steeped in both American influence and Central American culture, and wrapped around its own rainforest (the 573-acre Metropolitan Natural Park ).

In the old quarter, UNESCO-designated Casco Viejo, the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama opened last year in a former social club founded in 1917. Breeze through its immaculate French-colonial-inspired lobby with fringed palms and tiled floors to Arcano, a speakeasy with tarot card readings and aged Panamanian rum. The new Kaandela restaurant, inside the adults-only Amarla boutique hotel, opened in 2022 and showcases open-fire cooking just behind the bar. Fan out from the old quarter on Truly Panama ’s new epicurean Flavors of Panama tour to score chicheme (a traditional, creamy spiced drink), ceviche at the fish market, tropical fruit at stands in sprawling Park Omar, and lunch at Afro-Panamanian La Tapa del Coco . Further north along the coast, stay at the sprawling Santa Maria, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort , for a round at its 72-par Jack Nicklaus golf course, backed by the Panama City skyline—or time your visit for January to catch the first-ever 2024 Latin American Amateur Golf Championships .

The city remains a perfect launching point for wide-ranging Panamanian adventures, too. Dive deep into nature with a quick flight to the rarely explored Gulf of Chiriqúi, plotting a new nighttime jungle hike and mod beachfront bungalow stay at Isla Palenque . Or stop over on a cruise that lands you at port at the new Fuerte Amador cruise terminal, with ideal access to the Panama Canal. Following a new multimillion-dollar refurbishment, the Crystal Serenity offers glam suites with Italian marble and custom-made Jesurum 1870 linens and will stop in this tropical metropolis on 2024’s World Cruise. — Nina Kokotas Hahn

Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica

Go for: glitzy resort openings from beloved brands

Villa Eram is one of several shiny new stays on Costa Rica's Papagayo Peninsula, where surf, sea, wellness, and high design collide.

You wouldn’t be alone in thinking Costa Rica was all barefoot backpackers, surf seekers, and adrenaline-fueled adventurers. But on a tiny Pacific peninsula in Guanacaste, beach lovers with deeper pockets can find sleek resorts from beloved hospitality brands like Four Seasons , Andaz , Hyatt-owned Secrets , and Marriott’s El Mangroove, Autograph Collection . This all-star resort destination will get even better in 2024 when it welcomes Nekajui , a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: an ultra-lavish playground with 107 rooms and 36 private residences overlooking Pochote’s horseshoe-shaped bay. Nekajui , which means “garden” in Chorotega (one of the region’s native languages), nods to the open-air experiences, from a showstopping infinity pool and a beach club reachable by funicular to a treehouse spa accessed via suspension bridge. Plus, the beloved, 20-year-old Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo just completed a major renovation as of November 1. There’s now a Mediterranean-inspired beach club on Playa Virador, improved sustainability on the 18-hole Arnold Palmer–designed golf course, and new wellness offerings for those seeking out Costa Rica’s Blue Zone benefits. With the much-anticipated arrival of Waldorf Astoria Residences Guanacaste on the other side of Culebra Bay coming in 2025, consider this your chance to get in on the exclusive enclave’s five-star service and unparalleled privacy while making the most of the Liberia airport’s new purpose-built terminal for private jets and Peninsula Papagayo’s 180-berth private marina, which can accommodate yachts up to 250 feet. Short-term renters can register their interest with Martha Dayton Design and U+B Architecture & Design’s latest project, Villa Eram , a biophilic retreat (opened in 2022) inspired by the rainforest, while brand loyalists should keep their eyes peeled: It’s rumored that Six Senses, One & Only, and Rosewood are all in talks with developers here too. — Anna Prendergast

Patagonia Azul, Argentina

Go for: seafaring excursions, wildlife sightings, and new eco-stays

The Patagonian steppe meets the Atlantic coast in the protected area of Patagonia Azul. Glamp by the sea—or stay in new oceanfront huts, open for the 2023-2024 austral summer—then boat, scuba dive, or whale watch with local tour operator Viento Azul.

Despite the challenges of taming Argentina’s vast and unmeasurable region of Patagonia , Fundación Rewilding’s Patagonia Azul Project park conservation effort has scaled up over the past two years with several gateways for visitors. And the adventures are rich: Navigations to Islas Blancas and the abandoned Isla Leones lighthouse with local tour operator Viento Azul , for example, put you in the company of petrels, cormorants, and Commerson’s dolphins as well as four species of whale—you can go even deeper into the blue with snorkeling and diving in Camarones. When calm, the Bustamante Bay’s waters are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddling, while surfers come to Cabo Raso for the testing tubes.

Flights to Patagonia Azul arrive via the El Tehuelche Airport in Puerto Madryn or Trelew International Airport in the north and Comodoro Rivadavia in the south, then it’s a drive to the entry point of your choice. Plan on three hours to reach the portal near Camarones, where hardy travelers can bed down for free with no previous reservations a stone’s throw from the Argentine Sea’s winds and waves at the 10-spot Cañadón del Sauce and nine-spot Bahía Arredondo (the latter houses a simple kitchen and dining room for use). For those seeking greater creature comforts, Portal Isla Leones will assemble six new ocean-front huts in mid-December for the Southern Hemisphere's 2023–2024 summer. At Bahía Bustamante, an hour’s drive from Camarones, the eponymous eco lodge has also just opened four new marine lofts in addition to eleven existing cabins not far from a 100,000-strong colony of Magellanic penguins. — Sorrel Moseley-Williams

Quito, Ecuador

Go for: a city on the rise

Quito is catching up to culinary neighbor Lima with spots like Nuema, where award-winning chef and co-owner Pia Salazar blends sweet and savory ingredients.

Opposites also attract in the heart of Quito. Modern architecture lives alongside a UNESCO-anointed colonial center—in late 2023, an all-new metro will better connect the city's various parts.

Quito is finally getting its due. The city’s mile-high skyline got a lot higher thanks to the work of architects like Bjarke Ingels Group, whose 32-story IQON tower (completed in 2022) is now the city’s tallest. It's just one of several projects to come from Ecuadorian development firm Uribe Schwarzkopf , in its ongoing effort to mature the ancient Andean city into an unlikely new hub of contemporary architecture. That’s no small feat considering that Quito stands atop both the ruins of a pre-Columbian settlement and an earthquake-prone high plateau and is anchored by an untouchable colonial center with UNESCO status. But a new generation of Ecuadorian and international creatives are pushing the city toward the future—and not just for the sake of visitors.

Moving things along in that direction, an all-new metro system will be inaugurated in late 2023, with 15 stations spanning from Quitumbe in the southern part of the city to El Labrador in the north. New hotels have been slower to arrive, but one standout is the affordable 151-room Go Quito Hotel , which opened in June 2023 with a rooftop bar-restaurant, spa, sauna, pool, and airy rooms offering unbeatable views of the city. Meanwhile, Quito’s dining scene is finally catching up to culinary neighbor Lima . Buzzy new restaurants include Cardó , where Chef Adrián Escardó makes octopus bacon and suckling pig with naranjilla sauce; Aura , which leans into native Ecuadorian ingredients like Mashua honey and Manaba cheese from the coast; and Nuema , where chef and co-owner Pia Salazar’s sweet-salty hybrid desserts—think pastries with leek with lemon verbena and tonka bean, and white seaweed with black garlic—won her World’s Best Pastry Chef 2022, a first for Quito and Ecuador, and 2023. — Adam H. Graham

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

Go for: stargazing, a luxe stay, and a super bloom in a new national park

The beloved Habitas brand laid roots in northern Chile in 2023, with a boutique hotel that complements the dramatic desert surrounds.

San Pedro de Atacama is known for its geographical wonders, from snowcapped volcanic mountains, to shimmering lakes with flamingos.

With its bronzed, dusty roadways and handcrafted adobe dwellings, Chile’s oldest village has captivated adventurous visitors for decades. But now, the soulful oasis of San Pedro de Atacama is securing the spotlight as Chile’s northern star, with a variety of travelers eager to experience its rugged-chic vibe. After all, this celestial city is a hotbed of geographical wonders, with snowcapped volcanic mountains in the world’s driest nonpolar region, high-altitude lagoons dotting the Andean desert, and dazzling salt flats.

Wildlife lovers flock to Los Flamencos National Reserve for up-close encounters with the world’s rarest flamingos and native vicuñas. And the surreal, dramatic scenery of the steaming El Tatio Geysers at sunrise can only be rivaled by the fiery palette of the Valle de Catarpe canyons at dusk. In 2024, El Niño is likely to spark an extraordinary Atacama superbloom inside Chile’s new national park, Desierto Florido .

Under the clearest skies on the planet, backyard astronomers can explore the cosmos on ethereal stargazing tours . The ALMA Observatory , poised at an atmosphere-topping 16,000 feet, promises expert-led interstellar experiences. But the most otherworldly excursion might be traversing the Valle de la Luna's inhospitable yet magically serene moonscape environment. Earthly travelers can seek solace in the area’s newest luxe property, Habitas Atacama . Opened in September 2023, the elite outdoorsy design guarantees a memorable stay before you jet off to glimpse Easter Island’s annular solar eclipse in October. — Colleen Kelly

São Paulo, Brazil

Go for: major openings for art lovers and jetsetting socialites

The Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP) will massively expand in 2024, with a second building—making this an exciting year for culture vultures to fly South.

Just a few blocks from MASP, Cidade Matarazzo is a massive redevelopment project focused on showcasing Brazilian culture—Soho House São Paulo will open there in 2024.

Home to more than 12 million people, São Paulo is one of Latin America’s most diverse metropolises—the New York City of the Southern Hemisphere, if you will. In 2024, travelers have even more compelling reasons to visit, starting with the long-anticipated expansion of Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP). Connected via underpass to MASP’s original Lina Bo Bardi–designed modernist building, the 14-story LEED-certified addition will house five exhibition galleries, two multipurpose spaces, a restaurant, a shop, classrooms, and a restoration lab. Nearby Cidade Matarazzo , one of São Paulo’s biggest and most ambitious redevelopment projects, is busy transforming a warren of 20th-century buildings into an arts center, a retail village, restaurants, and a green space. Its anchor tenant, the 160-room Rosewood São Paulo hotel, opened in 2022 and features Philippe Starck interiors and 450 site-specific works by 57 Brazilian artists. Also coming to Cidade Matarazzo in 2024 is Soho House São Paulo , the club’s first foray into South America. Once complete, the 36-bedroom property will include a rooftop pool, a spa, a gym, members-only dining spaces, and interiors showcasing Brazilian designers. It’s a good thing reaching São Paulo just got easier, thanks to new direct flights from Los Angeles and London via Delta-LATAM and Virgin Atlantic , respectively. — Ashlea Halpern

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Best places to visit in central and south america in 2023-2024.

From misty rainforests to mountainous national parks to cities brimming with culture, both Central America and South America boast a variety of destinations that appeal to all types of travelers. Because of this, choosing just one vacation spot from all of the excellent options available can seem daunting. To help, U.S. News ranked the top places to visit in both regions based on factors like scenery, culture, dining and attractions, as well as traveler votes and expert opinions. Do you have a favorite destination in these regions? Vote below to help us determine the best places to visit in Central and South America. (Note: Some of the below destinations may have travel advisories in place due to civil unrest or crime. Check with the U.S. Department of State before traveling.)

Argentine Patagonia

Chilean patagonia, galapagos islands, torres del paine national park, easter island, rio de janeiro, buenos aires.

Argentine Patagonia is a treat for all travelers, not just those with a penchant for adventure. From its diverse wildlife (such as Magellanic penguins, Andean cats and southern elephant seals) to its majestic Andes Mountains and jaw-dropping glaciers, this region showcases Mother Nature at its best. Even the most amateur of photographers will appreciate the palette of incredible colors on display here. Can't-miss places for first-timers include the Argentine Lake District, Mount Fitz Roy and the Perito Moreno Glacier, which sits 50 miles west of the gateway town of El Calafate.

Chilean Patagonia offers some of South America's most incredible landscapes . The Tierra del Fuego archipelago is a must-visit destination here. These islands are home to storied sites like Cape Horn – the southernmost tip of South America that requires years of experience to expertly sail around – as well as the capital of Porvenir, a small settlement known for its charming Victorian houses and picturesque surroundings. Travelers can also visit the penguin-filled Isla Magdalena, catch a glimpse of humpback whales feeding at Francisco Coloane Marine Park or trek through Torres del Paine National Park, a place so prominent it earned its own spot on this ranking.  

The Galápagos Islands are best known for their colorful creatures, ranging from giant tortoises to blue-footed boobies to penguins. The islands are also famous for helping Charles Darwin develop his theory of natural selection. Today, animals still reign supreme (of the more than 120 islands, islets and rocks that comprise the Galápagos archipelago, only four are inhabited by humans). Getting here will cost you, as the remote islands sit about 600 miles off of the coast of Ecuador. Save up for a luxurious small ship cruise to make the journey almost as memorable as the destination.

Reaching this remote national park in Chilean Patagonia isn't easy, but beholding the ice fields of Grey Glacier and the soaring peaks of the Cuernos del Paine are more than worth the trip. And with 448,000-plus acres of diverse land to explore, visitors will find boredom near impossible in this once-in-a-lifetime destination. Some of Torres del Paine's most popular trails include the challenging W Trek (a multiday feat past stunning lakes, mountains and glaciers) and the easier Mirador Las Torres hike. Before venturing into the wild, be sure to stock up on essentials in a nearby city like Puerto Natales.

Costa Rica is a natural wonderland. The tropical country features volcanoes to hike and lush rainforests to traverse on foot or by zip line. Plus, it boasts a refreshingly laid-back culture. Relaxation seekers can immerse themselves in the "pura vida" lifestyle and bask at the beaches in Guanacaste or along the Nicoya Peninsula's roughly 80 miles of coast. No visit would be complete without walking around historic San José and trying traditional delicacies like picadillo de chicasquil, a hash-like dish made with tree spinach. And to indulge on your vacation, consider staying at one of Costa Rica's all-inclusive resorts .

A bucket list destination for travelers all over the world, this remote island (a Chilean territory) sits more than 2,000 miles off of the coast of Chile and enchants adventurers with its distinctive moai statues. These curious, well-preserved stone statues can be found throughout the island, but to ensure you don't miss the island's must-sees and unique history, hire a local guide to show you Rapa Nui National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site that also happens to have one of the world's most beautiful beaches ). Of particular note is Rano Raraku, a volcanic crater that boasts 400 statues.

Colorful colonial architecture and stunning beaches come together in this vibrant Colombian city on the Caribbean coast. The popular old town area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features structures that date back to the 16th century, including a roughly 7-mile stretch of walls that helped fend off naval attacks for centuries. Today, the walls provide excellent vantage points for gazing at the city and sea. The nearby Rosario Islands, with their highly regarded beaches and coral reefs, offer equally breathtaking vistas.

With its scenic beaches, leafy mountains and lively nightlife, Rio de Janeiro makes for a fun getaway any time of year. Whether you're looking to attend the city's larger-than-life Carnival celebration (which takes place in February or March) or explore Brazil's gorgeous natural landscape, Rio has it all. While here, don't miss a visit to the renowned landmark Christ the Redeemer, a 98-foot-tall statue of Jesus Christ that sits at the top of Mount Corcovado. After taking in the attraction's sweeping city views, head down to the coast for a stroll on world-famous Ipanema Beach.

Known as "The City of Eternal Spring" for its year-round temperate weather, Medellín is Colombia's second-largest city. Visit the neighborhood of Comuna 13 (once considered one of the most dangerous areas in Medellín) to take in the colorful buildings and artistic graffiti reflecting the city's history. Ride on one of the outdoor escalators in the neighborhood for spectacular views. For a more Technicolor experience, travel to Medellín in August when the city hosts its annual flower festival where visitors can see extravagant flower arrangements on display. Other popular attractions include El Castillo Museum and Gardens, Plaza Botero and the city's many parks.

Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Belize offers scenic shorelines, unique wildlife and some of Central America's best dive sites. Snorkeling and diving in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Great Blue Hole are major draws, but so are the country's ancient ruins, animal sanctuaries and relaxing beaches. To see Xunantunich and Caracol, two of Belize's best-known Mayan ruins, venture about 75 miles southwest of Belize City to the Cayo District. Meanwhile, nature lovers can visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary or Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, and sun-seekers can head to South Water Caye or the 16-mile Placencia Peninsula for sandy beaches.

Not only does Quito, Ecuador, boast one of the highest elevations in the world among capital cities (9,350 feet above sea level), but the entire city is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take time to get yourself acclimated to the high altitude by admiring the historic city center's buildings, which are some of Latin America's best-preserved and least altered. To learn more about Ecuador and to view an impressive collection of pre-Columbian archaeology and Inca artifacts, peruse the Museo Nacional del Banco Central. When you're ready to climb higher, head to the TelefériQo gondola for unparalleled views of Quito.

The Chilean capital has undergone quite the renaissance since it was founded in the 1500s. You'll discover neoclassical architecture rubbing elbows with modern skyscrapers, plus Spanish and European influences intermingling everywhere. The best way to take in the city's unique style is to walk its streets and barrios (neighborhoods), stopping at attractions like the historical Plaza de Armas – where you'll find the Metropolitan Cathedral and Central Post Office – along the way. Additionally, the area surrounding Santiago features numerous wineries and ski slopes.

It's hard not to fall in love with the wide boulevards, alluring architecture and Parisian-style cafes of Buenos Aires. In addition to its good looks, Argentina's capital city is teeming with culture. Plan to visit its world-class National Museum of Fine Arts, colorful Palermo neighborhood and bustling Corrientes Avenue, where you'll find an array of theaters, bars and tango clubs. Then, head to the upscale Recoleta neighborhood to take in some of Buenos Aires' grandest sites, including El Ateneo Grand Splendid (a converted theater that is now one of South America's most beautiful bookstores) and Recoleta Cemetery.

High in the Andes, the Colombian capital has seen a revival in tourism in recent years. Bogotá has been the cultural center of the country for centuries, offering architecturally interesting buildings that line charming cobblestone streets. To get an overview of the city's rich heritage, travelers should check out the Botero Museum's incredible art and the Gold Museum's priceless treasures. Additional must-dos include exploring the beautiful flora at José Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden and climbing Monserrate, an imposing hill with a church and shrine at its peak.

Guatemala features the cultural and natural wonders synonymous with Central America while remaining relatively unspoiled. Adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path excitement can spend their time traversing misty rainforests, climbing active volcanoes, exploring the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey and zip lining over Lake Atitlán. Meanwhile, the charming city of Antigua boasts colonial architecture and cobblestone streets with the looming Volcán de Agua volcano in the background. Like its neighbors, Mexico and Belize, Guatemala is home to several important Mayan ruins, including Tikal and Iximché, and serene beaches, such as the black sand Monterrico .

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Best Places to Visit in Central America | 18 Family-Friendly Destinations

• Post author By Guest Contributor
• Post date February 26, 2024
• No Comments on Best Places to Visit in Central America | 18 Family-Friendly Destinations

Hunting down family-friendly locations can be challenging, especially when you’re planning to leave the country. You have so many things to get in order before you head out, but the most important is determining a destination.

Luckily, there are many family friendly destinations in Central America to choose from that are fun and safe for children. So, if you’re planning a family vacation to Central America, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in Central America for families.

This list includes 18 of the best destinations in Central America to visit with kids, plus, recommendations on what to do and where to stay in each of the best Central America places to visit.  

What Countries are in Central America?

Central America is a narrow strip of land connecting North America and South America. While technically part of North America, the countries that make up Central America have such a unique culture and history that differs from the North American countries of Canada, United States and Mexico.

Although often referred to as Latin America, which typically includes Mexico and much of South America, as well, Central America specifically is limited to the countries of Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama.

18 Incredible Central America Places to Visit  

Although the countries in Central America have a lot in common, they also vary significantly in some ways.

Depending on the type of family vacation to Central America you are looking for, here is a quick look at the destination that might be right for you.

• Best Central American country for adventure-seekers: Costa Rica
• Best place to visit in Central America for beaches: Belize Cayes
• Best Central America destinations for history and culture: Guatemala
• Least visited Central American country: El Salvador 
• Best place to visit in Central America on a cruise: Roatan, Honduras 
• Most posh Central America destination: Panama City, Panama 
• Best place to visit in Central America for an all-inclusive vacation: Guanacaste Costa Rica

Best Places to Visit in Central America

From adventurous family members to ones who want a more laid-back vacation, you can find something that suits everyone in these Central America destinations.

Table of Contents

1. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Lake Atitlan is a must-see, formed naturally by an eruption of a volcano. It used to be full of Maya villages, but now, you still have all the natural landscapes to enjoy.

Families should visit this lake, considered the most beautiful in the world and one of the great wonders. The lake is also safe to swim in, so it can be great for a family excursion.

Visiting a lake may also teach your older children about a lakeside ecosystem and help them get more interested in one close to home. They might choose to learn more and care about the water quality at home or get involved in a volunteer program.

Where to stay in Lake Atitlan

• Hospedaje el Viajero (budget)
• Selina Atitlan
• Hotel San Buenaventura de Atitlan (luxury)

2: Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

The Arenal Volcano is not only one of Costa Rica’s most recognizable landmarks, the area surrounding the dormant volcanic mountain is an adventure-lover’s dream destination.

From some of the best ziplining in Costa Rica , to waterfalls and natural hot springs to guided hanging bridge tours in Costa Rica’s rainforests , families will have an exciting time exploring the Arenal Rainforest and surrounding area.

Be sure to book a stay at one of the hotels with hot springs near La Fortuna , so you can relax in the evening after a day filled with adventure and activity.

Your family will love every minute of the day from the moment you wake up to the majestic views of the volcano shrouded in clouds to the second they lay their heads down in an eco-friendly, sustainable lodge.

Where to stay near Arenal, Costa Rica 

• Hotel El Silencio del Campo (mid-range)
• Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel (luxury)

3. San Pedro, Belize

You need to visit San Pedro if you want a laid-back destination where golf carts and bicycles are the primary modes of transportation around the town and the island.

The island of Ambergris Caye, which is home to San Pedro, is world-renowned for its barrier reef and is one of the best places to go diving in Belize. Spending time on the beach or at a beach resort with a pool will be nothing but relaxing for you.

It’s an excellent place to start a Central American family vacation. There are plenty of adventures, restaurants, and fun things to do in San Pedro, Belize to keep your family occupied. 

The island’s calm, warm, shallow water makes it an ideal destination in Central America to visit for families. And if visiting Belize with kids , San Pedro will certainly be a highlight!

Where to stay in San Pedro Belize

• Coco Beach Resort (Luxury)
• Belizean Shores Resort (Mid-Range)

4. Granada, Nicaragua

Colors abound in this famous colonial town of Nicaragua. Your children will love to take in the bright hues of different buildings and churches.

From Granada, you can also see the natural beauties of Nicaragua, like lakes and volcanoes, just a day trip away.

The food in Granada is delicious, and if you stay for a while, you can rent one of the houses on the tiny islands.

This location is one of the best places in Central America to visit if you want to prioritize making memories with the ones you love by taking in the beautiful sights of Central America.

Where to stay in Granada, Nicaragua 

• Hotel Dario (luxury)
• Selina Granada (mid-range)

5. Monkey Island, Panama

This island gets its name from the white-faced monkeys that inhabit it. It’s a prominent tourist spot, so it would be perfect for kids who want to see new animals. Arrive early in the morning and you should be able to get the whole experience.

Your kids can learn more about monkeys and how they can benefit the ecosystem around them.

The boat ride to get to Monkey Island might take a while, so bring something to keep the kids distracted from the potentially long journey.

You can easily take a boat ride to Monkey Island as a day trip from Panama City.

Book a day trip to Monkey Island and the Panama Canal. 

6. Guanacaste, Costa Rica

The region of Guanacaste in Costa Rica is best known for its beaches and posh, all-inclusive resorts. It is one of the best places in Central America for an all-inclusive, stress-free vacation.

If visiting Costa Rica with kids , plan to spend at least a few days in Guanacaste to enjoy some relaxing beach time. Book a beach hopping excursion to see some of the country’s black sand, white sand, and even pink sand beaches. 

If you want to venture away from the shore, Guanacaste is also home to Llanos de Cortes , one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls and natural swimming holes. The small pool beneath this stunning waterfall is shallow enough that children can easily swim.

Llanos de Cortes can easily be reached on a guided tour, or a self-guided adventure if you rent a car and plan to drive around Costa Rica .  

Where to stay in Guanacaste, Costa Rica 

• Riu Guanacaste (mid-range)
• Planet Hollywood Beach Resort (luxury)

7. Panama City, Panama

Panama City can be both an educational and fun destination for your family. You can take in some old Spanish architecture in the cobblestoned historic center of Casco Viejo, or enjoy the various stores and rich dining experiences in the luxurious Marbella district.

The city is one of the most modern and cosmopolitan places to visit in Central America, with high rises, posh hotels and trendy restaurants.

Of course, one of the country’s main tourist attractions, the Panama Canal is just a 15 minute drive from downtown. Built by the US in 1914, the famous canal connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans cutting through the isthmus of Panama as a means of making Maritime trade safer and more efficient. 

You can also find natural environments around Panama City, which means it’s the perfect destination for anyone who doesn’t know where else to go in Central America. You’ll see nothing but fantastic views when you visit.

It’s a great destination to take a family to because it has so many things to do. 

Where to stay in Panama City, Panama 

• Riu Plaza Panama

8. Pacaya Volcano, Guatemala

Pacaya volcano is a national park that offers an up-close look into the lava flows that run through it. It’s close to the country’s largest city, Guatemala City, and about an hour away from Antigua, the tourism hub for the country, making it easy to explore upon arriving in Guatemala.

The Pacaya Volcano is active, meaning you must be careful around it, and is one of the few active volcanoes in the world you can actually climb.

Your family should be safe around the volcano, but your knowledgeable guide will share the fascinating history of Pacaya, as well as teach you about proper evacuation methods and how lava travels faster in some terrains.

It might be a great adventure to take older kids on as long as they can understand the dangers around it.

Book a guided tour to Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala 

9. Suchitoto, El Salvador

Suchitoto is a delight, as it’s overflowing with cultural flair. Many people dress like cowboys here and there’s plenty to do to keep your kids occupied. You can stumble upon one of the many tours offered in this quaint lakeside town or enjoy some of the museum attractions.

If you want to dive into El Salvadorian history, Suchitoto is the place to be — it was a crucial place in the Salvadorian civil war back in the 1980s.

You can see things both natural and human-made in this city, so it’s worth a look if you plan on visiting El Salvador.

Where to stay in Suchitoto, El Salvador 

• Casa 1800 Suchitoto Boutique

10. Tikal National Park, Guatemala

One of the best places to visit in the Peten Province of Guatemala, the Tikal National Park is an awesome place to visit in Guatemala with kids . The lush vegetation of the jungle can draw your family in, as can the opportunity to see wildlife.

This national park contains the Tikal ruins, one of the most important ruins in Maya culture.

These ruins include stone carvings and intricate inscriptions. While you can easily get to Tikal from San Ignacio, Belize as a day trip, if you’re eager to absorb more of Maya culture, spend at least one night inside Tikal National Park. It is a must-see!

You would have to cross the Belize-Guatemala border , which can be tricky to navigate, the Tikal ruins are well worth the trip! 

Be forewarned though, exploring Tikal requires a lot of walking!

Being out in nature and walking around can also give you several health benefits though, like lessening symptoms of depression or helping digestion, so take your time and enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage Site and the exercise you’ll get while exploring it!

Where to stay near Tikal National Park, Guatemala 

• Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal
• Hotel Tikal Inn

11. Antigua, Guatemala

The historic city of Antigua is perhaps the most popular city for tourism in Guatemala. The Spanish colonial town is surrounded by volcanoes and renowned for its colorful buildings.

Once the colonial capital city, Antigua was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773, and the capital was moved to Guatemala City. 

For centuries, Antigua has maintained its colonial charm and has a relatively low population.

It’s a wonderful place to immerse yourself in Maya culture and learn about the history of Guatemala, or even immerse yourself in the Spanish language, one of the top languages for travel you should try to learn.

Where to stay in Antigua, Guatemala 

• Hotel la Galeria

12. Caracol, Belize

The Maya ruins in Belize are fascinating places full of history. If anyone in your family wants to learn more about the days gone by, visiting the ancient city of Caracol is perfect. The largest ruins in Belize, Caracol is an easy day trip from San Ignacio.

Most day trips to Caracol also include stops at other popular tourist spots in the country, like Rio Frio Cave and Rio On Pools .

With only 10 percent of Caracol unearthed, researchers estimate that much of the city is yet to be discovered. Archaeological work is still ongoing, so it remains to be seen what else researched will unearth in this ancient city.

Book a day trip to Caracol from San Ignacio 

13. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Central America.

Spanning more than 10,000 acres, the forest reserve draws roughly 70,000 visitors each year who come to see the colorful assortment of flora and fauna in a dream-like forest almost always covered in clouds.

Similar to Arenal, Monteverde is a popular destination for ziplining and hanging bridge tours.  

Where to stay in the Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Trapp Family Lodge
• Camino Verde B&B

14. Macaw Mountain, Honduras

If you’re in Honduras, visit Macaw Mountain before your vacation passes you by.

The nature reserve features several species of birds that will delight your entire family. You’ll have a great time learning more about the different types of birds and how they came to the park through means of rescue. 

The park, which has been taking care of abandoned parrots and macaws since the 1980s, is run entirely on donations, so you can also contribute to the good cause after your visit.

Where to stay near Macaw Mountain, Honduras 

15. caye caulker, belize.

Just a short boat ride from Ambergris Caye and San Pedro, Caye Caulker is often considered the most laid back of all the Belize islands. To get to Caye Caulker, you’ll ride a boat from Belize City for about an hour.

It’s one of the greatest island destinations in Belize, featuring fantastic shopping opportunities and an exciting diversity of aquatic species.

It’s also home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world for adventurous travelers and is often a popular destination for diving enthusiasts, as well as European tourists, so you’ll likely find some crowds year-round. 

Spring is the most popular season to visit, so if you’re looking for a private beach destination, consider making it your vacation destination during a different season of the year.

Where to stay in Caye Caulker, Belize

• Colida Cabanas
• Island Magic Beach Resort

16: Roatan, Honduras

Roatan, Honduras is one of the best Caribbean islands for families , and an easy destination in Honduras to visit. The island is a popular stop for many Caribbean cruises, and is known as one of the best dive spots in the Caribbean.

Like many other places in Central America, Roatan boasts gorgeous white sand beaches, jungles, and crystal clear water filled with colorful fish – perfect for kids learning to snorkel for the first time.

Spend some time at West Bay Beach and enjoy the low-key vibes that the island is known for.  

Where to stay in Roatan, Honduras

• Grand Roatan Caribbean Resort

17. San Ignacio, Belize

Located in western Belize, in the Cayo District, San Ignacio is a popular place in Central America if you are looking to explore the jungles and Mayan ruins the Belize is known for .

There are a lot of things to do in San Ignacio and the surrounding area.

Many people visiting the area choose to stay in one of the incredible jungle lodges located just outside the city. But you’ll find no shortage of caves, waterfalls, and ruins, like Cahal Pech and Xunantunich, just a short distance from the city, if you have rented a car and plan to drive in Belize .

San Ignacio’s sister town — Santa Elena — is connected to it by a suspension bridge. After visiting the ruins, you can explore all the local areas with your family. These ruins are also by a river, giving you plenty of beautiful sights to take in while you experience history.

Where to stay in San Ignacio, Belize 

• Lodge at Chaa-Chaa Creek
• Table Rock Jungle Lodge

18: San Jose, Costa Rica

The whole country of Costa Rica is perfect for sightseeing and has several opportunities for families looking for something to do.

If your family loves adventure, you can try a whitewater rafting tour, which will show you the beautiful views of Costa Rica you can’t see anywhere else, thanks to traveling by waterway. You can also take on other fun adventures, like horseback riding or snorkeling.

If you’re looking for a place to start your adventure in Costa Rica with kids , choose San Jose. While San Jose is often overlooked As the capital city of Costa Rica, it has much to offer and can occupy your time before you tackle the activities that involve the country’s beautiful nature.

It has several museums that could interest families with kids of all ages, like the art and children’s museums. It also has several zoos that can keep a child’s attention and teach them more about the animals in the area.

Where to stay in San Jose, Costa Rica 

• Gran Hotel Costa Rica (luxury) 
• Park Inn San Jose (mid-range)

Conclusion | Choose Your Central American Destination Wisely

While not every destination has everything, you should be able to find a little something that everyone likes in these 18 best places to visit in Central America. Sit down with your family and plan out your vacation carefully — you should be able to find something that works for everyone.

Whatever destination you choose, remember you’ll make beautiful memories as a family – and fall in love with Central America.

Have a suggestion or a question about any of these best places to visit in Central America? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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10 Best Places To Visit In Belize In 2024

B elize is a magnificent country tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, with a long stretch of coastline along the Caribbean Sea. We spent a week in Belize during our Central America backpacking trip and could’ve easily stayed much longer! 

I was blown away by the kindness of the local people and their vibrant energy. Not to mention the stunning beaches and relaxed island lifestyles. I loved nature and wildlife and just how welcoming Belize felt.

Belize is not only a perfect destination to visit on its own and spend a week or two exploring but you could also easily combine it with a longer trip from Mexico to Guatemala for example, thanks to its relatively small size. 

With so many incredible places to visit in Belize, this list will give you all of the best options to choose the perfect destinations for you.

Best Places To Visit In Belize

Belize may be a small country but there are so many great places in this beautiful country.

Here are the top 10 best places to visit in Belize.

1 – Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small island with a very relaxed and laid-back vibe . In fact, it is more correct to describe it as 2 islands since it was hit by a hurricane in 1961 and torn in two. Naturally, the locals took this in their stride and this narrow channel of sea between the 2 islands is now named ‘The Split’.

The Split is a popular place to hang out and enjoy the beautiful clear waters. There is a great beach bar by the split called the Lazy Lizard, where I highly recommend spending an afternoon. 

Caye Caulker is well known for being a backpacker hub , especially around the main town. You will find plenty of hostels and bars to meet fellow travelers. We loved the beachside coffee shack called Ice & Beans. They do great coffee and have hammocks on the beach so you can swing while you sip.

If you are looking for something a little more luxurious, on the other side of The Split you will find more resor t s and hotels that are geared more toward families visiting Belize with kids .

2 – Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is one of the best Caribbean islands for families . The largest of the Belizean islands, and one of the most popular places to visit in Belize, Ambergris Caye is around 25 miles long but no wider than 1 mile .

The main town is San Pedro, towards the south of the island. There are a lot of things to do in San Pedro , as it is a bustling hub with a much more authentic feel than Caye Caulker. 

In this town, you will find more local people going about their day-to-day lives than you will tourists.

We stayed at the Sandbar Beachfront Hostel and this was one of the best hostels we found in Central America . Located right on the beach they have a private pier over the water, a great pool and the restaurant makes the best pizzas!

If you head further north along Ambergris Caye you will find many quiet and stunning beaches with breathtaking turquoise waters. From the shores of the island, you can even see the Barrier Reef that runs alongside Belize.

3 – San Ignacio

Found just a short drive from the Belize-Guatemala border is the town of San Ignacio. Located in far western Belize , it is often used as a stopover by travelers heading from one country to the other. But the town of San Ignacio actually has an awful lot to offer.

San Ignacio is a small town and can be explored on foot , you can take a stroll along the river or head to the big local market for some fresh fruit or homemade local delicacies. 

San Ignacio has a lot to do , and is a great place to base yourself if you want to visit the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave) or explore some of the other places mentioned on this list such as Caracol or Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

San Ignacio is also home to its very own Mayan Ruins site called Cahal Pech .

Cahal Pech is only $5 USD to enter and when we visited we had the entire site to ourselves for hours! You are even allowed to climb the Pyramids still at this site.

If you are heading from Belize to Guatemala, it is worth spending a couple of days in San Ignacio before moving on to Guatemala .

ALSO READ: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING GUATEMALA WITH KIDS

4 – Hopkins

Hopkins is a quiet and peaceful beach village located in the south of the country. It is steadily growing in popularity among travelers but this south Belize gem still maintains its authentic nature, food and culture . This is what visitors love most about Hopkins. 

You can enjoy the quiet, pristine beaches in peace and get a real experience of the way of life in this area. One of the most special things to do while in Hopkins is experience the Garifuna drumming . An art that is only practiced in a handful of places still, so it is not to be missed. 

The Garifuna people are of mixed Afro-Caribbean descent. They immigrated from the island of Saint Vincent to Belize, settling primarily in the coastal areas, like Hopkins, where Garifuna culture is a celebrated part of the visitor experience.

Hopkins is also the best place to stay if you want to explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Reserve . This is one of the only Jaguar reserves in the world.

You can join a tour to hike through the reserve , swimming in beautiful waterfalls as you keep your eyes peeled for a rare glimpse of a Jaguar.

5 – Belize City

If you are flying directly to Belize then you will be landing in Belize City as this is the only international airport in the country . It then makes sense that you may want to spend a day or two exploring the country’s capital city. 

There is a surprising amount of colonial history and architecture to be found throughout the city and the best way to experience it all is on a guided tour of the city . This way you will have a local guide who can explain more about what you are seeing as well as advising on the safe areas to stick to around the city.

Some more great spots to have on your itinerary in Belize City are the government buildings, St John’s Cathedral and the Museum of Belize.

Spend a day exploring these sites before you head out to the Cayes and you will really be able to appreciate the contrast between city and island life.

6 – The Blue Hole

Perhaps one of the most iconic and well-known places to visit in Belize is the magnificent Blue Hole . This incredibly unique sinkhole is a natural wonder that is located around 43 miles off the coast of Belize.

It is possible to experience the Blue Hole by boat or from above in a helicopter or small plane. Boat trips are best from Ambergris Caye as this is closer to the hole and the journey will be 3-4 hours each way.

Flights also leave from the small airstrip in San Pedro each day to take tourists on an hour-long flight over the hole .

It is also known to be one of the most sought-after dive sites in the world , drawing experienced divers from far and wide to experience its mysterious depths.

7 – Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley

Belize is located right next to the second-largest barrier reef in the world . If you are an ocean lover then no trip to Belize should be complete without taking a diving or snorkeling trip out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve on the Belize Barrier Reef.

The reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising seven protected areas, including the Blue Hole, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and stretching as far south as the South Water Caye Marine Reserve and Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, located off the shores of Placencia. 

We did a combination of snorkeling and diving and were blown away. Hol Chan Marine Reserve is home to hundreds of colorful fish, rays and sea turtles and the water visibility is great.

Shark Ray Alley is an incredible spot that is now home to hundreds of friendly nurse sharks and rays. You can jump right in and swim amongst them. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These waters are also home to Manatees .

We were lucky enough to see one and they are much larger than we expected.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve can be accessed by boat from either Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker .

8 – Caracol Mayan Ruins

Belize is known for its impressive Mayan ruins. The ancient Mayan archeological site of Caracol is pretty special.

It’s no secret that there are hundreds of Maya sites in Belize , as well as sprinkled across Mexico and Guatemala. While there are a few more famous than Caracol, like Tikal in Guatemala and Chichén Itzá in Mexico, Caracol is seriously underrated.

This impressive site is buried deep within the Belize jungles, 2 hours from the nearest town and no public transport goes there. Making this one of the most off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Belize.

You will need to join a tour or rent a 4×4 to get there as there is an hour of driving off road before you reach the site.

Caracol was once one of the major Maya hubs, covering an area of 55 square miles. Now the main pyramids have been uncovered and tower over the jungle.

9 – Placencia

Placencia is the most southern beach destination on this list, located a little further south along the coast from Hopkins. 

This sleepy fishing village is slowly becoming a favorite among travelers thanks to its small and charming main street, lack of traffic and incredible beaches.

Placencia is the name of the village that sits at the end of the 16 mile-long Placencia Peninsula. The narrow strip of land is only half a mile wide at its widest point making it very much feel like a remote caye.

Luckily for us, it has all the vibes of a gorgeous caye but we can drive there. It is still largely undeveloped and mostly inhabited by locals. You will find no high rises here.

Each morning the local fishermen still head out in their boats around the peninsula and during the summer months, this is an ideal spot to head out on a snorkeling tour find Whale sharks.

10 – Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a unique landscape in Belize. You won’t find the iconic pine trees in the other jungles across the country.

This entrance to the reserve is around a 45-minute drive from San Ignacio . It is possible to drive yourself however the roads inside the reserve can get treacherous after rainfall. The best way to visit the pine forest reserve is on a guided tour . 

A tour can take you to multiple spots in a day so you make the most out of your time there. The reserve is home to beautiful towering waterfalls as well as smaller rock pools like Rio On Pools which are perfect for swimming. 

It is also where you can find the impressive Rio Frio cave . An enormous cave that leads to a huge underground river system. It is well worth a trip to this wonderful nature spot if you enjoy time in the great outdoors.

BOOK A TOUR TO RIO ON POOLS, RIO FRIO CAVE, AND THE CARACOL MAYAN RUINS

Best Places To Visit In Belize FAQs

If you’re planning a trip to any of the best places to visit in Belize, you likely have some other questions about this Central American destination.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Belize.

What part of Belize is best to stay in?

If you are looking for beautiful beaches and to meet lots of fellow travelers then you should stay on Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The water around the cayes is shallow and calm, which is ideal if visiting on a Belize family vacation . 

If you want beaches but peace and quiet then you should stay along the beaches in the south of the country. If you are looking to experience the jungles and Mayan ruins then you should stay in San Ignacio.

The jungles around San Ignacio are also home to some beautiful eco-lodges that are great for a peaceful escape.

How long do you need in Belize?

I would recommend spending no less than one week in Belize to get the most out of your time there.

Ten days or more would be the ideal amount of time if you want to experience the islands and the coastal area along the mainland, as well as see the Mayan ruins and the jungles in western Belize.

If you have less than a week then I recommend spending your time on the Cayes and not moving around too much.

When is the best time of year to visit Belize?

The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season from January to May. This is when you will have the best temperatures and the least rainfall.

From August to December there is a low risk of hurricanes so always check before you travel.

Is Belize safe to visit?

Belize is generally known to be a safe country for tourists to visit. Belize City has a bit of a reputation for being unsafe in certain areas but crime is rarely directed towards tourists. If in doubt there are plenty of great group tours you can join to explore the city with a local who knows the area.

Regardless of where you visit, it is always best to leave your valuables at home and not wander around alone at night time.

Is Belize cheap or expensive?

Belize is not typically a budget travel destination. It is possible to find cheaper hostel beds, take public buses and eat street food. However, there are far more luxury resorts and activities in Belize which are usually pretty expensive.

A Summary of the Best Places to Visit in Belize

So, this concludes our list of the best places to visit in Belize and hopefully, you now have all the information you need to decide which places to visit on your next trip to Belize. 

From the beautiful Cayes to the lush jungles, Belize is home to some of the best places to visit in Central America for families , couples, or even solo travelers. It is such a wonderful country that it feels like visiting a true gem, hidden in plain sight.

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I've been to 107 countries. Italy and Mexico are great, but these 5 underrated destinations should be on your travel radar.

• I've visited 107 countries, and I recommend these 5 that can be overlooked for more popular places. 
• Estonia is a European dream, and Namibia is one of my favorite places in the world . 
• Costa Rica is popular but not as packed with tourists as some similarly beautiful places nearby. 

This year, travelers are looking to visit more under-the-radar destinations than popular ones — in part to dodge crowds and in part to save money.

Some are specifically looking for "travel dupes," a term for destinations similar to popular spots that are often cheaper with fewer crowds.

And, as someone who's been to 107 countries , I can tell you each region of the world has an often overlooked country that may offer a more rewarding experience than a more well-known place. These more under-the-radar destinations are often less crowded, and your dollar just might go further.

Popular travel destinations like Italy, France, and Mexico are great picks — but consider visiting these alternative options to the more popular choices in the region.

Estonia is a European dream.

I was immediately captivated by the fairy-tale appearance of Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia.

Walking the cobblestoned streets within the fortress-like walls of the old city transported me back to medieval times.

The city is small enough to explore on foot, and there's plenty to entertain history and architecture enthusiasts. Enjoying a coffee or a beer in the Town Hall Square while people watching is a highlight of my European travels.

Although many people visit Tallinn as a day trip from Helsinki, which is a two-hour ferry ride away, it's worth staying here for a few days and heading into the Estonian countryside. The roads are often quite empty and incredibly peaceful.

I enjoyed Estonia so much that I returned twice more in the 18 months after my first visit.

I've enjoyed visiting Oman, a country in the Middle East.

Dubai gets a lot of attention for its luxurious travel opportunities , and many know Qatar because it recently hosted the World Cup, but nearby Oman should not be skipped.

After all, Oman's capital, Muscat, provides an excellent gateway to the country.

A stroll along the beautiful Corniche will take you along the water and by the bustling Grand Bazaar. For those who love hikes, there are plenty of options in Oman, including several easily accessible trails in Muscat that offer great city views.

Better still, the amazing Wadi Shab is less than two hours from the capital city and is one of the best hikes I've ever experienced . The trail takes you through narrow gorges and across streams and ends with a surreal swim through incredible caves.

It's an experience so breathtaking I'd expected it to be packed with tourists, but it wasn't when we visited. We only saw a handful of people, which allowed us to really enjoy our trip.

I've seen many parts of Africa, but Namibia may just be my favorite spot.

I have been fortunate to go on safaris in Kenya , Botswana, and Tanzania, but Namibia is my favorite travel destination of the bunch.

While there, we rented a campervan and did a self-drive tour of the country, allowing us to explore independently. Yet again, we avoided the crowds and the campsites were usually just us and local animals.

Waking up to the sounds of monkeys, elephants, and even lions was a special treat, especially knowing we were safe inside our campervan.

In addition to the wildlife, there's a lot to explore in Namibia, including colossal dunes, which we hiked up and surfed down —undoubtedly the trip highlight for my children.

Sri Lanka showcases a lot of what Asia landscapes have to offer.

Asia has some beautiful beaches, but Sri Lanka has beaches and tea plantations, mountains, rocks, waterfalls, and more.

We visited Sri Lanka last year and hired a driver and guide who showcased the diverse landscapes of this island country. The food was terrific and extremely cheap — our family of four was fed for less than $10 on most occasions.

The locals I interacted with were incredibly friendly and the island is also small enough to allow for in-depth exploration in a relatively short time.

Costa Rica is an excellent place to visit in Central America.

Growing up in Texas, my wife has been to Mexico many times since the state shares a border with the country. But to explore somewhere new, smaller, and in the same region, we chose to have our honeymoon in Costa Rica .

Although it's still popular, Costa Rica offers an authentic travel experience as I feel it has yet to be overrun by tourists. Like the other countries on this list, it has a diverse landscape, from white-sand beaches to rainforests to volcanoes, so there's plenty to do.

We also visited during the rainy season, so we took advantage of low crowds , low prices, and often received upgrades — and, as a bonus, it rarely rained!

• Main content

When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Annular solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know about the next solar eclipse

After the Great North American Eclipse comes a long "ring of fire" annular solar eclipse that can be seen in some iconic destinations.

• What is it?
• Where to see it from
• Viewing locations and timings
• Why so special?
• Partial solar eclipse viewing locations
• Next annular eclipse

Additional resources

Now that the "Great North American Eclipse" is over, you may be itching for the next opportunity to witness another celestial marvel. So when is the next solar eclipse ? 

The next total solar eclipse is more than two years out, on Aug. 12, 2026, in Greenland, Iceland and Spain. However, on Oct. 2, 2024 , a "ring of fire" annular solar eclipse will pass over parts of the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile and southern Argentina.

Whereas 43.8 million people were able to experience totality for the April 8, 2024, eclipse in North America, only 175,000 people will have that opportunity for the Oct. 2 annular solar eclipse, according to Time and Date . The paths of both eclipses cross in the Pacific Ocean . 

During an annular solar eclipse, it is NEVER safe to look directly at the sun without solar eclipse glasses designed for solar viewing. Read our guide on how to observe the sun safely . 

So, ready to go eclipse chasing? Here's everything you need to know about the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 2, 2024, in Chile and Argentina. 

What is an annular solar eclipse?

The Oct. 2 eclipse will be very similar to the annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023 , which was visible across the U.S. Southwest, Central America and South America. All solar eclipses occur when a new moon is positioned precisely between Earth and the sun and casts its shadow on Earth. However, unlike a total solar eclipse, an annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon is slightly farther from Earth. So, even when the disks align from our perspective, the moon's shadow doesn't completely block out the sun's light. Instead, a ring of sunlight is visible around the moon.

Related: What's the difference between a total solar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse?

The eclipse on Oct. 2, 2024, will have an eclipse magnitude of 0.9326, according to EclipseWise.com . That means about 93% of the sun will be blocked by the moon during the eclipse, resulting in an "annulus" (Latin for "ring"). The moon will appear 6.4% smaller than average, according to MoonBlink . 

The closer the observer is to the centerline, the more circular the ring of fire will be and the longer it will last. But experienced eclipse chasers often observe from the edge of the path during an annular solar eclipse to see extended views of Baily's beads fizzing around where the limb of the moon appears to touch the sun. They can be visible for several minutes. 

From where can you see the Oct. 2 annular solar eclipse?

The ring of fire will be visible only within a path of annularity that passes across the Pacific Ocean, southern Chile and southern Argentina. 

This area will include the volcanic island of Rapa Nui/Easter Island, an iconic travel destination that's famous for the mysterious stone statues called moai, some of which reach 40 feet (12 meters) tall and weigh 75 tons. The island, which is only 63 square miles (163 square kilometers), is located 2,300 miles (3,700 km) from the Chilean coast, making it the most isolated inhabited landmass on Earth. Remarkably, it will be the second time a central solar eclipse has been visible from this tiny Pacific island in recent decades, with a total solar eclipse glimpsed there on July 11, 2010 . The next total and annular eclipses there will be in 2324 and 2345, respectively. 

A good option would be to position yourself slightly south of a moai at multiple sites to get a view of the ring of fire just above one of the statues, according to the Atlas of Solar Eclipses — 2020 to 2045 . Iconic locations will include the platform at Ahu Tongariki, where 15 moai are positioned on a 200-foot-long (60 m) ceremonial platform and nearby Rano Raraku. 

October's ring of fire will also be visible from southern Patagonia in Chile and Argentina. The path will be 180 to 185 miles (290 to 300 km) wide. 

Where and when can I see the Oct. 2 annular solar eclipse?

Here are some places eclipse chasers will gather for this annular solar eclipse:  

• Rapa Nui/Easter Island, Chile (5 minutes, 38 seconds to 6 minutes, 12 seconds of annularity starting at 14:03 EAST, 67 degrees above North) 
•  Cochrane, Chile (5 minutes, 40 seconds of annularity starting at 17:21 CLST, 26 degrees above NNW) 
•   Perito Moreno National Park , Argentina (6 minutes, 17 seconds of annularity starting at 17:21 ART, 25 degrees above NNW)  
•  Puerto Deseado, Argentina (3 minutes, 22 seconds of annularity starting at 17:27 ART, 20 degrees above NNW) 
•  Puerto San Julian, Argentina (5 minutes, 12 seconds of annularity starting at 17:24 ART, 21 degrees above NNW) 

Organized eclipse-viewing tours include Sky & Telescope , TravelQuest and AstroTrails . All are experienced eclipse tour operators that are headed to Rapa Nui/Easter Island.  

What will the weather be like for the Oct. 2 annular eclipse?

It's always best to travel somewhere you want to visit regardless of a solar eclipse. That certainly applies to the Oct. 2 event, because the prospects of a completely clear sky are relatively low. The chances of clouds that day are 75% for Rapa Nui/Easter Island,, 90% for Perito Moreno National Park, and 65% to 70% for locations on Argentina's Atlantic coast, according to Time and Date . 

On Rapa Nui/Easter Island, the cooling of the land could cause convective clouds to dissipate, according to Eclipsophile , with the south coast statistically slightly favored. The chances of seeing the ring of fire are smallest on Chile's Pacific Coast and highest on Argentina's Atlantic coast. The latter has the least interesting scenery of anywhere in the path, but the eclipse will arguably be a more dramatic sight because it will occur much lower in the sky. 

Why is the Oct. 2, 2024, annular solar eclipse special?

The Oct. 2, 2024, annular solar eclipse is special for three very different reasons. First, it follows the Great North American Eclipse of April 8 — so interest in solar eclipses should be high, and many eclipse chasers will travel to see it. 

Second, it's a long eclipse, with the ring of fire lasting up to 7 minutes, 25 seconds. That's much longer than the 4 minutes, 52 seconds possible in the U.S. during the last annular solar eclipse on Oct. 14, 2023. 

Third, the best place to view this event is a truly iconic destination: Rapa Nui, also called Easter Island. 

Where to see the partial solar eclipse on Oct. 2

Although a ring-of-fire eclipse will be visible only from the aforementioned areas of Chile and Argentina, other areas will experience a partial solar eclipse on Oct. 2. These areas include parts of the Pacific Ocean and the southern half of South America. Here's what percentage of eclipse will be seen from major cities and destinations in the partial-eclipse zone:  

• Galapagos Islands (1%) 
• La Paz, Bolivia (1%) 
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (9%)  
• São Paulo, Brazil (10%) 
• Buenos Aires, Argentina (42%)  
• Montevideo, Uruguay (42%)  
• Santiago, Chile (44%)
• Villarrica, Chile (63%)    
• El Calafate, Argentina (83%) 
• Falkland Islands (84%)  
• South Georgia Island (76%)  
• Punta Arenas, Chile (75%) 
• Ushuaia, Argentina (72%) 
• Elephant Island (56%)  
• Port Lockroy, Antarctica (44%)  

After October 2024, when is the next annular solar eclipse?

Here are the dates and locations for some upcoming annular solar eclipses:  

• Feb. 17, 2026 : Antarctica 
• Feb. 6, 2027 : Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Nigeria
• Jan. 26, 2028 : Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Brazil, French Guiana, Portugal, Morocco and Spain  
• June 1, 2030 : Algeria, Tunisia, Greece, Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, China and Japan 

Want to look further ahead? You can find a concise summary of solar eclipses out to 2030 on NASA's eclipse website . Read more about solar and lunar eclipses on EclipseWise.com , a website dedicated to predictions of eclipses. See beautiful maps on eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler's GreatAmericanEclipse.com and interactive Google Maps on Xavier Jubier's eclipse website. You can find climate and weather predictions by meteorologist Jay Anderson on eclipsophile.com . 

Bibliography

Anderson, J. (February 2024). Annular Solar Eclipse

2024 October 2. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from https://eclipsophile.com/annular-solar-eclipse-october-2-2024/

Bakich, M. and Zeiler, M. (2022). Atlas Of Solar Eclipses 2020-2045. 

https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/books/atlas-of-solar-eclipses-2020-to-2045

Espenak, F. Solar Eclipse Prime Page: Annular Solar Eclipse of 2024 October 2. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from: https://eclipsewise.com/solar/SEprime/2001-2100/SE2024Oct02Aprime.html

Jubier, X. (n.d.). Solar eclipses: Interactive Google Maps. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from http://xjubier.free.fr/en/site_pages/SolarEclipsesGoogleMaps.html

Time and Date. (n.d.). October 2 2024 Annular Solar Eclipse. Retrieved March 1, 2024 from https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2024-october-2  

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Jamie is an experienced science, technology and travel journalist and stargazer who writes about exploring the night sky, solar and lunar eclipses, moon-gazing, astro-travel, astronomy and space exploration. He is the editor of  WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com  and author of  A Stargazing Program For Beginners , and is a senior contributor at Forbes. His special skill is turning tech-babble into plain English.

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Total solar eclipse 2024: Where, when, and how to watch

People in North America will be able to witness a total solar eclipse on April 8 as the moon completely blocks the sun.

Millions of people across North America will get the chance to experience a very special natural event on Monday when a total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of Mexico, the United States and Canada.

The total eclipse – which occurs when the moon completely blocks out the sun – will darken skies for a few minutes “as if it were dawn or dusk”, the US’s NASA space agency explains.

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It will be visible from a 185km-wide (115 mile-wide) band that stretches from the western coast of Mexico, through the US, and up to Canada’s easternmost province of Newfoundland and Labrador – what’s known as the “path of totality”.

“Weather permitting, people along the path of totality will see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun,” NASA says on its website.

The path of totality is really “where it’s at” on Monday, said Anthony Aveni, professor emeritus at Colgate University in New York and author of the book, In the Shadow of the Moon: The Science, Magic, and Mystery of Solar Eclipses.

“It’s that precious three minutes or so … of totality when you see a whole range of phenomena that you just don’t see in everyday life,” he told Al Jazeera. “It takes your breath away and you stop what you’re doing and gawk at nature.”

So how often do total solar eclipses occur? How long does it typically last? Where and how can you watch safely? Here’s everything you need to know.

Where will the total eclipse be visible from, and at what time?

Monday’s total eclipse will be visible from parts of Mexico, the US and Canada.

It will enter continental North America in Mazatlan, in the northwestern Mexican state of Sinaloa, at 11:07am local time (18:07 GMT). It will exit the continent on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16pm local time (19:46 GMT).

In the US, the eclipse will enter the state of Texas at 1:27pm local time (18:27 GMT) and exit in Maine at 3:35pm local time (19:35 GMT).

It will last only a few minutes, and the exact time it will be visible depends on where you are within the path of totality.

For example, in Erie, Pennsylvania, totality starts at 3:16pm local time (19:16 GMT) and ends at 3:20pm (19:20 GMT).

It will reach Buffalo, New York, a few minutes later: there, totality starts at 3:18pm local time (19:18 GMT) and ends at 3:22pm (19:22 GMT).

A partial eclipse also will be visible for about two hours on Monday, before and after totality.

What happens during a total solar eclipse?

While the Earth and moon both orbit the sun, the moon also circles the Earth each month.

During a total solar eclipse, the moon passes directly between the sun and the Earth, completely blocking the sun’s light on one side, and casting a shadow on a small area of Earth on its other side.

The dark inner part – the “umbra” – of this shadow creates a narrow track or “path” as the moon orbits the Earth. Areas on this path, and especially on its centreline, which fall directly under the shadow, are the ones from where the total eclipse will be visible.

This track is about 160km (100 miles) wide and 16,000km (10,000 miles) long.

“If it was a lunar eclipse, it would last for a few hours and people around the world could see it. But the difference is that total eclipses only happen over a specific path of that new moon,” said Khady Adama Ndao, a NASA eclipse ambassador.

This eclipse only occurs during a new moon. And the moon’s position in its orbit, relative to the sun and Earth, as well as the angles of all three at a specific time, are what create a total eclipse.

While the moon will be close enough to Earth so as to look as though it entirely covers the sun during an eclipse, in reality the moon is 400 times smaller than the sun. It’s the increased distance between the moon and the sun at the time of a total eclipse that makes the moon look like it is big enough to cover the sun.

Meanwhile, people who are close to the path of totality, but not directly in it, may see what’s known as a partial eclipse on Monday. That’s when only a part of the sun is obscured by the moon.

Areas from which a partial eclipse will be visible fall under faint parts of the moon’s wider shadow, called the “penumbra”.

What does a total eclipse look like?

As the moon moves past the sun during an eclipse, it will slowly obscure the sun – creating a dark sky – before reaching the moment of “totality”. That’s when almost the entirety of the sun will be covered, leaving only a faint circle of the sun’s light or the corona.

After a few minutes, people in the path of totality will see a partial eclipse again as the moon moves away. The sun will become fully visible again.

What else happens during the moment of totality?

There is a drop in temperature and animals also start to behave as if it’s nighttime.

The chirping patterns of birds may change, while nocturnal animals such as bats and owls may start to wake up and look for prey.

Stars and celestial objects hanging in the dark sky may also become more visible.

If a person were to stand on the moon or a space station orbiting Earth, they would also be able to see a dark shadow passing over the Earth.

How long will the total solar eclipse last on April 8?

A total solar eclipse can last between two to three hours, from the moment the moon first begins to cover the sun, until the time the moon crosses past the sun and stops obscuring it.

However, the period of totality in most places this year will last only between three and a half to four minutes.

Areas on and very close to the centreline will experience the longest period of totality while totality will last for shorter periods of time in areas farther from the centreline.

The longest period of totality on Monday – 4 minutes and 28 seconds – will occur near Torreon, Mexico. That’s because the area is closest to the point at which the shadow’s path is perpendicular to the Earth’s surface and near the central line of the umbral shadow.

In the past, totality in some places has lasted for as little as a few seconds, and as long as seven and a half minutes.

The durations of the eclipse and the period of totality differ due to a combination of factors, such as the curvature of the Earth and angle at which the moon’s shadow strikes.

Mobile applications such as “Totality” track eclipse start and end times, as well as totality durations for different cities on the total eclipse’s path.

What are some of the cultural and historical beliefs around total solar eclipses?

Total solar eclipses have captivated people for thousands of years. But in ancient civilisations, the phenomenon was often viewed as a bad omen.

In ancient China, for example, people believed that solar eclipses happened because “a celestial dragon” was eating the sun, according to NASA . As a result, people made loud noises during eclipses “to frighten the dragon away”.

The Inca people of South America believed solar eclipses were a sign of the sun god Inti’s anger.

And in ancient Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), a solar eclipse was thought to signal that the ruler was in grave danger – leading decision-makers to put a system in place known as the “substitute king”.

In order to prevent the real Assyrian king, for example, from being harmed, a substitute would be dressed up and ultimately offered as a sacrifice “for the evil fate that was destined for the true king”, explained Sarah Graff , a curator in the Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

According to Aveni at Colgate University, there is a tendency to view people in the past as being less intelligent or more superstitious about eclipses than people today. “But in every case, it’s an occasion to have a conversation,” he told Al Jazeera.

For instance, people made noise in the ancient Andean world during an eclipse “to alert the sun not to believe what the moon is whispering in his ear, which is that we people that live down here on Earth do bad things at night”, Aveni said. “This becomes an occasion to have a discussion about lying – that’s really what it’s about.”

Can you watch a total solar eclipse without glasses?

Experts stress that safety is critical.

During the brief time in which the moon completely blocks out the sun, people can view the total eclipse with their naked eye.

But during the partial eclipse before and after totality, you should use specially designed, protective solar glasses or a handheld solar viewing device.

“If people look without the proper protection, they run the risk of injuring their eyes,” said B Ralph Chou , president of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

“And if they get an injury, depending on how often and how long they look at the sun without the protection, they do have a substantial risk of developing a permanent loss of vision.”

This risk is due to a number of factors such as the intensity and radiation of the sun’s light, as well as the absence of pain receptors in the eye, which makes it easier to stare for too long.

Compared with a regular day, pupils may also be less dilated during an eclipse, making the bright light that enters more dangerous. “It’s like being in the dark, when all of a sudden, someone just flashes a flashlight in front of your eyes”, Ndao, the NASA eclipse ambassador, said.

How are people preparing?

Cities and towns across the path of totality have been distributing eclipse glasses to residents in the weeks leading up to Monday’s event. Museums, science centres and other institutions are holding viewing parties.

Schools in the US and Canada have announced closures on Monday to allow students to participate in eclipse-watching events. The closures also aim to avoid safety issues, as schools have raised concerns that the total eclipse coincides with school dismissal times.

Groups of people are also flying in private planes to watch the totality, said Barbara Gruber, assistant director of education and public outreach at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) in the US.

While this is permitted, the US Federal Aviation Authority has put out safety advisories about flying during totality.

Are you guaranteed to see the total eclipse if you’re in the path of totality?

Unfortunately not. Weather conditions will play an important factor in what hopeful eclipse-watchers will be able to see on Monday.

In other words, if it’s cloudy, that could ruin the visibility.

If you’re not in North America, several institutions will be hosting live coverage of the total eclipse, including NASA .

How often does a total solar eclipse happen?

While Monday may be the last time the US sees an eclipse for at least another nine years, a total solar eclipse generally occurs every 18 months.

Many total eclipses are only visible at sea and may not be seen by anyone at all, according to Ndao.

Additionally, once a particular area experiences a total eclipse, it may not see the return of the phenomenon for hundreds of years.

“On average a single location will experience a total solar eclipse about every 350 years, but averages can be misleading and some lucky places will get an eclipse in just a few years”, Gruber told Al Jazeera.

When is the next total solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will take place on August 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. Almost exactly a year later, on August 2, 2027, one will be visible from northern Africa, Gibraltar, and the Saudi peninsula.

In the US, the next total eclipse will occur in 2033 but will only be visible from Alaska.

Western Canada, Montana and North Dakota will witness a total eclipse in 2044 and, the following year, people in the US will be able to see a total eclipse from coast to coast, according to NRAO.

Experts say a day will come, however, when total eclipses will stop occurring altogether – but not for quite a while.

As the universe expands with the moon moving further away from the Earth each year, and the sun gets bigger, the moon will eventually become too small in the sky to block the whole sun.

That day is still a distant reality though. A NASA study in 2017 estimated that total eclipses would end in 563 million years.

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See how the eclipse transformed America, city by city

For weeks, if not months, those who have seen one repeated to anyone who would listen: There’s nothing like experiencing the totality of a solar eclipse.

For some of them, this was a second time in six and a half years experiencing the eerie calm when the moon passes in front of the sun, at least for a few minutes. And yet, they were just as awestruck.

For others, it was a likely last opportunity to witness such a celestial phenomenon for two decades. It inspired gasps and smiles, solemnity and excitement.

Here is how it looked as the moon’s shadow crossed three countries and 13 U.S. states, with the time of totality in Eastern time.

El Salto, MX

2:10 — 2:14 p.m.

Uvalde, tex., 2:29 — 2:33 p.m., russellville, ark., 2:50 — 2:54 p.m., carbondale, ill., 2:59 — 3:03 p.m., bloomington, ind., 3:04 — 3:08 p.m., tiffin, ohio, 3:11 — 3:15 p.m., littleton, maine, 3:32 — 3:35 p.m..

Time of totality

El salto, mexico.

A group of professors and students traveled from the United States to El Salto to conduct the most thorough experiment ever using an eclipse to test Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity. Einstein’s idea held that the massive sun would bend the light of surrounding stars more than previously estimated, proving that matter can pull and warp space and time.

The researchers used five telescopes to measure that effect more closely than ever, measuring stars that appear so close to the sun’s edge they can only be viewed during an eclipse.

After a countdown in Spanish, the sun darkened, and the data collection began. “TOTALITY,” yelled Sam Jeffe, a third-year physics major at Willamette University as it appeared in the telescopes’ lenses. “And it’s clear!”

Researchers will feed the data into the computer program, which will analyze the position of the stars and determine how the sun bent the light around them. But, for now, more than half the battle was done.

2:27 — 2:31 p.m.

Eagle pass, tex..

On U.S. soil, totality first came into view in the border city of Eagle Pass, Tex., where a crowd gathered at a football field erupted into cheers as the skies darkened above them.

A singer crooned, “I’m walking on sunshine!” People put on protective glasses and craned their necks toward the sky. Many began to clap.

Vita Garza Flores, 76, traveled from Northern California to see the eclipse in the city where she was born. She brought her daughter and brother along with her.

She grabbed her eclipse glasses, positioning them across her sunglasses: “Wow!”

Students from Uvalde High School were also among the citizen scientists using the eclipse to learn more about the sun and its effects on Earth.

They joined Southwest Texas Junior College’s STEM club in participating in a program known as the Citizen Continental-America Telescope Eclipse. Called Citizen CATE, it will combine short videos of the eclipse taken via telescope into an hour-long movie that NASA says will detail magnetic structure within the sun’s corona and reveal its density. That will help scientists to measure the strength of the solar wind — charged particles that can disrupt electricity grids and produce auroras when they reach Earth.

In Russellville, NASA gathered scientists and broadcast the eclipse’s progress live online. Tourists gathered there, too, wearing T-shirts that declared, “I got mooned at the eclipse.”

A jazz band from Arkansas Tech University played. NASA hosted workshops and Q&A sessions with scientists, at least one of whom has been to space: Among the visitors were Mike Massimino, a veteran of NASA space flight missions to upgrade the Hubble Space Telescope in 2002 and 2009.

Carbondale, Ill., earned the title of “eclipse crossroads of America,” having fallen in the path of totality for a 2017 solar eclipse as well as the event on Monday. This time, at least, the skies were clear for totality, and a full stadium of eclipse fans burst into collective screams when the moment came.

“This is so much better than 2017,” a one commentator on NASA’s live broadcast noted. “It’s so much darker than 2017.”

To many of those who experienced it, the eclipse was a spiritual event. In Bloomington, Buddhist monks marked it with a puja ceremony, a “ritual honoring and promoting inner and planetary healing,” according to the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center.

Eclipse watchers flocked to Yellowwood Lake where they could experience the eclipse in nature.

When the last pulses of the sun’s rays make their way to Earth before an eclipse enters totality, they appear like a brilliant diamond set on a golden ring. In Tiffin, that meant a chance for some “unforgettable” weddings at an event called “Elope at the Eclipse.”

3:18 — 3:21 p.m.

Niagara falls, n.y..

Crowds flocked to landmarks across the path of totality for a memorable view. At Niagara Falls, despite a thick blanket of clouds, people gathered on the banks of the Niagara River and trained their phone cameras toward the sky. Streetlights turned on, if only briefly, when darkness descended.

The moon’s shadow reached North America at the beaches of Mazatlan, Mexico, just after 2:07 p.m. Eastern time. Just about 90 minutes later, it crossed the wilderness of northern Maine, on its way toward Canada, and then, the North Atlantic.

A total solar eclipse will next dim communities in the contiguous United States in 2044, but only in parts of Montana and the Dakotas. The country will have to wait one more year for the next coast-to-coast phenomenon, a total eclipse that will stretch from California to Florida on Aug. 12, 2045. It will be a Saturday.

About this story

Design and development by Stephanie Hays. Photo editing by Olivier Laurent. Design editing by Chloe Meister and Matt Callahan. Text editing by Katie Zezima. Graphics by Emily Eng. Video editing by John Farrell and Josh Carroll. Text by Scott Dance, Kasha Patel, Arelis R. Hernández and Joel Achenbach.