Let’s see if I can guess what you’re thinking… I think you’re thinking about what are the best places to visit in Central America before you die? Ah, well, I think that was a lucky guess since you clicked on this article. So why are you curious about Central America?
Could it be for the miles and miles of pristine and gorgeous beaches that they hold? Or maybe you’re up for exploring incredible ancient ruins, learning about the history, and seeing relics from thousands of years ago. Are you a hiker? Do you hope to scale some of the volcanoes that Central America holds? Perhaps you want to do a whole lot of nothing. Just chill on an island and soak up the sun rays all day. Maybe getting in the water and snorkeling or diving is more your thing. Perhaps you want to explore the many marine creatures and slice through the clear blue waters. Maybe historical churches and landmarks are your thing, or the incredible flora and fauna. The cosmopolitan cities? The delicious food? What is it? Why are you interested in Central America? Ah, I get it! Maybe you’re not interested yet, and are looking for reasons to go. You don’t know enough about it and you’re curious to get to know this area.
If you’re questioning the safety, there’s nothing to worry about. Just like there are plenty of beautiful and safe places to visit in Mexico, the rest of Central America is the same. There’s of course crime, just like there is in your city, but generally speaking, many places in Central America are beautiful and safe, and around the world!
So fret not on your safety, and start thinking about when you will be to visit all these spots in Central America. Seven places aren’t enough, but let’s start there and see where we can go…
7. Leon, Nicaragua
Despite the crumbling colonial buildings, this charming city is a must visit while in Nicaragua. Churches and cathedrals, fantastic food, fun nightlife, and an eccentric art scene makes this spot an energetic and lively city to explore for a few days.
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6. Bay Islands, Honduras
So you can’t make it to the Great Barrier Reef yet, but the second best place is right here. The Mesoamerican Reef is the second largest barrier reef on earth. I hope you’re ready to dive, because there’s no other way to see this phenomenal spot. Culture, sandy streets, cheap living, and marine life exploring, what more do you want?
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5. Ruta de las Flores, El Salvador
This vibrant colonial town is teeming with activities. Nature lover? Well, go chase some waterfalls, ride on a horse, go mountain biking, or hiking. The artsy fartsy person? There are plenty of art galleries, and if you’re a foodie, you’re in luck. There are weekly food festivals with indigenous goodies to nosh on. If you’re a coffee lover, make your way to the country’s first coffee plantation for a perk up.
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4. Lago de Atitlán, Guatemala
Adorable villas set on rolling green hills along a lake is what will captivate you the second you see this place. What a gorgeous chill spot this town is. Here’s where you can lay low and enjoy the peaceful and serene beauty that’s all around. Encompassed by mythical volcanoes, the locals go about their daily routine in their bright garb. Here, you can just be.
3. The Hummingbird Highway, Belize
Instead of an actual city, this is a highway that will take you passed miles and miles of breathtaking scenery around every bend. Where to stop off at? The Blue Hole is a sapphire swimming hole that was created when a roof caved; it’s an incredible sight to see. You can also stop at the Cave’s Branch to do some cave tubing and see the Mayan ceremonial chambers containing relics and bones from centuries ago.
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2. Panama City, Panama
Are you in need of city life? Here you go! The skyline here is impressive and sits along the bay. Many people moved into the swankier living situations in the sky rises and left Casco Viejo to crumble it’s colonial facade away, but now it’s getting revamped and it’s up and coming with some fantastic nightlife and cool cafes.
And, the best place to visit in Central America before you die is: Arenal Route, Costa Rica
Another route for you to take with lots to see. Arenal’s smoking summit will be in the distance of most of your stay in the area. Lush green slopes, charming villages, art galleries, happening coffee shops, lakes and nature activities can be enjoyed here.
There are so many incredible places to visit in Central America before you die, which are you flocking to first? This list is by far not exhaustive of the cool places you can find yourself in Central America, but I hope it starts you off on an adventurous path to discover more of this region.
