Central America connects the North American and South American continents. This
region is notable for its dense forests, volcanoes, beaches, lakes, and Mayan ruins.
Most countries recognize the value of tourism and are quickly developing this industry.
However, the unhurried pace and affordability of the region, along with its vast natural
resources are quickly expanding tourism. Many of the countries in Central America devote
significant portions of their country to wildlife refuges and protected national parks.
The Mayans occupied Central America, sometimes called Meso-America, and many ruins have
been discovered. Most ruins are found within national parks. Beaches on the Caribbean
and Pacific side are unspoilt, picturesque, and economical. The longest coral reef in
the Western Hemisphere is found in Central America. Additionally, several world renowned
surfing beaches are located in Central America. The cities exhibit a charm reminiscent
of their Spanish colonial past.
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TRAVEL TO BELIZE
Belize was a former
a British colony is unique in two aspects: it is the only country in Central America
whose official language is English, and it is also the only country without any Pacific
Beaches. Belize has increasingly recognized its diverse ecology on land and sea. Almost
37% of the country is devoted to protected areas and, as a result, eco tourism is
flourishing in Belize. The worlds' only jaguar reserve is located in Belize, Cockscomb
Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Visit Crooked Tree Wildlife Reserve to
see howler monkeys, crocodiles, turtles, and bird watch. Divers come to Belize for the
longest living barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. Visit St. Sherman's Blue
Hole National Park to dive the Blue Hole, a vivid blue sinkhole
considered one of the best dive spots in the world. Other available marine adventures
include snorkeling, windsurfing, manatee watching, swimming with sharks, and canoeing
with crocodiles. Quite a few valuable Mayan ruins exist in Belize. Mayan sites worth
visiting include Caracol, Lamanai, Altun Ha
, Lubaantun, Xunantunich, along with many others. Belize
holds many interesting caves. Caving locations include Rio Frio Cave,
Che Chem Ha Cave, the Blue Creek Cave, and many others.
TRAVEL TO COSTA RICA
Costa Rica: has the
highest literacy rate in Latin America and is world renowned for its eco tourism. Geographically,
Costa Rica contains a little bit of everything. There are volcanoes, beautiful lakes,
mountain areas, rivers, beaches on the Atlantic and Pacific coast, and spectacular interior
rainforests and nature preserves. A significant expatriate community of Americans, Canadians,
Germans, English, and many others has developed outside the capitol of San Jose.
When in San Jose, visit the Museum of Pre-Columbian Gold, the Jade
Museum, the National Museum, and many others.
Currently, over 800 species of birds have been identified in Costa Rica. Visiting any of
the numerous Nature Reserves and Parks affords the opportunity for bird watching.
Corcovado National Park has been called 'the most biologically intense
place on Earth' by National Geographic. Corcovado contains over 400 species of birds, 140
types of mammals, and a variety of flora. Other popular parks include Monteverde
Biological Cloud Preserve, considered the best location to see a quetzal
(tropical bird). Also visit Tortuguero National Park, Rincón
de la Vieja, and many others.
Adventure trips include visiting Arenal volcano (an active volcano), whitewater
rafting on Reventazón (Class 3) and Pacuare (Class 4), and
sport fishing off the Pacific Coast.
TRAVEL TO EL SALVADOR
El Salvador: is the
smallest country in the Americas, sometimes referred to as 'the Tom Thumb of America', and
also the most densely populated country in Central America. El Salvador is very poor, almost
35% live in poverty, and crime is very high. Travelers should exercise caution at all times.
Carry small bills and be aware. However, bargains are available. El Salvador is a very
economical country in which travel. El Salvador has 25 volcanoes, many crater lakes, and
a few National parks. Primarily, El Salvador is gaining a worldwide reputation for its
excellent beaches and world class surfing. Eco tourism opportunities exist, however they
are limited. Visit the Montecristo Cloud Forest to see wildlife including
puma, spider monkey, and toucans. The rare black hawk eagle can be found in the El
Imposible National Park. Visit Joya de Cerén, called 'the Pompeii
of the Americas', to see a pre-Columbian farming village that was buried under ash when Loma
Caldera erupted in 590AD. Joya de Cerén is a UNESCO world heritage site.
Visit the Santa Ana Volcano which is still active, and Lake Coatepeque. Lake Coatepeque offers
nearby water sport opportunities including diving, kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Hot Springs
are also located nearby. Many rivers offer white water rafting including the Paz River, Bandera,
Lempa, Guayjoyo, and Sumpul. Visit the La Libertad area for the best surfing beaches. El
Sunzal Beach is considered one of the top 10 surfing locations in the world. Other
beaches include El Tamarindo, El Cuco, and La Barra
de Santiago.
TRAVEL TO GUATEMALA
Guatemala: is the most
populous country in Central America. After its long civil war ended in 1996 the economy has
embarked upon continuous growth. Guatemala is now a fascinating country with a solid financial
base, a unique mix of Spanish, Mayan, and Indian culture, and extensive diverse natural resources.
The country has spectacular Mayan ruins encompassing the 3 periods of Mayan culture: Pre-Classic,
Classic, and Post-Classic. Throughout Guatemala over 22 distinct Mayan dialects are still spoken.
When in Guatemala City visit the Ixchel Museum of traditional costumes
, Archaeology and Ethnology Museum, Parque Central and Cathedral
, and many others. La Antigua was the colonial Spanish capital of Central
America. This marvelous city has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site. Excursions from
this city include hiking up Volcán Acatenango, an inactive volcano, or Volcán
Pacaya, an active volcano. No trip to Guatemala is complete without visiting Tikal
, the largest of all Mayan ruins. This was a Mayan city of great importance and it is
well preserved. Make sure to visit the Tikal Visitor Center, the Tikal
Museum, or try a jungle canopy tour. Other Mayan sites include Uaxactún,
Quiriguá, Yaxhá, and Aguateca. Lake
Amatitlan is surrounded by archaeological ruins and offers many water activities.
Guatemala also has many rivers suitable for boating or white water rafting.
TRAVEL TO HONDURAS
Honduras: was previously
known as Spanish Honduras to differentiate itself from British Honduras (Belize). Honduras is
a very poor country. While tourism is recognized as a potential boon to the economy, the
infrastructure is not yet developed. The current capital is Tegucigalpa
although there is not much of interest in the town. A more interesting city is Comayagua
, the previous capital. Comayagua is a quiet town with beautiful 18th century colonial
architecture. Visit the Copán Ruins Archaeological Park and see the world
famous Copan Ruins of the Mayan Empire. Visit La Ceiba, a city on the North
Caribbean Coast. It is a great launching point to visit Pico Bonito National Park
or the Cuero y Salado Wildlife Refuge. Whitewater rafting is available on
the nearby Cangrejal River. Additionally, La Ceiba is the primary location to visit the
Bay Islands and Hog Islands. Once on the islands numerous
watersports are available including scuba diving, caving, Visit Trujillo,
where Columbus first landed in Honduras in 1502, and learn about its pirate history. The
city was established in 1524. Cavers can visit the nearby Cuyamel Caves.
TRAVEL TO NICARAGUA
Nicaragua: has rapidly
expanded tourism, which is now the second largest industry in the country. However, the
infrastructure has not yet been well developed. Nicaragua has been referred to as 'the
land of lakes and volcanoes' and has become a unique location for the traveler who wishes
to travel 'off the beaten path'. Visit Granada, the oldest colonial city
in Nicaragua to view beautiful architecture in a charming, friendly small town. In town
you can pass the day at the Central Square, among the many beautiful churches, and shopping
the local market. Nearby visit Lake Cocibolca, also known Lake Nicaragua,
this is the largest freshwater lake in Central America. The only fresh water shark in the
world can be found in Lake Cocibolca. Visit the Spanish colonial university town of
Leon. Visit the nearby ruins of Old Leon, destroyed by
an eruption of Momotombo Volcano in 1610. Trek the active Momotombo Volcano.
See spectacular panoramic views at Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve.
Visit the hot springs of Hervideros de San Jacinto heated by the Telica
volcano. Try sand skiing at the Cerro Negro volcano.
TRAVEL TO PANAMA
Panama: occupies a unique
land bridge connecting the North and South American continents. The Panama Canal was controlled
by the U.S. until its ownership was returned to Panama in 1999. The Panama Canal is one of
the most significant shipping routes in the world. When visiting Panama city take some time
to learn and explore the Panama Canal. Boat rides along the canal are available, as are
chartered yacht rides. It is possible to walk alongside the canal, or board a train ride
along the canal. Make sure to visit the Panama Canal Museum. Panama City
is divided into 3 regions: the new city, the old city, the colonial city. Panama city
combines the bustle of an international banking hub, alongside the charm of the colonial
city. The historic portion of town is Casco Viejo where many interesting
buildings and churches may be seen including the Plaza de Francia, the
San Jose Church, the Museum of the Panamanian Man, and
the Museum of Colonial Religious Art. Panama has many national parks and
reserves where opportunities abound to see natural areas. Visit the El Níspero
Botanical Gardens and have a tree canopy adventure. Visit Gamboa Tropical
Rainforest Reserve or Darién National Park to view vegetation and
wildlife. Over 950 species of birds have been registered in Panama. Soberanía National
Park offers excellent bird watching. Ride a horse to the top of Volcan Baru
, located in Baru National Park. Volcan Baru, an inactive volcano, is the
tallest mountain in Panama and the only location where you can see the Pacific and Caribbean
coasts on a clear day. Baru National Park also offers excellent bird watching opportunities.
There are many small islands off both coasts of Panama. There are many quaint hotels offering
excellent water activities. Excellent surfing is available off the Pacific Coast. Sport
fishing is available off the Pearl Islands. Taboga Island
offers beautiful beaches, diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, boating, and fishing.
