20 Reasons to Visit Central America This Year (2023 Updated)

Are you looking for a vacation destination that has it all? Do you want to experience different cultures, landscapes, and activities without breaking the bank? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should consider Central America as your next holiday destination.

Central America is a region that lies between Mexico and South America. It consists of seven countries:

Guatemala

Learn More

Costa Rica

Learn More

Belize

Learn More

El Salvador

Learn More

Honduras

Learn More

Nicaragua

Learn More

Each country has its unique charm, culture, and natural beauty, making Central America a diverse and fascinating destination for travelers.

Whether you are looking for stunning beaches, lush rainforests, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, or delicious food, you will find something to suit your taste and budget in Central America.

In this article, we will explore some of the main reasons why you should visit Central America and what you can expect from this amazing region.

Planning a Trip to Central America?
Check Out These Helpful Services:

The Diversity of Central America

One of the main reasons why Central America is perfect for a vacation is the diversity of this region. It offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in culture, nature, or both. You can explore different countries, each with its history, traditions, cuisine, and attractions.

You can also enjoy a variety of landscapes and wildlife, from mountains, lakes, and rivers to rainforests and islands, to coral reefs and mangroves.

Encounter a rich diversity of flora and fauna, from colorful birds and butterflies, exotic fruits and flowers, to monkeys and sloths, Central America is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Different Countries, Different Cultures

One of the best ways to experience the diversity of Central America is to visit different countries and learn about their cultures. Each country has its unique identity, influenced by indigenous, colonial, and modern history.

Discover the ancient civilizations of the Maya, and marvel at their impressive pyramids, temples, and cities. You can also learn about the Spanish conquest and colonization period, and how it shaped the religion, language, and architecture of the region.

Witness the contemporary culture of Central America, and how it reflects the diversity, creativity, and resilience of its people.

Some of the cultural highlights of Central America include:

• Belize: The only English-speaking country in the region, and it has a diverse population of Creole, Maya, Garifuna, Mestizo, and other ethnic groups. You can enjoy the vibrant music, and the cuisine of these cultures, and visit the largest barrier reef in the area.

• Costa Rica: This country is known for its eco-friendly and peaceful approach to life, you can experience the “pura vida” (pure life) philosophy of the Costa Ricans, and admire their stunning natural beauty, from volcanoes and waterfalls to cloud forests and beaches.

• El Salvador: The smallest and most densely populated country in Central America, it has a rich history of art, literature, and social movements. Explore the colonial and modern architecture of its capital, San Salvador, and visit the museums, galleries, and monuments that showcase its cultural heritage.

• Guatemala: The heart of the Maya civilization, and it has the largest indigenous population in Central America. You can immerse yourself in the colorful and diverse traditions of the Maya, and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Tikal and Antigua, two of the most beautiful and historic places in the region.

• Honduras: A country of contrasts, where you can find ancient ruins, colonial towns, and modern cities. Enjoy the natural wonders of Honduras, from the Copán archaeological site, Lake Yojoa, to the Bay Islands, where you can snorkel and dive in the world’s second-largest coral reef.

• Nicaragua: The largest and least developed country in Central America, it has a turbulent and fascinating history of revolution and resistance, where you can learn about the Sandinista movement and the Contra war, visit the cultural and political landmarks of Managua, León, and Granada. Or experience the natural beauty of Nicaragua, like Ometepe Island, the Masaya Volcano, and the Corn Islands.

• Panama: The bridge between Central and South America, a melting pot of cultures, from Afro-Caribbean to Chinese, Jewish, and American. Witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, and explore the cosmopolitan and multicultural vibe of Panama City. You can also discover the pristine and diverse nature of the country, like the Coiba National Park, and the San Blas Islands.

A Variety of Landscapes and Wildlife

Another way to experience the diversity of Central America is to enjoy the different landscapes and wildlife this region offers.

Central America is a land of contrasts, where you can find mountains, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, rainforests, islands, and more.

You can also encounter a rich diversity of flora and fauna, from colorful birds and butterflies to monkeys and sloths, and more.

The region is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, with over 200 islands and cays, is where you can explore and see a variety of marine life, from fish, and corals, to sharks, and rays.
• Costa Rica has over 25% of its land area protected as national parks and reserves, visit a cloud forest or a volcano and check out the wildlife, like hummingbirds, sloths, monkeys, and jaguars.

• El Salvador is home to the El Imposible National Park, a tropical dry forest with steep canyons, hot springs, and ponds, where you can see wildlife like pumas, anteaters, and armadillos.
• In Guatemala, you can find Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the most impressive Mayan ruins in the region. Volcan Tajumulco which is the highest point in Central America and Lake Atitlan, a beautiful lake surrounded by volcanoes and Mayan villages.

• Honduras hosts the Bay Islands, one of the best snorkeling spots in Central America, where you can spot a lot of different marine life.
• The largest lake in the region is situated in Nicaragua, Lake Nicaragua, where you can explore the Ometepe Island, a volcanic island in the middle. The country is also home to the Masaya Volcano and the Corn Islands.

• In Panama, you can visit the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO Site and world-class diving spot, or the Darién Gap, The Panama Canals, and the San Blas Islands.

The Affordability of Central America

Another reason why Central America is perfect for a vacation is the affordability of this region. Central America is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the world, where you can enjoy a high quality of life and travel without spending a fortune.

You can save money on the cost of living and traveling, as well as on the activities and attractions that you can do in the region.

Low Cost of Living and Traveling

Central America has a lower cost of living than most countries in North America and Europe, and you can find cheap and comfortable accommodation, food, and transportation options.

Stay in hostels, guesthouses, or VRBO rentals, and pay as little as $10 to $20 per night for a private room.

You can also eat local and delicious food, like tamales, pupusas, gallo pinto, or ceviche, and pay as little as $1 to $5 per meal.

The prices for getting around will depend a lot on the distance and which transport you choose, but you can pay as little as $1 to $10 or more per trip.

Some of the cheapest countries to live and travel in Central America include:

• Nicaragua: Nicaragua is the cheapest country in Central America, and you can travel comfortably with a budget of $20 or even less per day, depending on your activities, accommodation, and transport.
• Guatemala: Another cheap country in the region, is Guatemala, you can travel comfortably with a budget of $25 to $35 per day.
• El Salvador: El Salvador is also a cheap country in Central America, you travel “comfortably” with a budget of $30 to $40 per day.

Note: I don’t encourage saving money on transportation, or getting extremely affordable accommodations, since that can lead to safety issues in some areas. This is just an example, in comparison to other holiday destinations, Central America is a lot more affordable.

Budget-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Central America has a lot of free or low-cost things to do and see, from natural wonders to cultural sites, to fun adventures.

Explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Central America, and do activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, or surfing.

You can also visit the historical and cultural sites of the region, and learn about the ancient and modern civilizations that shaped this region. Or you can also have fun and adventure and do activities like zip-lining, rafting, or bungee jumping on its many rainforests.

A lot of Adventure Activities

One of the main reasons to visit Central America is the adventure of this region. It is a land of fun and excitement, where you can find a lot of thrilling and memorable activities to do.

You can enjoy the outdoor activities that the region offers, from zip-lining and rafting, to hiking and camping, and more.

Pair that with a visit to the amazing historical and cultural sites like pyramids, temples, or ruins and you have a holiday filled with excitement.

Thrilling Outdoor Activities

There are endless outdoor activities that this region has to offer since the region has endless natural attractions that are ideal for adrenaline seekers, like volcanoes, waterfalls, rivers, and lakes.

One day you can be hiking to the top of a volcano and the other day doing a canopy tour and zip-lining through the forest, or rafting in a river.

Some of the thrilling outdoor activities in Central America include:

• Belize is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as for cave tubing, floating through the underground rivers and caves of the country.
• Costa Rica is a great destination for surfing and rafting, and you can paddle through the rapids and currents of the rivers. You can also do zip lining, canopy tours, and leap from a bridge over the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

• El Salvador is a great destination for hiking, you can climb the volcanoes and mountains, or do paragliding, and soar over the landscapes and towns,
• Guatemala is a great destination for hiking too, exploring ancient Mayan ruins like El Mirador, or climbing volcanoes. You can also do rock climbing, camping, kayaking or take a dip in a lake or hot spring.

• Honduras is great for diving in the Bay Islands, a top-class spot. You can also do canopy tours, and swing from tree to tree in the rainforests or do fishing.
• Nicaragua is great for volcano boarding, slide down the slopes of the Cerro Negro Volcano, or do some sailing, and cruising along the Lake Nicaragua and Ometepe Island.

• Panama is amazing for snorkeling, and spotting the colorful and diverse fish and corals of the Coiba National Park and the San Blas Islands. You can also do skydiving, and jump from a plane over the Panama Canal and Panama City.

Amazing Historical and Cultural Sites

This region has a rich and diverse history and culture, influenced by its indigenous, colonial, and modern civilizations.

You can see the ancient and impressive monuments and buildings of the Maya, and the Spanish. It’s also a good place to learn about contemporary, vibrant culture and art, and how it reflects the diversity, and creativity, of its people.

Across the region, you’ll find several archeological sites, Guatemala is the main place to check out the ancient culture of the Maya. Belize is also a good place to spot several Mayan ruins.

On the other hand, there’s a strong presence of cultural sites dating back to colonization times, where you can enjoy interesting architecture, churches, and convents.

The Safety of Central America

While some countries of the region have gained a “violent” reputation, I can confidently say you can visit most of the region without issues.

Central America is a land of peace, there are crimes, yes, and the biggest issue is theft but you can avoid most of it using your common sense.

In this region you can find friendly and welcoming people, you can interact with the locals and learn about their culture, customs, and values.

Friendly and Welcoming People

The people in Central America are known for their hospitality, kindness, and generosity, they will make you feel at home.

Chat with the locals and learn about their stories, opinions, and useful tips. You can also join the locals and participate in their festivals, celebrations, and traditions or ask them for help and guidance, they will be happy to assist you.

📖 Recommended Reading: If you’re looking for more useful information, check out Essential Tips to Avoid Pickpocketing While Traveling.

Peaceful Countries

Many countries in the region have overcome their past of violence, crime, and conflict, and have achieved peace and stability in recent years.

You can travel around Central America without worrying about conflict. So, make sure to respect the laws and regulations of the country you decide to visit and avoid any trouble or danger.

Some of the stable and peaceful countries in Central America include:

• Costa Rica: Costa Rica is one of the most stable and safest countries in Central America, with a high level of human development, the country has a good reputation for its environmental and social policies. Costa Rica is a safe and friendly country to visit, and you can enjoy its eco-friendly and peaceful approach to life.

• Panama: Panama is another safe country in Central America, and it has a strong and stable economy, thanks to its strategic location and its famous Panama Canal. Panama is also a democracy with a high level of human development, and it has a good reputation for its multicultural and cosmopolitan society. Panama is a safe and modern country to visit, and you can enjoy its engineering and innovation.

• Belize: Belize is also a peaceful country in Central America, and a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, and it has a good relationship with its neighbors and allies. Overall a safe and cheerful country to visit, and you can enjoy its diversity and community.

A Convenient Region

Central America is a land of easy access and transportation, where you can find convenient and comfortable ways to travel and explore.

You can also travel without any language barrier or visa hassle, in places like Belize and enjoy a smooth and hassle-free trip.

Easy Access and Transportation

Central America is a relatively small and compact region, and you can easily travel from one country to another, or from one attraction to another, in a short time.

You can also find convenient transportation options, from flights, and local buses, to shuttles, and taxis, or rental cars, that suit your budget and preference.

No Visa Hassle in Several Countries

Central America is a region you can visit without worrying too much about visa requirements. You can travel with a valid passport, and enter and exit the different countries in Central America, without applying for a visa or paying a fee.

Passport is the only document that you need to travel to and within Central America, and you can enter and exit the different countries of Central America, without applying for a visa or a fee, if you are a citizen of the United States, Canada, or the European Union.

All you need is a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and have enough blank pages for the stamps and stickers.

Note: Take a look at the government website of the country you want to visit, since requirements may vary.

Is Central America Kid-Friendly?

Yes, Central America is a very kid-friendly region. You can explore most of it with kids without hassle, of course, taking a different approach.

Here are some reasons why Central America is kid-friendly:

Kid Friendly Locals

For some reason, people in these countries seem to love kids. 90% of the population gives kids an amazing treatment.

Most of hotels and restaurants are very accommodating when they see that you or your little one need something special.

Hotels

In this part of the world, you can find anything from all-inclusive resorts to small boutique hotels and even vacation rentals.

As I mentioned earlier staff in most hotels will help you with anything you might need to make your kids comfortable.

Attractions

Many of the main natural and cultural attractions in Central America accept kids. In the case of using a tour company, they even have special equipment and everything planned to take people with kids.

There are also places dedicated to kids where they can learn about the country in a fun way, like kid’s museums, or interactive playgrounds.

Animals

Central America is a region known for being home to many exotic animals, like El Quetzal bird from Guatemala.

So what could be better than taking the kids along to explore their habitats and seeing them in the wild?

Ancient Cultures

South of Mexico and the northern portion of Central America were once home to one of the most influential cultures in human history, the Mayas.

Now you can still see the remains of their enormous cities and learn about the modern Maya that are still around, and most of those archeological sites are kid-friendly.

Visiting these sites is a fun way for families to spend a vacation while learning.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Central America:

What is the best time to visit Central America?

The best time to visit Central America depends on your preferences. Still, generally, the dry season (from November to April) is the most popular and comfortable time to visit, as it has less rain, humidity, and fewer mosquitoes.

However, the dry season is also the most crowded and expensive time to visit, as it coincides with the high season and the holidays.

The wet season (from May to October) is the least popular and comfortable time to visit since it has more rain.

The wet season is also the least crowded time to visit since it’s the low season. This season does have some advantages, like greener scenery, cooler temperatures, and more wildlife.

What are the best tips to travel in Central America?

The best tips to travel in Central America are:

• Plan and book in advance, to get the best deals and avoid the hassle
• Pack light and smart, to save space and money
• Travel with a valid passport and check the visa requirements, to avoid any trouble or delay;
• Learn some basic Spanish and English, to communicate and interact with the locals and the travelers
• Respect the laws and the customs, to stay safe and avoid any offense.

Reasons to visit Central America: Conclusion

Central America is a perfect destination for a vacation, whether you are traveling alone, with friends, or as a family. It has many reasons to prove it.

It’s a region that offers diversity, affordability, adventure, safety, and convenience and has something for everyone.

You can explore different countries, cultures, landscapes, and wildlife while enjoying a variety of activities, attractions, and experiences. Not only that, it’s also an affordable place to visit, you can do a lot more with your money than in other places.

Central America is a region you don’t want to miss, and it will give you and your family a memorable vacation.

Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission for any purchases made through the links. Your trust is important to us, and we ensure that all products or services we recommend meet or exceed our editorial standards.