Covering a smaller area of Latin America than its neighbouring South America, Central America by no means has less to offer. In fact the opposite! Bursting with superb wildlife, stunning natural beauty, fantastic beaches, delicious food, fascinating culture and friendly locals, it is a perfect choice for a backpacking adventure, whether you’ve got two weeks or several months. Read on for our top 6 destinations in Central America and start planning!
• Incredible wildlife - Search for sloths in Arenal, spot turtles in Tortuguero, whale-watch in Uvita, and look out for the Resplendent Quetzal and other amazing birdlife in Monteverde Cloud Forest.
• Adrenaline and adventure – Go white-water rafting along the Pacuare River, surf on the Pacific Coast, or zipline through the trees in Arenal or Monteverde.
• An escape to nature - Explore Costa Rica’s many national parks, including the spectacular Manuel Antonio National Park, misty cloud forests, waterfalls and impressive volcanoes.
• Relaxation - Chill on the beach, soak in Arenal’s thermal hot springs, practice yoga and embrace ‘pura vida’.
• Delicious food and drink - Think tacos, tortillas and tequila!
• Day of the Dead – Take part in this meaningful celebration of Día de los Muertos dedicated to remembering our ancestors.
• Culture and history – Explore the charming towns of San Cristóbal de las Casas, Puebla, Valladolid, and Oaxaca as well as the bustling metropolis of Mexico City. Discover the fascinating Mayan Ruins of Palenque and Chichén Itza.
• Superb beaches - Head to the towns of Puerto Escondido and Mazunte on the Pacific Coast for laidback vibes, turtles, great surf and gorgeous sunsets or head to Tulum, Isla Holbox, Bacalar on the Caribbean Coast for calm turquoise waters, white sand beaches and cenotes.
• Adrenaline and adventure – Hike Acatenango volcano or kayak and paddle board on Lake Atitlán.
• Culture and history – Spend time in the vibrant town of Antigua, visit the colourful Chichicastenango market or discover the fascinating Mayan ruins of Tikal.
• Natural beauty – Explore the gorgeous turquoise pools of Semuc Champey surrounded by verdant rainforest and relax on the calm waters of picturesque Lake Atitlán.
• Adrenaline and adventure – Go sandboarding down an active volcano in Léon or learn to surf on the Pacific Coast.
• Natural beauty – Known as ‘The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes’, soak up Nicaragua’s stunning scenery. Spend time on laidback Ometepe Island: chill on the island’s beaches, watch fiery sunsets, swim in waterfalls, or if you’re up for a challenge hike up one of Ometepe’s two volcanoes.
• Charming towns – Explore the colourful city of Granada and its lovely markets or visit Léon for its rich history and colonial buildings.
• Idyllic islands – Find tropical paradise on the San Blas Islands or Bocas del Toro. You can even embark on a sailing adventure through the San Blas Islands from Panama to Colombia or vice versa!
• Natural beauty – Explore misty cloud forest in Boquete and mountain views and volcanoes of the Panama highlands.
• Culture & history – Learn about the history of the impressive Panama Canal and discover the melting pot of old and new in Panama City.
• Slow paced island life – kick back and relax on charming Caye Caulker, eat delicious lobster, and enjoy drinks at the Lazy Lizard.
• Incredible diving at the Blue Hole.
/hannahf/$FILE/hannahf-lg.jpg)
Hannah Farmery
Partner Marketing Executive
Hannah is a Partner Marketing Executive in our Kensington head office.
©2026 Trailfinders Ltd. | Reg No. 1004502 | Terms Of Use | Privacy Policy
