There are 7 countries that make up Central America: El Salvador, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama. So here are 7 of BackHackers’ top Hot Spots that need to be on your travel list:
La Libertad, El Salvador
The port city of La Libertad sits on the Pacific Coast of El Salvador. Head to its beaches for strong surf – the Punta Rock break is a great shout! Make sure to check out the fish market near the Malecón waterfront esplanade, and head to El Tunco beach for its black sand and strong waves. Don’t miss Walter Thilo Deininger National Park either – great for bird watching and forest trails.
La Fortuna Waterfall, Costa Rica
Head to central Costa Rica to get a glimpse of La Fortuna Waterfall. The fall itself drops roughly 75 m and sits at the base of Chato, a dormant volcano. Head here for great views and a jungle adventure to remember!
Cay Caulker, Belize
Head to the small Caribbean island of Caye Caulker, just off the coast of Belize. Check out the bar and sandy beach located in the narrow channel (The Split) that divides the island. The Belize Barrier Reef makes for a great snorkelling spot, or if you’d rather stay on land, head to the dense mangrove forest for hiking trails and bird spotting!
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Lake Atitlán sits in an absolutely huge volcanic crater based in Guatemala’s southwestern highlands. Surrounding the lake are stunning hills and pointed volcanoes, known for their Mayan villages. Head here for absolutely gorgeous views and the surrounding nature reserve, where you’ll find plenty of trails and an amazing butterfly garden.
Roatán, Honduras
The island of Roatán sits in the Caribbean, roughly 65 km off the coast of Honduras. The offshore reefs offer great eco-tourism, snorkelling and diving opportunities – where you’ll find an array of fish and turtles, as well as a lush underwater world to discover!
Corn Islands, Nicaragua
The Corn Islands comprise of 2 islands, approximately 70 km off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Head here for white sands, turquoise waters and scuba-diving opportunities not to miss!
San Blas Islands, Panama
This archipelago of islands include around 365 sandy wonders and cays – with only 49 of them being inhabited. Sitting east of the Panama Canal, they can be found along the Caribbean coast and boast some absolutely gorgeous beaches. Head here for a little taste of paradise with the islands’ white sands, lush greenery and amazing snorkelling opportunities!