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Central America holidays: Take a walk on the wild side
Central America is one of the most exciting, vibrant and beautiful regions on the planet. It may be small, but it packs a serious punch. From the warm, sunny beaches of the Caribbean to the windswept, rugged Pacific coast, this area is full of things to see and do. An abundance of wildlife, a welcoming Latin culture and a wealth of breathtaking scenery all make Central America well worth a visit.
All about Central America: The traveller's guide
Central America is an increasingly popular choice for travellers in search of adventure holidays. This long, thin region connects North and South America, beginning on the southern border of Mexico. It's an area rich with incredible sights, including ancient Mayan ruins, lush tropical rainforests and some of the world's best beaches.
The countries of Central America
Belize: The only country in the region that does not speak Spanish, Belize has a unique culture. It is known for superb scuba diving and snorkelling.
Costa Rica: Famous for its incredible natural beauty, Costa Rica has amazing rainforests where native species of wildlife are protected.
Panama: With lush rainforests and the world-famous Panama Canal, this vibrant country is becoming more popular as a destination.
Guatemala: A good choice for history fans, Guatemala has ancient Mayan cities and old colonial architecture.
Nicaragua: This country boasts an impressive volcanic landscape and excellent surfing.
Honduras: The Caribbean coast of Honduras has some of the region's most beautiful beaches.
El Salvador: Adventurous travellers can tackle the hiking trails dotted around El Salvador's many volcanoes.
Popular destinations in Central America
Some parts of Central America are notorious for organised crime and other dangers. However, there are other places with great tourist facilities that are ideal for a holiday. Costa Rica and Belize have the longest-established tourist industries in the region. Both these countries offer scenic rainforests and gorgeous beaches. Here's a taste of what you can expect:
A trip to Costa Rica
Like many countries in Central America, Costa Rica borders both the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean. The two sides of the country are quite distinct: the Caribbean coast has warm water that's perfect for water sports, while the Pacific coast offers wild, rugged scenery and opportunities for whale-watching. Costa Rica is well-known for its wildlife conservation. In its many national parks, you can see sloths, sea turtles, monkeys and many species of native birds.
A trip to Belize
Belize, a former British colony, has spellbinding natural wonders and intriguing historical sites sure to dazzle you. Visit the ATM Cave, where the ancient Mayans carried out human sacrifice. Explore the Mayan ruins at Xunantunich and Caracol, once thriving towns. Belize is also well-known for its snorkelling and scuba diving. The Great Blue Hole, an enormous underwater sinkhole, attracts visitors from around the world.
Central America off the beaten track
Other Central American countries are slowly developing their own tourist industries. If you're considering a trip to one of these nations, make sure to plan carefully. You can have a unique adventure, just take care. You may want to stick to established areas. For example, the island of Roatán in Honduras is now a popular destination for beach holidays, but other parts of the country can be dangerous for travellers. Here are some destinations in Central America you may not have considered:
Adventurous destinations in Central America
Panama offers fascinating tours of the Panama Canal. Its capital, Panama City, has a vibrant music scene. Eco-tourism is growing, and you can even rent out a private island.
Tourism in Guatemala is on the rise. A lot of the country's most interesting destinations can be found around Lake Atitlán, a lake set high in a volcanic crater and surrounded by Mayan ruins.
Nicaragua doesn't have many luxury resorts, but it's an interesting option for travellers in search of adventure. The rugged, volcanic landscapes are perfect for keen hikers, while the Pacific Coast offers fabulous surfing.
Discover the best destinations in Central America. Lose yourself in the jungles of Costa Rica, explore Guatemala's mysterious ancient ruins or go scuba diving in the coral reefs of Belize. Check out our amazing deals on flights and hotels in Central America, and book your trip today!
Central America holiday FAQs
Q: What is the best month to visit Central America?
A: The dry season in Central America runs from December to April. You can expect more crowds in December and again during the spring break period in March and April, so visit in January or February for a quieter time. Alternatively, shoulder seasons from May to June and again in November have unpredictable weather but fewer crowds. Avoid the height of the rainy season in September and October.
Q: What is the safest country in Central America to visit?
A: Costa Rica is widely considered the safest country in Central America. It has low crime rates, a thriving tourist industry and a peaceful atmosphere, thanks to its policy of not having an army. Aside from Costa Rica, Belize and Panama are among the safest countries in the region.
Q: What is the cheapest country to visit in Central America?
A: The cheapest countries to visit in Central America include Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala. If you're travelling to one of these countries, it's best to go as part of an organised tour or stay in an all-inclusive resort. They are developing nations, and they can be dangerous for travellers who stray outside well-established tourist areas.
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