The Wander Buzz

Nestled between North and South America sits a hub of paradise. Central America is host to seven countries; Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. Each country beautifully unique and offering a splendor of excitement, you will not only fall in love with their stunning beauty, but will leave each place fully immersed in their rich culture with a craving for more.

If you didn’t already know why it should be your next destination, here are 7 Reasons to Travel to Central America Now.

1. Budget Friendly
2. Outstanding Nature
3. Eco Friendly
4. Delicious Authentic Food
5. Rich Culture and Tradition
6. Infinite Adventure
7. Thriving Nightlife and Prospering Cities

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1. Budget Friendly

Have you ever thought that fine dining next to a beautiful beach would break the bank? Most people have. However, when in Central America, that is not always the case.

When looking to have more bang for your buck, you’ll be surprised to know how many people forget about most of these seven countries. Sure, some lobster and steak seaside at a five star resort may cost more than a few pennies, but there are ways to have delicious meals next to a beach for less than $30 a day!

By eating chicken empanadas at a traditional soda in Costa Rica, or having delicious pupusas from a stall turned restaurant in El Salvador, your appetite will not only be satisfied, but your wallet will be rewarded with all that extra cash.

It isn’t only the food that will save you money, the endless adventures are truly the jewels that Central America has to offer. When you’re able to zip-line and white water raft with lunch and dinner included for under $200, the possibilities seem endless.

They become even more limitless when you begin to realize that flights and lodging also come at a fraction of the cost, compared to the more popular alternatives.

2. Outstanding Nature

Covered in Tropical Jungles and surrounded by beautiful beaches, it is a surprise to find that many of these countries have remained a secret for so long. With 6 out of 7 Central American countries bordering the Caribbean, you are sure to find your ideal paradise in at least one of them.

Central America is keen on preserving nature. You may find along your travels that some beaches have been closed to the public. But don’t worry, this is all for a good cause.

Efforts to increase populations of endangered species such as the leather-back sea turtle have prompted these commendable practices that teach us to build around nature instead of over it. Thus proving, that co-habitation between nature and enterprise can exist in peace.

Private tours are still offered for some of these locations, just be sure to do plenty of research before paying for a tour.

Beaches

As for the beaches that are open to the public, you’re in for a treat. Here you’ll find beautiful clean beaches with perfect waves that will make anyone a believer in paradise.

Check out some of the best surf in El Salvador, such as El Zonte and La Punta or Guanacaste region in Costa Rica. If you are looking to simply relax, Monterrico in Guatemala will surely do the trick.

Don’t forget to pack your perfect bathing suit for the infinite water activities these great beaches have to offer.

Reefs & Volcanoes

Central America is home to the second largest Barrier Reef in the world, located in Belize. It also contains the second largest Coral-reef Barrier on Earth, located in Honduras.

In addition, it is home to some of the world’s largest volcanoes, many which you may find covered in cloud forests and still active today.

Visit the smoking volcano, Fuego in Antigua, Guatemala or the Masaya Volcano in Masaya, Nicaragua. If you are still in the mood for more fiery rock formations, head to Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, Costa Rica for some perfect R&R and be sure to save time for a visit to Santa Ana and Izalco Volcanoes in El Salvador.

With an abundance of beautiful rock formations it’s no surprise that Central America would someday become one of the most coveted travel destinations in the world.

Natural Hot Springs

With volcanoes, come thermal hot springs and rich natural bodies of water. Some of which you will find pleasantly warm due to geothermal heating. Plan a day trip to one of the many hot springs spread throughout the sub-continent or simply spend a day in a cool natural pool at Semuc Champey, Guatemala where the experience will be unforgettable and the turquoise waters breathtaking.

Lakes and Rivers

Once in Guatemala, don’t miss the opportunity to see the amazing Lakes Izabal and Atitlan. Considered by many to be some of the most beautiful in the world, they are sights you cannot miss.

Then, head to the tenth largest lake in the Americas, Lake Cocibolca in Nicaragua, the perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon kayaking. Continue in your swimsuit and visit the world’s official water bridge, The Panama Canal.

Finally, when you’re in the mood for a change of scenery, end your Central American water tour with a trip to the Rio Celeste in Costa Rica. The turquoise river surrounding the natural waterfalls will make you feel as if you are in the Garden of Eden itself.

Tropical Forests & Wildlife

Lastly, who can forget Central America’s tropical Forests? From howler monkeys outside your hotel window to sloths hanging outside your restaurant and the magical Quetzal perched beautifully on a tree, it is no wonder many wanted to keep these places to themselves.

3. Eco Friendly

From recycling an old airplane and turning it into a hotel, to becoming one with its’ surroundings, this sub-continent is leading the industry with Eco friendly travel. Stay at one of the many resorts that will take your humble budget and make you feel like a King or in my case, a Queen.

Central America is becoming increasingly popular. Visit as it develops into what will soon be a mecca for tourism and skip the over crowding and price tags that come along with it. Here are a few suggestions for some of the best Eco-lodging in each Central American country.

Guatemala– Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort & Nature Reserve (A resort overlooking volcan San Pedro on Lake Atitlan)

Belize– Long Caye Resort- Adventure Island (All inclusive resort focusing on water activities and fun in the sun) visit official site www.slickrock.com

El Salvador– Arbol de Fuego Eco Hotel (Generously priced eco hotel with all amenities needed)

Nicaragua– Isleta El Espino Ecolodge (A Traveler’s choice 2019 Winner by Tripadvisor)

Honduras– Tranquilseas Resort Roatan (All inclusive Diving & Vacation Packages available)

Costa Rica– Tree House Lodge (Eco friendly with the Caribbean on one side and tropical jungles on the other)

Panama– Panama Eco Resort (Stay off the beaten path and relax, all for a great price)

4. Delicious Authentic Food

Okay, maybe it’s not customary to travel somewhere only to eat, but have you ever tasted a Pupusa? While I may not be an expert on food, I am fairly experienced in eating, just ask my mom.

Food is magical and in certain aspects, it is a representation of an entire culture. Central America boasts some of the worlds best coffee and fine cuisine on Earth. Not only are they underrated, they are under-priced.

Here are my recommendations for MUST try dishes in each nation, but don’t limit yourself to just these. Indulge, live a little and never forget to make time for a treat and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Panama

Must try Sancocho, a delicious chicken stew with vegetables in a hearty broth. Try Sancocho at El Trapiche, located in Panama City, Panama

Costa Rica

Must try Casado, an entire meal consisting of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, tortillas and protein (meat) of your choice. Try Casado at Soda Las Flores, located in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Nicaragua

Must try Nacatamal, a tamale made unlike any other. Rich in flavor and ingredients. Some recipes include tomato, prunes, potato, raisins, pork and onion just to name a few. Try a Nacatamal at Cocina de Dona Haydee, located in Managua, Nicaragua

Honduras

Must try Plato Tipico, a popular dish that combines grilled meat, pork sausage, stewed beans, fried plantain and rice. Try a Plato Tipico at Tipicos Alexandra, located in Copan Ruinas, Copan, Honduras

El Salvador

Must try a Pupusa, El Salvador’s national dish. A handmade corn, flour or rice tortilla stuffed with cheese, chicharron (cooked pork meat ground to a paste) and refried beans. Try a Pupusa at Pupuseria Esmeralda, located in Juayua, El Salvador

Belize

Must try Salbutes, a Belizean favorite made with fried tortillas topped with shredded onion, cabbage, chicken, tomato, cheese and avocado. Try salbutes at El Fogon, located in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize

Guatemala

Must try Chile Relleno, green chile pepper stuffed with rice, cheese, meat and vegetables. They are usually served with tortilla and a delicious tomato sauce. Try a Chile Relleno at Fonda de la Calle Real, located in Antigua, Guatemala

5. Rich Culture and Tradition

Ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time and truly experience the way some of the ancient civilizations lived? Central America can be your time-machine. With stunningly preserved Temples and ancient ruins spread throughout the sub-continent, a visit to some of these places could be reason enough to make anyone want to visit.

Learn about the ancient Maya Civilization and see Tikal. Wonderous ruins in the Province of El Peten, Guatemala. Take a tour of this awe-inspiring archaeological site, then make your way to Altun Ha in northern Belize, where you will find 1,200 year old Maya ruins that can be climbed by foot.

Extend your Central American history lesson and make time for the less explored ancient Mayan City of Copan Ruinas in Honduras.

Once you’ve experienced ancient civilizations in some of the most amazing archaeological sites across the globe, join in on the fun with one of the many celebrations that keep rich traditions alive.

Infused with new generation traditions, here are some of the most inclusive national festivities happening throughout the year. Make sure to experience these at least once in your life.

Mascarade Day

Where: Costa Rica

What is it: Known to locals as El Dia de la Mascarada tradicional Costarricense. It is a day filled with festivals and parades held throughout parts of the country. The festivals feature masked figures on stilts. Don’t forget to purchase your mask here!

When: October 31st of each year

Best place to see: Escazu Province, San Jose, Costa Rica

Holy Week Celebrations

Where: Guatemala

What is it: Known to locals as Semana Santa, it is a festival of music and art incorporating rich traditions, such as playing the marimba and covering the ground with elaborate carpets. It is a celebration of faith and life.

When: Week leading to Easter Sunday (typically in April)

Best place to see: Antigua, Guatemala

August Vacations

Where: El Salvador

What is it: Known to locals as Fiestas Agostinas, it is a nationwide celebration in honor of the Divine savior of the world. Carnivals, painted streets and cheerful parades in which everyone takes part in.

When: August 1-August 6 each year

Best place to see: San Salvador, El Salvador

Carnival

Where: Panama

What is it: Although most won’t need a translation for this one, Carnival is a huge festival that is celebrated for four consecutive days.

It includes water games, music, parades and rich traditional foods. Widely compared to Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, it is the ultimate extravaganza you won’t want to miss.

When: Four days before Ash Wednesday

Best place to see: Las Tablas, Panama

Remember to plan your trip ahead of time to ensure accommodation for your festivities.

6. Infinite Adventure

Often referred to as Maya Wonderland, there is more to do in the sub-continent than visiting ancient ruins. Central America is home to some of the worlds most adventurous excursions and exhilarating expeditions known to man…or woman, for a very very reasonable price.

Hike through jungles, explore underwater caves, surf the perfect wave, zip-line past waterfalls, white water raft through thrilling rivers, and dive in the deepest diving available on Earth, The Blue Hole, Belize.

For a more mild escape, you can head to Roatan, Honduras to swim with dolphins or Kayak in Lago Cocibolca, Nicaragua. Take in nature with ultimate relaxation and head to one of the thermal hot springs created by the Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. If slight adrenaline is what you’re after, snorkeling in one of the islands in Bocas Del Toro, Panama may be the best choice.

Central America has something for everyone. The adventure will be enjoyed by all who visit.

7. Thriving Nightlife and Prospering Cities

Thriving and Prospering may not be the first words that come to mind when thinking about Central America, but a visit here will show you why they’re exactly that.

Aside from taking notice that there are some very efficient subway transportation systems already in place, you will also quickly realize that some of the most epic beach parties happen here in this sub-continent.

Take an Island hopper boat through Honduras Bay Islands, where you’ll be led to a different beach party at each stop.

Stroll through the Spanish Colonial city of Antigua, Guatemala. A city surrounded by volcanoes and colonial homes that is slowly developing technologically, without compromising tradition.

Shop at the Masaya Market, Nicaragua, the perfect location for souvenir shopping and grabbing some traditional clothing for yourself along the way.

Party like a local in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. One of the country’s most popular bar scenes right next to the beach. Catch a firework show every so often.

Bar hop in the epitome of thriving nightlife in Casco Viejo, San Felipe, Panama. Experience nightlife in a lively city, where you’ll fill your night with cocktail lounges and rooftop bars overlooking not only city, but ocean as well.

Why Visit Now

Central America has everything to offer. It is a unique place that can be enjoyed by everyone and will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

It’s Eco Friendly culture and vibrant co-habitation of nature and enterprise solidify it as a tourist mecca that is here to stay. With a growing popularity, I don’t think Central America will continue to be overlooked.

It may have taken Central America more than a few years to finally claim its’ rightful place in the travel limelight, but now the secret is out. It is no wonder their tourism is booming. Go and see for yourself!

To get the most out of at least one of these beautiful countries, check out my Ultimate Guide on How to plan the perfect trip to Costa Rica