Everyone thinks South America and North America make up the huge landmass that we all know and love, but have you ever given much thought to Central America? If not, it’s certainly time you did, as there are some of the world’s most stunning sights here, and experiences you must not miss.
Whilst Central America is becoming more and more popular for travellers, it is perhaps one of the least well known areas of the world in some respects. All that is about to change, and here are five of the must visit places you should head to in this beautiful part of the world; make sure these make your final cut.
San Pedro, Belize
You don’t need to be a Madonna fan to have heard of the song ‘Isla Bonita’, and this is the destination the famous song is about – you’re singing it right now, I bet! Of course, that did major things for tourism in Belize overall, and San Pedro is now a major tourism hotspot, whilst being stunningly beautiful at the same time. You will find countless paradise beaches and dive spots, perfect for a chilled out break with a loved one, or simply time alone.
Granada, Nicaragua
This is a city with history and architecture to enjoy, dating back to the colonial era. On top of that, you have nature and wildlife to appreciate, with hikes up the dormant Mombacho volcano on offer, or zip-lining through dense forest trees. The city is old yet modern at the same time, a strange blend, with plentiful traditional shopping opportunities to take in.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
The sunsets over the ocean here are nothing short of amazing, and this is a destination which will show you the beauty of Costa Rica. Surfing, fishing, diving, everything you could want from a beach break you will find here, as well as plentiful luxury hotels for treating yourself to a spot of pampering perhaps.
Copan, Honduras
If ruins and history are your thing then you need to be heading to Copan, where you will find Mayan ruins in abundance. This is a World Heritage Site, which says it all, and the area feels very authentic too, with beautiful mountain scenery and a traditional main square to enjoy.
Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua has some of the best preserved Spanish colonial architecture in Central America, with traditional cobblestone streets, winding alleys and beautiful views from the volcanoes just outside the city itself. You can sit sipping coffee with locals in the park, taking in the laid-back, traditional vibe.
The great thing about Central America is that yes, it has tourism hotspots, but even those aren’t overdone, and you still feel like you’re privy to something special, something untouched by what tourism can often bring to certain parts of the world.
The best advice? Head there whilst it’s hot, before it gets ruined, and whilst you can still appreciate the wonder of everything Central America has on offer.