Central
America is in growth mode. According to statistics from Amadeus,
passenger demand for travel to Central America and the Caribbean
surged 3.1 percent between July 2024 and June 2025. Expectations are high for
this year as well, as new hotels and an array of activities, events and
attractions continue to lure travelers.
While Costa Rica continues to enjoy an especially high
profile among travelers, thanks to its success in developing ecotourism
and introducing new internationally branded hotels, other Central American
nations are benefiting from increased awareness as well. The Amadeus study, for
example, found that El Salvador has jumped to second place in search volume,
while the destinations of San Salvador, Liberia and Guatemala City have become
the fastest-growing searched destinations and nature-rich destinations like
Quepos, Drake Bay and Puerto Jimenez are posting triple-digit increases in
bookings.
Here are some of the most interesting places and ways to
experience the region.
Best Destinations in
Central America
Guanacaste and Punta Cacique, Costa
Rica: Northwestern Costa Rica
is one of the region’s top tourism destinations, and with good reason. Its
enticing blend of natural beauty, expansive beaches, adventurous activities and
world-class hotels has helped to cement its reputation among international
travelers. The recently opened Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique and Nekajui Peninsula Papagayo, a Ritz-Carlton
Reserve are evidence of the destination’s increasingly upscale appeal.
Panama City, Panama:
This bustling metropolis is home to the most modern skyline of any Central
American nation, but its allure goes far beyond the glistening skyscrapers,
luxury hotels and chic restaurants. The city’s historic, UNESCO-listed Casco
Antiguo neighborhood (also known as the Casco Viejo) is both picturesque and
trendy. Panama City also wows with attractions, including the Biomuseo (a
biodiversity museum set in an eye-catching building designed by star architect
Frank Gehry) and the world-famous Panama Canal. The main visitor center is a
short drive from the city. New hotels include the Hyatt Regency Panama City,
the first of that brand in Central America.
Playa Caracol and Chame, Panama: This nation’s Pacific coast offers miles of
lovely beaches and lots of watersports excitement — including kayaking,
windsurfing and kitesurfing. Visitors can also find land-based excitement by
exploring the Los Cajones canyons and Las Lajas waterfall. This region is bound
to attract additional attention with new accommodation options, including the Radisson
Riviera Panama, which opened in 2025, and the Margaritaville Beach Resort &
Residences at Playa Caracol, which is slated to open in 2027.
Antigua and Lake Atitlán, Guatemala:
The historic streets of Antigua, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a joy to explore, with well-preserved Spanish
colonial architecture, and fascinating cultural attractions and activities.
Nearby, Lake Atitlan is a postcard-perfect body of water surrounded by
volcanoes and small towns, and visitors can stop at markets in Chichicastenango
and other towns to shop for locally produced arts and crafts.
Roatan and the Bay Islands, Honduras:
This Caribbean archipelago dazzles
travelers with its turquoise waters, picturesque beaches and excellent
opportunities for diving and snorkeling — its colorful coral reefs are
well worth the trip. The hotel scene continues to evolve to serve a
diversifying traveler base. Refreshed options include the Hotel Roatan Media
Luna, Affiliated by Melia, the result of an existing property joining the Melia
Hotels International portfolio, while the Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort
Roatan is scheduled to debut in 2027.
El
Salvador’s Pacific Coast: El
Salvador lures surfers from around the world, thanks to the offerings along its
Pacific coast. El Tunco, El Zonte and Punta Roca are hubs for those looking to
ride the waves, and travelers can also view coral reefs and marine life while
snorkeling and diving at Los Cobanos National Park, and hike to nearby
volcanoes. Cultural and wellness travel are also rewarding in this region.
Playa Conchal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Thomas)
Best Attractions in
Central America
The Panama Canal: This massive engineering feat, built between 1904 and 1914 to connect the
Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, continues to amaze visitors. The Miraflores
Visitor Center, near Panama City, is the best place to learn about its history
and enjoy a close-up view of ships passing through locks, while the Agua Clara
Visitor Center, located closer to the Caribbean side, offers yet another
perspective. Travelers can also explore nearby Gatun Lake by boat or kayak
and combine a canal tour with jungle hikes in beautiful Soberania National
Park. Road Scholar offers a six-day itinerary called Grit and Glory: Exposing
the Panama Canal, with multiple departures in 2026 — and operators including Tauck
offer cruises that include a transit of the canal.
Tikal National Park: Tucked into the Guatemalan rainforest, Tikal is one of the most
magnificent Mayan architectural complexes, representing a city that peaked
around 600-900 CE. Now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a
stunning archeological treasure, marked with stepped pyramids, temples and
great plazas — all set against a dramatic jungle backdrop. Audley Travel is
among the companies that offer guided visits as part of larger Guatemala
itineraries.
Ambergris Caye:
One of Belize’s
true hotspots for lovers of sun and sea, Ambergris Caye is also the nation’s
largest island — a Caribbean paradise that’s conveniently close to the Belize
Barrier Reef, making it ideal for snorkelers, divers and adventurers. But
Ambergris Caye is also perfect for relaxation and partaking in land-based activities.
The town of San Pedro has lots of restaurants, bars and small hotels that exude
a decidedly relaxed vibe. One of the newest hotel options is Aruna Resort &
Villas, which offers wellness and adventure activities.
Caye Caulker: Ambergris
Caye’s smaller counterpart provides still more opportunities to relax and learn
about the region’s natural beauty. Travelers can join snorkeling trips to the Hol
Chan Marine Reserve as well as Shark Alley, where snorkeling and swimming with
nurse sharks, sting rays and turtles is the big draw.
Arenal Volcano National Park: No first-time visit to
central Costa Rica would be complete without a stop at Arenal Volcano National
Park, one of the nation’s most important natural landmarks. A gigantic, dormant
volcano serves as the park’s dramatic visual centerpiece, and activities
include hiking along old lava flows, zip-lining through rainforest canopies,
swimming at La Fortuna waterfall and bathing in thermal waters. Audley Travel
and EF Adventures include guided visits as part of multiple Costa Rica
itineraries.
Semuc Champey: One of Guatemala’s most naturally beautiful regions, Semuc Champey is an
enclave graced with a limestone bridge that spans the Cahabon River, as well as
terraced pools set in the verdant jungle. Visitors can hike, raft the river and
wade in the pools. The Zephyr River Lodge, located in the town of Lanquin, offers
a day trip to Semuc Champey, with opportunities for caving, waterfall jumping
and swimming in natural pools.
Semuc Champey, a natural bridge of limestone that spans the Cahabon River in Guatemala. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Javier)
Must-See 2026 Events in Central America
Semana Santa (Holy Week): Slated for March 29 to April 5, 2026, this Catholic tradition plays out
in various ways across Central America, from purple wooden crosses and
processions of Costa Rica to a symbolic boat crossing on Lake Nicaragua. The
town of Antigua, Guatemala hosts an especially fascinating Holy Week event; its
streets are covered with colorful sawdust carpets and processions carry statues
through the city as thousands look on. G
Adventures, Adventure Life and Journey Latin America are among the
operators that offer tours centered around Holy Week in Guatemala.
Panama Carnival: Taking place February 13–18, 2026, this is one of Central
America’s liveliest pre-Lenten celebrations. The town of Las Tablas, about 3.5
hours by car from Panama City, hosts the nation’s largest carnival, with
parades, elaborate costumes, live music and playful water fights on the
streets. Planning in advance is essential for those looking to attend this
massive event.
Boquete Flower and Coffee Fair: Mid-January is when this colorful event takes
place in Panama’s highlands. Beautiful floral displays and locally produced
coffee are the focus of the fair, with tastings, craft demonstrations and live
music among the offerings. Those looking to sample local brews at any time of
the year may want to consider a stay at hotels like the Lerida Coffee Estate,
which has guest rooms and hosts coffee tastings and other activities.
Chocolate Festival of Belize: Foodies with a sweet tooth should consider attending the Chocolate
Festival of Belize, which takes place May 16-18, 2026, in the town of Punta
Gorda, the hub of a region with centuries-old cacao production traditions that
date to the Mayan civilization. Chocolatiers from around the country display
and sell their mouthwatering creations, and live music and other activities are
also part of the festivities.
The town of Antigua, Guatemala. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Benjamin)
Best Places for Family Travel in Central America
Costa Rica: Travelers
of all ages can appreciate Costa Rica’s natural beauty, and the country’s
excellent infrastructure makes it easy for families to comfortably explore. In
Monteverde, for example, visitors can spot sloths, toucans and kinkajous and
join exciting expeditions across canopy walkways and hanging bridges in the cloud
forests. Manuel Antonio National Park, on the central Pacific coast, is also a
great place for spotting exotic birds, monkeys and sloths. Jacada offers customizable
family tours of Costa Rica, with ample opportunities to include kid-friendly
activities ranging from snorkeling with turtles and dolphins to zip-line
adventures in Arenal.
Belize: This
Central American nation offers a perfect blend of nature-based excitement and Caribbean-style
relaxation. Families can enjoy beach time in places like Ambergris Caye
and Caye Caulker, where the calm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Inland, the Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center — billed as the nation’s
oldest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility — is home to more than 150
animals and 43 native species, including jaguars, tapirs, harpy eagles and
crocodiles. The center offers guided tours so that visitors can learn more
about the residents.
Panama: Families
can enjoy a variety of activities in Panama. The nation’s capital, for example,
is a hub of fun and educational activities — including guided visits to the
Panama Canal and the Biomuseo, a fascinating museum that showcases Panama’s
biodiversity with extensive exhibits about the nation’s flora, fauna and
natural history. Another great destination for families in Panama is Bocas del
Toro, a group of idyllic islands on the Caribbean coast, where families can
take mangrove tours and even kayak between islands.
Guatemala: Families
can learn about history and indigenous culture in the beautiful town of Antigua
and the surrounding region, as well as at the National Museum of Archeology and
Ethnology in Guatemala City. Multigenerational travelers looking to stay active
may want to consider the offerings of companies like Backroads, which offers a
six-day Belize and Guatemala Family Multi-Adventure Tour that includes wildlife
spotting, hiking and cycling into Tikal National Park.
Ships navigate the Panama Canal. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Harold Stiver)
Best Places for
Couples and Romance Travel in Central America
Lake Atitlan and Panajachel, Guatemala: Dramatic volcanoes and tranquil blue waters
provide a lovely backdrop for a romantic getaway in the town of Panajachel. Casa
Palopo, a Relais & Chateaux property, has sumptuous lake-view suites, and
even a helipad to get couples there in style. Dining at cafes and restaurants
in Panajachel, as well as boat rentals and tours are among the popular
activities for couples.
The Cayes of Belize: The allure of the Caribbean is strong for many travelers, and the cayes
that lie just off the Belizean coast offer picturesque settings for a romantic
escape. The upscale resorts of Ambergris Caye provide indulgent options for
couples. Victoria House Resort & Spa, for example, offers a Reef Romance
package that includes a private candlelit dinner on the beach or by the pool. Shaka
Caye, located on a private island, offers a Romance and Honeymoon package that
includes a sunset cruise and a beachfront private dinner. For a different
setting, couples can consider heading inland to The Banks, a member of the
Belize Collection, which is being renovated and offers one-, two- and
three-bedroom villas with views of the jungle and the river.
Costa Rica’s Arenal and Papagayo Peninsula: From volcano spas to beachfront luxury, Costa
Rica offers diverse options for romance travel. At Tabacon Thermal Resort &
Spa, guests can bathe in mineral-rich thermal water and sign up for couples’
massages in open-air bungalows. On the Papagayo peninsula, meanwhile, romance
is easy to foster at luxury resorts including the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula
Papagayo, Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort and the adults-only Secrets Papagayo
Costa Rica, an all-inclusive resort with a spa. CRS Tours offers a variety of
romance packages in multiple destinations that are designed for couples.
Casco Viejo, Panama City: The historic streets of this Panama neighborhood can set the stage for a
memorable and stylish romantic escape. This supremely walkable zone is graced
with beautiful architecture and dotted with excellent restaurants, bars and
small shops. La Compania Casco Antiguo, part of The Unbound Collection by
Hyatt, can serve as an ideal base; each of its three wings represents a
different era of Panamanian history, and its onsite restaurants — including the
French modern venue, 1739 — are top-notch.
Roatan and the Bay Islands, Honduras: The secluded beaches of the Honduran islands
are a natural choice for couples. Romance-seeking travelers can also share
experiences such as snorkeling trips over colorful reefs, private sailboat
excursions to unspoiled coves, and beachfront dinners. The Ibagari Boutique
Hotel and Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort and Spa, which has a spa that offers
couples’ treatments, are among the accommodation options.
The Oak Ridge area of Roatan, Honduras. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Wollwerth Imagery)
Best Places for Group
Travel in Central America
Antigua and Lake Atitlan, Guatemala: Antigua’s walkability, historic charm and
variety of interesting restaurants, shops and hotels make it a good choice for
group travel. Nearby, Lake Atitlan wows with its natural beauty and proximity
to small towns and experiences where groups can learn more about local culture
and traditions. Craft workshops and coffee tastings are just a couple of the
experiences that can be arranged for groups. The 134-room Hotel Casa Santo
Domingo in Antigua is among the group-friendly accommodation options, and the
hotel’s affiliated museums add cultural depth to the stay.
Bocas del Toro, Panama: This Caribbean archipelago offers outdoor relaxation and excitement,
with activities that can include beach days, snorkeling trips, jungle treks and
chocolate farm visits. The adults-only Nayara Bocas del Toro offers luxurious,
over-water villas on a private island, while the Red Frog Beach Island Resort has
everything from beachfront rooms to villas with between two and six bedrooms.
San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua: This beachfront community offers an enticing mix of outdoor activities
and nightlife. Groups can spend their days surfing, sunbathing, horseback
riding and zip-lining, and then head out for drinks in the evening. The Treecasa
Resort has three pools, onsite activities including yoga sessions, and guided
eco-tours and accommodation options that include cabins, bungalows, treehouse
suites and a Family Suite that sleeps eight.
Arenal and La Fortuna, Costa Rica: This
region is a hotspot for group excitement, with activities like zip-lining, rappelling,
rafting and aerial tram rides among the options. Trails that lead through Arenal
Volcano National Park also provide excellent opportunities for enjoying the
great outdoors. Local operators including Sky Adventures can organize
itineraries for groups, and group-friendly hotel options include The Springs
Resort & Spa, a luxury resort with hot springs, a spa, an adventure center
that organizes soft adventure activities, and accommodation options that
include two- and three-bedroom suites and villas — as well as a five-bedroom
villa.
Belize’s Cayo District: The parks and ecological reserves of this lush inland region attract
groups seeking unique inland experiences — including visits to Mayan ruins,
river tubing and wildlife spotting. Chaa Creek, in the Macal River valley,
offers accommodation options including the two-bedroom Wright House, a
three-bedroom Spa Villa and Tree Top Villas with beautiful views. The property
also offers a variety of packages that may include adventure travel excursions
and visits to inland and coastal attractions.
Hiker looking out at the Arenal volcano in La Fortuna (Photo Credit: Goway/Amy/ Adobe Stock)
Best Places for Solo Travel in Central America
Costa Rica: With
its excellent connectivity and myriad activities and accommodations at various
price points, Costa Rica is well-positioned to serve solo travelers. Small-van
shuttle services connect many of the top destinations around the nation, making
it easy and economical for independent globetrotters to pack in a lot of
activities. G Adventures offers an eight-day Solo-ish Costa Rica
itinerary that runs from San Jose to Quepos and Manuel Antonio, with stops at
La Fortuna/Arenal and Monteverde. This adults-only program is for solo
travelers only and is designed to foster bonds among the group.
Belize: On this
nation’s coast, solo travelers can immerse themselves in the laidback vibe of
Caye Caulker, with beautiful beaches, outdoor activities and beachfront bars
all providing the opportunity to spark conversations and friendships — or just
enjoy relaxed alone time. Inland, the San Ignacio Resort Hotel bills itself as
ideal for solo travelers, with group excursions including cave tours and visits
to the Xunantunich Mayan archeological site. G Adventures, meanwhile, operates
a Solo-ish Belize itinerary, designed only for solo adult travelers, that
includes Belize City, San Ignacio, the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich and Caye
Caulker.
Guatemala: Historic
Antigua is a welcoming spot for solo travelers; its relatively small size can
make it easier to meet others, and it’s a convenient hub for exploring the
surrounding region — including Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango. Hotel options
include Socialtel Hotel Antigua, which features a coworking space and hosts
yoga and meditation sessions, fitness activities, workshops and other
experiences that can foster socializing. G Adventures offers a nine-day Solo-ish
Guatemala itinerary, limited to adult solo travelers, that starts and ends in
Antigua, with visits to Lake Atitlan, Rio Dulce and Tikal.
Panama: The
capital city, highlands and Caribbean coast of Panama can all provide enjoyable
settings for solo exploration. Panama City’s Casco Viejo neighborhood is
especially good for solo travelers, since it’s walkable and provides multiple
cafes and bars for meeting other travelers. The Central Hotel, set in a
historic building on the main square, is a well-located accommodation option,
and can be combined with a stay at the Central Hotel Bocas del Toro, a
nature-focused property on the Caribbean coast that offers scuba diving and
other excursions.
The evening skyline of Panama City, Panama. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/SL-Photography)
Best Places for
Foodie Travel in Central America
San Jose and the Central Valley, Costa Rica: Fascinating traditional markets, home-grown
coffee and authentic cuisine are among the reasons why foodies head to the area
around Costa Rica’s capital. Dishes such as gallo pinto, empanadas and fresh
tropical fruits are must-try items on the menu. Foodie Tours Costa Rica offers
multiple culinary outings that highlight locally produced coffee and chocolate,
and showcase both traditional and contemporary cuisine. The International
Kitchen, meanwhile, operates multi-day “cooking vacations” that can include
visits to coffee and sugarcane plantations, and opportunities to cook with
locals with help from professional chefs.
Belize: This
Central American nation is especially attractive for lovers of fresh Caribbean
seafood and handmade chocolate. The Chocolate Festival of Belize, which takes
place in Punta Gorda on May 16-18, 2026, is a popular annual foodie event that ties
in with Belize’s Mayan heritage and cacao traditions. In the island town of San
Pedro, Belize Food Tours operates guided, year-round lunch and dinner tours,
each with multiple stops and at least nine tastings.
Guatemala: The
town of Antigua and the central highlands are heaven for foodies and coffee
lovers. Those looking for a guided experience can check out Audley Travel’s
street food tours of Antigua, which can be added to other itineraries and
include opportunities to sample dishes such as cheese-filled tortillas, pork
dishes and even cow brains. Columbus Guatemala Travel also operates an Antigua
street food tour; its program lasts three hours and showcases both traditional
and modern Guatemalan favorites, including seasonal fruits and hearty stews
called pepian and hilachas.
Panama: Panama
City is a hotspot for sophisticated international cuisine as well as delicious
local specialties like patacones (fried plantains) and sancocho (a stew made
with chicken, beef or pork). Barefoot Panama offers a Taste of Panama City tour
that includes stops at a seafood market for fresh ceviche, samples of
Panamanian chocolate, coffee and four types of beer. Food Tours Panama,
meanwhile, offers a cooking class and a food market tour.
Aerial view of San Jose, Costa Rica. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Gian)
Best Places for Adventure Travel in Central America
Pacuare River, Costa Rica: Whitewater rafting is a heart-pumping experience on the Pacuare River,
which serves up class III and IV rapids near the central highlands. OARS offers
a seven-day, multisport Costa Rica: Pura Vida itinerary that includes
moderately challenging Pacuare rafting, as well as canal kayaking and zip-lining
at a nature preserve. The company’s nine-day Costa Rica Rainforest and River
Explorer itinerary, meanwhile, adds extra rafting time, plus a hike to a
waterfall.
La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica: Arenal Mundo Aventura, an ecological park in
La Fortuna, offers a variety of adventure activities, including zip-lining,
rappelling and horseback riding. Its Canopy and Rafting combo package includes visits
to the park’s seven most extreme zip-lines, as well as transportation to the
Balsa River, where participants test their whitewater rafting skills in class
II and III rapids.
Guanacaste: Northwestern
Costa Rica has a new option for adventure and sports fans; in December 2025,
Peninsula Papagayo debuted a multi-sport destination complex that
includes BMX tracks, a lap pool, and tennis and pickleball courts. Access is
free for guests at the Andaz
Peninsula Papagayo. Additional
fast-paced excitement awaits at Buena Vista del Rincon, a hotel, spa and
eco-adventure park where visitors can soar along a zip-line with 12 platforms,
steer a mountain bike along challenging trails and go horseback riding.
Multi-Country Adventures: The relatively short distances between Central American nations make it
easy to partake in a wide variety of adventure activities in multiple
destinations. G Adventures, for example, leads a 13-day Costa Rica to Panama
itinerary, designed for adventurers aged 18 to 40 that includes biking in
Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, followed by snorkeling in Bocas del Toro and hiking
in Boquete, Panama. Intrepid’s
34-day Central American Adventure itinerary, meanwhile, stops at major sites in
seven countries (including Mexico)
and includes hiking, cycling, zip-lining and a variety of other activities.
Belize and Guatemala: Hiking in the jungles of the Cayo district, snorkeling and diving along
the Placencia peninsula and mountain biking in a Caribbean pine forest are just
a few of the activities offered by Jacada in its customizable itineraries in
this region. In addition, Backroads offers a Belize and Guatemala
Multi-Adventure Tour that includes biking and hiking through remote Guatemalan
landscapes and Belizean forest reserves, exploring caverns near the Tikal
archeological site and snorkeling along the barrier reef off the coast of
Belize.
The Catarata del Toro waterfall in Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Nick Fox)
Best Places for
Sports Enthusiasts in Central America
Panama: Fans
of challenging endurance sports should consider a visit to Panama City for Ironman
70.3 Panama, which takes place on March 22, 2026. Participants will swim, bike
and run through urban and coastal routes in this spirited competition, which draws
participants and spectators from around the globe. The Marriott Panama is the
host hotel. Year-round sporting options include cycling tours with Roar
Adventures (its 14-day itinerary also includes Costa Rica and Nicaragua).
El Salvador: San Salvador will debut its first Ironman 70.3 event on February 22, 2026, offering
triathletes a chance to compete on a course that begins with a swim in Lake
Ilopango. Surfers will find breathtaking challenges in El Salvador, as well;
the Pacific coast offers ideal waves and accommodation options like the AST
Surf Hotel, which offers Surf and Stay packages that include daily lessons.
Belize: The
barrier reef that runs the length of Belize makes it a prime diving
destination, and the Beyond Blue Dive Summit, slated for April 22-25, 2026, is
one of the best times to meet other members of the diving community, explore
the reefs and learn about conservation efforts. Companies that offer dive tours
throughout the year include Belize Diving Adventures and Aggressor Adventures.
Costa Rica: Cyclists
flock to Costa Rica for La Ruta, a mountain bike stage race that takes place
next on November 6-8, 2026. The challenging route runs from the Pacific to the
Caribbean coast, covering varied terrain. Cycling enthusiasts can tour Costa
Rica on two wheels with Exodus Adventure Travels, a company that offers a
14-day, coast-to-coast itinerary, with visits to Manuel Antonio National Park
and Las Cruces botanical gardens.
San Pedro, a vibrant town on Ambergris Caye, Belize. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Ian)
Best Places for
LGBTQ+ Travel in Central America
Costa Rica: This
is Central America’s most progressive nation when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights; it’s the only
one that has legalized same-sex marriage and also has anti-discrimination
protections. The capital city of San José is the nation’s LGBTQ+ hub, with vibrant
nightlife, an annual pride celebration in June and hotels like Colours Oasis
Resort, which targets the LGBTQ+ market. The Pacific coastal area of Manuel
Antonio is also a prime destination; Royal Grand Resorts offers accommodations
specifically for gay men. For those looking for guided experiences, Out
Adventures offers a seven-night Gay Eco-Adventure tour itinerary that includes
stops at a variety of naturally beautiful sites and attractions.
Panama: While
lacking the inclusive legislation that exists in Costa Rica, Panama
nevertheless provides a warm welcome to LGBTQ+ travelers — especially in
sophisticated Panama City, which is home to a thriving queer nightlife scene
and a large Panama Pride celebration that takes place in late June. A company
called Out in Panama offers tours and experiences for gay men, including city
tours, day trips and nightlife outings.
Pride Celebrations in
Other Central American Countries: Visiting other destinations during pride
season is a good way to connect with the local LGBTQ+ community and witness its
strength. Pride events take place in June in El Salvador, Guatemala and
Nicaragua, and in August in Belize.
Aerial view over San Salvador, El Salvador. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/H-Media)
Unique to Central America
Guna Yala (San Blas) and Embera Villages in Panama: This Central American nation offers
especially rich cultural experiences, thanks to the presence of at least seven living
indigenous groups, each with its own distinct culture and traditions. Many
members of the Guna community make their homes in the autonomous indigenous
territory called Guna Yala, a stunning archipelago on Panama’s Caribbean coast.
Travelers can book individual stays at small hotels on several islands, or join
multi-day tours offered by companies including San Blas Dreams. Travelers can
learn about the Embera culture, meanwhile, by joining day trips from Panama
City to communities living on the Gatun River. Ancon Expeditions is among the
companies offering these outings.
Tikal and Flores in Guatemala: One of the region’s most impressive Mayan
archeological sites, Tikal never fails to amaze. Bolontiku Hotel Boutique &
Spa, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, serves as a decidedly
stylish base for exploring this fascinating region, with guided tours departing
from the hotel for Tikal and the nearby island town of Flores.
Antigua, Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan in Guatemala: This region of Guatemala is an ideal place
for visitors to witness and learn about indigenous culture. There are
several Mayan communities around Lake
Atitlan, and the many markets — including the well-known market in
the town of Chichicastenango — are
extremely popular. Mayan Hands offers a nine-day Guatemala Artisan Tour
that includes guided market visits and the opportunity to meet Mayan women
weavers to learn about their traditions and techniques.
Copan Ruins in Honduras: Abandoned by the Maya in the early 10th century, Copan is one
of the region’s most important archeological sites. Its acropolis, plazas and
stadium are just a few of the elements that are on view. The Ancestral Copan
Hotel, located near the ruins, offers accommodations as well as a variety of
experiences, including guided Tikal tours, hikes to the Mayan ruins of
Rastrojon and visits to the Macaw Mountain Bird Park.
Pre-Columbian Settlements of the Diquis and the Boruca Community
in Costa Rica: Located in the
Diquis Delta in southern Costa Rica are four archeological sites that belonged
to a society that dates to around 500-1500 CE. The site’s collection of
mysterious stone spheres has caused much speculation about their use and
purpose. The Boruca community, meanwhile, is a living group of people in the
southern Pacific coastal region of Costa Rica; its annual Fiesta de los
Diablitos — which commemorates the battle between indigenous people and
the invading Spanish — takes place in late December. Tucanes Tours offers
customized cultural tours to the Boruca community, with departures from Manuel
Antonio, Dominical or Uvita.
Tikal in Petén, Guatemala. (photo via Organización Mundo Maya) (Photo Credit: Organización Mundo Maya)
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