7 Places to Visit in Central America Before You Die

Asking someone to list the best places to visit in Central America before you die is like asking a girl to choose five outfits she will wear until the day she dies. Near impossible to make an exact choice. This was very hard to put together considering there are so many magical locations spread out over the Central American region. I decided to be fair and only name one per county. No one country deserved to be on the list twice over the other. This list might be the most incomplete list you read! So why bother reading it? Because if this doesn’t inspire you to visit all seven Central American countries, then we’re not sure what will.

Each country has an incredible past to share, ancient monument, buildings, relics that date back centuries, the most stunning backdrops, views, and sights, and cultural scenes oozing at its borders. Central America is full of wonderful natural beauty. Hike famous volcanos and wander ancient ruins. Drink with some friendly locals in a crumbling colonial building or swim at one of the most remarkable reefs our plant features. Getting to see mountainscapes to coastlines here will be indescribable and surely fascinating.

Make sure to experience everything you possibly can out of each and one of these places, after all they are some of the top travel destinations in the world. You will find so many more for each country, but if you were to choose only one best place to visit in Central America before you die in each country, that list might look similar to this. Get those bags pack and go explore Central America!

7. Leon, Nicaragua

The colonial city of Leon is blessed with tons of cathedrals and buildings of grand architecture. There are city and streetscapes to admire, and the effervescent vibes are infectious. There’s plenty of art to revel in for the artsy person, the glutton won’t be able to get enough to eat at the eateries, and the nightlife buff can enjoy the bar scene.

 

6. Arenal Route, Costa Rica

Arguably one of the most famous sites in Central America, and probably the most popular volcano, has to be Arenal. The majestic volcano puffs out smoke and draws you near its fiery peak. The route takes you around beautiful mountains bends and through charming villages, and fantastic vistas, all while Arenal stares back at you from a distance.

 

5. Bay Islands, Honduras

Hands down this is one of the hottest and best locations for diving. So if you’re a marine creature fan and love swimming around with exotic local fish and passing vibrantly colored coral, this is the spot for you. The reef system is nothing short of phenomenal being that it’s the second largest reef in the world.

 

4. Tikal, Guatemala

Similar to Mayan sites in terms of the looks, however the reason this one is so special is because it’s tucked away in the lush green jungles. Hidden away in the trees you get to wander ancient sites and get an excellent viewpoint of this epic scene.

 

3. Panama City, Panama

A cosmopolitan city full of life, prosperity, and lure. The historic quarters of Casca Viejo is starting to dazzle once again with its up and coming scene and cobblestone streets charming all visitors. The skyline, cool night atmosphere, and the vibrancy of the people will make for a nice few days.

 

2. Ruta de las Flores, El Salvador

Like the name suggest, this road connecting Sonoma and Ahuachapan is nothing short of jaw-droppingly gorgeous. A route of flowers are cast before you in a colorful fantasy of wild flora. They are viewable between October and February, but the colonial village lucky enough to be located here and the coffee plantation that are nearby, are all part of the attraction.

 

1. Ambergris, Caye, Belize

Here is your paradise beach getaway. The tropical escape that awaits you here is for the lazy chill out days. Don’t worry about doing anything or being anywhere, just enjoy the magnificent beaches here on the country’s largest island and nothing else. If you really can’t sit still, there are of course excellent activities to choose from. Diving and snorkeling to petting sharks, and the art gallery for later after you’ve dried off. Boat tours and wildlife viewing and then a nice ice cold cocktail waiting for you at one of the cool bars are the way to spend your days and evenings.

What county are you most excited about? What best place to visit in Central America before you die is topping your list?