Central America is the ideal place for the traveler in search of adventure, cultural wealth, ancient civilizations and natural heritage. The seven Member States also offer access to the most beautiful beaches in the world, characterized by azure waters and black volcanic or white sand. Here are a few tips for inspiration.
Sandboarding Cerro Negro Volcano
In Nicaragua, along the Pacific Ocean, lies a 1,500-kilometer-long volcanic chain. The ideal place to practice extreme sports and discover the area in a unique way. The Cerro Negro is an active volcano in northwestern Nicaragua, located near the historic city of León. During the hike to the top one can enjoy a panoramic view of the Telica and San Cristobal volcanoes. Once on top of the 675-metre-high Cerro Negro, it's thrill-seeking and you can make a spectacular descent on your wooden 'sandboard'.
Underwater Paradise in Belize
The most impressive underwater panoramas can be found off the coast of Belize. A true natural paradise with crystal clear waters and pristine coral reefs. A unique place for snorkeling or diving amidst colorful tropical fish, (nurse) sharks, rays and sea turtles. A beautiful island to discover the underwater world is Caye Caulker, surrounded by the Belize Barrier Reef this is the place that will make any snorkeler or diver happy.
Paraglide or abseil?
In Costa Rica you can also view the immense jungle from the air. To get at eye level with the beautiful birds that Costa Rica has, you can go paragliding. Combine the thrill of flying with natural beauty in its purest form. Not only do you have the chance to spot many exotic birds, but you can see the monkeys performing their tricks between the tree branches.
Prefer to abseil from a 75 meter high waterfall? Then you have come to the right place in El Salvador. In the Juayua region, the waterfall 'El Tanque' is the unique backdrop for daredevils who, dangling from a rope, engage in their battle with nature.
Adrenaline kicks in Panama
Many rivers in Central America are suitable for rafting, but especially in Panama the adventurer can enjoy oneself to the fullest. For extreme water sports, the Old Chiriquí River in the province of Chiriquí is ideal, because of its numerous rapids. Also located in the province of Coclé, the Grande River has sections where different levels of rapids test the rafters' skills. During the period from January to April, the intensity of the current is much less and therefore ideally suited for less experienced rafters.
Explore Maya civilization in four-wheel-drives
A visit to Guatemala goes hand in hand with a visit to the historic cities and temple ruins of the Maya civilization. It is extra adventurous to travel from city to city in 4×4s. There are several scenic routes through the region and which lead past impressive cities. The 4×4s enable you to fully explore the vast jungle and exuberant nature.
On a steel cable in Honduras
In Honduras, they know how to combine adventure activities with the authenticity of the destination. In the traditional and picturesque town of La Campa, famous for its ceramic products produced here, one can do a spectacular canopy. During such a canopy, the real adventurer swings via steel cables through the tops of the trees and over valleys or ravines. Not only are you as Tarzan or Jane at a maximum height of 350 meters, you will also come to beautiful vantage points during the tour to admire the green and gigantic landscape.
Art and Churches in Comayagua, Honduras
One of the most famous colonial cities is Comayagua in Honduras, founded in 1537. The iconic museum for Anthropology of Comyagua shows the Lenca Indian culture at its best. With unique objects from archaeological sites and cultural pieces from multiple periods. You can learn about local art in la Casa de la Cultura, which serves as an art gallery. The impressive churches also give an insight into the culture and the past:don't miss the Cathedral of Comayagua and the church Iglesia de La Merced.
Caribbean treasure in Belize
Belize is unrivaled as a beach destination. With a coastline of 400 kilometers and its 200 paradise islands, it is the ideal place to simply relax and enjoy the jungle-like environment. The beaches border the azure blue sea, the hotels are excellent and you can choose from a wide range of water activities such as snorkeling and diving.
The Great Blue Hole is one of the beautiful destinations off the coast of Belize:an underwater cave whose roof collapsed during the Ice Age. This spectacular cave is 300 meters wide and 123 meters deep. The hundreds of fish species and beautiful (deep) coral reefs make this place an Eldorado for divers from all over the world. It is not for nothing that the Great Blue Hole has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Olive Ridley turtles in Nicaragua
Nicaragua is blessed with beaches where the Olive Ridley turtles lay their eggs. In the Wildlife Reserve of La Flor, in the Nicaraguan Bay of San Juan del Sur, there is a virtually pristine and protected beach with pure white sand. 30,000 turtles come here every year to mate and breed. The breeding season starts in July and lasts until January.
Secluded sandy beaches in Honduras
The most spectacular beaches in Honduras can be found at the Bay Islands, an archipelago made up of the large islands of Utila, Roatan and Guanaja and about 60 smaller islands. Guanaja is an island that is still unknown to tourists. This reserve has great biodiversity. In addition, the Caribbean waters around Guanaja are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking or diving in peace.
Perfect surfing beach in Costa Rica
One of the most promising beaches in Costa Rica is that of Tamarindo, surrounded by mangrove trees and with a diversity of fauna. This place is also known as a perfect surfing destination. But Costa Rica has something for everyone. You can travel to the south of the country to visit the Manuel Antonio National Park. Here you share the beach with iguanas and sloths.
Pristine beaches in Guatemala
Playa Blanca is one of the most pristine beaches in Guatemala. Located in the department of Izabal, you can only get there by boat from both Rio Dulce, Livingstone and Puerto Barrios. The protected status of the area ensures that no construction activity is allowed. So no hotels or restaurants that affect the natural state of this little paradise. Also, Playa Blanca is the only white sand beach in Guatemala. Due to its volcanic origin, the other beaches are colored black.
