As a travel advisor with years of experience planning trips to Central America, it’s my philosophy to embrace contrast and similarity between countries—whether that’s culturally, geographically, or both. As an example, my favorite trip begins in PanamaTransitions from Costa Rica’s The lush landscape is followed by colonial architecture Nicaragua. Visit the ancient sites of and luxury resorts in Belize Explore the natural beauty and towns of Guatemala. This is a detailed look at my personal two favorite routes.
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Panama, Costa Rica and Nicaragua Itinerary
Panama
Begin your journey in Panama City. Discover the culinary diversity of the city as you walk through CascoAntiguo’s historic district. Continue northwest to Boquete, where you can find beautiful cloud forests, coffee farms run by families, and stunning views of Volcan Baru. On both sides of Costa Rica, you can enjoy ocean adventures. Whether you are interested in luxury resorts and amazing marine life found on destinations such as Coiba Island or want to experience the best of both worlds with a combination of luxury resorts and family-run coffee farms.
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Costa Rica
Passo Canoas is the closest border crossing point to Costa Rica. You can also fly into Costa Rica via a regional flight. Stay in an eco-lodge on the Osa Peninsula to wake up to howler macaws and scarlet-colored macaws. You can then head north, to the misty trails in Monteverde. Here you can watch hummingbirds while sipping hot chocolate and try local cuisine at a treetop eating garden. The Nicoya Peninsula is home to one of the five “Blue Zones”, where the average life expectancy is higher than in other parts of the world.
Nicaragua
Cross into Nicaragua through the Peñas Blancas border and explore the Spanish colonial architecture of Granada. Lake Nicaragua is the largest freshwater Lake in Central America. You can paddleboard, kayak and boat on this vast body of water rich in biodiversity. For more adventure, climb Mombacho Volcano to enjoy panoramic views of the jungle and trails.
Belize-Guatemala Itinerary
Belize
Belize is known for its beautiful islands, but its mainland—with its Mayan ruins, archaeological sites like Caracol and Xunantunich, and underground caves at Actun Tunichil Muknal—is an underrated destination for historical adventures. Learn about the Garifuna’s famous drumming and their traditional cuisine. Belize offers a variety of luxury resorts, including barefoot luxury and private islands, for those seeking pure relaxation.
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Guatemala
Tikal, a UNESCO world-heritage site in Guatemala is only a short flight away or a scenic road transfer. The majestic Lake Atitlán is surrounded by volcanoes, and the villages nestled around the lake each have their own personality. Visit the weaving communities in San Juan La Laguna to learn about their old traditions. Then, spend one or two nights in Antigua. Stroll the cobblestoned streets and browse for handmade jewelry and textiles.
Katrin Kirchhoff It is not a member Travel + Leisure’s A-List It specializes on trips to Nicaragua, Panama and Costa Rica. Kirchoff will create an itinerary that is tailored to your needs. [email protected].
