During a semester abroad in Costa Rica while in college, I became enamored with Central America. My host family introduced me to the Costa Rican way of life captured by “pura vida.” Though it literally translates to “pure life,” it really signifies a philosophy of savoring the present and finding joy in simple pleasures.
After I graduated in 2013, I have made it a habit to go back to Central America annually, and I have now set foot in all seven of its nations. Whether it’s secluded islands, misty cloud forests, towering volcanoes, or colonial towns, each journey adds another motive to return.
Below are the seven Central American destinations I would eagerly revisit.
In Belize, my favorite way to unwind is on Tobacco Caye. I’ve been to Belize twice, and I always look forward to spending time on Tobacco Caye, a tiny three‑acre island off Dangriga that offers the perfect escape when I crave quiet, nature, and relaxation.
Only a handful of small hotels and guesthouses dot the island, but its modest size adds to its charm. During my stay I relaxed, snorkeled, strolled around the island, and enjoyed the delicious meals prepared at Tobacco Caye Paradise, where I slept in an over‑water cabana.
It was the ideal week of uninterrupted peace, lounging in a hammock with a view of the Caribbean Sea.
Antigua, Guatemala, never ceases to amaze me. I’ve visited Guatemala five times, and each trip brings me back to Antigua.
The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wandering its cobblestone streets flanked by old Spanish architecture feels like stepping into a time machine. While there I love hiking the nearby Volcán de Acatenango, which offers spectacular views of its erupting neighbor, Volcán de Fuego.
Even after completing this hike three times, I’m continually struck by the beauty.
Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest is truly remarkable. Although I adore Costa Rica’s beaches, my favorite inland spot is the Monteverde region, which, in my view, best showcases the country’s biodiversity.
I especially enjoyed trekking through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a high‑elevation forest shrouded in mist. The hanging bridges on the trails give a unique bird’s‑eye perspective of the emerald‑green hills, rumbling rivers, and waterfalls below.
During the day I saw mostly birds and insects, but a guided nighttime hike revealed a different world: bats swooping overhead, tree frogs hunting for insects, and the forest coming alive after dark. When my guide asked if I’d ever seen a tarantula and I said no, he gently tapped a stick near a tree root, prompting a giant spider to emerge—an encounter that gave me a fresh perspective on the forest.
Utila, Honduras, proved perfect for scuba diving. On my trip to Honduras I spent most of my time on Utila, a Bay Island off the northern coast. My main goal was to dive the Mesoamerican Reef, which teemed with life and did not disappoint. Even a quick swim off the dock of my guesthouse revealed a variety of marine life, including fish, vibrant coral, and an eagle ray.
León, Nicaragua, holds a special place in my heart. After four visits to Nicaragua I can confidently say León, a historic city in the northwest, is my favorite destination.
The city serves as a great base for outdoor adventures; about an hour outside León I tried volcano‑boarding on Cerro Negro, a volcano that last erupted in 1999. As a beach lover I also appreciate that the Pacific coast is only a 30‑minute bus ride away.
What struck me most, however, was a deeper experience. As a self‑proclaimed history enthusiast, my highlight in León was visiting the Museum of the Revolution.
It’s rare to learn about historic events firsthand from those who lived them, and many of the museum’s guides are veterans of the war. During my visit the guide pointed to his own picture in several exhibits, and hearing his story of fighting in the revolution as a teenager left a lasting impression.