Central America & the Caribbean
While technically part of the North American continent, Central America and the Caribbean Sea are a region (or regions) apart from the rest. Like some major Caribbean islands -- including Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico -- Central America has mixed Spanish and native heritage, while the Caribbean islands also display African, French, Dutch, British and even Danish influences. Besides large cruise ships, a variety of small ships also cruise the Caribbean and make stops in Central America as well. Costa Rica, Panama, Belize and Guatemala are all popular Central American destinations.
Top Central America & the Caribbean Experiences
Going snorkeling in the bright blue waters of Belize
Walking among Mayan Pyramids in Tikal, Guatemala
Riding a small boat on the Panama Canal after visiting an indigenous tribe in the rainforest.
Walking around Old Havana, Cuba, to see Hemingway haunts and 1950s-era American cars, still running.
Surfing Central America’s top surf spots
Unlock Community Benefits
- Save favorite trips and itineraries
- Get insider insights
- Receive personalized recommendations
...and much more
Things to do in Central America & the Caribbean - Expert’s guide
If there is an ultimate bucket list to do in Central America, we’ve got you covered. In no particular order, here are the top 10 things that you cannot miss out to make your journey to Central America the best trip of your life.
1. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
One of the most scenic, vast and gorgeous lakes you could see in your life. There are several towns around the lake that you could visit, each one a different vibe from the other. While this is one of the most sought after escapes in Guatemala, it is surprisingly not touristy and very much immersed in local and Mayan culture.
Find more things to do in Guatemala >>
2. Tortuguero, Costa Rica
If you’re looking for Costa Rica adventure traveling or a biodiverse paradise, Tortuguero is the ideal destination. Come here to see thousands of sea turtles, rainforest expeditions, brilliant wildlife and over 2000 different types of faunas.
3. Dominical, Costa Rica
This beach town is one of Costa Rica’s best surfing destinations. While the waves and white sandy beaches are what most travelers come to see, Dominical is also filled with jungles, mountains, waterfalls and a large wildlife rescue.
4. Corcovado, Costa Rica
This is one of the largest and untouched tropical rainforests in Central America. None of the animals are groomed or fed by humans which makes for the most raw, natural and spectacular wildlife viewing there is. You can expect to see some incredible sights before wandering for too long inside, such as lounging jaguars, pumas, swinging spider monkeys and more.
5. Bay Islands, Honduras
The Bay Islands are a hub for one of the most exotic marine life and contains the second largest reef barrier in the world. Come here to learn to dive for cheap, snorkel with whale sharks, chill at the beach and explore local village life.
6. Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua
Located by Lake Nicaragua and holding two majestic, twin volcanoes, this is the perfect getaway in Central America for anybody looking for an oasis of relaxation. Come here to explore the lagoons, boulders and stone art, hike the perfectly cone shaped volcanoes and backpack around the misty forest.
7. San Blas, Panama
One of the best beaches there is, the San Blas islands have some of the best beaches in Panama. Tour around san blas and experience scuba diving, fishing, surfing, sailing under the sun and so much more!
8. Costa del Sol, El Salvador
Like most Salvadoran beaches, this beach is huge, sandier, extremely clean and gorgeous. Costa del sol is perfect for surfers of any experience and tourists of every kind, from baby boomers to budget backpackers. Stay in luxurious hotels or hostels, rent yachts or hike, this place has it all.
9. Great Blue Hole, Belize
Mysterious and enigmatic, this massive sinkhole attracts brave scuba divers and snorkelers every year that seek to explore what lies beneath the blackness. Dive in crystal, turquoise waters and swim next to a mecca of diverse marine life.
10. Tikal, Guatemala
Tikal is probably the most breathtaking space of Mayan ruins there is on earth. Book a tour to Tikal and immerse yourself in the culture, traditions and knowledge of one of the most powerful kingdoms that once walked Central America.
Find more attractions and experiences in Central America & the Caribbean
Top Central America & the Caribbean Tours See all
Want a tailor-made trip instead?
- You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
- Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Central America & the Caribbean Tours Reviews & Ratings
Write a reviewTravelstride featured in
- Intrepid Travel Reviews
- G Adventures Reviews
- Exodus Travels Reviews
- Explore! Reviews
- Insight Vacations Reviews
- Trafalgar Reviews
- Collette Reviews
- Luxury Gold Reviews
- Exoticca Reviews
- Contiki Reviews
- Omega Tours Reviews
- Project Expedition Reviews
- Topdeck Reviews
- Charlie The Traveler Reviews
- SITA World Tours Reviews
- Bamba Reviews
- Global Basecamps Reviews
- Travel Talk Reviews
Why Travelstride
Click to send a new magic link to your inbox.
Welcome back!
By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
- Bookmark trips you like
- Share with your travel companions
- Track price changes
- Access private discounts on trips you save
TripFinder is a member-only feature. Dont worry, its free!
With a membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.
With your free membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use