Why Central America Needs to Be on Your Travel List in 2026

After traveling to more than 80 countries, Central America stands out as the region we return to most often. It has everything we look for: lush jungles, swimmable beaches, friendly people, affordable travel options, amazing cuisine, and rich traditions. Whether we’re snorkeling the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, kayaking through mangroves, or eating baleadas in a historic market, Central America has become our happy place.

It’s compact and well-connected by flights, which makes it easy to get to from the US and Canada and easy to move between mountains, lakes, and coastlines. You can find boutique stays and great food at affordable prices, and most hotels include a phenomenal breakfast with eggs, fruit, beans, rice, plantains, and coffee. For us, it’s exciting and accessible.

We’ve visited all seven countries, and most more than once. Each trip shows us something new. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each country – and why we think more travelers should give this region a closer look in 2026.

Guatemala Has It All For Less

We’ve spent the most time in Guatemala and always want to return. The mix of Spanish colonial architecture, active volcanoes, and Mayan culture is unlike anywhere else. You’ll find jungles, gorgeous lakes, ancient ruins that are better than Chichen Itza, and a historic town that you’re guaranteed to fall in love with.

What to do:

• Hike Acatenango for sunrise views of an erupting volcano (we did not do this challenging experience but we hear it’s awesome if you’re up for it)
• Explore the colonial streets of Antigua (our favorite place we visit every time)
• Visit Lake Atitlán and its lakeside towns like San Juan and San Marcos
• Take a jungle tour of the Tikal ruins
• Shop local textiles and crafts in the markets

What to eat:

Pepián, tamales, fresh tortillas, rellenitos, and strong local coffee. We made pepián during a cooking class and also ordered it every chance we got – it’s the greatest stew you’ve ever tasted and each place has its own spin.

👉 Guatemala Travel Guide: 5 Best Experiences for First-Time Visitors

Belize For Posh Jungle Resorts and Beach Towns

Belize is easy to navigate and great for those who love a mix of water and woods. We recommend Belize for your first or second trip to the region (as well as Costa Rica). It feels part Central American and part Caribbean. English is the main language, which makes logistics simple. And we love how quickly you can get from jungle to beach.

What to do:

• Snorkel in Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Go cave tubing and ziplining in the jungle
• Visit Xunantunich and Caracol for Mayan ruins
• Relax on Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye
• Enjoy a bougie stay in Placencia
• Sleep in a cabin on the beach in Hopkins

What to eat:

Fry jacks, stewed chicken, rice and beans with coconut milk, and ceviche. We’ll also order the conch any day.

Note: fire ants in Belize are real. One wrong step and you’ll remember it. I’m speaking from (painful) experience. Be sure to cover up at night and bring bug spray.

👉 Belize for First-Time Visitors: Where to Stay and What to Do

Honduras for Ruins and Snorkeling

Honduras gets less attention, but we absolutely love it. The Bay Islands are top-tier for diving and snorkeling. If you know us at all, you know Roatan is our favorite place on earth. On the mainland, nature and Mayan ruins provide an amazing adventure.

What to do:

• Get dive certified in Utila or relax in Roatán
• Visit the well-preserved ruins of Copán
• Hike waterfalls in Pico Bonito National Park
• Next time we want to check out this Hilton property on mainland Honduras

What to eat:

Baleadas, fried fish, tamales, and fresh local fruit.

👉 Roatán Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Plan Your Vacation

El Salvador For the Adventurous

We stayed in El Tunco, a surf town with dramatic rock formations and black-sand beaches. It’s compact, laid-back, and has a strong local vibe on the weekends. We loved the rustic and lively atmosphere, though travelers should note they won’t find well-manicured, white-sand beaches and posh resorts. It’s rocky and raw but also so beautiful. Also, the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see.

What to do:

• Watch surfers from the beach or cliffs of El Tunco
• Explore the Ruta de las Flores
• Hike to Santa Ana volcano
• Wander through San Salvador’s Centro Historico

What to eat:

Pupusas with every filling you can find.

👉 El Salvador’s Best Beach Town: What to Do in El Tunco

Nicaragua

Nicaragua mixes colonial charm with outdoor adventure. We visited Granada, San Juan del Sur, and Ometepe Island. It’s one of the best-value destinations in the region, though be prepared for less infrastructure.

What to do:

• Stroll Granada’s colorful streets and check out the historic buildings
• Volcano board down Cerro Negro
• Bike Ometepe
• Surf or unwind in San Juan del Sur

What to eat:

Gallo pinto with eggs and fruit for breakfast, nacatamales, tostones, fritanga, and Toña beer.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is polished and set up for tourism. It’s a good intro to the region, though prices are higher than elsewhere. Nature lovers will love the national parks and wide variety of ecosystems.

What to do:

• Hike cloud forests in Monteverde
• Spot sloths and monkeys in Manuel Antonio
• Soak in hot springs near La Fortuna
• Surf in Santa Teresa
• Relax on the Caribbean side

What to eat:

Casado, gallo pinto, arroz con pollo, sopa negra, and fresh juices. Look for comida tipica (traditional food). For coffee lovers, take a local farm tour.

👉 Where to Go in Costa Rica: 8 Best Destinations

Panama

Panama blends urban energy with beach and jungle escapes. We loved the contrast of skyscrapers and historic monuments in Panama City – and the fact that you can be in a national park or tropical island just hours later.

What to do:

• Walk the colonial streets of Casco Viejo
• Watch ships at the Panama Canal
• Island-hop (we love Bocas del Toro)
• Visit Boquete for hiking and coffee tours

What to eat:

Ceviche from fish markets, patacones, sancocho, carimañolas, and Panamanian coffee.

👉 Panama City Luxury Travel for Less: Best Spots for Miami Vibes

Things to Keep in Mind

Travel in Central America has its quirks:

• Road conditions can be rough and traffic can be crazy. A two-hour drive might take four or more – and we have some stories! Bring snacks and expect delays. If you’re trying to catch a flight or ferry, make sure you’re staying close to your place of departure.
• Some places are pricier than you think. Belize, Costa Rica, and Panama City can add up fast.
• Bugs are part of the deal. Bring bug spray, and wear long sleeves for jungle hikes.
• Service can be slow, especially on islands and beaches. No one’s in a rush. Meals take time. Enjoy the view.
• Chicken buses are colorful but chaotic. They’re fine for short hops, but we use shuttles or private transfers for longer journeys.

Why We Keep Coming Back

Central America offers a balance of nature, food, and culture that we’ve fallen in love with over the years. It’s affordable, adventurous, and welcoming. And for us, it’s a short trip, even with a layover in Miami.

If you’re curious about the region or planning a trip, let us know. We’re always happy to share tips from the road.