Surprise surprise, it’s summer and we’re pining over Central America’s most stunning natural wonders. Why? Because Central America is practically synonymous with rich bio-diversity, and also coconut water tastes better while rafting down a river with howler monkeys as company.
If you’re heading to this luscious section of the Earth then most likely you’re a lover of the outdoors and feel a certain calm while surrounded by unique landscapes. You’re also likely prepared for mosquitos, swaying palm trees aside dense forests, and lots of adventure.
From the most seasoned travelers to those just starting their journeying, there’s something to pull an involuntary “wow” out of everyone’s mouth. There is plenty to choose from but in this list, we detail some of Central America’s most stunning natural wonders. This is what awaits you when you touch down in Central America:
Guatemala, Lake Atitlán
Lago Atitlán is a beautiful volcanic lake 1,500 meters above sea level. Being considered the most beautiful lake in the world, it’s enough to say that the serene views are impeccable. With hills and volcanoes surrounding the lake, (Atitlán, Tolimán, and San Pedro – The Three Giants) there are more than enough viewing points to admire the deep blue waters of this special place.
Guatemala, Volcanoes surrounding Antigua
Antigua is a colonial city with all the pretty views and cobblestone streets to make you feel like you’re in a fairytale. The real wonder, though, is the surrounding volcanoes. In particular, visitors enjoy the ability to see volcanic activity ( a favorite being the water volcano) without leaving the city. There are also several tours that allow you to hike and explore up close, and even sleep overnight!
Costa Rica, National Parks
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Costa Rica is synonymous with the wild. Connecting with nature — in all forms — is a given in this part of Central America. Along the coast, you’ll find thick jungles aside beaches, and even waterfalls and hills around the rest of the country. The plentiful national parks always draw attention from visitors wanting to connect with the flora and fauna of this tropical land. Two national parks worth visiting are Parque Nacional Cahuita in Límon and Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio.
Panama, Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is the Panamanian island destination that doesn’t hold back on the views. Compromised of several islands, Bocas del Toro is quintessentially Caribbean, with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches to prove it. Playa Estrella (Starfish beach) and Playa Bluff are just two examples of beaches that make the region so admired.
Belize, Great Blue Hole
Belize is, in a word, gorgeous. By far the country’s top tourist attraction is the Great Blue Hole, which is a giant marine sinkhole on the coast, in Lighthouse Reef. The crystal clear water and impressive shades of blue make this a perfect day trip for scuba divers and lovers of Earth’s mysterious natural wonders.
Nicaragua, Ometepe - Ojo de Agua
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Ometepe is an island location that will truly speak to the soul. Ask anyone who has visited and any Nicaraguan; they will tell you that it is simply unreal. Ojo de Agua, a lagoon neatly positioned between two volcanoes, is a testament to that fact. With waters that come directly from the volcano, the natural pool has healing properties and its crystal clear waters remain popular yet picturesque for this reason.
Honduras, Río Plátano Bbiosphere Reserve
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Located in the heart of the Honduran Miskito coast, the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve is one of Honduras’ hidden treasures. The cultural richness and the fact that in 2011, UNESCO placed the site on the World Heritage in Danger List, is one of the many reasons to add the Río Plátano to your list. Being one of the last few remaining tropical rainforests in Central America which slopes down to the Caribbean Sea, it is the tropical boat trip you never knew you needed.
El Salvador, Chorros De La Calera
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If you’re into waterfalls and want them in abundance, we got you. Chorros De La Calera is a moss-covered natural wonder located in Juayúa in southwest El Salvador. There might not be a more perfect place to cool off from the heat than in the shimmering natural pools surrounded by crashing falls, chirping birds, and mountainous surrounding views.
Related: 9 Best Beaches In Límon, Costa Rica You Should Visit On Your Next Trip To Central America