28 Bucket List Things to Do in Central America
Central America offers adventures that you will not want to overlook, from seeing the most turquoise blue waterfalls and volcanos in Costa Rica to exploring the Mayan Ruins and cave tubing in Belize. This bucket list covers experiences in Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. Below are 28 bucket list things to do in Central America.
Country #1: Honduras
#1: Explore the Maya city of Copan–
A top place to visit in Honduras is the Maya city of Copan. Exploring the Mayan ruins, temples, pyramids, tunnels, and museums will be an unforgettable experience.
Mayan City of Copan Tour
#2: Be Mesmerized by the Pulhapanzak Waterfall-
Marvel at one of the largest waterfalls in Honduras, sitting at 140 feet tall on a tour.
Pulhapanzak Waterfall Tour
Country #2: Belize
#3: Witness Black Howler Monkeys-
The Black Howler Monkey is the largest monkey in Belize. Book a guided tour to the Howler Monkey Sanctuary and Belize Zoo.
Howler Monkey Sanctuary Tour
#4: See Jaguars at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary-
The nature reserve is home to jaguars, parrots, black howler monkeys, and toucans. The hiking trails in the Sanctuary lead to beautiful waterfalls and natural landscapes.
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary Tickets
#5: Swim at the A.T.M. Cave–
The Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave was a sacred Cave for Ancient Mayas. You can book a full-day tour to experience this incredible sight. You will swim in natural pools through tunnels lined with stalactites, stalagmites, ancient ceramics, and stoneware.
A.T.M. Cave Tour
#6: Cave Tubing-
Cave Tubing Adventures begins with a hike in the rainforest. Then you start your journey through the Caves of Belize in your singular tube. One of the best places to go cave tubing is near Altun Ha. Altun Ha is a Mayan ruin featuring 13 temples. Book your tour for cave tubing, zip lining, and the Mayan Ruins.
Cave Tubing and Mayan Ruins Tour
#7: Mayan Ruins-
Did you know there are more Maya Ruins per square mile in Belize than in any other country? The best place to see the majestic ruins is at San Ignacio.
Cave Tubing and Mayan Ruins Tour
#8: Cayes Islands-
The Cayes are a group of small islands in Belize situated on the coast known for their stunning coral reefs. The largest and most developed of these cayes is Ambergris Caye. Another popular Caye to visit is Caye Caulker.
Caye Caulker Islands Tour
#9: Hol Chan National Park–
Hol Chan National Park is within Ambergris Caye. Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of the best to see along the Belize Barrier Reef. The best way to appreciate the reef is by putting on snorkel gear and exploring! You can do a 7-stop snorkel tour to swim with reef sharks in Shark Valley.
7 Stop Snorkel Tour
#10: San Ignacio Farmers Market–
If you travel to San Ignacio in the Cayo District, the farmers market is a must-do. The delicious fruits and vegetables offered are native to the area.
San Ignacio Farmer’s Market
#11: Snorkeling in the Blue Hole-
The Blue Hole, located along the Belize Barrier Reef, is a dark blue circle surrounded by turquoise water and bright green coral. The Blue Hole formed 10,000 years ago when a cave collapsed. It is a scuba divers’ paradise. If you prefer to go snorkeling, then you can. The best spot to go snorkeling is along the edge of the hole, where you can check out the corals and marine life.
7 Stop Snorkel Tour
Country #3: Guatemala
#12: Climb Volcan Pacaya–
Pacaya is one of Guatemala’s most active volcanos and has recently formed fresh lava flows. If you do decide to climb this volcano, BE CAREFUL and book a tour!
Climb this Volcano
13: Swim in Semuc Champey–
Featuring crystal-clear green-blue natural swimming pools created by nature, this location in the Guatemalan jungle is a “must-visit” for every traveler in the area.
Seumuc Chamney Tour
#14: Tikal Jungle–
Tikal National Park is situated in the Petén Province of Northern Guatemala. The jungle surroundings of Tikal have led to the Mayan ruins being partially surrounded by trees and plants, creating an air of mystery and exploration.
Tikal National Park Mayan Ruins Tour
#15: Volcan Acatenango –
The Acatenango Volcano is a remarkable climb, reaching 13,041 ft. The hike to the summit is strenuous and can take up to six hours. Hikers should be in good physical condition.
Climb Acatenango Volcano
Country #4: Costa Rica
#16: Rio Negro Hot Springs–
The natural thermal springs in Costa Rica are SO relaxing.
Rio Negro Hot Springs Tour
#17: Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall Tour–
Costa Rica has six active volcanoes and 61 dormant or extinct ones. Arenal Volcano is the most famous active volcano in Costa Rica. Nearby you will find La Fortuna Waterfall. The waterfall is a must-visit for anyone already in the area!
Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall Tour
#18: Rio Celeste Waterfall–
The Rio Celeste Waterfall is one of the most beautiful blue-colored waterfalls I have ever seen. Book the tour to see beautiful plants and animals as you hike in the rainforest to the waterfall, swim in an area nearby, and stop at a SLOTH sanctuary.
Rio Celeste and Sloth Sanctuary Tour
#19: Sloth Sanctuary–
Visiting a sloth sanctuary in Costa Rica is a unique experience. You will observe sloths in their natural habitat. The binoculars will allow you to spot these charming creatures as they lazily hang from branches better. Keep an eye out for colorful tree frogs and exotic birds amongst the rainforest and backdrop of a volcano, which adds to the breathtaking scenery.
Rio Celeste and Sloth Sanctuary Tour
#20: Whitewater Raft Pacuare River–
This river in Costa Rica is beautiful and what better way to experience it than whitewater rafting through it?
Go Whitewater Rafting
Country #5: Panama
#21: Discover Panama City and Canal Tour-
Panama City is the capital of Panama and you can book a tour to see the Panama Canal from this location! The Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Panama Canal Tour
#22: Valle De Anton–
El Valle de Anton is a beautiful mountain town in Panama nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano. Specifically, you will find the world’s second-largest extinct volcano! WOW, now that is worth visiting.
Valle de Anton Tour
#23: Bocas Del Toro Island Hopping–
Bocas del Toro is on the Caribbean coast of Panama known for its stunning natural beauty. Book an island hopping tour for the time of your life! You can also book a Bioluminescence Snorkeling and Boat Experience in the area.
Bocas del Toro Island Hopping
#24: San Blas Islands Tour-
The San Blas Islands are known for their white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and coral reefs.
San Blas Islands Tour
Country #6: El Salvador
#25: Suchitoto–
Suchitoto in El Salvador has well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. The architecture incorporates whitewashed buildings and red-tiled roofs. Don’t forget to visit cultural centers, galleries, museums, and handicraft stores in El Salvador.
Suchitoto Tour
#26: Surf in El Salvador-
According to most sources, the best place to surf in El Salvador is Playa Sunzal because of the consistent, quality waves. Sunzal Beach is the perfect spot for beginners to learn to surf.
Surf in El Salvador
Country #7: Nicaragua
#27: Corn Islands–
The Corn Islands are perfect for you to visit if you are looking for a tropical paradise getaway.
Find things to do in the Corn Islands
#28: Admire Granada–
The colorful streets and year-round warm weather make Granada worth visiting. Book the Granada City Tour to learn about the history and culture of Granada with a local guide.
Granada Tour
We shared 28 bucket list things to do in Central America. There are so many incredible adventures waiting for you in Central America. So pack your essentials and prepare to create memories in Central America!
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