Once overlooked by travellers for its more westernised neighbour to the north, and for the cultural melting pot that grows gigantically to the south, Central America is now fast becoming a hotbed of tourism for travellers looking to find a more untouched, culturally-intact alternative to their giants on either side.With rich and diverse culture stemming from the mix of native and Spanish influence, food that became world-famous long before tourism of region did, and some of the world’s most insanely awe-inspiring scenery you could ever hope to rest your exhilarated eyes upon, Central America should really be the place to visit if you’re intrepid and ready for nature at its purest.Read on to become inspired by what this incredulously pristine part of the world has to offer.
Snorkel the Belize Barrier Reef
The colour and serenity of the Reef, stretching all the way down the gorgeous tropical coastline of Belize, is something that any snorkeler or scuba diver will want to add to their checklist of trips, and then check it off as soon as they possibly can. The Reef, the second largest in the world (after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef), is brimming with tropical sea life and opportunities to swim with some of the world’s most majestic creatures like whale sharks and nurse sharks.
Active Volcano Climbing in Guatemala
Perhaps not for those who have a genuine fear of being near a volcano if it just so happens to erupt when you’re there. However, if you fancy yourself as a fearless thrill seeker then climb through Guatemala’s terrain, which is dotted with active volcanoes like Pacaya where you can climb to its active summit. The experience of being right near the smouldering ash of a volcano is like no other, and something you will remember for a very long time.
Kayak Isla Juan Venado
Buzzing with incredible wildlife and swimming holes, this untouched nature reserve of mangrove swamps and caiman alligators in Nicaragua is perfect for taking in some pristine landscape from a kayak. If you fear the snap of caiman directed towards you whilst in the relative precariousness of a kayak, then there are also motorboat tours on offer where you will feel much more at ease as you glide through this beautifully preserved part of the world.
White Water Raft the Viejo
An extreme step up from the relatively more tranquil kayak, white water rafting in the Viejo River, Costa Rica, is for the traveling adrenaline junkie. Glide through winding rapids on classes entitled “Get Out if You Can” and “Fear”. If you are more of a beginner to the sport, you probably won’t want to take these on, and we here at South American Tourism really shouldn’t advise you to. There are more friendlier rapids to take on in rivers like the Esti, perfect for beginners and families.
These are a few of the many ways in which Central America is an adventurer’s paradise. Its untamed wilderness of mountains, swamps, and jungles make for the perfect thrill seek, and we would love to help you get there. South America Tourism offers a range of different packages for adventuring in Central America, with deals like our Pacuare Lodge offering Costa Rican white water rafting and Ambergris Caye putting you in one of the best locations for exploring the serene underwater life of Belize.
