Trending Destinations in Central America

Featuring steep volcanoes, ancient ruins hidden in jungles and tropical coastlines, it’s easy to see why many travellers are drawn to alluring Central America. Who can resist Mexico’s sensational street food, Belize’s epic snorkelling, Guatemala’s stunning contrasts of cities vs nature, or Costa Rica’s wildlife? Our Central America tours are some of our most popular for a reason; check out its hottest destinations below!

Climb Guatemala’s Epic Acatenango Volcano 🌋

If you’re craving a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Guatemala has got it! The hike to the summit of Acatenango Volcano is challenging yet immensely rewarding, as you trail over rocky terrain and gaze out at the cloud skies beneath your feet. 

While some travellers choose to do a day hike here, there’s no experience quite like staying overnight. Especially when there’s a spectacular fire show waiting, with glowing lava bursts from Fuego Volcano in the distance! That and the dark, starry night skies make it the most magical evening to remember.

Get A Taste of Oaxaca, Mexico’s Culinary Capital 🌮

Food in Oaxaca is more than something to be savoured and enjoyed; it’s a way of life! With a powerful Indigenous identity, Oaxaca is a show-stopping, vibrant fusion of over a dozen different cultures. In just a single trip to Oaxaca, you can taste the culinary traditions and also try dishes that are always evolving - thanks to the city’s thriving street food scene. 

Mole (cooked chilli sauce), memelas (fried tortillas), tlayudas (like an Oaxacan pizza!)… There is so much incredible food variety that you just need to try it out for yourself. And what better way to finish off one of the best meals of your life than with a shot of Mezcal (local tequila)?

Chase Waterfalls at Río Celeste 😍

Costa Rica is overflowing with natural beauty, and yet, Río Celeste will still take your breath away. When you search up Costa Rica online, this bright, sky blue waterfall surrounded by lush forestland is one of the first sights you’ll find. If you can believe it, it’s even more gorgeous and colourful in person.

See Pink Flamingos on Isla Holbox🦩

Picture swirling milky sands, pale turquoise waters and sprawling palm trees basking in the sunshine. Home to beaches that are the definition of heavenly (even by Mexico’s exceptionally high standards) - and not a single car in sight - Isla Holbox is the dreamy island getaway you have been longing for. 

Life here is all about kicking back in multi-coloured hammocks, hanging out at the rustic beach bars as the sky fades from sunset to starlight, and, of course, seeking out the island’s most famous residents… pink flamingos! If you’re lucky enough to see these bright pink birds perched at shore, it’s sure to be a view to remember. Really, all of Isla Holbox is.

Fall in Love with the Enchanted City of Antigua 🌟

Antigua is Guatemala’s very own fairytale. Nestled inside the breathtaking Guatemalan Highlands, and backed by a ring of volcanoes, there’s a wealth of adventures to be had just outside. And in the heart of Antigua, you’ll find cobblestone streets leading you past candy-coloured, traditional architecture - like a rainbow come to life. 

Even though Antigua is fairly small and super easy to explore on foot, it’s easy to spend hours losing yourself in the local markets, hidden gem alleyways and cosy cafes which take breakfast and coffee to another level of tasty.

Go Snorkelling in Caye Caulker, Belize’s Tropical Paradise 🤿

Bursting with colour and charisma, Caye Caulker is one of those rare destinations where travellers can experience the best of two cultures. Central America meets the Caribbean inside this tropical paradise, and the island’s laidback vibes are so addictive.

From dancing to Reggae music at beach bars, and biting into fresh seafood drizzled with a sizzling Caribbean curry sauce, to swimming alongside friendly manta rays, Caye Caulker is all about living in the moment. Just as memorable is the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve - where you can snorkel among sea turtles, dolphins, colourful coral reefs and even a few manatees (sea cows)!

Embrace Your Inner Indiana Jones at Tikal 🗺️

As you enter Guatemala’s northern jungle, it’s almost like stepping back in time. In the heart of this tropical, jade green rainforest lies Tikal: awe-inspiring ruins of one of the most powerful ancient Mayan civilisations to have existed. From temples and pyramids that reach out to the sky, to howler monkeys and toucans hanging out in the treetops, the atmosphere here feels cinematic. With over 1,100 years of history waiting to be uncovered, it’s a story you’ll want to chase to the end.

Spot Wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park 🦥

Manuel Antonio National Park is quintessential Costa Rica. Its spectacular stretches of white coastline, rainforest-clad mountains and turquoise ocean attract all kinds of phenomenal wildlife - including the iconic three-toed sloth!

Whether you feel like following all the hiking trails to find waterfalls, relaxing on the beaches or experiencing a little bit of everything, Manuel Antonio promises adventure. It’s a favourite spot among travellers on our Costa Rica group tours; soon it could be one of yours, too!

Find Magic in Mexico City 🌆

As one of the largest capital cities in the Americas, Mexico City (CDMX) is more than just vibrant. It’s electrifying. This melting pot offers something special to every kind of traveller, and every adventure is on another level here. Dance the night away at the nightclubs, or uncover the artistic legacy of Frida Kahlo at museums and the famous Casa Azul (where she lived). And who could forget about the food here: blending together all the dishes that make Mexican cuisine so legendary?

Discover Samara, Costa Rica’s Best-Kept Secret 🏖️

Samara is the sleepy, scenic beachside town that you’ll wish you knew about sooner. The definition of a hidden gem, Samara is filled with bronzed sand, crystal-clear waters and gentle waves practically made for surfing - especially for beginners. This paradise destination can match any pace, whether you’re looking to go kayaking, snorkelling, or simply chill. As it’s located in the stunning Guanacaste province, going beach-hopping around the local area is a must.

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Explore Central America with Gap 360 🌎

Now that you know all about the trending destinations in Central America, the next step is to explore it for yourself and see if it lives up to the hype (spoiler alert, it 1000% does!). We offer some incredible trips inside this world region; we’ve also included a few details below to help you to find the right fit!

Epic Central America: 28 days or 40 days

Experience Central America on a whole new level with our Epic Central America trip. Get to know Mexico’s vibrant cities, natural wonders and tropical beaches before diving into Belize and Guatemala. Then you can fly over to Costa Rica and fall in love with its natural beauty! It’s the ultimate way to explore Central America.

Best of Central America: 18 days or 30 days

Our Best of Central America trip lives up to its name! Discover three or four destinations, and start out in Playa Del Carmen on the Mexican coast. This trip is filled with once-in-a-lifetime moments like staying overnight on Acatenango Volcano, snorkelling in Belize and seeing one of the Seven Wonders of the World… Chichén Itzá! A magical trip to Costa Rica is included in the 30-day option.

What’s The Difference Between Best of Central America and Epic Central America?

The difference between our Best of Central America and Epic Central America trips is how long you stay in Mexico. Both have two trip length options, with the longer version of each trip including an adventure around Costa Rica.

On Epic Central America, you’ll start out in Mexico City and have the opportunity to explore incredible locations like Oaxaca, Puebla (where Cinco de Mayo originated!) and Sumidero Canyon - plus lots of local towns and villages! If you want to experience Mexico in-depth, this is the one to go for.

Our Best of Central America trip offers an amazing taster of Mexico, as you land in Cancún and discover amazing places like Playa del Carmen, Bacalar and Túlum - plus ticking one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá, off your bucket list. If you’re a bit shorter on time, yet still want to experience Central America, this trip is a fantastic option!

Which Trip is Suitable for Those Short On Time?

Our 18-day option on the Best of Central America trip is perfect if you’re limited on time! You’ll still be able to tick three destinations off your travel bucket list - with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like snorkelling in Belize and getting to know Antigua, as well as hiking and staying overnight on Acatenango Volcano.

If you need a trip shorter than this one, then our single-country Central America trips could be perfect for you!

Interested in Exploring a Single Country?

If you’d love to explore Central America and prefer a single destination, then we’ve got you covered. Our Pure Costa Rica and Mexico Adventure trips are mini adventures of a lifetime!

Pure Costa Rica (13 days): Rainforests, waterfalls and unspoiled beaches… Escape to Costa Rica for 13 days of tropical paradise! Discover the major highlights and hidden gems, while staying in exclusively twin or triple share rooms, and taking a loop from San José. This trip and destination are amazing for first-time travellers!

Mexico Adventure (14 days): Let Mexico work its magic on you, and prepare to fall in love as you explore the colourful cities, breathtaking beaches and secluded countryside. Dip into cenote pools, explore Mayan ruins (including One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá 👀) and dance the night away with a group of new mates. Geographically North American and culturally Central, Mexico is the ideal introduction to this side of the world!

Feeling inspired to seek out adventure in Central America? This extraordinary region of the world is calling your name, so answer!