Rich with stunning natural wonders, an amazing array of unique wildlife, ancient archaeological treasures, and opportunities for adventures in the outdoors, Central America is sandwiched between North and South America. It stretches between the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, from Belize in the north to Panama in the south.

With its abundance of coastline, a visit to Central America can be focused on beach relaxation. Or, if you prefer, study the ancient civilizations, tour colonial cities and hike the rolling hills and towering peaks inland. Resorts in Central America range from remote jungle lodges to cosmopolitan high-rise hotels, and from oceanfront bungalows to mountain accommodations.

Belize (Belize) Select At the base of the Yucatan Peninsula, Belize is comprised of mainland bordering Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, as well as a number of islands (cayes) off the Caribbean coast. This Central American country presents incredible options for outdoor activities. Here, you will find diving, snorkeling, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and exploring nature at its best. In fact, throughout Belize are dozens of archaeological and national parks, marine and nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries. Each of these protected areas is packed with opportunities for adventure. Magnificent natural attractions in Belize include the Belize Barrier Reef and the Great Blue Hole, world-renowned diving sites. Plus there are ancient Mayan temples, mysterious caves and caverns, pristine tropical forests, rare birds and exotic wildlife.

Costa Rica (Liberia / Guanacaste, San Jose) Select Lying between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica stretches across Central America with two coasts, one on the Pacific Ocean and the other on the Caribbean Sea. Rugged highlands are found in the interior of the country, as well as a number of active volcanoes. Its many rivers and stream attract kayakers and rafters from all over the world. In fact, Costa Rica is an adventure lover's playground. Sail through the trees on a zipline canopy tour, hike the hills to scenic waterfalls, and tour the amazing national parks and biological reserves to admire lush vegetation. You'll see some exotic wildlife, such as toucans, spider monkeys, crocodiles and iguanas. Costa Rica's golden and black sand beaches range from secluded surf sites to more developed coastline bustling with activity.

El Salvador (San Salvador) Select Next to Guatemala and Honduras, and bordering the Pacific Ocean, El Salvador beckons with its craggy mountains and volcanic landscape. Get to know the friendly, welcoming people who live in El Salvador. Generally speaking, the country sees fewer tourists than some of its other more developed neighbors. This makes it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic Central American vacation.

Guatemala (Guatemala City) Select The Mayan heartland of Central America, Guatemala is a colorful country. Tour ancient Mayan ruins, such as the impressive site of Tikal, with towering pyramids looming above thick jungle. Archaeologists from all over the world visit Tikal to study the remnants of once thriving civilization. Tikal National Park is just one of the country's 30 protected areas, which also include biological reserves that are home to a wide variety of insects, animals, plants and birds, such as the small but beautiful quetzal. While you're visiting Guatemala, you'll likely learn about the Mayan culture, folklore and traditions. Admire the handicrafts and the brightly colored weavings and textiles in natives' everyday dress. For your accommodations in Guatemala, choose from historic inns, jungle lodges and modern hotels.

Panama (Panama City) Select Exotic tropical rainforests, cool mountain refuges, Caribbean style beaches and a hip capital city all await you in Panama, a Central American destination that is growing quickly in popularity. In fact, it has been named one of the best countries in the world to move to after you retire; many folks visit Panama on vacation, then determine that it's where they'd like to spend their golden years! Visitors find the locals friendly and accommodating: English is spoken nearly everywhere and the U.S. dollar is the currency used throughout Panama. Of course, one of the most popular sightseeing visits in Panama is the Panama Canal, an engineering feat that joins two oceans. Tour the countryside along the canal, or take a boat trip, and enjoy the scenic landscapes while admiring the mechanics of the canal's lock system. While this man made attraction is indeed phenomenal, Panama's natural wonders are stunning as well. Tour lush rainforests, relax on palm fringed beaches and snorkel off the coast to view colorful marine life.

Belize  Costa Rica  El Salvador  Guatemala  Panama