Central America

With short, direct flights from Canada it wasn’t long until I made my first jump to Central America. Costa Rica has been my love in this region so far with a total of 5 trips made to return to my fav spots and add new detours within the country each time. A nature lover’s heaven with miles and miles of beaches. A must do for any animal lover. Belize was all about the underwater kingdom and dreamy multi coloured blue seas. An easy jump to visit the famed Blue Hole! My latest adventure for 2020 includes a return to Costa Rica en route to Panama.

Top 5 Beaches for Sun lovers in Central America

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches in Central America . Choose a coast and start exploring!

Playa Montezuma - Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
The laid back artsy town of Montezuma and its namesake beach have been a long time favourite destination. This beach starts just North of the town with plush white sand, ruggedly beautiful coastline views and safe swimming. Not always so easy to find in CR. Monkeys and toucans are regular visitors to the entire coast with little development to interfere with Nature. The sunsets from this spot are divine and if you are feeling adventurous; there are dozens of beaches to be explored and drooled over up the coast. Rent an ATV to cover the terrain easily.
Playa Paradiso , Boca Chicca Panama
Panama has very budget friendly tour options and it was on one of these that I discovered the stunning beach Playa Paradiso. It means exactly what you think. A gorgeous calm semi circle bay with warm calm water. It was the first beach that made my heart sing in Panama. The white sand is soft and backed by lush jungle. There is one restaurant that serves cold beer and decent, if expensive food. There is a hiking path that you can take to explore up the hills and behind the beach but I chose to spend the entire time in the perfect warm sea. Extra bonus – just 3 muinutes away there are other pristine amazing tiny islands with other white sand beaches. If you have a private boat, you can explore whatever you like!
Playa Uvita - Costa Ballena, Costa Rica
My most recent favourite spot in Costa Rica. Playa Uvita is rugged with spectacular wild views. Whale spotting is a regular occurence and the waves are perfect for surfing. Further off the tourist trail. your odds of enjoying a stretch to yourself are high. A hugely popular, bohemian festival called Envision happens close by every February to add to the appeal..
South West Bay, Providence Colombia
This tiny spec of an island captured my heart in 2019 and of all the beaches, the gentle curve of South West Bay made my beach dreams reality. With a small village and few buildings on the beach, South West Bay is a true natural beauty. Calm blissful blue water, plentiful sunshine and handmade cocktails all around! I ended up renting an apartment and spending the rest of my time in Colombia becoming friends with the locals and enjoying island life. I would go back in a heartbeat.
Punta Uva, Porto Viejo, Costa Rica
Punta Uva beach has it all. Sparkling calm waters, blinding beauty and charming personality. You can safely swim, snorkel or just float around for hours. It’s just a ways from the main town but still full of amenities and local flavours. The river and national park are very close by and offer amazing opportunities for animal spotting and water tours. Kayaking up the river under sloths was truly memorable.

Top 5 Adventures for Nature lovers in Central America

My top choices for animals, divine views and off the beaten path adventure . So far!
Check out the specific country guides (as they get posted) for more ideas.

1. Hiking in the Clouds – Monteverde Costa Rica

Monteverde is one of the gorgeuos Cloud Forests in Costa Rica. I loved walked through the clouds, over long supspension bridges with spectacular views from every direction. If you love animals, the high humid jungle is jammed with creatures large & small. Get yourself a good guide to help point out all the wonderful creatures that blend in to the untrained eye. The huge number of colourful frogs here was amazing!

2.Snorkeling the Blue Hole – Caye Caulker, Belize

Almost everyone is familiar with the world biggest sinkhole that resides very close to Belize. This 313 metre perfect hole is a magnet for divers and underwater lovers. There are only 3 entrances into the circle and tour companies usually go to the biggest. There currents are strong but the chances of seeing some amazing underwater creatures big and small is high. Keep with your group and descend into the gap to experience the Great Blue Hole!

3. Exploring extinct Volcano craters – Anton Valley, Panama

Three hours North of Panama city and easily accessible via the Trans Pacific high way; this gorgeous region wasn’t even on my radar. Nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano with its own micro climate. Surrounded by mountains and a cloud forest you can see a wide variety of landscapes in a short time. Bird lovers will adore the huge variety of colourful residents. Hiking is the main thing to enjoy here. Breathe in the clear, crisp air and enjoy the views.

4. Waterfall Hopping – Costa Rica

Costa Rica is blessed with a huge number of waterfalls. You could centre your whole trip in CR around waterfalls and never get bored. From little rapids to spectacular 270 ft drops into empty caverns. Some even have warm and therapeutic pools at their bases for swimming! Some of my favourites to enjoy in CR are below. Do not miss visiting!

Rio Celeste Waterfall
La Fortuna Waterfall
Uvita Waterfall
Montezuma Waterfall
Nauyaca Waterfalls

5. Whale Watching – Bahia Ballena Costa Rica

If you visit the Southern Pacific of Costa Rica during the months of July to mid November and from mid December to April, you are in for a real treat! Pacific humpback whales amongst others are known to frequent the area and you might even be able to spot them from the shore. Make sure to also visit the iconic “whales tail” beach. So cool!

When Should I go to Central America?

All Countries
the best time to visit Central America is late November to early April which is the dry season. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry and sunshiney .
Caribbean Coast
The Caribbean coast of both Panama & Costa Rica (Puerto Viejo and Bocas) always recieve more rain during the year. September to early November is the dry season on this side and gives you the most consistent sunshine. While it does rain almost daily, they are usually short showers that still let you enjoy half the day or more. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF),

Some of my favourite experiences in Central America

This is one of my fav regions in the world! There is so much to see and do for Nature lovers!

1. Witnessing flying Mantas at dawn – Caye Caulker; Belize

I love getting up just before dawn, grabbing my flip flops and heading out to witness the world waking up. It was one of these random wanders that led me to “The Split” in Caye Caulker just as the first rays of sunshine were simmering under the horizons. I saw 2 leaping mantas out fo the corner of my eye. At first I couldn’t understand what I was seeing but luckily it happened a few more times. My jaw dropped when I realized what I was seeing! Later I found out they are known to frequent the split due to the strong currents and many food sources. If you visit the island, go try your luck at dawn too <3 [/av_textblock] [av_hr class='invisible' height='25' shadow='no-shadow' position='center' custom_border='av-border-thin' custom_width='50px' custom_border_color='' custom_margin_top='30px' custom_margin_bottom='30px' icon_select='yes' custom_icon_color='' icon='ue808' font='entypo-fontello' av_uid='av-1zajy-22' id='' custom_class='' admin_preview_bg=''] [av_heading heading='2. Ziplining through the Cloud forest – Monteverde; Costa Rica ' tag='h3' link_apply='' link='manually,http://' link_target='' style='' size='' subheading_active='' subheading_size='15' margin='' padding='10' color='' custom_font='' custom_class='' id='' admin_preview_bg='' av-desktop-hide='' av-medium-hide='' av-small-hide='' av-mini-hide='' av-medium-font-size-title='' av-small-font-size-title='' av-mini-font-size-title='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' av_uid='av-1f2ln8'][/av_heading] [av_textblock size='19' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' av_uid='av-5qhvsm-21' id='' custom_class='' admin_preview_bg=''] monteverde ziplining Combine rain forest canopy explorations with huge, high zip lines? Yes please! Monteverde boasts the longest zip line in Latin America at 1590 meters long. Yeah baby yeah! It was amazing feeling the wind rip through your hair as you careen across valleys and low clouds. A serious must do for adrenaline lovers while in the country.

3. Tide pool bathing – Nicoya Peninsula.

tide pool costa rica

We rented an ATV to explore the coast of the Nicoya Penisula while staying in Montezuma. It was on one of the beaches 30 minute drive North, I happened on an giant tidepool big enough to climb in and enjoy some up close time with the sea creatures that had been left behind by low tide. I LOVE tide pools in general but they are usually quite small. This one was HUGE, around the size of an Olympic sized pool. You can find it between Playa Hermosa and Playa Santa Teresa. I will always visit this spot when I’m in the area <3 [/av_textblock] [av_hr class='invisible' height='25' shadow='no-shadow' position='center' custom_border='av-border-thin' custom_width='50px' custom_border_color='' custom_margin_top='30px' custom_margin_bottom='30px' icon_select='yes' custom_icon_color='' icon='ue808' font='entypo-fontello' av_uid='av-1zajy-18' id='' custom_class='' admin_preview_bg=''] [av_heading heading='4. Beach BBQ’s with fish straight from the sea & fresh coconuts off the tree. Providence; Colombia' tag='h3' link_apply='' link='manually,http://' link_target='' style='' size='' subheading_active='' subheading_size='15' margin='' padding='10' color='' custom_font='' custom_class='' id='' admin_preview_bg='' av-desktop-hide='' av-medium-hide='' av-small-hide='' av-mini-hide='' av-medium-font-size-title='' av-small-font-size-title='' av-mini-font-size-title='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' av_uid='av-14sq24'][/av_heading] [av_textblock size='19' font_color='' color='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' av_uid='av-5qhvsm-17' id='' custom_class='' admin_preview_bg=''] providence fisherman

I adored this tiny island for their simple way of life. The fishermen go out for the day and you can meet them on the beach to see what they caught. I was super lucky to have a big yummy snapper cooked for me on the beach over a fire with a homemade bamboo grill. It was so amazing to see how they prepared the fish, making gashes just so. A few fresh herbs and a wrap in foil was all it took. Thirsty? One of the local boys climbed up and got us a few coconuts. It was so cool to see how fast they could open them and even carve out a spoon to make sure I was able to enjoy the meat inside as well. Ah Island life. You are the best.

5. Being in the middle of a large troupe of playing squirrel monkeys – Bahia Ballena; Costa Rica

Sometimes you are in the right spot at the right time. It helps that I love to randomly explore and will set off on foot in whatever direction. That was the case when I first got to this local neighbourhood near Uvita. We had rented an Air B n B down the road and I was exploring the neighborhood. To my delight I saw a row of tiny monkeys going across one of the rear fences of a home that was visible from the road. I stayed there admiring them for at least 10 minutes when the owner of the house came out. He insisted I came inside and back to the rear deck to get a closer look. It was so AMAZING!! A huge troupe of 30-40 monkeys were playing and splashing in his pool. Apparently his house is on their daily route. I could have stayed all day.

Best way to travel around Central America

tica bus Travel in Central America & Colombia can be quite affordable. Stick to public transportation, find people to split rides with or even hitch hike! There are lots of options to choose from depending on your budget and how much time you can spend in transit. Speed usually costs $$$

PUBLIC TRANSIT OPTIONS:

Join the locals for short jaunts on the “Chicken” Buses! For under $1 these buses are used by everyone. People hop on and off and they usually hold more people that you would hope. It’s a fun and inexpensive way to see the local area. Don’t sit too close to the chickens!

BUS OPTIONS:

Longer bus rides to the coast or between coutries are served by a few lines in the region. The buses are larger, airconditioned with room for your luggage underneath. They aren’t super comfy but a step up from the chicken buses. Shuttle buses can be a great value and usually shuttle people between popular spots. You can easily find the service at most hotels or travel agencies where you are. TICABUS is one of the bigger companies in the region.

SHARED RIDE OPTIONS:

Uber isn’t technically legal in CR but it has been available and in use since 2015. They are generally cheaper than taxis but DO NOT order one to pick you up from the airport. The locals do not like it. If you’re taking a taxi, negotiate your fare up front. They are not metered and you will be over charged if you just jump in.

FLIGHTS OPTIONS:

I find inter region flights to be on the expensive side for Central America. Routes are limited and you’re hard pressed to find anything under $200 one way, even with tons of flexibility. Book well in advance if you need flights and don’t assume flights are an option.

I use Momondo & SkyScanner to find the best deals. Some airlines require you to book on their own sites.

Packing Tips & Hacks for Central America

What to bring and some tips to make life easier while you’re there! Please note pack lists are only for Summer travel.

Less is always more! No matter how long are you are travelling for, you will be packing for 7-9 days of mix and match outfits. Clothes for all body types can be found in Europe so you can always buy something if you need it. Europe can get cool in the evenings and sometimes the trains / buses are too cold so make sure you bring layers.

Clothes

yoga pants – lightweight and comfy. You will wear this on any plane rides, overnight bus rides.
capri pants – basic black or white
1 hoodie with extra long sleeve and hood – lightweight (plane & cold train rides)
1 compressable vest to layer over hoodie as needed
1 long sleeve shirt..very light but comfy. Use as above & cool nights.
2-3 shorts – lightweight only. Skorts counts. Casual to Dressy
1 T shirt – nice quality and flattering. Easy dry.
1-3 dresses! Weight is everything. Short, light & colorful.
7 underwear – I split with 2 brief style/ 5 thongs
1 Bra – good quality can go with anything fall back. I usually use my bikini tops for everyday beach life.
2-3 Bikini Tops Bring a basic black, light colour & something fun. Doubles as bras 😉
2 bikini Bottoms – to complement or match the above.
1 pair socks ( I hate socks)
1 pair runners or adventure shoes ( flip flops with straps count if you stay on the beach)
1 pair flip flops

Other Key Gear

Sarong! Can be used as a beach towel, wrap, dress or emergency towel /blanket
Umbrella for sun or rain
Scarf – lightweight, warm & colourful
Travel Towel – worth the investment for a SMALL quick dry towel that doesn’t take up space.
Combination or keyed lock
Ziplock bags – 2 XL, 2 Large and 3 small
Waterproof Bag – bring a small one, buy a big one there
Carabineers – at least 2 good ones.
LED lights – small lightweight
Phone charging cable – extra long
Power Banks (2) light weight and charged
Day Bag – I like a drawer string type.
Unlock Phone
Mini Tri Pod
Camera of Choice
Ipad ( for longer trips, worth the effort to haul it)
Mosquito Net

Toiletries & Medical Kit

Tweezers – a girls best friend
Mirror – plastic small
Razors – I pack one for every 3 days
Nail file
Q-tips
Tampons! Your brand may not be available- but something will be.
Liners – just a couple
Body Cream – under 50 ml and quality
Foundation – use travel size or transfer to dollar store craft paint jars
Eyeshadow – Basic trio only
Eyeliner- waterproof
Mascara – travel size waterproof
Perfume – sample vials only
Tooth brush
Tooth Paste – travel size
Floss
Deodorant – travel size
Hair bands / clips
Sunblock

Bug Spray – always bring good quality spray with a proven record. You don’t want issues, trust me.
Band- Aids waterproof.
Hydro cortisone cream
Polysporine – I usually use a tiny container.
Hand Sanitizer – keep this looped to your day bag
Paracetamol or Non Aspirin pain killers
Muscle cream (travel size or mostly empty)
Ear plugs ( Dorm life)
Vaseline – tiny travel pot (great for waterproofing ouchies)
Hair Brush

What will you spend in Central America ?

Central America costs vary through the countries with Costa Rica being the most expensive, then Panama. You can still visit both on a budget, just takes a bit of planning or flexibility.

Accomodations
Accommodation costs can really vary in Central America. Costa Rica will tend to cost you more in most of the categories and costs fall dramatically in lesser traveled countries like Nicaragua. I tend to stick to the coast and close to the beach which can still be found for a decent price but will cost you more than staying inland. If you are staying longer, seek out an apartment to rent by the week or month. The costs below reflect the prices in the 2 countries I have been Costa Rica and Belize.

HOSTELS – Hostel dorms cost between 18-25 CAD per night, depending on location, conveniences. Most hostels offer free wifi and lockers. Breakfast is offered in some packages, it’s important to check their inclusions and policies. I’ve found a ton of super cool hostels in Costa Rica.

AIR- BNB – A great option to stay in local neighbourhoods and save some cash verses hotels! I’ve stayed in some super cool vintage buildings. Be forewarned that peoples private homes are comfortable and have amenities according to the local way. For those like myself that love being immersed in all things local and developing longer term routines…this is the way to go. Even for short stays it broadens your location options and gives your experience more depth. Private rooms in shared homes start at $30 CAD and whole apartments can be found for $60 CAD.
Transportation
The trick to keep your budget on track is to avoid private car rentals if at all possible. You pay a premium, are subject to possible scams AND the car sits most of the time as you explore the areas. Buses are definitely the cheapest for under $1 CAD per ride. In Central America it’s also quite acceptable to hitchhike and I’ve grabbed a few rides from kind strangers in my time. Always use common sense before accepting offers. Fellow travelers are eager to share expenses and generally a safe bet.

If you need to rent a car, it will cost you $80 for 48 hours with insurance coverage. More if you drop off to a different location. Ouch.
Food
Great food can be found on a budget in Central America . I would recommend sticking to small road side mom & pop shops where you can find local specialties. Sticking to these for a day’s meal will cost you $15-25 CAD /day. Better yet, go to one of the local markets and buy things to throw together like local fruits, bread and juice! This will equal big savings and help you to really sample the true flavours of the country. Eat like the locals and avoid “Western” food as you will pay 3x the price. A great Costa Rican meal will be under $12 CAD.
Activities
There are so many cool activities and experiences to be had in Central America! If you stick to guided tours and experiences you will be paying a [premium, especially in Costa Rica. I recommend not booking anything in advance and negotiating a price directly with the vendors. A half day excursion including lunch will run you $80- 100 CAD while full days adventures are $150 CAD and up . I find you can do alot on your own to keep the costs down. There are a ton of free activities that you can enjoy in Central America that cost nothing.
Drinks
If you stick to the local beer and liquor (Guaro) costs can be quite reasonable. Beers are $2 CAD and mixed cocktails with Rum or Guaro $3. Of course beach side locations will add a surcharge so expect to pay a few dollars more.

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