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Central America: Rainforests & Beaches
Tropical rainforests, smoldering volcanoes, and Mayan ruins; Caribbean and Pacific beaches with crashing surf and vibrant coral reefs this is Central America. By sea, view whales and turtles; by land, watch for sloths and monkeys. Costa Rica is known for its national parks and eco-tourism; Panama has the Panama Canal, one of the world’s great feats of engineering.
Take a cruise between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, or visit Panama City for some shopping. Whether you want an eco-adventure, a trek through the rainforest, or an adventure on the Panama Canal, we can take you there.
Central America
at a Glance
Travel to Central America: U.S. Citizens are not required to acquire a visa for short vacations to Panama and Costa Rica. To visit Costa Rica, bring your valid passport and return tickets (or travel documentation for your next destination). You’ll need to show proof of funds for your stay and will need to pay a departure tax of $29 U.S. dollars when you leave. The rules are similar in Panama, but make sure your passport is valid for at least three months and bring proof that you have at least $500 in your bank account. Panama’s departure tax is frequently raised. Check before you go.
The best time to visit Central America is between December and April, which is the dry season in most of the region. Temperatures vary from country to country, ranging from lows of 50°F to highs of 90°F, and are normally lower in areas of higher elevation, like mountains.
Top Things to Do in Central America
Explore Costa Rica’s National Parks
One quarter of Costa Rica is national park; hike a lush rainforest, explore the active Arenal Volcano, or watch for birds, like the resplendent quetzal.
Surf Beach, Swim Beach, Stroll Beach
Costa Rica has a beach to match every mood and adventure surf the beaches of Puntarenas, swim in the calm waters of Playa Tambor, or walk along Playa Montezuma, dotted with beautiful waterfalls.
Yoga, Spa, and Spirit
Costa Rica is known for its incredible spa, yoga retreats, and wellness resorts.
Cruise the Panama Canal
Cruise from the Atlantic to the Pacific and visit the Panama Canal’s locks engineering marvels that allow passage of marine traffic above sea level.
Get Active
Hike Volcán Barú in Panama (on a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans); go snorkeling or diving, or golf on courses certified by Audubon in Costa Rica.
