Travelling in Central America

A region that can often be overlooked when it comes to planning a round the world itinerary and yet it’s a backpackers dream. The incredible beauty; offers a selection of outdoor activities such as the world class diving to be enjoyed off Belize and Guatemala, amazing rainforest trekking in Costa Rica and Nicaragua; and some outstanding beaches throughout the region, especially on it’s eastern Caribbean coastline. There is also the mind boggling cultural sites to be explored across Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras where Mayan, Aztec and other early Indian civilisations existed long before the European settlers arrived.

Some Central American Highlights

• Trek the shores of Lake Atitlan. For the more adventurous (and fit!) you can also climb Mt Atitlan that sits on it’s banks – the views from the summit are stunning.
• Try some world class diving in the Caribbean waters of Honduras - the Bay Islands of Rotan, Utila and Trilo are outstanding.
• Explore the Mayan ruins that are scattered across Central America – huge structures that still command outstanding views of their rainforest surroundings.
• Trek the rainforests, learning about the flora and fauna unique to this incredible region

Central America and round the world tickets

Now much more accessible, Central America is fast becoming a popular destination as airline alliances have welcomed a host of smaller carriers. Mexico City is the ideal airport to use as an entry and exit point for the region, with overland travel thereafter, cheap and relatively easy to use. Some round the world tickets available, offer further stops and internal flights giving the traveller much more opportunity to explore this vast region.

As an alternative you could also travel south from the USA into Mexico. This is a popular route, although visa restrictions do apply with a maximum three months available from the USA Immigration Department.

See some great round the world options that take you via Central America - more

How best to get around

If you’re looking to travel down from North America then you would be well advised to take the train. It’s a great experience as you pass through this barren landscape. Northern Mexico is much less inhabited than the south, but be sure to make a couple of stops and meet the real cowboys!
An extensive bus and coach network exists throughout Central America. It’s cheap with frequent services along major routes; however be aware journey times can be long. The standard of service can vary depending on your location.

Money

Central America is a cheap place to travel and backpackers on a budget will find the going easy. The US dollar is very much the currency of choice and we recommend you use dollar traveller cheques as well. ATM’s are available in most towns and cities although planning ahead is advisable as bank facilities are limited in the hinterland regions.