5 Must Do Adventures in Central America

We’re all busy grown ups trying to add adventure to this crazy thing we call adulthood and I am here to help you with these 5 off the beaten path adventures you must do in Central America.

If you’ve seen any of my videos or read any of my other blogs, you know that I am a fan of Central America – It is such an underrated and budget friendly destination! I have spent a lot of time there in the last 3-4 years and have visited every country, some more than once. So I’ve put together this list of top 5 adventurous experiences in Central America not to miss out on.

RELAX ON CAYE CAULKER, BELIZE

First up on the list, we have relaxing on Caye Caulker in Belize. Yes, I’ve been there 4 times in the last 2 years and keep making videos and writing about this beautiful spot, but there’s a good reason. Belize is an incredible country with a ton of ocean and wildlife to see, and some of the most incredible shades of turquoise I have come across! If you’re thinking of visiting this gorgeous destination, I recommend staying on Caye Caulker for a true hippie-backpacker adventure. The island is explored on foot, the bars have swings as barstools, ‘go slow’ is the island motto, and without any actual resorts, this feels like an off the beaten path well kept secret to let your inner hippie explore.

exploring the island of Caye Caulker on foot, after a dip into the ocean at the Split

HIKE ACATENANGO, GUATEMALA

Next up is to hike Acatenango in Guatemala. For those looking for a challenge this is it! This was one of the toughest volcano hikes I have done – 6-7 hours uphill through 4 ecological zones carrying a backpack of overnight supplies and 4 Litres of water ensures you arrive at base camp absolutely exhausted. But we all know that the toughest climbs are where we find the best views. After a night camping and with some incredible night skies. you can hike the summit for sunrise. I was too beat from hiking another 3-4 hours to El Fuego at night when I went, but either case, this is a character building adventure for sure. You will certainly have a new understanding of your limits and strength after this! And Guatemala itself is such a wonderful country, so if you’re thinking of heading to Acatenango, make sure to also stop by in Antigua and Lake Atitlan!

Taking in the view of the nearby El Fuego volcano at base camp on Acatenango

DIVE ROATAN, HONDURAS

I highly recommend diving in Honduras. If you are looking for a wonderful place to do diving, I can only recommend Roatan. The diving itself is incredibly affordable and the world second largest barrier reef means there is an amazing amount of wildlife to be seen! I actually got PADI certified here and at $275 and up, this is one of the cheapest places in Central America to get your diving certification! Plus if you stay in the West End there are less resorts and families compared to West Bay.

Getting Scuba Certified on Roatan is one of my fondest memories

GET OFF THE GRID IN BOCAS DEL TORO, PANAMA

Another amazing adventure not to miss out on is getting off the grid in Bocas del Toro. One of the most unique experiences was living completely off the grid in Panama. While Bocas del Toro is known as a party and surfing destination, you can also get in touch with nature on Isla Solarte. There is one hostel on the island which is entirely self-sustained with water gathered from rain and electricity produced by solar panels. This obviously means everything is in short supply, but this hostel is a wonderful experience with communal dinners and a beautiful pool deck. Plus you get to brush your teeth with the jungle as your soundtrack.

The sunsets from the patio at Bambuda Lodge were unbeatable

HIKE SANTA ANA VOLCANO, EL SALVADOR

This last one is also a rather adventurous destination and not for those seeking resorts. But despite what you might have heard or believed about El Salvador, this country offers some great hiking and off the beaten path experiences. So hiking the Santa Ana Volcano makes number 5 on my list. While you might have to get used to the sight of armed guards everywhere from the bank to the bakery in the town of Santa Ana, the locals in the smallest country in central America are incredibly friendly and the sight of the blue/green crater lake is simply stunning. The hike itself is fairly low on the challenge scale but the views make it worth it! The whole hike is about 4 hours round trip and in total this adventure will cost you roughly $15.

So there you go, these are my top 5 experiences to have in Central America if you are looking to add some adventure to your life! I hope you’ve enjoyed this list and keep adventuring!