Tag Archives: Central America

Belize Hurricanes
Belize, Caribbean, Central America, Eat, Trip Ideas

Belize Beach Bars: Hurricane’s Ceviche Bar & Grill, San Pedro, Belize

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With the largest reef in the Caribbean literally within sight, it’s not surprising that Hurricane’s Ceviche Bar & Grill serves up a mouth-watering array of fresh seafood. This over-water eatery is located in the town of San Pedro, on Belize’s Ambergris Caye. As the name announces, the signature nosh is ceviche, which is fresh fish and other seafood that is chunked and marinated in lime and lemon juice to “scorch” the flesh a tender white, then combined with fresh vegetables.

With fishermen unloading right at the dock, the kitchen also puts out some memorable seafood entries including baked hogfish, blackened fillets, conch, fish tacos, and lobster. Accessible by boat, and just steps from the airport and Coconut Drive, Hurricane’s is a popular gathering point for locals and visitors alike. Once appetites are sated, many stay for a round or two of the signature rum punch served with a side of afternoon sea breeze.

Belize Snorkeling
Belize, Caribbean, Central America, Play, Trip Ideas

Into The Blue: Best Snorkel Sites in Belize

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Coral reefs make the best snorkel sites, and the small nation of Belize has corals aplenty. Just off the country’s Caribbean coast lies one of the world longest barrier reefs, stretching north to south for more than 190 miles. Scattered along its length are dozens of small, scenic islands known as cayes, which provide ideal starting points for snorkeling excursions, as well as a trio of offshore coral atolls—the only ones in the Caribbean. With the arrival of cruise ships in recent years, it’s possible to enjoy a Belize snorkeling adventure while in port for the day. But many of the best sites are available only to those who stay in country a bit longer, booking into a base camp at one of the beachside resorts or small lodges scattered throughout the cayes. Here are some of our favorite sites to discover the best snorkeling in Belize.

Coral Reef in Belize, best snorkel sites in belize

The reefs of Belize are covered in a mix of hard and soft corals. Shallow reefs offer the most vibrancy, as more sunlight penetrates the water to reveal the true colors of the reef. Photo: iStock

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is home to some of Belize’s most popular snorkeling sites. This largest and most northerly of the cayes is less affected by turbid outflow from mainland rivers, resulting consistently clear waters. In addition, reefs run closer to shore here, allowing for shorter boat rides to prime sites. It’s possible to snorkel right from the beach at select resorts along Ambergris’ eastern shore, but the underwater terrain is often sea grass beds with only the occasional coral head. These nearshore sites can be rewarding for those who enjoy critter spotting among the grass and coral rubble, but the actual reef line typically lies beyond easy swimming distance. The best sites are reached by boat, and are located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Lying some four miles south of the town of San Pedro, this underwater national park teems with fish life, especially at sites such as The Cut, where you are likely to see large grouper, barracuda and schooling jacks. The most famous destination in the park is Shark Ray Alley, which is a shallow, sand bottomed area where nurse sharks and stingrays gather. Neither of these species poses a threat to snorkelers, and most visitors are thrilled to find themselves immersed in a swirling mass of marine life. Other favorite sites near San Pedro include Mexico Rocks, which is a series of shallow patch reefs located north of town, and well-sheltered from ocean swells. Fish watchers will also enjoy Tres Cocos, where impressive stands of elkhorn coral attract a wide range of colorful tropical fish. There are a number of charter boat operators based in San Pedro, and finding a ride to the site of your choice is never a problem. 

Belize Ambergris Caye Sharks

Nurse sharks congregate in the waters of Hol Chan Marine Reserve at a site known as Shark Ray Alley. Here, snorkelers can enter the water safely to interact with the schooling fish. Photo: iStock

 

The Atolls

In addition to an expansive barrier reef, Belize is also home to the only true coral atolls in the Caribbean. Sitting 25 to 50 miles off the mainland, these coral-ringed plateaus offer acres of protected shallow water ideal for snorkelers. Turneffe Atoll lies closest to the coast, and is the easiest to reach by boat from the mainland or the northern cayes. Dotted with hundreds of mangrove islands, Turneffe is best known as a flats fishing mecca, but it is also an excellent snorkeling destination, as there are acres of shallow coral gardens washed by clear oceanic water. Sites can be reached during a day trip from Belize City or San Pedro, and there are also several small lodges tucked among the islets that cater to fishermen, but also welcome scuba divers and snorkelers. Some 20 miles farther to sea is Lighthouse Reef Atoll, home to the famous Blue Hole. Reaching this site will require a long boat ride across open water, which may not be for everyone. Once there, however, you can don mask and snorkel to hover on the precipitous edges of this famous geological formation, which is ringed by shallow coral reefs. Trips to Lighthouse will usually include a second stop at Half Moon Caye, a bird sanctuary which combines a shallow snorkel site with the chance to see rare red-footed boobies and other sea birds. Farther to the south, Glovers Reef Atoll provides an expansive shallow playground for snorkelers, with more than 700 patch reefs lying in shallow water within a protective coral ring. Several small resorts perch on tiny islands within the atoll, and day trips from the coastal town of Dangriga provide access for day trips. 

Blue Hole Belize

The Blue Hole is one of Belize’s best-known landmarks. Essentially a giant underwater sinkhole, it is located within Lighthouse Reef Atoll, which sits 50 miles east of the mainland. Photo: iStock

The Southern Cayes

Belize’s southern cayes are smaller and less settled – some no more than a few acres of sand with a mattering of palms and perhaps a single Robinson Crusoe-style dwelling. The best snorkel sites are located farther from shore, as river water can cloud nearshore sites. For many years, the premier destination in this area has been Rendezvous Caye. Now owned by a cruise line, it is a small spit of sand fitted with the comforts of civilizations such as bath houses and cold drinks—well suited to casual snorkelers seeking a day at the beach, but somewhat less so for those looking for a more solitary in-water experience. To escape the crowds, you can book a small boat tour originating in the coastal towns of Placencia or Dangriga. As an alternative to Rendezvous Caye, guides may drop you at nearby Colson Cay, but the area’s best coral and fish life are found at the Gladden Cays, where extensive arrays of corals and sponges line the shallows inside the reef, and the nearby Gladden Spit creates a gateway for larger fish to move between lagoon and open ocean. This coastline is also home to a number of small resorts and eco lodges, each offering an opportunity to snorkel right from the dock, or to discover surrounding reefs with a short boat ride. Among our favorites are Thatch Caye, Coco Plum and the Fantasy Island Eco Resort.

Belize Caye Marine Reserve Island

Belize’s southern coastline is dotted by hundreds of sandbars and tiny islands known as cayes. This idyllic island lodge lies within the South Water Cay Marine Reserve. Photo: Simon Dannhauer/iStock

COsta Rica, La Fortuna, Zarcero Church Gardens
Central America, Costa Rica, Plan, Trip Ideas

Walk This Way: Zarcero, Costa Rica

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If you are heading north from San Jose or Alajuela to resorts in Costa Rica’s La Fortuna area, make time to stop and stretch your legs at the town of Zarcero. Follow Highway 141 as it wanders through coffee plantations and green hillsides, climbing the slopes of the Cordillera Central in a series of switchbacks to reach an altitude of 5,600 feet. As the roadway enters town, look to your right, where a collection of unique topiary arches are overlooked by the twin-spires of the San Rafael church. This is the Parque Francisco Alvarado, which contains 16 meticulously sculpted shrubberies clipped into resemblances of animals, dancers, aircraft and Christ carrying the cross. Park and spend a few minutes strolling the garden, then enter the church to take in the extensive wall artwork, which includes murals, paintings and elaborate stencil work. If you aren’t ready to climb back in the car just yet, take a stroll through the small downtown, where markets and street vendors offer local cheeses and fresh organic produce from surrounding farms. Most tourists are soon on their way, but if you are intrigued by this picturesque high country oasis, there are several small lodges and cabins in the area, and wooded trails in the nearby Los Ángeles Cloud Forest Reserve to wander.

Costa Rica Punta Uva Tree House
Central America, Costa Rica, Stay, Trip Ideas

Costa Rica’s Favorite Beach and Jungle Lodges

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Costa Rica is the leading destination in the America’s for tropical ecotourism. It’s also home to some world-class beaches, many of which haven’t yet seen a high-rise resort. Instead, you’ll find smaller properties with unique personalities, some truly rustic, others that maintain their off- grid and sustainable principles while also providing a full range of creature comforts. From this list, we’ve selected three truly memorable lodges that combine a beachfront setting with a jungle backdrop to create a thoroughly unforgettable stay.

Tree House Lodge, Punta Uva

When it comes to original and eclectic, this property stands alone. Sitting on 10 wooded acres facing Punta Uva Beach and the Caribbean Sea, the Tree House Lodge has just four self-catering guest cottages. Calling these accommodations mere cottages, however, doesn’t do them justice. There is a Swiss Family Robinson style tree house, set 20 feet off the ground and reached by a wooden suspension bridge. Other aspects of the property are similarly whimsical, with rooms built entirely from fallen trees, kitchen counters emerging from curvilinear adobe walls, and a bathroom set into a Daliesque dome dappled with a multitude of tiny, multi-colored glass windows that create a kaleidoscopic effect in the sunlight. Open air showers and cloistered hot tubs are tucked into hidden alcoves, while sleeping areas are left open to expansive views of forest or ocean (but can be curtained if so desired). The entire compound is built from sustainable materials and fed by solar power, with a portion of guest revenue going to fund a green iguana conservation program. For recreation, there’s snorkeling, surfing, sunning and beach volleyball, kayaking in nearby mangrove lagoons, and the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, which offers a full range of land adventures.

Tree House Lodge Costa Rica, jungle lodges

A wooden suspension bridge provides access to one of the Tree House Lodge’s four self-catering suites. Each offers a strikingly unique design and indoor/outdoor spaces. Photo: Tree House Lodge

Tiskita Jungle Lodge, Playa Pavones

When Costa Rica native Peter Aspinall moved to a remote parcel of land on the Pacific coast, near the country’s southern border, his intention was to create a personal homestead and grow fruit. To accommodate visiting friends and family, a guest cabin was added to the homestead. Fast forward 30 years and that first cabin has grown to nine, with a total of 17 guest rooms, and the Aspinalls now manage a full-fledge eco resort. But the original vision was not lost as the business evolved. Today, Tiskita is not only a lodge, but also a private biological reserve that protects some 800 acres of tropical rainforest, and supports an organic orchard where 125 types of tropical fruit are harvested. Guests can wander wooded trails in a forest that is home to more than 275 species of birds and endangered endemic species such as the Central American squirrel monkey. The property overlooks the Pacific, and is not far from the famous surf break known as Pavones. Guests no longer have to ford jungle streams to reach the property, thanks to improvements in roadway infrastructure, and there’s also a private airstrip nearby that can accommodate charter flights from San Jose. No longer an entirely off-grid outpost, Tiskita now offers a reasonable range of creature comforts, and yes, there’s WiFi for those who can’t unplug.

Tiskita Lodge Pool Costa Rica

Tiskita began as a family orchard with a guesthouse for friends. Over the years, it evolved into a 17-room lodge, but fruit trees are still raised on the property. Photo: Tiskita Jungle Lodge

Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge, Drake Bay

The Osa Peninsula is Costa Rica at its wildest and best. Vast tracts of this jungle wilderness, the largest remaining lowland rainforest in Central America, are under the protection of the Corcovado National Park. Guests at the Casa Corcovado are in a prime position to explore the natural attractions of the park, and are also just steps away from pristine stretch of palm- fringed Pacific beach. Perched on a low hilltop that takes advantage of sea breezes and provides views of both land and sea, the lushly landscaped grounds of the resort incorporate a collection of well-appointed bungalows that can provide privacy for couples or comfortable accommodations for families. Eco-minded guests can take comfort in the fact that this off-grid property engages in a wide range of sustainable practices, while those who also appreciate their comforts will be reassured to know that a combination of solar and hydropower ensures 24-hour electricity to power those little indulgences we all appreciate. With airy beamed ceilings and architectural details hand-crafted by local artisans, rooms have an earthy and spacious feel that blends with the surroundings and frames the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

Casa Corcavado, Costa Rica

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, on the shore of the wild Osa Peninsula, Casa Corcovado is an off-grid property that combines sustainable practices with civilized touches. Photo: Casa Corcovado

 

Panama, Boquete
Central America, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Play, Trip Ideas

Hiking Central America’s Volcanoes

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Central America is a land shaped by subterranean fires and violent eruptions. A geological formation known as the volcanic arc stretches some 900 miles from southern Mexico into Panama, encompassing hundreds of active and dormant volcanoes and lava domes. These peaks dominate the landscape and influence weather patterns. They are also the setting for a new type of adventure travel: volcano hiking. Climbs can range from easy hour-long rambles up lesser peaks to strenuous all-day ascents of summits rising more than two miles in the air. Here is a sampling of what awaits.

Acatenango, Guatemala

Western Guatemala is dominated by towering volcanic peaks, some dormant, some still very active. The tallest ones rise to heights of more than 12,000 feet, providing challenging but manageable climbs for the fit and adventurous. The historic city of Antigua is the starting point for the most popular ascents, including the trek up the country’s third highest peak, Acatenango. It’s possible to tackle the four-hour uphill route to the summit as a day trip, passing from farm land to cloud forest, pine woods and finally open slopes to enjoy 360-degree views that include a bird’s-eye view of the active eruptions of the nearby Fuego volcano. If the long march doesn’t appeal, some outfitters break up the trip with an overnight campout on the upper slopes.

Guatemala Acatenago Fuego Volcano Hiking

The adjacent peaks of Acatenango and Fuego tower over the Guatemalan city of Antigua. The former is a favorite hiking destination, while the latter remains too active for safe access. Photo: iStock

Cerro Negro, Nicaragua

Nicaragua has 20 active and dormant volcanoes, many of which can be hiked or climbed. The most unusual of these is the Cerro Negro, or black hill. This ominous cinder cone, which rises to an elevation of 1,600 feet above the countryside, is actually Central America’s youngest volcano, having first erupted in 1850. It’s been quiet since 1999, giving hikers a chance to make the 45-minute uphill climb on an exposed but manageable slope of ash and rock. After taking in the 360-degree views, the more adventurous can opt to slide back down on a toboggan-like board. Many tour operators end the day with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of nearby Asososca Lake.

Nicaragua Cerro Negro Volcano Hiking

Nicaragua’s Cerro Negro is a young volcano comprised almost entirely of black volcanic ash. After making the climb to the top, some choose to descend on sled-like sand boards. Photo: iStock

El Tigre, Honduras

Honduras is no longer a hotbed of volcanic activity, but the country’s highlands are home to dozens of long-dormant peaks crossed by hundreds of miles of hiking trails. A more unusual hike is Volcán el Tigre, which is a classic cone-shaped volcanic mountain that not only provides a challenging half-day hike, but also makes for an interesting arrival. To reach the base of the slope, you must first take a boat trip across the Gulf of Fonseca to Isla del Tigre. This region of Honduras doesn’t see much tourism activity, so you may have the trail to yourself as you ascend some 2,500 feet for views of the Gulf and the mangrove-covered coastal lowlands that stretch into the distance.

El Tigre Honduras Volcano Hiking, Hiking Central America’s Volcanoes

El Tigre volcano presents a classic conical that dominates the coastal mangrove forests of Honduras’ Gulf of Fonseca. It rises from an island that can be reached by ferry. Photo: iStock

Irazú, Costa Rica

Costa Rica has several active volcanoes. Some such as Arenal can only be viewed safely from a distance, while others offer bubbling crater lakes, geysers and steaming vents, which can be reached by user-friendly trails. One of the most popular of these is Irazú, which, despite being the country’s highest volcanic peak at just over 11,000 feet, is easy to reach, thanks to a paved road that leads right to the summit. From the parking area, trails spread outward to a lunar-like landscape that includes four craters, the largest of which holds an unusual green-water lake. Overlooks around the crater rim take in vistas that can stretch from the Pacific to the Caribbean on a clear day.

Irazu Costa Rica Volcano Hiking

Irazú is Costa Rica’s highest active volcano, and the easiest to reach. Near the summit, the crater lake known as Diego de la Haya is filled with waters tinged green by volcanic activity. Photo: iStock

Volcán Barú, Panama

The ridge of volcanic peaks that stretches through much of Central America tapers as it reaches Panama, but not before the peak known as Volcán Barú rises to a height of two miles. Starting from the highland village of Boquete takes care of the first mile, but there’s still nearly 6,000 feet of climbing needed to reach the top. A nine-mile trail rambles through grasslands and wooded slopes before emerging onto a rock-covered upper slope. Along the way, there are stops to view historic craters and the lands below. Rather than attempt to make the summit and return the same day, most tour companies set up camp about a half mile below the top, giving trekkers a chance to sleep under the stars and make the short climb to the peak the following morning to view the sunrise.

Panama Baru Volcano Hiking

Volcán Barú rises above its namesake national park. A hike to the top takes one from farmlands into highland forests and on to an open peak with panoramic views. Photo: Alfredo Maiquez/iStock

 

Belize, Lamanai
Belize, Central America, Plan, Trip Ideas

Belize’s Best Mayan Ruins

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The country of Belize was once part of the great Mayan homeland. Green jungles hide stonework and relics of once grand cities. More than 100 known Mayan sites are scattered from coastal lowlands to highland plateaus, but fewer than a dozen are easily accessible, and have been sufficiently reclaimed from enveloping undergrowth and debris to provide a semblance of their former selves. No trip to Belize would be complete without a visit to at least one of these sites, either with an organized tour or by rental car. Here are six of the country’s best.

Coastal Day Trips

If you are staying out on the cays or taking shore leave in Belize City, several of the country’s most popular Mayan sites are within day-trip range. The easiest to reach, and therefore most popular, is Altun Ha. The excavated portions of this site are relatively modest in scope, but contain all the requisite elements: temples, tombs, carvings and pyramids that can be climbed. Several tour companies serve the site, and it’s an easy 45-minute drive by rental car. For a unique setting and fewer tour groups, you can opt for the city of Lamanai, which overlooks the New River Lagoon, and is surrounded by a lush rainforest. Highlights include a ball court and the second largest pre-classic Mayan structure in Central America. And then there’s the arrival. To save a circuitous road trip, a number of tour operators deliver visitors by boat, adding a river cruise to the day’s adventure, with the chance of sighting crocodiles along the way.

Belize, Xunantunich, Belize’s Best Mayan Ruins

Just a few miles from the town of San Ignacio, the 120-foot high El Castillo pyramid at Xunantunich rises from the jungle. The site can be reached by car, and the views justify the climb to the top. Photo: iStock

A third option for coastal-based travelers with a full day to devote to visiting ruins is a drive on the Western Highway to the town of San Ignacio. Here, the remains of one of the oldest-known Maya cities in the country overlooks the Macal River Valley. The site, known as Cahal Pech, is a collection of some 30 stone structures rising to heights of 75 feet, along with a small museum displaying some of the artifacts unearthed by archeologists. A seven-mile drive west of San Ignacio brings you to the district’s other easily accessed site: Xunantunich. The adventure begins with a trip across the Mopan River on a small, hand-operated ferry boat, after which you can walk among carved stella and climb the 120-foot-tall El Castillo pyramid for panoramic views that extend to the Guatemalan border.

Inland Expeditions

Some of Belize’s most significant Mayan cities are located in the western highlands in areas that are a bit too remote for a comfortable one-day excursion from the coast. The best way to visit these sites is by basing at a hotel or jungle lodge near the town of San Ignacio. From here, a favorite adventure is an all-day outing to the sprawling city of Caracol, which is located in the heart of the Mayan Mountains. The trip begins with a 2?- hour drive on rough backroads through the Mountain Pine Forest Reserve and the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, with ample opportunities to spot wildlife. The city itself is massive, and only a fraction of it has yet been reclaimed from the jungle; archeological work is ongoing. Among the most noteworthy structures unearthed so far are the Canna Sky Palace pyramid, which at 136 feet is the tallest Mayan building in Belize.

Belize, Caracol

The view from atop Caracol’s main pyramid. Excavation at the site is ongoing, and only a small portion of the city has been reclaimed from the surrounding jungle. Photo: Alan Tobey/iStock

The other must-do excursion from San Ignacio takes you across the Guatemalan border to one of the most important cities of the Mayan Empire. The ancient city of Tikal covers more than 6 square miles, and includes some of the most dramatic pyramids and best-restored structures in Central America. Organized tours from San Ignacio are the best option, as most rental car contracts exclude travel into Guatemala. If you have an extra half day to spare, and want a slightly wilder take on ruins tours, a 12-mile drive to the north brings you to El Pilar, a large but only partially excavated city that could serve as a set for an Indiana Jones movie. Here, visitors walk shaded trails to discover 4,000-year-old stonework emerging from the surrounding greenery.

Nicaragua Catedral De Granada
Central America, Nicaragua, Plan, Trip Ideas

Nicaragua: 10 Reasons to Go

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Central America’s largest country offers a different brand of vacation experience. It is a land where nature trumps high rises and traditions have not been eroded by pop culture. Here you will find a people who look towards a brighter tomorrow as the country’s economy continues to gain momentum, but also remain firmly rooted in the ways of their forefathers, and tolerant of the varied cultural roots that blend and complement the national identity.

1  Land of Poets

Poetry is a national passion. It is a tradition that dates back to Nobel Prize-nominated laureate Rubén Darío, who’s most famous work, Margarita Debayle, can be quoted verbatim by many Nicaraguans. The nation’s love of verse begins in elementary school, and people of all classes from farmers to politicians not only read and appreciate the art form, but also test their own writing talents and greet each other with cries of “poet” in the same way surfers use “dude.” Each year, the city of Granada hosts an international festival that draws top poets from around the world to share and celebrate their works.

2  Volcanic Vibes

The landscape of western Nicaragua is dominated by a line of more than 50 active and dormant volcanoes that stretch some 200 miles north to south and rise to heights of more than a mile. Past activity has created rich soils where crops such as coffee thrive, and verdant cloud forests grow on elevated slopes. Still-active volcanoes send up smoke signals and create bubbling, sulfurous hot springs. Some rise in symmetrical cinder cones, while others are the jagged remains of mountains that blew their tops thousands of years ago, and now form expansive craters where one can hike down to ground zero of historic eruptions.

3  Water Wonders

Geological forces have graced Nicaragua with an abundance of lakes. In all, these bodies of fresh water make up a tenth of the country’s total area. Some are mere slivers of blue tucked within mountain craters, and others are small lagoons hidden deep in the jungle. But also on the roster are the two largest lakes in Central America: Lake Managua and massive Lake Nicaragua, which stretches 100 miles in length and measures as much as 45 miles across. These waters are home to 45 species of fish, including sporting favorites such as guapote and peacock bass, as well as some creatures usually found only in saltwater, including snook, tarpon and the lake’s infamous through rarely sighted freshwater bull sharks.

4  Welcome to the Jungle

The eastern and northern portions of Nicaragua encompass the largest area of lowland jungle in Central America, including the largest stretch of rainforest north of the Amazon. The land, known as the Indio- Maíz reserve, contains a greater variety of trees, birds and insects than the entire continent of Europe. In all, there are more than 75 protected areas within the country, providing habitat for more than 575 species of birds and 250 varieties of mammals. Jaguars and crocodiles thrive, and numerous species of monkeys that are threatened elsewhere call the treetops home. The region’s tremendous potential for eco-tourism is just being discovered and developed.

5  Colonial Charms

While British occupation left its cultural mark along the Caribbean coast, the European power that had the greatest impact on Nicaragua was the Spanish. Evidence of the classic colonial period remains in historic cities such as Granada, which dates back nearly 500 years, and Leon, which is now the nation’s center of learning and culture, and home to the largest cathedral in Central America, the Basilica Catedral de la Asunción. Equally worthy of a visit is the city of Masaya, which has been called the Cradle of Nicaraguan Folklore. Here, a thriving local market scene offers a wealth of local crafts such as embroidery, hemp baskets, hand-woven hammocks and intricate woodcarvings.

6  Ocean Action

Though the country has nearly 200 miles of coastline fronting the Pacific Ocean, there are relatively few oceanfront resorts, and many beaches remain wild or require some effort to reach. A few areas such as San Juan Del Sur offer small to mid-size hotels that include the pools, cabanas and sundecks that mainstream vacationers require. To the north, many beaches hold only cottages or lodges that cater to the surf, yoga and eco-tourism crowds. Consistent year-round surf is a major draw, but waves aren’t just for the experts, as many breaks are novice-friendly.

7  Dance Fever

This is a country that loves music and dance, and one where cultural heritages are expressed in a multiplicity of styles. In a celebration of their pre-Columbian roots, dancers perform the palo volador, in which they twirl in a downward spiral from a tall central spire to the accompaniment of flute and drums. Masked pageantry such as the toro huaco is part dance, part storytelling, while the flowing las inditas and mestizaje styles celebrate the country’s blended aboriginal and Spanish cultures to the accompaniment of guitar and marimba. To the north, German influences can be seen in the performance of polcas and mazurcas, while along the Caribbean coast African rhythms energize the sensual movements of the palo de mayo.

8  Island Escapes

The country’s Caribbean coast remains wild, with only a handful of outposts or small towns such as Bluefields, where one can truly drop off the grid. From there, you can take a long boat ride or a short flight to Big Corn Island to discover the Caribbean the way it used to be. Brightly-painted beach shanties cook up fish landed just hours before; the native panga skiffs used by local fishermen sit beached under palm trees. Big Corn has electricity and a cobblestone road populated mostly by carts and scooters, Little Corn has a walking path and a half-dozen off-grid lodges. The nearby Pearl Keys are wild spits of palm-covered sand that resemble the iconic desert islands of cartoons.

9  The Best Vices

Coffee has long been one of Nicaragua’s prime agricultural products, but only recently have government regulations allowed estates to export individually rather than as a collective. This has given rise to a new wave of savory artisanal blends. Cigar aficionados prize Nicaraguan brands, which can be enjoyed along with the decanter of the country’s prized Flor de Caña rum. The same rich volcanic soils that nourish coffee crops are equally kind to the cacao bean, and the country has recently become the largest exporter of cocoa in Central America. To taste the sweet rewards in a final form, look for small-batch producers such as El Castillo del Cacao or Momotombo.

10  River Run

Flowing from Lake Nicaragua to the Caribbean, the San Juan River is the longest waterway in Central America at 120 miles. Long before the Panama Canal, it was used to shorten overland travel between Caribbean and Pacific, as sailing ships and later steamboats traveled upriver and across the big lake to arrive within 10 miles of the west coast. Today, a half-day cruise down river takes one to the village of El Castillo, which is a voyage back in time to a 15th century fort where the cannons once thundered. Continuing downriver puts passengers in the heart of the coastal jungle.

Costa Rica Whitewater Rafting
Central America, Costa Rica, Play, Trip Ideas

Costa Rica’s Best Whitewater Rafting Adventures

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There’s a reason why much of Costa Rica is covered in lush greenery. The towering peaks along the country’s central spine harvest rain, and lots of it. Portions of the highlands receive as much as 200 inches of rainfall each year, and all this water flows precipitously downhill to the sea. More than three quarters of the country’s electrical energy needs are met by harvesting this flow, but many rivers also run free, providing hundreds of miles of whitewater rapids that have become a major tourism draw. Choosing a river rafting adventure can be a matter of geography, as routes traverse all areas of the country. But the decisions should also be made based on physical abilities, personal experience and comfort level. There are trips suitable for young and old, timid and bold. Some are best planned during the rainy season (May to November), while others can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to timed water releases from the same reservoirs that provide hydroelectric power. To get you started on the right river trip, here’s an overview of what you can expect on some of Costa Rica’s best whitewater adventures.

Costa Rica Rafting

As rivers near the end of their downhill plunge from the mountains, many mellow out to provide rafters with calm drifts through scenic jungles. Photo: Roberto A. Sanchez/iStock

Fun Floats

As cascading mountain streams transition into lowland rivers, they mellow, and raucous whitewater turns to ripples and small standing waves that can be glided over with ease. Rafters call these class I and class II rapids, and they are appropriate for passengers of all ages and physical abilities. One of Costa Rica’s most popular excursions of this type is a float along the Corobicí River, in the country’s northwestern province of Guanacaste. The highlight of this trip isn’t big water, but wildlife, as the river flows through a rainforest where monkeys swing in the treetops and iguanas sun on the riverbanks. The Corobicí is just one of several relaxing and novice-friendly rafting trips on the roster. The nearby Tempisque River offers an even more sedate drift through lowland jungles, while the Peñas Blancas River gives access to hot springs and waterfalls, with some sections of calm, clear water and others that ratchet the action up a bit with exposed rocks and hints of white water. Closer to San Jose, a good option for an easy rafting trip is the Pejibaye River, which flows through the lush Turrialba Valley. Float tours here often include a picnic lunch along the riverbank, with time for swimming and playing among the small rapids in inner tubes.

Costa Rica Rafting

Costa Rica’s whitewater rafting doesn’t have to be dangerous to be exciting. Smaller rapids provide forgiving obstacles mixed in with enough splashes to keep things exciting. Photo: Roberto A. Sanchez/iStock

Thrill Rides

It’s possible to enjoy an exhilarating whitewater ride without being in any real danger. These adventures can include roller-coastering through standing waves, bumping off foam-drenched rocks and shooting through flumes that drop into swirling eddies. The guidebooks call it class III river running, and Coast Rica has a number of streams that deliver this level of aquatic thrill. One of the most popular is the Reventazón. This river spills from the heights of the Cordillera de Talamanca Mountains in southeastern Costa Rica, which are home to some of the wettest areas in Central America. From elevations of almost a mile, the river plunges towards the Caribbean, offering up nearly 60 miles of rapids that range from beginner-friendly to expert-only. The 10-mile stretch known as the Florida section provides consistent class III rapids that come in quick succession, creating an energy- packed thrill ride that is safe for adventurous first-timers, but will also hold the attention of rafting veterans. Also delivering plenty of splashes and plunges are the Sarapiquí River, some 30 miles northeast of San Jose, the Savegre, which flows to the Pacific just south of Quepos, and the middle section of the Balsa River, where cool waters released from a reservoir in the Arenal volcanic highlands provide consistent flows that sweep rafters though forests of orange-flowering poro trees.

Rafting in Costa Rica

Avid whitewater fans looking for a serious challenge can find it on a number of Costa Rica’s high-energy whitewater rivers. The most extreme are suitable for experts only. Photo: iStock

Adrenaline Trips

Plunging over head-high waterfalls, bursting through tall standing waves with curling crests, and executing precise paddling maneuvers through boulder mazes that are unforgiving of mistakes are what make class IV whitewater rafting so daring. It’s not for the timid. Costa Rica has more than a half dozen rivers that deliver this level of adrenaline-filled action. One can get a taste of bigger water, along with a heady dose of scenery, on the country’s most popular and widely-celebrated river, the Pacuare. Though some lower sections of this 60-mile waterway are suitable for novices, the route through the Huacas River Gorge delivers pulse-quickening class IV rapids, and the upper river edges into expert-only territory. Whether mild or wild, the Pacuare is also noted for its scenic beauty, which includes towering canyon walls and the lush shoreside groves of a forest reserve. Those wanting to take in a larger section of the river can opt for two-day trips with overnight stays in a jungle lodge. The Pacuare is far from the only river in Costa Rica that delivers big-water thrills. Near Quepos, the powerful Naranjo sweeps through tight canyons as it tumbles to the sea. The hard-charging El Rio Toro lives up to its name (The Bull) with big waves and non-stop whitewater action, and the upper sections of the Tenorio River provide advanced-level challenges that are fast and powerful. Those with three days to spare and the willingness to camp out can tackle El General, a wild river that runs through some of the country’s most remote terrain.

 

Honduras Scuba
Central America, Honduras, Plan, Trip Ideas

Honduras: 10 Reasons to Go

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A longtime favorite with scuba divers and beach-combing backpackers, Honduras is just beginning to hit the mainstream tourism radar. With hundreds of miles of undeveloped beaches, rich tropical forest preserves, wild rivers and verdant mountain slopes, the country is increasingly gaining the attention of the eco-travel crowd. In addition, a number of resort projects are underway along the coasts that promise to lure sunseekers to some of the Caribbean’s most pristine beaches. For these reasons and more, Honduras deserves a space in the vacation planner.

1  Island Styles

The Bay Islands—Roatán, Utila and Guanaja—lie some 20 miles off the Honduran mainland, and near the edge of the vast Mesoamerican Reef. They are the number one tourism destination in Honduras. Divers from around the world come for clear waters and pristine coral, but one doesn’t have to submerge to appreciate the area’s aquatic charms and beach culture vibe.

2  Stone Works

The remains of the historic Mayan city of Copan contains the finest and most complete collection of pre-Columbian sculptures, friezes and hieroglyphics ever discovered. Occupied for more than 2,000 years, this site is the most studied Mayan city in the world, and the leading tourism draw on the Honduran mainland. The nearby modern village of the same name offers lodging and numerous restaurants, and the area is well served by bus and taxi.

3  Green Spaces

Honduras is becoming Central America’s newest eco-tourism destination—and with good reason. Nearly one third of the country is encompassed in national parks, wildlife reserves or under some other form of protection. Together, these 91 protected areas are three-fourths the size of the entire country of Costa Rica, and include eight distinct biospheres ranging from coral reefs and coastal swamps to rainforests and mountain woodlands.

4  Coastal Charms

Tela Bay and its namesake coastal village have evolved from a historic port and railhead into the mainland’s leading beach destination. A five- mile crescent of sand accommodates a collection of waterfront resorts. Just to the west are the coves and lagoons of Punta Sal National Park, once the haunt of pirates, and now a haven for more than 350 species of birds. Also in the area, you’ll find the village of Miami, which is a center point of traditional Garifuna culture, and Lancetilla Botanical Garden, which is the second largest tropical botanical garden in the world.

5  Growing Concerns

Crops thrive in Honduras soil. Bananas, once the single largest factor in the country’s economy, are still an important export, but farmers have diversified. Rich varieties of coffee grow in the Comayagua Mountains, while pineapples, melons and a cornucopia of tropical fruits can be picked fresh from fields and groves. Restaurants through the country incorporate local ingredients into both traditional and international menus, while some of the freshest tastes come right from village markets and farms across the land.

6  The Next Place

Once the nation’s capital during Spanish Colonial times, the sleepy coastal town of Trujillo overlooks one of the country’s best beaches. The completion of a new pier and the arrival of the first small cruise ship in the spring of 2014 have the town poised for a new era of resort development. Currently these plans are sufficiently modest to ensure the destination retains its small-town appeal while providing better lodging and dining options.

7  Coffee Klatch

Volcanic soils and cool highlands provide ideal conditions for growing fine coffee, and Honduras is the America’s second largest producer of the bean. Coffee lovers can savor local artisanal blends or fully immerse themselves in the culture by visiting one of several farms that offer tastings, facility tours and hiking or horseback expeditions through the plantations and surrounding slopes.

8  Game Faces

Soccer is not just the primary sport of Honduras; it is a passion that permeates the culture, from the impromptu games played at village squares across the country to non-stop sports talk at local cafes and the international competitions staged at the Estadio Olimpico in San Pedro Sula. When the national team is playing, it is not uncommon for business to close early and workers to take the day off.

9  High Water

Ten-mile-long Lake Yojoa is a cool freshwater oasis sitting at an elevation of 2,000 feet in the country’s central highlands. Surrounded by the wooded slopes of volcanic peaks, it’s a haven for bird life and a favorite with fishermen. A signature dish at many of the small shoreside restaurants is fried bass pulled fresh from the lake.

10  The Other Side

Honduras meets two oceans, but only a small fraction of its 560 miles of coastline lie on the Pacific side. Mangrove lowlands dominate much of this region, with a 20-mile canal cut through the greenery to connect the port city of San Lorenzo to the Gulf of Fonseca. This small city, dating back to the 16th century, serves as a staging point for tours into the wetlands and excursions to volcanic Amapala Island, which rises more than 2,500 feet from the surrounding waters and is ringed by black sand beaches.

Belize Black Rock Lodge
Belize, Central America, Stay, Trip Ideas

Top 4 Jungle Lodges In Belize

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Sun and sand draw vacationers to the shores of Belize, but an ever-growing number of travelers are also looking inland. Here, verdant rainforests are cut by jungle streams, and mountain ranges are perforated by caves and underground rivers. The lost cities of the once-mighty Mayan empire lie waiting to be discovered, and the forests are alive with exotic animals such as peccaries, jaguars and monkeys, along with more than 300 species of birds.

Scattered through this lush landscape is a collection of small resorts. Unlike the glass-and-concrete monoliths of urban and beachfront settings, these are simpler abodes fabricated from native materials and constructed in traditional styles of the region. They are Belize’s jungle lodges, places where one can wake to bird calls, dine on locally grown foods under a thatched palapa, and discover medicinal plants, birds and butterflies along wooded paths. Many of these same lodges also offer a reasonable dose of civilization, with on-site spas, eco-friendly swimming pools and—for those who just have to stay connected—WiFi service. Destinations in their own right, they also serve as base camps for a wide range of jungle adventures, everything from horseback rides and tours of archeological sites to zip-line flights and inner tube floats through river caves. Much of this activity centers around the Cayo district and the town of San Ignacio. Several first-class jungle lodges are located within this region. Here are four of our favorites.

Belize Chaa Creek swimming pool

The Lodge at Chaa Creek blends select luxuries such as a freshwater pool and available WiFi with opportunities for off-grid stays at a more secluded jungle camp. Photo: Chaa Creek Lodge

The Lodge at Chaa Creek

Belize’s original jungle lodge has evolved from a pair of cottages accessible only by river into one of the world’s best known and most highly awarded eco resorts. Today, a collection of 23 bungalows combine the rustic thatched-roof appeal that started it all with creature comforts that range from charmingly basic to downright decadent. At Chaa Creek, guests can bunk down in the rustic comfort of the Macal River Camp, which is unplugged, but far from uncivilized; those who want WiFi coverage along with their time in nature can stay closer to the central compound at one of several electrified suites, complete with a private Jacuzzi tub. All guests can dine on locally sourced meals at the resort’s highly acclaimed dining room, lounge by the eco-friendly pool or book a treatment at the on-site spa.

The owners, Mick and Lucy Fleming, have expanded their original farm plot into a 365-acre rainforest reserve that includes organic gardens, a natural history center, a butterfly farm and a trail system that gives access to Mayan cultural sites and a medicinal plant repository. On-property activities include canoeing on the Macal River, morning bird-watching sessions with a staff naturalist, visits to Mayan farms, and horseback and mountain bike rides. The lodge can also bundle a wide range of off-property adventures into a stay, and 10 percent of all accommodation revenue is set aside for environmental education and community-enhancement projects. 

Belize Black Rock Lodge Dining Area

The communal dining area at Black Rock Lodge sits on the edge of a high bluff overlooking its namesake canyon, with the Macal River flowing hundreds of feet below. Photo: Black Rock Lodge

Black Rock Lodge

The most remote of the San Ignacio area jungle resorts, the Black Rock Lodge is a 45-minute drive from town, with the final six miles along an unpaved track. The rewards for this isolation are a commanding view of the Macal River, snaking its way through the Black Rock Canyon below, and proximity to Elijio Panti National Park. The lodge’s 14 hillside cabins are constructed of native wood and slate rock, with vaulted roofs and large screened windows to take advantage of the mountain breezes. Interiors are simply but tastefully furnished and decorated with the work of local artists and craftsmen. Front porch hammocks are a favorite place to take in river views and rest after a day’s adventure.

The most stunning vistas on the property are from the high-roofed dining palapa, which sits on the edge of a slope, above the river. The lodge is energy independent, generating all power from solar and hydroelectric sources, and most of the organic fruits and vegetables served in the restaurant are grown here. From the resort, hiking trails lead to the river and the national park’s adjacent 13,000 acres. By foot, mountain bike or horseback, guests can visit sites such as Vaca Falls or Flour Camp Cave, which is filled with ancient Maya pottery. A second community palapa, half way to the river, is ideal for birding and serves as the site of daily yoga classes. A culmination highlight of each day is the four-course dinner served family style against the waning evening light in the gorge. 

Belize Jungle Lodge, black rock lodge

The Macal River begins in Belize’s mountainous interior and flows through Black Rock Canyon before emerging into the lowlands. Several jungles lodges line its banks. Photo: Black Rock Lodge

Mystic River Resort

One of Belize’s newest jungle lodges has already earned accolades for guest service, including the Belize Hotel Association’s award for Hotelier of the Year. Located seven miles upstream of San Ignacio on the Macal River, the Mystic River Resort is the dream of Canadian expats Tom and Nadege Thomas, who welcomed their first guests in early 2009. Like other eco- themed lodges along this stretch of the river, this property is committed to sustainable tourism. There is an ongoing program to replant indigenous hardwoods, and the resort generates its own electricity, maintains an organic garden to supply the kitchen and purifies its own water.

Accommodations currently include five studio suites and three single- bedroom bungalows, with two additional suites to be completed by late 2014. Another recent expansion was the opening of the on-site Jasmine Spa in the fall of 2013. This facility is surrounded by lush jungle foliage and water features that add a natural ambience to the spa experience. The resort has a pool, but guests can also enjoy a dip in the cool river waters. Other highlights of a stay include sampling Nadege’s freshly made goat cheese, exploring the foothills of the Maya Mountains by horseback, or sharing libations and conversation at the Palapa Bar. The staff can also coordinate a full range of day trips and tours or suggest self-guided activities, such as a hike to a nearby waterfall. 

Crystal Paradise Resort

The Tut family’s Crystal Farm was named for the clear waters that welled up when they first dug an irrigation pond for their crops. In the late 1980s, they began supplementing farm income with on-site lodging. From simple beginnings, this expanded into a full-fledge resort offering a collection of 18 attractive Belizean-style cottages and thatched-roof cabanas. The closest jungle lodge to the town of San Ignacio, Crystal Paradise Resort provides an ideal combination of access, amenities and natural attractions. Reliable on- grid electricity, telephone and WiFi service, hot water and available air conditioning are provided for those not quite ready to go native. But aside from these creature comforts, the overall vibe is pure jungle, with open-air dining under an expansive palapa, and more than 150 species of plants and trees growing on the lushly landscaped property. The 21-acre resort is crisscrossed with walking trails and home to more than 250 species of birds. An above-canopy observation platform stands ready for would-be ornithologists, and three resident naturalists are available to help with identification. In addition to hospitality, the Tut family delivers adventures, as they also own and operate Paradise Expeditions. This full-service tour company can arrange everything from airport transfers to visits to Mayan ruins, caving expeditions and river trips.