9 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Central America

First-time travelers to Central America find Costa Rica and Panama ideal starting points due to their strong tourism infrastructure and U.S. dollar use in Panama. Experts highlight must-see spots like Costa Rica's national parks for rainforests and wildlife, Guatemala's Tikal Mayan ruins, and historic towns such as Antigua and Casco Viejo. Backpackers recommend a 4-week itinerary from Guatemala's Flores and Tikal through Nicaragua's surf beaches like Playa Popoyo to Costa Rica's adventures.