Lonely Planet Best of Central America

With cerulean seas and verdant forests, magnificent Maya ruins and smoking volcanoes, Central America is like a tropical fairy tale except all of it is real.

Central Americas seven countries plus Mexicos Yucatn and Chiapas states equal 300-plus volcanoes, two expansive tropical coasts and one giant adventure playground. And while the region may take up less space than Texas, its rich mix of people and cultures has created a diverse and dynamic society.

Maya civilizations once sprawled from Mexico to Honduras, leaving behind ruins in five present-day countries where visitors can still step back and connect with an ancient and mysterious past. The Spanish left their mark throughout with colonial plazas, fervent beauty contests and silent hours of siesta. African culture permeates the Caribbean coast, from the Congo rebel traditions to lip-smacking rondn seafood gumbo.

Whats more, Central Americas natural environs are simply awe-inspiring, and your adventures here will be limited only by your will. Zip through rain forest canopies, swim alongside sea turtles or trek to sublime cloud-forest vistas. Scuba dive with whale sharks, snorkel the worlds second-largest coral reef or set sail among virgin isles. And whether you prefer the chilled-out vibes on the Caribbean coast or the monster swells over on the Pacific shores, Central America offers just about any sun-soaked experience that your inner beach bum desires. Hello, paradise.

Lago de Atitln, Guatemala

Central Americas most picturesque crater lake

Possibly the single most beautiful destination in Guatemala, elicits poetic outbursts from even the most seasoned traveler. The lake is ringed by volcanoes and villages such as Santiago Atitln, with its thriving indigenous culture, and San Marcos La Laguna, humming with cosmic energy. Kayaking and hiking make a longer stay worthwhile.

Lago de Atitln and | CULTURA RM EXCLUSIVE/BEN PIPE PHOTOGRAPHY/GETTY IMAGES

Tzutujil woman wearing traditional hat | meunierd/shutterstock

CENTRAL AMERICAS TOP 18 PLAN YOUR TRIP

Belizes ultimate tropical-island getaways

Take a plunge into warm waters, discover kitesurfing or explore Belizes barrier reef in the . Relaxed Caye Caulker seduces everyone from backpackers to families with its laid-back atmosphere, refreshing lack of cars and heaping plates of grilled lobster. Ambergris Caye is for days of snorkeling the reef, kayaking the lagoon and dining and happening nightlife.