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Guatemala City, Guatemala
Use Guatemala City mainly as a gateway — grab a quick meal at the Mercado Central and head onward. The historic centro has some colonial architecture worth a brief wander if you have time to spare.
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Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in the Americas, with cobblestone streets, colourful facades and the iconic Arco de Santa Catalina. Hike Volcán Acatenango for a sunrise view over active Volcán de Fuego — one of the most memorable experiences in Central America. Don't miss trying pepián stew and fresh coffee from the highlands.
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Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Lake Atitlán is a stunning volcanic crater lake surrounded by indigenous Maya villages — base yourself in San Marcos or San Pedro for a relaxed vibe. Explore the villages by lancha (water taxi) and enjoy the incredible mountain scenery. The market in Chichicastenango is nearby and a riot of colour and craft.
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San Salvador, El Salvador
San Salvador is a convenient transit hub with a surprisingly vibrant food and nightlife scene in the Zona Rosa district. Stop by the Mercado Ex-Cuartel for local crafts before moving on. El Salvador's pupusas are a must — grab them fresh from street vendors.
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El Tunco, El Salvador
El Tunco is a laid-back surf village on El Salvador's Pacific coast with black volcanic sand beaches and consistent waves. December–January is dry season, making it perfect for beach days and surfing. The small strip of bars and restaurants comes alive at night with a fun backpacker crowd.
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Granada, Nicaragua
Granada is Nicaragua's oldest colonial city, sitting on the edge of massive Lake Nicaragua with striking yellow and ochre architecture. Take a boat tour through the volcanic Isletas and look out for howler monkeys. The Calle La Calzada is the place to eat and drink, lined with restaurants serving vigorón and fresh fruit drinks.
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San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
San Juan del Sur is a charming Pacific beach town famous for its horseshoe bay, surf beaches and New Year's Eve celebrations — one of the biggest parties in Central America. Nearby Playa Maderas and Playa Hermosa are great for surfing and escaping the crowds. Fresh seafood on the waterfront is excellent and very affordable.
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Liberia, Costa Rica
Liberia serves as the gateway to Guanacaste's beaches and Rincón de la Vieja National Park. It's worth a quick stop to explore the white colonial town centre known as the 'White City.' Use it as a base for a day trip to spot wildlife and volcanic hot springs at Rincón de la Vieja.
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Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is Costa Rica's most popular Pacific surf town, with beautiful beaches, consistent waves and a lively expat dining scene. December–January is peak dry season in Guanacaste — expect sunshine, warm water and spectacular sunsets. Day trips to leatherback turtle nesting sites at Playa Grande are available just across the estuary.
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Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most biodiverse and beautiful parks in Costa Rica, where rainforest meets white-sand beach. Spot sloths, capuchin monkeys, scarlet macaws and marine iguanas all in one hike. The nearby town has excellent restaurants and the park gets busy, so arrive at opening time.