A Backpacker's Guide To Central America

Central America, a region rich in diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and historical significance, has become a hotspot for backpackers seeking adventure off the beaten path. From the lush jungles of Costa Rica to the ancient ruins of Guatemala, Central America offers a plethora of experiences for budget-conscious travelers. In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about backpacking in Central America, including transportation options, local customs, and budget-friendly accommodation.

Pick your countries wisely:

1. Costs May Vary: You might think that all of the countries in Central America are going to offer budget backpacking but that isn't the case. Costa Rica, Panama, and Belize are considerably more costly than Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador so if you're on a tight budget that might be something to consider.
2. Visas: For most countries in Central America you're granted a 90 day tourist visa (so no need to apply online beforehand, but do always check the FCDO for the most up-to-date entry requirements). If you're crossing borders then prepare for potentially long waits, and some headache-inducing logistics, but you can research border crossings before you go to know what to expect.
3. Be realistic: You're not going to be able to see the entirety of Central America in three months so don't even try as all that will happen is you'll spend more time in-transit than in-country. We suggest 3/4 weeks per country in order to really see it all and not feel rushed. So if you've got three months to play with then pick three countries and do them well. We have an example three month itinerary that you can check out here.

Transportation:

1. Chicken Buses: One of the most iconic and budget-friendly modes of transportation in Central America is the infamous "chicken bus." These brightly painted, recycled American school buses serve as the primary means of travel between cities and towns. While they may not be the most luxurious option (prepare for crowded seating, blasting music, and a propensity for breaking down), they offer a unique and authentic experience and will leave you with lots of funny stories to tell.
2. Shuttle Services: For those seeking more comfort and convenience, shuttle services are available for popular tourist routes. These shared vans or minibusses offer a faster and more direct journey between destinations, making them a popular choice for travelers with limited time. Be aware though
3. Boats and Ferries: With its extensive coastlines and numerous islands, Central America provides opportunities for boat travel. Whether crossing the Gulf of Honduras or exploring the islands of Bocas del Toro in Panama, backpackers can enjoy scenic journeys by boat, adding a touch of adventure to their itinerary.
4. Flights: It's more expensive than other modes of transport, but can save time that you'd otherwise spend travelling long distances. Most inter-country flights are relatively inexpensive, especially if booked in advance.

Food and Drink:

1. Tours: If you can then take the opportunity to tour some of the local food and drink producers. From coffee in Guatemala to chocolate in Costa Rica, many farms and producers will give tours of their farms and plantations, often with tastings thrown in.
2. Prepare For Corn, Rice, and Beans: Much of Central American cuisine revolves around these three ingredients, but you can also expect some delicious variations on that, especially if you visit Mexico, which has some of the best food in the world. If you're on a backpacker budget though expect to live on a more simple diet of those three staples.
3. Water: Assume that you can't drink the tap water, but if you want to save on your plastic use then consider one of those water bottles with a built-in filter. However bottled water is easily accessible, just make sure they seal hasn't been broken before you buy it.

Local Customs and Culture:

1. Language: Spanish is the predominant language in Central America, and while many locals in tourist areas may speak some English, learning a few basic phrases in Spanish can greatly enhance your travel experience. Locals appreciate the effort, and it fosters a more meaningful cultural exchange.
2. Currency and Bargaining: The local currencies vary across Central American countries, including the Costa Rican colón, the Guatemalan quetzal, and the Panamanian balboa. Bargaining is a common practice in local markets, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices, keeping in mind cultural norms and politeness. Also you'll quickly realise the importance of keeping hold of small change, as you might find that if you pay with a larger bill you might have to wait for the seller to go around nearby stalls and houses to ask their friends if they have any change. Taking a prepaid debit card like a Monzo or Revolut will cut down on transaction fees overseas, and has the added bonus that if your card was stolen then the thieves would only be able to empty the account of what was in there, which you can keep at a couple of hundred dollars and easily top up from the app on your phone.
3. Respecting Indigenous Cultures: Central America is home to various indigenous communities, each with its unique customs and traditions. When visiting indigenous areas or participating in cultural activities, it's crucial to respect local customs, seek permission before taking photographs, and engage with the community respectfully.
4. Slow Your Pace: You'll quickly learn that there's an easy, laid-back vibe in Central America that means you might have to learn to go with the flow, especially on travel days. Give yourself a full day to get where you're going, and just sit back and don't get frustrated by the slower pace.

Accommodation:

1. Hostels: You'll find an abundance of hostels throughout Central America, providing affordable accommodation and a social atmosphere. Hostels often offer dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces, making them ideal for meeting fellow travelers. Read the reviews to get an idea of the vibe of the place, if you're looking for some peace and quiet then don't book a party hostel for example! Hostels are also a great place to get information about local tours, as well as finding people to do them with. You can read our guide to navigating hostel life here.
2. Guesthouses: In addition to hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels are prevalent in popular tourist destinations. These accommodations provide a balance between affordability and comfort, offering private rooms at reasonable prices.
3. Homestays: For a more immersive cultural experience, consider staying with local families through homestay programmes. This not only provides affordable lodging but also allows travelers to connect with locals, learn about their way of life, and share cultural exchanges.

Staying Safe:

You might have heard horror stories about Central America, but just like all places, there's things to be wary of, parts to avoid, and risks. Don't let fear put you off travelling here, you need to be vigilant, but you don't need to constantly be on high alert. Violent crime against tourists is much less common than pickpockets and thieves.

1. ATMs: The most efficient way to get money out, you should still check that they haven't been tampered with before you try getting money out of them, especially if you're in a tourist area, where it's more likely to happen. If possible then get money out using ATMs located within banks.
2. Don't Walk Alone At Night: This is relevant for wherever you are, walking alone at night is never a good idea, and you want to avoid isolated areas at night altogether. Before you go out in the evening make sure you have a plan for how you'll get back, whether that's a taxi, tuk tuk, or walking home within a group. Avoid night buses, as robberies on them are common.
3. Scams: There are popular scams in every country, you can Google them before you go so you're aware what to look for, but asking staff at the hostels you're staying in is a great way to find out about local scams, places to avoid, and any other tips and recommendations they might have. One common scam in Central America is the broken taxi meter scam; when you get into the taxi the driver will tell you that the meter is broken and will charge you a crazy price. The way to avoid this is to negotiate rates ahead of time and check the meter is working before you get in if possible, if you get into a taxi where the driver tells you the meter is broken then just get back out and find another taxi.
4. Make Sure You're Insured: This is true of wherever in the world you're going, but you must make sure that you have appropriate travel insurance cover. This also needs to include any activities that you might decide to do on a whim, for example bungee jumping, ziplining, or horse riding. Cheaper isn't always better when it comes to insurance; you can read our guide to gap year insurance here.
5. Don't Underestimate the Sun: We really don't mean to sound like your parents, but if you don't look after your skin then you'll end up looking like a prune by the time you hit 50. Not only that, but getting sunburn hugely increases your risk of skin cancer later in life. Make sure you wear suncream (reef-safe if you're swimming in the ocean), take a hat, stay hydrated, and cover up in the heat of the day.
   

Conclusion:

Central America, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, attracts backpackers looking for an authentic and budget-friendly adventure. If you've read all of this and would still like a helping hand with planning you Central American travels then check out our backpacker advice hub or get in touch. So, pack your backpack, immerse yourself in Central America's charm, and let the journey unfold. Happy backpacking!

FAQs:

When is the best time to travel in Central America? The dry months are generally December - April so that's a great time to go. It will also be popular with other backpackers, so you'll meet lots of people.

What vaccinations will I need for Central America? Your doctor will advise, but in general hep A, tetanus, and typhoid are good places to start. Always speak to a medical professional about what kind of vaccinations you'll need.

Is Central America safe for solo female travellers? You need to exercise caution just like you would anywhere in the world, and if you're sticking to backpacker routes then you're unlikely to accidentally end up in an area of the country you should be avoiding. You're most at risk if you've been drinking and if you're alone, so drink responsibly and stay in groups.

Related Articles:

Ultimate Central America backpacker itinerary

How to navigate hostel etiquette

Where to go in Central and South America

Written by

Alice McLeod

on 04 / 12 / 2023

Prev | Next

Share on: