Central America

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System comprises seven protected areas along Central America's northeastern coast. Hosting diverse marine habitats, including iconic sites like the Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye, it is vital in preserving unique reef types, biodiversity, and habitats for threatened species.

Belize has many lakes, lagoons, and approximately 35 major rivers, the longest of which is the Belize River. The bodies of water are essential for drinking, agriculture, and hydroelectric power generation. They are also popular for recreation, such as fishing, swimming, and rafting.

The Belize Barrier Reef System is a remarkable natural wonder encompassing many ecosystems, offering breathtaking natural beauty and abundant marine life. The islands and cayes of Belize are renowned as popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world.

The cultural landscape of Belize is a tapestry of indigenous, colonial, and Afro-Caribbean influences, blending to create a vibrant and unique identity that reflects the diversity and heritage of its people.

Belize is located along the Caribbean coast of northeastern Central America. Known as British Honduras until 1973, its geography consists of heavily forested plains and the Maya Mountains. The Belize Barrier Reef System flanks the coastline while cays and atolls dot the reef.

Some well-known and historically significant pre-Columbian Maya archaeological sites are found in Belize, considered part of the southern Maya lowlands of the Mesoamerican culture area. The sites found here were occupied until the arrival of the Spanish.

Central America is a region blessed with a remarkable diversity of mountain ranges that span its seven countries. These mountainous landscapes contribute to the region's captivating scenery, rich ecological heritage, and cultural significance

Costa Rica, located in Central America, boasts a rich and diverse cultural landscape shaped by its history, natural beauty, and ethnic diversity. It combines historical influences, vibrant traditions, environmental stewardship, and a love for life, making it a unique and fascinating destination.

Costa Rica has several islands and archipelagos off its Pacific and Caribbean coasts. These islands and archipelagos offer a range of experiences, from biodiverse conservation areas to opportunities for cultural immersion and outdoor activities.

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica boasts an array of diverse mountainous regions that span from its northern border to its southern shores. Two chains of mountains run from northwest to southeast, almost the entire length of Costa Rica. 

Costa Rica is located in southern Central America, bordered by Nicaragua in the north and Panama in the southeast. The Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean form its eastern and southwestern coastlines. Its geography features coastal plains and rainforests separated by rugged mountains and volcanoes.

El Salvador is home to diverse water bodies contributing to its natural beauty and ecological significance. From expansive lakes and picturesque lagoons to bays, gulfs, and meandering rivers, these bodies of water shape the landscape and are essential to the country's ecosystem.

El Salvador is located in northern Central America, where it is both the smallest and most densely populated country. Its geographic landscape features two parallel mountain ranges that cross the country with a central plateau between them and a narrow coastal plain hugging the Pacific Ocean.

El Salvador has five archaeological parks, plus a Mesoamerican site. The Yucatán Peninsula and the Petén Basin/Maya Forest region of Belize, Guatemala and Mexico have become synonymous with Maya ruins; however, several sites in El Salvador are important.

Guatemala is known for its diverse and beautiful bodies of water, which play crucial roles in its natural environment, economy, and culture. They are essential resources for recreation, water-based activities, and tourism opportunities while sustaining local communities and supporting biodiversity.

The cultural landscape of Guatemala is a fusion of ancient traditions, colonial influences, and contemporary expressions. It showcases the country's rich indigenous heritage, artistic craftsmanship, vibrant music and dance, flavorful cuisine, and a deep connection to its natural and historical surroundings.

Guatemala is the third-largest country in Central America. Situated in a geologically active region, its geography is characterized by three major geographic regions or zones: the Petén lowlands, the Guatemalan highlands, and the Pacific coast flatlands.

Honduras boasts diverse bodies of water that significantly contribute to the country's natural beauty, biodiversity, and economy. These bodies of water also play essential roles in supporting various economic activities, such as fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

The cultural landscape of Honduras is a diverse tapestry that reflects its indigenous roots, colonial history, African heritage, and contemporary expressions. It is a blend of ancient traditions, religious customs, artistic endeavors, and vibrant folklore that contributes to the country's unique identity.

Honduras has a diverse coastal geography, including several notable islands and archipelagos in the Bay of Honduras and the Caribbean Sea. Honduras's islands and archipelagos offer unique landscapes, cultural experiences, and natural wonders for visitors to explore.

Honduras, located in northern Central America, is mostly mountainous. Lowlands are situated along its Pacific and Caribbean coasts and the river valleys of the interior. Most of the population resides in the central highlands, an economically important agricultural region.

The Maya Forest Corridor is a conservation initiative in Belize to protect and restore critical ecosystems and promote biodiversity. The Maya Mountain Marine Corridor is an initiative that combines conservation efforts beyond the traditional boundaries of terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

The Mesoamerican Biological Corridor is a remarkable conservation initiative in Central America that stands as a beacon of biodiversity preservation. Stretching from Mexico to Panama, this corridor encompasses a mosaic of ecosystems and is a critical link between protected areas.

Nicaragua hosts an impressive array of water bodies, contributing to its natural beauty and ecological significance. From vast lakes to meandering rivers and serene lagoons, Nicaragua's waterways play a vital role in shaping its landscape, supporting diverse ecosystems, and providing valuable resources.

Nicaragua, located in Central America, possesses a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape shaped by its indigenous roots, Spanish colonial heritage, and contemporary influences. The country's cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its diverse communities.

Nicaragua has several islands and archipelagos scattered across its Caribbean and Pacific coasts. The country has a long coastline and diverse geography, home to various islands, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities.

Nicaragua is situated in Central America between Honduras in the north and Costa Rica in the south. Its geography divides the country into three major zones: the Pacific lowlands, the north-central highlands, and the Caribbean lowlands or Mosquito Coast.

Panama hosts diverse water bodies that greatly influence its geography, ecology, and economy. These bodies of water provide valuable fishing, transportation, and tourism resources and support rich ecosystems that make Panama a unique and biodiverse destination in the region.

Panama's cultural landscape is a tapestry of indigenous heritage, African influences, colonial history, and contemporary expressions. The country embraces diversity, promoting cultural preservation and celebration as an integral part of its national identity.

Panama's islands and archipelagos are primarily found along its Caribbean and Pacific coastlines. The country's diverse coastline offers various island experiences, from vibrant cultural interactions to pristine natural habitats.

Panama is the southernmost country of Central America, located on the elongated S-shaped Isthmus of Panama, the narrow land bridge that connects North and South America. Its landscape comprises three major physical regions: mountains, coastal lowlands, and archipelagos.

SINAC, Costa Rica's National System of Conservation Areas, is a model for conservation efforts worldwide. With its numerous national parks and other protected areas, Costa Rica has dedicated over a quarter of its landmass to conservation, making it one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth.

Central America serves as a vital land bridge connecting the North and South American continents. Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this region extends from southeastern Mexico to northwestern Colombia. It weaves a rich tapestry of natural and cultural landscapes.

Latin America, a vast and diverse region, stretches from the southern border of the United States to the southern tip of South America, encompassing many countries, cultures, landforms, and ecosystems, including Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.