Protected Areas in Central America

In the southeastern corner of Panama, Darién National Park is a sprawling sanctuary in the Darién Province. Recognized as a World Heritage Site, it is one of Central America's most ecologically and culturally significant protected areas. The park boasts an exceptional variety of ecosystems and serves as a vital habitat for numerous species, including critically endangered mammals and birds. It is also a living cultural landscape, home to several indigenous and Afro-descendant communities.

Nestled on the picturesque Nicoya Peninsula in western Costa Rica, Barra Honda National Park stands as a testament to the country's geological marvels and rich biodiversity. Established in 1974, this protected area in the province of Guanacaste encompasses a fascinating landscape shaped by millions of years of geological processes and teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Nestled in the rugged Sierra Madre de Chiapas mountain range of western El Salvador, El Imposible National Park is a sanctuary of breathtaking natural beauty and unparalleled biodiversity. This vast expanse of protected wilderness offers a rare glimpse into the country's rich ecological heritage, showcasing a diverse array of ecosystems and a wealth of flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.

Cahuita National Park, located along Costa Rica's stunning Caribbean coast, is a small yet ecologically rich protected area that is immensely significant for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Its purpose is to preserve one of the country's most extensive coral reefs and protect the diverse tropical ecosystems that thrive along Costa Rica's Caribbean coastline. Renowned for its biodiversity and historical ties to the Indigenous Bribri people, the park is a testament to the interconnection between natural conservation and cultural preservation.

Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's Central Highlands, the Cordillera Volcánica Central Biosphere Reserve is a testament to the country's rich natural and cultural heritage. Recognized for its immense ecological and cultural significance, the Cordillera Volcánica Central Biosphere Reserve offers a captivating journey through Costa Rica's volcanic heartland, where ancient peaks, dense forests, and vibrant ecosystems converge to create a breathtaking tapestry of natural wonders.

The Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve, located in northeastern Honduras along the Mosquito Coast, is the largest protected area in the country. The reserve protects the entire watershed of the Río Plátano, from its mountainous headwaters to its mouth on the Caribbean Sea. It forms part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, an essential ecological region that connects Central American ecosystems. In addition to its natural beauty, the reserve holds significant archaeological and cultural importance, with both pre-Columbian heritage sites and thriving indigenous communities.

Pico Bonito National Park, nestled in the heart of Honduras, is a breathtaking sanctuary that exemplifies the country's remarkable biodiversity and rugged natural beauty. The park is home to towering peaks, lush tropical forests, and crystal-clear rivers. Its diverse ecosystems harbor a stunning variety of plant and animal species, making it one of Central America's most biologically rich regions. Accessible yet pristine, Pico Bonito offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature.

Irazú Volcano, an awe-inspiring active stratovolcano, is a prominent feature in Costa Rica's Cordillera Central. Close to the city of Cartago, this natural wonder is the highest active volcano in the country. Its rich history, significant eruptions, and diverse ecosystems are preserved within the boundaries of the Irazú Volcano National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Lake Izabal, Guatemala's largest lake, is a vital resource with significant historical importance. Located in the east, it connects inland rivers to the Caribbean Sea via the Río Dulce. At its entrance, Castillo de San Felipe de Lara symbolizes Guatemala's colonial past. Built in the 17th century, it protected Spanish trade from pirates and is now a national monument. The nearby Río Dulce National Park, with its rainforests and unique ecosystems, adds to the area's ecological and cultural value.

Los Katíos National Park, a protected wildlife sanctuary nestled in northwest Colombia near the border with Panama, is a true ecological marvel. Located within the Darién Gap, a densely forested area shared by Panama and Colombia, Los Katíos National Park encompasses significant wetland areas, including the vast Ciénagas de Tumaradó. It boasts a remarkable biodiversity and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.