World Heritage Sites in Central America

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.

Panamá Viejo, founded in 1519, is a testament to Panama's rich colonial history. It is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. Panamá Viejo retains its historical significance as the foundation of modern Panama City despite enduring natural disasters, pirate attacks, and relocation. It forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the Historic District of Panama, Casco Antiguo.

Tak'alik Ab'aj National Park in Guatemala's southwestern highlands is an important archaeological site that provides insight into Mesoamerica's cultural and historical evolution. With a blend of Olmec and Maya influences, it offers a crucial understanding of early civilizations in the region. Dating back to the 9th century BC, it was a significant hub for trade, ceremonies, and politics, and today stands as one of Central America's most important pre-Columbian sites.

A mysterious collection of over three hundred near-perfect stone spheres lies scattered among the tropical landscapes of Costa Rica's Diquís Delta and Isla del Caño. These remarkable artifacts, known locally as bolas de piedra, vary in size from small stones to massive spheres. Crafted by the now-extinct Diquís culture between 500 and 1500 CE, their true purpose remains unknown. The stone spheres not only showcase the craftsmanship and complexity of the Diquís people but also serve as an enduring symbol of Costa Rica's pre-Columbian heritage.

Located in the northwestern province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the Guanacaste Conservation Area (Área de Conservación Guanacaste—ACG) is a shining example of the country's unwavering commitment to environmental preservation. This protected area network is a true ecological masterpiece, comprising a mosaic of diverse ecosystems spanning the Pacific Ocean to the lowlands of the Caribbean basin.

Tikal, one of the largest and most significant archaeological sites of the ancient Maya civilization, stands as a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of a society that once flourished in the dense jungles of northern Guatemala. Today, Tikal is an iconic symbol of Maya architectural and cultural achievements and a crucial part of the vast Tikal National Park, a UNESCO site that preserves both the rich history and the extraordinary biodiversity of the region.