Visit some untapped gems that only true travelers discover
Known only to a select few, there are some absolute gems hiding in Nicaragua. Similar in climate, things to do, and the adventures to have in Costa Rica, you can experience all of that (and more) without battling the crowds and higher prices you'll find in similar countries. It feels like a completely new experience, traveling in this particularly Central American country. Fairly new to the tourist industry, Nicaragua is home to thing you knew you were looking for, and experiences completely unique to this country.
When it comes to Nicaragua, you can definitely take the road more traveled, or go off the beaten path. See charming cities your friends at home didn't know existed and have experiences you didn't know were hiding in Nicaragua.
- The Colorful City Of Granada (home to these chocolate massages, by the way)
- Find Your Favorite Beach In San Juan Del Sur
- Soak In Volcanic Pools On Ometepe island
- See the best beaches along the Pacific Coast
- Hike around Chinandega
- Choose the right volcano to climb
- Swim in the Apoyo Lagoon
- Experience Paradise in Nicaragua's Corn Islands
- Go volcano boarding while visiting Leon
Come for zip lines through the rain forest, the chance to hike to waterfalls, and spend time on the beach after exploring the jungle.
You know what's waiting for you in Costa Rica: A paradise of jungles and coastlines and crammed full of adventures ... to name a few highlights. Costa Rica is a well-known mecca for yoga retreats, a pura vida lifestyle, and everything from backpacker hang-outs to relaxing beach-side resorts. Green and vibrant in some spots, boasting adventures and sandy shores and complete with an artsy capital city, There are more than enough gems to explore — including the most Instagrammable spots in Costa Rica.
- Test out the "Tarzan Swing" in the Monteverde Rain Forest
- Swim in the bluest water at Blue Falls
- Zipline through Manuel Antonio's Jungle
- Go surfing in Jaco
- Chase waterfalls on the Ballena Coast
- Hang out on the golden sands of Tamarindo's beaches.
- Arenal Volcano has gorgeous hiking trains and dreamy hot springs
- Get beaches and the jungle at Cahuita National Park
- Spot sloths!
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Hiding dreamy beach-getaways and dense jungles, Panama is our number pick for vacation time.
Surprised that you'll find starfish dotted islands in Panama? This country will continue to surprise you in the best ways possible. Our volunteers living in Nicaragua and Costa Rica love spending time in Panama on vacation for more than a few reasons.
Found tucked below Costa Rica, it's an easily accessible country thanks to multiple flights and frequent bus routes that link Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. You'll get a distinctively different feel than what you'd experience in Nicaragua or Costa Rica ... something that keeps us coming back, wanting more. Explore some of the world's prettiest beaches, go island hopping on the Caribbean side (or the Pacific Side), or use this country as a gateway some of the world's most well-known rainforests or the most pristine Caribbean islands.
- Found on the Caribbean Side of Panama, Bocas Del Toro is our #1 vacation spot here
- Relax on the other side of Panama in Boca Chica
- Absolutely fall head over heels with the mountain town, Boquete
- Hang out in the country's capital with our favorite things to do in Panama City
Get a bit of help traveling around with these pro tips
Wondering how to map it all out? We know the struggle of seeing so many incredible places and needing to decide which ones are really worth your time. Whether you're looking for vacation ideas that fit in a weekend or need ideas on where else to visit in a certain part of the country, these vacay guides are exactly that.
- This handy vacation planner for Nicaragua
- Figure out where to vacation in Costa Rica
