Central America
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HAS
BEFORE YOU LEAVE
know
Central America is a strip of land that stretches over 3,000 kilometers connecting North America and South America.
The exact definition of this continent varies greatly depending on the context. There are indeed differences between geographical boundaries and administrative boundaries.
THE PANAMERICAN
Did you know that it is possible to cross all of Central America on the same road? And yes, the Pan-American is a major road connecting North America to the South, with the exception of 159km of tropical forests, between Panama and Colombia, called Darien.
SECURITY
Should I be afraid to go to Central America? This is the question I am asked many times when I talk about my adventures in Mexico or Costa Rica.
It is important to know that homicides in these countries are largely due to drug traffickers and gangs fighting each other. Tourists are therefore not very concerned by these conflicts, however this violence goes beyond this strict framework and sometimes affects the traveler. In many of these countries, violence is endemic and remains the legacy of many years of civil war. It has become, in part, a means of resolving conflicts. In addition, many weapons are still in circulation.
You should therefore find out in advance about the areas to avoid and remain vigilant during your trip by using common sense.
GEOGRAPHY
Central America extends from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (Southern Mexico) in the north to the Isthmus of Darien (Panama) in the south. It is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the south and west. Mexico is therefore mainly located in North America, although the south of the country is attached to Central America.
The following countries are therefore included:
Guatemala (capital: Guatemala);
Belize (capital: Belmopan);
Honduras (capital: Tegucigalpa);
El Salvador (capital: San Salvador);
Nicaragua (capital: Managua);
Costa Rica (capital: San José);
Panama (capital: Panama).
Central America is crossed by the Central Cordillera, whose peaks can exceed 4,000 meters in altitude. Located at the intersection of the Caribbean plate, the North American plate and the Cocos plate, a volcanic chain runs along the Pacific coast from north to south of the region.
The Caribbean coast is made up of a tropical forest, which is only an extension of the Amazon. Thanks to this tropical forest, Central America is home to 7% of the world's biodiversity.
The Pacific coast, more hospitable because it is drier thanks to the relief protecting it from the Caribbean climate, is home to the majority of the Central American population.
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DESTINATIONS
MAP OF THE CONTINENT
MY BEST MEMORY
America
central
FOR
BEST
SEASON
to visit
In Central America, the climate is tropical and hot. Although altitude can vary temperatures and some geographical specificities influence the weather, there are no seasons (winter, summer, etc.) like in our country. There, the year is divided between a dry season, with high temperatures and little rainfall, and the rainy season with torrid temperatures and where the sun is rare.
Overall, the Caribbean areas are the rainiest and the Pacific areas are the driest. The temperature is usually around 20ºC at night and during the day and there is very high humidity.
Be careful, however, in certain higher altitude areas, particularly in central Guatemala or in Chiapas (state of Mexico) where temperatures are significantly lower.
The months of August, September and October are the wettest. The Caribbean is an area prone to hurricanes in autumn.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN TRAVELING?
TOURISM
Due to its reputation as a "dangerous region", the continent has long been neglected by travelers. However, the diversity and cultural richness concentrated in Central America attract more and more tourists every year. With many UNESCO World Heritage sites and exceptional natural sites, tourism on the continent is gradually developing.
With this expansion of tourism comes some advantages for travelers who venture there. In terms of transportation, all the major tourist sites are very well served by shuttles or coaches that even cross borders. In terms of accommodation, almost all youth hostels or hotels offer must-see activities as well as transportation to your next destination.
However, this tourism also brings constraints for us, travelers. I am thinking in particular of the increasing prices and of certain natural sites that are being closed for their own protection.
The Caribbean region attracts snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts thanks to one of the largest coral reefs in the world, the Mesoamerican Great Barrier Reef. On the other side, on the Pacific coast, many enthusiasts come to try their hand at surfing every year.
TRADITIONS AND CULTURE
Some local traditions are deeply rooted in the culture of the Central American population. Indeed, you will probably attend one of the many cultural festivals that take place in the streets of the cities throughout the year (Semana Santa, Day of the Dead, Carnival, etc.).
Great civilizations that have disappeared, such as the Mayans or the Aztecs, have also left visible traces on the territory. You will have the opportunity to discover many ruined temples that are very well preserved and often surrounded by lush jungle.
By combining the best of both worlds (a tropical paradise and very attractive customs), your stay in Central America offers exceptional experiences.
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April 2019
