Budget travelers and students will find the wonders of these central Latin countries fascinating. From architectural accomplishments to virgin rainforests, a trip to Central America should rank high on your travel to do list.
Climb Mayan pyramids, bask in the sun on palm-fringed beach or relax in the shade of a puffing volcano. Whatever your passion, Central America is chock-full of possibilities for budget travel.
Finding a cheap flight to Central America can be a challenge. Many budget travelers take advantage of the discount fares to Mexico and then cross the border to Belize by bus. Flying to any Central American country through Mexico is always another money-saving option. For budget travel, try the StudentUniverse search engine to find a cheap flight to South America.
Youth hostel cards are of little use in Central America but may be handy if you are continuing south. Most guest houses and discount hotels may be willing to bargain over the price for a room during a slow season or if you intend to stay for an extended period of time.
A budget traveler could start out in Belize scuba diving and helping out on an archeological dig. Then, heading south by land, take advantage of what is unique to each country. Play James Bond of the Jungle skimming along the jungle canopy on a zip-line tour in Nicaragua. Soak in hot springs heated by an active volcano in Costa Rica. Marvel at the complicated lock system of the Panama Canal. Explore the many unspoiled rain forests teeming with wildlife. Drink in the gorgeous beaches all the way down each coast.