Central America

Costa Rica is renowned for its dedication to environmental conservation, and one of the country's most striking examples is the Agua y Paz Biosphere Reserve. This reserve is a testament to the country's efforts to harmonize ecological preservation with sustainable human development. Named "Water and Peace" to reflect its rich water resources and role in fostering peaceful coexistence with nature, the reserve covers diverse landscapes, from towering volcanoes to wetlands, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

The Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve, nestled in the southeastern Cordillera de Tilarán in north-central Costa Rica, is a vibrant sanctuary of tropical biodiversity. Part of the Arenal Tilaran Conservation Area, this Reserve safeguards the rich forested regions near San Ramón in the province of Puntarenas, making it a crucial ecological haven in the country.

Nestled in the southern reaches of the Central Highlands of Guatemala, Antigua Guatemala, affectionately known as "Antigua" or "La Antigua," stands as a timeless testament to the grandeur of colonial architecture and the resilience of its inhabitants in the face of natural calamities. Enveloped in a landscape of rolling hills and volcanic peaks, this historic city beckons visitors with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant streets, and magnificent architecture.

The Apaneca-Ilamatepec Biosphere Reserve is in western El Salvador, forming part of the Central America Volcanic Arc. Spanning a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, the reserve protects critical ecosystems that support species conservation and the livelihoods of local communities. With its unique volcanic landscape, cloud forests, and diverse wildlife, the biosphere reserve serves as a vital ecological corridor and a symbol of the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

Nestled in the lush landscapes of the Department of Izabal in southeastern Guatemala, the Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quiriguá stand as a testament to the grandeur of Mayan civilization. Located along the lower Motagua River, this World Heritage site is a captivating archaeological treasure trove that unfolds the mysteries of an ancient city.

The Archaeological Site of Panamá Viejo is an enduring testament to Panama's rich colonial history. Founded in 1519 by Spanish settlers, 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. Together with the Historic District of Panama, it forms a UNESCO site, preserving the remnants of Panama's early colonial architecture and urban planning.

Located in northern Costa Rica and positioned at the center of Arenal Volcano National Park, the Arenal Volcano stands as a symbol of Costa Rica's volcanic activity, natural beauty, and commitment to conservation. Arenal is renowned for its symmetrical cone shape, geological history, and the dramatic eruption that reawakened it in 1968. Although it has been dormant since 2010, Arenal continues to attract visitors from around the world who are drawn to its stunning landscape, biodiversity, and geothermal hot springs.

Barbilla National Park in Costa Rica is an important conservation area that protects natural and cultural treasures. It covers a humid lowland rainforest and plays a critical role in safeguarding the region's biodiversity and water resources. Despite being one of Costa Rica's least-visited national parks, its ecological richness and connection to the Indigenous Cabécar people provide an invaluable opportunity to understand the complex relationships between natural ecosystems and human communities.

Barú Volcano National Park, located in the Chiriquí Province of western Panama, is home to the tallest mountain in the country, the Barú Volcano. The Barú Volcano offers breathtaking views and a unique ecological environment. The park has diverse flora and fauna, rich cultural history, and geological significance. As a popular destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts, Barú Volcano National Park provides a unique opportunity to experience Panama's natural beauty and explore one of its most iconic landmarks.

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is a concrete manifestation of Belize's unwavering dedication to conserving its marine wonders. Established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, this intricate network encompasses seven protected areas, enhancing the extraordinary diversity of reef types and ecosystems within the Belize Barrier Reef.