Through Middle America Classic Road Trip Itinerary
The Through Middle America Classic Road Trip is an amazing journey that takes you from Guatemala City to Panama City, through some of Central America's most beautiful and diverse landscapes. The route spans a distance of approximately 2540 km and takes around 21 days to complete, making it a great option for those looking for a longer, more immersive experience. May to October is the best time of year to take this road trip, as the weather is ideal for exploring the many historical sites, lush landscapes, and diverse nature that you'll find along the way.
You'll begin your journey in Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, and make your way south to Copan Ruinas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in the world. From there, you'll continue on to Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras, and then to Managua, Nicaragua's largest city. As you make your way to Playa del Coco, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, before heading to the capital of Costa Rica, San José. Finally, you'll make your way to Panama City, the vibrant capital of Panama, to end your epic journey.
The roads are generally in good condition, although there are some curvy and narrow roads along the way. You will also need to cross a few borders, so be sure to bring your documents. Despite the challenges, this road trip is an incredible opportunity to explore a region steeped in history and culture, as well as stunning natural beauty. With a moderate budget and a bit of preparation, you can make this road trip an unforgettable experience that will provide memories to last a lifetime.
21
number of days
2,365 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Guatemala City
Distance 2,365 km
Driving time 43.0 h
Pace: modest
614.8 kWh
Airports
GUA
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GSJ
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Guatemala City is the perfect starting point for the "Through Middle America Classic Road Trip". It is the largest city in the country, and as such, offers a variety of attractions and activities. The city is full of culture and history, with many interesting museums, churches, and monuments to explore. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and bird-watching.
For those flying in to start their road trip, Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport (GUA) is the closest international airport. There are car rental services available at the airport, making it an ideal starting point for a road trip.
When in the city, travelers should ensure to visit some of the main attractions in town. These include the National Palace of Culture, the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, and the Museo Popol Vuh. Other points of interest include the Miraflores Museum, the Palacio Nacional de la Cultura, and the Cathedral of Guatemala City.
Guatemala City is the perfect starting point for a road trip through Middle America. With plenty of interesting sights to explore and car rental options available at the airport, travelers can begin their journey with ease.
1
Guatemala City
- Copan Ruinas
Distance 239 km
Driving time 5.2 h
Pace: modest
62.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Guatemala City to Copan Ruinas? This journey of approximately 240km will take you fewer than 5 hours and you will get to experience the sights of Guatemalan countryside, as well as cross a beautiful state border. Along the way, you will have the chance to visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Pre-Columbian Maya sites of Quiriguá and Copán.
The roads are mostly flat, so you don't have to worry about any steep hills. However, there are plenty of scenic routes that you can take to make the most out of your journey. As you drive, make sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, as well as the breathtaking views of the Guatemalan countryside.
This is just one stage of a larger tour, so make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. With plenty of exciting activities and beautiful sights to explore, this road trip is sure to be an adventure you won't forget.
Copan Ruinas - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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2
Copan Ruinas
- Lago de Yojoa
Distance 232 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: modest
60.4 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Copan Ruinas to Lago de Yojoa for an adventure of a lifetime! The 232 km journey will take less than 6 hours and offer you an amazing experience filled with historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit some UNESCO Heritage sites, as well as drive through winding roads and narrow sections. Enjoy the breathtaking views and be sure to stay safe on the road. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” section of this stage. So start planning your journey now and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Lago de Yojoa - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Lago de Yojoa
- Tegucigalpa
Distance 174 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
52.1 kWh
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Embark on a 174 km road trip from Lago de Yojoa to Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras! This drive will take you fewer than 3 hours and will provide you with an incredible journey with plenty of opportunities to discover the hidden gems of this country.
Start your journey from Lago de Yojoa, the largest lake in the country and a popular spot for birdwatching. Be sure to take time to appreciate the stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. Then, continue to the historical Mayan ruins of Copan, which are among the most important archaeological sites in Central America. Don’t forget to take a few pictures of the stunning stelae and the impressive Hieroglyphic Staircase.
As you leave Copan, make sure to take in the breathtaking views of the lush landscapes of the area. Then, take a break at the beautiful Valle de Angeles, a charming colonial village with plenty of attractions. Here, you can visit the local museum, the churches, and the artisans’ market.
Finally, your journey will end in Tegucigalpa, the capital of Honduras. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this vibrant city, where you can find a great variety of attractions, from museums to colonial churches and old plazas.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Tegucigalpa - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Tegucigalpa
- Choluteca
Distance 141 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: modest
36.6 kWh
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Start your road trip in Tegucigalpa, Honduras and journey through the heart of the country to Choluteca! In only three hours, you can cover the 141 km of winding roads that separate these two cities. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for historical sites, like the 18th century ruins of San Juan de Opoa. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you can even try your hand at rafting at the nearby Río Choluteca. When you’re done exploring, you can take a break at one of the many camping spots near the river. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage!
Choluteca - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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5
Choluteca
- Managua
Distance 253 km
Driving time 4.5 h
Pace: modest
65.8 kWh
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Choluteca, Honduras to Managua, Nicaragua? This 426 km journey will take you less than 9 hours to complete and you will cross the state border. The most interesting places to visit in Choluteca are the National Botanical Garden, the historical center, and the ancient ruins of Atlantida. Meanwhile, in Managua, you will find plenty of exciting attractions such as the Ruben Dario National Theater, the Revolution Square, and the old cathedral. Along the way, you will also be able to admire the picturesque landscapes and the scenic roads. Don't forget to take some time to appreciate the traditional architecture of the small towns you will cross. To make the most of your trip, more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore and have an amazing road trip!
Managua - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Managua
- Granada
Distance 46 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: modest
11.9 kWh
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Embark on an exhilarating road trip between Managua and Granada! This 46-kilometer journey will take you less than an hour to complete, leaving you plenty of time to explore these two beautiful cities.
Start your journey in Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Managua and its surrounding volcanoes. Take a stroll around the old colonial center and visit the Rubén Darío National Theater. You can also explore the National Palace of Culture and the neoclassical Cathedral of Managua.
Continue your journey to Granada, a city known for its historic streets and colorful colonial-style buildings. Visit the majestic Granada Cathedral and take a relaxing stroll along the shores of Lake Nicaragua. Then, explore the famous Isletas of Granada, a group of small islands formed by a volcanic eruption.
During your drive, be sure to keep your eyes open for the picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and historical sites that characterize this route.
For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
Granada - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Granada
- Playa del Coco
Distance 216 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
56.2 kWh
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Embark on a 217-km road trip from Granada, Nicaragua to Playa del Coco, Costa Rica! This scenic journey, taking 4 hours or less to complete, will take you through beautiful landscapes and offer glimpses of historical sites. As you cross the border, keep your eyes peeled for the winding roads and picturesque views. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve, the San Juan de Oriente Pottery Factory, and the Catarina Mirador viewpoint for some breathtaking sights! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a dip in the iconic Apoyo Lagoon. With so much to explore, this is one road trip you won’t want to miss! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Playa del Coco - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Playa del Coco
- Liberia
Distance 35 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: slow
8.1 kWh
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Welcome to the Playa del Coco - Liberia road trip stage! This scenic route is a 35 km drive that should take you less than an hour. Along the way, you'll be treated to incredible views of the Costa Rican countryside. Be sure to keep your eyes open for historical sites that you may stumble upon.
When you start in Playa del Coco, you'll be able to visit the nearby beach and explore the small town. For more adventure, you can take a tour of the nearby rainforest and get up close with the local wildlife. If you're looking for something a bit more relaxed, you can also take a boat tour and explore the coastline.
Once you get to Liberia, you'll be able to visit the local churches and museums. You'll also be able to take a tour of the nearby hot springs and enjoy the unique geothermal features. To end your trip, take a stroll around the downtown area and browse the many shops and restaurants.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary for this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey!
Liberia - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Liberia
- San José
Distance 210 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: modest
54.6 kWh
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Are you ready to embark on an amazing road trip from Liberia to San José? This 210 km long journey is filled with plenty of interesting sights and experiences, and takes less than four hours to drive. Along the way, you'll see beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and quaint towns.
As you leave Liberia, be sure to stop by the iconic Church of La Ermita La Agonía, a beautiful white chapel with colonial-style architecture. After that, you can drive through the scenic mountain roads with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and picturesque villages.
Next, you'll arrive in Cañas, where you'll find the Venado Caves, an ancient underground network of caverns and tunnels filled with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites. Not far away is the Palo Verde National Park, a wonderful place to explore nature and observe exotic birds and wildlife.
As you continue your journey, you'll come across the rolling hills of Guanacaste, home to some of the most stunning views and landscapes in the country. Here, you can visit the Miravalles Volcano, the largest active volcano in Costa Rica, and the Tenorio Volcano National Park, a beautiful park with lush forests, rivers, and waterfalls.
Finally, you'll reach the bustling city of San José, where you can find a variety of attractions, such as the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, the National Theater, and the Central Market. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
San José - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
San José - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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10
San José
- Orosi
Distance 20 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: slow
4.6 kWh
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Embark on an incredible road trip from San José, Costa Rica to Orosi! It's only a 20 km drive and should take you less than 1 hour. Along the way, you'll be treated to a variety of historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Take note of the winding roads in some sections, and don't forget to take lots of pictures to capture the beauty of this journey. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Costa Rican countryside and make sure to explore the interesting sites in San José and Orosi. You'll find plenty of cultural attractions, restaurants, and accommodation options in both cities. If you're looking for a place to camp, you'll find plenty of great spots along the route. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Orosi - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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11
Orosi
- Neily
Distance 286 km
Driving time 5.7 h
Pace: modest
74.5 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip from Orosi to Neily? This 287km long route through Costa Rica's beautiful countryside will take you less than 6 hours to drive. Along the way you'll see historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and a scenic road. Be aware that in some sections the road is very winding, but the drive is well worth it. The journey is part of a larger tour but you can certainly enjoy it as a stand-alone adventure. Don't forget to take in the sights and sounds of the Orosi Valley, the Coto Brus River, the San Vito de Java National Park, and the tropical forests of the Talamanca Mountains. There are plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, so be sure to check the Itinerary for more information. So, buckle up and get ready for a memorable journey through Costa Rica!
Neily - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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12
Neily
- Santiago
Distance 263 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: fast
78.8 kWh
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Are you looking to explore the beautiful Central American country of Costa Rica? If so, then a road trip from Neily to Santiago is a must! This 263 km journey will take you less than four hours, and there are plenty of interesting sights to see along the way.
Your journey will start in Neily, where you can visit the iconic Church of San Miguel Arcangel and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local market. As you drive, you'll pass through the charming mountain town of San Vito and the vibrant city of Paso Canoas, where you'll cross the border into Panama.
Once you're back in Costa Rica, you'll have the chance to explore the picturesque town of David and the stunning landscape of Volcan Baru National Park. Afterward, you'll drive through the colorful city of Boquete before arriving in Santiago. Here, you can visit the famous Iglesia de Santiago Apostol and explore the nearby Mirador de los Tigres.
No matter where you go, you're sure to have an amazing time on this exciting road trip. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore Costa Rica!
Santiago - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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13
Santiago
- Panama City
Distance 249 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: fast
74.7 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Santiago, Panama to Panama City! This 249 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll get to witness some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes in Central America. Make sure to keep an eye out for historical sites and monuments, as some of them are UNESCO Heritage sites. The drive is full of surprises, so make sure to explore the local towns and villages to uncover hidden gems. From the old colonial town of Las Tablas to the lush green landscape of El Valle, you’ll never be bored. Don’t forget to take pictures of the stunning scenery along the way! For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites, check out the Itinerary for this stage of the road trip. Enjoy the journey!
Panama City - Guatemala - Middle America - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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Panama City
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After a long drive through Middle America, travelers will find themselves in Panama City, the vibrant capital of Panama. Located at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Panama City offers a unique mix of modern amenities and ancient culture.
The old town of Panama City, Casco Viejo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination. Here, travelers can explore the ruins of the original Spanish settlement, the old churches, and the cobblestone streets. The nearby Panama Canal offers an up-close view of the engineering wonder, while a boat tour can provide a great view of the canal from the water.
For a taste of local culture, head to the fish market in the old city to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a busy fish market. Here, visitors can purchase fresh seafood and sample the local cuisine.
In the modern city, travelers can find plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. For a unique experience, take a drive around the city’s famous Causeway Bridge, which connects the mainland to the man-made islands of Amador.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Panama City is Tocumen International Airport (PTY), located just outside the city.
Whether traveling by car or by air, Panama City offers a unique mix of modern amenities and ancient culture that is sure to delight any traveler. So, make sure to include Panama City on your next road trip through Middle America.
Through Middle America Classic Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Guatemala City
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End:
Panama City
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Distance:
2,365 km
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Stay:
21 days
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Getting there:
La Aurora Airport (GUA),
San José Airport (GSJ)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Through Middle America Classic Road Trip is an unforgettable 2540 km (1,578 miles) journey from Guatemala City to Panama City, typically taking an estimated 21 days to complete. This expansive Road Trip is a gateway to Central America's rich tapestry of history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Guatemala City: The starting point known for its mix of modern and historic architecture, including the National Palace of Culture and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
- Copan Ruinas: In Honduras, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts some of the most impressive Mayan ruins, featuring intricate hieroglyphic stairways and ancient stelae.
- Tegucigalpa: The capital city of Honduras offers colonial history with landmarks such as the Basilica of Suyapa and the National Identity Museum.
- Managua: Nicaragua's capital and largest city, with attractions like the Old Cathedral of Managua and the National Palace of Culture.
- Playa del Coco: A popular beach destination in Costa Rica known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent opportunities for water sports and wildlife viewing.
- San José: Costa Rica's cultural hub offers numerous museums, parks, and the pre-Columbian Gold Museum.
- Panama City: The bustling capital of Panama is characterized by its famous Panama Canal, the historic Casco Viejo district, and the Miraflores Locks.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal period for taking this Road Trip is during the drier months, from November to April, to avoid the heavy rains that can affect travel plans and outdoor activities. However, the wet season from May to October can also offer lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but Road conditions can be more challenging.
Potential Risks:
- The region's Roads can be curvy, narrow, and at times poorly maintained, so experienced driving skills are recommended.
- Border crossings between countries require patience and proper documentation; it's essential to research and prepare for each country's specific entry requirements.
- Safety and security conditions can change, so regularly update your information on regional advisories and travel warnings.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- A moderate budget can afford travelers a comfortable experience, with a variety of affordable lodging and dining options.
- Pre-Trip vehicle maintenance and an organized set of personal and vehicle documents will ease the journey.
- The region is home to an array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, national parks, and biosphere reserves, such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Rica and the Darien National Park in Panama.
- Central America is a biodiversity hotspot, with a chance to see exotic wildlife such as jaguars, quetzals, and sea turtles in their natural habitats.
A good choice for:
The Through Middle America Classic Road Trip is not just a drive from point A to B; it's a cultural odyssey and ecological expedition rolled into one. With the right amount of planning and an adventurous heart, Roadtrippers will forge unforgettable memories and return with stories of Central America's heart and soul.
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