Central America · Costa Rica · Nicaragua · Panama · Regions
Untamed Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama
sustainable tourism; in a country with so much natural beauty, great value is placed on its protection. The country is largely covered in rainforest and cloud forest and has an incredible amount of bird species, special mammals, reptiles and butterflies. A tour of Costa Rica is a must for any nature lover!
Due to the relatively small surface area of Costa Rica, the various attractions are easy to combine. This makes traveling through Costa Rica very enjoyable. For example, there is El Arenal, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, where you have a great chance to see the red-hot lava flowing in the evening. Then Tortuguero National Park, where you may witness the giant sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach. Or Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its beautiful beaches and wide variety of wildlife, where you may spot the rare squirrel monkey during your hikes.
Birdwatchers will find their eldorado in Parque National Los Quetzales, one of the best parks to spot the unique Quetzal bird. A journey through Costa Rica can not be without a visit to the Monteverde cloud forest, via suspension bridges of up to 35 meters high or abseiling via cables from platform to platform, this is a unique way to see the various animals of this park high in the trees. The Osa Peninsula on the Pacific Ocean is an impressive and wild nature reserve and without a doubt one of the natural pearls of Costa Rica. The protected Corcovado located there is not only one of the country’s most important national parks because of its size and diversity of flora and fauna, Isla Caño in Corcovado Bay is also a fantastic diving destination. Pura naturaleza!
Panama: A barely discovered natural paradise
When we think of Panama, we first of all think of vibrant Panama-City and the famous canal that connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and is one of the most important waterways in the world. But Panama has so much more to offer! This narrow country on the border between two continents is an absolute natural paradise that is still barely discovered. Like it’s incredible beaches, cloud forest covered mountain ranges and pristine jungle!
On the Pacific Pearl Islands, you’ll find several beautiful white, black and golden beaches that contrast beautifully with the calm blue and turquoise waters. The islands are covered with tropical forests.
Private Isla Palenque, situated in the Pacific near Chiriqui National Park, is also a must because of its whales, dolphins and most idyllic beaches. Once the island was the scene of sacred ceremonies of indigenous tribes from which it owes the name Palenque (sanctuary). Hundreds of years later, it is still a secluded place where rare primary forest and hundreds of species of plants, flowers and animals are undisturbed. You’ll find only one unique “Untamed” accommodation, Isla Palenque. With only a handful of casitas and a villa in the middle of enchanting jungle, staying here is only for the privileged few.
Caribbean Coast
Bocas del Toro is an archipelago on the Caribbean coast. Here you will find crystal clear waters with beautiful coral reefs, dolphins, palm trees, mangroves and a friendly population. Although Bocas del Toro is the most visited place by tourists in Panama, it has managed to retain its authentic atmosphere.
There are between 350 and 400 small islands counted as the Caribbean San Blas Islands, 50 of which are inhabited by the native Kuna Yala Indians. The Kuna Indians themselves say that for every day of the year there is an island on San Blas. The area can be seen as an autonomous province where the Panamanian government interferes as little as possible. As a result, there is little negative influence on the interesting culture of the Kunas. They have their own language, customs and culture. The clothing of the women is stunning, as is the music and dance. This is a great destination to relax and enjoy sun, sea and beach combined with culture.
The backbone of the country is formed by cloud forest covered mountain ranges where some of the world’s best hotspots for birdwatchers are located and where a rich fauna can be discovered. On the border with the South American continent, you will find a pristine jungle, the famous Darién and its authentic forest dwellers, the Embera.
Travel to Central America and get ready for rich culture, lush rainforests and incredible beaches. Treat yourself to an unparalleled adventure. Where the world can’t find you…
Jozef Verbruggen is Director and Owner of Untamed Travelling. Untamed Travelling is a travel designer that specializes in high-end bespoke travel experiences around the globe.
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With chilled-out Caribbean vibes on one side and the monster Pacific swells on the other, Central America is perched between the most heavenly tropical beaches. These sun-drenched powdery sands sculpt a golden frame of a treasure chest of cultures and lush rain and cloud forests full of life. Let us take you to the most beautiful places on earth, where the world can’t find you….
Nicaragua: Colonial gems and authentic culture
Would you rather explore something new than follow the well-worn tourist trails? Then come to friendly “off the beaten track” Nicaragua. This country offers numerous natural attractions such as the many volcanoes with impressive flora and fauna but also beautiful beaches against a wall of rainforest. You’ll find a surprising variety of exotic animals, including spider, howler and capuchin monkeys, deer and an abundance of native migratory birds and reptiles, and endless sandy beaches visited by nesting sea turtles throughout the year. The big barrels of the Pacific coast are revered in surfing circles, while the clear waters of the Corn Islands are excellent for snorkeling.
What really sets Nicaragua apart from neighboring Costa Rica is its Spanish colonial and indigenous culture. The elegant streetscapes of Granada, Nicaragua’s best-preserved colonial city, have enchanted travelers with their architectural grace for centuries. The city boasts a meticulously restored cathedral, a well-maintained plaza, and perfectly kept mansions that shelter lush courtyards. The much less polished León offers a different colonial experience, where crumbling 300-year-old houses and churches are interspersed with revolutionary murals and architectural masterpieces house stores on the corner. Yet Nicaragua’s greatest attraction is probably the charm, authenticity and hospitality of its proud and vibrant inhabitants. No matter how far you go, you’ll always find friendly locals willing to share their culture with strangers.
Costa Rica: Unprecedented natural beauty
Costa Rica is known for its Did you enjoy this article?
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A beautiful and colourful collection of images that are a really appealing advert for the region. Amazing diversity of wildlife.
Thank you Caroline. The diversity of flora and fauna of these destinations is stunning!
Untamed is what we’re all desperate for. After being caged up like battery hens for over a year we’re all desperate for a walk on the wild side.
Nicaragua has been off most travellers’ radar for a long time which is probably why it’s beginning to interest me. It’s great to get into places before they start catering to the tourists and lose their soul.
Nicaragua is definitely one of the hidden gems of Central America. We’d be happy to assist you!
Thank you for your kind words Jen. We are here to make it happen :)
As a 20 year resident of Costa Rica, please correct some of your inaccurate information. Arenal is not know as “El Arenal”. It has many other names, El Arenal is not one of them. Additionally, Arenal is dormant and has been since 2010. There is no “great chance” to see the volcano erupting at this time. The Arenal area has many wonderful attractions; however, please do not suggest possibilities that are not truthful. Many thanks!
Dear Lisa, thank you for sharing your knowledge. Indeed, the volcano is in a resting phase at the moment. Although that could change within a matter of months or years. So hopefully we can watch the much-loved explosions in the (near) future again :)
I have be checking the beauty of Nicaragua but the issue is there isn’t an embassy here in Dubai for me to get a visa, can someone help?
San Blas Islands and Bocas del Toro In Panamá they are the best place for relaxing and for enjoy the nature of the world.♥️
Couldn’t agree more, Yalena :)
Great article. I love traveling to these countries over the years living in Costa Rica. I know they just launched new flights to Panama from San Jose. I havent heard that much about Nicaragua since the pandemic. Is it safe to travel to and is tourism back on the rise? Thank you!
Dear Kristina, Thank you! We’d advise you to wait a little longer. There are currently hardly any regular commercial flights to and from Nicaragua. Also, Costa Rica and Honduras are not currently letting people in by land from Nicaragua.
As countries gradually open its borders, beaches will surely be flocked with both tourists and locals. I wouldn’t mind spending a day or two, or more, in these stunning tropical beaches. Though not totally unspoiled, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama are not your usual travel destinations and so it remains naturally beautiful. I really hope that these places are also properly monitored and protected.
Nicaragua sounds interesting, but is it also a safe country to visit?
Dear Kenny, most definitely! For traveling in these exceptional times, I’d advise you to consult your local authorities.
Friends have been to Costa Rica and raved about it. Also I’ve read about its wildlife. Nicaragua and Panama seem to be far less popular so could be really interesting to explore!
What’s keeping you, Grace ;) We recommend you pack your bags and find out yourself. We’d be happy to assist.
Still valid content in 2024!