Central America 5 Day Beach Nature Escape Itinerary

Begin your day with a trip to Playa El Tunco, one of El Salvador's most famous beaches. Known for its black sand and excellent surf conditions, it's a great spot for both relaxation and adventure. Take a surf lesson or simply enjoy lounging by the water.

In the afternoon, explore the nearby Tamanique Waterfalls. A short hike through lush forest leads you to these beautiful cascades where you can swim in natural pools and enjoy the refreshing water. It's an excellent way to cool off after a morning at the beach.

Head back to Playa El Tunco for dinner at Café Sunzal, a highly-rated beachfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and stunning sunset views. After dinner, explore some of the local bars like La Guitarra for live music and cocktails.

Travel from La Libertad to Antigua Guatemala (approximately 4 hours). Start your exploration with a visit to Parque Central, where you can admire colonial architecture and vibrant street life. Enjoy breakfast at Café Condesa, known for its delicious pastries and coffee.

In the afternoon, take part in a guided tour of Antigua's historic sites including La Merced Church, Santa Catalina Arch, and Casa Santo Domingo Museum. These landmarks offer insights into Antigua's rich history and cultural heritage.

For dinner, dine at Hector's Bistro, renowned for its fusion cuisine that blends local ingredients with international flavors. Afterward, unwind with drinks at Sky Café Bar, which offers panoramic views of Antigua's skyline.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Antigua Guatemala to Lake Atitlán (approximately 2.5 hours). Upon arrival, take a boat tour around the lake, visiting some of the charming lakeside villages such as San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán. These villages are known for their vibrant local culture and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.

After exploring the villages, head to Reserva Natural Atitlán. This nature reserve offers hiking trails, butterfly gardens, and canopy tours. Enjoy a hike through the lush forest and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán from various lookout points.

Conclude your day with dinner at Jose Pinguino's, a highly-rated restaurant in Panajachel offering delicious Guatemalan cuisine. After dinner, relax at La Palapa, a cozy bar with live music and a great selection of cocktails.

Travel from Lake Atitlán to Tikal National Park (approximately 8 hours by car or 1 hour by flight from Guatemala City). Start your exploration of Tikal with a guided tour of its ancient Mayan ruins. The park is home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites in Central America, including Temple IV and the Great Plaza.

Continue your exploration of Tikal's ruins, visiting other notable structures such as Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar) and Temple II (Temple of the Masks). The park is also rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for howler monkeys, toucans, and other exotic animals.

For dinner, enjoy local cuisine at Jaguar Inn Restaurant, located within Tikal National Park. After dinner, unwind at The Lost World Bar, where you can enjoy drinks while reflecting on your incredible journey through Central America's natural and cultural wonders.