Americas: Central, North and South

Connecting the North and South American Continents Central America is comprised of seven countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. It's bordered by Mexico to the north, Colombia to the southeast, the Caribbean Sea to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

From misty cloud forests, alive with the calls of monkeys and the shimmering plumage of resplendent quetzals, to the turquoise cenotes and ancient Maya ruins, every corner is a treasure trove for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Here, each sunrise brings a new opportunity to uncover a hidden waterfall, taste exotic tropical fruits, or lose yourself in the rhythm of a local festival. Meander through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife, stroll along sun-kissed beaches, or dive into the tropical underwater world of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s 2nd longest.

Beyond its natural beauty, it is a cultural mosaic—colonial towns will enchant the traveler with their cobblestone streets and vibrant markets, while indigenous communities share traditions, art, and food that have endured for centuries.

Whether it’s the yearning for the serenity found in mountain valleys and desert landscapes, the call of wildlife in Alaska, capturing the colorful chaos of Mexico City, or the chasing the northern lights across the Arctic sky, North America promises a journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

The North American continent is the 3rd largest in the world with the diversity one would expect from such a large land that extends from the icy north to the semi-tropical south. In between there are vast mountain ranges, extensive plains, deserts, temperate rainforests, woodlands, swampland and sandy beaches.

The region generally refers to Canada, Mexico and the United States (Greenland part of the Arctic Region and the Caribbean classified on its own). Culturally, North America reflects indigenous peoples, the expansion of colonists, immigrants from Europe, Africa, Asia, and all their descendants. Trace the footprints of indigenous peoples in sacred lands and ceremonial dances, marvel at the colonial architecture that whispers tales of the past, or immerse yourself in the pulsating rhythms of festivals, from mariachi in Mexico to jazz in New Orleans. Every region offers a unique perspective on the continent’s rich heritage, and a story waiting to be told.

The enchanting tapestry of South America beholds a continent of contrasts and wonders, where nature and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable experience for travelers. For those who long to experience nature at its rawest and cultures at their most vibrant, travelers will find journeys of discovery like no other throughout the large and diverse countries that comprise this vast land: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

There are the towering Andes, whose snow-capped peaks pierce the heavens, the lush Amazon rainforest, alive with the symphony of exotic wildlife, the driest place on the planet – the Atacama Desert, the towering glaciers found in Patagonia, while the Pantanal unveils the world’s most vibrant array of wildlife.

More than natural heritage, South America’s heartbeat lies in its rich cultural heritage. The famous Inca Trail will lead to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, while the rhythms of samba and tango will set the soul on fire, and the fiercely independent Gaucho will share their love of land and horses.

Whether you're seeking the mystical allure of Iguazu Falls, the enigmatic history of Easter Island, or the bold flavors of South American cuisine, the awe inspired by this land and people offer a new adventure at every turn within its untamed beauty and soulful spirit.