Things to do in Central America

The promenade of Linda Beach marks the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the freshwater lagoon on which Cancun is built, Laguna Nichupte. This beach is the departure point for many charter boat and ferry operations and is the site of Cancun’s iconic rotating scenic tower.

Part theme park, part wildlife sanctuary and part archaeological site, Xcaret Park has dozens of attractions and activities to keep the whole family occupied. So many, in fact, that it’s almost impossible to see everything with just one visit.

The Zocalo is the epicenter of Mexico’s capital city. The massive square can hold more than 100,000 people, making it one of the largest of its kind in the world. Officially named Plaza de la Constitucion, the Zocalo was once the heart of Tenochtitlan, an ancient Aztec city. You can see the square’s history in the wide variety of architecture, which ranges from pre-Hispanic ruins to palatial structures and modern buildings. Make sure to step into the Zocalo Metro Station, where you can see models of how the square has changed over time.

More than 12 million people visit the Basilica de Santa Maria each year. They come to see the site at which the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to a poor Indian, and to see the cloak with her image that is displayed there.

Paseo de la Reforma is likely to be one of your daily reference points as you travel around Mexico City. See many historic buildings and monuments along the lengthy stretch of this wide and beautiful tree-lined avenue. Notice the important modern buildings that have been constructed over time as Mexico and Mexico City have grown internationally as important financial markets.

Visit the Lake Atitlán area to explore indigenous villages, trek through volcanic highlands and dive, kayak or swim in Central America’s deepest lake.