Central America in 12 Days: A Solo Backpacker’s Route

Itinerary Snapshot

Days 1–2: Antigua, Guatemala

• Walkable colonial city

• Coffee tours + volcano hikes

• Base: Selina or Maya Papaya Hostel

Days 3–4: Lake Atitlán

• Stay in San Pedro (budget) or San Marcos (chill)

• Kayaking + sunrise hikes

• Easy shuttle from Antigua

Days 5–6: Granada, Nicaragua

• Colorful, compact city

• Volcano boarding day trip

• Ferry to Ometepe

Days 7–8: Ometepe Island

• Hike Maderas or swim in Ojo de Agua

• Quiet jungle hostels (El Zopilote, Little Morgan’s)

Days 9–10: Monteverde, Costa Rica

• Ziplining + cloud forest hikes

• Cooler climate, great wildlife spotting

Days 11–12: Manuel Antonio

• Beach time + national park sloths

• Relaxed solo traveler scene

🎒 Tips for Smooth Travel

• Book shuttles in advance via hostel front desks

• Cross borders early in the day

• Travel insurance + offline Google Maps = peace of mind

💡Why This Route Works

• All stops are solo-safe & social

• Mix of nature, towns, and coast

• Easy to adapt—skip or stretch stops as needed

Ready to Go? Use our free planner to copy this route and customize your own Central America adventure. No spreadsheets, no chaos—just a smooth trip built around you.