Transportation in Central America – A Comprehensive Guide
Spanning seven countries and countless beaches, jungles, volcanoes, and lost cities, Central America is surprisingly compact. The Pan-American Highway runs for nearly 2000km (1240 miles) along this chain of Spanish-speaking countries, but the isthmus is no wider than 560km (350 miles) across at its widest point.
With enough time and patience, all seven countries can be traversed by bus, daisy-chaining from Guatemala and Belize through Honduras and El Salvador to Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. If time is limited, pairing up countries is a great option—consider Mayan pyramid-hopping in Guatemala combined with scuba-diving in Belize, or toucan-spotting in Costa Rica paired with cruises along Panama’s famous canal.
The Easiest and Cheapest Way to Explore Central America is by Bus
Central America has a bus for every budget and every kind of traveler. The backbone of bus travel in the region is the ‘chicken bus’—repurposed and gaudily painted North American school buses that race along highways, making frequent stops in every city, town, and hamlet. Buses cover fixed routes with the destination displayed on the front windscreen and are as much a cultural experience as a way to get from point A to B.
Alternative Bus Options
Minivans follow similar routes to chicken buses and leave when full for a slightly higher fare. Tourist-oriented shuttle buses link major hubs, like those provided in Costa Rica. Hence, with its famous green credentials, Costa Rica is trialing electric buses, aiming for all-electric services by 2030.
Taxis in Central America
Taxis are cheap and plentiful across Central America. However, tourists may be charged higher rates, so it’s best to use a radio taxi or official taxi instead of flagging one down. If the taxi has a meter, ensure it’s turned on, or take a different cab. Carry small bills for payments and secure all your belongings before handing over any money.
Car Rental for Exploring
Hiring a car can be expensive in Central America but provides a fantastic way to explore the isthmus at your own pace. Driving presents challenges, from traffic in cities to rural roads inhabited by livestock and wildlife. Major rental companies operate at international airports and capital cities, and be sure to understand local road regulations.
Exploring by Boat
Central America boasts two coastlines along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, as well as many stunning lakes. Traveling by boat can be the best—and sometimes the only—way to get between certain locations. In Nicaragua, boats connect the mainland with picturesque islands, while in Costa Rica, a ferry service operates within the region’s beautiful coastal areas.
Air Travel in Central America
If convenience is your priority, flying can significantly reduce travel time. For instance, the flight from Guatemala City to Flores takes only an hour, compared to an eight-hour bus trip. Various airlines, including Copa Airlines and Avianca, dominate the regional airspace, providing efficient connections across Central America.
Urban Transport in Major Cities
While trains may be scarce, Panama City has the region’s first metro system, linking key areas of the city. Public transport options vary by country, with local buses, mototaxis, and taxis available for efficient urban travel.
Traveling on a ‘Chicken Bus’
Traveling on a chicken bus is an experience unlike any other. It offers a unique opportunity to interact with local passengers and engage with the culture of Central America directly. While the journey can be crowded and noisy, it is certainly never dull.
Accessibility in Central America
Though Central America has room for improvement regarding accessibility, Costa Rica stands out as a leader in accessible travel. Travelers with mobility issues might find it easier to hire vehicles or use taxis, as public transport options can be limited in accessibility.
