How to plan a 2-month Central America backpacking route

Start in Guatemala and move south toward Panama, using a mix of chicken buses and tourist shuttles to cover ground. Spend at least 1 week in each of the 6 main countries to maintain a steady pace without burning out.

1. Set your direction. Traveling North to South (Guatemala to Panama) is standard. Start with the cultural highlights of Guatemala and finish with the modern vibes and islands of Panama.
2. Prioritize transport. Use 'chicken buses' for short, cheap local trips (under 3 hours). Book 'tourist shuttles' via hostels for long border crossings (e.g., Leon, Nicaragua to La Fortuna, Costa Rica) to save 5+ hours of transfer headaches.
3. Map your 60-day split. Allocate 12 days to Guatemala, 8 to El Salvador, 10 to Nicaragua, 12 to Costa Rica, 8 to Honduras (Bay Islands), and 10 to Panama. This allows for buffer days when travel plans inevitably shift.
4. Manage your borders. Keep at least $50 USD in crisp, unmarked bills in your daypack for border crossing fees. Always verify current visa entry requirements on government websites before leaving your previous country.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Yes, if you stick to the well-trodden 'gringo trail' and avoid traveling between cities at night.

Do I need to book hostels in advance?

In high season (Dec-Feb), book 1 week out. During the rest of the year, 24-48 hours notice is sufficient.