Our top tropical destinations
Is a sun-soaked, palm tree-filled getaway on your list? Here are our ten favorite tropical hotspots, and the best part is you can visit them all on tour.
No matter when you want to travel, there's nothing quite like a tropical getaway. Palm trees swaying in the breeze, shockingly blue water, pristine beaches, and sun-soaked days are just a few of the things that have us dreaming of a trip to the tropics. You too? Here are ten of our favorite tropical vacation destinations you can visit on tour.
Costa Rica
Out of all the things we love about Costa Rica (its cloud forests, scenery, and culture to name a few) the wildlife is what really sets this top tropical destination apart. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, monkeys, and more than 270 bird species on Costa Rica: Rainforests, Volcanoes & Wildlife.
Panama
While we can confirm that Panama has both beaches and palm trees, the country’s real draw is the world-famous Panama Canal. Get a close up look at boats making their way through the locks on Highlights of Central America: Costa Rica & Panama.
Belize
If you’re looking to spend time on the beach (and in the water for that matter), then this is the tropical vacation destination for you! Head to Ambergris Caye to relax on the sand or grab a snorkel to get a peek at life below the waves on A Week in Belize: Ruins, Reefs & Rainforests.
The Galápagos
Here’s another one that tops the list for wildlife enthusiasts. This handful of islands off the coast of Ecuador is home to a diversity of species that’s unmatched anywhere else on the planet. Keep an eye out for giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies on Ecuador: The Amazon Rainforest & Galápagos Islands Cruise.
The Amazon
This region of South America is best know for its tropical rainforest. And with good reason—it’s the largest of its kind in the world. Take it all in on Ecuador: The Amazon Rainforest & Galápagos Islands Cruise.
Colombia
Imagine this: picture-perfect beaches, hammocks waiting to be lounged in, and drinks with those little umbrellas in them. If you’re looking for the quintessential island experience in one of the best tropical destinations, Colombia's Isla Barú is where you want to be. Visit for the day on the extension of Highlights of Central America: Costa Rica & Panama.
Guatemala
Any history buffs out there? Because this small Central American country is packed with ancient Mayan relics. See the ruins of temples, plazas, and pyramids on the extension for A Week in Belize: Ruins, Reefs & Rainforests.
Brazil
When it comes to tropical destinations, Brazil has the best of both sun and scenery. Start at the beaches of Rio de Janeiro before making your way to Iguazú falls for some spectacular views on Rio, Iguazú Falls & Buenos Aires.
Fiji
It may be home to some of the bluest water in the South Pacific, but this island nation also charms with its year-round warm weather, friendly locals, and longstanding traditions. Pay a visit to this tropical vacation destination on the extensions for any of our Australia and New Zealand tours.
The Yucatán Peninsula
Chichén Itzá and Tulum (for the Mayan ruins). Playa del Carmen (for the beaches). Dos Ojos Cenote (crystal-clear cave pools, need we say more?). These are a few of our favorite things about Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Check it all of your list on the extension for Highlights of Mexico: Oaxaca to Mexico City.
Which best tropical destination is your favorite? Let us know on our Facebook page!
It all began on a school trip to London in 7th grade. Since that first jaunt across the pond, Laura has been hooked on all things travel (and British for that matter). When she's not at work using her words to help people find their own adventures, she can be found running 5ks, refining her cribbage game, or rewatching The Office for the 100th time.
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