It is kind of like Costa Rica has a monopoly on the world’s prettiest waterfalls … but out of them all, Nauyaca is probably our favorite spot for a hike and a swim.

Okay, we’ve bragged long enough about the magic cities you can visit on the weekends, the hot springs hiding the mountains, turquoise waterfalls, and pretty beaches — it’s time that cenotes got the spotlight.

You may think the colorful cities found in this part of Mexico would be the highlight, but we cannot get enough of the hiking here. 

Beaches perfect for surfing and surrounded by lush jungles are only two things you’ll find in Jaco ... can you see why this is one of the prettiest weekend getaways for our volunteers?

"I love Nicaragua but I never want to leave Panama" is just one of the quotes we've heard from our volunteers who flew down for a vacation.  

This volcano is the country’s local celebrity, and one of the most famous things to see in all of Costa Rica.

Chinandega is right around the corner from one of our favorite beaches, just down the road from a volcano, and is known for doughnuts (if you needed just a little more convincing). 

Bernal is one of Mexico's "magic towns" and one you'll want to put in your weekend plans while you're spending your semester abroad exploring the area.

It’s the tropical vacation you’re looking for, complete with lots of beach time, island hopping, snorkeling, and chill vibes. 

The secret is out — Nicaragua really is the hidden gem of Central America.