Central America sits on the narrow land bridge between North and South America, where mountains, rainforests and coastlines shape distinct local cultures, cuisines and wildlife. It’s a compact region that’s easy to explore by short flights or scenic drives, and each country offers its own mix of indigenous heritage and colonial history.
There are 7 Countries in Central America, ranging from Belize to Panama. For each, you’ll find below a clear table organized with the columns: Flag (emoji),Capital,Population (latest est.), making it simple to compare capitals and recent population figures at a glance — you’ll find the full list below.
Which nations make up Central America?
Central America includes Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama — the seven countries commonly listed for the region, spanning Caribbean and Pacific coastlines and diverse climates.
How accurate are the “Population (latest est.)” figures?
Population figures labeled “latest est.” are drawn from recent national statistics and international estimates; they give a current snapshot but can differ by source and are updated periodically, so consult the cited source in the table below for the exact reference.
Countries in Central America
| Name | Flag (emoji) | Capital | Population (latest est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guatemala | 🇬🇹 | Guatemala City | 18,092,000 (2023) |
| Honduras | 🇭🇳 | Tegucigalpa | 10,594,000 (2023) |
| Belize | 🇧🇿 | Belmopan | 411,000 (2023) |
| El Salvador | 🇸🇻 | San Salvador | 6,365,000 (2023) |
| Nicaragua | 🇳🇮 | Managua | 7,046,000 (2023) |
| Costa Rica | 🇨🇷 | San José | 5,212,000 (2023) |
| Panama | 🇵🇦 | Panama City | 4,468,000 (2023) |
Images and Descriptions
Guatemala
The most populous country in Central America, Guatemala is the heart of the ancient Maya world. It is known for the spectacular Tikal ruins, stunning Lake Atitlán surrounded by volcanoes, and vibrant indigenous cultures in cities like Antigua.
Honduras
Honduras boasts a long Caribbean coastline, home to the beautiful Bay Islands which are a world-class diving destination. Inland, you can explore the impressive Maya ruins of Copán and vast mountainous regions covered in tropical rainforests, offering rich natural and historical experiences.
Belize
As the only English-speaking nation in the region, Belize offers a unique blend of Caribbean and Central American cultures. It is famous for its stunning coastline, the massive Belize Barrier Reef, and ancient Maya ruins hidden deep within lush jungles.
El Salvador
Known as the “Land of Volcanoes,” El Salvador is the smallest but most densely populated country in Central America. It features a beautiful Pacific coastline popular with surfers, a rich cultural heritage, and significant pre-Columbian sites like Joya de Cerén.
Nicaragua
The largest country in Central America, Nicaragua is called the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes.” It features the massive Lake Nicaragua, home to freshwater sharks, along with stunning colonial cities like Granada, active volcanoes, and a laid-back Caribbean coast.
Costa Rica
Famous for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle and having no standing army, Costa Rica is a world leader in ecotourism and conservation. It is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches on both its Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
Panama
Best known for the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Panama is a modern hub with a cosmopolitan capital. Beyond the canal, it offers lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and beautiful islands on both of its coasts.
