An elevated flora and fauna experience is on the menu in Costa Rica with a three-kilometre-long treetop walkway taking visitors through the verdant cloud forest at Monteverde national park, while more adventurous types can zipline over the canopy. Six spectacular waterfalls stream gallon upon gallon of crystal-clear water onto the rainforest below, inviting visitors in for a welcomingly refreshing dip.

The action heats up in Nicaragua where the active Masaya volcano spews a must-be-seen-to-be-believed red-hot lava lake, while Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán is ringed by a trio of (less active) volcanoes, with legend recounting a sunken city filled with treasure. Reef sharks are the underwater prize when diving Belize’s magnificent atolls.

A chocolate lover’s idea of heaven, cocoa bean farm tours are delicious introduction to the region and a jaunt to trendy Panama City’s Casco Viejo heritage district delivers a tasting experience spanning local seafood, Caribbean favourites and upscale international flavours. Or, challenge your private chef to recreate the classic rice and beans staple with added Michelin star flair.