All North American Countries to Travel
– A Complete Guide for Explorers
North America is one of the most diverse travel regions of the world, offering a magnificent combination of modern cities, ancient civilizations, tropical coastlines, snow-covered mountains, volcanic landscapes, world-renowned national parks, and vibrant cultural traditions.
From the Arctic tundra of Canada and Greenland to the Caribbean’s turquoise islands and the archaeological treasures of Mexico and Central America—North America presents an unmatched range of experiences for every traveler.
This comprehensive guide provides a detailed introduction to every recognized country across North America, highlighting important attractions, major distances between key destinations, how to reach these regions, staying options, and the best time to visit.
This article has been specially crafted in a research-based and descriptive format to support travelers, bloggers, and tour planners across the world.
Overview of North America
North America consists of **23 sovereign countries** and numerous dependent territories. It stretches from the Arctic Circle in the north to the lush tropical rainforests of Central America and the Caribbean in the south. The region is bound by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.
Total Countries: 23
Sub-regions: Northern America, Central America, and the Caribbean
Major Travel Themes: Adventure, cultural heritage, wildlife, beaches, historical monuments, luxury resorts, cruises, road trips, and eco-tourism.
Complete List of All North American Countries
The countries of North America can be divided into three major sub-regions for easier travel planning:
- Northern America – Canada, United States, Greenland (territory of Denmark)
- Central America – Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama
- Caribbean – 13 independent island nations
Below is a country-wise, descriptive guide covering travel highlights, distances, connectivity, staying options, and ideal visiting seasons.
Northern America
1. Canada
Canada is the world’s second-largest country, celebrated for its pristine wilderness, multicultural cities, and dramatic landscapes.
From the Rocky Mountains to Niagara Falls, the country is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.
Important Places to Visit
- Toronto – CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum
- Vancouver – Stanley Park, Granville Island
- Banff & Jasper – Canadian Rockies
- Montreal – Old Port, Notre-Dame Basilica
- Niagara Falls – One of the world’s most famous waterfalls
Major Distances
- Toronto → Montreal: approx. 540 km
- Vancouver → Banff: approx. 850 km
- Toronto → Niagara Falls: approx. 130 km
How to Reach
Major international airports: Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, Montreal-Trudeau.
Staying Options
Luxury hotels, boutique lodges, mountain resorts, eco-cabins, lakeside lodges.
Best Time to Visit
May to October for pleasant weather; December to March for winter sports.
2. United States of America
The USA is a vast and culturally rich nation with famous icons such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Times Square, and Silicon Valley.
It is one of the world’s most visited countries due to its blend of modernity and natural beauty.
Important Places to See
- New York City – Statue of Liberty, Times Square
- Washington D.C. – Capitol Building, Smithsonian Museums
- California – Los Angeles, San Francisco, Yosemite
- Florida – Miami, Orlando Theme Parks
- Nevada – Las Vegas
- Arizona – Grand Canyon
Major Distances
- New York → Washington D.C.: approx. 360 km
- Los Angeles → San Francisco: approx. 615 km
- Las Vegas → Grand Canyon: approx. 450 km
How to Reach
Key international airports: JFK, LAX, Chicago O’Hare, Miami, Dallas.
Staying Options
Business hotels, luxury resorts, theme-based hotels, budget motels, mountain lodges.
Best Time to Visit
March to June and September to November for pleasant weather conditions.
3. Greenland (Autonomous Territory of Denmark)
Greenland is famous for its Arctic beauty, glaciers, ice fjords, and the Northern Lights.
It is one of the few untouched regions on Earth.
Important Places
- Nuuk – Cultural attractions
- Ilulissat – Icefjord (UNESCO Site)
- Kangerlussuaq – Northern Lights sighting
How to Reach
Flights available via Denmark or Iceland.
Best Time
June to September for trekking and fjord tours; winter for aurora sightings.
Central America
Central America connects North America and South America through a narrow land bridge. It is blessed with rainforests, beaches, volcanoes, and Mayan heritage sites.
4. Mexico
Mexico is a treasure trove of ancient civilizations, colonial towns, world-class beaches, and exquisite cuisine.
Its favorable climate and cultural richness attract millions of visitors every year.
Important Places
- Mexico City – Historic Centre, Teotihuacan
- Cancún & Riviera Maya – Beaches & resorts
- Guadalajara – Cultural capital
- Chichén Itzá – One of the New Seven Wonders
Major Distances
- Mexico City → Puebla: approx. 135 km
- Cancún → Chichén Itzá: approx. 200 km
How to Reach
Major airports: Mexico City, Cancún, Guadalajara.
Staying Options
All-inclusive resorts, boutique haciendas, budget hotels, eco-friendly lodges.
Best Time
November to April (dry season).
5. Belize
Belize is known for its coral reefs, blue holes, wildlife sanctuaries, and Caribbean culture.
Important Places
- Great Blue Hole
- Belize Barrier Reef
- Ambergris Caye
- Xunantunich Mayan temple
How to Reach
Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport connects Belize with major cities in the USA.
Best Time
January to May.
6. Guatemala
A cultural gem known for Mayan temples, volcanoes, and colorful markets.
Important Places
- Tikal National Park
- Antigua Guatemala
- Lake Atitlán
- Pacaya Volcano
Best Time
November to April.
7. Honduras
Known for its Caribbean islands, coral reefs, and archaeological sites.
- Roatán Island
- Copán Ruins
- La Tigra National Park
8. El Salvador
The smallest country in Central America, known for volcanoes and surf beaches.
9. Nicaragua
Famous for volcanic landscapes, colonial cities, and lake islands.
10. Costa Rica
A global leader in eco-tourism, known for rainforests, volcanoes, and biodiversity.
11. Panama
Home to the world-famous Panama Canal and modern cosmopolitan cities.
Caribbean Island Nations
The Caribbean is a mosaic of 13 beautiful island countries known for beaches, reggae, rum, carnivals, water sports, and cultural vibrancy.
List of Caribbean Countries
- Antigua and Barbuda
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Cuba
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Grenada
- Haiti
- Jamaica
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
Each of these islands offers a unique blend of colonial heritage, stunning coastlines, tropical forests, and underwater wonders perfect for snorkeling, diving, and luxury beach holidays.
How to Travel Across North America
1. By Air
Major international hubs such as New York, Toronto, Mexico City, Miami, and Panama connect the region extensively.
Air travel is the fastest mode, especially between distant countries.
2. By Road
The Pan-American Highway connects Alaska to Central America, making it one of the longest road networks globally.
Road travel is practical within countries such as the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
3. By Cruise
Cruises are extremely popular for visiting the Caribbean islands, Alaskan fjords, and coastal Mexico.
4. By Ferry
Inter-island travel within the Caribbean is supported by local ferries and regional airlines.
Best Time to Visit North America
Different regions of North America have varying climatic zones. The ideal visiting periods are:
- Northern America (USA, Canada, Greenland): May to October
- Central America: November to April (dry season)
- Caribbean: December to April (clear skies & pleasant weather)
Conclusion
North America is a magnificent continent that offers limitless opportunities for tourism—ranging from world-famous landmarks and cultural marvels to relaxing beaches and spectacular natural landscapes.
Whether you wish to experience the Arctic wilderness of Greenland, the metropolitan brilliance of the USA, the ancient temples of Mexico, the pristine jungles of Central America, or the tropical charm of the Caribbean—North America welcomes every traveler with unforgettable experiences.
This extensive guide provides a country-wise overview to help you plan itineraries, compare travel options, and explore the diverse cultures spread across this extraordinary continent.