Best of Central America

Your Central America adventure is about to begin! After landing in Cancún, we'll pick you up and transfer you to the hotel in Playa del Carmen. This evening, meet your group and trip leader before grabbing dinner together.

Get ready because we're about to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá! This complex of ancient Mayan ruins was once a major capital in the Americas pre-Columbus, and today we'll explore the variety of breathtaking sights. Then later this afternoon, we'll take a dip inside a cenote pool: an underwater cave filled with turquoise water. This natural phenomenon is unique to Mexico, so dive in!

Please note: you might see some new faces as we join our other programmes, 'Mexico Adventure' and 'Epic Central America' for the next few days.

Famed for its towering palm trees, stunning stretches of white sand and Mayan ruins nestled against the coast, it's easy to see why Tulum is such an iconic place. Today's your chance to freely explore Tulum and choose your activities. When we're back in Playa del Carmen, there's plenty of time to go for tacos and tequila with friends!

Today we'll head further south in Mexico to Bacalar: also known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colours". This small town sits at the shores of one of the most vibrant pools of water you'll ever see. From shades of turquoise to violet, it only becomes more beautiful with the sunset. We'll sail around Bacalar, swim in the ocean and kick back with a few drinks.

After an unforgettable taster of Mexico, it's time to explore our next destination... Belize! This tiny country with its Caribbean coastline and the world's second largest coral reef system is a haven for snorkelling. Over the next few days, we'll find island paradise in Caye Caulker. After some free time this afternoon, we'll meet up for the sunset on the opposite side of the island. Pack a swimsuit, because we'll be swimming among the local, friendly stingrays!

Discover a whole new world under the sea, filled with tropical fish, colourful coral reefs and glistening, sunkissed waters. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is where we'll experience some of the best snorkelling that Belize has to offer. Each stop offers a different type of magic, and before we finish, we'll have the chance to spot gentle manatees (referred to locally as "sea cows"!) floating underwater.

Please note: Manatee sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed

Explore Caye Caulker entirely at your own pace today. If there's nothing you want more than to swim in the sea, listen to reggae music and enjoy a rum punch, then checking out the famous Split is an absolute must. You could always go ocean paddle boarding as an optional extra, or even sign up for another day of underwater adventures!

Before saying goodbye to Belize, we'll enjoy lunch in a Mayan village. Experience the warm hospitality as we learn how to cook a traditional feast, gaining a unique insight into Mayan culture and the people's thriving heritage. Later this afternoon, we'll cross the border into our third Central American destination and arrive at Flores: a colourful gateway to Mayan wonders. Let Guatemala work its magic on you, as this gorgeous country is filled with timeless ruins, spellbinding cities, evergreen rainforests, great pools of lakes and, of course, the most epic volcanoes!

Hidden in the heart of Guatemala's northern rainforest is Tikal: the former capital of a powerful ancient kingdom. Step back in time while exploring this extraordinary collection of ruins, from the towering Lost World Pyramid to the Temple of the Jaguar. Leading the way are our expert local guides, uncovering the mysteries of Tikal and filling us in on its incredible history.

As we drive from one corner of Guatemala to the next, today is filled with idyllic countryside scenery. Step into the Candelaria Caves for an experience that's truly out of the ordinary. We'll explore this vast cave network, taking in its extraordinary beauty and learn about its significance in Mayan culture. Then we'll head further south and arrive at the highlands town of Cobán for the evening.

Guatemala's mountainous terrain is just waiting to be explored, so today we'll hop into 4x4s and uncover the highlands' greatest hidden gems. We'll hike the final stretch; at the end of the trail, anticipate a series of cascading turquoise pools flowing through the forest. Unwind in the refreshing waters and float along the river in the rubber tube rings. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a traditional lunch at a local Mayan home!

Kick back and relax as we drive further south through Guatemala, stopping at the town of Chichicastenango for a slice of culture. Home to Indigenous Mayan traditions, we'll immerse ourselves in the local ambience and, if we're lucky, experience one of Central America's most colourful markets. Later today we'll arrive in the town of Panajachel, offering the most brilliant view of twin volcanoes from Lake Atitlán.

This morning we'll glide along the waters of Lake Atitlán and head to San Marcos for a swim. After returning to Panajachel, our journey continues to San Juan where we'll split into smaller groups and experience an authentic homestay with a local Mayan family. Our hosts are exceptionally welcoming, and over dinner, we'll learn some Mayan phrases alongside Spanish. It's not every day that you experience another culture like this!

It's a very early rise, as we start the morning hiking under the moonlight to reach the summit of Mayan Face Mountain. When the sky transforms at sunrise, so does the beauty of the view of Lake Atitlán and the towering valleys that surround it. Enjoy the moment with a delicious cup of hot cocoa in hand, before filling up on breakfast back at our homestay. Then it's time to visit Antigua, one of the most enchanting cities in Central America, let alone Guatemala!

From the bright pastel architecture to the cobblestone streets and ring of volcanoes in the narrow distance, Antigua is effortlessly charming. Today's your chance to explore Antigua's treasure trove of historic arches, towering ruins, local markets, colourful markets and cosy cafes. Have your cameras ready, because Antigua is one of the most photogenic cities you'll ever see!

Our next activity is the definition of the adventure of a lifetime, as today we'll be hiking Acatenango Volcano. We'll trek through tropical cloud forests and cross over rocky terrain, reaching unbelievable heights. Leading the way on this journey which takes roughly seven hours is an expert local guide. Our base camp for the night sits above the clouds, so settle in for a majestic sunset. The view only gets more incredible from there; when the sky darkens and the stars shine, we'll see the active Fuego Volcano in all its glory, with lava bursting from the crater!

*The Acatenango Volcano hike requires a reasonable level of fitness, as the ascent takes up to seven hours. If travellers would like to miss out on the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike, they can choose to take part in a chocolate making experience instead. More information is available at the end of the itinerary.

Start the day early this morning with a steep climb to the summit. With 360 views of Fuego Volcano and the Antigua Valley, you'll feel on top of the world! After descending the mountain, enjoy some chill time in Antigua ahead of an unforgettable evening of dinner and drinks as a group.

For travellers on the 30-day trip, we'll take an included flight to San José in Costa Rica: our fourth destination in Central America! Later this evening, we'll grab dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning we'll get to know San José better with a local guide, checking out the historic architecture, scenic city parks and independent artisan shops. On our journey to La Fortuna we'll check out some colourfully decorated ox carts, which are integral to countryside life in Costa Rica!

Today we're heading deep into La Fortuna's rainforest for an unforgettable adventure... hanging bridges! There is no better way to immerse yourself in the jungle than by crossing through the treetops, with so much tropical wildlife waiting to be discovered. Later, we'll venture back into the jungle after dark on a night safari walk, led by an expert local guide.

This morning we'll experience the less-discovered side of La Fortuna and visit a local family who have lived here for generations. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring fresh and organic ingredients, topped off with some home-grown coffee. Then later today we'll soak in some natural hot pools and enjoy the stunning nature which surrounds us.

This morning we'll gain greater insight into the Maleku culture that is Indigenous to Costa Rica and visit a local home. Then we're travelling deep into the jungle to reach Río Celeste, chasing bright blue waterfalls surrounded by lush jungle; it's a view that'll take your breath away! Our next place of stay is inside Rincon De La Vieja: a secluded location where travellers can immerse themselves in nature.

Today we'll enter a biodiverse national park home to thriving wildlife, bursts of jungle and rare dry forests. While trekking along the trails, get ready to see all kinds of natural wonders - from ancient mud pits to steamy volcanic vents. This afternoon is all yours to continue exploring the park, go ziplining through the treetops as an optional extra or take things slow by the hotel pool, listening to the jungle ambience.

Today, we'll reach a charming coastal village called Samara and freely explore the pristine sandy beaches.

Learn to surf like a pro this morning, then embrace paradise as we explore all the heavenly beaches that the Guanacaste province has to offer, each having its own individual charm. With views like these, it's never been easier to embrace Costa Rica's "pura vida" spirit!

Choose your adventure today in Samara, whether you're craving another beach day, in the mood for zen yoga or want to try some action-packed optional activities - like a surfing lesson or sea kayaking with snorkelling!

Enjoy one final morning unwinding on Samara's heavenly stretches on sand, before we head south for Esterillos after lunch. Along the way, we'll stop at Costa Rica's famous Crocodile Bridge, where you can marvel at these gigantic creatures in the river below.

Today we'll escape to Manuel Antonio National Park, nestled along Costa Rica's tropical coastline. Famed for its glistening beaches and jungle valleys, this park is a paradise for wildlife - including sloths and monkeys! Experience everything this park has to offer for a day you'll never forget.

Before we arrive in San José, we will stop off for a Cacao making class, where we will discover how chocolate is created from bean to bar. Then get ready for some farewell drinks tonight.

What a journey it's been! Your epic adventure in Central America ends here, and travellers are welcome to depart at any time. For assistance in arranging return airport transfers or onward travel, your trip leader will be happy to help.

While the Acatenango Volcano overnight hike is included in the trip price, an alternative will be available to customers at no extra cost. Instead of this trek on day 16, you can attend a traditional chocolate-making class in Antigua! Day 17 will be a free day before meeting up with the group in the evening.

Please let us know in advance when you are booked onto this trip if this is something you would be interested in. For more information, you can download our trip notes and reach out to one of our travel advisors.

If you are looking to spend longer in Central America and see more of the region check out our 40 day Epic Central America trip