Epic Central America

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? After landing at the airport, a transfer will be waiting to take you to our first accommodation. This evening, you'll meet the group and trip leader before heading out to experience the magic of Mexico City!

It's easy to feel spellbound by Mexico City, offering a colourful melting pot of architectural styles, delicious food spots and vibrant nightlife. We'll visit city icons like the Metropolitan Cathedral and Zocalo. Tonight we'll go for a traditional dinner and catch a show at the Plaza Garibaldi!

Our first stop of the day is a gorgeous town called Puebla, renowned for its rainbow-coloured alleyways and for inventing one of Mexico's most celebrated events: Cinco de Mayo! After lunch our journey continues to Oaxaca (pronounced "Wa-ha-ca"). With a culinary legacy like none other, nothing can prepare you for divine the food tastes here. Expect to find memelas, mole and empanadas all on the menu!

Today we'll discover the heart of Oaxaca and immerse ourselves in all the culture, history and scenery it has to offer. It's easy to lose yourself in the ambience, especially when there is an entire palette of cute cafes, authentic restaurants and fragrant street food waiting to be explored. Oaxaca is an experience for the senses, and the adventure only continues this evening as we delve into even more culinary staples!

Today we'll venture into the valleys and visit a local family to learn how they produce vibrant textiles by hand. Next up is a traditional mezcal distillery, where we'll see this spirit is made and have the chance to knock back a shot or two!

Get ready to explore the spectacular depths of the Sumidero Canyon, one of Mexico's most impressive natural landmarks. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys and crocodiles on our scenic boat cruise! Later today we'll drive through the mountains to reach San Cristobal de las Casas: a city renowned for its saffron-yellow architecture set against the backdrop of forested valleys. Soak up the local atmosphere on our walking tour and take an optional pottery class.

Today's all about experiencing Mexico's hidden gems and authentic culture, as we start the day visiting a local family in a breathtaking small town called Zinacantan. Our next stop is the village of San Juan Chamula. Back in San Cristobal de las Casas, enjoy free time to explore the local markets. Don't forget to stop at one of the cafes and try Chiapas famous coffee, or go Pox tasting - a traditional liquor from the Chiapas region. Finish the evening heading out for another lively group dinner!

The adventure is still only just beginning as over the next few days, we'll escape to an island paradise, tour one of the Seven Wonders of the World and experience the best of Mexico's beaches. It all starts with our included flight to Cancún! All you have to do today is kick back and relax, with bags packed and excitement high.

This morning we'll hop on a ferry and arrive at the shores of Isla Holbox. Imagine sunkissed palm trees, a powder-white coast against a sapphire ocean, rainbow hammocks and rustic beach bars... Isla Holbox is a slice of heaven. Relax at a beach bar, watch the sunset and dance under the stars to reggae beats!

Uncover Isla Holbox's hidden gems on our scenic boat trip around the island, with stops at secret sandy stretches and cenotes: which are limestone swimming holes buried underground and exclusive to Mexico. We'll keep our eyes peeled for the iconic pink flamingoes hanging out in the ocean, before enjoying a leisurely afternoon in paradise.

Next up, it's Playa Del Carmen! This lively resort city sits on the Caribbean coast and is renowned for its boutiques, bar-hopping and beach clubs. Enjoy some free time to explore the shops and street food vans, before meeting up with the group for a magical evening.

Today we'll tick the extraordinary Chichén Itza off our travel bucket list and explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World! Gaze at the iconic El Castillo pyramid, discover a labyrinth featuring a Thousand Columns and marvel at the Platform of the Skulls. Then finish the afternoon dipping into the crystal waters of a cenote pool.

Please note: you might see some new faces as we join our other programme 'Mexico Adventure' for the next few days.

In the morning, we'll hit the road to reach Tulum. Famed for its sugar-white beaches that stretch for miles and a dramatic complex of ruins by the cliffside, it's easy to see why Tulum is such an iconic place. When we're back in Playa Del Carmen, you'll have the chance to refresh before dinner. Tonight, let's get loco!

Today we'll journey further south through Mexico and arrive at Bacalar. Also known as the Lagoon of Seven Colours, this colourful location only becomes more breathtaking as the sun sets. On our boat trip, we'll glide across the turquoise waters and jump into the ocean, before we sit back and raise a toast. Viva Mexico!

It's time to say hello to our next destination on this epic journey through Central America... Belize! This tiny country is known for its vast marine life, tropical beaches and delicious seafood. We'll be escaping to a little island paradise called Caye Caulker. In the evening, we're going swimming with friendly stingrays!

Today we'll take a boat out to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, one of Belize's most incredible locations for snorkelling. Home to a rich variety of sea creatures, we'll swim past vivid coral reefs alongside manta rays, and maybe even spot the local sea cows - aka manatees!

Please note: Manatee sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed

Discover Caye Caulker at your own pace today. The island's famous Split is simply unmissable if you're in the mood to go swimming to the sound of reggae music. Curl up in a hammock with a good book, or maybe try paddleboarding in the ocean.

Before we depart Belize, we'll travel to a traditional Mayan village and prepare a feast. After sharing a delicious meal together, we'll cross the border into Guatemala and reach Flores: a famous gateway point for rainforest and ruins exploration. Guatemala is love at first sight, featuring evergreen jungles, archaeological treasures, towering volcanoes, stunning lakes and timelessly charming cities. It's the definition of wanderlust!

Buried deep inside Guatemala's northern rainforest is the lost civilization of Tikal. Today we'll explore this sprawling complex of Mayan ruins with our local guides. Stepping back in time, we'll uncover the mysteries and ancient pasts of sights like the Lost World Pyramid and Temple of the Jaguar. This is one for the history books!

While driving from north to south, we'll kick back and take in Guatemala's natural beauty. As part of the journey, we'll step into the vast Candelaria Caves and discover all its hidden features. We'll finish the day in Cobán, a traditional city surrounded by misty valleys.

This morning we'll escape into the jungle-clad mountains on 4x4s, with epic views along the way! We'll hike the final stretch and find a secret paradise filled with cascading turquoise pools. Dip into the waters and unwind, before floating along the river in rubber tubes. We'll also visit a Mayan home and enjoy a sensational lunch here.

As we journey further south through the highlands, we'll visit a local town called Chichicastenango. Home to indigenous Mayan traditions, we'll immerse ourselves in the local atmosphere. Our next place of stay is Panajachel, situated on the shores of Lake Atitlán. Between the vast waters and the ring of volcanoes, it's a view that'll absolutely take your breath away.

This morning we'll glide across the waters of Lake Atitlán, soaking in the gorgeous scenery before arriving at San Marcos for a swim. Afterwards, we'll travel to San Juan for a local homestay experience. Over dinner, we'll share our cultures and learn a few different phrases in the local language.

It's an early start as we hike under the moonlight, making our way to the summit of the Mayan Face Mountain. If there's one thing more beautiful than this vista overlooking the lake and the valleys, it's experiencing it at sunrise. Enjoy a cosy cup of hot cocoa with the sublime views before digging into breakfast back at our homestay and leaving for Antigua.

Today's your opportunity to explore the enchanting city of Antigua completely at your own pace. You could start the day at a cafe enjoying huevos rancheros and Guatemalan coffee for breakfast. Dive into Antigua's scenic lookout points, or simply explore the stunning alleyways and see where the day takes you!

We have the adventure of a lifetime planned, as we get ready to trek the one and only Acatenango Volcano. Our basecamp for the night offers the most spectacular views imaginable of the iconic Fuego Volcano. When the sunset fades into darkness, we'll be able to see lava bursts from the Fuego Volcano's crater against the stars!

*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 you can choose to take part in a chocolate making experience instead. More information is available at the end of the itinerary.

Rise early this morning for a steep climb to the summit, promising outstanding views and feeling as if you're on top of the world! After making our way down the mountain, enjoy some free time to chill in Antigua before celebrating with dinner and drinks!

If you're taking the 28-day trip, then your adventure ends here! You're welcome to depart at any time. For those doing the 40-day trip, we'll take an included flight to San José: the capital of Costa Rica. This evening, we'll head out for a group dinner at a local restaurant.

Today's walking tour in San José will reveal the city's scenic architecture and green spaces hidden in every corner. On our way to La Fortuna, we'll also make a stop to see colourfully decorated ox carts.

We're heading deep into the rainforest for the best views of Arenal Volcano and the lava fields. Once the sun sets, we'll return to the jungle for our epic night safari walk. Led by a guide who knows all the prime wildlife viewing spots, we'll keep our eyes peeled for monkeys, reptiles, rare frogs and more!

La Fortuna is one of the most iconic highlights of Costa Rica, and today we'll experience its local culture and hidden gems. We'll meet a family who have lived here for generations and will show us around their idyllic countryside farm. We'll witness how a traditional Casado lunch is prepared with freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, as well as fragrant spices and pickled produce. Then this afternoon, we'll visit a local hot spring, sink into the steamy waters and relax...

After departing La Fortuna, our first stop of the day is a local Maleku house to gain insight into their indigenous culture. We'll then travel to the breathtaking Río Celeste National Park, home to some of Costa Rica's most famous waterfalls. Later today, we'll reach a less discovered area called Rincon de la Vieja: perfect for an escape into nature.

Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a world of its own, filled with rainforest trails where tropical wildlife can be found thriving. Take a morning hike and enjoy a free afternoon, which you could use to optionally try ziplining!

Today we'll arrive in Samara, a coastal town spoiled for choice with beaches. This afternoon is free for you to explore. Beach volleyball, anyone?

Learn to surf like a pro this morning before going beach-hopping! Expect sunkissed sandy stretches, breezy palm trees and ocean swells as we discover the Guanacaste Province's best-kept secret bays.

Today's all about embracing the "pura vida" lifestyle and exploring Samara however you like. Now's your chance to have another beach day, take a surfing class, try sea kayaking with snorkelling or unwind with some yoga.

Heading further south, we'll stop at Crocodile Bridge and observe these ancient creatures in their natural habitat before arriving in the surfer town of Esterillos this afternoon. From hitting the waves to shopping or simply enjoying the vast beaches (which we often have all to ourselves!), Esterillos is unforgettable.

It's time for Costa Rica's most legendary national park, Manuel Antonio! Featuring rainforest valleys and golden beaches, it's hardly a surprise that this park attracts all kinds of wildlife - including sloths! Freely explore the jungle, unwind on the sandy stretches or go swimming; today is an adventure to remember!

Our journey through Central America is almost over, so let's make today count! Before arriving 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.

This once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Central America ends here! Travellers are welcome to depart at any time; your trip leader will be able to assist with return airport transfers or onward travel plans.

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 26, you can attend a traditional chocolate-making class in Antigua! Day 27 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 don't have much time, check out our shorter 18 day Best of Central America trip