Central America Tours
- Ometepe Island (Nicaragua)
- Bay Islands (Honduras)
- Antigua (Guatemala)
- Bocas del Toro (Panama)
- Lake Atitlan/Panajachel (Guatemala)
- Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave (Belize)
- Havana (Cuba)
- Tikal (Guatemala)
- Palenque (Mexico)
- Playa Hermosa (Costa Rica)
Diversity. The word sums up Central America travel. So geographically close to the frenzy of North America, yet a million miles away in culture and lifestyle, this small area changes colours as quickly as a chameleon. Each country is so different that a simple border crossing will bring a whole new mix of surprises and cultural experiences. If beach life and water activities are your thing then a Central America tour is perfect for you. Snorkeling, sailing, SCUBA diving, surfing, parasailing, swimming and windsurfing are all possible in virtually any Central American country. For history and culture buffs the archaeological ruins of Tikal in Guatemala or Copan in Honduras are fascinating reminders of the ancient Mayan civilization. Whether you have just a week or a full month to travel, Central America has something for you.
Cuba Colonial (CCC)
The melody of horns floating through the air, classic cars parked in colonial squares and revolutionary statues—get over the resort wall and discover the real Cuba! Travel east to Santiago de Cuba and Baracoa and encounter the birthplace of Cuban rhythms and revolutionary fervour. Soak in Spanish heritage while exploring churches, forts and cobblestone streets. Overnight in homestays for an immersive Cuban experience few travellers get to experience. Don't just walk down the road less travelled—dance down it. Viva la Revolución!
Highlights: Dancing salsa with the locals, walking in Che Guevara's footsteps, bonding with your host family in a homestay, exploring breathtaking beaches.
Mayan Encounter (CGME)
Trek though jungles to Mayan ruins and relax on white sand beaches. Get an authentic taste of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala with an adventure that combines the mystery of the ancient ruins with the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. Shop for treasures along colonial Antigua's cobblestone streets and get to know the locals from communities where life sometimes moves at a reggae pace. Explore the lost ruins of Tikal, snorkel with stingrays and finish in the colourful beach town of Playa del Carmen. With accommodation and transport arranged by a CEO, this trip offers great value and is the perfect way to discover this region’s unique vibe.
Highlights: Listening to the howler monkeys from the top of Temple IV at Tikal, Revelling in Caye Caulker sunsets, Swaying to reggae beats wafting through the Belizean air, Blissing out on world-class Mayan Riviera beaches.
Mayan Sun—Southbound (CMCA)
Find your paradise somewhere between the blazing Yucatán sun and the cool Guatemalan highlands on this 16-day odyssey. Wander Antigua’s cobblestone streets and its local markets before experiencing the diverse beauty of Lake Atitlán and its indigenous villages. Geared to the adventurer wanting to capture some of Central America's finest highlights, this trip will ensure that you really pack some punch into those postcards home.
Highlights: Relaxing on white sand beaches, luxuriating in Caye Caulker sunsets and reggae music, experiencing a local homestay, exploring gorgeous colonial Antigua and its colourful markets.
Costa Rica Adventure (CRA)
If you’re looking for a taste of Costa Rica’s world-class highlights but want to keep things spicy with a sampling of hidden treasures, this action-packed adventure tops the menu. In spite of its small size, Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world—explore its volcanoes, wildlife, rainforests and beaches. This adventure offers a great balance of guided excursions and free time. Optional activities abound—choose to get your adrenaline pumping or take it easy with a stroll through a butterfly garden.
Highlights: Spotting wildlife while cruising through canals, searching for the elusive quetzal bird, hiking through jungles, chilling on the gorgeous Pacific coast, Searching for dolphins on a sunset sail or going whitewater rafting.
Costa Rica Explorer (CRE)
Costa Rica has as many microclimates as it does opportunities for active adventures—and this 2-week journey will bring you the best of both. There's a visit to a cloud forest, but for a bigger jolt, try rappelling down waterfalls or flying across ziplines above the treetops. For a different pace, float through the canals of the Tortuguero National Park and visit turtle nesting grounds if you choose. From the Caribbean beaches to the Pacific, this stunning tour embodies some of the best that Costa Rica has to offer.
Highlights: Spotting wildlife while cruising the canals of Tortuguero, enjoying spectacular volcano views, hiking the trails of reserves and national parks, relaxing on the Pacific beaches.
Volcano Trail (JGS)
From the crystal-blue ocean teeming with marine life to tropical rainforests alive with jungle melodies, take the road less travelled on this trip through Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica with other travellers your own age. This is one of our most exciting trips, filled with breathtaking scenery and a chance to experience local culture with a 2-night homestay on the island of Ometepe. Enjoy a blend of public and private transportation, which not only keeps costs down but also gives you a chance to really meet the locals.
Highlights: Connecting with your hosts in an Ometepe homestay experience, relaxing seaside in the Bay Islands, laughing with the locals during a journey on a chicken bus, opportunities to go whitewater rafting, exploring Mayan ruins and hiking through a cloud forest
Mayan Sun (CGAC)
Trek though jungle backdrops to Mayan ruins and chill out on white sand under the Caribbean sun. Check out Mexico, Belize and Guatemala and experience the region’s diversity. Wander colonial Antigua’s cobblestone streets and shop for treasures before experiencing the natural beauty of Lake Atitlan, its indigenous Mayan villages and striking volcanoes. Snap a picture and impress the folks. One of our most popular trips, this adventure offers natural wonders, excitement and culture with enough time to socialize and do your own thing.
Highlights: Pounding the cobblestones of gorgeous colonial Antigua, overnighting in a local homestay, seeing the vibrant colours of markets, experiencing Caye Caulker sunsets and reggae music, blissing out on white sand beaches, exploring Mayan sites
Semana Santa - Easter in Guatemala (CGEM)
Antigua, Guatemala's most beautiful colonial city, is famous for its celebrations, and this unique 10-day adventure ensures you're there for Semana Santa—one of the most vibrant and colourful celebrations in all of Central America. Line the parade route along cobblestone streets decorated in flower petals and take in religious processionals on Good Friday. Search for cultural treasures at the famous Chichicastenango market and meet local Mayan villagers amidst the volcanic scenery of Lake Atitlán. See for yourself how timing is everything as you discover the splendour of Guatemala.
Highlights: Bartering at the bustling local market of Chichicastenango, Relaxing at breathtaking and peaceful Lake Atitlán, Watching the Holy Week processions and elaborate colourful carpets laid out in the streets in Antigua.
Jamaica Encompassed (CJRR)
Escape the all-inclusive resorts and see a side of Jamaica that few tourists experience on this whirlwind 10-day adventure. Meet true Rastafarians and learn about the original inhabitants of the island while hiking through lush wilderness. There are chances to visit the Appleton Estates rum distillery, the Bob Marley Museum and a Blue Mountain coffee plantation—for a taste of culture with a splash of fun in the sun. With plenty of time to relax on Jamaica's famous white sand beaches, you're going to come back well rested—and with a real understanding of this vibrant island.
Highlights: Blissing out on world-class beaches around the island, bargaining at the local market, drumming at a Rastafari village, dancing with the locals at a Maroon village, sampling Kingston nightlife.
Mexico Civilizations (CMMCD)
The top of Uxmal’s grand pyramid rewards you with a breathtaking view. This is what you came to Mexico for—the side of the Yucatán you can’t see from behind a resort’s wall. You’re here to dig deeper and discover the region’s rich archaeological and cultural wonders. Fill up on local delicacies and rich culture in Mérida but save space on your camera’s memory card for the region’s white sand beaches. From the majesty of Chichén Itzá to the ruins at Tulúm, connect with a side of Mexico few travellers get to know.
Highlights: Digging deep into ancient history at Mayan ruins, Delving into Mexican culture though the food and markets of Mérida, Swimming in the cooling underground cenotes, Exploring Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Mayan Discovery (CMMD)
Mayan ruins peeking out from verdant jungle, street vendors hawking their wares on colonial streets, pristine white sand beaches sparkling under the Caribbean sun—now this is the real Yucatán! On this unique 15-day journey, you’ll tour the ruins at Chichén Itzá and Palenque, and head deep into the jungle of Guatemala to experience the ruins of Tikal. You're free to choose your own adventure! So escape the resort packages and witness all the incredible wilderness, wildlife and Mayan culture—past and present—that you can imagine.
Highlights: Exploring Mayan temples, trekking through jungles, chilling out on a Belizean island, staring out into the Caribbean blue from a Mayan Riviera beach.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Mexico Monarch Butterfly Trail (CMMT)
For the nature lover who also appreciates cultural luminescence, this limited-edition butterfly adventure captures the brightest colours of Mexico in just ten days. From the historic streets of Mexico City, you'll travel through stunning national parks, colonial towns and beautiful countryside as you follow the migration of the monarch butterfly. Wander through flutters of butterflies in the reserves of El Rosario and Sierra Chincua. Off the beaten path, this quirky adventure will give you a unique insight into the people and 'mariposas' of Mexico.
Highlights: Watching thousands of monarch butterflies surround you, treading off the beaten track on horseback to small towns, gawking at impressive architecture in Morelia's city centre, sampling Mexico City's vibrant nightlife.
Mayan Trail (CMTM)
Leave the resorts of Cancún behind and embark on an authentic adventure that will take you from spectacular Mayan ruins, over the cobblestone streets of colonial towns and deep into the jungle of Mexico. Explore the ancient ruins at Chichén Itzá and Palenque and meet the descendants of those who built them in the vibrant streets and colourful markets of picturesque Mayan towns. Get your camera out—you're going to need it!
Highlights: Exploring the ruins of Chichén Itzá and Palenque, getting lost wandering colonial San Cristobal de las Casas and Antigua, marvelling at Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls, bargaining at colourful local markets.
Essence of Nicaragua (CNEN)
From the colonial streets of Granada and León to the beauty of San Juan del Sur's horseshoe bay, discover the best of Nicaragua on this unique 12-day adventure. Encounter a nature-lover's paradise on Ometepe Island and both dormant and active volcanoes amidst this country's stunning wilderness. Emerging from a long and turbulent history, Nicaragua is set to become the next big thing. Discover it before the others do and come away with a greater understanding of both the volatile past and a passion for this country's vibrant modern culture.
Highlights: Exploring colonial Granada, seeking out the revolutionary murals in León, chilling out on the beach at San Juan del Sur, Savouring a typical meal at a rural farm.
Trek Hidden Costa Rica (CRAC)
Think you know Costa Rica? Trade in the same old settings for the real deal. Trek into the heart of the jungle, live with three families in a remote village and embrace your inner Tarzan while bunking down behind a massive waterfall in a hidden cave. You'll learn about the medicinal plants native to these parts and how to make sugar cane candy. This is a spectacular country with opportunities for waterfall rappelling, surfing and whitewater rafting. Discover the emerald core of a diverse land. This is what adventure is all about.
Highlights: Trekking into a remote community to live with the locals, Sleeping in a cave behind twin 26m waterfalls, Making your own sugar cane candy, Experiencing a traditional sauna and learning about medicinal plants, Rappelling down hidden waterfalls, Whitewater rafting on the Savegre River
Backroads of Central America (CRBR)
Take the road less travelled through Central America with other travellers your own age—so you can be sure to get down with other adventurers that’ll keep up. This is one of our most exciting trips, filled with breathtaking scenery—from tropical rainforests alive with jungle melodies to colonial cities bouncing to a decidedly more human beat. You'll blaze your own path as you discover a region of volcanoes, craters, beaches and lush forests. Sticking to budget accommodation and public transport will keep costs down and you rooted in local life.
Highlights: Connecting with your hosts in an Ometepe homestay experience, laughing with the locals during a journey on a chicken bus, blissing out on a stretch of remote Nicaraguan beach, strolling through Antigua's colonial streets, exploring Mayan ruins, hiking through a cloud forest, sampling local cuisine.
Classic Costa Rica (CRCRD)
Connect with nature’s best in Costa Rica. Explore the lush rainforests full of exotic flora and fauna. Relax in the hot springs near Arenal Volcano and later enjoy a tortilla-making lesson and lunch with a local family. Learn how chocolate is made on a tour at La Tirimbina Rainforest Center and then enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Monteverde’s cloud forest atop a treetop canopy. Costa Rica is a world famous destination known for beautiful landscapes from the ground up.
Highlights: Learning about the Sarapiqui rainforest and Monteverde cloudforest with local naturalists, Partaking in demonstrations by experts on how chocolate and coffee get from the forest to your table, Sharing lunch and a cooking demonstration in a local family's home
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Volunteer Costa Rica (CRPJ)
From pristine cloud forests to the Pacific coast’s famous surf, experience some of the world's most incredible scenery and exotic wildlife—and make a lasting impact while you're there. Spend five days volunteering with a sea turtle project to help ensure these endearing creatures are around for future generations to admire. Then hike through misty cloud forests and get your heart racing on optional activities in the lush wilderness. Give some of your time to this beautiful country and a worthy cause, and you'll be rewarded with an experience you can really treasure. Gain a real sense of accomplishment and take home more than photographs.
Highlights: Patrolling for sea turtles laying their eggs, chilling out on the beach and watching the waves lap at the coast, searching for the elusive quetzal bird, taking the opportunity to go whitewater rafting.
Costa Rica Active Adventure (CRSM)
Trekking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, ziplining… Costa Rica really is the 'Adventure Capital of the Americas'. Thrill-seekers will find more than enough to keep themselves busy over this trip’s 13 action-packed days. After landing in San José, you’ll raft down the mighty Pacuare river before crossing over to our remote rainforest lodge, surrounded on all sides by the thick, enveloping jungle. From there, you’ll embark on four days of cycling and hiking around Monteverde and the Arenal Volcano, before heading down to the beach at Manuel Antonio National Park. Phew! Tired yet? No? Time to book!
Highlights: Traversing streams and jungle hiking in Sarapiquí Rainforest, paddling through world-class rapids, mountain biking along breathtaking Arenal Lake, chilling to the sounds of crashing Pacific waves.
Panama Experience (CRSP)
From San José, hit the beach and mountain retreats on your way to the locks of the world-famous Panama Canal at the centre of the Americas. Visit gorgeous islands and chill to reggae beats on Caribbean beaches. Search for the quetzal bird in cloud forests and shake your tailfeather in the clubs of Panama City. With your hotel and transport arranged by our CEOs, you can concentrate on choosing your own adventure.
Highlights: Listening to the reggae rhythms wafting through the Caribbean air, staring out at the crystal blue ocean, walking through lush greenery of the highlands, kicking back in a hammock on the Pacific, opportunity to watch ships pass through the Panama Canal.
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cuba Colonial (CCC) | 15 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1599
USD
|
| Mayan Encounter (CGME) | 11 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1199
USD
|
| Mayan Sun—Southbound (CMCA) | 16 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Costa Rica Adventure (CRA) | 16 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1449
USD
|
| Costa Rica Explorer (CRE) | 14 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1799
USD
|
| Volcano Trail (JGS) | 17 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1449
USD
|
| Mayan Sun (CGAC) | 16 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Semana Santa - Easter in Guatemala (CGEM) | 10 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1099
USD
|
| Jamaica Encompassed (CJRR) | 10 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1749
USD
|
| Mexico Civilizations (CMMCD) | 9 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1530
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1799
|
| Mayan Discovery (CMMD) | 15 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$1232
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1449
|
| Mexico Monarch Butterfly Trail (CMMT) | 10 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Mayan Trail (CMTM) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1299
USD
|
| Essence of Nicaragua (CNEN) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Trek Hidden Costa Rica (CRAC) | 12 days | Active | Basic |
From
$1199
USD
|
| Backroads of Central America (CRBR) | 17 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1449
USD
|
| Classic Costa Rica (CRCRD) | 9 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1240
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1549
|
| Volunteer Costa Rica (CRPJ) | 15 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$1049
USD
|
| Costa Rica Active Adventure (CRSM) | 13 days | Active | Standard |
From
$1299
USD
|
| Panama Experience (CRSP) | 14 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1249
USD
|
