- x Region Central America
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.
Mexico Day of the Dead in Oaxaca (CMDO)
One of the great festivals of the world, the Day of the Dead is at once a celebration of ancestors and a huge party. From candy skulls and colourful parades to family picnics in historic cemeteries, the Day of the Dead is a party like no other and this tour is your backstage pass. If you’re culturally curious or slightly ghoulish, join us in Oaxaca—Mexico’s artistic heartland—for a truly different perspective of the country at its most exciting. And with incredible ruins and fantastic landscapes all around, you don’t need to be Wednesday Addams to get into the macabre spirit of this incredible celebration.
Highlights: Following the seas of flowers and flickering candles of cemetery vigils, Watching the painted faces and street dances during Day of the Dead parades, Enjoying beautiful colonial Oaxaca, Bartering for macabre skeleton dolls at the market
Costa Rica Family Experience (CRFS)
Nothing brings learning to life like real-world experience. This week-long trip’s engaging lesson plan gives your kids an education in biology and ecology they’ll never get in a textbook. Here, you’ll spend five life-changing days studying the flora and fauna that inhabit the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve and Manuel Antonio National Park. Elsewhere, you’ll get in touch with the land by rappelling, rafting, swimming, horseback-riding and even surfing all over it. Science + gym? You do the math.
Highlights: Learning to surf on Costa Rica's pristine beaches, visiting a local family to learn to make tortillas, Spotting nature in dense cloud forest, enjoying the natural beauty of Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge.
Costa Rica Quest (CRQ)
Nature called you to Costa Rica—now here you are, suspended in the jungle canopy, locking eyes with a curious monkey. This action-packed tour of Costa Rica’s highlights is perfect for the adventurer with limited time who wants to explore the region’s diversity. Get your adrenaline pumping, follow a trail to the base of a waterfall, melt away in thermal springs or bliss out on a beach—our CEOs will help you find the secluded spots only the locals know.
Highlights: Soaking in the thermal hot springs of Arenal Volcano, searching for the elusive quetzal bird in the cloud forest, watching the sunset over the Pacific.
Costa Rica Pass - Route 5 Adventure Bus (TCR5BN)
Travel from coast to coast, from the Caribbean-flavoured beaches of Costa Rica's Atlantic coast to the Latin rhythms of Guanacaste, known for its miles of beaches, killer surf and consistently sunny weather. In between, make a stop on the country's volcanic backbone at the Arenal Volcano, a wonderland of rafting, hiking, waterfalls and hot springs.
Highlights: Enjoying the surf and relaxing with a cocktail on the beach, keeping active around Arenal Volcano, kayaking the estuaries along the coast at Guanacaste.
Costa Rica Pass - Route 4 Self Drive (TCR4DN)
Drive around three great western highlights: from volcanoes to cloud forests to beaches and monkeys. Start with the area near active Arenal Volcano, known for rafting and hot springs, then head to the hills and the unique ecosystem of Monteverde's cloud forests. Finish it all with some beach time in Manuel Antonio Park, blessed with wildlife, fantastic beaches, and the best nightlife on the Pacific coast.
Highlights: San José, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio/Quepos Area
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 Pass - Route 5 Self Drive (TCR5DN)
Drive from coast to coast, from the Caribbean-flavoured beaches of Costa Rica's Atlantic to the Latin rhythms of Guanacaste, known for its miles of beaches, killer surf and consistently sunny weather. In between, make a stop on the country's volcanic backbone at active Arenal Volcano, a wonderland of rafting, hiking, waterfalls and hot springs.
Highlights: San José, Cahuita or Puerto Viejo, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano, Guanacaste.
Cuba Family Adventure (CCFA)
Cuba’s past is well-known, but what of its present? Take the family and find out for yourself on this jam-packed 12-day adventure that celebrates the island’s colonial past and vibrant modern-day culture. Here, you’ll learn to salsa in Havana, go swimming in Cueva de los Peces, explore colonial Trinidad and learn about the revolution in historic Santa Clara. Blessed with history, culture and unspoiled natural splendour, Cuba is captivating, indoors and out.
Highlights: Cruising through Havana in a vintage automobile, Blissing out on a beautiful beach overlooking the Caribbean, Exploring Indian Cave by boat, Walking among karst peaks, visiting a crocodile farm, learning about fascinating Cuban history.
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.
The Best of Costa Rica (TCRBCC)
Can't decide between the jungle, volcanoes or the beach? Do all three on this 10-day journey around all that makes Costa Rica world-renowned for its natural beauty. Start by cruising the remote rainforests of Tortuguero (no roads here!) before heading to volcano country. Stay at the foot of Arenal Volcano and explore the rivers, trails and hot springs of the area before chasing sun and sea in Guanacaste, known for its miles of beaches, killer surf and great weather.
Highlights: Spotting monkeys and other wildlife, relaxing on the beach, getting active in the Arenal region, soaking in relaxing hot springs after a hard day of play.
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.
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
Costa Rica Volcanoes & Surf (CRVS)
Mountain bike along Lake Arenal with breathtaking volcanic views and catch a wave on this action-packed 9-day tour of Costa Rica. Get your adrenaline pumping with optional extreme sports like whitewater rafting, rappelling and ziplining through the lush jungle canopy. Learn to surf the famous Pacific breaks at Playa Hermosa and enjoy plenty of time to relax on tropical beaches. Throw in the opportunity to see incredible rainforest wildlife and you've got a unique adventure you'll be talking about for years.
Highlights: Surfing the waves of one of the best breaks in the country, Catching views of Arenal Volcano from a lakeside mountain bike ride, Searching for the elusive quetzal bird in the cloud forest, Watching the sunset over the Pacific.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 3
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
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
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
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
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
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.
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.
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.
| Trip | Length | Style | Service Level | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico Day of the Dead in Oaxaca (CMDO) | 7 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$999
USD
|
| Costa Rica Family Experience (CRFS) | 8 days | Family | Comfort |
From
$999
USD
|
| Costa Rica Quest (CRQ) | 9 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$999
USD
|
| Costa Rica Pass - Route 5 Adventure Bus (TCR5BN) | 11 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1019
USD
|
| Costa Rica Pass - Route 4 Self Drive (TCR4DN) | 11 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1029
USD
|
| Volunteer Costa Rica (CRPJ) | 15 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$1049
USD
|
| Costa Rica Pass - Route 5 Self Drive (TCR5DN) | 11 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1049
USD
|
| Cuba Family Adventure (CCFA) | 12 days | Family | Comfort |
From
$1099
USD
|
| Semana Santa - Easter in Guatemala (CGEM) | 10 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1099
USD
|
| The Best of Costa Rica (TCRBCC) | 10 days | G-Plus | Comfort |
From
$1149
USD
|
| Mayan Encounter (CGME) | 11 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1199
USD
|
| Trek Hidden Costa Rica (CRAC) | 12 days | Active | Basic |
From
$1199
USD
|
| Costa Rica Volcanoes & Surf (CRVS) | 9 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1215
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1349
|
| Mayan Discovery (CMMD) | 15 days | Classic | Basic |
From
$1232
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1449
|
| Volcano Trail (JGS) | 17 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1232
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1449
|
| Classic Costa Rica (CRCRD) | 9 days | Discovery Adventures | Comfort |
From
$1240
USD
Promotions Available!
Was
$1549
|
| Mayan Sun (CGAC) | 16 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Mayan Sun—Southbound (CMCA) | 16 days | Yolo | Basic |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Mexico Monarch Butterfly Trail (CMMT) | 10 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1249
USD
|
| Essence of Nicaragua (CNEN) | 12 days | Classic | Standard |
From
$1249
USD
|
