Epic Central America: Seven Countries & the Softest Sand Ever
Epic Central America: Seven Countries & the Softest Sand Ever
Epic Central America: Seven Countries & the Softest Sand Ever
45 Days Starting in Mexico City and ending in San José
Visiting: Mexico City, Oaxaca, San Cristóbal, Palenque, Bacalar, Valladolid, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, Flores, Rio Dulce, Antigua Guatemala, Panajachel, San Juan La Laguna, Copán, Suchitoto, Playa El Tunco, León, Granada, Isla de Ometepe, Monteverde, La Fortuna, San José
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25846
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 18
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
The big kahuna of our Central America trips. Travel from Mexico City all the way to Costa Rica over 45 days of jam-packed adventure, collecting seven new stamps in your passport along the way. For a relatively small geographical part of the world, this area overflowing with epic experiences of every kind. From mouth-watering meals, white-sand beaches, and incredible ancient ruins, to eye-popping scenery, spectacular wildlife and cultural traditions, Central America packs a giant punch of adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel Soy Local CDMX
Accommodation Name: Hotel Soy Local CDMX
Arrive at any time.
ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel Soy Local CDMX
Accommodation Name: Hotel Soy Local CDMX
Start the adventure off with a CEO-led walking tour through La Condesa and Roma neighborhoods. Stroll past bohemian cafes, bars, and restaurants. Your CEO will grab some street food snacks for the group ranging from street tacos to chilaquiles. Savour whatever you sample as you continue to get to know the area. Finish up the tour near the giant Bosque de Chapultepec. Then, spend the afternoon trying out the optional activities in the area like a visit to the ruins of Teotihuacán.
ACTIVITY: Get the lay of the land during a walking tour of Mexico City with your CEO. Start by visiting the La Condesa and Roma neighborhoods. Wander past the bars, restaurants, and cafes. Sample some street food snacks purchased by your CEO. The tour ends at Bosque de Chapultepec.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Take advantage of free time to get to know Mexico City on your own. Choose from a variety of optional activities in the area, seek out some great food spots, or search for some unique gifts to bring back to your friends and family.
Day 3: Mexico City/Oaxaca
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hostal Don Nino
Accommodation Name: Hostal Don Nino
Hit the road and travel south to Oaxaca from Mexico City. Once the group arrives we will head out for an orientation walk to the main square and some of the nearby markets. Soak in your first experience of the vibrant culture in Oaxaca. Enjoy a free evening to do as you please. Perhaps, find a lively restaurant and give your tastebuds something to dance about.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: All walks will be slightly different, allowing your CEO to show off their favourite spots. You can expect to see the Santo Domingo Cultural Centre, walk through the zocalo and the famous 20th of November market. Opt to sample some delicious Oaxacan foods along the way such as mole, tlayudas or chapulines.
Day 4: Oaxaca
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation: Hostal Don Nino
Accommodation Name: Hostal Don Nino
Today, enjoy a free day for optional activities in Oaxaca until late afternoon. Explore local taverns, discover the vibrant indigenous culture in the area, sample food from lively markets, try mole, and mezcal and fully experience the allure of this Mexican city. Later your CEO will accompany the group to the market where you can try a tlayuda, a toasted tortilla with tons of different toppings like refried beans, shredded cabbage, salsa, meat, and cheese. Cap off the day with a visit to a local chocolate-making shop and a free evening to keep the adventure going.
Additional Information: You can pre-book the Hierve el Agua Day Trip during check-out and pay a visit to a petrified waterfall outside of Oaxaca.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY From museums and galleries to markets filled with locally produced arts and crafts, it's impossible to run out of things to do in Oaxaca. Choose to stroll down more of the streets off the main square in search of street art, check out the intricately designed black pottery, hand-woven Zapotec rugs in local shops, and take in panoramic views of the city from Cerro del Fortín.
ACTIVITY: Your CEO will accompany the group to the market where you can try a tlayuda, a toasted tortilla with tons of different toppings like refried beans, shredded cabbage, salsa, meat, and cheese before capping off the day with a visit to a local chocolate-making shop.
Day 5: Oaxaca/San Cristóbal
Location: Oaxaca
The group will have additional free time today in Oaxaca for other optional activities. Afterwards, visit the Alebrijes Artisan Community for your G for Good moment. Meet a local artisan, speak with them, ask any questions the group may have, and learn more about how these handicrafts are made. In the evening board and overnight bus to San Cristobal.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY Enjoy more free time in Oaxaca. Taste more delicious food from the markets, book an optional cooking class and learn how to make mole, or shop for keepsakes at the many local stores and craft markets with featuring work by the artists who call Oaxaca home.
ACTIVITY: Alebrijes were created by a Mexican artisan named Pedro Linares who was known for making piñatas and carnival masks. After falling ill and hallucinating crazy figures and creatures inside his mind, the artist decided to bring what he saw to life by creating the small figurines we know as Alebrijes. Often made of a mash-up between animals, these figurines are now made by Oaxacan artisans out of wood and then painted with vibrant pigments and lots of patterns. Learn more about how these figurines integrated themselves into Oaxacan/Mexican folklore and how the craft expanded from originally being made from cardboard to now being carved from Copal wood. Meet a local artisan and speak with them, ask any questions the group may have and to learn more about how the Alebrijes are crafted.
TRANSPORT: Curl up and catch a snooze en route to the next stop.
Day 6: San Cristóbal
Location: San Cristóbal
Accommodation: Hotel San Martin
Accommodation Name: Hotel San Martin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Arrive early to Tuxtla Gutierrez, which is a city in southern Mexico and the capital of Chiapas. The group will travel by private bus to Sumidero Canyon for an included boat ride down the river. The trip is a few hours long and will take you through the canyon with some of the walls towering 2,500 feet above you. It’s sure to make you feel small. Keep a lookout for the wildlife in the area and try to spot caves as you journey on. Afterwards, continue on to San Cristobal de las Casas where you will stop for the evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Drive an hour before boarding a boat for a 2-hr journey through the deep Sumidero Canyon. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, birds, monkeys and maybe even a river crocodile. Marvel at the tall waterfalls, hidden caves, and unusual rock formations along the Grijalva River. After, stop in a village to visit markets and enjoy lunch.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 7: San Cristóbal
Location: San Cristóbal
Accommodation: Hotel San Martin
Accommodation Name: Hotel San Martin
San Cristóbal de Las Casas is located in a high mountain valley at 2110m (6921 ft). Enjoy a free day to experience this city known for its 16th-century architecture. Opt to visit nearby indigenous Mayan villages to see their unique day-to-day, or visit Lagunas de Montebello National Park and the group of beautiful lakes near the Guatemalan border. You have a full day to do as you please and there are plenty of activities to try out.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a free day to experience this city known for its 16th-century architecture. Opt to visit nearby indigenous Mayan villages to see their unique day-to-day, or visit Lagunas de Montebello National Park and the group of beautiful lakes near the Guatemalan border.
Day 8: San Cristóbal/Palenque
Location: San Cristóbal
Accommodation: Hotel Maya Tulipanes
Accommodation Name: Hotel Maya Tulipanes
Get ready for a full day of travel from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque. Along the way the group will stop to swim in the pristine turquoise waters of Roberto Barrios waterfall. Arrive to Palenque in the evening.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Zapatista community of Roberto Barrios, Chiapas, have a swim and explore the cascading waterfall. If it hasn’t rained for a few days, you will be astonished how bright the light blue water can get.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 9: Palenque
Location: Palenque
Accommodation: Hotel Maya Tulipanes
Accommodation Name: Hotel Maya Tulipanes
Enjoy a guided tour of the impressive Mayan ruins of Palenque followed by free time for an optional jungle trail hike, or just relax at the hotel keeping an eye out for nearby birds and wildlife.
ACTIVITY: Experience the elegant jungle site of Palenque on a guided tour. See the highlights -- the Temple of the Cross Group, Temple of Inscriptions and the Grand Palace. Howler monkeys sound in the distance as the fog rolls in and out of this mystical site, one of the most important centres for trade and culture during the end of the Classic Maya period.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy a free afternoon for an optional jungle hike or otherwise just kick back at the hotel and listen to the sounds of the jungle. Ask your CEO for more recommendations should you need them.
Day 10: Palenque/Bacalar
Location: Palenque
Accommodation: Bacalar Magico Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bacalar Magico Hotel
Spend the day travelling to Bacalar in the eastern part of Mexico from Palenque. Sit back as the scenery changes outside your window and rest up for the next part of the trip.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 11: Bacalar
Location: Bacalar
Accommodation: Bacalar Magico Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bacalar Magico Hotel
Spend a full free day enjoying optional activities in the area, or just relax and keep the good vibes going.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Take advantage of free time for optionals in the area. Explore the San Felipe Bacalar Fort or visit the lagoon again for some kayaking.
Day 12: Bacalar/Valladolid
Location: Bacalar
Accommodation: Hotel Santa Ana
Accommodation Name: Hotel Santa Ana
The group is in for a treat this morning with an included boating adventure in the lagoon. In the afternoon it’s onward to Valladolid. Travel north and inland from Bacalar to a city on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Upon arrival your CEO will lead you on an orientation walk of the small Mayan town filled with quaint taverns, vibrant indigenous culture, and loads of street food vendors. Smell the delicious aromas as you walk and sample a few snacks along the way.
ACTIVITY: Head out into the Bacalar lagoon by boat this morning for a fun adventure. Start by visiting the Canal de los Piratas for a swim in the clear waters. Then, visit Cenote Negro, an open-air cenote and also the deepest point in the entire lagoon. From there the boat will stop at Cenote Esmeralda to admire the different shades of blue. Finally stop at Cenote Cocalitos, home to stromatolites, which are living stones that are thought to be the oldest form of life on Earth. Here you’ll enjoy a prepared picnic featuring fresh fruit.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Marvel at Valladolid’s colonial buildings, which includes a 16th-century convent of San Bernardino of Siena, and the San Gervasio Cathedral. Walk through the streets of town smelling the delicious aromas from the street food vendors. Sample some delicious treats and get to know this vibrant Mayan town.
Day 13: Valladolid/Tulum
Location: Valladolid
Accommodation: Hotel Casa Colonial
Accommodation Name: Hotel Casa Colonial
After a short, but sweet visit in Valladolid the group will travel to the Chichen Itzá ruins for a guided tour. These ruins hold the history, beliefs, and rituals that defined ancient Mayan civilization. See the Pyramid of Kukulcan, the famous Castillo, the cenote, and the Nunnery. Afterwards, travel to Tulum for a free evening. Tulum is filled with trendy beach clubs where you can dance the night away, or stretch out on white sand beaches to admire the colors at sunset.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Join up with a local expert and learn about the history of Chichén Itzá and the beliefs and rituals that defined this ancient Mayan civilization. This dramatic site includes a 30m (98 ft) high temple, known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan, famous for its balustrade of 91 stairs up each of the four sides, a ball court with a grandstand, and towering walls. Visit the highlights of the site including the famous Castillo, the ball court, the cenote, and the Nunnery.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: EVENING Take this time to soak in the spectacular coastline of Tulum. Swim in the cobalt waters off of the white sand beaches. Hunt down some delicious street food and have a picnic in the sand. Or if you're still feeling adventurous, head out for some cave and cavern exploring in the nearby cenotes.
Day 14: Tulum/Playa Del Carmen
Location: Tulum
Accommodation: Hotel 12 bees
Accommodation Name: Hotel 12 bees
Travel from Tulum to Playa del Carmen where you can enjoy time to explore on your own. Tonight, head out with your fellow travellers to 12th Street, where there’s tons of bars and clubs to choose from.
Day 15: Playa Del Carmen
Location: Playa del Carmen
Accommodation: Hotel 12 bees
Accommodation Name: Hotel 12 bees
Enjoy free time to explore the Mayan ruins of Tulúm or take a ferry to nearby Cozumel. Or just play in the waves and enjoy the beach.
Start your holiday off with some hardcore relaxation. Enjoy a full day of free time to fill as you wish. Get your ruin on with a visit to Tulum perched atop the sea, explore the fish- and coral-filled seas around Cozumel on a scuba dive, go swimming in a cenote or at the beach, and save some energy for a night out on the town.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Free time to explore the Mayan ruins of Tulúm, the diving mecca of Cozumel, or play in the waves and enjoy the beach!
Day 16: Playa Del Carmen/Caye Caulker
Location: Playa del Carmen
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel
Opt to snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, go diving or just chill out, Belizean style.
Mention Belize and you may conjure up visions of unbelievably clear blue waters, diving and snorkelling along the barrier reef and remarkable marine life. Belize also boasts huge swaths of jungle, ancient Mayan ruins, and above all, friendly, easygoing people. Belize is all this and much more!
TRANSPORT: MORNING Ride on in style. This sure isn't your grandmother's public bus.
ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Arrive at the Mexican border then go to immigration to get passports stamped and pay the exit fee. After a quick trip on the bus, grab your luggage and pass through Belizean immigration and customs. Get back on the bus with your stuff and get ready to start exploring Belize.
TRANSPORT: MORNING Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
TRANSPORT: AFTERNOON Jump in and cross the water to the next stop.
Day 17: Caye Caulker
Location: Caye Caulker
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel
Opt to snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, go diving or just chill out, Belizean style.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Do as much or as little as you wish on this little slice of paradise in Belize. Cruise the island or explore its seas–the Caribbean awaits!
Day 18: Caye Caulker
Location: Caye Caulker
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel
Opt to snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, go diving or just chill out, Belizean style.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Do as much or as little as you wish on this little slice of paradise in Belize. Cruise the island or explore its seas–the Caribbean awaits!
Day 19: Caye Caulker/San Ignacio
Location: Caye Caulker
Accommodation: Kawoq Hostel
Accommodation Name: Kawoq Hostel
Meals Included: Lunch
Travel by boat and bus from Caye Caulker to San Ignacio. Enjoy an included pottery demonstration and local lunch at a G Adventures-supported women's pottery cooperative.
From the town of San Ignacio, opportunities abound for exploring Belize’s little known inland scenic beauty. With free time here, choose to explore the area by foot, canoe or horse, take a caving trip, or visit the Mountain Pine Ridge Area and swim in its inviting pools and rivers.
TRANSPORT: MORNING Jump in and cross the water to the next stop.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: Like in many places around the world, education for women in the village of San Antonio isn’t prioritized. Girls don’t typically attend school beyond primary levels. So a women’s cooperative was founded here, as a way for underprivileged women to earn income, learn new skills, and share centuries-old Mayan techniques and knowledge. Visit the pottery workshop, which is newly expanded with an investment from G Adventures. Meet some of the women who’ve found community within its walls and gain insight into the tradition of throwing pots. Afterward, enjoy lunch together with these inspiring and unforgettable women, sampling traditional foods of the Cayo region.
Day 20: San Ignacio
Location: San Ignacio
Accommodation: Kawoq Hostel
Accommodation Name: Kawoq Hostel
Opt to visit the sacred Mayan cave Actun Tunichil Muknal or check out the seldom-visited Mayan ruins of Xunantunich.
Day 21: San Ignacio/Flores
Location: San Ignacio
Accommodation: Peten Express Hotel
Accommodation Name: Peten Express Hotel
Learn about Mayan culture and history on a guided tour of the ruins of Tikal.
Cross the border into Guatemala and you immediately notice the difference in culture, with its heavy Mayan influence and Spanish language. Here we have entered Guatemala’s northeast jungle Petén region. The descendants of the Maya of Chichén Itzá migrated to the Petén area several centuries after the collapse of the great Mayan cities in the Yucatán.
En route to Flores, stop for a guided tour of the ancient city of Tikal. Arrive in Flores, the capital of the department of Petén, a small island located on the second largest lake of Guatemala, Lake Petén Itzá.
TRANSPORT: MORNING Jump in the back and tell the driver to step on it, just like they do in the movies.
ACTIVITY: MORNING Grab your bags from the vehicle and head to immigration after paying the exit fee. Passports get stamped in immigration and then passed to your CEO for the short walk (200m) to the Guatemalan border where the entrance fee is paid. Lend a hand loading luggage into the vehicle while your CEO gets all the passports stamped. Welcome to Guatemala!
TRANSPORT: MORNING Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: AFTERNOON Put on your walking shoes and prepare for a tiring but memorable day walking through history at the impressive site of Tikal. The Mayan site is set in the heart of the jungle, in Tikal National Park, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Along with our bilingual guide, see some of the temples, plazas, carved stone monuments and public squares, more than 3,000 buildings in all, dating from as far back as 600 BC. Climb to the top of Temple IV, catch your breath, take photos, and then sit and contemplate the magnificence of the site and the tropical rainforest beyond. Look for monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, and deer, as well as macaws and eagles, snakes, and spiders.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 22: Flores/Rio Dulce
Location: Flores
Accommodation: Hotel Hacienda Tijax
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hacienda Tijax
Travel across the country towards the coast to Rio Dulce, on the shores of Lake Izabal.
A travel day from Flores to Rio Dulce which is located in the department of Izabal, home of the largest lake in Guatemala, Lake Izabal was one of the most important water ways of the Spanish crown during colonial times.
We take the road past areas of dense jungle and arrive at Río Dulce, a small town on Lake Izabal and a port stop for boaters around the globe, on their way to/from Livingston and the Caribbean coast.
TRANSPORT: MORNING Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 23: Rio Dulce
Location: Rio Dulce
Accommodation: Hotel Hacienda Tijax
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hacienda Tijax
Meals Included: Lunch
Travel to the Caribbean town of Livingston by scenic boat ride from Rio Dulce. Enjoy a visit to the G Adventures–supported El Manglar Restaurant for an explanation of the women-led community initiative project here. Then, walk around the grounds before a sit-down lunch of delicious local flavours.
ACTIVITY: Take a boat down the Rio Dulce toward the Caribbean Sea passing through El Golfete and El Canyon before arriving to Livingston. Float past mangroves and lily pads and the Boquerón Canyon, where a sheer limestone cliff rises 122m (400 ft) out of the river, covered in vines, trees and moss. Arrive at the small fishing village of Livingston known for its unique Afro-Caribbean Garifuna population, with their unique art, music and delicious coconut seafood soup, “tapado”.
ACTIVITY: El Manglar Restaurant in Guatemala is a women-led community tourism initiative founded by the Cayo Quemado Women's Committee with the aim of creating new job opportunities within the community. During your visit you will begin with a welcome given by the women of the committee and receive a brief introduction to the workshop. Then, there will be a short walk around the property, including a full explanation of the project, it's impact, and culture before you all sit down for lunch at the restaurant. Every traveler that visits Cayo Quemado has a direct impact on their community.
Day 24: Rio Dulce/Antigua Guatemala
Location: Rio Dulce
Accommodation: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Accommodation Name: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Enjoy an orientation walk of Antigua's cobblestone streets, then opt to take a salsa lesson and practice new moves out at night.
Today is a travel day from Rio Dulce to Antigua, followed by an orientation walk once you arrive. Plan your activities for the next day and enjoy some of the nightlife this beautiful colonial city has to offer.
TRANSPORT: MORNING Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Day 25: Antigua Guatemala
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Accommodation: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Accommodation Name: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Enjoy a free day in Antigua. Opt to relax with a massage, climb a volcano, soak up the culture in one of the city's many cafés, or explore the nearby hills and towns by bike.
Get adventurous and pre-book the Pacaya Volcano Hike on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Free time in Antigua. Relax with a massage, climb a volcano, soak up the culture of this colonial town’s many museums and cafes, attend a chocolate workshop, visit one of the local coffee or macadamia nut plantations, or explore the nearby hills and towns by bike.
Day 26: Antigua Guatemala/Panajachel
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Accommodation: Kamol Bey
Accommodation Name: Kamol Bey
Travel to beautiful Lake Atitlán and enjoy the views.
Travel through the hills and fertile fields of the Guatemalan highlands to the shores of Lake Atitlán, one of the most beautiful spots in Guatemala. Twelve native villages, blue/grey mountains and three volcanoes line the shores of this lake resulting in a wonderful combination of unusual natural beauty and traditional culture.
The area is also ideal for outdoor pursuits like swimming, fishing, wind surfing, hiking, bird watching, kayaking, and horseback riding.
Additional Information: Note: Please dress conservatively when visiting the villages and refrain from photographing religious ceremonies, or individuals who do not wish to be photographed.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 27: Panajachel/San Juan La Laguna
Location: Panajachel
Accommodation: Rupalaj Kistalin Posada Homestay
Accommodation Name: Rupalaj Kistalin Posada Homestay
Meals Included: Dinner
Embark on a boat ride across the lake before participating in a G Adventures-supported homestay with a local family. This area is known for stunning scenery and great shopping for Mayan handicrafts. Opt to bargain for colourful textiles and paintings at the lake's markets.
TRANSPORT: AFTERNOON Climb aboard and get your float on.
ACTIVITY: Submerge yourself in Mayan culture during this home stay run by a Planeterra community tourism project. Set on the northwest shore of Lake Atitlán, arrive by boat to the laid-back village of San Juan La Laguna and immediately feel at home. Meet your host family, stash your stuff, then set off to explore the area. Admire the paintings of local artists, watch weavers who use traditional techniques to dye wool, go for a hike and admire the view across the lake. Feel good knowing you are supporting local families eager to benefit from tourism in their community.
Day 28: San Juan La Laguna/Antigua Guatemala
Location: San Juan La Laguna
Accommodation: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Accommodation Name: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Return to Antigua, and enjoy a Big Night Out with the group.
We return to Antigua to spend more time to explore the city, shop, and check out optional activities in the area.
Optional activities include visiting a macadamia nut farm, checking out a coffee plantation, biking around Antigua's surrounding hills or taking a salsa lesson.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard and get your float on.
TRANSPORT: AFTERNOON Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
Day 29: Antigua Guatemala
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Accommodation: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Accommodation Name: Antigua Lemon Tree Hostel
Enjoy free time to relax with a massage, explore the nearby hills by bicycle, or visit a local macadamia nut farm.
Get adventurous and pre-book the Pacaya Volcano Hike on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Get out and explore Guatemala's former capital city.
Day 30: Antigua Guatemala/Copán
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Accommodation: Hotel Brisas de Copan
Accommodation Name: Hotel Brisas de Copan
Set off today on a full day of travel from Antigua across the border to neighboring Honduras, arriving to the town of Copán Ruinas in the evening.
The colonial highland town of Copán Ruinas is a charming and relaxing place, set along a river in the coffee growing region close to the Guatemalan border.
The Mayan ruins of Copán are fascinating, beautiful and unique among Mayan cities. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980, Copán contains some of the most important Mayan ruins found to date, and many unusual artistic features, including some of the most detailed carving in the Mayan world.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Day 31: Copán
Location: Copán
Accommodation: Hotel Brisas de Copan
Accommodation Name: Hotel Brisas de Copan
Free time in Copán. Opt to visit the ruins of Copán or soak in hot springs.
Free time in Copan. Opt to visit the impressive Copan ruins and check out some lesser known Mayan sites along the way. Knowledgable local guides can interpret the many Mayan carvings left here over 1,000 years ago. You can also journey through the countryside to some hidden jungle hot springs for a relaxing soak.
FREE TIME: Free time in the town of Copán. Opt to visit the Copán Ruins, explore the hills, or soak in hot springs.
Day 32: Copán/Suchitoto
Location: Copán
Accommodation: Posada Alta Vista
Accommodation Name: Posada Alta Vista
Cross the border into El Salvador and stay in the colonial town of Suchitoto. Don't forget to try the delicious pupusas, a local Salvadorian specialty.
Additional Information: Prepare for the long travel day with snacks.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Day 33: Suchitoto/La Libertad Region
Location: Suchitoto
Accommodation: Atami Escape Resort
Accommodation Name: Atami Escape Resort
Enjoy a free morning in Suchitoto before heading to the coast in the La Libertad region. The sunsets in these small surfing towns are stunning. Grab a cold drink and enjoy!
FREE TIME: MORNING Enjoy a free morning to check out this colonial city.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 34: La Libertad Region
Location: Playa El Tunco
Accommodation: Atami Escape Resort
Accommodation Name: Atami Escape Resort
Enjoy a free day in the laidback beach towns of the area to take a surf lesson, eat fresh ceviche at the fish market in nearby La Libertad, visit the Tamanique waterfalls, or chill out with a beer in hand.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy a free day to do as much or as little as you'd like in this beach town.
Day 35: La Libertad Region/León
Location: Playa El Tunco
Accommodation: Hotel Hellenika
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hellenika
Set off early for a full day of travel by land and sea to Nicaragua, finishing up in colonial León with a brief orientation walk.
TRANSPORT: MORNING Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard and get your float on.
ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
TRANSPORT: AFTERNOON Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Take a brief walk of the historic center of León. Pass through the central park, the local market, and various historical churches.
Day 36: León/Granada
Location: León
Accommodation: Hotel Posada del Sol
Accommodation Name: Hotel Posada del Sol
Journey to Granada and see its colourful colonial buildings on an orientation walk. Enjoy a Big Night Out with the group.
Granada’s colonial charm is complemented by the active volcanoes and lakes that surround it, and there are many fun easy day trips available. Hike, cruise, or just explore the city’s markets and museums.
Walking is probably the easiest way to see all the sights of Granada.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
ACTIVITY: Whether it’s a pub crawl, drink specials or a bonfire on the beach, celebrate late into the night with your new best friends.
Day 37: Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Hotel Posada del Sol
Accommodation Name: Hotel Posada del Sol
Free time to explore beautiful Granada's markets, buildings and museums. Opt to kayak in Lake Nicaragua or swim in Laguna de Apoyo.
Free time to explore beautiful Granada's busy markets, colonial buildings and museums on foot or take a horse and carriage ride around town. Enjoy a meal on the "calzada", a pedestrian street that extends from the center of town down to Lake Nicaragua.
There are many optional activities to do just outside of town as well. Walk in the forest at the top of Mombacho Volcano, kayak around the isletas in Lake Nicaragua or swim in Laguna de Apoyo.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Free time to explore beautiful Granada's markets, buildings and museums, view Masaya Volcano's smoldering crater, kayak in Lake Nicaragua or swim in Laguna de Apoyo.
Day 38: Granada/Isla De Ometepe
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Puesta del Sol Homestay
Accommodation Name: Puesta del Sol Homestay
Meals Included: Dinner
Get to know local friends during a 2-night G Adventures-supported community homestay on Ometepe. Try the local cuisine and test out some language skills.
From the town of San Jorge, we cross Lake Nicaragua by ferry to arrive at Ometepe Island, formed from two volcanoes, one active and one dormant that rise out of the middle of the lake. The limited development and traditional communities create a welcoming relaxed atmosphere.
The group will be split up amongst different local families who will host you in their homes for two nights in a small community on the island. Breakfast and dinner will be provided in the home. This experience give you a chance to see how rural Nicaraguans live.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Stay with a local family by the lake in the small rural village of La Paloma, near Moyogalpa, on Ometepe Island. Your presence is supporting this community-owned and operated business. The Planeterra Foundation helped launch the project and trained up the community to host G Adventures travellers. While you're here, practice Spanish, enjoy authentically-cooked fresh food and hike the nearby trails.
Day 39: Isla De Ometepe
Location: Isla de Ometepe
Accommodation: Puesta del Sol Homestay
Accommodation Name: Puesta del Sol Homestay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy free time to explore Ometepe. Opt to climb Volcano Concepción or Volcano Maderas, take a cultural tour, visit the beach at Santo Domingo, or visit el Ojo de Agua for a refreshing swim and lunch. You can also view pre-Columbian petroglyphs or the small museum of indigenous artifacts in Altagracia.
Today is a free day in Ometepe. We get to spend more time with the local host families and see more of the island. Opt to climb either of the two volcanoes on the island, view petroglyphs left by the island's original inhabitants, walk or kayak in Charco Verde reserve, swim in clear spring water at Ojo de Agua, lay on the beach or explore the island on bicycle.
FREE TIME: Free time in Ometepe. Spend time with the local host families and see more of the island. Opt to climb either of the two volcanoes on the island, view petroglyphs, walk or kayak in Charco Verde reserve, swim in clear spring water at Ojo de Agua, lay on the beach or explore the island on bicycle.
ACTIVITY: Stay with a local family by the lake in the small rural village of La Paloma, near Moyogalpa, on Ometepe Island. Your presence is supporting this community-owned and operated business. The Planeterra Foundation helped launch the project and trained up the community to host G Adventures travellers. While you're here, practice Spanish, enjoy authentically-cooked fresh food and hike the nearby trails.
Day 40: Isla De Ometepe/Monteverde
Location: Isla de Ometepe
Accommodation: Hotel Manakin
Accommodation Name: Hotel Manakin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a ferry back to the mainland and cross the border into Costa Rica, finishing up in the cloudforest air of Monteverde.
At 1,400 meters above sea level, Monteverde is literally in the clouds. The Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserves are home to diverse and unique flora and fauna. Sloths, monkeys, kinkajous, tapirs and large cats inhabit the area. There are more species of orchids here than anywhere else in the world.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: Be prepared to walk with bags approximately 10 minutes between the Nicaragua and Costa Rica border stations.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 41: Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation: Hotel Manakin
Accommodation Name: Hotel Manakin
Free day in Monteverde. Opt to visit a cloud forest reserve, fly through the jungle canopy via zipline, or tour a coffee plantation.
The day is free to choose from many optional activities. Fly hundreds of meters above the trees on a zip-lining tour, hike through one of the cloud forest reserves, ride a horse in the mountains, visit a coffee/sugar cane farm, tour the cheese factory or check out the orchid garden, serpentarium, or frog pond in town.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY The day is free to choose from many optional activities. Fly hundreds of meters above the trees on a zip-lining tour, hike through one of the cloud forest reserves, ride a horse in the mountains, visit a coffee/sugar cane farm, tour the cheese factory or check out the orchid garden, serpentarium, or frog pond in town.
Day 42: Monteverde/La Fortuna
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation: Poshpacker Arenal
Accommodation Name: Poshpacker Arenal
Transfer to La Fortuna along bumpy roads, then break up the journey with a peaceful boat ride on Lake Arenal before a short ride to the town.
The trip from Monteverde to La Fortuna takes us down from the cloud forest and across Costa Rica's largest lake The town of La Fortuna lies at the base of the Arenal Volcano, which dominates the landscape rising to 1670 meters high. The town has become famous as the adventure sports capital of Costa Rica.
Choose your adventure! Canyoning, white water rafting, hiking, caving, rafting, horseback riding, paddlebording, kayaking, visiting a wildlife refuge, and even more activities are all possible options for you to choose from while we're here.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard and make friends with your seatmate en route to the next stop.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard and get your float on.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard and make friends with your seatmate en route to the next stop.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Free time to enjoy the La Fortuna and Arenal area.
Day 43: La Fortuna
Location: La Fortuna
Accommodation: Poshpacker Arenal
Accommodation Name: Poshpacker Arenal
Free time to enjoy the La Fortuna and Arenal area.
Choose your adventure! Canyoneering, hiking, caving, rafting, horseback riding, paddleboarding, kayaking, visiting a wildlife refuge, and even more activities are all possible options for you to choose from while we're here.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Free time to enjoy the La Fortuna and Arenal area.
Day 44: La Fortuna/San José
Location: La Fortuna
Accommodation: Hotel Lluvia de Oro
Accommodation Name: Hotel Lluvia de Oro
Journey through the mountains to the capital for a final night out.
Return to San José for our final night out.
San José has beautiful parks, museums and theatres. Enjoy the view of the surrounding lush mountains from the downtown streets.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Day 45: San José
Location: San José
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Simple hotels/hostels (40 nts, most multi-share), overnight bus (1 nt), local homestay (3 nts). -
Meals
3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners -
Your G for Good Moment: Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit, Oaxaca
Your G for Good Moment: San Antonio Women's Pottery Cooperative and Local Lunch, San Ignacio
Your G for Good Moment: Caribbean Gastronomic Experience "El Manglar", Lívingston
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Mexico City street food crawl
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Alebrijes Artisan Community visit
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Boat trip to Sumidero Canyon
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Stop at Roberto Barrios Waterfall for a swim
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Tour the Mayan ruins in Palenque
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A catamaran adventure into a gorgeous lagoon in Bacalar
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Chichen Itzá ruins guided tour
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Guided tour of Tikal
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Orientation walk in Antigua, Leon, and Granada
Accommodation
Simple hotels/hostels (40 nts, most multi-share), overnight bus (1 nt), local homestay (3 nts).
Transport
Local bus, private vehicle, overnight bus, boat, ferry, taxi, walking.
Meals Included
3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
Group Size
Max 18, avg 16.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Mode of Transport
Local bus, private vehicle, overnight bus, boat, ferry, taxi, walking.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Important Notes
Please note the use of drones is banned in Nicaragua.
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
About Accommodation
Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing and even (on rare occasions) dormitory-style rooms for the whole group. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Check out our Q&As
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What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit, Oaxaca
Your G for Good Moment: San Antonio Women's Pottery Cooperative and Local Lunch, San Ignacio
Your G for Good Moment: Caribbean Gastronomic Experience "El Manglar", Lívingston
Your G for Good Moment: Posadas Mayas Homestay, San Juan La Laguna
Your G for Good Moment: Puesta del Sol Community Guesthouse Stay, Isla de Ometepe
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Oaxaca Market Visit With CEO, Oaxaca
Your Discover Moment: San Cristobal de Las Casas - Free Time, San Cristóbal de Las Casas
Your Discover Moment: Playa del Carmen
Your Discover Moment: Caye Caulker
Your Discover Moment: Antigua Guatemala
Your Big Night Out Moment: Antigua Guatemala
Your Big Night Out Moment: Granada
Your Discover Moment: Granada
Your Discover Moment: Monteverde
Your Discover Moment: La Fortuna. Mexico City street food crawl. Alebrijes Artisan Community visit. Boat trip to Sumidero Canyon. Stop at Roberto Barrios Waterfall for a swim. Tour the Mayan ruins in Palenque. A catamaran adventure into a gorgeous lagoon in Bacalar. Chichen Itzá ruins guided tour. Guided tour of Tikal. Orientation walk in Antigua, Leon, and Granada. Beach time in Playa del Carmen and Caye Caulker, and El Tunco. Free time in Mexico City, Oaxaca, Palenque, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Playa del Carmen, Caye Caulker, and Antigua, Granada, Ometepe, Monteverde, and La Fortuna. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. -
Highlights
Visit an alebrijes workshop to see these colourful and iconic art pieces, Hop on a boat tour and cruise through Sumidero Canyon, Go for a dip in the Lagoon of the Seven Colours at Bacalar, Explore the Mayan ruins of Copán and Tikal
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Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. -
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. -
Important Notes
Please note the use of drones is banned in Nicaragua.
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Group Leader Description
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
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Group Size Notes
Max 18, avg 16.
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Meals Included
3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
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Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
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Transport
Local bus, private vehicle, overnight bus, boat, ferry, taxi, walking.
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Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
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Accommodation
Simple hotels/hostels (40 nts, most multi-share), overnight bus (1 nt), local homestay (3 nts).
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About Accommodation
Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing and even (on rare occasions) dormitory-style rooms for the whole group. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Travel Style. -
Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day. -
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
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Finishing Point Instructions
If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
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Packing List
Costa Rica Water Activities:
• Drybag (Will help keep cameras and essentials dry)
• Sport Sandals or Water Shoes (if you plan to do waterfall rappelling and/or rafting)
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Lake Atitlan Overnight:
• Overnight bag
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear -
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
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Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
Important Notice for UK Travelers: Visa Requirements for Honduras:
Starting August 15, 2024, UK passport holders will need a visa to enter Honduras, this visa must be obtained in person in London, UK. Please check the visa application process and ensure you obtain your visa before departure. For more details, visit the UK Government's Travel Advice for Honduras. -
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
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Money Exchange
It is uncommon to pay for optional activities, souvenirs and meals on credit card in the areas this trip visits, so be prepared with a combination of USD cash and local currency to pay for these on-trip costs.
That said, credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank prior to travelling. ATMs generally only dispense local currency, not USD. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
You will be able to exchange USD to local currency along the way , but please be advised that slightly torn notes and notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 50USD (or equivalent). Learn about local exchange rates at www.xe.com. -
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
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Optional Activities
Teotihuacán
- Teotihuacán Pyramids Visit (40USD per person)
Oaxaca
- Hierve el Agua Day Trip
- Cooking Class (65USD per person)
Monte Albán
- Monte Albán Tour (900MXN per person)
San Pablo Villa de Mitla
- Valley of Mitla Ruins Visit (950MXN per person)
San Cristóbal de Las Casas
- Lagunas de Montebello Visit (30USD per person)
- Indigenous Villages Tour (30USD per person)
Palenque
- Jungle Trail Hike (25USD per person)
Bacalar
- Kayaking (10-12USD per person)
- Fortress Exploration (10MXN per person)
Tulum
- Tulum Ruins Visit
Playa del Carmen
- Cenote Visit (40-60USD per person)
- Tequila Tasting (850-1100MXN per person)
- Coco Bongo Disco and Show (90USD per person)
Akumal
- Akumal Beach Visit (20USD per person)
Caye Caulker
- ***Bike with Purpose Rental*** (1-30USD per person)
- Hol Chan Marine Reserve Day Tour
- Sunset Sailing Boat Tour (60USD per person)
- Fishing (250-450USD per person)
Xunantunich
- Xunantunich Visit (50USD per person)
Caves Branch
- Cave Tubing (90USD per person)
Caracol
- Caracol Ruins Tour (115USD per person)
Barton Creek
- Barton Creek Cave Canoeing (110USD per person)
San Ignacio
- Horseback Riding (75USD per person)
Actun Tunichil Muknal
- Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Visit (110USD per person)
Antigua Guatemala
- Salsa Lesson (10USD per person)
- Cycling (30-50USD per person)
- ChocoMuseo Tour and Workshop (24USD per person)
- Finca Valhalla Visit (5-10USD per person)
- Elizabeth Bell Walking Tour (25USD per person)
- Acatenango Volcano Climb (50-89USD per person)
- Massage (30-60USD per person)
- Finca Filidelfia Coffee Tour (25USD per person)
- Pacaya Volcano Hike
Escuintla
- Pacaya Volcano Hike (75-79USD per person)
Panajachel
- Massage
Lago de Atitlán
- Kayaking
- Swimming
San Juan La Laguna
- Shopping
Copán
- Copán Ruins Guided Tour (25USD per person)
- Luna Jaguar Hot Springs Visit (50USD per person)
Playa El Tunco
- Surfing Lesson (60USD per person)
Granada
- Masaya Volcano Day Excursion (40USD per person)
- Mi Museo Cultural Museum (5USD per person)
- Hiking
- Laguna de Apoyo Visit (35USD per person)
Masaya
- Market Exploration
Isla de Ometepe
- Swimming (Free)
- Hike Concepcíon Volcano (45USD per person)
- Ometepe Island Cultural and Pre-Columbian Petroglyphs Tour (45USD per person)
- Ojo de Agua (Swimming Hole) (10-15USD per person)
Monteverde
- Sky Walk (55USD per person)
- Monteverde Horseback Riding (45USD per person)
- Monteverde Butterfly Garden Visit (20USD per person)
- Monteverde Coffee Plantation Tour (40USD per person)
- Santa Elena Cloud Forest Visit (25-50USD per person)
- Ziplining (60USD per person)
La Fortuna
- Costa Rica Adrenaline Bundle (149USD per person)
- La Fortuna Waterfall Swim (20USD per person)
- Horseback Riding (59USD per person)
- Birdwatching
- Lost Canyon Adventures Canyoning (90USD per group)
- Venado Caves Exploration (78USD per person)
Arenal
- Baldi Hot Springs (64USD per person)
- Mountain Biking (79USD per person)
- Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Tour (65USD per person)
Sarapiquí
- Sarapiqui River Rafting (99USD per person) -
Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. -
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling. -
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
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Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects. -
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
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Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com
ewsletters/
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit. -
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances
estrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport. -
Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.
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Max Pax
18
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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We look after you every step of the way.