Transport

Bus, Boat

Optional

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for direct with the supplier and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract. Antigua - Coffee Finca - US$ 25; Jade workshop US$48 Copan - Macaw mountain US$ 15, Horse riding US$ 25, Hot Springs - USD$ 35 Suchitoto - Indigo Dye Museum US$ 25; Lake Suchitlan US$ 25 (based on 4 people), Cookery classes USD$ 12 per person (minimum 5 people) Leon - Las Penitas and Juan Venado Reserve US$ 45; Iguana farm US$ 25; Cerro Negro Hike US$ 30 Granada - Boat to Las Isletas US$ 25 based on 4 sharing, Kayak US$ 35, Canopy/zip lining US$ 40 San Juan del Sur - Surf lessons US$ 35hr. Board hire US$ 10 per half day Cano Negro - Boat trip US$ 30 pp; Night walk US$ 20pp (minimum 6 people) Pozo Azul - Nature walk US$ 27, Canopy/zip lining US$ 56, Rafting US$ 58 Snake garden US$ 30

Meals

A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options 15 Breakfasts

Accommodation

1 nights standard camping 4 nights premium hotel 2 nights simple hotel 8 nights standard hotel

Others

All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and have provided your international flight information.

Guide

Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader’s ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.

Not included:

Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included

Others

Any visa costs, spending money and tips are not included in the trip price. You can also book extra nights’ accommodation at the beginning and end of the trip and the cost of this accommodation along with any transfers would be quoted separately.

Flights

International flights not included in the tour cost

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Join Tour Antigua (Guatemala)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Join Tour Antigua (Guatemala)

Join trip in Antigua Guatemala, the graceful colonial city that sits just next door to the country’s capital Guatemala City. Set in a beautiful valley between the volcanoes of Agua, Fuego and Acatenango, its cobbled streets and pastel-coloured buildings make it one of the most charming and picturesque cities in Central America. Despite the damage caused by a series of earthquakes and floods over the centuries, Antigua’s colonial heritage has seen it designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to the number of evening flights into the international airport, your Leader plans to do the welcome meeting on the morning of day two, and will leave a message in reception with details on timings and everything else that you’ll need for the day. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Antigua at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you’ll need to arrive into La Aurora International Airport (GUA). The drive between the airport and our hotel is only 40km but can take between 1.5 and 4 hours depending on the traffic and the time of day. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, we recommend a gentle stroll around the compact centre of town, famed for its well-preserved Spanish Mudejar-influenced architecture.
Day 2 Day 2: Walking Tour Of Antigua, Free Afternoon To Explore
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Walking Tour Of Antigua, Free Afternoon To Explore

This morning’s walking tour takes us to some of the spectacular colonial churches for which the city is famed, including those of San Francisco, Santa Clara, La Merced and Las Capuchinas. Some of the churches have museums and ruins attached which you can choose to enter later in the afternoon. The city is also famous for its jade, not only green but the rarer black and lilac, and we will visit a museum explaining more about this industry. This afternoon has been left free for you to continue exploring at your own pace. You may choose to do a short hike up Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views of the city, or enjoy a bit of bargain hunting in what is regarded as one of the best cities for shopping in Central America. There is everything here, from high-end jewellery to street vendors selling locally-produced crafts and textiles. Alternatively, try the choco-museum for a Mayan hot chocolate, which comes with pure chocolate, hot milk, honey and chili powder to mix to your personal taste.
Day 3 Day 3: Travel To Lake Atitlan Via Iximche Archaeological Site
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Travel To Lake Atitlan Via Iximche Archaeological Site

We will leave Antigua this morning for Lake Atitlan. Our first stop on route is the fascinating archaeological site of Iximche. We will stop here for a two-hour guided tour, where we will learn all about the history of this site which dates back to the 15th century. Our final stop of the day is Santa Catarina Palopo, a small village on the shores of Lake Atitlan where we will be staying for the next two nights. There are magnificent views of the impressive volcanic peaks of Atitlan (3537m), San Pedro (3020m) and Toliman (3158m) towering over the lakeside, and the lake’s fertile shores are sprinkled with small communities of farmers and fishermen who still uphold the traditions of their Maya ancestors.
Day 4 Day 4: Visit To Chichicastenango Market And Pascual Abaj Shrine
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Visit To Chichicastenango Market And Pascual Abaj Shrine

This morning we will head to the bustling town of Chichicastenango, the ’sacred town’ of the indigenous Quiche. Steeped in Maya culture, the town is famed for its market, where you can buy everything, from chickens and copal, to pigs and pottery. The best way to enjoy the market is to throw yourself into the melee and haggle with the traders, or escape to the beautifully colourful cemetery located just a short walk from the market. It is also the perfect place to pick up souvenirs of your visit. We will continue our journey making another stop at the colourful local market of Solola where we can get a sense of Guatemalan daily life, as well as Pascual Abaj shrine- where traditional Maya shamans regularly perform ceremonies.
Day 5 Day 5: Boat Trip On Atitlan Lake; Travel To Guatemala City
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Boat Trip On Atitlan Lake; Travel To Guatemala City

This morning, we head out by boat to explore two of the many Mayan villages surrounding the lake. Santiago Atitlan lies at the base of the volcanic peaks of Toliman and Atitlan, and is home to the Tzutujil Maya people. The Tzutujil can trace their ancestry back to the post-classic period of the Maya (around 900-1500 AD). They still wear a traditional form of dress, with the women in particular sporting colourful blouses with embroidered geometric and bird designs. This is a busy village with lots of visitors and locals going about their business. Our second stop, on our return to Panajachel, is to the quieter island of San Antonio and the textile and ceramic co-operatives found there. This afternoon, we say goodbye to Lake Atitlan and travel to Guatemala City, a journey of around 4 hours.
Day 6 Day 6: Pass Into El Salvador; Travel To Suchitoto Via The ’Flower Route’
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Pass Into El Salvador; Travel To Suchitoto Via The ’Flower Route’

Today, we pass into into into El Salvador, traveling along La Ruta de las Flores- one of the most beautiful regions in El Salvador. Located in the western highlands, this scenic route is known for its breathtaking landscapes. The road winds through rolling green hills and coffee plantations, connecting the vibrant, picturesque towns that dot the countryside. In spring, the route is lined with a kaleidoscope of blooming flowers, giving La Ruta de las Flores its name. Volcanoes loom in the distance, adding a dramatic backdrop to the journey. Along the way, we’ll visit the mountain town of Concepción de Ataco, famous for its colorful streets, and stop in Apaneca, a historic town known for its local markets and mountainous surroundings. We plan to reach Suchitoto by early evening. Please note- crossing borders can be quite a slow process, so ensure you have a book and snacks with you to keep you going.
Day 7 Day 7: Free Morning In Suchitoto; Travel To La Union In Afternoon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Free Morning In Suchitoto; Travel To La Union In Afternoon

The morning has been left free for you to spend as you wish. You may take a boat trip out onto the lake, where over 200 bird species have been recorded, including hawks and falcons. This afternoon, our destination is the port town of La Union, around a 3.5 hour drive. On arrival, we will head out to Conchagua town for a walk and for an optional group dinner. The country’s national dish is pupusas - these delicious circles of corn dough are stuffed with a mixture of black beans, vegetables, cheese, and meats - delicious!
Day 8 Day 8: Journey To Nicaragua Via The Gulf Of Fonseca
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Journey To Nicaragua Via The Gulf Of Fonseca

We start our day by driving to the port, before hopping on the ferry across the Gulf of Fonseca. On the journey, you can see the islands of three countries: El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. We expect the ferry to take around 2 hours. Our destination is the port town of Potosi. From Potosi, its a 2.5 hour drive to Leon. As the country’s capital for 200 years, Leon is still considered the intellectual centre of Nicaragua, and was at the heart of the revolutionary years of 1978 to 1989. Lying in the shadow of seven volcanoes, its old buildings and massive cathedral contribute to the elegant atmosphere of a city that seems almost to have been trapped in time. Today again we remind you to please be patient - crossing borders can be quite a slow process, so ensure you have a book and snacks with you to keep you going.
Day 9 Day 9: Free Day; Optional Hike To Cerro Negro Volcano
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Free Day; Optional Hike To Cerro Negro Volcano

After yesterday’s long travel day, today has been left free to explore this colonial gem at your own pace. Alternatively, you may choose to enjoy one of the optional excursions available in the area. One option is a hike on the nearby Cerro Negro Volcano - one of the most active volcanoes in Nicaragua. The hike takes approximately 1.5hrs at a moderate pace, and there are stunning views across to the Pacific ocean as well as the surrounding countryside. The fun is in bouncing down the volcano, as we run/jump/walk down through the scree. For something less exertive, Las Penitas Beach is a great place to relax for the day, whilst a visit to San Juan Venado Mangrove Reserve provides the opportunity to spot wildlife including crocodiles, caiman and iguanas.
Day 10 Day 10: Travel To Granada; City Tour And Free Afternoon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Travel To Granada; City Tour And Free Afternoon

This morning we head off on a three-hour drive to the colonial city of Granada. Atmospheric Granada is situated at the foot of Mombacho Volcano on the north-west shore of Lake Nicaragua. It was the first colonial city in Nicaragua, founded in 1524 by the conquistador Hernandez de Cordoba. Its magnificent setting, set off by baroque and renaissance buildings, is a visual delight and a superb location for our next two nights’ accommodation. On arrival, our city tour will take in highlights such as the Parque Central, the monument to the War of Independence, the plaza and the San Francisco Convent. We also aim to visit the Casa des Tres Mundos and the neoclassical Bishop’s Palace. The afternoon is at your leisure. Choose to walk down to the central plaza, marvel at the striking yellow cathedral and relax in one of the many restaurants or cafes.
Day 11 Day 11: Free Morning For Optional Activities; Afternoon Trip To Masaya Market And Masaya Volcano
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Free Morning For Optional Activities; Afternoon Trip To Masaya Market And Masaya Volcano

This morning is left free. A recommended optional activity is a boat trip through Las Isletas on Lake Nicaragua. This is a great way to explore Lake Cocibolca, also known as Lake Nicaragua. Situated at the foot of the impressive Mombacho Volcano, the area we visit consists of around 360 small volcanic islands which were formed when the Mombacho Volcano erupted about 20,000 years ago. These small islands are inhabited by families who make their living from fishing, while other islands are host to extravagant villas owned by Nicaragua’s rich and famous. Along the way, the tour guide will explain a lot about the many birds that can be seen here as well as recalling the history of the area. This afternoon we will head to Masaya’s famous and diverse artisan market, where we can find many products quite unique to Nicaragua. From there, we continue to one of Nicaragua’s most stunning natural highlights, the Masaya Volcano National Park, which was the country’s first national reserve and is home to two volcanoes and five craters. All being well, we will view the simply astounding geothermal activity at the Santiago Crater.
Day 12 Day 12: Cross The Border To Costa Rica. Beach Time At Bahia Salinas
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Cross The Border To Costa Rica. Beach Time At Bahia Salinas

This morning we wave goodbye to Nicaragua and head to our final country on this journey - Costa Rica! We have a two-hour drive to the border where we will be changing vehicles once through into Costa Rica. We then have a one-hour drive to the coastal haven of Bahia Salinas. You will be into the swing of things with the border crossings by now, so remember your patience and a good book! On arrival into Bahia de Salinas we have the afternoon free to enjoy the beautiful beach and coastline.
Day 13 Day 13: Travel To Rincon De La Vieja. Night Walk In Search Of Wildlife
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Travel To Rincon De La Vieja. Night Walk In Search Of Wildlife

Today we take a two-hour drive to the beautiful Rincon de la Vieja where we will stay for the next two nights. Our accommodation is surrounded by nature and is the perfect place for wildlife spotting. When darkness falls, we will embark on a night walk around the paths of the lodge in search of wildlife.
Day 14 Day 14: Guided Morning Walk In The National Park. Free Afternoon
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Guided Morning Walk In The National Park. Free Afternoon

This morning we will head into the Rincon de la Vieja National Park for a two-hour walk. The National Park has room for two volcanoes, of which one is still active, surrounded by a lush area of lagoons and craters, punctuated with steaming vents and pools of boiling mud. The changing elevation ranges of the park have resulted in an area of diverse habitats that house a variety of vegetation and wildlife. We’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife in the forest, from a variety of bird species (toucans, blue-crowned motmots and flycatchers among many others), as well as spider monkeys, coatis or sloths if we’re lucky. This afternoon is left free for optional activities.
Day 15 Day 15: Morning Free. In The Afternoon Head To The Capital, San Jose
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Morning Free. In The Afternoon Head To The Capital, San Jose

This morning has been left free to enjoy the optional excursions in the area. We then make the five-hour drive to the capital of San Jose.
Day 16 Day 16: Tour Ends San Jose
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Tour Ends San Jose

The trip ends this morning at our hotel in San Jose. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like an airport transfer today, you’ll need to depart from Juan Santamaria International Airport (airport code: SJO), approximately a 30 minute drive from our hotel.

+13

16 days tour

Central American Highlights

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Central American Highlights

Day 1: Join Tour Antigua (Guatemala)

Day 2: Walking Tour Of Antigua, Free Afternoon To Explore

Day 3: Travel To Lake Atitlan Via Iximche Archaeological Site

Day 4: Visit To Chichicastenango Market And Pascual Abaj Shrine

Day 5: Boat Trip On Atitlan Lake; Travel To Guatemala City

Day 6: Pass Into El Salvador; Travel To Suchitoto Via The ’Flower Route’

Day 7: Free Morning In Suchitoto; Travel To La Union In Afternoon

Day 8: Journey To Nicaragua Via The Gulf Of Fonseca

Day 9: Free Day; Optional Hike To Cerro Negro Volcano

Day 10: Travel To Granada; City Tour And Free Afternoon

Day 11: Free Morning For Optional Activities; Afternoon Trip To Masaya Market And Masaya Volcano

Day 12: Cross The Border To Costa Rica. Beach Time At Bahia Salinas

Day 13: Travel To Rincon De La Vieja. Night Walk In Search Of Wildlife

Day 14: Guided Morning Walk In The National Park. Free Afternoon

Day 15: Morning Free. In The Afternoon Head To The Capital, San Jose

Day 16: Tour Ends San Jose

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