Central America Encompassed
Trip Details
Prepare for a unique adventure packed full of cosmopolitan cities, breathtaking ruins, idyllic beaches and incredible natural beauty as you journey from the madness of Mexico City, through the Yucatan Peninsula, to the colour of colonial Antigua. Discover the spicy flavours of Oaxaca, admire Palenque´s stunning ruins, swim in the turquoise waters off Caye Caulker and arrive at volcano-rimmed Antigua. Join us as we discover places of astounding beauty, visit vibrant and colourful cities, explore ancient ruins and uncover the hidden gems of Central America along the way.
Itinerary
Days 1-2 Mexico City
Modern meets ancient in the world's fastest growing urban centre. Why not take the subway through an old temple in chaotic Mexico City?
Days 3-4 Puebla
Enjoy the Spanish vibe in this 'City of Angels', a place that blends the colonial past with modern development. There are many well-kept churches and buildings to admire.
Days 5-7 Oaxaca
Watch the sunset over the impressive skyline and try traditional mole, stuffed chillies, chocolate-coated grasshopers or hit the mezcal, a distilled liquor made from the agave plant, for a real taste of Mexico.
Days 8-9 San Cristobal de las Casas
Worlds away from the lowland cities, here you can experience a blend of rich indigenous culture and bohemian flair.
Days 10-11 Palenque
Why not climb the Mayan temples of Palenque for stunning jungle views?
Days 12-13 Merida
Come face-to-face with the rain god Chac at an optional visit to the ruins of Uxmal.
Days 14-15 Chichen Itza/Playa del Carmen
Take the option of exploring the pyramids of Chichen Itza, or cool off with a refreshing swim and an icy margarita.
Days 16-17 Tulum
Chill out on Tulum's white sand beaches, or head to the nearby ruins to watch the sunset over these impressive beachside structures.
Days 18-19 Caye Caulker
It's impossible not to relax in this Rastafarian paradise. Swim in the marine park watching manta rays and barracuda or just chill-out beachside.
Days 20-21 San Ignacio
Walk among the butterflies in specially-made gardens, head off on a tubing adventure or take a hand-cranked ferry to the ruins of Xunantunich.
Days 22-23 Flores/Tikal
Make like a local and take to the lake in a dug-out canoe, or just fall into the easy-going pace of life. There's free time to visit the highest Mayan structure in the world at Tikal.
Days 24-25 Rio Dulce
Jump in a lancha and head up river to visit nearby hot springs, or hike through the jungle-strewn trails of nearby nature reserves.
Day 26 Antigua
Take an evening stroll along this city's heritage-listed streets or chill out with the locals in Central Park.
Days 27-28 San Jorge La Laguna/Chichicastenango
Find a bargain at the famous Chichicastenango markets, explore Lake Atitlan or take off on a mountain bike to explore the surrounding landscape.
Days 29-31 Antigua
End a fantastic adventure with an optional day trip to the steaming Pacaya Volcano.