Epic Mexico to Costa Rica

Intrepid Travel · 32 days

4.8

6 Reviews

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Duration

32 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

From cloud forests and volcanic peaks to sun-drenched island beaches and lost temples, Central America is bursting with natural wonders and converging cultures.

Highlights

Immerse yourself in Maya village life by meeting a local midwife, visiting a medicinal garden and taking a hands-on weaving and dyeing workshop, then enjoy Guatemalan hospitality with a home-cooked lunch in San Juan La Laguna.
Head to Tikal National Park within the dense Maya Forest to explore ancient Maya ruins – you might even opt to swing through the canopy on the epic zipline experience!
Have breakfast at Cafe de las Sonrisas – a local cafe run entirely by deaf people. The cafe's owner is aiming to bridge the gap and inspire other business owners to employ local people living with disabilities.
Splash into island life on Nicaragua’s Ometepe and Belize’s Caye Caulker – volcanoes, wildlife-rich rainforests, beaches, ancient rock carvings, laidback vibes, palm tree forests and a massive lake are all at your disposal.
Get a taste of six different countries in Central America on an epic Latin adventure that takes in the sights and offers a whole heap of optional activities too! You’ll choose your own adventure, maybe hiking, snorkelling, kayaking, swimming and dancing your way through your journey.

Trip Details

Duration

32 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, Public bus, Local bus, Taxi, Shared boat, Ferry

Guide Language

English

Starts

Playa del Carmen, Belize

Finishes

San Jose, Belize

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Playa del Carmen

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Mexico. Your adventure begins in Playa del Carmen – it’s recommended that you book a couple of extra days here to chill on the coast and explore at your own pace before the trip starts. You’ll have a welcome meeting with your local leader and fellow travellers at 6 pm at your hotel. If you arrive early, maybe go snorkelling or cycling, or simply stroll along the sandy playa (beach). Tonight, head out with your group leader for an included dinner at a local taquisa for a selection of delicious tacos – maybe order one with freshly caught fish! To improve your lingo, your group leader will run an informal Spanish lesson between bites, so that you can understand your burritos from your banos.

Included Activities:

Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson

Optional Activities:

Playa del Carmen - Bicycle Rental (per day) (260 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Tulum

Today, you’ll hop on a local bus and travel along the Caribbean coast to Tulum, where it's all about that laidback life on the white sands of the Yucatan Peninsula. Head out on a leader-led orientation walk around Tulum and maybe visit a Maya site that’s full of hidden details – the Temple of the Frescoes. See how this walled city of ruins clings to a clifftop overlooking the ocean. Grab some cool photos before heading down to the beach for an optional swim with the ruins towering over you. Tonight, maybe kick back and watch the waves roll in at a beachside bar.

Included Activities:

Tulum walking tour

Optional Activities:

Tulum - Archaeological Site (incl. entrance & national park fee - no guide) (451 MXN)
Tulum- Bike rental (250 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Tulum

With a free day to relax in Tulum, you can settle into the laidback vibe this coastal city has to offer. Maybe rent a bike and cruise around the area on two wheels. The town is heaving with cool cafes and restaurants with many vegetarian and vegan options. There are also plenty of places to relax the mind and the body through yoga and meditation. Maybe you’d like to explore Dos Ojos (two eyes) – one of the area's most famous cenotes (natural sinkholes), this pair of connected caves is an underwater world full of stalagmites and stalactites. Tonight, maybe you’ll explore the vibrant nightlife of Tulum with your fellow travellers – check out a DJ set at a beach club or enjoy a live band.

Optional Activities:

Tulum - Jungle Adventure (149 USD)
Tulum - Jungle Bike tour (two centotes) (125 USD)
Tulum - Maya Inland Expedition (164 USD)
Tulum - Sian Ka'an Adventure (150 USD)
Tulum - World Wonder Discovery (174 USD)
Tulum - Sian Ka'an Muyil (194 USD)
Tulum - Cenote Adventure (1500 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Caye Caulker

Say adios to Mexico and hello to Belize. You’ll have a long travel day today, so grab a window seat if you can or get stuck into a good book. This is also the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers a bit better! You’ll drive by local bus to the border, then carry on to Belize City. When you arrive, let the wind and the sea wake you right up after a big day of travel with a speedboat ride to the palm-fringed island of Caye Caulker.

Included Activities:

Caye Caulker - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Caye Caulker

Your time in Caye Caulker is all about taking it easy. It’s said that the pace of life is so slow here that it's almost backwards! If being underwater is your thing, maybe head out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the world's second-largest barrier reef. Snorkel among the colourful corals and see tropical fish, sharks and manta rays. You can also take daytrips to other nearby Cayes, as each island has its own charm. Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America, which makes chatting with locals much easier here.

Optional Activities:

Caye Caulker - Sunset Sailing (126 BZD)
Caye Caulker - Full-day Guided Snorkelling Trip (gear, guide and transport included) (230 BZD)
Caye Caulker - Full-day Guided Snorkelling Trip (gear, guide and transport included) USD (120 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Caye Caulker

Today is another free day to take up any other optional activities you like, or to simply pull up a towel and relax on the beach with a book, a cocktail or some friends. If you’ve already been snorkelling, maybe continue your marine exploration with a manatee tour. Get a bit more active with kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding or take the chill route and just relax on the beach. This island's also great for food and is famed for its lobster and tasty street food. How about some grilled shrimp and a rum and coke made with the local fire-water.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: San Ignacio

Leave island paradise behind today and return to Belize City by boat, before taking a local bus to San Ignacio via Belize’s capital, Belmopan. The local buses here are a little more basic than in Mexico, but this is a great opportunity to mix with Belizeans and get a feel for local life. Arrive in San Ignacio – a lively town that makes a solid base for exploring the surrounding fast-flowing rivers, waterfalls and Mayan ruins. After a leader-led orientation walk, your afternoon is free, so maybe visit the Chaa Creek butterfly garden to see the Belizean Blue butterfly or stop by a barbecue street food stall for a char-grilled chicken leg for dinner.

Included Activities:

San Ignacio - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: San Ignacio

There’s heaps to do in San Ignacio, so your free day today has endless possibilities. The cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal is a living museum of Maya relics – you can wade through its waters until you reach the remains of 1100-year-old calcified skeletons. You might take a day tour to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve to visit waterfalls and swimming holes or float down the Macal River in canoes or tubes. If you prefer a slower pace, maybe take a trip to Xunantunich – an impressive ancient Maya city. Getting to the site is half the fun, as you'll need to take a hand-cranked ferry down the river. Back in San Ignacio tonight, maybe walk down Burns Avenue and join the locals for a chat in one of the many restaurants or street food stalls.

Optional Activities:

San Ignacio - Butterfly Farm (incl. transport) (175 BZD)
San Ignacio - Cahal Pech Ruins entry (20 BZD)
San Ignacio - Iguana Conservation Project (entrance fee) (24 BZD)
San Ignacio - Xunantunich Ruins entry (20 BZD)
San Ignacio - Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (Incl. entry, guide, transport & lunch) (135 USD)
San Ignacio - Cave tubing (incl. entrance, guide & transport) (100 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Tikal

Today you’ll leave San Ignacio, cross the border and get dropped off at Tikal National Park – often referred to as the Maya Forest. Check in at your hotel before exploring the ruins of Tikal, which was one of the most powerful cities in ancient Maya civilisation. Pass through the lush jungle vegetation, and if you've got the energy, climb the tallest structure in Tikal, Temple IV, to take in the epic canopy views and grab some awesome photos. While you’re here, consider taking an optional guided tour to check out more of the area or – if you’re a thrill seeker – hop on a zipline and fly through the canopies like a toucan.

Included Activities:

Tikal National Park - Archaeological Site Tour (Entrance fee & Transport)

Optional Activities:

Tikal National Park - Guide for Ruins (per person, min 5 participants) (100 GTQ)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Rio Dulce

Head from the jungle to the lakeside town of Flores this morning. Here, there's time to grab some lunch and briefly explore the town. Then it's back to the private vehicle and you’re off to Rio Dulce! When you arrive, you’ll transfer to the hotel by boat. The easiest way to get back into town is also by boat, which can be organised through the hotel – or you can take a short walk through the jungle. Take some time to absorb the atmosphere of this laidback Caribbean town, which has a different vibe to the inland communities. A highlight for many guests is the Casa Natural – an open-air accommodation with screened-in rooms, shared bathrooms and a lounge looking out to the surrounding jungle.

Accommodation:

Lodge (Multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Rio Dulce

There are loads of activities to choose from in Rio Dulce today. Take a scenic boat trip down the river to Livingston – an easy-going town on the Caribbean coast that offers the unique experience of local Garifuna culture. Go boating on the lake, relax in the thermal hot springs or explore the nearby San Felipe de Lara fort in Livingston. You could also hike through the forest of the surrounding Chocon-Machacas natural reserve and spot the protected manatees of the area. Your local leader can always help with recommendations and bookings for activities over the course of your adventure.

Optional Activities:

Rio Dulce - Boat trip to Livingston (Price dependent on boat available & passengers) (263 GTQ)
Rio Dulce - Natural Hot Springs (entrance fee and transport) (210 GTQ)
Rio Dulce - San Felipe Fort (entrance fee) (85 GTQ)
Rio Dulce - Quirigua Ruins (entrance fee) (90 GTQ)

Accommodation:

Lodge (Multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Antigua

This morning you’ll travel to Antigua. When you arrive, maybe stroll around the city and tuck into some tasty tamales (a local dish served in a corn husk or banana leaf) or pepian (a spiced meat stew of chicken, beef or pork). You'll find the best value food in the square next to the La Merced Church.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Lake Atitlan

Travel by private vehicle to the famous market in Chichicastenango (nicknamed Chichi market). This is the most colourful market in the country. On Thursdays and Sundays, locals come from the surrounding villages to sell their wares and the streets come alive with stalls where you can stock up on cool trinkets. After visiting Chichi, head to Panajachel on Lake Atitlan, where you'll check in to your hotel. Tonight, you’ll join your group for dinner at a local pupuseria – an eatery specialising in round corn cakes called pupusas, which are stuffed with a range of fillings like cheese, beans or meat.

Included Activities:

Chichicastenango - Market Visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Lake Atitlan

This morning, make a trip to San Juan La Laguna to immerse yourself in Mayan village life. Visit a local midwife to learn about this traditional and sacred Maya art. Then visit the village's medicinal garden before a hands-on workshop where you'll learn about Mayan textile weaving and dyeing techniques. Hungry yet? Settle in for a home-cooked lunch with your hosts and chat about life in the village. This is the perfect way to really immerse yourself in local culture and get off the beaten track. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Panajachel and soak up the views of deep blue Lake Atitlan with a free evening.

Included Activities:

San Juan La Laguna - Weaving & Dyeing experience
San Juan La Laguna - Midwife home visit
San Juan La Laguna - Medicinal Garden

Optional Activities:

Panajachel - Bicycle rental (per day) (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Multishare) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Antigua

After breakfast, hit the road back to Antigua – four nearby volcanoes dominate the horizon, creating a unique landscape. Join your leader on a walk to orientate yourself around this World Heritage-listed city that’s paved with cobblestones and full of leafy town squares and ornate churches. There are hushed museums and lively indigenous markets to explore here, or you could cycle the countryside and chase views of mountain peaks and deep valleys. If you're into salsa dancing – or if you'd just like to learn some moves – Antigua is the place to be! Many dancing schools offer hourly lessons, so maybe sign up and get moving. Tonight, why not bring out your new moves and dance the night away.

Included Activities:

Antigua - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Antigua - Half Day Pacaya Volcano with lunch (115 USD)
Antigua - Acatenango Volcano Overnight Hike & Camp (202 USD)
Antigua - City Tour with lunch (70 USD)
Antigua - Half Day local towns, coffee and craft beer tour (95 USD)
Antigua - Chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo (30 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Antigua

You have a free day in Antigua today, so why not explore the vibrant buildings and curved archways further, or hike around the puffing volcanoes of Pacaya, Agua and Jumaytepeque. The number one stop for any chocoholic should be the ChocoMuseo, where you’ll get a history lesson and, more excitingly, participate in a chocolate-making workshop. For those more interested in the other famous Central American bean, you can go on a coffee tour, visit the plantations, do some tastings and even buy some for the road. Tonight, you’ll have a second meeting at 6 pm to meet the travellers joining you for the next leg of the trip. After, maybe head out with your new group and try some local dishes – you might opt for a comforting bowl of pepian (rich, meaty stew). Your local leader will have the best recommendations for local eats.

Optional Activities:

Antigua - Chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo (30 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Cerro Verde National Park

Today will be an early start as you journey across the Guatemalan border to your next destination – Cerro Verde, El Salvador. From rolling hills to rolling Rs, watch the world go by from the comfort of your private vehicle as you travel through lush volcanic landscapes and endless mountain terrain while learning the local lingo from your leader in an informal Spanish lesson. Arrive in Cerro Verde in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Included Activities:

Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson

Accommodation:

Camping (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Cerro Verde National Park

Today is all about fuelling up with local favourites and getting outdoors! Maybe visit Santa Ana’s volcanic crater for spectacular views of Lake Coatepeque, Juayua and Izalco Volcano. Or, instead of admiring the view from the crater, why not take a dip in Lake Coatepeque. There are many ways to keep busy in one of El Salvador's most beautiful national parks. El Salvador is also home to pupusas (a flatbread made from cornmeal and often stuffed with fillings like cheese, fried pork or refried beans), and tonight, you’ll watch a pupusa-making demonstration, then try some for yourself. Yum!

Included Activities:

Cerro Verde - Salvadoran Pupusa cooking demonstration

Optional Activities:

Cerro Verde- Coatepeque Lake – (transportation, entrance fee, hotsprings, guide) (50 USD)
Cerro Verde National Park - Santa Ana volcano hike (50 USD)

Accommodation:

Camping (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: San Miguel

This morning, you’ll continue south by private vehicle, passing through the capital of San Salvador on your way to San Miguel. Resting in the shadows of Chaparrastique, an active volcano sets the backdrop to this vibrant town. San Miguel has rebuilt itself into one of the country's largest and most populated cities since facing a severe earthquake in 1917. This afternoon, explore the city on foot, opt to take a swim at the Cuevas de Moncagua or find a good dinner spot to hole up with a few new travel buddies.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Amatillo to Leon

Say a quick hola and adios to Honduras as you cross through two borders to reach ‘the land of lakes and volcanoes’ – Nicaragua (or Nica, as it’s known locally). The drive will be well worth the ride as you’re welcomed into the artsy and sophisticated city of Leon. Why not refuel after your journey with some traditional Nicaraguan dishes like gallo pinto (this hearty combination of rice and beans is the national dish) or quesillo (corn tortillas filled with melted cheese, pickled onion and sour cream). Home to one of the oldest universities in Central America, Leon is considered a ‘college town’ and is known for its youthful, fun atmosphere and nightlife. Why not head out with the group tonight for an optional salsa class.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 21: Granada

You’ll join your leader on an orientation walk around Leon this morning. Then, take some time to explore on your own, maybe checking out the Basilica de la Asuncion – Central America’s largest cathedral. Or, stop by the Museo Historico de la Revolucion for an insight into revolutionaries who fought hard for the freedom of their country. You might like to go volcano sandboarding (this is the only place in the world where you can do it) in the dunes. If you’re feeling peckish, why not fill up on a traditional breakfast of scrambled eggs and gallo pinto before heading to Granada – founded in 1524 and scattered with colourful architecture, this city sits on the banks of Lake Nicaragua and is surrounded by active volcanoes.

Included Activities:

Leon - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Leon - Volcano Sand Boarding (requires a minimum of 3 travellers to operate) (55 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 22: Granada

This morning, you’ll have breakfast with your group at Cafe de las Sonrisas – a local cafe run entirely by deaf people. The cafe's owner is aiming to bridge the gap and inspire other business owners to employ local people living with disabilities. Then, you’re free to explore Granada – maybe you’d like to take a guided tour of the city, visit the markets or wander the cobblestone streets, snapping photos of the colourful buildings. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, opt to hire a kayak and paddle around the islets of Lake Nicaragua, rent a bike and ride to Laguna De Apoyo (a 200-year-old lake set into a lush forest crater), or hike through the flora and fauna along the Mombacho Volcano Crater Trail. For a cultural insight into the heritage of the Nicaraguan people, the city of Masaya (or the ‘City of Flowers’) offers a variety of folkloric entertainment, from marimba music to street theatre. Tonight, maybe spend your evening along Calle la Calzada, where you can grab a drink at one of the many outdoor bars and watch the wandering performers bring the street to life.

Included Activities:

Granada - Breakfast at El Cafe de las Sonrisas

Optional Activities:

Granada - Laguna Apoyo swimming and kayaking tour (requires a minimum of 3 travellers to operate) (40 USD)
Granada - Kayak rental (per day) (913 NIO)
Granada - Masaya Volcano at night (Viewpoint for the Lava Lake at Santiago Crater) (65 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 23: Ometepe Island

This morning, travel by local bus to Rivas, where you'll transfer to San Jorge ferry port by taxi. Catch a ferry across Lake Nicaragua (the largest in Central America and the tenth largest freshwater lake in the world) to the island of Ometepe and head to your hotel. The Hourglass-shaped island was formed by two volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua (Ometepe literally means two volcanoes in the Nahuatl language), and the deep jungle is home to wildlife such as Capuchin monkeys and parrots. Sit on the shore and watch fishermen return from a long day on the water with their catch or hike to a nearby waterfall.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 24: Ometepe Island

Take advantage of a free day in this bucket list location to discover the island at your own pace. Maybe hike to the summit of Maderas volcano – but be warned, at 1394 m above sea level, this trek is no walk in the park. You might prefer to splash around in the natural springs, soak up the sun on the shore or check out the island's petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings). If you like watermelon, banana and citrus fruits, this is the place for you as you’ll have loads of delicious fresh fruit to feast on. Tonight, head to Los Ramos – an indigenous community in the middle of the island’s volcanoes – for a cooking class. Learn traditional techniques used to make Nicaraguan dishes like nacatamales (a dough-based snack often filled with meat and steamed in banana leaves) before sitting down for a meal together.

Included Activities:

Los Ramos Community - Cooking Class

Optional Activities:

Ometepe - Ojo de Agua natural spring (entrance fee) (25 USD)
Ometepe - Petroglyphs (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 25: San Juan del Sur

Today you’ll journey by ferry and public bus to San Juan del Sur – a laidback surf town on Nicaragua’s southwest coast. Though the beach that lines the town’s horseshoe bay isn’t particularly great for swimming, you don’t need to travel far to find golden beaches with year-round waves. You’ll have some free time today to acquaint yourself with this fun town – tonight, maybe head out for dinner with your group.

Accommodation:

Hostel (Multishare with shared facilties) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 26: San Juan del Sur

Enjoy a free day exploring San Juan del Sur’s colourful coastal scenery. You might like to head south to La Flor Beach Reserve, where it’s possible to see olive ridley, hawksbill, leatherback and green sea turtles nesting between July and November. A massive statue of Christ (the largest in Central America) sits atop a cliff above the bay, so why not hike to the top for spectacular views of the town and the Pacific. In the evening, the city boasts a variety of great bars and restaurants where you can share a meal or a few drinks with the group.

Optional Activities:

San Juan del Sur - La Flor Beach Reserve (6 USD)

Accommodation:

Hostel (Multishare with shared facilties) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 27: Monteverde

Say adios to Nicaragua and continue your journey south to Costa Rica this morning. Take a bus to the border and then travel by private vehicle to Monteverde. Monteverde was founded as an agricultural community in 1951 by a group of North American Quakers – these settlers also established a small wildlife sanctuary, which has since grown into the internationally renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve. Cloud forests are similar to rainforests, but instead, draw their water from a semi-permanent cloud covering the region. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the misty, panoramic views surrounding you – this is truly a nature lover's paradise! More than 2000 plant species, 320 bird species and 100 mammal species call Montverde home – be sure to keep an eye out for the resplendent quetzal, one of the most elusive birds in the world.

Included Activities:

Monteverde - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 28: Monteverde

Today you have a free day to discover the reserve. Monteverde is not for the faint-hearted, so bring your sense of adventure and a solid pair of shoes. Maybe hike through the cloud forest, check out the area by mountain bike or fly over the canopy on a zip-line tour. Another way to see the forest from above is to take a tour along a series of hanging bridges suspended 40 m above the jungle. You can explore the park on your own or arrange for a local guide to accompany you. The guides are very knowledgeable and happy to engage in conversation. To see some wildlife up close, visit the butterfly and insect gardens. There are also several cooperatives worth visiting in the local communities.

Optional Activities:

Monteverde - Suspension bridges tour (55 USD)
Monteverde - Canopy Zip Lining (Entrance, Equipment & Transport) (101 USD)
Monteverde - Coffee & Chocolate tour (47 USD)
Monteverde - Cloud Forest Night Walk (45 USD)
Monteverde - Butterfly Garden and Insects Farm (entrance fee) (22 USD)
Monteverde - Cloud Forest Entrance (26 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 29: La Fortuna

Continue your journey through Costa Rica and take the scenic route to La Fortuna. Travel by shared minibus to Lake Arenal, then cross by boat. On a clear day, you'll see fantastic views of the surrounding area. On the other side of the lake, reboard the minibus and continue to your destination. La Fortuna is a small town just a few minutes from Costa Rica's most famous volcano – Arenal. While you're here, you might like to take some photos of the volcano reflected in the lake.

Optional Activities:

Monteverde - Canopy Zip Lining (Entrance, Equipment & Transport) (101 USD)
Monteverde - Cloud Forest Entrance (26 USD)
La Fortuna - Ecotermales Hot Springs (entrance fee) (49 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 30: La Fortuna

There are plenty of optional activities to participate in today. Maybe take a guided nature hike through the lush forest surrounding Arenal Volcano, keeping an eye out for rare plants and animals, or opt to see the forest from a series of hanging bridges. Check out the 70 m high La Fortuna waterfall or get wet with some water sports on the lake, like stand-up paddle boarding. The volcano’s inner workings also mean that the area is home to several thermal hot springs – an ideal way to relax in the middle of nature. Alternatively, a boat safari down the Celeste River offers the opportunity to see lizards, crocodiles and tropical birds in their natural habitat.

Included Activities:

La Fortuna - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

La Fortuna - La Fortuna Waterfall (Entrance only) (25 USD)
La Fortuna - Arenal Volcano Base Hike (97 USD)
La Fortuna- Caño Negro boat tour (94 USD)
La Fortuna - Stand up paddle board (75 USD)
La Fortuna - Ecotermales Hot Springs (entrance fee) (49 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 31: San Jose

This morning, you’ll take a local bus to Costa Rica's capital – San Jose. Situated in the fertile Central Valley and home to over half the country's population, San Jose has lively markets, intriguing museums and a dynamic atmosphere. A good place to start your exploration is the central plaza. The Gold Museum also has a collection of over 1500 pieces of indigenous gold art. If you're in the mood for some shopping, head to the Mercado Municipal de Artesanias or the city's Central Market, where you can buy anything from handicrafts to seafood. This afternoon, you might want to rejoin your group for a final farewell dinner (or a guaro sour) and say muchas gracias to your Central American journey.

Included Activities:

San Jose - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

San Jose - National Museum (entrance fee) (Closed Sunday & Monday) (11 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 32: San Jose

Today, there are no activities planned and your Central American adventure comes to an end. As there's a lot to see and do in and around San Jose, it’s recommended you stay here for a few days to make the most of the city. If you'd like to extend your visit, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $4,295

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 32 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

From cloud forests and volcanic peaks to sun-drenched island beaches and lost temples, Central America is bursting with natural wonders and converging cultures.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 30 Jun 2026

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Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Therese

Traveled, November 2032

12/09/2023

Fantastic, fast-paced trip that allows you to explore the beautiful nature and culture of Central America. Would 100% recommend

4.5

Imogen

Traveled, April 2023

05/22/2023

This was definitely a trip of a lifetime. Choko our guide was absolutely incredible - knowledgeable, friendly and funny! Felt safe and had a great time at every destination - will definitely be recommending to my friends

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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