Original
Explorer
Central American Journey
4.8
Excellent
326 reviews
17 days
Start
Antigua, Guatemala
Finish
San Jose, Costa Rica
Trip Code
QVRJ
Min Age
15
Trip Size
1 - 16
Physical Rating
Meals
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Transport
Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi, Shared boat
Accommodation
Hotel (16 nights)
From £1,804(17 days)
Trip Informations
Why you’ll love this trip
Soak in the dramatic and varied landscapes of lush Central America. If you’re thinking active volcanoes, historic cities and emerald jungles – this trip has you covered. Nature lovers rejoice!
Wind your way through the otherworldly ruins of Copan in Honduras, famous for the numerous elaborate stelae. These Maya ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a perfect spot for some great pics.
Take part in an indigo-dying demonstration in Suchitoto (the best place to produce indigo in the world) at a local enterprise that supports working mothers in the community.
Join a local guide (with specialist spotting equipment) on a walk through the steamy cloud forests of Monteverde, exploring the lush canopies and seeing unique Central American wildlife in this natural haven.
Try out your Nicaragua sign language skills when you order breakfast at an atmospheric cafe housed in a historic building managed and staffed by members of the local deaf community.
Is this trip right for you?
Compared to the other countries you visit on this trip, Costa Rica can sometimes seem expensive. Expect to pay more than you would in other Central American countries for a lot of things.
You cover heaps of ground on this trip, with several border crossings and long travel days. This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. Although this can be tiresome, it’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.
Central America is generally hot and humid year-round. At nighttime and in locations at higher elevations it can get chilly. Protect yourself from the sun, bring light clothing you can layer and a waterproof jacket, and stay hydrated. Air conditioning may not always be available in your rooms. Occasionally, properties may require an additional charge for air conditioning.
This trip can involve a lot of walking. Please ensure you bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes. To make the most of the trip, it's best if you have at least a moderate level of fitness.
There will be times when you have to walk with your luggage, and for this reason, we recommend packing light and using a backpack or something easy to carry.
If you are traveling with a UK passport, a visa is now required to enter Honduras. Please ensure you check the Important Notes and Essential Trip Information for more details.
Compared to the other countries you visit on this trip, Costa Rica can sometimes seem expensive. Expect to pay more than you would in other Central American countries for a lot of things.
You cover heaps of ground on this trip, with several border crossings and long travel days. This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. Although this can be tiresome, it’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.
Central America is generally hot and humid year-round. At nighttime and in locations at higher elevations it can get chilly. Protect yourself from the sun, bring light clothing you can layer and a waterproof jacket, and stay hydrated. Air conditioning may not always be available in your rooms. Occasionally, properties may require an additional charge for air conditioning.
This trip can involve a lot of walking. Please ensure you bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes. To make the most of the trip, it's best if you have at least a moderate level of fitness.
There will be times when you have to walk with your luggage, and for this reason, we recommend packing light and using a backpack or something easy to carry.
If you are traveling with a UK passport, a visa is now required to enter Honduras. Please ensure you check the Important Notes and Essential Trip Information for more details.
Itinerary
See all the incredible sights of five Central American icons
Tropical cloud forests alive with jungle melodies and native wildlife, vast freshwater lakes and active volcanoes, historic cities and shared moments with locals – this pocket of Central America is a slice of paradise. On this 17-day Central American journey, take in all the must-visit spots like Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. You’ll spot colourful birds and see how indigo dying works in Suchitoto, explore the World Heritage-listed ruins of Copan, stand in the shadow of mighty Arenal Volcano and spot sloths among the canopy of Monteverde. This adventure is perfect for those who like to experience a destination 'la forma natural' (the natural way).
Inclusions
Meals
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Transport
Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi, Shared boat
Accommodation
Hotel (16 nights)
Included activities
Copan - Guided visit to Archaeological site
Suchitoto - Salvadoran Pupusa cooking demonstration
Suchitoto - Leader led orientation walk
Suchitoto - Indigo Dyeing Demonstration
Leon - Leader led orientation walk
Masaya - Town & Market Visit
Granada - La Laguna de Apoyo Viewpoint
Granada - Breakfast at El Cafe de las Sonrisas
Monteverde - Leader-led orientation walk
Monteverde - Hands-on breakfast
La Fortuna - Leader led orientation walk
Monteverde - Cloud Forest Reserve with a local guide
San Jose - Leader-led orientation walk
La Fortuna - Cooking Class
Optional activities
Antigua - Salsa-dance Lesson (per hour) - GTQ150
Antigua - Chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo - USD30
Copan - Natural Hot Springs & Dinner - USD50
Suchitoto - Town tour (requires a minimum of 4 travellers to operate) - USD35
Suchitoto - War historic hike (Moderate hike - 2km) at Cinquera Forest (requires a minimum of 5 travellers to operate) - USD55
Suchitoto - Sunrise Kayaking on Lake Suchitlan (requires a minimum of 4 travelers to operate) - USD50
Leon - Volcano Sand Boarding (requires a minimum of 3 travellers to operate) - USD55
Leon - Leon Art Center - USD4
Granada - Mombacho Volcano hike (requires a minimum of 4 travellers to operate) - USD60
Granada - Granada islets boat tour (requires a minimum of 3 travellers to operate) - USD25
Granada - Laguna Apoyo swimming and kayaking tour (requires a minimum of 3 travellers to operate) - USD40
Monteverde - Suspension bridges tour - USD55
Monteverde - Canopy Zip Lining (Entrance, Equipment & Transport) - USD101
Monteverde - Coffee & Chocolate tour - USD47
Monteverde - Butterfly Garden and Insects Farm (entrance fee) - USD22
Monteverde - Frog pond - USD20
Monteverde - Orchid gardens - USD18
Monteverde - Cloud Forest Night Walk - USD45
Monteverde - Children's Forest - USD25
La Fortuna - Arenal hanging bridges (inc entrance fee, guide and shared transport) - USD75
La Fortuna - La Fortuna Waterfall (Entrance only) - USD25
La Fortuna - Arenal Volcano Base Hike - USD97
La Fortuna- Caño Negro boat tour - USD94
La Fortuna - Stand up paddle board - USD75
La Fortuna - Baldi Hot Springs (entrance fee) - USD66
San Jose - San Jose By Night: Food and Culture - Urban Adventures - USD74
San Jose - National Museum (entrance fee) (Closed Sunday & Monday) - USD11
San Jose - San Jose Bites and Sights Tour - Urban Adventures - USD49
Dates and availability
Starting
Ending
Remaining
Prices From
















Important notes
1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
2. Please be careful when booking flights to Antigua; make sure you fly into Guatemala City Airport [GUA]. Guatemala City Airport is the closest airport to Antigua. Please do not book flights to Antigua & Barbuda Airport [ANU] as this is an island in the Caribbean.
3. Please be careful when booking flights from San Jose; make sure you fly out of Juan Santamaría International Airport [SJO]. Please do not book flights from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport [SJC] as this is located in California, United States.
4. As per updated Nicaragua entry requirements, customers are currently required to supply a copy of their passport front page to their booking agent no later than 15 days prior to departure.
5. Should you have any questions or need assistance with the Honduras pre-registration, your leader will be able to assist on Day 1 of your tour. For more information, visit the ‘Passports, visas and entry requirements’ section of the ‘Essential Trip Information.
6. IMPORTANT FOR UK PASSPORT HOLDERS: You must obtain a multiple entry visa to Honduras before traveling on this trip. Due to reported delays in securing embassy appointments, we recommend checking appointment availability with the Honduran Embassy before confirming your travel plans. See the Passports, visas and entry requirements section in your Essential Trip Information for details.
7. Under Honduran law, travelers under age 21 who are traveling unaccompanied or with only one parent must have written, notarized permission to travel (in Spanish) from the non-traveling parent(s) or guardian(s). Please check with your local embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
8. If you plan to travel with high-quality cameras or binoculars, please reference the packing section of your Essential Trip Information for details about Nicaragua's restrictions and regulations on these items.
Reviews (307)
5 stars
262
4 stars
32
3 stars
9
2 stars
2
1 star
2
Jane
Aug 14, 2025
The Central America trip was really well organised and a fantastic way of travelling through so many countries in a short period of time. Lots of great included activities and even some down time by the coast! I loved the time spent in Nicaragua and El Salvador and hope to return there at some point. The tour leader, Juan, was great, as were the tour guides on the various trips, really knowledgeable and interesting.
John
Aug 13, 2025
Better than expected .Activities were great and this made a very inclusive group. Certainly an entertaining tour with many challenging activities along with relaxing days on the beach or smaller towns
Katie
Aug 13, 2025
Our guide, Juan, was absolutely fantastic. He managed six border crossings, long journeys and a large group with diverse needs with expertise and professionalism. The trip itself was amazing - I will definitely be returning all these countries and recommending this trip to friends. Had an amazing time!
Sandra
Aug 09, 2025
I would highly recommend this journey . It delivered in every way and exceeded my expectations. Seventeen unforgettable days across Guatemala starting in Antigua, to Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica delivered vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. From colonial charm to volcano sand boarding rainforest wildlife to beaches, every moment felt magical. A perfect blend of adventure, history, and beauty. Central America’s heart captured mine completely.
Jay
Aug 04, 2025
My intrepid tour exceeded expectations. Manual our guide was just amazing. The group bonded well. The long days of travel were well offset by the activities and scenery. Also got to see a sloth. What more could u also for. 5 stars Intrepid. 5 stars Manual
Rosemary
Aug 02, 2025
This trip is a great way to cover a lot of ground, but also still get a feel for many different places with lots of opportunities to explore. 10/10!
Yesenia
Aug 01, 2025
The Central America trip was very interesting. I enjoyed learning and experiencing local life and culture. It's a great trip gor those that seek knowledge and adventure.
Karen
Jul 31, 2025
We travelled from Playa de Carmen through to San Jose. A varied action packed trip that offers something for everyone. The trip had a great balance of inclusions along with ample free time to explore and add your own seperate adventures depending on interests and budget. I loved the variety from gorgeous beaches to Jungle accommodation, lakes, rivers, homestay, colourful markets, getting up close to animals, experiencing different cultures, meeting local artisans, visiting Mayan ruins and so much more. I would highly recommend this trip to others considering travel through Central America. I would actually recommend adding on the section beginning in Mexico City and finishing in Panama if you have the time.
Nicholas
Jul 30, 2025
Intriguing trip with a couple of very long travel days and complicated border crossings. Paula, my guide, was extremely well organized, knowledgeable and personable. Not a 'luxery' tour...but accurately explained in the tour notes.
Max
Jul 19, 2025
Embrace this tour! It’s energizing, inspiring and really well balanced. One day you’re in Mayan ruins, the next in a cantina watching soccer with the locals, the day after that on a wide-open beach. Yes, the accommodation is 3 to 3.5-Star accommodation, but it’s family owned and generous-hearted. If you go in with an enquiring mind and a generous disposition you’ll come away richer for the experience. If you have Walter as your guide, it’s puravida all the way! Mucho gracias.
Friends and Family Travel is an agent of Intrepid Travel. All Trip content and associated images are copyright of Intrepid Travel.
You are protected
Contact Information
Call us at
0208 058 4003
Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM GMT.
Contact our customer support
contact@friendsandfamily.travel
We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

© 2024 Friends and Family Travel | All rights reserved.