Splendours of Central America

Overview

Explore the natural and cultural wonders of Central America as you journey through tropical landscapes, volcanoes, colonial heritage, and magnificent Mayan cities. Gain insights into the history of the civil war, vibrant indigenous cultures, and marvel at the Panama Canal, an engineering feat like no other.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Panama City via Amsterdam or the US

Fly from London (regional connections available) to Panama City, with a stopover in Amsterdam or the US. Transfer to the Hilton Garden Inn for a 3-night stay. (N)

Day 2: Panama City

Enjoy a morning city tour, including the ruins of old Panama and the historic colonial district. (B)

Day 3: Panama Canal

Take a shared partial transit and cruise through the locks of the Panama Canal. Experience one of the greatest engineering feats of the modern world. (B, L)

Day 4: Fly to San José, Costa Rica

Fly to Costa Rica’s capital, San José, and visit a coffee plantation on the slopes of the active Poás volcano. Stay overnight at Hotel Presidente. (B, L)

Day 5: Monteverde

Transfer to Monteverde and stay for 2 nights at the Monteverde Country Lodge. In the afternoon, visit Selvatura’s Hummingbird Garden and explore the hanging walkways. (B)

Day 6: Monteverde

Morning visit to Monteverde Cloud Forest to see rare flora and fauna. In the evening, meet with one of the early local pioneers for a fascinating conversation. (B)

Day 7: Granada, Nicaragua

Full-day journey across the border into Nicaragua to the city of Granada, overlooking Lake Nicaragua (approx. 7-8 hours). Stay 2 nights at Dario Hotel (or similar). (B)

Day 8: Granada

Morning tour of the colonial city, including the Franciscan convent. Take a boat ride through the canals formed by the small islands in the lake. Afternoon at leisure or optional excursions. (B)

Day 9: Fly to San Salvador • Suchitoto

Transfer to Managua and fly to San Salvador. Continue to the charming town of Suchitoto for 1 night at Posada de Suchitlán. (B)

Day 10: Route of the Flowers

Explore the cobbled streets of Suchitoto. Visit the archaeological site of Joya de Cerén, known as the ‘Pompeii of the Americas.’ Later, explore cloud forest trails and enjoy spectacular volcano views along the Route of the Flowers. Overnight at Hotel Misión de Ángeles. (B, L)

Day 11: Copán, Honduras

This morning, visit the traditional artisan town of Ataco and stop at Santa Ana on your way to Honduras (approx. 10 hours). Stay at the Hotel Marina Copán for 2 nights. (B, L)

Day 12: Copán

In the morning, tour the fascinating Mayan ruins of Copán, known for its intricate and well-preserved sculptures. Afternoon optional tour to a bird sanctuary. (B)

Day 13: Livingston, Guatemala

Cross into Guatemala and head to the Caribbean coast, visiting the impressive carved stelae at Quirigua (approx. 6 hours). Take a 1.5-hour boat ride along the coast to the town of Livingston, which has a strong Garifuna culture. Stay overnight at the Hotel Villa Caribe. (B)

Day 14: Flores

Take a morning walking tour of Livingston before taking a boat trip along the lush gorges of the Dulce River to visit Bird Island and an indigenous community. Continue by road to the Flores area for a 2-night stay at the lakeside Villa Maya. (B)

Day 15: Tikal

Morning tour of Tikal, one of the most spectacular Mayan ruins, located in the heart of the jungle. Afternoon at leisure. (B, L)

Day 16: Fly to Guatemala City • Antigua

Early morning flight to Guatemala City and transfer to colonial Antigua for 2 nights at Mesón de María. Afternoon walking tour of Antigua. (B)

Day 17: Antigua

Day at leisure or optional excursions to explore this UNESCO World Heritage city. (B)

Days 18-19: Fly to London via the US

Transfer to Guatemala City and fly to London via the US, arriving the next day. (B) (N)

What’s Included

• All accommodation as listed.
• Meals as specified in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner).
• All transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
• Fully escorted tours by an English-speaking guide.
• Entrance fees to all listed sites and attractions.
• Boat rides and optional excursions as stated in the itinerary.
• Internal flights where necessary.

Signature Experiences

• Cruise through the Panama Canal, a historic engineering marvel.
• Visit Monteverde Cloud Forest to observe unique wildlife.
• Explore Mayan ruins in Copán and Tikal.
• Enjoy the beautiful colonial city of Granada and Antigua.

Activity Level

• Moderate activity with some longer travel days and walking on uneven terrain. Good fitness and mobility are recommended for this tour.

Important Information

• Group Size: This is a group tour with a maximum of 18 participants.
• Flights: International flights are included, with possible stopovers in Amsterdam or the US.
• Accommodations: The itinerary includes stays at well-located, characterful hotels throughout the journey.