Ultimate Central America - 18 Days

Who is this trip for
Age range
18 - 35Start / End
- Puerto Vallarta
- Antigua
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 50Meals included
26Highlights
- 17 Breakfast (B)
- Puerto Vallarta: Grab your new buddies and a Paloma cocktail. It’s time to feast on Mexican food and watch the sunset over the sea.
- Tequila: Discover how Mexico’s famous liquor is made. And knock back a cheeky shot or two.
- Guadalajara: This work of architectural art was originally built as a place to care for disadvantaged people. Nowadays, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Guadalajara: Stroll around the official birthplace of tequila and mariachi music.
- Guanajuato: Narrow cobbled streets. Colourful colonial architecture. Manicured gardens. You’ll see why this place is labelled ‘most beautiful city in Mexico’.
- Mexico City: The candy-coloured buildings and antiquated streets make this one of Mexico’s most photogenic cities. And the perfect backdrop for an Insta shoot.
- Mexico City: Craving some authentic tacos, pambazo or barbacoa? It’s time to galvanise your tastebuds.
- Mexico City: Heads up culture vultures! Visit Coyoacan to walk in the footsteps of the famous artist. And check out the museum in her honour. Plus, you can go inside the museum at your own cost if you purchase a ticket in advance.
- Mexico City: Admire the ‘City of Gods’: one of the first great cities of the Western Hemisphere. Although no one really knows who built it.
- Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.
- Chichen Itza: It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!
- Cancun: Get the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes.
- Caye Caulker: Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker. This is how we roll.
- Tikal: Spend the night in the rainforest. Your chance to walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans. And meet monkeys and toucans.
- Tikal: Explore this epic Mayan ‘lost city’ in the heart of the jungle. And hear historic tales from a local expert. #bucketlist moment.
- Tikal: Ah, Guatemala! A rainbow-coloured fiesta of Insta ops and the official 'birthplace of chocolate’. Heaven on earth.
- Antigua Guatemala: Antigua is a ‘tale of two cities’. Here we’ll tour the ancient part (originally built by Spanish colonists) with a native guide.
- Antigua Guatemala: Fill up on tostadas, enchiladas and all the other spiced dishes of your foodie dreams.
- 8 Dinner (D)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- Mexico City: Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
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Summary
This sizzling circuit of Central America takes you to some stunning hotspots in Mexico, Belize & Guatemala. There'll be plenty of surfing, snorkelling and sipping something sweet under the shade of a palm tree - but this trip isn't just about the beaches. You'll get stuck into Central America's rich culture as you taste tequila at a distillery, explore the ruins of ancient civilisations and eat food that will guac your world.
Itinerary
Day 1
Puerto Vallarta
Welcome to one of the most popular beach towns in Mexico, also known as the 'Mexican Riviera'. Spa, pool, relax, repeat are all high on the agenda today as well as an optional zipline adventure – and that's before we top it all off with a beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene.
Day 2
Puerto Vallarta
Today you’re free to explore Puerto Vallarta however you like. You can surf, or, take a day trip to remote beaches on a sailing trip. Then, in the evening, catch a Pirate show! Expect the unexpected in Puerto Vallarta.
Day 3
Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara
Bye bye beach hangs, but don't worry, this isn't your last taste of Mexican beach life - we'll see you soon, sea. Nothing screams ‘Mexico’ like tequila, so why not head to a genuine distillery where you can learn how this fiery spirit is made and taste some for yourself? Afterwards, take a stroll around the streets to get a feel for the old and new world architecture this place is known for – and then sample some seriously electric nightlife. It's time to learn about the city known as the 'Pearl of the West', Guadalajara, with its four main squares and glorious cathedral. Then you could go and find a spot to watch one of the city's famous live Mariachi bands do its thing.
Day 4
Guadalajara to Guanajuato
We leave Guadalajara and hit the road. Here at the old colonial city of Guanajuato (now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage City), you’ll learn about the history of the famous silver mining town and how the economy has shaped much of its culture. Discover the famous 'Mummies', the lovers at the 'Alley of Kisses', and even the Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel himself.
Day 5
Guanajuato to Mexico City via San Miguel de Allende
Thanks to the bright facades of Guanajuato, your eyes should be wide open by now. Just in time too, because there is so much to see in Mexico City.Quick pitstop! We'll check out this colourful UNESCO World Heritage City, known for its baroque architecture and vibrant art scene. Stroll through the charming plazas. Explore local artisan shops. Admire the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. And then we'll be on our way. Mexico City is the largest city in the country and impressively, the oldest capital in Central America. Known for its Aztec temple, its surprising altitude at 2200m, and mountainous landscape, this place is busy, bustling and oh-so-wonderful.
Day 6
Mexico City
The theme 'getting out there' will take on a whole new meaning today. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are the focus for this leg of your journey in this bustling city. Get stuck into the local flavours by tasting some Mexican delicacies at a local market. Do some shopping in Coyoacan. Then, tonight, re-fuel with city eats, like enchiladas, tamales and tacos. Even head out and get a little loco, if the mood takes you...
Day 7
Mexico City & Teotihuacan
It’s a busy one today, travellers. Today, we're heading to the archaeological city of Teotihuacan.Pyramids and Aztec temples are the focus for this leg of your journey. As you go, local guides will kindly impart their extensive knowledge on many interesting topics so you're in the know on anything and everything.Walk along the Avenue of the Dead, admire the grandeur of the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon from ground level, and explore beautifully preserved murals and temples.Back in the capital, it's time to look back on all the mesmerising history & architecture you've seen today (and catch a good night's sleep).
Day 8
Mexico City to Cancun
Goodbye Mexico City. Señoras y señores, let's hit the road!Welcome to Mexico’s super resort – Cancun. With its high energy vibes, this stop is a no brainer when it comes to getting your fiesta on. One suggestion for tonight's dinner? Mercado 28, a busy market serving true Mexican delights.
Day 9
Cancun
Yes, Yes. We just arrived. But we're saying goodbye to bright & buzzing Cancun (only for a bit!) to check out an epic historical hotspot.The most famous ancient ruins in Mayan history. With our Local Guide leading the charge, we’ll learn all about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country, and the worlds that came before us. Afterwards, we’ll take a dip in a cenote – which is the best way to beat the Mexican heat.You've got the entire day tomorrow to spend soaking up the Cancun sun. So, rest up!
Day 10
Cancun
Cancun is a hub of fiery entertainment… known for way more than party vibes. Powdery beaches, endlessly swimmable waters and laid-back taco joints (basically all you need, no matter your mood.) Your Trip Manager knows this place like the back of their hand too, so you're guaranteed to be in the know on all the best spots to head for the evening.
Day 11
Cancun to Playa Del Carmen
Get ready for your next adventure this morning as we're heading to the beautiful shores of Playa del Carmen. A bit of retail therapy never hurt anyone, so how about a stroll down Paseo del Carmen shopping centre to spend some pesos? You'll fall head over heels for this sun-kissed seashore town. For the food addicts amongst you, a plethora of seaside bars and restaurants are here to blow your mind with their delicious cocktails and local recipes.
Day 12
Playa Del Carmen to Caye Caulker
Mexico, you've stolen a slice of our hearts forever but with Belize & the Caribbean Island of Caye Caulker on the horizon, we're not feeling too sad... Hello heaven. Rub your eyes, blink and blink again - yes this pinch-yourself tropical paradise truly is real, This evening is all about enjoying the last dregs of sunshine, sampling fresh seafood and getting down to some reggae rhythms... **PLEASE NOTE: this day may be replaced with another night in Playa del Carmen when the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled. Caye Caulker activities will be rescheduled so all inclusions and optional experiences are still offered as per itinerary. A Free Time Add On Activity of ATV riding may also be offered by the Trip Manager when the itinerary has 2 nights in Playa del Carmen.
Day 13
Caye Caulker
You’ll need a big breakfast today because you're free to do whatever you want, which could mean a whole lot of exploring. Belize has a spectacular Barrier Reef that's just begging to be discovered, so grab a snorkel and get out there. Back on land, it's all about sandy streets flanked by palm trees and dotted with cafes and bars lined with colourful hammocks, painted tables and the most laid-back vibes we know. You'll be begging to stay longer. And your wish is our command.
Day 14
Caye Caulker
Another free day to soak up the vibes of this beautiful city, and spend some more time in the water. Snorkel, siesta, or sip something sweet as you watch the golden sunset over the shimmering waters. Bliss.
Day 15
Caye Caulker to Tikal
Water taxis will whizz us back to the mainland across the glorious underwater playground you've become so well acquainted with over the last few days, landing us back in the arms of Belize City. It’s a super swift passing by of the beloved Belize City before we take to the road to journey across the border into yet another stunning country: Guatemala. This leg of the trip will see you travel overland through Guatemala’s Peten forests. We'll drop anchor at our hotel and doze off to the tranquil sounds of the nature all around, but in a comfy bed with all the amenities you need.
Day 16
Tikal to Antigua
Rise early today to watch the sun stretch over the the top of the Mayan ruin Templo IV. Not a bad way to start the day, hey? We'll then take a guided tour of the crumbling ruins before a trip to the island of Flores, where we'll have lunch and time for shopping before flying this afternoon to Guatemala's capital city and then on to beautiful Antigua. This place isn't just about the dreamy scenery - there's plenty of history to soak up too. You'll notice colorful rooftop gardens dotted amongst the crumbling colonial buildings and you'll hear the clip clop of the horse drawn carriages that are still a favoured form of transport today. You'll be glad to know there are two peaceful nights planned here in the old colonial town set right beneath two massive volcanoes.
Day 17
Antigua Guatemala
Start with a tour with our guide to learn about the local architecture, tiny squares, and fountains. Don your explorers cap this afternoon and head off for some ME time. Being able to choose your own adventure could take you up Pacaya Volcano on a guided hike. If you’d rather produce those endorphins by making (and eating) your own chocolate, then that is also a rather delicious option where you'll learn about the process from start to end and take home the results of your efforts. Guatemalan delights tonight? Yes please. We'll get local over chiles rellenos (or peppers stuffed to the brim with vegetables, meat and sauces). You're sure to hear a collective mmmm.
Day 18
Antigua
Morning global roamers, we came, we saw, we sizzled. We'll fuel up on one last breakfast together, then it's time to wipe away the tears and do those final friend requests because today you're homeward bound with firm plans in full steam for a the supplier 2.0 reunion in Asia. See you next time!
What's Included
Accommodation
Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar), Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara (or similar), Hotel Gran Plaza Guanajuato (or similar), Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar), Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar), Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen (or similar), Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar), Hotel Tikal Inn (or similar), Hotel Las Farolas
Meals
Breakfasts: 17, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 8
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Oct 25
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Customer reviews & ratings
Positives- travel times were short and smooth. Accomodation was good overall. The rest -Our TM wasn't attentive to the group as a whole and picked favorites. He went first through most lines, border crossings, planes etc and didn't always wait for the last people in the group to get through. Nightclubs were the only recommended evening activities in each place. Our TM didn't care if girls got home safely from nightlife, he told us he wasn't responsible for any of us. There was a push to be involved by the TM in nightlife and for everyone to be paying for open bar at every place. We weren't given the option to do entry only. Our TM got irritated at people asking to do entry fee only, made us feel like we were rude for asking for more information. Poor communication from the TM and a disjointed trip with late supply of day sheets that weren't clear. Our TM shared minimal/incorrect/no information on regions culture, background, history of places we went to. We ended up just googling things overselves. It felt like we had really short turn around at historic sites, like Chitcehnza we had a brief guided tour then were given 20min free time to explore the rest of Chitcehnza including the 10min walk back to the meeting point. (although that did mean we had longer at the cenote, which was good). A similar experience at Teotihuacan. The places we were taken for included dinners were terrible. The optional dinners were expensive for the regions and terrible food also. Places I found myself by googling outside of the recommendations were 1000x better and cheaper al it is possible do to better. The only good food places were on Caye caulker. But they were expensive compared to other places on the island and breakfasts that were meant to be included were not fully, I had to pay extra myself to cover the 10% service fee for our included breakfast for 3 mornings. We weren't told to budget for the Ubers/taxis that we needed multiple times a day to get around for included activities and dinners.
Anonymous Aug, 2025 VerifiedPositives- travel times were short and smooth. Accomodation was good overall. The rest -Our TM wasn't attentive to the group as a whole and picked favorites. He went first through most lines, border crossings, planes etc and didn't always wait for the last people in the group to get through. Nightclubs were the only recommended evening activities in each place. Our TM didn't care if girls got home safely from nightlife, he told us he wasn't responsible for any of us. There was a push to be involved by the TM in nightlife and for everyone to be paying for open bar at every place. We weren't given the option to do entry only. Our TM got irritated at people asking to do entry fee only, made us feel like we were rude for asking for more information. Poor communication from the TM and a disjointed trip with late supply of day sheets that weren't clear. Our TM shared minimal/incorrect/no information on regions culture, background, history of places we went to. We ended up just googling things overselves. It felt like we had really short turn around at historic sites, like Chitcehnza we had a brief guided tour then were given 20min free time to explore the rest of Chitcehnza including the 10min walk back to the meeting point. (although that did mean we had longer at the cenote, which was good). A similar experience at Teotihuacan. The places we were taken for included dinners were terrible. The optional dinners were expensive for the regions and terrible food also. Places I found myself by googling outside of the recommendations were 1000x better and cheaper al it is possible do to better. The only good food places were on Caye caulker. But they were expensive compared to other places on the island and breakfasts that were meant to be included were not fully, I had to pay extra myself to cover the 10% service fee for our included breakfast for 3 mornings. We weren't told to budget for the Ubers/taxis that we needed multiple times a day to get around for included activities and dinners.
Anonymous Aug, 2025 Verified
Essential trip information
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