31 day Ultimate Central America Highlights Walk

Your 31-day walking holiday includes:

• Pack-Free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry
• Flexible walking options and activities each day
• Professional and passionate guides
• Knowledgeable local experts during every tour
• All transfers including private boats, ferries, and a domestic flight
• Access to all National Parks
• All tours are private for our group

Superb Accommodations:

• 1 night in Mexico
• 2 nights in Belize
• 7 nights in Guatemala
• 1 night in Honduras
• 3 nights in El Salvador
• 4 nights in Nicaragua
• 8 nights in Costa Rica
• 4 nights in Panama

Wow-mazing Experiences:

• Guided Snorkeling at Sac Actun Cenote
• Kayak on Bacalar 7 coloured Lagoon
• Guided snorkeling at barrier reef Caye Caulker (multiple locations)
• Guided canoe cave tour Barton Creek
• Tour of the ancient Mayan city of Tikal and Copan
• Short weaving class San Juan
• Visit active volcanoes
• Colonial towns and city tour around the continent
• Historic civil war guerilla tour El Salvador
• Pupusa cooking class in Suchitoto
• Visit famous Chichicastenango and Masaya Markets
• Kayak tour islets Granada, Nicaragua
• Access to Hot Springs
• Nighttime wildlife tour Monteverde cloud forest
• Coffee farm tour Boquete

Local produce & Wine:

• Complimentary wines with evening meals
• 30 x superb dinners every evening featuring local produce
• 30 x delicious lunches
• 30 x breakfasts

• BELIZE

WALK: Short orientation walk of Caye Caulker, easy, 2 kms, 1 hour

ITINERARY: This morning, we enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on a short transfer to Chetumal. From there, we journey by water to the Caribbean Island of Caye Caulker in Belize, with a brief stop en route at San Pedro. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be charmed by the islanders’ friendly and laid-back nature. Caye Caulker is a picturesque small island fringed with white sand beaches and palm trees, where bikes and golf carts are the only mode of transportation.

Upon arrival, you’ll head to Island Magic Beach Resort, a charming Caribbean hotel that will put you in the island spirit. Embrace the laid-back local vibe and take it easy today. Your guide will give you a short orientation tour of the island, highlighting the best places to relax. In the evening, enjoy local cuisine for dinner and continue to unwind and soak in the lively island atmosphere.

• GAUTEMALA

WALK: Today you will walk short sections around Barton Creek Cave, most will be explored by canoe, easy grade.

ITINERARY: Today, after an early hotel breakfast, you’ll board the ferry at 7:30 am to Belize City on your way to Guatemala. Before crossing into “The Land of Eternal Spring,” you’ll explore some of Belize’s most impressive jungles. After a 1 hour and 50-minute transfer, a gentle canoe ride through a magical cave system with blue water and ancient Mayan artifacts awaits you. Your guides will provide a history lesson in this beautiful setting, followed by a traditional Belizean barbecue for lunch. Just over an hour away lies the Guatemalan border, where you’ll arrive at your luxury lakeside accommodation near the famous ancient city of Tikal. A locally sourced dinner at the hotel will conclude your journey to the beautifully diverse country of Guatemala, where you’ll spend the coming days.

• GUATEMALA

WALK: No scheduled walks today, relax and unwind from your travels today.

ITINERARY: Boarding time is 7:00 am for your flight to Guatemala City. We will leave the hotel at 5 am, bringing your breakfast along to enjoy at your convenience either at the airport or en route. After a short 1-hour flight to Guatemala City, you’ll be transferred to Panajachel where you’ll enjoy a short boat ride to you accommodation.

Lunch is served at La Casa del Mundo, which will be your home for the next three nights. After the early wake-up and travel, you’ve earned a rest, and the hotel offers all the amenities and views needed for a wonderfully relaxing afternoon. There’s no need to go anywhere for dinner; simply choose a seat and let the chefs take your taste buds on a delightful journey. In the evening, you can sit on the terrace and enjoy a few drinks while overlooking the lake before calling it a night.

• GUATEMALA

WALK: Morning walk: 6.1 km, medium grade, 4 hours. Afternoon walk: San Juan La Laguna, 2-3 km, easy grade, 3 hours.

ITINERARY: After breakfast, you leave by boat at 8 am to the start of the Indian Nose hike. The walk is challenging and requires a decent level of fitness, but the breathtaking views at the top will be a truly fitting reward. After marveling at the views of the lake and surrounding mountains, you will make your way back down the same path, beating the afternoon sun.

At the bottom, a boat will be waiting to take you to San Juan La Laguna. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch at another fantastic local establishment. After lunch, delve into the rich culture of this charming village, known for its vibrant art scene and traditional weaving techniques. Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture, visit local cooperatives, and admire stunning murals depicting Mayan heritage. Experience the beauty and cultural richness of Guatemala on this captivating journey through nature and tradition.

After the tour, you’ll return across the lake to La Casa del Mundo. Enjoy the terrace, dinner, and drinks until you’re ready for bed, then retire to your room for a restful night’s sleep.

• GUATEMALA

WALK: 5 km, moderate difficulty, 4 hours with breaks

ITINERARY: Today, after a communal breakfast, you’ll embark on the exhilarating challenge of climbing the active Pacaya volcano. Despite being only a 2.5 kilometre hike, Pacaya presents a challenging hike due to its steep incline and rugged terrain. As you ascend 500 meters from the starting point, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, adorned with towering volcanoes, green hills, valleys, and farmlands. After soaking in the panoramic views from the summit, you’ll head to a very special pizzeria. What sets this dining experience apart is the use of a pizza oven made of volcanic rock and magma. If you’ve never tried a pizza baked with lava before, you’re in for a treat, not to mention the views surrounding you while you enjoy your one-of-a-kind lunch.

The afternoon holds more adventures as you embark on a guided tour through Antigua, often referred to as a living museum of Spanish colonial history. The city’s colourful streets provide a delightful backdrop as your knowledgeable local guide narrates its incredibly interesting history. Enveloped by volcanic peaks and lush hills, the urban landscape offers endless captivating vistas to admire. Situated in a renowned coffee region, Antigua has much more to offer, and your guide will ensure you experience its highlights.

In the evening, you’ll return to your beautiful retreat for a delightful dinner, rounding off another memorable day of exploration and discovery.

• EL SALVADOR

WALK: No walking today, unwind and prepare yourself for the adventure filled days to come.

ITINERARY: Today, after breakfast, you head off to El Salvador, a country often overlooked when travelling to Central America. El Salvador has much to offer, including its famous black sand beaches and is known as the “Land of Volcanoes.” After crossing the border, you will arrive in the town of Santa Ana, where your first Salvadorian meal awaits at a local restaurant.

From there, you will be taken to the magnificent Lake Coatepeque. Spend the afternoon unwinding, taking in the views, swimming in the pool or lake, and enjoying a drink if you please. From the modern hotel, you can gaze over the lake with a backdrop of not one, but four volcanoes. This area will be explored further tomorrow, giving you the chance to summit one.

Tonight, enjoy a dinner overlooking the calm waters before heading to bed, preparing yourself for a busy day of adventuring to come.

• EL SALVADOR

WALK: Historic civil war walk, 4.5 km, 3 hours, easy grade

ITINERARY: The morning in Suchitoto begins with a delightful breakfast before a guided city tour reveals its rich history and cultural treasures. You’ll delve into El Salvador’s civil war history, as a local guide showcases guerrilla hideouts and recounts stories from the war times. You’ll trek through small sections of lush jungle in a nature reserve recently established by local communities.

After your morning guerrilla tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before saying goodbye to the colonial town and heading to the coast. During the drive, you’ll be treated to views of El Salvador’s beautiful landscape, including volcanoes, jungles, valleys, farmland, and quaint towns.

Your travels are rewarded with stunning views of the ocean crashing on El Salvador’s famous black sand beaches. Take a dip if you wish — both the ocean and the pool will provide a refreshing break after your journey. As the sky turns orange and the sun sets over the horizon, you’ll catch the lovely aromas wafting from the kitchen as your dinner is being prepared. Another day is gone, and Nicaragua awaits, ready to unveil its wonders next.

• NICARAGUA

WALK: Walk up Cerro Negro, 3 km, moderate grade, 2 hours

ITINERARY: Living up to its name, the black-as-coal Cerro Negro volcano will be your first destination of the day after a hearty breakfast in León. Cerro Negro offers a short, unique hike up its dark mass, rewarding you with panoramic views of farmland, jungle, and distant towering volcanoes. The walk might dirty your shoes, but the stunning vistas along the trail make it well worth it. For the adventurous, there will be an option to go volcano boarding or sledding — a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as volcanic sand proves just as exhilarating as snow.

The day is just beginning as the journey continues to Granada. Your first stop will be lunch at a local restaurant in the nation’s capital, Managua. Next, you’ll head to the Masaya volcano, where a short walk leads to a breathtaking view of the crater. Following this, you’ll visit the Masaya markets to immerse yourself in local culture and perhaps pick up a souvenir.

Finally, you will reach Granada, where dinner awaits at your hotel, finishing off a day filled with adventure and unforgettable experiences.

• NICARAGUA

WALK: Madras Volcano 12.5 km, hard grade, elevation gain 1281 m, 8 hours with breaks

ITINERARY: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. The day unfolds with a challenging yet rewarding trek to Maderas Volcano, a breathtaking eight-hour journey. As you ascend through lush jungles, catch glimpses of stunning lake views until you finally reach the majestic crater. Maderas is completely covered in dense jungle forest, making it the perfect place to completely immerse yourself in nature. At the top, enjoy a well-earned lunch in the tranquillity of the forested crater.

For those seeking a more relaxed alternative, indulge in a serene day at El Ojo de Agua. Immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by picturesque scenery. Revel in the tranquillity and pamper yourself with chocolate treats at El Pital, a delightful addition to your leisurely day.

As the groups reconvene, join together for a delightful dinner back at the hotel. Share stories of the day’s adventures and savour the flavours of Nicaraguan cuisine.

• COSTA RICA

WALK: Rio Celeste, moderate, 5 km, 3 hours. Hanging bridges walk, easy, 3 km, 2 hours.

ITINERARY: After finishing your breakfast made with local produce, you will head to the Rio Celeste waterfall. Famous for its neon blue water, it is a sight that is sure to impress. You’ll make your way down a well-maintained path surrounded by the deep greens of the Costa Rican jungle, with Morpho butterflies fluttering all around. The walk will take around one hour each way, leading you to the stunning ‘light blue river waterfall.’

Once back at the trail’s end, you will be taken to the Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, with a stop for a superb lunch offering views of Lake Arenal. With full bellies, you’ll walk across the hanging bridges in the Arenal cloud forest. This three-kilometre walk will take you into the heart of the jungle, where your guides will help you spot hidden animals and share interesting facts about the area.

After these two walks, it’s time to relax at your hot spring resort. Here, you will have private access to the hot springs, with nearby views of the Arenal Volcano, which you will explore the next day. Before your evening program of complete relaxation, you will enjoy a lovely dinner right at the resort. Whenever your eyes are struggling to stay open, you can retire to your chambers to dream of the adventures to come.

• COSTA RICA

WALK: Monteverde walk, easy, 6 km, 3 hours. Nighttime walk, easy, 2 km, 2 hours.

ITINERARY: An early start begins a busy day in the magical cloud forests of Monteverde. The transfer will take around 2.5 hours, taking you around Lake Arenal and through the rainforest. Upon arrival, you will tour the ecological farm of Hotel Belmar, your home for the night. After touring the farm, lunch will be prepared with fresh produce from the gardens.

The famous cloud forest of Monteverde awaits you, with an expert guide ready to share insights about the flora and fauna. Cloud forests are just as green and lush as rainforests but offer a cooler climate with moisture coming from fog, creating a surreal scenery unlike any other. The six-kilometre walk through the forest will take around three hours, giving you ample time to absorb the area’s beauty.

At around 5 pm, you will return to your hotel, where another locally sourced meal will be prepared for dinner. After dinner, you will explore the cloud forest at night. From around 6 to 8 pm, you will be guided through a smaller section of the national park with a flashlight. The forest comes alive at night, allowing you to see an array of animals such as colourful frogs, tarantulas, sloths, armadillos, and more. After a long day of exploring the Monteverde region, you can retire to the beautiful Hotel Heliconia.

• COSTA RICA

WALK: Manuel Antonio walk, 7 km, easy grade, 3 hours.

ITINERARY: An early breakfast kicks off your day, as you prepare to beat the crowds on a 7 am tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. Despite being the smallest national park in Costa Rica, it is also the most famous, renowned for its intense biodiversity, lush jungle, and white sand beaches. Your walk will cover around 7 kilometres, leading you through the entirety of the park. During this 3-hour expedition, your guide will help you spot all the incredible wildlife the area hosts. After your walk, you can cool off with a dip in the blue waters surrounding the park’s white sand beaches.

Following a lovely lunch, your next transfer will be waiting to take you to Drake Bay, located in Corcovado National Park. Known as the most densely biodiverse place on Earth, this is the ultimate destination for wilderness lovers. Upon arrival at your beautiful lodge, you can begin to envision your jungle expeditions while indulging in the delectable cuisine served for dinner. As your bed welcomes you, you’ll be ready for another day of jungle adventure.

• COSTA RICA

WALK: Corcovado, approx. 10 km, moderate, 7 hours with breaks

ITINERARY: Wake up in the tranquillity of a jungle oasis, surrounded by the sounds of nature, and savour your breakfast as the sun begins to cast its golden light over the blue sea and lush green palms. Today, you’ll once again venture into the depths of the verdant jungle, where more wildlife and natural wonders await.

On your final day in Costa Rica, you’ll immerse yourself in the country’s glorious wilderness with another exhilarating hike into the forest. Your journey will take you further into the heart of the jungle, where you’ll explore around the famous Sirena Ranger Station, renowned for its wildlife study and extreme biodiversity. As you trek through the lush landscape, marvel at the towering jungle trees draped in vines and uncover the myriad creatures that call this area home. It’s the perfect opportunity to practice your bird calls, as the jungle reverberates with the melodious songs of hundreds of bird species.

After today’s extraordinary exploration, you’ll return to your lodge to unwind in your tropical hideaway. Whether you choose to relax by the pool, take out a kayak, or simply enjoy a few drinks while soaking in the last hours of sunlight, you’ll cherish these final moments in Costa Rica. Tonight, another delightful dinner awaits — a fitting farewell to the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica as you prepare to embark on your journey to the equally captivating country of Panama.

• PANAMA

WALK: 7.9 km, moderate grade, elevation gain 589 m, 4 hours.

ITINERARY: Today, following a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you’ll delve deeper into the splendor of Boquete. Your morning will be filled with the El Pianista walk, a trail that unveils the highlights of the cloud forest. Beginning amidst open fields with views of mountains on the horizon, the trail gradually leads you into the heart of the forest, where you will be completely enveloped in the lush greens. As you traverse the path, you’ll walk through a narrow canyon adorned with moss-covered rocks and small plants. While the trail may pose challenges to navigate independently, our expert guides ensure a seamless journey through this enchanting landscape. Throughout much of the day, the forest is veiled in mist, adding a magical touch to the scenery.

After completing the trail, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before heading off to visit a local coffee farm. Here, you’ll partake in a tour that unveils the intricate process behind producing excellent coffee. Even for non-coffee lovers, it’s a great place to go for a leisurely walk with great views all around. Following the coffee farm experience, you’ll return to your hotel, where another regional dinner will be prepared for you to enjoy.

• PANAMA

WALK: 3.5 km, easy grade, elevation gain 282 m, 2 hours.

ITINERARY: Before heading to the final destination of Panama City, you will make it up the India Dormida trail for breathtaking sunrise views. Overlooking Anton Valley and its surrounding mountains, India Dormida is a moderate hike that will take around 4 hours in total. Much like La Silla, this climb ends above the trees on a picturesque grass covered rolling hill. Once on top you can sit and enjoy breakfast as you watch the sun rise, illuminating the now gold looking grass around you. After all pictures have been taken you can make your way down where the transfer to Panama City will be waiting for you. The drive will be just over two hours and permits you to take a quick nap before arriving in the city for Lunch.

The Afternoon program contains a historical tour of the old colonial centre of Panama. Casco Antiguo or Casco Viejo is considered a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, and dates back to 1673. It is known for vibrant plazas and beautiful brick-paved streets surrounded by colourful houses. After this walk you will be taken to the hotel located inside this historic centre. Here you will be greeted with a festive dinner to celebrate the end of the Central America tour. Whether you started all the way back in Mexico or in Costa Rica, everyone will be many wonderful experiences richer, and this festive dinner will top it off.