| Day | Destination | Description | | Day 1-2 | Panama City | Day 1-2 Arrive Panama City
Arrive in Panama City at any time. Check into your hotel and enjoy the city. Please try to arrive before 6pm for an important group meeting where you can meet the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and the other group members.
Lying in the centre of Panama's southern coast, the country's capital is a modern, bustling city, thanks to the enormous trade and commerce that passes through each year. However, there are plenty of other reasons to visit the Panama City aside from the world-famous canal. The city has a long and varied history, and the site was an important stop on the 'Gold trail' of treasures being shipped from the Spanish colonies in the Americas back to the motherland. For this reason, the early settlement was attacked numerous times and at one time the city was burned to the ground. This part of the city is now known as Panama La Vieja (Old Panama) and still has some great old buildings, as well as some interesting museums that document the history of the region.
After the fire, the city was relocated 8 km away, on a small peninsula planners felt would be easier to defend. This area is now known as the 'Casco Viejo,' and is surrounded by sea on 3 sides and a moat on the fourth, making it a very strategic location. The area is beautiful, and great for a glimpse into history with its narrow cobblestone streets and colonial-style buildings. Heading out of the city there is a fantastic 2 km-long causeway linking the city with 4 small islands off the coast. The causeway has great views of the city and ocean, and if you are lucky you can sometimes spot dolphins.
The Panama Canal is a fabulous example of modern engineering and is considered to be one of the engineering wonders of the world. Many times before was a canal attempted to join the two oceans at this point. The first to try were the French, but they encountered endless trials and catastrophes, in the end claiming the lives of 22,000 people-and the canal was abandoned. The United States eventually completed the canal in 1914, and today it extends 80 km across the country. Gigantic lock systems raise and lower the water levels, allowing ships to go from lake to lake (the canal is made up of entirely fresh water), and eventually from ocean to ocean. According to statistics, more than 12,000 ocean-going vessels pass through it a year-over 30 a day! Watching a freighter pass through the locks is something not to be missed. Spend the second day at leisure or partake in one of the many optional activities such as visiting the world-famous Panama Canal, exploring the old city and ruins, and shopping. | | Day 3-5 | Santa Catalina | Day 3-5 Santa Catalina
This small, friendly and laid-back town on the Pacific coast is the perfect place to wind down. In addition to relaxing on one of the 2 black-sand beaches, your options include fishing, snorkelling, boat trips, diving and surfing as well as exploring numerous nature trails that lead to other remote beaches and wildlife viewing opportunities such as flocks of parrots which inhabit the hills around Santa Catalina.
The word 'panama' is an indigenous word meaning an abundance of fish and Santa Catalina emphasises the origins of this name. Large schools of tuna, wahoo, and other game fish can often be seen as well as white tip reef sharks. Seeing eagle rays, barracudas, and turtles is also quite common. From June to September, sightings of humpback whales, wintering from South America are possible.
Santa Catalina is the closest access point to Coiba Island part of the nation's largest marine park which has been described as a cross between the Galapagos and Cocos Islands. Time and weather permitting it may be possible to organise an optional boat trip to explore this marine park. | | Day 6-7 | Boquete | Day 6-7 Boquete
Our journey continues, taking us next to the mountain retreat of Boquete. A plethora of outdoor options await us here, including numerous hikes, white water rafting, and a coffee plantation tour.
The picturesque town of Boquete is nestled in a green mountain valley with a beautiful river running through it. The town is well-known for its cool, fresh climate and unspoiled natural environment, making it an outdoor lover's paradise. There are numerous hiking tours to choose from, as well as horseback riding and white water rafting. It is also a good place to just relax in the mountain climate as a break from the lowland heat. For coffee lovers, there are many plantations that offer tours of their factories as well as taste tests. | | Day 8-10 | Bocas Del Toro | Day 8-10 Bocas del Toro
We travel by means of buses and a boat to arrive at the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro. Our time here offers us plenty of opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive, or just relax on the beach.
The Archipelago of Bocas del Toro is made up of 6 islands, only 2 of which have roads and services for tourists. The islands are unique in many ways. The islands and closest shoreline form an isolated pocket of lowlands between the mountains and swamps of most of nearby mainland. As a result there is much wildlife found only in this region and nowhere else. The islands are mostly covered in rainforest and have spectacular beaches.
Estimated Travel Time: 8 hours
Approximate Distance: 340 km | | Day 11-12 | Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica | Day 11-12 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica
Begin with an incredible bus ride over the Panama border to Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. The picturesque village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca's fourteen kilometres of incomparable white and black sand beaches are surrounded by exotic tropical vegetation. There are several optional activities available. Rent a bike or hire a boat to Manzanillo, and hike to Monkey Point through the Gandoca - Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. Try snorkelling or take it easy and and explore La Isla Botanical Gardens.
Rent a boogie board if the waves are calling, dance the night away to reggae and calypso, taste flavourful Afro-Caribbean cuisine, and succumb to the natural beauty of this tropical paradise. This area of Costa Rica was quite isolated until a road was built a only a couple of decades ago, and it still hasn't lost its charm.
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hours
Approximate Distance: 70 km | | Day 13-14 | San Jose | Day 13-14 San Jose
This is the arrival day for passengers on our Central American Journey and departure for those doing the Panama Experience. There are no planned activities today so go out and enjoy the city.
Located in the central highlands, San Jose enjoys a moderate climate. Like most cities, San Jose has its good and bad sides. It is the centre of government, theatre, and art, as well as of air pollution and congestion. It has beautiful parks and museums, and a few beggars on the streets. It is big and often noisy, but even from its crowded downtown streets, you'll often enjoy a view of the surrounding lush mountains.
Start your exploration of the city in the main plaza, a great place to people-watch. A mime, juggler, marimba band, magician, or storyteller may be performing for whatever is collected when the hat is passed. Artisan booths are common, creating a regular arts and crafts fair atmosphere.
A source of pride for the Ticos (Costa Ricans) is the National Theatre. Inaugurated in 1897, the building was paid for by coffee growers through a voluntary tax on every bag of coffee exported. The National Museum, housed in the Bellavista Fortress, offers exhibits on pre-Columbian art, colonial art and furniture and religious art within a 19th century building that was converted from a military fortress after the army was abolished.
The Museum of Costa Rican Art, located in La Sabana Park, used to be the international airport and the museum is now housed in the old terminal building. The Jade Museum is on the 11th floor of the Instituto Nacional de Seguros building. In addition to the marvellous collection of jade objects, there are pre-Columbian ceramic and stone works as well as displays with archaeological and ethnographic information. The Gold Museum is located underneath the Plaza de la Cultura. Its spectacular collection of indigenous gold art belongs to the Central Bank of Costa Rica.
The best and least expensive places to buy souvenirs in San Jose are the markets. The two main ones are the ones in Plaza de la Cultura, which is an outdoor open market, and the Central Market, where handicrafts are sold along with boots, fish, flour, herbal remedies, shirts and everything else you can imagine. Always watch your belongings and be ready for crowds.
Probably the hardest thing you will do in San Jose, other than get safely across busy streets, is keep the street numbering systems straight. Street and avenue numbers are posted on buildings at the corners of some intersections. Keep looking as you walk, and you will eventually find one.
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours
Approximate Distance: 230 km | | Day 15-16 | La Fortuna / Arenal | Day 15-16 La Fortuna / Arenal
Set on the northern plains of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano sits on the southeast shore of artificial Lake Arenal (77 square kilometres, or 48 square miles). Separating the mountain ranges of Guanacaste and Tilaran, the lake was created by a hydroelectric dam. Winds sweeping off the Caribbean Sea reach speeds of 48 to 72 km/hr (30 to 45 mph), making Arenal one of the best windsurfing destinations in the world. The volcano is quite active and occasional eruptions make it a natural wonder to be respected.
La Fortuna, the town near the foot of the volcano is an excellent base for adventure. Take an unforgettable night hike around the base of the volcano to see the top glowing an eerie red, accompanied by a soundtrack of monkeys and the rumblings of the volcano in the distance. Hike the area's nature trails, swim in chilly La Fortuna waterfall or join a canopy tour and catch a bird's eye view of the forest greenery. Other optional activities include full-day Class III & IV white water rafting on the Toro or Arenal Rivers, mountain biking, caving, horseback riding, or a tour of the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge. Like much of Costa Rica, the area is a birders' paradise, with over 600 species as permanent residents. . After a long day of exploring, the Baldi Hot Springs might just be the answer to your tired muscles. Soak in one of the natural thermal baths and hope for the clouds to part long enough for a glimpse of Arenal's slopes shaped by multiple eruptions.
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours
Approximate Distance: 150 km | | Day 17-18 | Monteverde | Day 17-18 Monteverde
Costa Rica is a natural gem because of its breathtaking flora and fauna. Travelling into the cool cloud and rainforests of Monteverde, we have a glimpse of how lush ecosystems truly are works of art. Take time to bird watch, ride a horse, mountain bike, or ride a zip line over the rainforest canopy.
Spend two days exploring Monteverde and the Forest Reserve, truly a nature lover's paradise. Local guides are extremely knowledgeable about the area and passionate about conservation of this precious ecosystem. The unique community has several local co-operatives worth visiting including artist collectives and a cheese factory. If you're there at the right time of year, you may be lucky enough to see the Resplendent Quetzal, one of the most beautiful and elusive birds in the world. Optional activities include the Sky Walk, a series of suspension bridges through the jungle canopy, a butterfly garden and a thrilling canopy zip line.
Monteverde or "Green Mountain", is exactly what you find at the end of the long, rutted dirt road through the mountains. The surrounding pastures were once covered with dense forest, but today only a small piece of it remains. That piece of forest has been preserved as the Reserva Biologica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. Cloud forest is much like a rainforest, but much of the moisture comes not from falling rain but from the condensation left by the nearly constant cloud cover that blankets the tops of mountains in many parts of the tropics. Monteverde Reserve covers 1600 hectares of forest and is home to a great variety of wildlife. More than 2,000 species of plants, 320 bird species and 100 different species of mammals inhabit this small area. The Santa Elena Reserve, another park contiguous with Monteverde, is less well known and visited but also worth seeing. All proceeds from this park profit the local community.
The village of Monteverde was founded in the 1950s by Quakers from the United States. Looking to leave behind the constant fear of war and objecting to being forced to support continued militarism through their taxes, the Quakers chose Costa Rica because of its commitment to a non-militaristic economic path - Costa Rica's army was dissolved in the 1940s. Since its founding, Monteverde has grown slowly as others who shared the original Quaker founders' ideals moved to the area. Although the Quakers came here to farm the land, they recognized the need to preserve the rare cloud forest that covers the mountain slopes above their fields. The community is very different from those on the coast, and offers several souvenir shops and the Quaker cheese factory, which is definitely worth a visit. Make sure to try their ice cream!
Estimated Travel Time: 10 hours
Approximate Distance: 240 km | | Day 19-20 | Ometepe, Nicaragua | Day 19-20 Ometepe, Nicaragua
The landscape on Ometepe, an island on Lake Nicaragua, is dominated by two towering volcanoes: Concepcion at 1610 m (5281 feet), and Madera, at 1340m (4395 feet). If you enjoy a challenge, hiking Maderas volcano is an optionâ?¦but not an easy one! Otherwise the island is ideal for swimming, as it is surrounded by beaches, and has several jungle swim-holes. The island is also famous for its stone statues and ancient petroglyphs made by the Chorotega people.
Also known as La Mar Dulce (the Sweet Sea), Lake Nicaragua is the largest lake in Central America and the tenth largest freshwater lake in the world. Forty-five rivers flow into the lake and it is home to the unique lake shark, the world's only species of freshwater shark. The wildlife on the island is abundant and includes several species of monkeys and green parrots. The otherworldly roar of a Howler monkey (you'll think it's a jaguar) can be heard for several miles.
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours
Approximate Distance: 50 km | | Day 21-22 | Granada | Day 21-22 Granada
Nicaragua has flourished in the past few years and boasts both incredibly friendly people as well as impressive natural beauty. Granada's colonial charm is complimented by the surrounding active volcanoes and lakes, making day trips a fun and easy option. Hike, cruise, or just explore the city's markets and museums. Walking is probably the easiest way to see all the sights of Granada, your tour leader will give you an initial orientation walking tour of the city and then you have plenty of time to explore in more depth.
Granada is Nicaragua's third largest and oldest city and retains its traditional Spanish colonial character. In the warm evenings you can usually find friendly neighbors visiting and chatting with each other from rocking chairs in the open front room of their homes. Frequently live local music is played in the square. Granada is located on the shores of Lake Nicaragua and has a long park ideal for strolling.
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours
Approximate Distance: 60 km | | Day 23 | Tegucigalpa, Honduras | Day 23 Tegucigalpa, Honduras
We pass through the spectacular scenery on a full travel day from Nicaragua crossing into Honduras, on our way to the capital city of Tegucigalpa.
Tegucigalpa, or "Tegus" as it's known by the locals, has been the capital city of Honduras since 1880. Located in the southern part of Honduras, Tegucigalpa is nestled in a valley at an elevation of approximately 3000 feet, surrounded by a chain of tree-covered mountains. This creates an ideal climate; Tegucigalpa is tropical yet cool, with less humidity in comparison with other major Central American cities. Already a settlement of indigenous Lenca people, the Spanish arrived in the area during the mid-16th century and began transforming it into a major mining centre for silver and gold. Evidence of this can be seen in several colonial buildings such as the cathedral of St. Michael Archangel.
Estimated Travel Time: 12 hours
Approximate Distance: 370 km | | Day 24-26 | Roatan Island, The Bay Islands | Day 24-26 Roatan Island, The Bay Islands
After another full day of travel through the hills of Honduras, we arrive at the coast and ferry across to paradise. A SCUBA diving haven amidst what is part of the second largest barrier reef in the world, Roatan is a Caribbean-style island made famous for its marine treasures. Crystal blue waters invite swimming, diving, snorkeling, or simply relax on the white, sand beaches of the Bay Islands. You will also get a break from practicing Spanish because as a former British colony, many locals here speak English.
Roatan is surrounded by over 100km (62 miles) of living, protected reef that is home to thousands of species of fantastically coloured fish and marine life. The beaches of the western end are some of the most beautiful in the world, with clear turquoise water, powdery white sand and swaying coconut palms. While many people spend their days immersed in the warm, blue Caribbean waters and enjoying excellent fresh seafood, you may also opt to venture into the hilly interior by bicycle or scooter. The botanical gardens offer relaxed walking amidst exotic plants and racing 'Jesus Lizards', a species of lizard that runs on its hind legs, even over water! In nearby Sandy Bay the Institute for Marine Sciences and the Roatan museum are definitely worth a visit.
Estimated Travel Time: 12 hours
Approximate Distance: 350 km | | Day 27-28 | Copan | Day 27-28 Copan
The Mayan ruins of Copan are fascinating, beautiful and unique among Mayan cities. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980, Copan contains some of the most important Mayan ruins found to date, and many unusual artistic features. Visitors walk through grassy plazas filled with intricately carved and decorated monuments, statues and staircases. Huge carved faces stare at you from ancient walls and bring the place to life, causing renewed wonder at the mysterious disappearance of such a creative civilization.
The colonial highland town of Copan Ruinas is a charming and relaxing place. This town has a lot more to offer than just the ruins. Opt to explore the nearby hills on horseback and check out some lesser known Mayan sites along the way or check out a local private macaw reserve that is also home to a large variety of other birds on the property. If neither of those appeal, you can journey to some local hot springs for a relaxing soak.
Estimated Travel Time: 10 hours
Approximate Distance: 350 km | | Day 29-31 | Antigua, Guatemala | Day 29-31 Antigua, Guatemala
Once the third largest city in all of Spanish America, Antigua served as Guatemala's capital city for more than 200 years until an earthquake destroyed it in 1773. In 1979 UNESCO declared Antigua a World Heritage site, and Antigua today is a peaceful colonial city that is a pleasure to explore. Your tour leader will give you an orientation walking tour to introduce you to the city. Walk through quiet cobblestone streets past rebuilt stucco homes with heavy, beautifully carved wooden entrances.
The point of reference for finding one's way around Antigua is the Central Park, and the place to be in the late afternoons/evenings. You can pick up a map from the tourist office located on the ground floor of the Palace of the Captains-General on the south side of the central park. Explore the museums and colonial buildings, or just soak up the atmosphere in this delightful city, one of the best-restored Spanish colonial cities in the world.
Antigua has various specialties that make shopping here very worthwhile. Textiles sold here and in the nearby towns are of the highest quality, beautifully designed and woven on foot looms or the more traditional back-strap loom. Jade, in carved statues and jewellery, is sold in several factories and shops in town and silver jewellery is sold in the better shops and also in a silver factory in nearby San Felipe de Jesus. The city also offers good buys in ceramics and antiques as well. For the museum and gallery buffs, one of the best in the Central America is found in the Hotel Casa Santo Domingo. It houses colonial religious, contemporary Latin American and pre-Colombian art pieces. These form only part of the galleries and museums of the 5-star Hotel Santo Domingo, formerly a Dominican monastery.
Antigua is a popular centre for Spanish study, and here you will find dozens of schools and a collection of students from around the globe. Because of the international population, there is no shortage of restaurants, bars and activities available in Antigua. You'd have to try very hard to get bored!
There are also plenty of fun day trips available from Antigua, one of the most popular being a climb of still-smoking Pacaya Volcano.
Estimated Travel Time: 8 hours
Approximate Distance: 200 km | | Day 32 | Chichicastenango/ Panajachel | Day 32 Chichicastenango/ Panajachel
A visit to Guatemala would not be complete without the chance to visit to the famous market of Chichicastenango. Unless you can resist the wonderful handmade items for sale, you should sharpen your communication and bargaining skills. The Chichicastenango market is the best known, but there are a number of other markets around where you may wish to purchase any number of handicraft items. Renowned for its colourful handicrafts and intricate weavings, 'Chichi' is also an important trading place for the local residents, and provides close views of daily life of modern Maya. There are also a number of community cooperatives that you may wish to visit. The proceeds from the sales return directly to the community and are a significant contribution to the local economy. Along with your souvenirs you'll take home memories to last a lifetime.
We then travel through the hills and fertile fields to the shores of Lake Atitlan. Lake Atitlan is one of the most beautiful spots in Guatemala. Twelve native villages, blue-grey mountains and three volcanoes line the shores of this lake resulting in a wonderful combination of unusual natural beauty and traditional culture.
Panajachel is a relatively modern town with paved streets in its centre and a great deal of old world flavour and charm. The best way to see Panajachel is on foot, but pay attention to where you're going as there aren't any street signs. Visit the old churches and explore the back streets to see the more traditional side of Panajachel. You'll have the opportunity to visit the villages on the lake by boat, departing in the mornings and returning in late afternoon. Get ready for spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes, and everyday life in a highland village. The people of this area have received tourists for some time, and are friendly and ready to smile at strangers as readily as they will at a life long friend.
The area is also ideal for outdoor pursuits like swimming, fishing, wind surfing, hiking, bird watching, kayaking, and horseback riding.
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours
Approximate Distance: 100 km | | Day 33 | Lake Atitlan homestay | Day 33 Lake Atitlan homestay (D)
We will overnight in the small town of San Juan la Laguna, home to 3000 inhabitants, mostly Mayas. Tonight, the group will be spread out among a number of homes, and you will sleep in a local home, where dinner will also be provided. This once in a lifetime experience will really help you to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day life of the locals in this region. G Adventures' partner organization in this town is working hard with the Tz'Utujil Maya to provide positive interaction with travellers through local tourism. The organization also works with the local schools to ensure needed materials are available to teachers and students.
Note: Please dress conservatively when visiting the villages and refrain from photographing religious ceremonies, or individuals who do not wish to be photographed.
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour
Approximate Distance: 10 km | | Day 34 | Antigua | Day 34 Antigua
We return to Antigua to spend more time to explore the city, shop, and check out optional activities in the area. Explore the colonial buildings in this delightful town and don't forget to try some famous Guatemalan coffee.
Antigua offers three specialties that make shopping here very worthwhile. Textiles sold here are of the highest quality, beautifully designed and woven on foot looms or the rarer back strap loom. Jade, in the form of carved statues and jewelry, is sold in several factories and shops in town and silver jewelry is sold in the better shops and also in a silver factory in nearby San Felipe de Jesus. The city offers good buys in ceramics and antiques as well.
Optional activities include a hike up the Pacaya Volcano, visiting Macadamia nut and coffee plantations, and salsa lessons.
Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours
Approximate Distance: 80 km | | Day 35-36 | Rio Dulce | Day 35-36 Rio Dulce
We take the road east and stop at Rio Dulce, a small town on Lake Izabal and a port stop for boaters around the globe, on their way to/from Livingston and the Caribbean coast. Rio Dulce is a popular destination for yachts cruising from the Lake to the Caribbean coast along the Rio Dulce. There are plenty of opportunities for R & R aside from boating on Lake Izabal. There are optional tours in the area to view protected manatees, or you may opt to horseback ride through a rubber plantation, explore San Felipe fort in Livingston, cruise along the Lake Izabel to relax in the thermal springs or hike through the jungle-strewn trails in the Chocon-Machacas Natural Reserve area.
Estimated Travel Time: 8 hours
Approximate Distance: 290 km | | Day 37 | Flores | Day 37 Flores
Our final stop in Guatemala is Flores, a picturesque town surrounded by Lake Peten Itza. This is the base for our visit to Tikal-the largest excavated Mayan site. The spiritual centre of Tikal boasts the Mayan's highest pyramids, and abundant flora and fauna in the surrounding jungle. The sound of the forest waking up as the sun rises over the temples will stay with you forever.
It was to the Lake Peten Itza region, that the descendants of the Maya of Chichen Itza immigrated, moving here from Mexico several centuries after the collapse of the great Maya cities in the Yucatan. These descendants founded the city of Tayasal, on an island in Lake Peten Itza, and lived there for about four hundred years, isolated and forgotten by the rest of the country, including the Spanish conquistadors. It was not until 1697 that this small city was finally conquered by a military expedition led by Martin de Ursa, who stumbled upon the city by accident.
The city of Tayasal was transformed into the city of Flores, officially founded by the Spanish in 1700. It remained an isolated area, relying on the subsistence farming of corn and beans, and the gathering of chicle (used in the manufacture of gum), from nearby trees. Despite the recent growth in Peten, Flores remains the same small island town, with narrow, cobble-stoned streets, small, brightly painted houses and friendly people. The island is now attached to the mainland by a causeway, but many of the local inhabitants still get around by cayuco, or dugout canoe. Flores remains one of the most scenic and charming towns in the Peten. It is particularly attractive to visitors because of Lake Peten Itza, a large lake (12 km long and 3 km wide) offering all sorts of possibilities for fun, including swimming, boating, fishing and bird watching, as well as a small zoo and a nature preserve.
The sheer scale of the ruins at Tikal may at first seem daunting. Even if you make it only to the main plaza, or spend an hour relaxing in deep contemplation, you certainly won't be disappointed. The central area, with its five main temples, forms by far the most impressive section. If you start to explore beyond this you can wander endlessly into the maze of smaller structures and outlying complexes hidden in the jungle growth. If your energy levels are high enough to make it to the top of Temple lV, your senses won't be unstimulated. Spectacular views of the surrounding jungle canopy will greet you from the top of the highest structure within the complex. Occasionally, you may spot toucans, macaws and other bright birds from this artificial perch within the greenery. Otherwise, you may simply marvel at the engineering and organizational skills needed to construct this city within the jungle.
The rainy season in the Peten is generally from mid-May until early January. Be prepared to get wet. Make sure you have plastic bags to wrap around the items in your daypack while hiking, and bring a good (light) waterproof jacket. Also make sure that you have strong insect repellent. The dry season runs January until mid-May. During this time you need to make sure you have adequate sunscreen.
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hours
Approximate Distance: 210 km | | Day 38-39 | San Ignacio, Belize | Day 38-39 San Ignacio, Belize
From the town of San Ignacio, opportunities abound for exploring Belize's little known inland scenic beauty. With your free time here, you may choose to explore the area by foot, canoe or horse, take a caving trip, or visit the Mountain Pine Ridge Area and swim in its inviting pools and rivers.
As a peaceful, democratic and English speaking country, Belize is an anomaly. It seems in many ways not to belong in Central America at all. To an extent, it is more a Caribbean nation than a Latin one, looking out from the coast rather than inland for its trade and alliances. On the other hand, it has plenty of distinctively Central American features. It offers a unique blend of cultures that includes, in a tiny population, people of Maya, Mestizo, African, European, Asian and Arab descent. Aside from the rich and lyrical local Creole, Spanish is also spoken throughout the country. For many years Belize has been a relatively unknown destination, and only recently have tourists begun to discover its wonders, including the western hemisphere's longest barrier reef (second only to Australia's).
The San Ignacio/ Mountain Pine Ridge area is the highlight of the trip for some travellers to Belize. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve covers almost 500 square kms (310 square miles) and only controlled logging is allowed. Interesting stops include Hidden Valley Falls, spectacular waterfalls dropping more than a 300 m (984 ft) over the granite edge of the jungle. Further along you will cross the Rio On, and a climb over an assortment of worn boulders and rocks will bring you to a delightful site with waterfalls and several warm water pools. The Mountain Pine Ridge area is also renowned for its system of caves, the biggest and most famous being the Rio Frio Cave. There is an enormous arched entrance into the kilometre-long cave, the largest in Belize.
Also well worth a visit, the Cave of the Stone Scepter, Actun Tunichil Muknal involves a 45-minute jungle hike to the opening of the cave, wading across a river three times before the adventure begins! Inside the cave, you'll find a Mayan cermonial site. There you will be amazed by the natural museum of Mayan relics left just as it was by the Maya 1400 years ago. Ceramic pots, skulls, and calcified skeletons will enthrall even the most experienced speleologist.
Days trips can also be arranged to Xunantunich,an impressive Maya ceremonial centre located on a natural limestone ridge providing a grand view of the entire Cayo District and Guatemalan countryside. The tallest pyramid on the site, El Castillo, has been partially excavated and explored, and the east side of the structure displays a unique stucco frieze. The plaza of the ceremonial centre houses three carved stellae. You can get a group together and hire a taxi to take you to the site. Getting there includes crossing a narrow river by a hand-cranked ferry which shuttles you across! There is a small fee to enter the grounds and a guide can give you the lowdown on the site.
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours
Approximate Distance: 130 km | | Day 40-42 | Caye Caulker | Day 40-42 Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is a relaxed and easy going island with friendly and welcoming local residents. The main street is a sandy pathway through the centre of town surrounded by small bake shops, restaurants, seafood stands and bars. It's the ideal place to relax and explore the reef then watch the sunset. Snorkel and dive boats leave daily for full or half day outings to the reef, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the Blue Hole and for manatee spotting tours. The Belize Reef is the world's second longest (after Australia's) and offers some truly amazing sights including coral canyons, an astonishing range of tropical fish, manta rays, sharks and barracudas.
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours
Approximate Distance: 110 km | | Day 43-46 | Playa del Carmen / Tulm | Day 43-46 Playa del Carmen / Tulm
Mexico is the third largest country in Latin America and the most populous Spanish speaking country in world. Its geography ranges from swamp to dessert, from topical lowland jungle to high alpine vegetation and from thin arid soils to others so rich that they grow three crops a year. The journey explores the Yucatan Peninsula and the southwest highlands region, heart of the Mayan civilization.
Leaving Belize and its Caribbean, reggae-tinged vibe, we head north to Playa del Carmen, Mexico, the de facto centre of the Mayan Riviera. This once sleepy village is quickly becoming a destination among sun worshippers worldwide. Spend your time here snorkelling among the mangroves, diving in underground caverns, or simply sipping on cool margaritas and catching some rays on the beautiful white sand beach. Playa del Carmen is also known in the area for its vibrant nightlife. The island of Cozumel, with excellent snorkelling and diving is only a 45 minute ferry ride away and the seaside Mayan ruins of Tulm are a short drive down the coast. Both are well worth the trip.
Estimated Travel Time: 12 hours
Approximate Distance: 480 km | | Day 47-48 | Chichen Itza / Merida | Day 47-48 Chichen Itza / Merida
En route to Merida, our bus stops to visit the Mayan ruin site of Chichen Itza (entry is optional). Spend approximately two hours exploring this famous site, known for its huge stepped pyramids and elaborate stone carvings. The bus then continues on as we make our way to Merida, the capital of the Yucatan State. Also known as la ciudad blanca (the white city), Merida offers the ideal opportunity to learn about Mexico's fascinating mix of cultural influences.
The city of Chichen Itza, estimated to be founded in 432 AD, houses some of the finest examples of Mayan architecture ever excavated, including El Castillo (The Castle). This 75-foot pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan, is famous for its balustrade of 91 stairs up each of the four sides, a ball court with a grandstand, and towering walls. At about 3:00 PM on the day of the vernal equinox (approx March 20) and the autumnal equinox (approx Sept 21), the sunlight lands directly on the main stairway in a series of triangles that form a serpent's body and ultimately connect with the stone-carved serpent's head at the bottom of the pyramid. The attention to detail, and fusion of architecture, science and religion within the structures and throughout the city planning, will no doubt impress you.
Merida, the capital of Yucatan State, was founded in 1542 on the site of the Mayan city of Tihoo. An included orientation walking tour will help give you your bearings. Merida's centre, the Plaza Mayor, or zocalo, is green and shady and surrounded by the twin-towered 16th Century Cathedral, the City Hall, the State Government Palace, and the Casa Montejo. There are several 16th and 17th century churches scattered throughout the city, as well as some interesting museums. Mornings are the best time to visit the busy and colourful markets. You can buy traditional crafts, such as hammocks or Guyabera shirts, and a good selection of Maya replicas. You can also try out new and wonderful food items. Be sure to stroll down the Paseo de Montejo (or take a caleche carriage ride). Together with many shops and restaurants, you will see stately mansions dating from the late 19th century. Nearby you will find the main shopping street, Calle 65. You are sure to find Merida a fascinating and beautiful city to explore on foot.
Merida is also the gateway to the Mayan ruins of the Puuc Route. The most famous of these ruins, Uxmal, is one of the Yucatan's many ancient treasures. Uxmal rivals Chichen Itza both in scale and extent of excavation.
Optional visit to three nearby cenotes (water sink holes) in the town of Cuzama, not far outside Merida. Transportation to the cenotes is an adventure in itself as it involves taking small wooden horse-drawn carts that run along old rail tracks. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the cenotes!
Estimated Travel Time: 7 hours
Approximate Distance: 390 km | | Day 49-50 | Palenque | Day 49-50 Palenque
Leaving sunny Yucatan behind, we hit the highway and travel through the states of Campeche and Tabasco to the state of Chiapas, home of Palenque. One of the most beautiful Mayan sites in Mexico, Palenque is set in the Chiapas jungle and is rich with colourful, riotous wildlife and profuse flora.
The Palenque ruins are impressive indeed, particularly the Temple of the Inscriptions, where a large sarcophagus containing the mummified remains of the Lord Pakal was found in 1952 by Mexican archaeologist Alberto Ruz. The many temples at this site, with fantastic comb-like decorations on their intact roofs, and the sculptured wall panels, are undoubtedly amongst the most exquisite achievements of the Maya. And the surrounding jungle growth and its wildlife are as fascinating as the ruins. The ancient city holds over 200 buildings of varying size and complexity.
Optional visits to the two impressive archeological sites of Bonampak and Yaxchilan can be arranged. Bonampak is known for having some of the most well preserved frescoes in all of Central America. Amidst the Chiapas jungle, Yaxchilan is set on the Usumacinta River and has numerous exceptionally fine engraved monuments.
Estimated Travel Time: 8 hours
Approximate Distance: 550 km | | Day 51-52 | San Cristobal de las Casas | Day 51-52 San Cristobal de las Casas
Crossing into the highlands we make our way to the colonial city of San Cristobal de las Casas (includes a night bus). Known for its ties to the Zapatista revolution, San Cristobal is also an architectural and cultural wonder. We have the option to take a trip to some of the outlying villages and learn how locals combine traditional beliefs and modern religion with intriguing results. Tours go into local homes to learn about day-to-day village life-an experience which should not be missed. You can also take a horse ride in the mountains, a day trip to Sumidero Canyon or mountain biking in the local hills.
The Highlands of southwestern Mexico retain a more traditional feel. Only about 210 km (130 miles) separate the Atlantic and the Pacific, at the hot heavily jungled Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Entering the state of Chiapas, you will see and feel its uniqueness. This is the richest area of Mexico in natural resources, yet it is also home to the poorest citizens of the country. The mountains of Chiapas are the birthplace of the revolutionary Commandante Marcos and the Zapatista movement. It is also home to some of Mexico's poorest people, the majority of whom are of pure or mixed indigenous descent.
San Cristobal De Las Casas, the old State Capital, stands in a high mountain valley at 2110m (6921 ft). An included orientation tour will introduce you to the city and help give you your bearings. You will find fine examples of 16th century architecture, including a church whose engraved altar is solid silver, and a crown shaped fountain. The city enjoys a temperate climate and most visitors find that walking the old cobble-stoned streets is the best way to discover the city's past and present. The city's mountain valley setting and proximity to the jungle of the Chiapas lowlands, also allows various opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, where you will appreciate the natural scenery of the area.
Most indigenous groups in this area are members of the Tzotzil and Tzeltal groupings. Within these groups are the Tenejapans who wear black knee-length tunics, the Chamulans who wear white wool tunics and the Zinacantecos who wear multi-coloured outfits, with the ribbons on their hats signifying how many children they have. The people here are as curious about foreigners as foreigners are about them. Please respect their traditions. Dress conservatively when visiting the villages and refrain from photographing religious ceremonies, or individuals who do not wish to be photographed.
Estimated Travel Time: 6 hours
Approximate Distance: 190 km | | Day 53-55 | Night Bus / Oaxaca | Day 53-55 Night Bus / Oaxaca
Travel by night bus to Oaxaca. Colourful and lively markets and the impressive Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban are just two of many reasons to visit wonderful Oaxaca. There is an included orientation tour and then plenty of time for you to explore this beautiful town. The conqueror of Mexico, Hernan Cortez, chose the Valley of Oaxaca as his personal domain in the Americas and many visitors have followed in his footsteps. Surrounded by the Sierra Madre del Sur and Sierra Madre de Oaxaca mountain ranges, Oaxaca is a lovely colonial city, which has maintained not only the physical structures, but also the serenity of an era gone by.
Monte Alban, a spectacular grouping of pre-Hispanic (Zapotec) mountain top temples, is just a short bus ride away, as is the Valley of Mitla with its colourful ruins and hand-loomed carpets. Stepping from the cultural to the culinary, Oaxaca is also a great area for trying out new tastes and textures. From the sublime to the exotic, the restaurants and markets around town will challenge you to one adventure after another. After all, this is the home of Mezcal (look for the unfortunate worm at the bottom), Oaxaca chocolate, cheese, and yes, even dried grasshoppers covered with chili and lime, if you are so inclined.
Estimated Travel Time: 12 hours
Approximate Distance: 630 km | | Day 56 | Puebla | Day 56 Puebla
We board one of Mexico's comfortable buses for the drive to Puebla, famous for its hand-painted tiles, unique handicrafts, mouth-watering Mole Poblano and rich colonial history. We will start with an included orientation walking tour and then you'll be free to explore in more depth.
Puebla has managed to incorporate its colonial past with a growing and progressive modern city centre. There are enough churches and well-maintained, colonial buildings to satisfy the most ardent lover of architecture. The markets, of course, are also present for buying, browsing or photographing. If you want to get out of town, you can head to nearby Cholula, home to a massive pyramid that hosts a church at the top and is now covered by the town, to catch an impressive sunset.
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours
Approximate Distance: 320 km | | Day 57-58 | Mexico City | Day 57-58 Mexico City
We travel by bus to nearby Mexico City. Explore one of the world's largest metropolitan areas or take an optional day trip to the famous archaeological site of Teotihuacan. The former Aztec Capital (you can still see some of the ruins of the great Tenochtitlan in the centre of the city, or take a subway ride through one of the temples) was destroyed in the struggle with Cortez and those who followed him. Today it is the world's fastest growing urban centre, offering a great variety of impressive museums, galleries and range of architecture, perhaps unequalled anywhere else in the Americas. Mexico City or D.F., as the locals refer to it, also has a variety of food to match its impressive visual style. If you prefer to get outside the city, the pyramids of Teotihuacan and the canals and gardens of Xochimilco are two good places to start.
A word of caution: Mexico City may be slightly overwhelming at first. The world's most populous centre is a crowded, smoggy, urban place where the altitude combined with atmospheric conditions may cause irritation of eyes, nose and throat. Also be aware that the heat may affect you upon arrival, with a general sense of lethargy and/or loss of appetite. This is no cause for alarm; it is simply a reaction to the heat. Be sure to drink plenty of water (cold bottled water is available everywhere) and do not attempt too much in any given day. We prefer fan-cooled rather than air conditioned rooms to avoid having to acclimatize to the heat and humidity every time you go outside. This is also a more eco-friendly method compared to air conditioning.
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours
Approximate Distance: 130 km | | Day 59 | Mexico City | Day 59 Depart Mexico City
Depart Mexico City at any time. |
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Central America 2012