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Tropical Trails(Twin Room,Start Cancun, End San Jose)


Latin Legends(Twin Share Room,Start Puerto Vallarta, End Antigua)
View tripOverview
Highlights (Bullets)
- Sunset Beach Dinner in Cancun
- Relax on the white sand beaches
- Relax on the white sand beaches
- Sunset Beach Dinner in Cancun
- Locally guided tour of Tikal National Park
- Included flight to Antigua
- Entrance to Selvatura Park, also known as Monteverde's Cloud Forest
- Coffee making demonstration and tasting
Short Description
Beginning in the palm-fringed party paradise of Cancun, this trip will take you across the azure waters of Caye Caulker, the ancient heights of Tikal, the slow and steady beauty of Antigua, the tree tops of Monte Verde, and much more. Think beauty, culture, foodie delights, high octane adventure, and then some. Tropical travel doesn't get any better than this. These 19 days of sun-soaked trails will stay with you forever.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cancun
Just incase you don’t know the drill by now, an ice cold cerveza should remind you that Cancun is a hub of wonderful entertainment. Feel like taking things further afield? White sand beaches, snorkelling, colourful cafes lining the streets and classic locals and shopping will see you living the good life and playing local in paradise. The legendary nightlife will certainly whip up yet another storm of dancing and live music back in Cancun tonight, so go on, get out there tonight and hit the dancefloor with the squad. Your Trip Manager knows this party like the back of their hand, your guarantee to be the know on all the best spots to head.
Day 2: Cancun
Fun is the name of the game today in this stunning white sand beach spot. Thrillseekers could take a trip to some hidden waters deep in the tropical jungle. A bit of rural island hopping, zipling a stint at Garrafon Natural Reef Park, a visit to some ancient Mayan ruins and finally some more swimming is all on offer. Explore the offshore coral reefs and caves while the sunshine ripples through the crystal clear water. Then back to Cancun where seafood by the seashore is on the menu for a fabulous open-air sunset dinner with the crew.
Day 3: 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 4: Playa del Carmen to Caye Caulker
Can't get enough of Playa del Carmen? We thought so! So how about adding something extra to your Mexican extravaganza by experiencing the Caribbean in all its tropical glory? Snorkelling is on the menu for those who want to see the world from an 'underwater' angle.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...
Day 5: Caye Caulker
Rub your eyes, blink again, and say hello to the palm-fringed paradise where life moves at a slower pace. With fresh seafood, sparkling waters and a unique Creole atmosphere, Caye Caulker's soft sands and soft reggae sounds can only be topped by its outstanding World Heritage Barrier Reef and Mangrove kayaking opportunities. Time to sample some seafood and get down to some reggae rhythms.
Day 6: 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 is just begging to be discovered, so grab a snorkel and get out there. Back on land, its 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. In the evening we'll take a romantic venture towards the horizon with a spot of dreamy sunset sailing. This is the life.
Day 7: Caye Caulker to Tikal National Park via Belize City
Water taxis will transport you back to the mainland across the glorious underwater playground you've become so well acquainted with over the last few days. It's time to head to Belize for exploring glorious Guatemala.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, this time, Guatemala.Say hello to the Guatemalan jungle! We could just spend our time here enjoying the sights and sounds of the lush tropics, but we won't. Why? 'Cos we've got a whole load of adventures to get through, of course! This afternoon, you'll feel like Indiana Jones or Lara Croft (without the trail of destruction) with included ziplining.
Day 8: Tikal to Antigua via Flores
Rise and shine, today we'll take a locally guided tour of Tikal National Park, with ruin exploring including the Mayan Templo IV.Next it's 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 pretty place has heaps of history to soak up. You will notice colourful rooftop gardens dotted amongst the old buildings and you’ll hear the clip clop of the horse drawn carriages that are still a favoured type of transport today. Start with a tour with our guide to learn about colonial buildings, tiny squares, and fountains, ending up with you feeling like a local in no time at all. 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 9: Antigua
Don your explorers cap today and head off for some ME time, the day is in your hands. Being able to choose your own adventure today 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. Bike rides, coffee plantations, there's more to do that you can imagine. Guatemalan delights tonight? Yes please. We'll get local over chiles rellanos (or peppers stuffed to the brim with vegetables, meat and sauces). You're sure to hear a collective mmmm.
Day 10: Antigua to San Jose
This morning we'll take to the skies, Costa Rica bound. Who's ready for some Pura Vida vibes?Do you know the way to San Jose? Well yeah, we do, cos' here we are! Today we'll head out to explore daily Costa Rican life at the Plaza & sample some local delicacies at the Mercado Central (Central Market).
Day 11: San Jose to Arenal
We leave the city's charms behind and make for Arenal, one of the most incredible volcanoes in Costa Rica.Welcome to Arenal. This volcano is near perfectly formed and famed for its hot springs and healing properties so you know what that means - spa times and treatments galore. Later, grab some munch in town with the crew, or continue to kick it in the hotel pool.
Day 12: Arenal / La Fortuna
Rapelling through a rainforest canyon and waterfalls this morning will be the perfect wake up call. This optional activity is one you won't forget, and if you have a bit of a fear of heights, this is the best way to conquer them. Not keen? No problem. Head back to the pool, grab a delicious coffee, keep those eyes peeled for sloths or practice your Spanish on a friendly local. This afternoon you can spend your free time exploring or to really go local by experiencing the traditional "Tico" mentality at a country estate, La Fortuna. Here, you'll meet with school students and local farmers to learn about their way of life, before enjoying a delicious home-cooked dinner washed down with coffee (and a shot or two of coffee liquor) and some singing and dancing.
Day 13: Arenal/La Fortuna to Playa Tamarindo
See you later volcano lands, more of Costa Rica is calling and hell yeah we're listening. Playa Tamarindo has the reputation of being Costa Rica's numero uno surf and party destination, and for good reason. This northern beach town boats tasty waves and golden sands dotted with lounge bars and fabulous restaurants. We're staying right by the beach, and loving every second of it.
Day 14: Playa Tamarindo
A bohemian atmosphere permeates every inch of this paradise. Pass the day in the water, snorkelling or scuba diving amongst rainbow fish, or getting amongst the surf. There's an optional catamaran cruise this afternoon, because really who doesn't love getting out there on the water. Whether you opt for this or not, make sure you catch the sunset. Divine. Dinner with the group will top off a perfect day.
Day 15: Playa Tamarindo to Monte Verde
Shake out your beach towel and pack away those swimmers (for now). Today we're making for the mountains!With clean air filling your lungs our next spot awaits, and the misty forests of Monte Verde are sure to take your breath away. This leafy wildlife hotspot is home to coffee plantations, countless monkey species and friendly locals who work hard to preserve the balance between nature and tourism. This afternoon, be blown away (by natural beauty, not wind) as we go trekking in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. We will hike our way through the cloudforest with our guide pointing out birds and wildlife, delivering an in-depth run through of the nature found here. Nature knowledge at an all time high, we'll be rewarded with views of the Caribbean and the Pacific sides of Costa Rica. You can even feel the air change up here, due to it being on a continental divide...no we're not joking.
Day 16: Monte Verde
Yes, yes and yes is what you will as we explore the tropical Selvatura Park – most likely whilst ziplining down a mind-blowing 1km long line. But that’s not all on offer. We’ll also be walking the hanging bridges amongst the lush Monte Verde cloudforest – there are eight in total of varying lengths, each offering unparalleled views of the forest floor – then popping in to a butterfly sanctuary to spot just some of the 20 species flying around. This afternoon is all about learning about everyone’s favourite caffeinated friend – coffee. One of Costa Rica’s most famous exports, we’ll learn how the plants are cultivated and the entire process of turning delicious little berries into rich coffee beans. Definitely a gift shopping op for the parents…
Day 17: Monteverde to Jaco
With Monteverde in our rearview mirror we'll make our way this morning to Jaco, the gorgeous gateway to some incredible national parks.Beachside Jaco is known for its surfing, nightlife and as leads to some awe-inspiring national parks. If you're feeling adventurous, try some horseback riding, or hop on an ATV. The next morning a day trip to the beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park will see us enjoy a dizzying mix of ancient rainforest, pristine beaches and dazzling coral reefs, before we arrive back at our hotel for some poolside relaxation.
Day 18: Manuel Antonio Day Trip
This morning we'll head over to Manuel Antonio, a beautiful national park.Manuel Antonio serves up a dizzying mix of ancient rainforest, pristine beaches and dazzling coral reefs. Get your cameras ready and be on the hunt for wildlife as we walk through this mindboggling hub of biodiversity.After a day of exploration this evening we'll arrive back at our hotel for some poolside relaxation.
Day 19: Jaco to San Jose
After a final adventure op in Jaco (kayaking anyone?) we'll make our way back to San Jose where our trip will come to a close.What an adventure it's been. One thing's for sure, we'll never forget our encounter with paradise.
Availability
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107 Contiki Travel Reviews & Ratings
Tropical Trails(Twin Room,Start Cancun, End San Jose)
Company Reviews
Cape Safari & Falls...amazing!!!
The trip itself was incredible
Stunning Scenic South
Excitement into this tour!
Our trip was planned well
The trip was AMAZING!
Details
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Roundtrip air to/from trip start & all internal transport
Group Size
Intimate Group - 12 max
Accommodations
Trip ID#:
contiki-CASJ15
Meals Included
- You can expect to refuel with hearty breakfasts, and delicious dinners from us - but we'll also give you the opportunity to sample the best local cuisine. Taste all the best local delicacies - from simple street eats to gourmet fare.
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