Central American Trails

10 days - from $895

This concise tour of Central America showcases all that this amazing part of the world has to offer. From Mayan ruins deep in the jungle to a tropical island paradise; adventure to relaxation, this tour has it all! We begin in stunning Cancun, where white sandy beaches meet the clear blue Caribbean Sea. After some time to relax and gear up for the adventures ahead, we continue to Tulum, where Mayan ruins lie perched on a stunning cliff overlooking the Caribbean. Next is Caye Caulker, a magnificent island that is home to the world's second largest barrier reef. We have the opportunity to swim amongst the abundance of superb tropical fish and coral before heading to the picturesque town of Flores where we visit the Tikal Ruins. Set deep in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle, these magnificent ruins will truly be a memorable experience. Our tour ends in Antigua Guatemala, one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in all of the America’s.

Highlights

• Belize's waters
• The palm-fringed island of Caye Caulker
• Punta dancing
• Flores on Lago Petén Itzá
• The Quetzal of Guatemala - your currency and spirit guide
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Antigua Guatemala
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mayan city of Tikal
• 1200-year-old cliff-top ruins of Tulum
• Burritos from a street vendor

Itinerary:

Day 1: Cancun2: Cancun3: Tulum - Chetumal4 - 5: Caye Caulker6 - 7: Flores - Tikal Ruins8 - 9: Antigua10: Antigua

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included:

• Gecko's expert English-speaking regional leader throughout the tour, and local guides at some sites.

• Orientation walking tour in Caye Caulker, Flores and Antigua.

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees and local guides): pre-Columbian walled city ruins of Tulum and ancient city of Tikal.

• Return speedboat ride from Belize City to the palm-fringed island of Caye Caulker.

• Guided walk to the summit of one of the volcanoes near Antigua.

• Free time to relax on the beaches of Cancun and Caye Caulker.

International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure and airport taxes, visas, meals, all optional tours or activities during free time, entrance fees, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.