Private Tour Highlights
- Take an aerial tram from the shadowy rainforest floor into the sun-drenched canopy
- Find exuberant flora and fauna typical of Panama’s neo-tropical forests
- Partial Canal Transit, traveling from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic!
- Authentic Costa Rican-style breakfast with a visit to a coffee plantation
- Learn how coffee is picked, milled, ground and roasted; From bean to cup!
- Poas Volcano, one of the four active volcanoes in Costa Rica
- La Paz Waterfall Gardens with amazing views from platforms with great photo opportunities
- Walk through the butterfly observatory, the largest in the world!
- Get as close as one could ever hope to the birds, flowers and lush vegetation
- Walk right into the forest, thanks to the imposing hanging bridges and the beautiful trails of Arenal
- Excursion of Granada, one of the oldest cities in the Americas
- Enjoy time at leisure to relax or explore independently
- Cover the architectural and historical highlights of the colonial city of Antigua
- Scenic boat ride across Atitlan Lake, passing by three impressive volcanoes
- The enormous Sumidero Canyon where travelers will enjoy a boat ride down the Grijalva River
Tour Overview
Start your trip in Panama with a Panama Canal transit and visit to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Yampu travelers continue to San José in Costa Rica to visit the Poas and Arenal Volcanoes, and over to Granada, Lake Nicaragua and the Masaya Volcano in Nicaragua. In Honduras, we will visit the Maya ruins of Copán. In Guatemala visit historic Antigua Guatemala, Lake Atitlán and the mystical Maya city of Tikal. We then travel to Mexico to visit Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas. The trip ends with two nights in Mexico City.
Inclusions
Please consult with a Yampu Tour Consultant for upcoming Panama Canal transit dates.
Package Price: From £$ 12382
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Panama City
Upon arrival in Panama City, transfer to the hotel.
Upon arrival in Panama City, transfer to the hotel.
Mini-hiking and aerial tram ride: Soberania National Park and Gamboa Resort
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In the early morning trek up to the Soberania National Park. There, walk a part of the famous track Camino de Cruces that connects the Pacific to the Atlantic coast. This historical trail was once used by merchants, slaves, European explorers and gold seekers. In the morning enjoy a nice and fresh climate in the forest and have the opportunity to observe many different species of plants and animals. The Soberania National Park is part of a biological corridor that goes all the way from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. There, observe many birds, mammals and reptiles. Return to the hotel and transfer to Gatun Lake. Upon arrival in Gatun Lake, take an aerial tram ride. The aerial tram ride traverses a mile long tract of Humid Forest that lies within the Gamboa Resort's boundaries. Observe the forest canopy in some areas and are likely to encounter birds and hear Howler monkeys. The tram ascends 280 feet over half a mile and ends atop a hill. From here walk two minutes to the observation tower (which is optional) and for those with some stamina involves a climb of a 100 feet up a mildly inclined ramp which is also wheelchair accessible. From the observation tower get great views of the Canal, the Chagres River as well as the surrounding forested areas of Soberania National Park and the town of Gamboa. The Tower is slightly less than 500 feet above sea level with most of this elevation attained by tram. On the return portion of the tram descend the final half-mile back to the starting point. After the aerial tram tour visit the self-guided exhibits at the Gamboa Resort. ...read less
Partial Canal Transit
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Board the cruise ship to start the water portion of the tour. Enter the canal at the north end of the Gaillard Cut, where the Chagres River flows into the canal. The Gaillard Cut (also known as Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake) is one of the main points of interest for visitors because it was carved through the Continental Divide and this section of the Canal is full of history and geological value.
The boat will travel the Cut's 13.7 kilometers on the way to Pedro Miguel Locks. During the transit of the Cut one will be able to appreciate the continuous maintenance that this area requires, because it is very susceptible to landslides. In this area one will be able to observe the work in process for the Panama Canal expansion project. Before reaching the Pedro Miguel Locks at the southern end of the Cut, be able to view the new Centennial Bridge which crosses over the Canal.
Next, the ship will enter Pedro Miguel Locks, which is one of the two sets of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is lowered 9 meters in one step. Then enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Pedro Miguel from Miraflores Locks, the latter being the final set of locks before reaching the Pacific Ocean. At Miraflores Locks the vessel is lowered 16 meters in two distinct steps. Once in the Pacific Ocean the vessel will sail to the beautiful Flamenco Marina where passengers disembark.
On the way to Flamenco, pass under the Bridge of the Americas, and later, be able to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City's splendorous skyline. Upon arrival at Flamenco be transferred back to the Panama city hotel.
Note: Exact itinerary may vary, depending on where the transit starts. ...read less
San Jose de Costa Rica
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San Jose de Costa Rica. Upon arrival in San Jose, transfer to the hotel.
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San Jose de Costa Rica. Upon arrival in San Jose, transfer to the hotel.
La Paz Waterfalls, Poas Volcano and Coffee Plantation Private Tour
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The first stop today is at a local cafe to enjoy an authentic Costa Rican-style breakfast. Afterwards, visit a third-generation coffee plantation and learn how coffee is picked, milled, ground and roasted. Continue to Poas Volcano. This crater volcano is one of the four active volcanoes in Costa Rica. The crystal-blue sulfur pools will amaze, along with the steam rising from the various volcanic vents. Last stop is La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Wander the trails while senses delight at the five waterfalls that line the trail. Originally, the only way one could view the falls was by literally hanging over the side of the mountain, looking through trees and ferns. With the construction of Waterfall Gardens, there are now amazing views from platforms above, below and in front of the falls for great photo opportunities. The butterfly observatory is the largest in the world. Spanning the length of a football field and reaching heights of 50 feet, this enclosed structure allows butterflies to soar freely. The personal tour guide will take Yampu travelers through the butterfly observatory, the hummingbird garden and the waterfall trails. After the hike, enjoy a Costa Rican buffet lunch. Entrance fees, transportation and lunch are included. In the afternoon, transfer to the hotel in the Arenal area. ...read less
Arenal Hanging Bridges
Embark on a tour of Arenal's greatest highlights! Start with a visit to the Arenal Hanging Bridges for a 3 km hike. Continue from there to the La Fortuna Waterfall, where one can swim in an inviting pool at the base of the waterfall. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in La Fortuna and then hike in the Arenal Volcano rainforest, which includes a walk to the lava view point. Last, but not least, stop at Tabacon Hot Springs to soak in the natural pools and enjoy a buffet dinner.
Embark on a tour of Arenal's greatest highlights! Start with a visit to the Arenal Hanging Bridges for a 3 km hike. Continue from there to the La Fortuna Waterfall, where one can swim in an inviting pool at the base of the waterfall. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in La Fortuna and then hike in the Arenal Volcano rainforest, which includes a walk to the lava view point. Last, but not least, stop at Tabacon Hot Springs to soak in the natural pools and enjoy a buffet dinner.
San Jose- Managua, Nicaragua
Transfer to San Jose to take the flight to Managua, Nicaragua. Upon arrival, transfer to Granada. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Transfer to San Jose to take the flight to Managua, Nicaragua. Upon arrival, transfer to Granada. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Excursion of Granada
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One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Granada, was founded in 1524 by Spanish captain Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba. Although the city was overwhelmed by pirates, destroyed during civil wars and set on fire by the American filibuster William Walker in 1856, it remains one of Nicaragua’s most beautiful cities. One can take a carriage to visit interesting places and appreciate the beautiful architecture of Granada. End this trip on a boat ride on the beautiful islands of Lake Nicaragua. Lunch included. Overnight in Granada. ...read less
Ometepe Island
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Early departure and transfer to San Jorge port. Ferry and excursion on Ometepe Island, for an unforgettable journey to one of the most beautiful places in Nicaragua. The excursion starts by heading toward the southern part of the country, getting to San Jorge, where a ferry will be taken to Ometepe for a spectacular view. Visit places like the pre-Columbian Museum, the Green Puddles lagoon, Volcano Conception and the green Volcano Madera. Lunch will be taken in Santo Domingo beach. Back to the port to take the ferry and transfer to San Juan del Sur. ...read less
San Juan del Sur at Leisure
Day of leisure to relax or visit, independently, the small fishing town of San Juan del Sur or relax on the beach. Afternoon, transfer to Managua and from there to the hotel.
Day of leisure to relax or visit, independently, the small fishing town of San Juan del Sur or relax on the beach. Afternoon, transfer to Managua and from there to the hotel.
San Pedro Sula
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San Pedro Sula. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San Pedro Sula. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Copan
Transfer to Copan, an artistic city during the Mayan age. Visit the Copan Ruins Archaeological Park, with its monumental Hieroglyphic Stairway; the Ball Court (the social center of the Mayan city); the Great Plaza, famous for its estelae and altars, and the tunnels. After visiting the Museum of Mayan Sculpture, lunch will be served at Nia Lola’s Restaurant (included). Overnight in Copan.
Transfer to Copan, an artistic city during the Mayan age. Visit the Copan Ruins Archaeological Park, with its monumental Hieroglyphic Stairway; the Ball Court (the social center of the Mayan city); the Great Plaza, famous for its estelae and altars, and the tunnels. After visiting the Museum of Mayan Sculpture, lunch will be served at Nia Lola’s Restaurant (included). Overnight in Copan.
Copan Museum
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Guided by an authentic native cowboy, starting at the hotel you will ride heading south, by crossing the Copan River one will continue to a small but interesting archaeological site called Los Sapos (the toads). It is a common belief that the Mayan women used this place to come to give birth to their children. The ride continues to the Hacienda San Lucas, from this restored 100 year old farmhouse the traveler will relax enjoying some breathtaking lovely views of town and the valley while enjoying a refreshing cold beverage or a savory cup of Honduran coffee. Later on be taken back to the hotel in Copan. ...read less
Antigua Guatemala
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Transfer to Antigua Guatemala. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Afternoon private tour of Antigua Guatemala, known more commonly as La Antigua or just Antigua. It was the Spaniards’ military capital city of Central America for more than 200 years. Be met at the hotel by a private guide to begin a half-day walking tour of Antigua. It will cover the architectural and historical highlights of this colonial city with a behind-the-scenes look at some of the ruined churches, convents and cathedrals. Entrance fees are included to the Iglesia San Francisco, the Cathedral, Central Park, and La Merced Church. This tour is flexible, and if there are any specific sites that one wishes to see just let Yampu know. ...read less
Santiago Atitlan
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Be picked up from the hotel for a scenic boat ride across the lake, passing by the three impressive volcanoes of Toliman, Atitlan and San Pedro. Upon arrival in Santiago, walk with the guide to find the house where the Maya God Maximon resides. Each year, a different “brotherhood” has the privilege of taking care of their God, so his location changes. Once with Maximon, one may see a local shaman performing rituals for local people. If one would like, ask the guide to help hire the services of a shaman to perform a personal ceremony. After visiting Maximon, visit the local church and learn about the history of this very traditional town, and also see the market and learn about the distinctive textiles and primitive art for which the town is famous. Take a ride in a local “flete” (a pickup truck in which passengers stand in the bed) to get to Hotel Posada Santiago for lunch. After lunch, transfer to Antigua for overnight. ...read less
Guatemala City- Flores
Early morning, transfer to Guatemala City airport to take the flight to Flores. Upon arrival, visit the impressive and mystical Maya city of Tikal. One of its largest buildings is the Temple of the Two-headed Serpent, which measures up to 70 meters high. From its peak, listen to the sounds of the rain forest: more than 300 species of birds, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars and toucans. Due to its immense value, Tikal was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1979. Overnight in Peten. Lunch included.
Early morning, transfer to Guatemala City airport to take the flight to Flores. Upon arrival, visit the impressive and mystical Maya city of Tikal. One of its largest buildings is the Temple of the Two-headed Serpent, which measures up to 70 meters high. From its peak, listen to the sounds of the rain forest: more than 300 species of birds, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars and toucans. Due to its immense value, Tikal was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1979. Overnight in Peten. Lunch included.
Day at Leisure
Optional guided canopy tour to Ixpanpajul and sunset tour to Yaxha.
Optional guided canopy tour to Ixpanpajul and sunset tour to Yaxha.
Palenque
Transfer to Palenque and overnight there. Ground transfer from Flores to Palenque takes about 8 to 9 hours.
Transfer to Palenque and overnight there. Ground transfer from Flores to Palenque takes about 8 to 9 hours.
Archeological Site of Palenque
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Enjoy a visit to the archeological site of Palenque. Walk through the same paths as the great Mayan Lords, and feel the charm and mystery of this culture. The Mayan site of Palenque is located northwest of the Maya lowlands in Chiapas, Mexico. Surrounded by the jungle, it is considered one of the most important archeological sites of Mesoamerica, a ceremonial center and home to a number of Mayan Lords. There are religious temples, plazas, open courts and a ball court, but most of the structures are palaces. Artifacts discovered at this site tell us about the Mayan Lords and in particular of Pacal, one of the best-known Lords of the Mayan civilization. Overnight in Palenque. ...read less
San Cristobal de las Casas
Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes to San Cristobal de las Casas. On the way, visit the Agua Azul waterfalls.
Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes to San Cristobal de las Casas. On the way, visit the Agua Azul waterfalls.
Native Villages
Today, enjoy a half-day tour of the Native villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Each village has its own distinctive highland dress as well as a weekly market and numerous festivals honoring patron saints and other special religious days. Afterwards, walk through the colonial streets of San Cristobal de las Casas, a jewel right in the heart of the Chiapas highlands. The indigenous soul of the town coexists harmoniously with its colonial charm, making San Cristobal de las Casas an enchanting place to visit.
Today, enjoy a half-day tour of the Native villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Each village has its own distinctive highland dress as well as a weekly market and numerous festivals honoring patron saints and other special religious days. Afterwards, walk through the colonial streets of San Cristobal de las Casas, a jewel right in the heart of the Chiapas highlands. The indigenous soul of the town coexists harmoniously with its colonial charm, making San Cristobal de las Casas an enchanting place to visit.
Sumidero Canyon
Depart San Cristobal de las Casas toward Tuxtla Gutierrez airport with a private guide. On the way, there is a visit to the enormous Sumidero Canyon where travelers will enjoy a boat ride. Have an unforgettable experience sailing down the Grijalva River, across a geological fault formed millions of years ago with dramatic cliffs up to one-kilometer-high and the river’s depth of 100 meters. Transfer to the airport for flight to Mexico City. Upon arrival there, transfer to the hotel.
Depart San Cristobal de las Casas toward Tuxtla Gutierrez airport with a private guide. On the way, there is a visit to the enormous Sumidero Canyon where travelers will enjoy a boat ride. Have an unforgettable experience sailing down the Grijalva River, across a geological fault formed millions of years ago with dramatic cliffs up to one-kilometer-high and the river’s depth of 100 meters. Transfer to the airport for flight to Mexico City. Upon arrival there, transfer to the hotel.
Archeological site of Teotihuacan
In the morning, depart the city, heading to the breathtaking archeological site of Teotihuacan. By the afternoon, following a tour of the ruins, return to Mexico City to visit the first quarter—el Zocalo. Mexico City is also known as the Ciudad de los Palacios (City of Palaces). The tour continues in the main square, where travelers will visit some colonial palaces like the Palacio Nacional, the Metropolitan Cathedral and walk through the main streets. Continue to Paseo de la Reforma to admire its monuments and buildings.
In the morning, depart the city, heading to the breathtaking archeological site of Teotihuacan. By the afternoon, following a tour of the ruins, return to Mexico City to visit the first quarter—el Zocalo. Mexico City is also known as the Ciudad de los Palacios (City of Palaces). The tour continues in the main square, where travelers will visit some colonial palaces like the Palacio Nacional, the Metropolitan Cathedral and walk through the main streets. Continue to Paseo de la Reforma to admire its monuments and buildings.
Flight Home
Transfer to airport for international flight back home or overlap with add-on program.
Transfer to airport for international flight back home or overlap with add-on program.
Panama City, Panama
San José, San Jose, Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Granada, Nicaragua
San Juan del Sur, Rivas, Nicaragua
Managua, Nicaragua
San Pedro Sula, Cortés, Honduras
Copan Ruinas, Copan, Honduras
Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepequez, Guatemala
Tikal, Peten, Guatemala
Palenque, Mexico
San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico
Mexico City, Mexico
Places You'll See
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Mexico City
From the bustling nightlife, to the massive collection of museums, Mexico City appeals to all. Bring the family to Six Flags Mexico, or the Chapultepec Park and Zoo. Sports fans can enjoy the Estadio Azteca, the biggest soccer stadium in the world, or the Arena Mexico to watch the famous Lucha Libre. Or simply stroll the streets and visit different restaurants and shops.
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Palenque
Containing some of the finest architecture, Palenque was once a Maya city state that had been abandoned to be swallowed by the Mexican jungle. Now partially excavated, eight temples and other structures stand today. It is believed that this is only ten percent of the entire Maya City that is still mostly consumed by nature. Enjoy a guided tour and learn what there is of this ancient city.
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Peten
Dotted with many Mayan Archaeological sites the area of Peten, once the hub of Mayan civilization, is full of history and ancient mysteries. Deep in the rainforests of Peten is the ancient city of Tikal, among other lost Mayan cities that have begun restoration.
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Antigua
Founded by the Spanish in the 17th century, Antigua city follows traditional layout and Spanish Baroque Style architecture. Enjoy chocolate making classes as you learn about the culture of the area or, For the more adventurous, there is the option to hike up several active volcanos in the region. With a walking coffee tour, one can learn about the process of picking and roasting one’s own coffee.
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Copan Ruinas
Over one thousand years ago, Copan Ruinas was once the center of Mayan civilization. Here, one can witness some of the greatest Pre-Colombian artwork that is offered including ancient hieroglyphics. Nearby are many options for wildlife lovers including a bird sanctuary, butterfly house, as well as horseback riding and zip lining.
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Managua
The largest city of Nicaragua, and the capital of the country is the city of Managua. Learn about the city’s history from many different museums and cultural centers, then delve into the gastronomies created by the many different nationalities that have settled here including immigrants from the US, China, Germany, and Thailand.
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Granada
Granada is one of the oldest colonial towns in Nicaragua, where one can enjoy exploring a cloud forest atop Volcan Mombacho or see the smoke billowing from the active Volcan Masaya. Learn the history and the process of chocolate making at ChocoMuseo, or take a boat tour of the islets surrounding the area. Another top destination for Granada is Alhambra, an ancient Nasrid palace city.
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Arenal
Experience the excitement of visiting a 7,000 year old, active stratovolcano by visiting the Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica. Though it is now dormant, Arenal was the most active of Costa Rica’s seven active volcanoes until 2010. Its dense vegetation is also home to numerous species of wildlife.
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Panama City
The largest and most modern city in central America, as well as the capital of Panama, is Panama City. Within the city is the Panama Canal which links the Pacific and Atlantic oceans through a fifty-mile channel. Enjoy views of the canal via airplane or stay close to the ground and delight in a terrific view of Panama from Amador Causeway, connecting three islands to the mainland.
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Testimonials
Andy
Traveled February, 2012
I have had another fantastic trip
I have had another fantastic trip and am glad I chose to spend the whole 2 weeks in Panama rather than combine with another country as there is so much to see and do there. It is difficult to pick out the high points: the canal crossing was an ambition fulfilled; I had been a little apprehensive about San Blas but for no reason the cabins over the sea were amazing, Boquete was cool and the bird life wonderful. Tranquilo Bay in Bocas was exactly the right choice for me. The whole team was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable; they made my stay a real treat. I have so many photos I shall spend the next weeks sorting them! I didn’t get to see much of the Carnival but was treated to two firework displays from the view from my hotel window each night I am a big fireworks fan. I think this is the 6th trip I have taken with Yampu/Kontiki and so far they have all been wonderful. Thanks for organizing this one for me.
Traveled To
Greg B., United Kingdom
Traveled February, 2013
When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly
After working with Yampu to provide me with my second holiday to the America’s, I am delighted to say it has been another success. We have now travelled to Peru, Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras with routes dictated by my needs to see sites that may not be on other people standard routes. Yampu have twice worked with local providers to make my unique routes possible. When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly. I am already thinking ahead to my next trip with Yampu.
Traveled To
Cheryl
Traveled January 2016
Panama- It was seriously a great trip and I saw everything I wanted.
Our trip to Panama was seriously a great trip and I saw everything I wanted. We saw a bunch of kinkajous and cacomistles that came to our cabin at los quetzales. That place is magical, the bird life alone (we saw 6 quetzels, one even right outside our cabin) makes it worth a trip. Families would love these cabins and hands down the place had the best food in Panama.
Everything was made fresh and they had a huge organic garden with all kinds of vegetables, great for someone like me that does not eat meat.
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