Private Tour Highlights
- Looking out for the Slaty-tailed Trogon, Keel-billed Toucan, Thick-billed Mot-Mot, and many more birds on a hike through Soberania National Park.
- Admiring the Panama Canal on a boat tour, navigating the Bay of Panama and Gatun Lake.
- Trekking the mossy, plant-lined trails of the beautiful La Paz Waterfall Gardens before venturing to the mighty Poas Volcano.
- Walking the hanging bridges and canopy walkways of the Arenal National Park, gaining a unique perspective on the forests below.
- Touring the colonial gem of Granada, one of the oldest cities in the Americas, getting lost in the ancient streets.
- Absorbing some of the most pristine wilderness and unforgettable landscapes of Nicaragua, during a visit to Ometepe Island.
- Visiting the ancient Maya Ruins of Copan, taking in the towering Hieroglyphic Stairways, expert stone masonry, manicured lawns and much more!
- Strolling through the cobblestone colonial town of Antigua, with its many ruined churches, convents and cathedrals rubbing shoulders with brightly-colored facades.
- Climbing to the summit of the Two-headed Serpent, a temple at Tikal which is 70m high and offers sublime views above the jungle canopy.
- Picturing life as a Mayan noble while stepping through the regal ruins at Tulum, perched dramatically on the cliffs above the Caribbean Sea.
Tour Overview
The Central America Honeymoon from Panama to Mexico will take you across Central America and north to Riviera Maya. Visit Panama, where you will follow the Panama Canal and visit the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. See the fireworks of Volcano Arenal and walk through the forest on hanging bridges in Costa Rica. In Nicaragua, visit Granada, boat around Lake Nicaragua and visit volcanoes Concepción, Masaya and Madera. We then take you to the Mayan ruins of Copán in Honduras, Tikal in Guatemala, and Chichen-Itza and Tulum along Riviera Maya in Mexico.
Inclusions
Please consult with a Yampu Tour Consultant for upcoming Panama Canal transit dates.
Package Price: From £$ 12250
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
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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 Panama 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
Flight to 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
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The first stop is at a local cafe where travelers will enjoy an authentic Costa Rican-style breakfast. Then visit a third-generation coffee plantation and learn how coffee is picked, milled, ground and roasted. Continue on 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 of La Paz Waterfall Gardens and allow the senses to be delighted 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 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 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.
Flight to 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.
Granada
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Excursion of Granada, one of the oldest cities in the Americas. Granada was founded in 1524 by Spanish captain Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba. Although being 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. Wrap up the trip on a boat ride through the beautiful islands of Lake Nicaragua. Lunch included. Overnight in Granada. ...read less
Ometepe
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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 of Nicaragua. The excursion starts by heading toward the southern part of the country, getting to San Jorge’s port where one will take a ferry to Ometepe, where travelers will be able to enjoy a spectacular view. Visit places like the pre-Columbian Museum, the Green Puddles lagoon, the great view of 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
Day of Leisure
Day of leisure to relax, visit the small fishing town of San Juan del Sur or unwind on the beach. Afternoon, transfer to Managua and transfer to the hotel.
Day of leisure to relax, visit the small fishing town of San Juan del Sur or unwind on the beach. Afternoon, transfer to Managua and transfer to the hotel.
San Pedro Sula
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San Pedro Sula. Upon arrival in San Pedro Sula, transfer to the hotel.
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San Pedro Sula. Upon arrival in San Pedro Sula, 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 the visit to 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 the visit to the Museum of Mayan Sculpture, lunch will be served at Nia Lola’s Restaurant (included). Overnight in Copan.
Horseback Ride
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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
Transfer to Antigua Guatemala
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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 please let Yampu know. ...read less
Half-day tour to 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 is living. 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 so wishes, they can 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, private transfer to Antigua for the evening ...read less
City of Tikal
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, one can perceive 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, one can perceive 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.
Cancun
Transfer to Flores airport for flight to Cancun. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
Transfer to Flores airport for flight to Cancun. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
Chichen-Itza
In the morning head to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.
In the morning head to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.
Tulum
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In the morning, head to the archaeological site of Tulum. Mounted on the edge of a cliff, this abandoned city towers above the deep turquoise of the Caribbean and a beautiful white sandy beach. Although the site dates back to earlier times, Tulum reached its peak in the Post-classic period between 1,000 and 1,600 AD. Originally called Zama or City of the Dawn, the sun rises from the sea above the city walls and for the ancient Maya, begins her dance across the sky. The city within the walls was only inhabited by the nobles, high priests and esteemed citizens such as astronomers whereas the lower classes lived in simple wood and thatch huts beyond. The buildings in the city were originally covered with brilliant paintings and carvings – stark white, deep red or vibrant blue, but only faint remnants of these now remain. ...read less
Day at Leisure
Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on one’s own or add additional optional activities.
Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on one’s own or add additional optional activities.
Flight Home
Transfer to the Cancun airport for the flight home or overlap with the add-on of choice.
Transfer to the Cancun airport for the flight home or overlap with the add-on of choice.
Panama City, Panama
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
Cancún, Mexico
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Places You'll See
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Playa del Carmen
With a distinctive European touch, Playa del Carmen is a relaxed coastal resort town that can be enjoyed in many ways. Enjoy snorkeling and diving while learning about the local aquatic creatures including the kind sunfish, chasing sardines or maybe glimpse the peaceful manatee. Aside from the aquatics, one can walk the cobblestone streets and enjoy the nightlife and shopping offered as well.
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Cancun
From historical relics of Mayan civilization, to sandy beaches, Cancun has it all. Visit El Meco, a substantial archeological site on the mainland, or The Interactive Aquarium of Cancun where you can get acquainted with all sorts of aquatic life, and even swim with dolphins. If an aquarium isn’t exciting enough, dive into the sea with some of Cancun’s best scuba diving instructors.
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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
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
Peggy S, Canada
Traveled December, 2013
Just wanted to let you know that we have had a fabulous time
Just wanted to let you know that we have had a fabulous time and are very impressed with your choice of hotels and areas. Because of this we would like to book through you a trip to Nicaragua for Dec 26,2013 for one week. All hotels were able to accommodate my dietary needs. We especially loved Lake Attilan and the hotel there. The guides were excellent except for the guide we had in Tikal. His name was Roni and he didn’t consider our needs but had his own agenda. After repeated requests for lunch, he delayed serving us lunch both days until 3PM. The trip to the temples was excellent in spite of him. He went into too much detail and his English was very hard to understand. The first day when arriving in Flores airport, we felt that we could have gone directly to the nature park, instead of driving 45minutes to the hotel,then a 45minute boat ride back to almost where we started to begin the walk. Otherwise the vacation was perfectly organized and I would like to thank you for that, Look forward to your proposal for Niaragua with top hotels. Happy New Year
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.
Traveled To