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.
Tour Overview
Explore Central America highlights in Yampu’s Unmissable Natural and Historic Highlights of Central America Tour. Begin in Panama, including a Panama Canal transit, and visit 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. Our trip ends in Guatemala with a visit to historic Antigua Guatemala, Lake Atitlán and the mystical Maya city of Tikal.
Inclusions
Please consult with a Yampu Tour Consultant for upcoming Panama Canal transit dates.
Package Price: From £$ 10933
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
Overnight Flight
Upon arrival in Panama City, transfer to your hotel.
Upon arrival in Panama City, transfer to your hotel.
Soberania National Park and Gamboa Resort
Mini-hiking read more...
Mini-hiking and aerial tram ride: Soberania National Park and Gamboa Resort
Depart from Panama City early in the morning for Soberania National Park and world-famous Pipeline Road, the right place for birdwatchers and ecologists. It was site of the 1985 world record Panama Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count (385 species of birds were identified in 24 hours). During World War II, a pipeline was built to transport fuel from one ocean to the other. Fortunately, it was never used. Today, the road built to maintain the pipeline provides excellent access to primary forest within Soberania National Park with the comfort and safety of vehicle support. After this short hike, head to Gamboa Rainforest Resort. There, be taken into an aerial tram, which takes travelers from the shadowy rainforest floor through the understory and into the sun-drenched canopy. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of a thousand hues of green interspersed with the fluorescent exclamation points of flowering trees. The aerial tram is located in 100 hectares of rainforest licensed to Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Here is where travelers will find exuberant flora and fauna typical of Panama’s neo-tropical forests. The resort has built five exhibits that showcase local flora and fauna as well as a replica of an Embera Indian village. Afterwards, be transferred back to the hotel. The tour includes: transportation and entrance fee to Soberania National Park. Overnight at Gamboa Resort.
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Partial Canal Transit
Pick-up read more...
Pick-up from Gamboa for a partial Canal Transit
This trip departs from the Flamenco Marina, traveling from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. Travelers will be able to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City’s splendorous skyline, and later on, pass under the Bridge of the Americas. At Miraflores Locks, the vessel will ascend 54 feet in two distinct steps. Travelers will then enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Pedro Miguel from Miraflores Locks. Next, the Pacific Queen will enter Pedro Miguel Locks, which is one of the two sets of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel will be raised the last 27 feet to get into Gatun Lake. Once at Gatun Lake, sail through at the north end of the Gaillard Cut, where the Chagres River flows into the Canal. The Gaillard Cut is also known as Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake and is one of the main points of interest for visitors because it was carved through the Continental Divide. In addition, the vessel will travel the Cut’s 13.7 kilometers on the way to the Panama Canal Dredging Division in Gamboa where passengers disembark and transfer back to Note: Exact itinerary may vary, depending on where the transit starts.
Panamanian Night Tour
Enjoy an oasis of flavor and folklore characteristic of the countryside and taste delicious Panamanian-style dishes in comfortable and elegant surroundings at Las Tinajas Restaurant, located in the center of Panama City. Includes transfer to and from hotel, typical Panamanian dinner, cover charge, service charge and dance show. Available only on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
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Flight to Costa Rica
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San José de Costa Rica. Upon arrival in San José, transfer to the hotel.
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to San José de Costa Rica. Upon arrival in San José, transfer to the hotel.
La Paz Waterfalls, Poas Volcano and Coffee Plantation Private Tour
First read more...
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 you 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 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 is an amazing view from the 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 one through the butterfly observatory, the hummingbird garden and the waterfall trails. After a 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.
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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.
Granada
Excursion read more...
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 city 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. You can take a carriage to visit interesting places and appreciate the beautiful architecture of Granada. We will end our trip on a boat ride on the beautiful islands of Lake Nicaragua. Lunch included. Overnight in Granada. ...read less
San Jorge Port
Early read more...
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. Head back to the port to take the ferry and transfer to San Juan del Sur. ...read less
Day at Leisure
Day of leisure to relax or visit, on one’s own, the small fishing town of San Juan del Sur or relax on the beach. Afternoon, transfer to Managua and transfer to the hotel.
Day of leisure to relax or visit, on one’s own, the small fishing town of San Juan del Sur or relax 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 Copán, an artistic city during the Mayan age. Visit the Copán 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 Copán.
Transfer to Copán, an artistic city during the Mayan age. Visit the Copán 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 Copán.
Copan
Guided read more...
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
Transfer read more...
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 this 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 a Yampu travel consultant know. ...read less
Half-day tour to Santiago Atitlan
Be read more...
Be picked up from the hotel for a scenic boat ride across the lake, passing by the three impressive volcanoes of Toliman, Atitlán 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 wishes, they can ask their 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 overnight. ...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, listen to the sounds of the rain forest with 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 with 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.
Flight Home
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Guatemala City to connect for departing flight home.
Transfer to the airport to take the flight to Guatemala City to connect for departing flight home.
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
Guatemala City, Guatemala
Places You'll See
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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.
Hotel Options
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Testimonials
Katy B
Traveled March, 2012
I would like to return to Costa Rica soon
We had a great time. The Parador was beautiful; the staff was very friendly. The food was also very fresh. All of the activities were very fun; I think the ATVs were the favorite by consensus. We were able to see a lot of animals on the nature walk, including: sloths, monkeys, iguanas, etc. The beaches were also very nice, and the weather is beautiful during the dry season. Thanks for your help with the trip; I would like to return to Costa Rica soon and possibly try out some new activities.
Traveled To
Julie and Don
Traveled May, 2009
We found Guatemala to be a wonderful place to visit
Thank-you again for your wonderful help with planning our personalized tour of Guatemala! Everything went as planned, and we were able to meet-up with my sister, and even got to attend two of her quartet concerts! It was a very enjoyable and memorable experience! We would like to express our appreciation for all of the hard work that you and your staff performed on our behalf. We found Guatemala to be a wonderful place to visit inasmuch as we were able to see such beautiful scenery and nature juxtaposed against the terrible current and after effects on a society that has endured such tragedies as civil wars, foreign incursions (from America, etc.) and yet, despite it all, we experienced nothing but graciousness and warmth from the Guatemalan people we met. The services of the drivers and guides were exceptionally good and the accommodations were all wonderfully memorable. Yes, you may use our e-mail comments on your website for other clients to read. Thank you for being in the business of making such a trip possible. Thanks again to You and all at 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