- Guatemala Escorted Tours
- Journey through the Heart of Central America with Lake Atitlan Extension
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Journey through the Heart of Central America with Lake Atitlan Extension
17 Day Escorted Tour with 3 Day Extension
Guatemala, Latin America
21 Meals Included
14 Excursions
Active Pace
Embark on an extraordinary adventure through Central America, exploring six countries Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala. From the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, this tour showcases vibrant cultures, colonial cities, and stunning natural wonders,
Extend your journey with a visit to the captivating Lake Atitlan region. Explore the historic Iximché Archaeological Site, cruise the serene waters of Lake Atitlán surrounded by volcanoes, and immerse yourself in Maya Tz'utujil culture through art, tradition, and breathtaking vistas.
Highlights
- Visit the legendary Panama Canal, and watch ships navigate its intricate lock system up close
- Explore Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest, seeking out rare wildlife from the hanging walkways
- Discover Nicaragua’s colonial gem, Granada, with its vibrant architecture
- Visit the spectacular Mayan ruins of Tikal, set deep within Guatemala’s lush jungle
- Journey along El Salvador’s Ruta de las Flores, dotted with artisan towns, volcanoes, and scenic cloud forests
- Discover the ancient Iximché Archaeological Site, the former capital of the Cakchiquel Kingdom
- Cruise across stunning Lake Atitlán, surrounded by three majestic volcanoes
- Immerse yourself in Maya Tz'utujil culture with visits to local artists and breathtaking viewpoints
Map Key
Train
Coach
Boat
Airplane
Walking
1
Itinerary
Day 1
UK to Panama City
Depart the UK on an overnight flight to Panama City, the gateway to Central America.
Day 2
Panama City
Dinner
Arrive in Panama City in the morning and transfer to your hotel. Take the morning to relax before leaving for a tour in the afternoon. Begin by exploring the historic ruins of Panama La Vieja and admiring the beautiful bay views. Continue with a panoramic drive through modern Panama City, taking in its impressive skyline, the Cinta Costera, a public recreation area that runs along the bay and urban landmarks. Next, visit the beautifully preserved historic district of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its cobbled streets, admiring colonial-era architecture and vibrant plazas.
Day 3
Panama City
Breakfast
Today, immerse yourself in the vibrant sights and sounds of Panama, as you adventure into the Panama Jungle and Gatun Lake, part of the renowned Panama Canal. Cruise through the lake, keeping an eye out for monkeys, sloths, toucans and crocodiles. After exploring the lush rainforests surrounding Gutun Lake, enjoy a visit to the Miraflores Visitors Centre at the Panama Canal and discover the fascinating engineering and historical significance of this world wander. Watch ships navigate the locks and learn about the canal’s importance to international trade.
Day 4
Panama City to San Jose
Breakfast & Lunch
Fly in the early afternoon to San José, Costa Rica's bustling capital. En route to your hotel, visit a coffee plantation on the slopes of the Poás Volcano. Here, you can discover the art of coffee cultivation and enjoy a tasting of some of the region’s finest blends. The scenic backdrop of the volcano adds to the charm of this experience, providing a perfect introduction to Costa Rica's rich coffee heritage.
Day 5
San Jose to Monteverde
Breakfast
Travel through lush green landscapes to Monteverde, a haven for nature lovers. Check into your hotel for a two-night stay. In the afternoon, visit Treetopia Park, where you’ll explore the butterfly garden, home to a vibrant array of species fluttering amidst the lush foliage. Stroll along the hanging walkways through the cloud forest canopy, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. The elevated paths provide a unique perspective of the forest, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity and serene beauty of Monteverde. This experience promises to be both educational and awe-inspiring, as you witness the intricate ecosystems that thrive in this tropical paradise.
Day 6
Monteverde
Breakfast
Begin the day with a guided tour of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This biodiverse wonderland is home to unique flora and fauna, including the elusive resplendent quetzal. The reserve's misty environment creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for exploring the rich ecosystems that thrive here. In the evening, meet the family of one of Monteverde's pioneering settlers and hear fascinating stories of their experiences in this remote region. Their tales of resilience and adaptation offer a unique insight into the history and culture of Monteverde, enriching your understanding of this remarkable area.
Day 7
Monteverde to Granada
Breakfast
Depart Costa Rica for Nicaragua, crossing the border into this charming nation. Arrive in the historic city of Granada after a full-day journey. Overlooking Lake Nicaragua, this colonial city is known for its colorful architecture and serene atmosphere. The vibrant facades of Granada's buildings and the tranquil ambiance of the lakeside setting create a picturesque and inviting environment, perfect for exploring and unwinding after your travels.
Day 8
Granada
Breakfast
This morning, embark on a guided tour of Granada, where you will visit the San Francisco Convent, one of the oldest buildings in the city. Admire its impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. Later, take a tranquil boat ride through the canals formed by the lake’s small islands, created by volcanic activity. The serene waters and lush surroundings provide a peaceful and picturesque setting for your journey. In the evening, visit the Masaya Volcano, where you can gaze into its glowing lava lake, subject to volcanic activity. This awe-inspiring natural phenomenon offers a dramatic and unforgettable experience, showcasing the raw power and beauty of nature.
Day 9
Granada to San Salvador
Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Granada, taking in the city's charming atmosphere and vibrant architecture. This afternoon, fly to San Salvador, the bustling capital of El Salvador. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay, allowing you to relax and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Day 10
San Salvador
Take a day trip to the cobblestone streets of Suchitoto, known for its vibrant arts scene and colonial charm. Explore the town's galleries, craft shops, and historic buildings that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Continue to Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site often called the "Pompeii of the Americas," where a preserved Mayan village offers fascinating insights into ancient daily life. Later, follow the scenic Ruta de las Flores, visiting Cerro Verde National Park and enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes. The park's lush landscapes and diverse flora and fauna provide a perfect backdrop for your journey, making it a memorable experience.
Day 11
San Salvador to Copán
Breakfast & Lunch
Depart San Salvador, stopping at the artisan town of Ataco, known for its vibrant murals and local crafts, and the city of Santa Ana, with its impressive Gothic cathedral and bustling markets. Cross the border into Honduras and arrive in Copán, home to some of the most important Mayan ruins in the region. This long but rewarding journey reveals the cultural richness of Central America, offering a deep dive into its historical and artistic heritage.
Day 12
Copán
Breakfast
Explore the extraordinary Mayan ruins of Copán, renowned for their intricate stone carvings and hieroglyphic staircases. Your guided tour includes access to the archaeological park and its museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the ancient Mayan civilization. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to relax or further explore the charming town of Copán Ruinas, with its quaint streets, local shops, and inviting cafes. This blend of historical exploration and leisurely afternoon offers a perfect balance to your day.
Day 13
Copán to Livingston
Breakfast
Upon crossing into Guatemala, you will visit the UNESCO-listed site of Quiriguá, where you can marvel at the intricately carved Mayan stelae that stand as a testament to the ancient civilization's artistry and history. Continuing your journey to the Caribbean coast, you will embark on a scenic boat ride along the picturesque Río Dulce. As you glide through the serene waters, you will be surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Your destination is the Garifuna town of Livingston, renowned for its rich Afro-Caribbean culture and relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can immerse yourself in the unique traditions, music, and dance that define this charming coastal town.
Day 14
Livingston to Flores
Breakfast
Begin your day with a walking tour of Livingston, where you can explore the vibrant streets and experience the rich Afro-Caribbean culture firsthand. Afterward, embark on a boat trip along the lush Río Dulce, taking in the stunning scenery as you visit Bird Island, home to a diverse array of bird species. You will also have the opportunity to visit a local indigenous community, gaining insight into their traditions and way of life. Your journey continues by road to Flores, where you will stay for two nights at a lakeside hotel, offering a tranquil retreat surrounded by serene natural beauty.
Day 15
Tikal
Breakfast
Venture into the heart of the jungle to explore Tikal, one of the largest and most awe-inspiring Mayan archaeological sites. Here, you will discover towering temples, ceremonial plazas, and ancient causeways, all part of this UNESCO World Heritage site. After a morning of exploration, return to Flores for a leisurely afternoon, where you can relax and soak up the tranquil lakeside atmosphere.
Day 16
Flores to Antigua
Breakfast
Fly in the morning to Guatemala City and transfer to Antigua, a beautifully preserved colonial town set against a stunning backdrop of volcanoes. Enjoy a guided walking tour through its charming cobblestone streets, where you will visit landmarks such as the iconic Santa Catalina Arch and the ruins of historic monasteries and churches.
Day 17
Antigua
Breakfast & Dinner
Spend the day exploring Antigua at your own pace. Wander through the bustling markets, where you can find local crafts and fresh produce. Enjoy a coffee at a charming local café, soaking in the town's vibrant atmosphere. For a breathtaking experience, hike up to Cerro de la Cruz and take in the panoramic views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes.
Day 18
Antigua to Lake Atitlan
Breakfast
Depart Antigua for your Lake Atitlan Extension. En route, explore the fascinating Iximché Archaeological Site, once the capital of the Cakchiquel Kingdom and still a scared place for the Cakchiquel people to this day. As you continue your journey you'll find yourself traversing a dramatic change in elevation, with the road between Antigua and Lake Atitlan climbing to an impressive 3,000 metres above sea level – even higher than Machu Picchu! Check into your hotel, where your evening will be at leisure.
Day 19
Lake Atitlan
Breakfast
Embark on a scenic morning boat tour of Lake Atitlán, a stunning “caldera” lake formed by a volcanic explosion around 80,000 years ago. The lake spans 10 miles in diameter, reaches depths of 1,000 feet, and is encircled by three majestic volcanoes.
Your boat ride to San Juan La Laguna will take you to visit the Maya Tz'utujil People and engage with the local Community Tourism Committee, an organization we respect and support. This vibrant morning will immerse you in the culture of the community, visiting artists specializing in naïve paintings, wood carvings, and textiles. Watch the Tz'utujil women hand-embroider their beautiful tops with intricate designs of colorful birds and flowers. Then later, hike to a nearby viewpoint for breathtaking vistas of the lake.
Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 20
Lake Atitlan to UK
Breakfast
Transfer to Guatemala City Airport for your return flight to the UK or continue on an optional extension.
What's Included
International Return Flights
Hand-picked Accommodation
21 Meals
Overseas Transfers and Transport (as per itinerary)
14 Excursions
All entrance fees
ABTA & ATOL Protection
Special Offers
Use discount code TOUR232 at the checkout to save £232 per person on selected tours departing in October 2026 and November 2026
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Opening Times
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Your Next Adventure Awaits! We've been arranging award-winning, expertly crafted hoildays and tours since 1980. We're also ABTA protected and ATOL bonded for your total peace of mind. Call us today to book your next unforgettable holiday!
Accommodation
The hotels listed below are provided for guidance only and final confirmation of your accommodation will be sent to you approximately 21 days before you travel
Best Western Plus Panama Zen
2 nights
Panama City, Panama
Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici
1 nights
San Jose, Costa Rica
Important Information
The order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions or for operational purposes. The schedules of the domestic airlines in country are subject to frequent changes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them. The driving times listed are point to point and do not include the duration of excursions or stops en route. Some road construction and/or weather conditions may lengthen the driving times. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however, order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions.
If booking more than 12 weeks before departure a deposit of €342.20pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 12 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 12 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.
Panama
It is your responsibility to check your passport validity. To enter Panama your passport must: have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave. Sources of information include; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
A visa is not required for your trip to Panama, however further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity
Costa Rica
It is your responsibility to check your passport validity. To enter Costa Rica your passport must: have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 1 day after the day you plan to leave. Sources of information include; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
A visa is not required for your trip to Costa Rica, however further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity
Nicaragua
It is your responsibility to check your passport validity. To enter Nicaragua your passport must: have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave. Sources of information include; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
A visa is not required for your trip to Nicaragua, however further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity
Arrival and departure tax
You must pay an arrival tax of 10 US dollars in cash. There is also a departure tax of 35 US dollars, which is normally included in the price of your air ticket.
El Salvador
It is your responsibility to check your passport validity. To enter El Salvador your passport must: have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave. Sources of information include; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
A visa is not required for your trip to Nicaragua, however further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity
Honduras
It is your responsibility to check your passport validity. To enter Honduras your passport must: have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave, as well as 2 blank pages. Sources of information include; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
You must have a visa to visit Honduras, further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity, please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/honduras/entry-requirements for more details.
*Please note Visa crossing point is Octopeque.
*Please note that processing and reviewing the application may take up to 3 weeks. Therefore, it is highly recommended to submit your application with sufficient time to allow for proper processing.
Guatemala
It is your responsibility to check your passport validity. To enter Guatemala your passport must: have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave, as well as 2 blank pages. Sources of information include; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
A visa is not required for your trip to Guatemala, however further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations' Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity
Please note that final flight details, including terminal, airline and baggage allowance, will be confirmed on your final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure. A printed E-ticket is no longer required at check-in, all you need to do is present your passport to the staff at the desk and your boarding pass will be given to you.
If you wish to arrange Airport car parking or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras on 0333 188 0407, quoting HX313
We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras, including up to a 20% discount, which is given to all Mercury Holidays customers. To arrange your insurance with Holiday Extras, please visit https://www.mercuryholidays.co.uk/info/insurance for more details. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.
It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include www.fco.gov.uk, www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.
Important: Nicaragua requires the yellow fever vaccine for any passenger who stays one night or more in Panama. Passengers over 60 years old are exempt, but minors must have their yellow fever vaccination card. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year old arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. You must get the vaccine at least 10 days before travelling to an endemic area (tropical regions of Africa and Latin America), as protective immunity may not be achieved until this period has passed.
This tour is accessible to most people with a good level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves climbing steep stairs and getting on and off transport such as coaches and trains. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
Panama
The currency in Panama is the balboa. However, Panama doesn’t print its own paper currency and instead uses the US Dollar as legal tender. Therefore, US dollars are used as its main form of currency. Credit cards are also accepted as a form of payment
Costa Rica
The currency in Costa Rican is the colon. Prices in Costa Rica are frequently listed in US dollars, especially in hotels and restaurants, where you can expect to pay international prices. US dollars are widely accepted, and some ATMs dispense dollars. Credit cards are also accepted as a form of payment
Nicaragua
The currency in Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan Cordoba, however US dollars are widely accepted in stores and restaurants. Credit cards are also accepted as a form of payment.
El Salvador
El Salvador used the US Dollar. Most shops and restaurants in the major cities, particularly shopping centres accept major credit cards, but you will be required to display an ID card when you pay.
Honduras
The currency in Honduras is the Honduran Lempira. If you plan to take cash with you, you’ll need Honduran Lempiras. US Dollars are commonly accepted in Honduras, however in some establishments you may need to exchange them before using them, or you may be given Honduran Lempiras as change. Most major credit cards are also accepted as a form of payment, however some establishments may charge an additional fee or impose a purchase limit.
Guatemala
The currency in Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzals. The US Dollar is widely accepted in Guatemala; however, it is still recommended to have Guatemalan Quetzals on hand at all times, particularly smaller bills if you are visiting smaller towns, local restaurants and government operated tourist sides. Credit cards are also accepted as a form of payment in larger cities, restaurants and major tourist attractions; however some smaller stores, supermarkets and restaurants may only accept cash.
As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels as well as American Express.
You will need to take money with you to cover any personal purchases such as souvenirs, laundry, any meals not included in the itinerary as well as drinks and any additional snacks. Approximately £800/£900 per person will be sufficient for the duration of the tour. It is a good idea to try and maintain a supply of small notes and change in the local currency for tipping or small purchases.
Tipping
It is at your customary to tip both your driver and guide. We would recommend to tip approximately US$5.00 (£3) per person per day for the tour guide and US$3.00 (£2) per person per day for the driver. As tipping is at your discretion, please tip as and when you feel appropriate. Tips are accepted in any currency.
It is important that you budget carefully and ensure you have the right form of currency before you arrive. There are foreign exchange offices and cash machines available in most places during your tour. Your tour guide can assist you in each country with currency exchange. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels and some shops and restaurants; a charge is sometimes added for using them.
The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 10, and the maximum will be 35. If in the unlikely event there are less than 10 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.
This is an escorted tour meaning that you will have an English Speaking Guide who will greet you in each of the cities that you visit, during coach transfers and excursions, ensuring that you always have first-hand knowledge.
For your extension, all transfers are included, you will be with accompanied by English speaking driver and a local guide will be with you during excursions.
Your accommodation is selected for convenience, location, comfort or character. Hotel accommodation is generally rated as local three to four-star standard, but please note there is no international classification system for hotels, and differences in facilities and quality do exist between the UK and Central America. All group tours hotels have private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning, where needed. Rest assured that all accommodation used by Mercury Holidays is regularly inspected by our staff and partners to ensure that standards meet your needs.
Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. Dinner (when included) will be taken in local restaurants or at the hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours.
Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information.
It is important to note that drinking the tap water, even in developed counties, may contain unfamiliar elements that can cause upset stomachs. In less developed countries water is not filtered in the same way as the UK. On your arrival into Costa Rica, you will be given a reusable bottle to carry with you throughout your tour, filtered water will be available throughout your tour for you to refill your bottle.
On your arrival in Panama, you will be met by a representative from our local agent, Best Costa Rica, holding a sign displaying: “Mercury Holidays”. The Mercury Holidays/ Best Costa Rica representative will show you to your transfer vehicle. Your national guide will be on hand 24 hours a day should you have any queries.
If you need to contact your representative during your stay the details are:
Best of Costa Rica:
Contact number: 00506 2290 1302
E-mail: ventas@bestcostaricadmc.com
Please find below the emergency contact details for Best of Costa Rica Contact details:
24 hour telephone: 00506 8936 1212
24 hour email address: info@bestcostaricadmc.com
- T-shirts and cotton shirts
- Comfortable walking shoes such as trainers or hiking shoes
- Waterproof, light poncho or rain jacket
- Ruck sack or light bag
- Sunglasses, Sunscreen, insect repellent and hat
- Personal first aid kit containing travel pills, rehydration powder, plasters, stomach settlers, antiseptic creams, aspirin etc
- Camera and charger
- Refillable water bottle
- A Plug Adapter - The electricity supply is 120 volts and sockets of type A (two flat parallel pins) and B used (two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin).
