destination

Central America is a tropical fantasy of rugged landscapes, rare wildlife and vibrant cultures. With the addition of handsome colonial cities and the striking ruins of the Mayan and Aztec civilisations, this is an exciting region that should be on your radar.

The variety of dramatic landscapes on offer here is astounding, from coastline fringed with pristine beaches to cactus-studded deserts, snowcapped volcanoes and lush jungles littered with ancient ruins.

Head to Costa Rica, an adventure wonderland, for jungle-clad volcanoes, waterfalls and mist-shrouded rainforests filled with exuberant wildlife. Challenge yourself on the Costa Rica Traverse, our award winning multi-activity adventure that will see you hike, bike, kayak and raft your way across this incredible country.

Tour the spectacular ruined cities of Mexico’s pre-Columbian civilisations and discover culture, cuisine and history on the busy streets of Mexico City; experience the unique sights and sounds of Cuba, or head to Dominica to trek the Caribbean's first long distance walking trail.

Wander the cobblestoned streets of beautiful colonial cities, admiring striking cathedrals, quiet plazas and candy-coloured buildings; sample unique cuisines, shop for technicolour textiles and enjoy the hospitality of famously friendly locals.

Join us as we explore the highlights and hidden gems of Central America!

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Find your Central America trip

Central America destinations

 

Why travel with us

Leaders in Responsible Travel

Responsible Travel practice is at the heart of every program that we offer in Central America. When you book one of our adventures you’re supporting true sustainability in the protection of local communities, natural environments and wildlife.

World Firsts

We proudly pioneered the first commercial traverse of Costa Rica. Our unique Costa Rica Traverse crosses the country by foot, bike, raft and kayak and received global acclaim by being recognised as Outside Magazine’s Central America Trip of the Year in 2006.

Innovative Itineraries

Our Central American program is packed with unique itineraries and quality inclusions. From hiking in the wonderful but little-known Topes del Collantes in Cuba, to trekking the Waitukubuli National Trail in Dominica, or our classic journey linking five Central American nations, even the most experienced traveller will find inspiration within our range.

Fully Supported, Highly Inclusive

All of our Central American journeys are supported by well-maintained private vehicles, which means we can be flexible with our start times and stop off points. Carefully selected quality hotels, fascinating city tours, internal flights and most meals are all included to make your trip as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Expert Guides

Our guides in the field are what make your Central American experience special. They’re a passionate group of tourism professionals with extensive knowledge covering the long and varied history of civilizations that once occupied these lands, local ruins, the best walking trails and most authentic restaurants.

Responsible travel

Rainforest trails&#160;-&#160;<i>Photo:&#160;Sophie Panton</i>

Vibrant in colour, diverse in culture and rich in biodiversity the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Panama, Dominica and Cuba are brimming with adventurous opportunities. Sustainable tourism is being used in many of these countries as a tool to eradicate poverty, and so the opportunity for tourism to benefit all sectors of society is real. To minimise our impact on the natural environment we practice the '7 Principals of Leave No Trace', in addition to supporting local economies by employing guides and support staff from local communities. Our Animal Welfare Code of Conduct and Child Welfare Code of Conduct ensure the well-being of animals and children encountered on our adventures.

Accommodation

Hotels

In cities and large towns you will be accommodated in good 3 to 4 star properties that are generally centrally located, atmospheric, and reliable and where we have seen a good track record with traveller satisfaction.

Lodges

We use a variety of quality lodges throughout Central America. They are not luxury lodges but what they do offer is very comfortable accommodation which is well maintained with many facilities. Generally, the detailed trip notes that we have prepared for each trip will give you details of the types of properties we use on any one itinerary.

Camping

On many of our trips we will erect campsites in wilderness terrains. These feature two person tents, a dining tent and a portable toilet tent when permanent amenities are not available or their presence is ecologically unsound. The spacious tents, most of which you can stand up in, are well ventilated with insect nets.

Mountain huts

On occasion we may stay in mountain huts or cabins on our adventures. Expect these to be basic but comfortable and from time to time the sleeping arrangements are dormitory style – in keeping with the true mountain spirit!

Homestays

During homestays, a local family opens their home providing a wonderful insight into the local culture, cuisine and lifestyle. Expect simple but clean and comfortable communal lodgings with shared bathrooms and a warm reception from your hosts.

Leaders in the field

Juan Carlos

Juan was born on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica and spends most of his time trekking through the rain and cloud forests, mountain biking past sugar cane and coffee plantations or paddling the rapids of the Pacuare River. These natural arenas are perfect for multi-activity journeys which allow him to introduce active adventurers to the wonders of Costa Rican insects, birds and wildlife.

Sarah Higgins

Sarah joined World Expeditions in 2006 and became operations manager in 2010. South America is her second home and she has enjoyed many adventures in its beautiful landscapes. Her travels include ‘across the circle’ into Antarctica, among many others. When Sarah is not planning itineraries you’ll find her out on the ‘rock’ and in the Australian bush with her avid interest in rock climbing and bushwalking.

Greg Lee

There’s nothing Greg enjoys more than setting out in search of adventure in Latin America. This passion shines through in the breadth of unique adventures reflected in the fantastic line-up of trips on offer. Greg is drawn to the beauty of this region's scenery, fascinating history, varied cultures and most of all, its people.

Dr Ross Anderson

Dr Anderson lives with his wife in a small town near the Lakes District in the north of England. He is a family doctor and spends much of his spare time travelling as an expedition doctor. He has more than 10 years of altitude and travel medicine experience. Previous treks and expeditions have focused on the Himalayas, with others in the Scandinavian Arctic and mountainous areas of Africa. He also enjoys trail running, cycling and open-water swimming.

Custom made itineraries

A custom made itinerary is the ultimate way to see the world how YOU want. They are created especially for you, giving you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. If you love our current itineraries but want to customise it privately as a couple, a group of friends, family, club, business or school, you have the freedom to add or remove as many elements as you like to suit the interests of your group. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create a new and exciting itinerary from scratch! Our well-travelled consultants can give you firsthand suggestions and eliminate any uncertainty with trip planning to ensure you maximise the quality of your experience and get truly off the beaten track. Simply email, phone or visit us to start planning your dream adventure.

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