Cancun to Panama City Travel Pass
Cancun to Panama City Travel Pass
Cancun to Panama City Travel Pass
48 Days Starting in Cancun, Mexico and ending in Panama City, Panama
Visiting: Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar, Chetumal, Caye Caulker, Belize City, San Ignacio, Flores, Rio Dulce, San Agustín Lanquín, Panajachel, Iglesia de San Jorge La Laguna, Antigua Guatemala, Copán Department, El Tunco, León, Granada, San Jorge, San Juan del Sur, Monte Verde, Manuel Antonio, San José, Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Bocas del Toro, Panama City, San Blas Islands
Tour operator:
Tour code:
52241
Group Type:
Independent
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Partially Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Explore the best of Central America as you travel from Cancun to Panama City. Visit historic ruins, buzzing cities and stunning beaches on your way!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Cancun, Mexico
Location: Cancún
Chichen Itza Day Trip (roundtrip from Cancun) Departure Time: 4:00 Duration: 12 hrs Embark on a thrilling adventure to the heart of ancient civilization with this breathtaking early morning tour of Chichen Itza. Rise with the sun and beat the crowds as you delve into the rich history of this renowned archaeological site. With a specialized guide by your side, journey back in time as you explore the remains of this once powerful city. Discover the secrets of the Maya civilization and learn how Chichen Itza played a pivotal role in shaping their world from 600 AD to 1200. Marvel at the intricate details of this sacred site, still considered holy by the Maya people of the Yucatan today. Brave the jungle's lush terrain as you unearth the mystery of this lost city, protected by UNESCO and now listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With the cool morning air at your back and the warm sun at your face, this early morning tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Chichen Itza in a way most will never have the chance to. Please note: The government requires an additional fee for the use of mobile devices such as GoPros, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and drones at the ticket office. Get ready for a truly epic adventure!
Day 2: Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Location: Playa del Carmen
Cancun to Playa del Carmen Type: Bus Time: Every 30-45 minutes from 06:30 to 21:30 Duration: 1.2 Hours Transfer from Cancun to Playa del Carmen Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Playa del Carmen.
Day 3: Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Location: Playa del Carmen
Free Day Enjoy a free day to experience on your own
Day 4: Tulum, Mexico
Location: Tulum
Playa del Carmen to Tulum Type: Bus Time: 09:16, 09:25, 09:51, 10:00, 10:36 Duration: 1 Hours Transfer from Playa del Carmen to Tulum Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Tulum.
Day 5: Tulum, Mexico
Location: Tulum
Local Community & Cenotes by Bike Departure Time: 9:00, 15:30 Duration: 4 hrs Embark on an exciting adventure in the jungle in which we will ride the bicycles to go from one cenote to another! We will meet in Chemuyil, a beautiful town with incredible tranquility, and visit three exclusive cenotes of the local community. Each cenote is unique and special: one of them is a cave-type cenote, another is an open cenote like a natural pool, and the third one is an incredible cenote for underwater photos. From the meeting point to the first cenote is only 5 minutes and from the first cenote to the second is 5 minutes, so all the cenotes are very close to each other! NOTE: Please note outdoor activities carry risks, and you may be exposed to dangerous situations as part of this experience. Make sure you can participate safely given your abilities and the conditions (such as location, weather, and equipment).
Day 6: Bacalar, Mexico
Location: Bacalar
Tulum to Bacalar Type: Bus Time: 09:00, 10:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 17:00, 18:00, 20:00 Duration: 3 Hours Transfer from Tulum to Bacalar Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Bacalar.
Day 7: Chetumal, Mexico
Location: Chetumal
Bacalar to Chetumal Type: Bus Time: 00:15, 05:29, 06:00, 06:14, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 15:45, 16:00, 16:10, 17:00, 18:00, 19:15, 20:00, 21:00, 23:00 Duration: 1 Hours Transfer from Bacalar to Chetumal Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Chetumal.
Day 8: Caye Caulker, Belize
Location: Caye Caulker
Chetumal to Caye Caulker via San Pedro Type: Boat Time: 10:00 Duration: 3 Hours Transfer from Chetumal to Caye Caulker Please make your own way to the ferry terminal to catch your overwater transfer to Caye Caulker. Please keep in mind that check-in is 2 hours prior to Departure. *Note: The Ferry departs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays.
Day 9: Caye Caulker, Belize
Location: Caye Caulker
Free Day Enjoy a free day to experience on your own
Day 10: Caye Caulker, Belize
Location: Caye Caulker
Snorkel with Sharks & Rays Departure Time: 10:30, 13:30 Duration: 3 hrs Discover the unparalleled natural beauty of Belize's marine life with a snorkeling experience that you will never forget. On this half-day tour in Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, you will get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to snorkel along the reef in complete serenity. Navigate through mazes of pristine coral reef among schools of tropical fish, and even get the chance to swim with nurse sharks and stingrays. See all this and more at three different snorkeling stops along the magnificent local reef of Caye Caulker.
Day 11: Belize City, Belize
Location: Belize City
Caye Caulker to Belize City Type: Ferry Time: 6:30 to 17:00 Duration: 45 min Hours Transfer from Caye Caulker to Belize City Please make your own way to the ferry terminal to catch your overwater transfer to Belize City.
Day 12: San Ignacio, Belize
Location: San Ignacio
Belize City to San Ignacio Type: Shuttle Time: 13:30 Duration: 2.5 Hours Transfer from Belize City to San Ignacio Please make your own way to the meeting point to catch your transfer to San Ignacio.
Day 13: Flores, Guatemala
Location: Flores
San Ignacio to Flores Type: Shuttle Time: 15:00 Duration: 3 Hours Transfer from San Ignacio to Flores Please make your own way to the meeting point to catch your transfer to Flores.
Day 14: Flores, Guatemala
Location: Flores
Tikal Early Morning Day Tour Departure Time: 04:30, 06:00, 08:00 Duration: 8.5 hrs Depart Flores at 4:30 am this morning for your early morning experience to Tikal archaeological site. Walk among giant pyramids towering over 200 feet at dawn to feel the magical vibration of Tikal and its historic splendor. Listen to the jungle sounds of exotic birds, monkeys and small mammals and feel the humid jungle air on your skin as the Maya inhabitants of this site felt it 2000 years ago. Immerse yourself in the jungle at dawn for an early morning tour through the archaeological site to experience the jungle come alive as it wakes up at sunrise, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get in touch with nature and marvel at the majestic pyramids hidden away in the jungle. This magical ancient city is teeming with native flora and fauna. If you are lucky you may be able to spot a jaguar walking leisurely through the park, although large numbers of visitors have caused the wildlife to move further into the jungle away from the noise. Howler monkeys here are famous for their loud growling sounds which may surprise you from a tree top overhead. Keep an eye out for colorful birds throughout the park such as toucan, parrots, eagles and quetzals. Tucked away in the vast Peten Region that covers 222 square miles of lush jungle in the northwest corner of Guatemala lie the ruins of the most magnificent archaeological site and important Maya citadel in Mesoamerica. Tikal National Park, declared as a UN World Heritage Site in 1979, is the largest excavated archaeological site on the American continents and is one of the most important natural reserves of Central America. It is known that Tikal, meaning “Place of Voices” in Maya, was one of the most powerful cities of their era covering more than 16 square kilometers and dominating other tribes in the surrounding region as well as interacting with neighboring cultures as far as Teotihuacan in the Valle de Mexico. The site was estimated to house between 10,000 - 90,000 inhabitants before being abruptly abandoned over 1000 years ago. *If you prefer, you can purchase your entrance tickets at any Banrural bank in Flores the day before the tour to avoid waiting in line.
Day 15: Rio Dulce, Guatemala
Location: Rio Dulce
Flores to Rio Dulce Type: Shuttle Time: 08:00 Duration: 6 Hours Transfer from Flores to Rio Dulce You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Rio Dulce, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 16: Lanquin, Guatemala
Location: San Agustín Lanquín
Rio Dulce to Lanquin Type: Shuttle Time: 13:00 Duration: 7 Hours Transfer from Rio Dulce to Lanquin You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Lanquin, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 17: Lanquin, Guatemala
Location: San Agustín Lanquín
Semuc Champey & Kanba Caves Tour Departure Time: 09:00 Duration: 10 hrs Take a hike through the mysterious caves of Kanba (activity at your own risk) which are filled with extraordinary limestone formations distributed among an endless stretch of different chambers (so far, the end of the cave system has not yet been discovered) housing a sharp pointed rock altar where ancient Maya once performed sacred rituals. The Maya people of Guatemala continue holding spiritual ceremonies here and believe that the cave is the "heart of heaven" where the secrets of many centuries are held. Enjoy some free time to swim and go river tubing in the crystalline waters of Semuc Champey where there are natural pools filled with fresh mountain spring water above a 300-meter long limestone bridge. Flowing underneath the bridge is the Cahabón River where you will have time to swim in the cool waters in a beautiful natural surrounding immersed in native flora and fauna. At the end of the bridge you will visit waterfalls over 40-feet in height where the water from the pools rejoins the Cahabon River. The color of the water is constantly changing depending on factors such as the season, sun and rainfall, a characteristic of the national park that makes this place an idyllic and awe-inspiring setting to experience and take photographs.
Day 18: Panajachel, Guatemala
Location: Panajachel
Lanquin to Panajachel Type: Shuttle Time: 08:00 Duration: 11 Hours Transfer from Lanquin to Panajachel You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Panajachel, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 19: San Jorge La Laguna, Guatemala
Location: Iglesia de San Jorge La Laguna
Meals Included: Dinner
Maya Homestay Experience 2D/1N with Maya Communities Lake Tour Home Stay in San Jorge La Laguna Upon arrival at Avenida Santander Zona 2 (next to Hotel Dos Mundos), you will be given instructions on how to take a public bus from Panajachel to reach the village where your host family lives, San Jorge La Laguna. The home stay will give you a genuine insight into the everyday lives of a local family during your trip by staying one or more more nights with a family from the Kakchiquel Indigenous group in San Jorge La Laguna. Maya Experience Home Stays has started this home stay program in the village to give something back to the communities around Lake Atitlan, and also to give you a very genuine experience of living with a Maya local family to experience their culture and customs. This experience is very new to the village and families who welcome foreigners into their homes. As a responsible traveler, we as guests must be aware of and sensitive to the culture by behaving respectfully during our time with the family and in the village. Although shy at first, the villagers are very friendly and welcoming people. Make sure you ask permission to take photos of the people in the village since the Mayan community commonly believes a photograph will steal their soul. You will most likely find the housing situation in San Jorge La Laguna rather basic but the reason for partcipating in this home stay is to enjoy a real insight into Guatemala, so you can experience the culture firsthand and interact with the local community on a personal basis. We hope that you enjoy this very unique experience. A small gift for the family would be a nice gesture of appreciation for the family welcoming you into their home. Cooking or kitchen materials such as pasta, rice, sugar, fruit, vegetables or kitchen utensils are very much appreciated ($3 USD per person approx). Other materials from your home country or children's books (coloring, basic English, workbooks, almanacs) would be a great addition to the family library.
Day 20: Panajachel, Guatemala
Location: Panajachel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Maya Homestay Experience 2D/1N with Maya Communities Lake Tour Boat Tour of Lake Atitlan with visits to indigenous villages. Return to Panajachel You will have all the instructions on how to go from the Homestay to the meeting point. Then, you will hop in a boat for a tour of Lake Atitlan and a visit to its colorful indigenous villages. The word "atitlan" is translated from Maya as "the place where the rainbow gets its colors" and accordingly you will understand why so many people have been drawn to this magical lake for hundreds of years. Panajachel alone is an 800 year old town home to mostly Cachikel Maya and an increasing number foreigners from every corner of the globe, all coming together to soak up a piece of that serenity and originality that this place provides. You'll visit the following villages: San Pedro La Laguna, much like Panajachel has a large population of bohemian tourists and ex-pats, however the indigenous people of the town still preserve their original ways of life and wear traditional dress, remain very conservative and practice the same style of subsistence agriculture that their ancestors practiced years ago. Just outside of town coffee crops are cultivated on the mountain side and hard working farmers hike up and back on a daily basis to tend to their crops. Walk uphill towards the town center (away from the docks) and you will see a whole different side to this popular lakeside village. Santiago Atitlán is the largest of the communities around the lake with a population of over 32,000, 95% of which are indigenous Tz’utujils. Traditionally, it is fishing and farming town; it is also known for the manufacture of cayucos, wooden canoes. Directly from the dock, the main street leads visitors up to the main square where there is a vibrant and very lively indoor/outdoor marketplace where street hawkers target "gringos" as they wander by looking for good deals on original locally made souvenirs. Santiago is also home to a very interesting Maya/Catholic sacred statue called Maximon (also known as San Simon by the Spanish and Rilaj Maam by the Maya). All Guatemalan people worship this deity and go to him to ask for blessings or give offerings. During "Semana Santa" (Holy Week) in March/April, the statue is paraded around town and celebrations are held to worship this Guatemalan god. If you can, catch a glimpse of this interesting and very unique local custom. San Antonio Palopo is one of the most interesting villages around lake Atitlan and the best place to really get an idea for how these traditional indigenous towns used to feel. Walking through the village one can see people wearing intricately designed "huipiles" (woven tunics) and women weaving fabric made of wool and cotton. Take in the views of this tranquil town and imagine what the villagers' peaceful life is like living in adobe houses with tin roofs, farming and selling souvenirs to make a living. This is one of the best places to purchase a "huipil" traditional hand-woven tunic knowing that the profits are going straight to the villagers. You will be dropped off back in Panajachel when the tour is finished.
Day 21: Antigua, Guatemala
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Panajachel to Antigua Type: Shuttle Time: 12:00, 16:00 Duration: 2.5 Hours Transfer from Panajachel to Antigua You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Antigua, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 22: Antigua, Guatemala
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Pacaya Volcano Trek Departure Time: 14:00 Duration: 8 hrs Get up close and personal with an active volcano and brag to your friends about it. Hike up the Pacaya Volcano slope fo two hours and then trek onto dry lava that resembles a moon-like landscape. Look up to catch an eruption from the active volcano if you're lucky (depending on the activity of the volcano you may or may not see eruptions or lava). Take unforgettable photos in a landscape so surreal that you feel like you are walking on the moon. Admire the breathtaking landscape and views of neighbouring volcanoes peeking through the clouds around you. Take your time returning to the base of the mountain as you make your way down the slippery, muddy slopes. (Note: Horses can be rented for the trip up and back.) We recommend wearing comfortable trekking shoes and bringing a flash light and a walking stick (or rent one for a few dollars from local kids before you start your hike). It gets dark and steep on the mountain if you are going up in the afternoon. If you are travelling during rainy season bring a raincoat or poncho... you will definitely need it! Bring bottled water for the trek and some extra cash to buy snacks afterwards or pack a few power bars in your day pack to take with you.
Day 23: Copan, Honduras
Location: Copán Department
Antigua to Copan Type: Shuttle Time: 04:00 Duration: 6 Hours Transfer from Antigua to Copan You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Copan, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 24: Copan, Honduras
Location: Copán Department
Copan Mayan Archaeological Experience Departure Time: 08:00 Duration: None hrs At around 8:00 hrs, your guide will pick you up from your accommodation to start your tour of Copan, called the Mayan Paris. For many years, Copán Ruins have been famous for its magnificent Mayan ruins, declared by UNESCO as Archaeological World Heritage Site in 1980. The majestic archaeological site owes this name to what was, at the time, its avant-garde and colourful architecture. After seeing these spectacular ruins on a guided tour, you will continue through the sculpture museum, where you will find a life-size replica of the Rosalila temple. After the tour, you will be dropped back off at your accommodation.
Day 25: El Tunco, El Salvador
Location: El Tunco
Copan to El Tunco Type: Shuttle Time: 10:00 Duration: 6 Hours Transfer from Copan to El Tunco You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to El Tunco, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 26: Leon, Ni, Nicaragua
Location: León
El Tunco to Leon Type: Shuttle Time: 09:30 Duration: 14 Hours Transfer from El Tunco to Leon, NI You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Leon, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 27: Leon (Ni), Nicaragua
Location: León
Cerro Negro Volcano Boarding Departure Time: 13:00 Duration: 6 hrs Depart from Leon in the morning for an exciting and breathtaking adventure to nearby Cerro Negro Volcano. Hop on a 4x4 vehicle to reach the base of the volcano and prepare for your hike up to make your ascent to the top. Take in the magical scenery and landscapes from the peak of the volcano that affords sweeping views of the lush surrounding forests and the multi-coloured active crater. Enjoy your ride down the slopes of the volcano on a sled that will bring you to the base of the volcano. Take a moment to catch your breath and relax in nature to recover. Share your photos of this unforgettable experience with your new friends as you make your way back to your hostel.
Day 28: Granada, Ni, Nicaragua
Location: Granada
Leon to Granada Type: Shuttle Time: 08:30 Duration: 4 Hours Transfer from Leon, NI to Granada, NI You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Granada, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 29: Granada (Ni), Nicaragua
Location: Granada
Isletas Day Trip Departure Time: 10:00 Duration: 3 hrs Start off the day at 03:00 pm with your knowledgeable local guide who will take you to the shore of Lake Nicaragua for a boat ride to see the Islets. Observe a wide variety of flora and fauna such as playful monkeys and colorful birds that inhabit the jungle-covered islets in the lake. Enjoy the scenery and the serene atmosphere as you immerse yourself in nature in this beautiful pristine landscape. Return to your hostel at 06:00 pm and enjoy the rest of the afternoon to yourself to discover the colonial town of Granada.
Day 30: San Jorge, Nicaragua
Location: San Jorge
Granada to San Jorge Type: Shuttle Time: 12:00 Duration: 2.5 Hours Transfer from Granada, NI to San Jorge You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to San Jorge, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 31: Ometepe, Nicaragua
Location: San Jorge
Meals Included: Dinner
Ometepe Homestay 2D/1N Transfer to Ometepe Today, you will board a ferry from San Jorge to Ometepe. Once there, one of our representatives will pick you up and take you to your homestay. Upon arrival, you will have time at your leisure to explore the area.
Day 32: San Jorge, Nicaragua
Location: San Jorge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ometepe Homestay 2D/1N Ometepe Hiking Experience At around 06:00 we will leave the homestay in Ometepe accompanied by our guide. We will take the main path of the community until we reach the main road, later we will go into a path where we will be able to observe precious wood trees, chaff monkeys, the Concepción Volcano landslide and much more vegetation. We will make various stops along the path and as we go up we will be able to contemplate the impressive view of the island, and we will reach the crater at about 1610 meters above sea level. At this point, we will not be able to stay more than 15 minutes, since the crater is the product of the gases that the volcano emanates and it can be toxic. Then, we will begin the descent. It is important to mention that between the ascent and the descent, it will take us around 8 hours, for those who do not wish to climb to the highest peak, they can stay at the viewpoints that are located on the same path and stay at 300 or 600 meters above sea level, which reduces the time. For this activity it is essential to bring at least 3 liters of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks, a scarf to cover your mouth when you reach the crater, long pants (no shorts), a jacket and a flashlight (in case the descent is falling at night). After the hiking experience, you will take the ferry back to San Jorge.
Day 33: San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua
Location: San Juan del Sur
San Jorge to San Juan del Sur Type: Shuttle Time: 14:00 Duration: 1 Hours Transfer from San Jorge to San Juan del Sur You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to San Juan del Sur, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 34: Monteverde, Costa Rica
Location: Monte Verde
San Juan del Sur to Monteverde Type: Shuttle Time: 06:00 Duration: 7 Hours Transfer from San Juan del Sur to Monteverde You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Monteverde, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 35: Monteverde, Costa Rica
Location: Monte Verde
Monteverde Canopy Zip-line Departure Time: 8:00, 11:00, 14:00 Duration: 3 hrs Monteverde is a paradise for adventure lovers. You will get your adrenaline running with one of the best Canopy tours (Zipline) of Costa Rica. Swing through the treetops on a zip line tour along 14 different cables. You will feel the excitement on the big Tarzan swing, the 30 meters rappel, the Superman Cable measuring 1 kilometre in length, and the Underground Superman Cable through a 175 meters long tunnel. During the tour, you will observe some beautiful views of the area from the 75-150 meters high cables. To reach the major heights, mix the extreme adventure together with the majestic forest and admire the rich natural beauty of the forest and its treasures. If you're lucky, catch an awesome view of the Pacific Ocean and Lake Nicaragua on a clear day. Observe over 100 species of mammals, over 400 species of birds (including 30 kinds of hummingbirds), tens of thousands of insect species and 2,500 species of plants (including 420 kinds of orchids) in one of Latin America's most outstanding wildlife reserves. Keep your eyes open to catch a glimpse of diverse and beautiful wildlife including the jaguar, ocelot, Baird's tapir, three-wattled bellbird, bare necked umbrella bird and the famous quetzal.
Day 36: Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Location: Manuel Antonio
Monteverde to Manuel Antonio Type: Shuttle Time: 08:00 Duration: 4 Hours Transfer from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Manuel Antonio, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 37: Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Location: Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio National Park Day Trip Departure Time: 7:00, 12:00 Duration: 3 hrs Manuel Antonio is perhaps the most popular national park in all of Costa Rica, attracting more than 160,000 visitors annually to visit its tranquil white sand beaches and turquoise waters tucked away in mangrove swamps in the rainforest. Walking along the main trails that lead you through this majestic forest, you can see over 100 different types of animals, including white-faced monkeys, squirrel monkeys known locally as "mono titi", sloths, coatimundis and howler monkeys along with lizards, iguanas, crabs, marine life and over 180 bird species. The Main Trail (1.3 miles) is the most popular and most frequented trail, taking you through a short loop of the park to the beaches. The Punta Catedral Trail takes you a bit further off the beaten track and out to the Cathedral Point for beautiful look out points. Visit the Playa Gemelas and Punto Escondido Beaches by following a trail of the same name for 1 mile and lastly for the most spectacular views of the park, take the Mirador Trail (a slightly more difficult trail a little less than a mile) to a beautiful overlook point. Enjoy the day wandering down endless trails into a naturally pristine refuge and feel that you are thousands of miles away from civilization.
Day 38: San Jose, Costa Rica
Location: San José
Manuel Antonio to San Jose Type: Shuttle Time: 08:00, 12:30 Duration: 4.5 Hours Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San Jose You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to San Jose, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 39: San Jose, Costa Rica
Location: San José
San Jose Bites & Sights Experience Departure Time: 9:00, 11:30 Duration: 4 hrs On this San Jose tour you’ll get up close and personal with Costa Rican life, through architecture, history, food, and more! Nothing could get you closer to authentic San Jose than strolling through the streets with a local as they show you the ins and outs of daily life. Take a wander through the city with us on this tour that takes typical San Jose and turns it into a local experience you’ll never forget. Your San Jose food tour starts with a morning pick-up point, where you can get to know your local guide and relax into your surroundings. From here you’ll take a stroll through the park, enjoying the views of the Yellow House, or Foreign Ministry, as you go, and learning more about the park itself, which is the oldest in the city and also known as Expression Park. You’ll visit a number of landmarks in this area, including the National Liquor Factory and the Metal Building, two 19th century buildings that play an important role in the history of San Jose. Your guide will give you all the local knowledge about what these landmarks mean to the city, and its citizens, giving you exclusive insights in what makes San Jose tick. Your San Jose walking tour continues through Parque Nacional for yet another taste of San Jose’s rich history, before you head back into contemporary Costa Rican life and towards the Central Market. While seeing the sights and architectural gems of San Jose will help you get to know the city better, on this tour you’ll use another sense – taste – to get you even more in tune with San Jose. There’s no better place in San Jose to experience the local cuisine than the Central Market, a 120-year old building full to the brim with typical Costa Rican food and drink. Here you can sample local delicacies, learn about the herbs used in local medicines, or simply sip on your second rich and smooth Costa Rican coffee of the day. The Central Market is an experience that no visitor the San Jose should miss, and with a local guide by your side you’ll unearth all the secrets behind this San Jose treasure. The Central Market will be the last stop on this San Jose tour, and by the end you’ll be full of local knowledge (and perhaps even some local lingo!), giving you the full San Jose experience that is sure to be a highlight of your time in this vibrant city.
Day 40: Tortuguero, Costa Rica
Location: Tortuguero
San Jose to Tortuguero Type: Shuttle + Boat Time: From 5:15 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. with whole group Duration: 6 Hours Transfer from San Jose to Tortuguero You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Tortuguero, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 41: Tortuguero, Costa Rica
Location: Tortuguero
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tortuguero National Park Adventure 2D/1N Depart from San Jose to Tortuguero and start your activities After breakfast we will continue driving on the shuttle and then transfer to a boat for the final leg of the journey into Tortuguero National Park, a pristine nature reserve and an important nesting site for green sea turtles. Along the way we will provide you with a brief introduction to the banana plantations. This afternoon you may go on an optional walking tour of the Museum and the town to learn about the local culture (not included). Depending on the season, tonight you can also participate in an optional night tour (not included), which consists of a boat trip to Tortuguero National Park followed by walking on the beach to observe the nesting of the Giant Green Sea Turtle (available only from July to October). Overnight in Tortuguero.
Day 42: San Jose, Costa Rica
Location: San José
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Tortuguero National Park Adventure 2D/1N Tortuguero Boat Walking Tour - Boat and Shuttle to San Jose Rise early again this morning to go on a boat tour to visit some areas of the park and admire breathtaking nature. Return to your accommodation for breakfast and to pack up your belongings for check-out before taking your transfer back to San Jose at 9:00 hrs. Have lunch on the way (budget package does not include lunch) and arrive in San Jose around 15:30 hrs.
Day 43: Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Location: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Tortuguero to Puerto Viejo Type: Shuttle + Boat Time: 10:00 Duration: 4.5 Hours Transfer from Tortuguero to Puerto Viejo You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Puerto Viejo, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 44: Bocas Del Toro, Panama
Location: Bocas del Toro
Puerto Viejo to Bocas del Toro Type: Shuttle + Boat Time: 06:00, 08:00, 12:00 Duration: 4 Hours Transfer from Puerto Viejo to Bocas del Toro You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Bocas del Toro, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Day 45: Panama City, Panama
Location: Panama City
Bocas del Toro to Panama City Type: Flight Time: 11:40, 14:30 Duration: 1 Hours Transfer from Bocas del Toro to Panama City Please, make your own way to Bocas del Toro International Airport to catch your flight to Panama City.
Day 46: San Blas Islands, Panama
Location: San Blas Islands
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
San Blas Yanis Island Budget Experience 3D/2N Transfer from Panama City to San Blas Islands You will be picked up at your accommodation in Panama City early this morning and take an exciting ride through the jungle on 4x4 transportation. We will then make a stop to pass through immigration formalities and pay the entrance fees to Kuna Yala Islands (not included). We will continue our way to the dock where you will meet your boat to take a shared transfer to your island. Note: Please note that there will no longer be a stop at the supermarket to avoid unnecessary time loss and to be able to arrive at the port as soon as possible. Therefore, we encourage you to purchase supplies to take with you to the island (snacks, drinks, water) the day before the tour.
Day 47: San Blas Islands, Panama
Location: San Blas Islands
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
San Blas Yanis Island Budget Experience 3D/2N San Blas Islands Tour Enjoy a fresh breakfast with the sounds of the waves on the shore before going on an exciting tour. Afterwards, if time permits, opt to swim or snorkel around your island in the crystal clear turquoise waters to spot colourful tropical fish among coral reefs or simply spend time relaxing on a hammock. You can also hire a boat and visit a traditional Kuna Yala village of this archipelago, where you can purchase handmade souvenirs to contribute to the community (optional activity at extra cost, inquire upon arrival). Spend the evening watching the horizon turn different shades of red and pink as the sun sets over the Caribbean.
Day 48: Panama City, Panama
Location: Panama City
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
San Blas Yanis Island Budget Experience 3D/2N Transfer from San Blas Islands to Panama City Say goodbye to your piece of natural paradise this morning for your scenic one-hour return trip to the dock by boat and 4x4 transportation ride back to Panama City, and be dropped off at your accommodation in the afternoon.
What's Included
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Accommodation
5N mixed accommodations
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Transport
Cancun to Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen to Tulum
Tulum to Bacalar
Bacalar to Chetumal
Chetumal to Caye Caulker via San Pedro
Caye Caulker to Belize City
Belize City to San Ignacio
San Ignacio to Flores
Flores to Rio Dulce
Rio Dulce to Lanquin
Lanquin to Panajachel
Panajachel to Antigua
Antigua to Copan
Copan to El Tunco
El Tunco to Leon
Leon to Granada
Granada to San Jorge
San Jorge to San Juan del Sur
San Juan del Sur to Monteverde
Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio to San Jose
San Jose to Tortuguero
Tortuguero to Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo to Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro to Panama City -
Meals
6B/7L/6D
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Activities
Chichen Itza Day Trip (roundtrip from Cancun)
Local Community & Cenotes by Bike
Snorkel with Sharks & Rays
Tikal Early Morning Day Tour
Pacaya Volcano Trek
Copan Mayan Archaeological Experience
Cerro Negro Volcano Boarding
Isletas Day Trip
Monteverde Canopy Zip-line
Manuel Antonio National Park Day Trip
San Jose Bites & Sights Experience
Homestay, lake tour
Homestay experience
Maya communities lake tour (Boat trip around Lake Atitlan, Visit to indigenous communities San Pedro La Laguna, Santiago Atitlan and San Antonio Palopo)
Ometepe Hiking Experience with professional guide
Semuc Champey & Kanba Caves Tour
Tortuguero boat and walking tours -
Guides
Certified local tourist guide for some of the activities
What's Not Included
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Other Meals / Drinks
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Accommodations where not mentioned
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Accommodation pick-ups / drop-offs
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Travel Insurance
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Entrance Fees where not mentioned
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Tips & Gratuities
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Personal Expenses
Mode of Transport
Travel from Cancun to Panama City using a variety of transportation methods including buses, shuttles, ferries, boats, and flights, ensuring a comprehensive and scenic journey through Central America.
Accommodation
Enjoy 5 nights of mixed accommodations, including homestays and local lodgings, providing a genuine insight into the everyday lives of local families and communities.
Check out our Q&As
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What types of transportation will be used during the Cancun to Panama City Travel Pass?
The tour includes a variety of transportation methods such as buses, shuttles, ferries, boats, and flights, ensuring a comprehensive and scenic journey through Central America.
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What kind of accommodations can I expect on this tour?
You will enjoy 5 nights of mixed accommodations, including homestays and local lodgings, providing a genuine insight into the everyday lives of local families and communities.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as a Chichen Itza Day Trip, Local Community & Cenotes by Bike, Snorkeling with Sharks & Rays, Tikal Early Morning Day Tour, Pacaya Volcano Trek, Copan Mayan Archaeological Experience, Cerro Negro Volcano Boarding, Isletas Day Trip, Monteverde Canopy Zip-line, Manuel Antonio National Park Day Trip, San Jose Bites & Sights Experience, Homestay experiences, Maya communities lake tour, Ometepe Hiking Experience, Semuc Champey & Kanba Caves Tour, and Tortuguero boat and walking tours.
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Will there be any guided tours during the trip?
Yes, there will be certified local tourist guides for some of the activities.
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What should I bring for the Pacaya Volcano Trek?
It is recommended to wear comfortable trekking shoes and bring a flashlight and a walking stick (or rent one for a few dollars from local kids before you start your hike). If you are traveling during the rainy season, bring a raincoat or poncho. Also, bring bottled water for the trek and some extra cash to buy snacks afterwards or pack a few power bars in your day pack.
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What can I expect during the Maya Homestay Experience?
The homestay will give you a genuine insight into the everyday lives of a local family by staying one or more nights with a family from the Kakchiquel Indigenous group in San Jorge La Laguna. You will experience their culture and customs firsthand. The housing situation is rather basic, but it offers a real insight into Guatemala. A small gift for the family, such as cooking or kitchen materials, or children's books, would be a nice gesture of appreciation.
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What is the San Blas Yanis Island Budget Experience?
The San Blas Yanis Island Budget Experience is a 3-day, 2-night tour where you will be transferred from Panama City to the San Blas Islands. You will stay on the island, enjoy meals, and have the opportunity to swim, snorkel, or visit a traditional Kuna Yala village. The tour includes a scenic return trip to Panama City.
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Are there any optional activities during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities such as a walking tour of the Museum and the town in Tortuguero, and a night tour to observe the nesting of the Giant Green Sea Turtle (available only from July to October).
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Is there an age limit?
No! Most of our bamba travellers fall between the ages of 18 - 35, but everyone is young at heart and welcome to come experience the world with us! If you are between the ages of 18 and 118, we invite you to travel with bamba and have the time of your life! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Most of our trips cater to the adventurous independent traveller. In fact, many of our travellers arrive on their own and quickly find that they easily meet like-minded people along the way at their hostels, on transportation, or during activities.
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Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip, especially when travelling in developing countries. Bamba does not include travel insurance of any type.Your current medical insurance may cover part of your trip, so it is important for you to become familiar with your current coverage. We recommend purchasing additional travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and repatriation, lost or stolen items and unforeseen cancellations. If you plan to participate in activities such as white-water rafting, trekking, sand-buggy rides, etc please make sure they are included in your policy.
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Bamba Travel allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Bamba Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bamba travel, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Bamba Travel requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bamba travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.