Border information: if you are starting in Panama City, you will most likely enter Panama at Panama City Tocumen International Airport (IATA code: PTY). There will be an important group meeting at 6:00pm at the joining hotel - please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting. Until the meeting, the rest of the day is free to explore the busting Panamanian capital. Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Panama City before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Panama City. If you are continuing on from Cartagena today then your leader in Colombia will assist you with transport to the airport for your included flight to arrive in Panama in time for the joining meeting. In Panama City we will stay in a comfortable hotel.

Activities(Optional)
Visit Panama City's Museum of Contemporary Art, one of the best collections of works by local artists in Panama - Cost: USD 5
Freely explore the unrestored ruins of Panama Viejo, the original colonial settlement that was founded in 1519 and sacked by pirates in 1671 - Cost: USD
Freely explore the streets and beautifully-restored colonial buildings of Casco Viejo, the old district of the modern city of Panama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Cost: USD
See the Panama Canal Museum in the city centre, featuring excellent exhibits about the famous waterway - Cost: USD 5
Visit the phenomenal Biodiversity Museum in Panama City, a striking and iconic building containing a wonderful celebration of the flora and fauna of Panama - Cost: USD 22

Today we will drive to the Miraflores Visitor Centre at the world-famous Panama Canal, learning all about its controversial history and incredible role in shaping trade and world politics in the 20th century.  We will then continue to Chagres National Park and explore the Grandfather of the Panama Canal: the Camino Real, a cobblestoned road from the Caribbean to the Pacific through the rainforests of Panama, established as the transport route of Gold and Silver by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th Century. The Camino Real was rediscovered only recently, and we will visit and stay overnight at a community, which worked together with researcher Christian Strassnig to identify the original route of the Camino Real in the jungle. At Alajuela Lake we take a dugout boat to observe the remains of the Camino Real at the lakeshore, before heading to our Community stay to enjoy a typical Panamanian lunch and see then a presentation of authentic folklore.   We will then hike some of the Camino Real, see the original cobblestone and be fascinated by stories of the mule trains, gold and pirates. Approximate walking distance: 3km Estimated time: 2hrs  (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors - flexibility is essential on any overland trip!).

Activities(Included)
We will have an included hike on the Camino Real, and a community based overnight stay, with all meals included.  
Visit the world-famous Panama Canal at the Miraflores Visitors' Centre, and learn all about the fascinating history of this controversial structure

After early morning coffee we can go for an optional birdwatching hike on a trail with plenty of tropical birds, followed by a hearty breakfast. Afterwards we will drive up into the Chiriqui highlands, arriving at the town of Boquete. Estimated Drive Time - 6-7 hours. On the following day we will have a free day to take part in some of the many optional outdoor activities which the town is famous for, including the opportunity to take the strenuous trek to the 3,478m summit of Volcán Barú, the highest point in Panama. In Boquete we will stay in a local hostel, with a mixture of private rooms and dormitories.

Activities(Optional)
Head out on an exhilarating white-water rafting expedition on the Chiriqui Viejo river near Boquete, one of the world's best rafting areas with 35 world-class runs to choose from - Cost: USD 65
Head out on a tour of some of the fascinating coffee plantations around the Chiriqui Highlands near Boquete - Cost: USD 30
Trek up to the summit of Volcán Barú, at 3,478m the highest point in Panama - please note this is a strenuous trek and usually takes approximately 8-12 hours, so you will need to be in decent physical condition to participate - Cost: USD 80
Take a dip in the excellent Caldera hot springs near Boquete - Cost: USD 3
Freely explore the beautiful gardens and parks around Boquete and its surroundings - Cost: USD
Take a day trip out to Boca Brava on the Pacific coast, where you can swim, kayak, snorkel and relax on some of the stunning beaches there - Cost: USD 75
Head out on a quad bike tour of the mountains, forests and coffee plantations near Boquete (driver's licence required) - Cost: USD 55
Go on a half-day rock climbing trip to the basalt cliffs near Boquete, one of Panama's best climbing destinations - Cost: USD 45
Take a fascinating bird-watching trip into the Chiriqui Highlands, one of the most abundant areas of birdlife in the Americas - Cost: USD 50
Enjoy a fantastic short canyoning trip through the gorges of Gualaca near Boquete - Cost: USD 25
Trek the famous Quetzal Trail through the cloud forests of the Chiriqui Highlands, or trek to various waterfalls in the rainforest - Cost: USD 35
Explore the spectacular Caldera Highlands around Boquete on horseback, riding through rainforests and local farms and coffee plantations - Cost: USD 35
Head on an excellent 12-line zip-lining course through the cloud forests near Boquete - Cost: USD 65

Border information: Exit Panama at Paso Canoas, enter Costa Rica at Paso Canoas Today we will drive across the border into Costa Rica, and arrive at the spectacular beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast. Estimated Drive Time - 3-5 hours. On the following day we will have an included guided walk through some of the beautiful trails within park, learning all about its flora and fauna and immersing ourselves in the idyllic landscape. We will have free time in the afternoon to take part in some optional activities or relax on the wonderful beaches. In Manuel Antonio we will stay in a hostel near the beach, with a mixture of private rooms and dormitories.

Activities(Optional)
Head out on a wonderful quad biking trip through the tropical countryside of Manuel Antonio and Quepos - Cost: USD 40
Take a guided walk through the stunning trails of Manuel Antonio National Park, finishing at the world-class tropical beaches where you can swim and relax - Cost: USD 16
Take an exhilirating trip to the rainforests near Quepos to enjoy an incredible zip lining course - Cost: USD 40
Explore the ocean on a catamaran sailing trip, heading out in search of dolphins, tropical fish and turtles and witnessing an unforgettable offshore sunset - Cost: USD 40
Explore the mangroves of Manuel Antonio by boat or by kayak, in search of rainbow boas, crocodiles and various water birds - Cost: USD 20
Head on an exhilarating guided jet ski trip on the Pacific Ocean near Manuel Antonio - Cost: USD 40
Explore the stunning cattle ranches, fruit plantations and palm trees of the countryside near Manuel Antonio on a horse riding trip - Cost: USD 30
Go on an incredible white-water rafting trip on the Naranjo and Savegre rivers near Manuel Antonio National Park - Cost: USD 40
Take a paddle-boarding lesson to explore the secluded beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park - Cost: USD 20
Explore the rainforest canopy and its incredible wildlife and landscapes on a wonderful canopy bridge course near Manuel Antonio - Cost: USD 30
Join a scuba diving trip to explore the reefs and underwater volcanic rock formations in the oceans near Manuel Antonio - Cost: USD 50
Try your hand at surfing on a short lesson in Manuel Antonio National Park - Cost: USD 10

Today we will drive to the town of Tilarán, where we will leave our overland vehicle behind and transfer by taxi to the dense cloud forests and coffee plantations of Monteverde, a stunning area offering an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours. On the following day we will have an included guided walk on the trails of the Monteverde Cloud Forest National Reserve, followed by a free afternoon to visit some of the town's highlights or enjoy some adventurous activities such as canyoning or horse riding. In Monteverde we will stay in a local hotel.

Activities(Optional)
Take a guided trek to explore the stunning forest trails of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, learning all about the fascinating and beautiful ecosystem there - Cost: USD 20
Explore the stunning forests and banana plantations of Monteverde on a horse riding trip - Cost: USD 25
Fly above the cloud forests and valleys of Monteverde on an exhilarating zip-lining course - Cost: USD 50
Explore the incredible cloud forests of Monteverde at the tree-top level on a 3km canopy bridge circuit - Cost: USD 30
Learn all about the cultivation and processing of the world-renowned coffee of Costa Rica at one of the many incredible coffee plantations near Monteverde - Cost: USD 35
Head out to the cloud forests of the Santamarias Reserve to explore the area by night, when much of the elusive local wildlife comes out - Cost: USD 23
Take a spectacular canyoning tour near Monteverde, including abseiling down 6 different waterfalls! - Cost: USD 50
Visit the fantastic Butterfly Gardens of Monteverde, and learn all about the abundant bug-life of Costa Rica's cloud forests - Cost: USD 10
Learn about Costa Rica's spectacular amphibians at the Monteverde Frog Pond  - Cost: USD 13
Visit the Bat Jungle exhibition in Monteverde, learning all about the various bat species of the area from an expert guide - Cost: USD 10
Explore the magnificent Monteverde Orchid Gardens, home to over 400 species of orchids found in the region - Cost: USD 10
Take an exhilarating off-road quad biking trip around the stunning countryside of Monteverde (driving licence required) - Cost: USD 70

Today we will continue by taxi and boat to La Fortuna, a stunning town under the shadow of the mighty Arenal volcano.  Estimated Drive Time - 3-4 hours. On the following day we will have a free day to take optional treks through the incredible surrounding volcanic landscapes or forest canopies, or get involved in many different adventure activities such as zip-lining, white-water rafting, and canyoning. La Fortuna is also famous for its outstanding hot springs, which we will have the opportunity to visit. In La Fortuna we will stay in excellent cabanas outside of town.

Activities(Optional)
Witness incredible views of the famous Arenal volcano, looming high above the town of La Fortuna - Cost: USD
Take a fantastic white-water rafting trip on the Balsa or Sarapiqui rivers near La Fortuna, some of the best rafting areas in Costa Rica - Cost: USD 69
Take a kayaking trip on Lake Arenal, giving you the best views of the behemoth volcano of Arenal and an opportunity to spot many species of birds - Cost: USD 65
Head out for an evening at the spectacular volcanic hot springs complex of Baldi near La Fortuna - Cost: USD 34
Explore the breathtaking forests and volcanic landscapes of La Fortuna on several mountain biking trails in the area - Cost: USD 75
Take a intense canyoning trip into the rugged gorges of the jungles near Arenal, including several waterfall abseils - Cost: USD 100
Learn all about the intricacies of Costa Rican cuisine on a cooking class in La Fortuna - Cost: USD 45
Learn all about the plants, animals, traditions and agriculture of Costa Rica on a visit to the El Bosque Eco-Farm near La Fortuna - Cost: USD 45
Explore the stunning countryside and lush forests of the Arenal region by foot, where there many excellent guided trekking options - Cost: USD 55
Visit the hanging bridge courses through the rainforest canopies near La Fortuna - Cost: USD 67
Explore the magnificent countryside and waterfalls around the Arenal volcano by horseback - Cost: USD 65
Head out on an incredible zip lining course in the rainforests surrounding La Fortuna - Cost: USD 55

Border information: Exit Costa Rica at Peñas Blancas, enter Nicaragua at Peñas Blancas This morning we drive across the Nicaraguan border and to the small town of San Jorge on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, Central America's largest lake. Here we will board a ferry to the stunning volcanic island of Ometepe, where we base ourselves in the port village of Moyogalpa and enjoy free time to explore on arrival. Estimated Drive Time - 4-6 hours. On the following day we will have free time to explore and take part in optional activities such as the challenging trek to the summit of the Concepción volcano that dominates the island, or seeing some of the mysterious ancient petroglyphs that are dotted through the landscape. On Ometepe we will stay in a small local hotel.

Activities(Optional)
Climb to the summit of the Madera volcano on Ometepe Island (please note that although this is an easier trek than up Concepción volcano, it is still a very strenuous hike and you need to have a high level of fitness to complete it - the trek usually takes between 7-9 hours) - Cost: USD 42
Head on a guided walk around Ometepe, and see some of the natural springs, beaches, and small villages on the island - Cost: USD 30
Trek to the summit of the iconic Concepción volcano that dominates over the island of Ometepe (please note that this is a very strenuous trek that will only be possible for those with a high level of fitness and in good shape - the trek is over 1000m of ascent and descent on rugged terrain, and will take between 9-12 hours). - Cost: USD 40
Trek up to the stunning San Ramón waterfall in the forests near Madera volcano - Cost: USD 40
Learn about the fascinating history and geology of the island at the Ometepe Museum in Altagracia village - Cost: USD 3
Freely explore the mysterious pre-Columbian petroglyphs scattered around the island Ometepe - Cost: USD
Visit the mystical and serene emerald-green lagoon of Charco Verde - Cost: NIO 20

Today we will take the ferry back to San Jorge to rejoin our overland vehicle and take a short drive to Nicaraguas's oldest city of Granada, a beautiful town which oozes with colonial charm! We will have free time to explore the city upon arrival. Estimated Drive Time - 2-3 hours. On the following day we will have free time to explore the historic streets of Granada's old town, or take part in some of the myriad of optional activities that are available here.   In Granada we will stay in a centrally-located hostel, which has a mixture of private and dormitory rooms.

Activities(Optional)
Visit the incredible San Francisco Convent and Museum in Granada, the oldest building in Central America dating from 1585 - Cost: USD 2
Freely explore the spectacular buildings and atmospheric streets of the old colonial city of Granada - Cost: USD
Trek up the beautiful dormant volcano of Mombacho near to Granada, exploring its rugged terrain and dwarf forests - Cost: USD 55
Learn about the cultivation of cocoa and its manufacture into chocolate at the Choco Museo in Granada - Cost: USD 13
Take a boat or kayak trip around the beautiful Isletas de Granada, in search of the local birdlife and the magnificent views of the surrounding volcanoes - Cost: USD 25

Today we drive to the university town of León. En route we will have an included visit to the traditional markets in the small town of Masaya, and witness the incredible active caldera of the nearby Masaya volcano (if its volcanic activity isn't too high). Estimated Drive Time - 4-5 hours. On the following day we will have free time to explore the town's wonderful colonial architecture or to take part in the many optional activities available here. In León we will stay in a centrally-located hotel.

Activities(Optional)
Freely explore the charming colonial city of León and its incredible old buildings including the Cathedral of the Assumption, the largest cathedral in Central America - Cost: USD
Visit León's many museums and galleries, such as the world-class Ortiz-Gurdián art museum, the Gallery of Heros and Martyrs, and the Museum of Legends and Traditions - Cost: NIO 20
Enjoy a fun and unique trip out to 'sand board' down the ash slopes of the Cerro Negro volcano - Cost: USD 30
See the bizarre volcanic mud pools of San Jacinto near León - Cost: USD 18
Trek up the impressive active Telica volcano near León (please note that this is a fairly strenuous trek and you will need to be in good physical shape to participate - the trek usually takes about 6-7 hours) - Cost: USD 50
Head to the fantastic modern visitor centre at the world-famous Flor de Caña rum factory - Cost: USD 35
Visit the ancient ruins of León Viejo, the original settlement built by the Spanish before the town was moved in 1610 - Cost: USD 35
Explore the stunning mangroves and wild sandy beaches of the Juan Venado Natural Reserve on a kayaking trip out of León - Cost: USD 35
Head out on a horse riding trip in the stunning countryside near León, including views of the impossibly-circular crater of El Hoyo volcano and the beautiful Asososca lagoon - Cost: USD 40
Visit the dramatic crater rim of the active Masaya volcano between León and Granada - Cost: USD
Visit the traditional markets in Masaya village, famous for its local handicrafts - Cost: USD
See a fascinating workshop in the village of San Juan de Oriente, demonstrating various local pottery-making techniques - Cost: USD

This morning we will drive to the Somoto Canyon, where we will have an included Canyon tour, or village tour if you prefer. We will stay in dorm rooms within a small village. Approximate Driving Time - 212km / 5hrs

Border information: Exit Nicaragua at Las Manos, enter Honduras at Las Manos. Today we will have a a full day's drive across the border into Honduras and to the beautiful countryside of Lake Yojoa. In Lake Yojoa we will camp for the night in the grounds of a lodge and brewery. Estimated Drive Time - 9-11 hours.

Today we will take a short drive to the town of San Pedro Sula and board a short local flight to Roatán, the largest of the famous tropical Bay Islands. On arrival we will transfer to the area of the West End Bay, where we base ourselves for our stay.  Estimated Drive Time - 3-4 hours. On the following 2 days we will enjoy lots of free time to take part in the wealth of optional activities available on Roatán, and of course to relax and swim on the stunning Caribbean beaches here! In Roatán we will stay in a local hotel near the beach.

Activities(Optional)
Head out scuba diving to the beautiful coral reefs off the coast of Roatán - Cost: USD 50
Head on an epic underwater expedition in a unique private submarine, exploring the dark depths hundreds of metres under the surface of the ocean - Cost: USD 500
Rent sea kayaks to explore the magnificent Caribbean waters surrounding Roatán island - Cost: USD
Go on a spectacular snorkelling trip around the highlights of Roatán, such as the Blue Channel and St. Anthony's Key - Cost: USD 30
Head out on a guided tour of Roatán, seeing some of the most beautiful spots on the island and learning all about its history - Cost: USD 65
Sail out on a deep sea fishing trip in the Caribbean waters near Roatán (price for the entire boat with a maximum occupancy of 4 passengers) - Cost: USD 90
Go out horse riding across the stunning island of Roatán, through its wonderful eco-system of cacti, palms and orchids - Cost: USD 40
Take an exciting zip lining course on Roatán island - Cost: USD 45

Today we will start early to transfer back to Roatán's airport and catch our flight back to the mainland, rejoining the bus! We will then continue our journey west through Honduras, arriving at the small village of Copán. Estimated Drive Time - 4-5 hours. On the following day we will have an included guided visit to the spectacular Mayan ruins of Copán, followed by a free afternoon to explore some of the other highlights in the area. In Copán we will stay in a local hotel.

Activities(Optional)
Enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent ancient Mayan ruins of Copán - Cost: USD
Visit the Macaw Mountain Bird Sanctuary in Copán, home to many rescued birds such as macaws, toucans and kingfishers - Cost: HNL 200
Visit the beautiful old Mayan stone carvings of Los Sapos, with fantastic views over the town of Copán - Cost: HNL 30
Visit the Copán Butterfly Gardens, a serene garden bursting with tropical plants and dozens of moths and butterflies flitting about! - Cost: HNL 115

Border information: Exit Honduras at El Florido, enter Guatemala at El Florido. Exit Guatemala at Anguiatú, enter El Salvador at Anguiatú. Today we will have a full day drive into Guatemala and then through to El Salvador, arriving at the beautiful town of Suchitoto. In Suchitoto we will stay in dormitory rooms at the Centro Arte Para La Paz community centre, which runs many programs for the local communities to build cultural identity, unity, teaching skills, self-sufficiency, environmental equality and a culture of peace. Estimated Drive Time - 8-10 hours. On on second day we will have the chance to explore the town with its cobbled streets and whitewashed houses.

Activities(Optional)
Spend the night at the wonderful community centre of Centro Arte Para La Paz in Suchitoto, which runs many workshops and projects for the locals in the area - Cost: USD

Today we will drive to the stunning Cerro Verde National Park, where we will be surrounded by awe-inspiring volcanoes and countryside. In the afternoon we will take a guided hike up the Santa Ana Volcano. In Cerro Verde National Park we will camp with basic facilities. Estimated Drive Time - 4-5 hours.

Activities(Included)
Trek up to the summit of Santa Ana, El Salvador's highest volcano in the heart of Cerro Verde National Park

Activities(Optional)
Visit the spectacular volcanic landscape of Cerro Verde National Park, one of El Salvador's gems - Cost: USD

Border information: Exit El Salvador at La Hachadura, enter Guatemala at Ciudad Pedro de Alvarado. Today we will cross the Guatemalan border to arrive in the stunning colonial city of Antigua. The rest of the day is free to explore the beautiful colonial city and its dramatic surroundings. In Antigua we will stay in a delightful colonial hotel. Estimated Drive Time - 6-7 hours.

Activities(Optional)
Take a trek up to the famous active volcano of Pacaya near Antigua - Cost: USD 79
Visit the Choco Museum of Antigua, learning all about the history of the culinary use of cocoa ever since the Mayan period - Cost: GTQ 120
Walk up to the Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint to get unrivalled vistas over the town of Antigua - Cost: USD
Visit the old Jesuit church of Santo Domingo, an iconic building in Antigua and home to six fascinating museums - Cost: GTQ 40
Learn all about the culture and history of Antigua at some of its museums, such as the Museum of Ancient Books and the Museum of Colonial Art - Cost: GTQ 30
Take a tour of the nearby small village community of San Lorenzo, and visit its schools and traditional handicrafts (only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays) - Cost: GTQ 250
Head out on an exciting exploration of the forests and farmlands surrounding Antigua on a mountain biking trip - Cost: USD 45
Head on a challenging trek up the Fuego or Acatenango volcanoes near Antigua (please note that both these treks are very strenuous and only those in excellent physical shape will be able to participate) - Cost: USD 59 - 99
Visit a traditional coffee plantation in the cool hills surrounding Antigua - Cost: GTQ 200
Participate in a local handicrafts workshop in a village near Antigua, learning traditional weaving, cooking, or woodworking skills - Cost: GTQ 200

Border information: if leaving in Antigua, you will most likely exit Guatemala at Guatemala City La Aurora International Airport (IATA code: GUA). Today is the end day for passengers finishing their trip in Antigua. Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight - please contact the Sales Team if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.