Day 1 | San Jose

Upon arrival in Central America, we will meet our bus driver and local guide and embark on a journey to our hotel in San Jose for the first evening. For those not too tired, there will be an opportunity to explore the city center after dinner.

Day 2 | San Jose - Poas Volcano - La Paz Waterfall

This morning, we will head to one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica, Poas Volcano, located just an hour's drive from the capital. Poas is known for its interesting volcanic activity and unique rainforest surroundings, with coffee plantations at its base and distinctive rainforests near its summit. After touring the volcano area and enjoying the breathtaking view of the smoking Poas Volcano, we will continue our journey to La Paz Waterfall Nature Reserve. The reserve includes a wildlife sanctuary serving as a rescue center for injured animals, such as jaguars and numerous colorful butterflies that are hard to find elsewhere. Additionally, there is a wonderful walking trail passing through small bridges within the jungles leading to the impressive La Paz waterfalls. After the tour, we will return to San Jose for overnight and dinner in a local Costa Rican brewery.

Day 3 | San Jose - Tortuguero Nature Reserve

This morning, we will leave the capital city of San Jose and embark on a scenic drive along the Caribbean coast in the northern part of Costa Rica. Upon reaching the beautiful Tortuguero Nature Reserve, we will explore the world of wildlife in the park, known as a sanctuary for high-altitude animal populations. Between the shores of the reserve, thousands of sea turtles, discovered by American sea turtle researcher Archie Carr in the early 1950s, nest every year to lay their eggs. Today, due to the conservation efforts by the local government, around twenty thousand turtles nest in the area annually. Upon arrival at the nature reserve, we will take a boat tour through the water canals leading to our ecological lodge. After settling in, we will visit the Caribbean village of Tortuguero, get to know the local population, and spend the night in the Tortuguero Nature Reserve.

Day 4 | Tortuguero - "Frog's Paradise" - Arenal Nature Reserve

In the morning, we will further explore the rich wildlife of the rainforests surrounding Tortuguero Nature Reserve, known for its diverse frog species. During the morning tour in the rainforests of the reserve, we will enter the jungles on a motorboat, searching for the reserve's monkey, sloth, iguana, and dozens of exciting exotic animals. In Tortuguero Nature Reserve, there are over 300 bird species, 60 butterfly species, 57 amphibian species, and more. After the tour in the reserve, we will leave the Tortuguero area and continue to another nature reserve, the Arenal Nature Reserve. On our way to the next reserve, we will stop at the "Frog's Paradise," a fascinating family project established in 2009 near the town of Sarapiqui, becoming one of the country's main tourist attractions. Here, a captivating farm breeds various endemic frog species that have found the optimal breeding conditions in this region. During the reserve tour, we will encounter various frog species and learn about the unique family project at the Frog's Paradise. From here, we will proceed to the Arenal Nature Reserve, situated at the foothills of the Arenal Volcano, next to the picturesque town of La Fortuna and near Arenal Lake. Arenal Volcano is considered one of the most active volcanoes globally, and in July 1968, it erupted for three days, claiming dozens of lives. As a result of the volcanic activity, craters were formed, some of which now serve as hot springs. Upon arrival in the Arenal Nature Reserve area, we will check into our hotel and participate in an activity at one of these hot springs. Overnight and dinner in Arenal Nature Reserve.

Day 5 | Arenal Nature Reserve - Monteverde Cloud Forest

We will start the morning with tours in the Arenal Nature Reserve, one of the main tourist attractions in Costa Rica. In this geographical area, tropical rains refresh the land, keeping it moist and green throughout the year. The surrounding valleys of the Arenal Volcano are filled with natural vegetation, flowing rivers, hot springs, lagoons, wildlife, and national parks. We will begin our visit to the reserve with a visit to the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall, a result of the historical eruption of the Arenal Volcano. From here, we will continue to the ancient village of La Fortuna, a place rich in history, culture, and tradition. We will learn about coffee cultivation and Costa Rica's role in the international coffee industry, exploring the farming methods of the villagers. Next on our itinerary is the next stop on our journey to the "Green Mountain," Monteverde. Upon reaching the Monteverde region, we will visit the tourist town of Santa Elena, stroll through its unique streets, and settle into a special lodge nestled in the heart of the rainforests. In the evening, we will embark on a night tour with flashlights to get to know the jungle creatures actively moving during the nighttime, especially the local bat and reptile populations, identifiable by their glowing eyes. Overnight and dinner in the Monteverde region.

Day 6 I Monteverde Reserve - Cloud Forest Tour - Manuel Antonio

This morning we will explore the first and well-known nature reserve in Costa Rica: Monteverde Reserve. After breakfast, we will enter the misty cloud forest and follow trails that lead into the jungle areas of the amazing rainforests. During the tour, we will observe the unique climbing plants of the reserve and walk along paths lined with trees whose trunks are adorned with endless epiphytes, sometimes blooming with marvelous orchids. After the initial familiarization route, we will embark on one of the significant experiences in our Costa Rica trip: the canopy tour, the sky walk, a wonderful experience that allows us to explore the dense rainforest canopy from treetop walkways, providing an overhead view of the rainforest. During the canopy tour, we may encounter the Resplendent Quetzal, the national bird of neighboring Guatemala, distinguished by its long and green tail. Following the canopy tour, we will visit a cocoa plantation where we will participate in the preparation of local cocoa paste, used in the days of the Mayan Empire. After exploring the "Green Mountain" area, Monteverde, we will journey through the beautiful green landscapes towards the Pacific Ocean shores to reach Manuel Antonio Reserve, considered one of the most beautiful and fascinating places in Costa Rica. Accommodation and dinner in the Manuel Antonio area.

Day 7 I Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve

A wonderful day dedicated to exploring the beautiful Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve. Tours in this stunning reserve are a combination of lounging on tropical beaches and visiting amazing viewpoints, alongside walking trails among the unique wildlife inhabiting the reserve. The wildlife population in the park includes various monkeys, sloths, different species of raccoons, and a wide variety of tropical birds and more. After the fascinating zoological tour, we won't miss the opportunity to swim in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean. We will learn about the fascinating mangrove phenomenon and the four beaches that make up the Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve. We will enhance our experience of the nature reserve with a boat ride to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Accommodation and dinner in Manuel Antonio.

Day 8 I Manuel Antonio - Tarcoles - San Jose - Guatemala City

This morning we will leave the paradise of Manuel Antonio and travel towards the capital city: San Jose. On our way to the airport, we will stop by the wide Tarcoles River, where we will learn about the natural population of crocodiles in their natural habitat. During the boat ride, we will learn about the unique and ancient creatures while observing water birds nesting along the wide riverbanks. We will continue to San Jose Airport, from where we will depart to the second part of our journey: this time to Guatemala. Landing in Guatemala City and settling in for accommodation and dinner in the colonial city.

Day 9 I Guatemala City - Quiriguá - Livingston

This morning we will leave the capital city, Guatemala City, and travel along the Caribbean Sea coast to Quiriguá, the archaeological site of Quiriguá: a site that contains the largest stone inscriptions related to Mayan culture. Quiriguá is one of the smaller Maya cities, but also one of the important ones in the context of Mayan culture, thanks to its collection of gigantic monuments. Here, there are nine stone inscriptions arranged around the central square, accompanied by altars sculpted in zoomorphic shapes (representing different animals). The tallest stone, Tablet E, rises over 11 meters. The ruins here have not been fully restored, but the hieroglyphs on the inscribed stones and the number of altars tell a fascinating story about the relationship between Quiriguá and the neighboring city of Copan. From here, we will continue to the town of Puerto Barrios, where we will embark on a boat trip to Livingston, a town surrounded by jungles, most of its residents being descendants of escaped African slaves who settled on the Caribbean coast in the 18th century. The town features colorful wooden houses and an economy based on fishing and coconut cultivation. We will learn about the unique story of the town's residents, descendants of the Garifuna culture, descendants of both Indians and black slaves. In the evening, we will enjoy a combined dinner with a folklore performance by the town's residents, proud of their unique culture. Accommodation in Livingston.

Day 10 I Livingston - Rio Dulce - Tikal

This morning, we will take a boat trip down the Dulce River towards the Caribbean Sea. Upon reaching the wide connection with Lake Izabal, we will observe the colonial fortress of San Felipe, an important fortress that defended the Spanish fleet from sea pirates. During the boat trip, we will also enter small canals branching off from the main river and observe people living on the water's edge. After the boat trip, we will travel north to the jungles of the Peten region. In the afternoon, we will sail on Lake Peten Itza to enjoy a romantic and beautiful sunset in the area. Accommodation and dinner in the Tikal area.

Day 11 | Tikal - Flight to Guatemala City - Antigua

Today's journey is dedicated to Tikal, the largest of the Mayan sites located in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle. With over 3,000 ancient structures scattered across an area of about 5 square kilometers, including temples, ceremonial sites, and bathhouses, Tikal provides clear evidence of the legendary power of the Tikal kingdom. During the tour, we will climb the pyramids, visit temples, palaces, and explore the rainforest. The important structures of the city were built between 550-850 AD, influenced by architectural styles of neighboring Mexican cultures, particularly the Teotihuacan civilization. The city's existence was first reported by a Spanish monk named Andrés de Avendaño, but its official discovery is credited to Governor Modesto Méndez in 1848. Initially hidden deep within the jungle, Tikal was fully uncovered during extensive archaeological excavations, revealing structures still covered by large sand mounds and dense vegetation characteristic of the surrounding jungle. In the evening, we will fly to Guatemala City and travel to Antigua for accommodation.

Day 12 | Pacaya Volcano - Villages near Antigua - Antigua

In the morning, we will explore Pacaya Volcano, one of the four active volcanoes in Guatemala. After reaching the site, we'll either ride horses or hike to almost the summit, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Descending from the peak, we will visit villages near Antigua, including "San Felipe Aguacatán," known for its market specializing in textiles and crafts. Later, we'll explore "San Juan del Obispo," famous for one of Guatemala's first Catholic churches, where the first bishop of Guatemala resided. After touring the surroundings, we'll return to Antigua, one of the most beautiful cities in Latin America. We'll stroll through its charming streets, influenced by Baroque architecture, visit the colonial square "Plaza de Armas," Antigua's beautiful church, and the Captain's Palace that served as the government building until 1773. We'll explore the colorful houses and cobblestone streets, visit ancient churches, and human sculpture squares before returning for the night in Antigua.

Day 13 | Chichicastenango Market Day

This morning, we'll journey to Chichicastenango, the important administrative center of the Maya people. It's market day, a colorful experience where we'll witness indigenous people from the region. We'll wander through the market, engage with local vendors, and learn about the vibrant traditional clothing. We'll visit the Church of Santo Tomás, a center for syncretic Christian-animist rituals, still used for worship and ceremonies. Immersed in the local crowd, we'll gain insights into their colorful attire. We'll also visit the Church of Santo Tomás, which includes various syncretic Mayan and pagan ceremonies, and stop by the local cemetery characterized by vibrant colors. Accommodation and dinner in Chichicastenango.

Day 14 | Villages around Lake Atitlán

This morning, we'll head to Lake Atitlán, a beautiful blue lake surrounded by volcanic mountains. Considered the spiritual center for the Maya, we'll explore the villages around Lake Atitlán, passing through vibrant markets where descendants of the Maya still wear colorful traditional clothing. Beyond the items sold in rural markets, the highlight of the day will be the encounter with the colorful local population exploring the market. As part of our tour around Lake Atitlán, we'll also enter one of those Maya villages and visit Santa Catarina. Accommodation near Lake Atitlán.

Day 15 | Lake Atitlán

After breakfast, we'll embark on a boat ride across one of the most beautiful lakes in Guatemala, Lake Atitlán, surrounded by majestic volcanoes. In the morning, we'll float on the lake, marveling at its unique beauty. Later, we'll visit the vibrant market of Santiago de Atitlán on the other side of the lake. We'll explore the local church and the household temple where "Maximón," the local "gangster" deity, resides. Accommodation near Lake Atitlán.

Days 16 | Lake Atitlán - Guatemala City

We'll utilize the first part of the day to further immerse ourselves in the Mayan culture and bid farewell to this rich historical experience.