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Central America III

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 – Sun, 5 Apr 2026

9 Days 8 Nights

About this expedition

Welcome to the Central American Expedition! This adventurous overland journey will take you through a diverse tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Starting in the charming city of San José, Costa Rica, we'll embark on the roadtrip of a lifetime that will lead us through the heart of Central America. We have created the most efficient itinerary without sacrifizing the best experiences this region has to offer. Our roadtrip will be the best way to visit these 6 countries: Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala and Belize (as add-on). One of those Expeditions we won't offer often. Don't miss the chance!

Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival San José (Costa Rica)

  • We will meet in San José (Costa Rica), the expedition officially starts here in the early morning of Day 1. To maximize your experience, ensure you arrive in Costa Rica at least a day before. We recommend arriving a few days early to explore the area before embarking on this overland Expedition!

Day 1: San José to Rivas (Nicaragua)

  • We'll kick off our adventure by heading to Rio Celeste National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant blue river, before crossing the first border of our expedition into Nicaragua.

  • Overnight: Rivas (Nicaragua)

Day 2: San Juan del Sur - Granada

  • We'll make our way to the laid-back coastal town of San Juan del Sur, offering opportunities to relax on the beach, explore the town, or engage in various water activities. We'll then venture to Granada, known for its colonial architecture and picturesque surroundings.

  • Overnight: Granada

Day 3: Managua & Leon

  • Today, our route takes us to Managua before continuing to the charming city of Leon in Nicaragua.

  • Overnight: Leon

Day 4: Leon to Tegucigalpa (Honduras)

  • We'll cross the border into Honduras and reach its capital, Tegucigalpa. We will explore the city in the afternoon.

  • Overnight in Tegucigalpa

Day 5: Tegucigalpa & El Salvador.

  • We will drive from Tegucigalpa to the capital of our next country, San Salvador.

  • Overnight: San Salvador.

Day 6: Coatepeque & Volcan Santa Ana - Antigua Guatemala.

  • We'll embark on an early morning excursion to Coatepeque and Volcan Santa Ana before crossing the border into Guatemala, arriving in the picturesque town of Antigua by nightfall.

  • Overnight: Antigua

Day 7: Antigua and  flight to Flores.

  • Free day to discover Antigua, known for its colonial buildings.

  • In the evening, we'll catch a domestic flight to Flores, located in the eastern part of Guatemala.

  • Overnight in Flores

Day 8: Tikal & Flores.

  • We'll explore the renowned Tikal Ruins in the morning, leaving the afternoon free for relaxation and exploration of Flores.

  • Overnight in Flores.

Day 9: Fly out.

  • Our Central American expedition comes to an end as you prepare to depart from Flores.

  • Alternatively, continuing to Belize will be offered as an add-on when you book.

What's included

  • Accomodation — Shared room in 3-4 star hotels (when available) on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Comfortable Bus with Wi-Fi and AC. — Private Bus and two drivers for our overland adventure, so they can take turns, rest and ensure our convenience and safety.
  • Domestic Flight — Domestic Flight from Antigua to Flores is included if you book this Expedition before August 1st 2025.
  • Entrance tickets and activities — The entrance tickets and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included.
  • Expedition Leader — One Wander Expeditions Leader.

Things to know

HOW DO I GET A VISA FOR THESE 5 COUNTRIES?

These 5 countries are generally visa free or on arrival for most nationalities. However, if your passport requires a visa, we can help you navigate the process and offer support when you apply for it.

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO GET THERE?

Wander Expedition doesn't book flights for you and is ultimately not responsible for your flight connection, but we can offer guidance and support when you research the best options for you. We recommend you fly at least a day early into Costa Rica. You can fly out of Flores. Alternatively, continuing to Belize will be offered as an add-on. 

IS CENTRAL AMERICA SAFE?

Central America is one of the most adventurous regions in the Americas and traveling in a group won't just make it more fun, but also, safer than going alone. Most of the risks in these countries are mitigated by the higher the number of people that you are with.

WHO IS THIS EXPEDITION FOR?

This is an overlanding Expedition for those interested in the adventurous countries of Central America. We'll roadtrip across 5 countries and make it easy for you to explore them all with their different nuances.

Traveler stories

5.0 126 reviews

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Laurie "Dublin"

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Laurie "Dublin"

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About us

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Wander Expeditions

Experience unforgettable group trips with Wander Expeditions! Discover unique destinations while forming lasting connections. Our curated travel families ensure a fun, flexible, and fearless adventure for all.

6 years traveling200+ expeditions3.9k+ travelers120+ reviews

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