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Ultimate Central America

4.7(11,234 reviews)
Mexico
18 days
Operated by Partner

$6,075

Destinations

Mexico

Overview

This sizzling circuit of Central America takes you to some stunning hotspots in Mexico, Belize & Guatemala. There'll be plenty of surfing, snorkelling and sipping something sweet under the shade of a palm tree - but this trip isn't just about the beaches. You'll get stuck into Central America's rich culture as you taste tequila at a distillery, explore the ruins of ancient civilisations and eat food that will guac your world.

Itinerary Teaser

Welcome to one of the most popular beach towns in Mexico, also known as the 'Mexican Riviera'. Spa, pool, relax, repeat are all high on the agenda today as well as an optional zipline adventure – and that's before we top it all off with a beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene.

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
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Day 7
Day 8
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Day 10
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Day 17
Day 18
Day 1
Tour1 day

Puerto Vallarta Welcome to one of the most popular beach towns in Mexico, also known as the 'Mexican Riviera'. Spa, pool, relax, repeat are all high on the agenda today as well as an optional zipline adventure – and that's before we top it all off with a beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene.

Day 2
Tour1 day

Puerto Vallarta Today you’re free to explore Puerto Vallarta however you like. You can surf, or, take a day trip to remote beaches on a sailing trip. Then, in the evening, catch a Pirate show! Expect the unexpected in Puerto Vallarta.

Day 3
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Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara Bye bye beach hangs, but don't worry, this isn't your last taste of Mexican beach life - we'll see you soon, sea. Nothing screams ‘Mexico’ like tequila, so why not head to a genuine distillery where you can learn how this fiery spirit is made and taste some for yourself? Afterwards, take a stroll around the streets to ...

Day 4
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Guadalajara to Guanajuato We leave Guadalajara and hit the road. Here at the old colonial city of Guanajuato (now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage City), you’ll learn about the history of the famous silver mining town and how the economy has shaped much of its culture. Discover the famous 'Mummies', the lovers at the 'Alley of Kisses', and even ...

Day 5
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Guanajuato to Mexico City via San Miguel de Allende Thanks to the bright facades of Guanajuato, your eyes should be wide open by now. Just in time too, because there is so much to see in Mexico City.Quick pitstop! We'll check out this colourful UNESCO World Heritage City, known for its baroque architecture and vibrant art scene. Stroll through the ...

Day 6
Tour1 day

Mexico City The theme 'getting out there' will take on a whole new meaning today. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are the focus for this leg of your journey in this bustling city. Get stuck into the local flavours by tasting some Mexican delicacies at a local market. Do some shopping in Coyoacan. Then, tonight, re-fuel with city eats, like enchiladas, ...

Day 7
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Mexico City & Teotihuacan It’s a busy one today, travellers. Today, we're heading to the archaeological city of Teotihuacan.Pyramids and Aztec temples are the focus for this leg of your journey. As you go, local guides will kindly impart their extensive knowledge on many interesting topics so you're in the know on anything and everything.Walk along ...

Day 8
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Mexico City to Cancun Goodbye Mexico City. Señoras y señores, let's hit the road!Welcome to Mexico’s super resort – Cancun. With its high energy vibes, this stop is a no brainer when it comes to getting your fiesta on. One suggestion for tonight's dinner? Mercado 28, a busy market serving true Mexican delights.

Day 9
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Cancun Yes, Yes. We just arrived. But we're saying goodbye to bright & buzzing Cancun (only for a bit!) to check out an epic historical hotspot.The most famous ancient ruins in Mayan history. With our Local Guide leading the charge, we’ll learn all about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country ...

Day 10
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Cancun Cancun is a hub of fiery entertainment… known for way more than party vibes. Powdery beaches, endlessly swimmable waters and laid-back taco joints (basically all you need, no matter your mood.) Your Trip Manager knows this place like the back of their hand too, so you're guaranteed to be in the know on all the best spots to head for the ...

Day 11
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Cancun to Playa Del Carmen Get ready for your next adventure this morning as we're heading to the beautiful shores of Playa del Carmen. A bit of retail therapy never hurt anyone, so how about a stroll down Paseo del Carmen shopping centre to spend some pesos? You'll fall head over heels for this sun-kissed seashore town. For the food addicts ...

Day 12
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Playa Del Carmen to Caye Caulker Mexico, you've stolen a slice of our hearts forever but with Belize & the Caribbean Island of Caye Caulker on the horizon, we're not feeling too sad... Hello heaven. Rub your eyes, blink and blink again - yes this pinch-yourself tropical paradise truly is real, This evening is all about enjoying the last dregs of ...

Day 13
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Caye Caulker You’ll need a big breakfast today because you're free to do whatever you want, which could mean a whole lot of exploring. Belize has a spectacular Barrier Reef that's just begging to be discovered, so grab a snorkel and get out there. Back on land, it's all about sandy streets flanked by palm trees and dotted with cafes and bars lined ...

Day 14
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Caye Caulker Another free day to soak up the vibes of this beautiful city, and spend some more time in the water. Snorkel, siesta, or sip something sweet as you watch the golden sunset over the shimmering waters. Bliss.

Day 15
Tour1 day

Caye Caulker to Tikal Water taxis will whizz us back to the mainland across the glorious underwater playground you've become so well acquainted with over the last few days, landing us back in the arms of Belize City. It’s a super swift passing by of the beloved Belize City before we take to the road to journey across the border into yet another ...

Day 16
Tour1 day

Tikal to Antigua Rise early today to watch the sun stretch over the the top of the Mayan ruin Templo IV. Not a bad way to start the day, hey? We'll then take a guided tour of the crumbling ruins before a trip to the island of Flores, where we'll have lunch and time for shopping before flying this afternoon to Guatemala's capital city and then on to ...

Day 17
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Antigua Guatemala Start with a tour with our guide to learn about the local architecture, tiny squares, and fountains. Don your explorers cap this afternoon and head off for some ME time. Being able to choose your own adventure could take you up Pacaya Volcano on a guided hike. If you’d rather produce those endorphins by making (and eating) your ...

Day 18
Tour1 day

Antigua Morning global roamers, we came, we saw, we sizzled. We'll fuel up on one last breakfast together, then it's time to wipe away the tears and do those final friend requests because today you're homeward bound with firm plans in full steam for a Contiki 2.0 reunion in Asia. See you next time!

What's included

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Activities and Logistics
  • Puerto Vallarta: Grab your new buddies and a Paloma cocktail. It’s time to feast on Mexican food and watch the sunset over the sea.
  • Tequila: Discover how Mexico’s famous liquor is made. And knock back a cheeky shot or two.
  • Guadalajara: This work of architectural art was originally built as a place to care for disadvantaged people. Nowadays, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Guadalajara: Stroll around the official birthplace of tequila and mariachi music.
  • Guanajuato: Narrow cobbled streets. Colourful colonial architecture. Manicured gardens. You’ll see why this place is labelled ‘most beautiful city in Mexico’.
  • Mexico City: The candy-coloured buildings and antiquated streets make this one of Mexico’s most photogenic cities. And the perfect backdrop for an Insta shoot.
  • Mexico City: Craving some authentic tacos, pambazo or barbacoa? It’s time to galvanise your tastebuds.
  • Mexico City: Heads up culture vultures! Visit Coyoacan to walk in the footsteps of the famous artist. And check out the museum in her honour. Plus, you can go inside the museum at your own cost if you purchase a ticket in advance.
  • Mexico City: Admire the ‘City of Gods’: one of the first great cities of the Western Hemisphere. Although no one really knows who built it.
  • Mexico City: Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
  • Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.
  • Chichen Itza: It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!
  • Cancun: Get the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes.
  • Caye Caulker: Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker. This is how we roll.
  • Tikal: Spend the night in the rainforest. Your chance to walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans. And meet monkeys and toucans.
  • Tikal: Explore this epic Mayan ‘lost city’ in the heart of the jungle. And hear historic tales from a local expert. #bucketlist moment.
  • Tikal: Ah, Guatemala! A rainbow-coloured fiesta of Insta ops and the official 'birthplace of chocolate’. Heaven on earth.
  • Antigua Guatemala: Antigua is a ‘tale of two cities’. Here we’ll tour the ancient part (originally built by Spanish colonists) with a native guide.
  • Antigua Guatemala: Fill up on tostadas, enchiladas and all the other spiced dishes of your foodie dreams.
Dining Summary
  • 8 Dinner (D)
  • 17 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
FAQs
  • Lima: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
  • Lake Titicaca: What can I expect when travelling in Latin America? Flexibility is key when you’re travelling in Latin America. The itinerary will give you a good idea of what your trip is gonna look like. But routes, schedules, hotels & modes of transportation may be subject to change without prior notice because of local circumstances or events beyond Contiki’s control.
  • Iguazú Falls: Which currency should I bring? You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).
  • Iguazú Falls: Is it customary to tip? You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill.
  • Iguazú Falls: What is the role of the Trip Manager? Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you'll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant.
  • Iguazú Falls: Is tap water safe to drink? Drinking tap water isn’t recommend. So, please stick to bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water during the trip.
  • Iguazú Falls: What power adapters do I need? Most places use similar plugs to the US and Europe, but it’s a good idea to bring a circular two-prong adapter just in case. No voltage converter is needed for devices like phones and laptops, but you may need one for high-powered devices (e.g., hairdryers).
  • Buenos Aires: What should I pack for my trip? Pack light, but smart. Think: layers for all types of weather, comfy walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a daypack, any meds, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and even a circular two-prong power adapter. Don’t worry tho, your Trip Manager will send a full list of things you should pack before your trip starts.
  • Iguazú Falls: How much luggage can I bring? You can bring 1 hand luggage + 1 suitcase or backpack per person.  Internal flights are included in this trip (your Trip Manager will have your tickets ready for you). Each traveller is allowed 1 checked bag & 1 carry-on bag/personal item (eg: small backpack/handbag or laptop bag). Our suitcase restriction above means that the checked bag will be within the limitation for this flight. The carry-on bag must not exceed 114 cm (45”). Extra or overweight bags will incur a fee by the airline which is the traveller’s responsibility. Fees range from US$25.00-US$100.00.
  • Mexico City: Will I need vaccinations prior to travelling? Please check the latest travel info from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if you're travelling to Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. We also recommend that you consult your local health clinic or doctor for more details.
  • Belize City: Can I get cash out in Mexico, Belize & Guatemala? Yep, ATMs are easy to find in cities, towns, and tourist hotspots.  You’ll need to get:  Pesos in Mexico   Belize dollars (and sometimes USD) in Belize   Quetzales in Guatemala   Heads up: rural areas can be hit or miss, especially in Belize and Guatemala. So, bring some backup cash and use ATMs inside banks when you can.
  • Mexico City: What’s the weather like in Mexico, Belize & Guatemala? Short answer: it varies (a lot). Long answer:  Mexico has all the moods. On the coasts and in the south (think Cancun, Los Cabos), it’s hot and humid during rainy season. Up in the mountains (think Guadalajara), you’ll find more chill – think spring vibes year-round. And in the really high bits? Pack layers, because it can get frosty.  Belize & Guatemala bring the tropical heat in the lowlands (around 25–30°C), with serious humidity and a rainy season from May to October. Belize can be prone to a storm or two - so waterproof everything.  But Guatemala’s highlands (like Antigua and Quetzaltenango) flip the script with cooler temps, crisp nights, and all-round alpine energy.
  • Lima: Is there anything specific I need to know? Safety: You’ll stay in expert-picked areas that are safe and convenient. While you’re on your own, it’s best to stick to safe areas, follow your gut & of course, use your common sense (avoid dark alleys, don’t leave valuables unattended, use crosswalks).  Water & Food: It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in any of these countries. Stick to bottled water (even for brushing your teeth!). You’ll have plenty of opportunities to purchase them on your trip.  Toilets: We’ll make a service stop along the way where you can use a toilet. But remember to toss used toilet paper in the trash, not the toilet (don’t wanna clog it up!)  WiFi/Cell Service: WiFi is available at most accommodations and restaurants, but it can be slow. It’s best to check with your phone provider about international plans.
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