Real Guatemala to Costa Rica
Real Guatemala to Costa Rica
$1545
Tour Overview
From the Guatemalan highlands to the cloud forests of Costa Rica and all the adventure towns and surf spots in between, roll through four Central American countries for a taste of what this incredibly diverse region is plating up. From tropical forests alive with jungle melodies to vast freshwater lakes and active volcanoes, this pocket of Central America is pure, unrefined paradise. Whether you’re climbing a volcanic crater in Cerro Verde, spotting colourful birds perched on the colonial facades of Granada, standing in the shadow of mighty Arenal Volcano or spotting sloths among the canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest – this trip through Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica is perfect for those who like their adventures 'la forma natural'. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Antigua
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Accommodation: Hotel
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Guatemala. There are no planned activities today until your important welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, why not head out on a caffeine-fuelled coffee quest with Urban Adventures – head beyond the city to explore local plantations and get buzzed and brewed as you learn the history of the bean in Guatemala. Find out more at urbanadventures.com. After the meeting, take an orientation walk around the city with your leader and acquaint yourself with the cobblestone streets and colonial-era plaza. In 1773, the city of Antigua was destroyed by an earthquake, but many of the colonial buildings have been restored. For dinner tonight, perhaps sample a tamale, a local dish served in corn husk, or some pepián, a rich, meaty stew, then surely it’s time for a mojito with your new friends!
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
Antigua - Pacaya Volcano Hike (entrance fee, transport and guide included) - GTQ85
Antigua - Chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo - GTQ130
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
Some departures of this trip are part of a combination trip. As such, some of your fellow travellers may have started their trip days ago in Mexico City on Epic Central America (QBYZC) or 17 days ago in Playa del Carmen on Epic Mexico to Costa Rica (QBYXC). Please contact our sales team if you wish to book or know more information on these longer combination trips. ...more ...less
Day 2 : Cerro Verde
Location: Cerro Verde National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Rise and Shine! Today is an early start as you journey across the Guatemalan border to your next destination, Cerro Verde, El Salvador (approximately 5 hours). From rolling hills to rolling R’s, watch the world go by from the comfort of your private vehicle as you travel through lush volcanic landscape and endless mountain terrain all while learning the local lingo from your leader in an informal Spanish lesson. Arrive in Cerro Verde and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 3 : Cerro Verde
Location: Cerro Verde National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Today is a free day for you to get outdoors! Opt to hike up to the edge of Santa Ana’s Volcano crater for some more spectacular views of Lake Coatepeque, Juayua and Izalco Volcano. Alternatively, instead of admiring it’s view from the volcano crater, why not take a dip in Lake Coatepeque! There are many ways to keep busy in one of El Salvador's most beautiful national parks.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
Cerro Verde - Half-day Crater Hike - price from - USD20
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 4 : San Miguel
Location: San Miguel
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Continuing south by private vehicle today, pass through the capital of San Salvador on your way to San Miguel (approximately 3-4 hours). Resting in the shadows of Chaparrastique, an active volcano that sets the backdrop to this vibrant town, San Miguel has rebuilt itself into one of the largest and most populated cities in the country since facing a severe earthquake in 1917. El Salvador is also home to Papusas, a type of flatbread made from cornmeal and often stuffed with delicious fillings like cheese, chicharrón (fried pork) or refried beans. Today in San Miguel, visit a local street vendor and watch a papusa making demonstration, then try some of course!
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
San Miguel - Salvadoran Pupusa cooking demonstration
Meals Included
Lunch
Day 5 : Leon
Location: León
Accommodation: Hotel
Say a quick hola and adios to Honduras as you cross through two borders to reach ‘the land of lakes and volcanoes’, Nicaragua (or Nica as it’s known as locally). The 6-hour drive (plus stops) will be well worth the ride as you’re welcomed into the charming, artsy and sophisticated city of Leon. Why not refuel after your journey with some traditional Nicaraguan dishes, Gallo Pinto, with its hearty combination of rice and beans, is considered a national symbol – alternatively, perhaps try out some of your new Spanish skills and order a Quesillo, a cheesy treat made of corn tortillas, pickled onion and sour cream. Once the capital of Nicaragua, Leon has long been the heart and soul of the country’s political movements, which is demonstrated through the city’s colourful street murals – an artistic reflection of fallen heroes and revolutionary icons. Home to one of the oldest universities in Central America, Leon is considered a ‘college town’ and is known for its youthful, fun atmosphere and energetic nightlife. This evening, why not head out with the group for some bachata or salsa dancing!
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
Leon - Leader-led orientation walk
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 6 : Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Hotel
This morning is free to explore Leon, perhaps check out the Basílica de la Asunción – Central Americas largest cathedral – or stop by the Museo Histórico de la Revolución for an insight the revolutionaries who fought hard for the freedom of their country. Alternatively, you might like to go volcano sandboarding! (This is the only place in the world that you can do it). Afterwards, if you’re feeling peckish, why not fill up on the traditional breakfast of scrambled eggs and gallo pinto before jumping on a local bus this afternoon to Granada. First, take a taxi from the hotel to the bus station, next board a local bus bound for Managua that will depart when it's full and takes around 2-3 hours depending on the amount of stops it needs to make and the complexity of onloading and offloading the passenger’s luggage. There will be about a 30-45-minute transit in Managua before taking the next public bus to Granada with a duration of approximately 1.5 hrs, and finally taking a 20-minute taxi ride to the hotel. Founded in 1524, Granada is the oldest city in Nicaragua and home to iconic Moorish and Andalusian landmarks that have survived repeated pirate invasions. Draped in colourful colonial architecture and oozing aesthetic charm, this enchanting city is set on the banks of Lake Nicaragua and is surrounded by active volcanoes.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
Leon - Volcano Sand Boarding - NIO1260
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 7 : Granada
Location: Granada
Accommodation: Hotel
Today is free to explore Granada, one of Central America’s least spoiled colonial towns. Perhaps you’d like to take a guided tour of the city, bargain hard in the markets, or wander the cobblestone streets, snapping photos of the colourful buildings. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, opt to hire a kayak and paddle around the islets of lake Nicaragua, rent a bicycle and ride to Laguna De Apoyo (a 200 year old lake set into a lush forest crater), or hike through the lush flora and fauna along the Mombacho volcano crater trail. For a cultural insight into the heritage of the Nicaraguan people, the city of Masaya aka ‘City of the Flowers’ offers a mixture of folkloric entertainment, from marimba music to street theatre. If you’re looking to purchase some traditional handicrafts, then you’ll also find ‘Mercado de las Artesanías’ – a craft market offering handmade souvenirs reflective of the Masaya area. After a day of exploration, why not enjoy an evening along Calle la Calzada – grab a drink at one of the many outdoor bars and watch the wandering performers, from mariachis to break dancers, bring the street to life.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
Granada - Masaya Volcano at night (Viewpoint for the Lava Lake at Santiago Crater) - NIO1140
Granada - Laguna Apoyo kayaking tour - NIO1025
Granada - Kayak rental (per day) - NIO685
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 8 : Ometepe Island
Location: Ometepe Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, enjoy an included breakfast. Then, travel by local bus to Rivas where you'll transfer to San Jorge ferry port by taxi (approximately 2.5 hours). Catch a 1-hour ferry across Lake Nicaragua (the largest in Central America and the tenth largest freshwater lake in the world) to the island of Ometepe, and head to your hotel. Hourglass-shaped Ometepe Island was formed by two volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua (Ometepe literally means two volcanoes in the Nahuatl language) and the deep jungle is home to exotic wildlife such as monkeys and parrots. A great experience is to sit on the shore and watch fishermen return from a long day on the water with their catch.
Accommodation
Hotel (Multishare with Shared facilities) (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Day 9 : Ometepe Island
Location: Ometepe Island
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: (Multishare with Shared facilities)
Meals Included: Dinner
Take advantage of a free day to discover the island. Perhaps take a hike up to the summit of either the Concepcion or Maderas volcanoes, but be warned, at 1700 and 1394 metres above sea level respectively, these are serious volcanoes and the treks are no walk in the park. You might prefer to splash around in the natural springs, soak up the sun on the shore or check out the island's petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings). If you like watermelon, coffee, banana and citrus fruits then Ometepe is the place for you, plantations abound, you’ll have loads of delicious fresh food to feast on. In the evening, head to Los Ramos, an indigenous community situated right in the middle of the island’s volcanos, for a cooking class. Learn traditional techniques used to make Nicaraguan dishes like nacatamales (a dough-based snack often filled with meat and steamed in banana leaves) before sitting down to a meal together.
Accommodation
Hotel (Multishare with Shared facilities) (1 night)
Included Activities
Los Ramos Community - Cooking Class
Optional Activities
Ometepe - Concepcion Volcano hike - USD45
Ometepe - Maderas Volcano hike - USD45
Ometepe - Ojo de Agua natural spring (entrance fee) - USD25
Ometepe - Petroglyphs - USD20
Meals Included
Dinner
Day 10 : San Juan Del Sur
Location: San Juan del Sur
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: (Multishare with shared facilties)
Today you’ll take the two-hour journey (by ferry and public bus) to San Juan del Sur, a laidback surf town on Nicaragua’s south-west coast. Though the beach that lines the town’s horseshoe bay itself isn’t particularly great for swimming, you don’t need to travel far to find beautiful golden beaches with year-round waves. Go on an orientation walk with your leader and then enjoy free time to acquaint yourself with this fun little town. Tonight, you’ll be sleeping in style under the cover of a tepee! Connect with nature in these cosy dens and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.
Accommodation
Hostel (Multishare with shared facilties) (1 night)
Optional Activities
San Juan del Sur - Surf Board Hire - USD20
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 11 : San Juan Del Sur
Location: San Juan del Sur
Accommodation: Hostel
Accommodation Name: (Multishare with shared facilties)
Enjoy a free day exploring San Juan del Sur’s colourful coastal scenery. If you’re feeling active, San Juan del Sur has plenty to offer. You might like to rent a surfboard and spend the day riding the waves at nearby beaches like Playa Maderas or Playa Marsella, alternatively, head south to La Flor beach reserve, where it’s possible to see olive ridley, hawksbill, leatherback and green sea turtles nesting between July and November. A huge statue of Christ (the largest in Central America) sits atop a cliff above the bay – why not hike to the top for spectacular views of the town and Pacific. In the evening, the city boasts a variety of greats bars and restaurants where you can share a meal with the group.
Accommodation
Hostel (Multishare with shared facilties) (1 night)
Optional Activities
San Juan del Sur - La Flor Beach Reserve - Free
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 12 : Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation: Hotel
Say Adios to Nicaragua and continue your journey south to Costa Rica. Take a 1-hour bus to the border and then travel by private vehicle to Monteverde (approximately 5 hours). Monteverde was founded as an agricultural community in 1951 by a group of North American Quakers, these environmentally aware settlers also established a small wildlife sanctuary, which has since grown into the internationally renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve. Cloud forests are similar to rainforests, but instead, draw their water from a semi-permanent cloud covering the region. Constant mist in the forest makes it feel a bit like a nightclub! But with less bass and more fresh air, this is truly a nature lover's paradise. More than 2000 plant species, 320 bird species and 100 mammal species call Montverde home – be sure to keep an eye out for the resplendent quetzal, one of the most elusive birds in the world.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
Monteverde - Leader-led orientation walk
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
Proof of onward travel is a requirement for entry into Costa Rica, so if you're flying out of San Jose, bring a printed copy of your flight details in case the border officials ask to see them.
Day 13 : Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation: Hotel
Today you have a full free day to discover the reserve and experience the mystical and fragile environment here. Monteverde is not for the faint-hearted, so bring your sense of adventure, a solid pair of shoes, and have a little fun with the giddy heights. Perhaps take a hike through the cloud forest, check out the area by mountain bike, or fly over the canopy on a zip-line tour. Another way to see the forest from above is to take a tour along a series of suspension bridges 40 metres up above the jungle. You can explore the park on your own or arrange for a local guide to accompany you. The guides are very knowledgeable and happy to engage in conversation. To see some guaranteed wildlife up close, visit the butterfly and insect gardens or the serpentarium – there are also several cooperatives worth visiting in the local communities.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
Monteverde - Cloud Forest (entrance fee and transport) - CRC41833
Monteverde - Suspension bridges tour - USD41
Monteverde - Canopy Zip Lining (Entrance, Equipment & Transport) - USD84
Monteverde - Coffee & Chocolate tour - USD35
Monteverde - Night walk through Cloud Forest - USD25
Monteverde - Butterfly Garden and Insects Farm (entrance fee) - USD16
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 14 : La Fortuna
Location: La Fortuna
Accommodation: Hotel
Continue your journey through Costa Rica and take the scenic route to La Fortuna (approximately 4-5 hours). Travel by shared minibus to Lake Arenal, which you'll then cross by boat. On a clear day you'll see fantastic views of the surrounding area. On the other side of the lake, re-board the minibus and continue on to your destination. La Fortuna is a small town situated just a few minutes from Costa Rica's most famous volcano, the majestic Arenal. While you're here, make sure you take some photos of the volcano reflected spectacularly in the lake. Get a good rest tonight, as tomorrow you’ve got a free day to take advantage of all the active activities on offer.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 15 : La Fortuna
Location: La Fortuna
Accommodation: Hotel
There are plenty of optional activities to take part in today, so when you get home, this isn’t the place to say you sat around! Perhaps take a guided nature hike through the lush forest surrounding Arenal Volcano, keeping an eye out for rare plants and animals, or opt to see the forest from a series of hanging bridges. Check out the 70-metre high La Fortuna waterfall, or get wet with some water sports on the lake, such as stand-up paddle boarding. The volcano’s inner workings also mean that the area is home to several thermal hot springs, an ideal way to relax in the middle of nature. Alternatively, a boat safari down the Celeste River offers the opportunity to see lizards, crocodiles and tropical birds in their natural habitat.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
La Fortuna - Ecotermales Hot Springs (entrance fee) - USD44
La Fortuna - La Fortuna Waterfall - USD18
La Fortuna - Nature hike around Arenal Volcano - USD60
La Fortuna - Cano Negro boat tour - USD65
La Fortuna - Stand up paddle board - USD75
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 16 : San Jose
Location: San José
Accommodation: Hotel
Take a local bus to Costa Rica's capital, San Jose (approximately 5 hours). Situated in the fertile Central Valley and home to over half the country's population, San Jose is filled with lively markets, intriguing museums and a dynamic atmosphere. A good place to start your exploration is the main plaza. Artisan booths are common here, so you never know when an art fair will pop up. The Gold Museum has an amazing collection of indigenous gold art or if you're in the mood for a bit of shopping, head to the outdoor market in the Plaza de la Cultura or the city's Central Market, where you can buy anything from handicrafts to seafood. Then it's maybe time for a final farewell dinner (or margarita) with your new travel buds and say muchas gracias to your Central American journey.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
San Jose - Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities
San Jose - The Art of Craft Beer in San Jose - Urban Adventures - USD75
San Jose - National Museum (entrance fee) - USD11
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Day 17 : San Jose
Location: San José
Today your Central American adventure comes to an end, there are no activities planned. As there's a lot to see and do in and around San Jose, we recommend staying on for a few days to make the most of the city. If you'd like to extend your visit and need further accommodation, our reservations team would be happy to assist (subject to availability). There are some great day tours you can take outside of the city, such as or Irazu Volcano.
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
What's Included
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San Jose - Leader-led walking tour
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Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
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San Miguel - Salvadoran Pupusa cooking demonstration
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Los Ramos Community - Cooking Class
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Monteverde - Leader-led orientation walk
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Leon - Leader-led orientation walk
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Meals
1 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 1 dinners
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Accommodation
Hotel (10 nights), Multishare Hostel (2 nights) Lodge (2 nights), Multishare permanent furnished camp (2 nights)
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Transport
Private vehicle, Public bus, local bus, Taxi, Shared boat, Ferry
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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International Travel
Transport
- Private vehicle , Public bus , Local bus , Taxi , Shared boat , Ferry
Accommodation
- Hotel (10 nights), Multishare Hostel (2 nights) Lodge (2 nights), Multishare permanent furnished camp (2 nights)
Included Activities
- Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
- San Miguel - Salvadoran Pupusa cooking demonstration
- Leon - Leader-led orientation walk
- Los Ramos Community - Cooking Class
- Monteverde - Leader-led orientation walk
- San Jose - Leader-led walking tour
Check out our Q&As
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No
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Are international flights included in this tour?
No
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
No, this trip is catered for those aged 18-29 years
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Is this trip right for you
This trip involves some long travel days, and while travelling between some locations on local transport can be hard, it’s super rewarding and a great way to meet the locals.
You’ll be crossing the borders between five countries on this trip and while it is usually straightforward, you may need to be patient. Make sure you’ve got your best car game ready if there are any delays!
Central America is tropical, so expect a hot and humid climate. Protect yourself from the sun, wear comfortable, light clothing and stay hydrated – especially when out on walking tours. Air conditioning may not always be available in your rooms. Occasionally, properties may require an additional charge for air conditioning.
With so much to see and do, Costa Rica can sometimes be expensive. Expect to pay more than you would in other Central American countries for a lot of things. ...more ...less
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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May 07, 2025 - May 23, 2025Wednesday - Friday
May 21, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Real Guatemala to Costa Rica
17 Days Starting in Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala and ending in San José Province, San José, Costa Rica
Visiting: Antigua Guatemala, Cerro Verde National Park, San Miguel, León, Granada, Ometepe Island, San Juan del Sur, Monteverde, La Fortuna, San José ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
QBYJ
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
18-29 years
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians