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Tour Date: 10 Mar 2012 - 07 Apr 2012
Tour Cost ($AUD): $16,947.00
There are few parts of the world that offer such diversity as magnificent Central America. Following a three-month research trip, we have put together an incredible itinerary featuring four of the most stunning countries in the region: Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras and Guatemala. We start here before heading to Panama City for a cruise through one of man's greatest engineering masterpieces, the Panama Canal. Then it's on to Costa Rica with its erupting volcanoes and spectacular wildlife. Finally, we head to beautiful Guatemala where we visit the stunning colonial city of Antigua, magnificent Lake Atitlan, the fabulous Chichicastenango markets, magnificent Copan in Honduras and Tikal, the greatest of all the Mayan archeological sites.
10/03/2012 Sydney - Los Angeles (B In-flight)
Fly from your preferred capital city to Sydney, connecting with our flight to Los Angeles. Crossing the International Date Line, we arrive in Los Angeles on the same day.
Depart Sydney Qantas QF 11, 14.05
Arrive Los Angeles 09.45
We transfer to our hotel in Los Angeles.
Crowne Plaza Beverly Hills
1150 South Beverly Drive
Los Angeles
Ph: 0011-1-310-553-6561
11/03/2012 Los Angeles (B)
Los Angeles
12/03/2012 Los Angeles - Panama City (D)
Famous Hollywood sign
This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Panama City.
Depart Los Angeles Copa Airlines CM 473 08.40
Arrive Panama 17.10
Le Meridien Hotel
Calle Uruguay & Balboa Avenue
Panama City
Ph: 0011-507-297 3200
Fx: 297 3201
13/03/2012 Panama City (BLD)
Casa Vieja, Panama City
The most dynamic capital in Central America, Panama City has both a 'Manhattanesque' business centre and a marvellous heritage-listed old heart. It is the latter we concentrate on today in our city tour. Superbly preserved and restored historic buildings abound in the area known as Casa Vieja. This was the second city of Panama founded in 1673 after the destruction of the first city known as “Panama La Vieja”. The Casco Viejo was constructed as a fortification to protect it from intent of pirate attack. There were raised religious buildings and architectonics, ruins of colonial convents and residences, “Plazas”, which remain today.
In the afternoon we drive to the Miraflores Locks for our first view of the magnificent Panama Canal.
14/03/2012 Panama City (BLD)
Embera Indians
This morning we visit a fascinating community of the Embera Indians. Originally from the remote Darien rainforest area of Panama, these people dress very much as they did when Colombus arrived in the 1500s.
15/03/2012 Panama City (BLD)
Giant Locks, Panama Canal
This morning we enjoy a delightful hour-long ride on the Panama Canal Railway, the world's first Trans-Continental rail route. Cutting through dense jungle alongside the canal, it gives another aspect of this historic area. Disembarking in the town of Colon we soon reach Cristobal Pier as we start to make a full transit of the Panama Canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Completed in 1914, the 77-km stretch of water, affectionately known as 'the Big Ditch', remains one of the greatest engineering achievements in history. Our voyage takes us through the enormous locks of Gatun, through the extraordinary Gaillard Cut and the incredible locks of Pedro Miquel and Miraflores. We arrive back in the evening after a momentous day.
16/03/2012 Panama City - San Jose (BLD)
Poas Volcano
Today we board our flight to San Jose, capital of Costa Rica.
Depart Panama City Lacsa Airlines LR 672 , 08.45
Arrive San Jose 08.45
An action-packed day's sightseeing today. We drive firstly to the famous Poas Volcano, just outside San Jose. The view of the volcano from the rim of the crater is fantastic. Heading towards the Caribbean zone of Costa Rica, we visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. After a short stroll along spectacular trails, we see the beautiful Magia Bianca Falls and the world's largest butterfly observatory.
Gran Hotel Costa Rica
Av. Central y Segunda Entre calles 1 y 3
Apartado 527-100
San Jose
Costa Rica
Ph: 0011-506- 2214000
Fx: 2255 0139
17/03/2012 San Jose - Tortuguero (BLD)
Tortuguero National Park
After breakfast we drive to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, to the stunning Tortuguero National Park. The park has an incredible biological variety, due to the existence within the reserve of 11 different habitats including rainforest, swamps, beaches and lagoons. It is located in a tropical climate so is very humid and receives up to 250 inches of rain a year. Tortuguero is not accessible by road so we make the final part of our journey by boat.
We stay at the delightful Evergreen Lodge, on the banks of one of the waterways that make up this extraordinary area. After lunch we enjoy a twighlight river safari.
Evergreen Lodge
Tortuguero
Costa Rica
Ph: 0011-506-2257 7742
Fx: 2257 6825
18/03/2012 Tortuguero (BLD)
Tortuguero Toucan
Further exploring this region. This National Park is situated in one of the rainiest parts of the world. Here you can find hundreds of endangered or threatened species, though they are hard to spot in the mysterious forests. 300 bird species, among them the great green macaw; 57 species of amphibians and 111 of reptiles, including three species of marine turtles; 60 mammal species, including 13 of Costa Rica's 16 endangered species, including jaguars, tapirs, ocelots, cougars, river otters, and manatees. Commonly seen birds include toucans, aricaris, oropendolas, swallow-tailed hawks, several species of herons, kingfishers, anhingas, parrots, and jacanas. The wide-open canals make viewing easier than at many other parks--superb for spotting crocodiles, giant iguanas, and basilisk lizards basking atop the branches, swallow-tailed hawks and vultures swooping over the treetops, and caimans luxuriating on the fallen raffia palm branches at the side of the river. Many of the animals found here are still being threatened by fruit plantations, logging companies and by hordes of cattle who use the grounds near the park gates for grazing.
19/03/2012 Tortuguero - La Fortuna (BLD)
Eruption on Arenal
We leave Monteverde and drive to the shores of Lake Arenal where a boat awaits us. We cross the lake and continue by road to the town of La Fortuna, in the shadow of the mighty Arenal Volcano. The rest of the day is at leisure. We stay in one of the country's most famous hotels, which has luxurious hot pools to soak in and fantastic views of the volcano.
Arenal Kioro Hotel
La Fortuna de San Carlos
Costa Rica
Ph: 0011-506-2479 1700
Fax: 2479 1710
20/03/2012 La Fortuna (BLD)
Arenal at Sunrise
The Arenal is one of the world's most active volcanoes and a truly stunning sight. Today we explore the area thoroughly and maybe even see the volcano erupting. We also explore the surrounding forest, which is home to a dazzling array of flora and fauna.
21/03/2012 La Fortuna - Monteverde (BLD)
Hummingbird Cloud Forest, Monteverde
After breakfast we cross the Arenal lake to Monteverde. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is acclaimed as one of the most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries in the Americas and includes eight distinct ecological zones. It protects more than 400 species of birds and over 100 species of mammals.
In addition to the spectacular resplendent quetzal, we may see the endangered bellbird, or emerald toucanet. There are also 30 species of hummingbirds. The afternoon is at leisure, but before dinner we enjoy a night hike through the forest, with the chance to see sloths, foxes, coatis, racoons and many other species.
Hotel Fonda Vela
Monteverde
Costa Rica
Ph: 0011-506-2645 5125
Fx: 2645 5119
22/03/2012 Monteverde (BLD)
Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
Early this morning we enjoy a guided tour through Cloud Forest Reserve. The forest has a primordial feel and a staggering array of flora and fauna. After lunch we take the famous skywalk tour through the forest canopy, giving unparalleled views of the lush surroundings.
23/03/2012 Monteverde - San Jose (BLD)
Opera House, San Jose
This morning we visit the amazing Selvatura Park. Bridges above the trees allow us fantastic views of the cloud forest. After our lunch we drive to San Jose
Hotel Indigo
Del Centro Empresarial Forum Dos
Santa Ana
San Jose
Ph: 0011-506-2205 2100
Fx: 2205 2199
24/03/2012 San Jose - Guatemala City - Antigua (BLD)
Antigua
We transfer to San Jose airport for our flight to Guatemala City.
Depart San Jose Lacsa LR 634, 10.32
Arrive Guatemala City 12.12
On arrival we make the 45-minute transfer to the beautiful colonial city of Antigua. We stay in a stunning converted monastery, now regarded as Guatemala's finest hotel.
Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
3a Calle Oriente No. 28 'A'
Antigua, Guatemala
Tel: 0011-502-7820-1222
Fax: 7832- 4155
25/03/2012 Antigua (BLD)
Easter Week in Antigua
Considered the most beautiful city in all the Americas, Antigua has it all. Flanked by three majestic volcanoes, it is full of glorious Spanish colonial architecture, manicured parks, cobbled streets, superb restaurants, art galleries and shops. The best way to discover Antigua is on foot and this morning we enjoy a guided walking tour. The build up to Easter begins two weeks prior and on Sundays, the whole celebrates for many hours with a magnificent procession that will wind its way through the narrow streets. We have plenty of time to enjoy this fantastic spectacle.
26/03/2012 Antigua (BLD)
San Miguel Village near Antigua
This morning we visit some of the delightful local villages, famous for their textiles and wood carvings. We then head to the Maya Traditions Museum to learn about the traditional customs, music and costumes.
27/03/2012 Antigua - Lake Atitlan (BLD)
Lake Atitlan
After breakfast we make the hour-long scenic drive to the charming town of Comalapa. We enjoy a tour of the market and the famous local primitive painting galleries. After lunch we continue our drive to glorious Lake Atitlan. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Hotel Atitlan
6 calle 6-38 zona 9 local 6 Buenaventura
Panajachel, Guatemala
Ph: 0011-502-77621441
Fax: 77620048
28/03/2012 Lake Atitlan (BLD)
Lake Atitlan
The famous English writer Aldous Huxley described Lake Atitlan as "the most beautiful in the world", and justifiably so. Formed by a volcanic cataclysm 84,000 years ago, the lake shimmers in a mountain valley surrounded by three lofty volcanoes. The lake is overlooked by a dozen charming villages whose inhabitants proudly wear traditional dress, which distinguishes one village from the next. Today we enjoy a leisurely cruise on the glorious lake, visiting a number of these communities.
29/03/2012 Lake Atitlan - Chichicastenango - Guatemala City (BLD)
Market day at Chichicastenango
This morning we make the two-hour drive to the vibrant town of Chichicastenango. Each Thursday and Sunday the town hosts one of the largest and most colourful markets in all the Americas. Traders set up the night before and come from all over Guatemala to sell their wares. Stalls packed with stunning textiles, pottery, flowers, wooden masks and hammocks cram the narrow streets and squares and most of the traders wear the colourful, traditional national dress. There is also a large area for fruit and vegetables, and a meat and livestock section. The whole market exudes a terrific atmosphere and it is a memorable day trip. After lunch we drive to Guatemala City.
Westin Camino Real
Avenida la Reforma y 14 Calle
Guatemala City
Ph: 0011-502-2333 3000
Fx: 2337 4313
30/03/2012 Guatemala City - Copan (BLD)
The National Bird of Honduras,
the Macaw
Today we make the morning drive to the Guatemalan-Honduras border. Soon after crossing into Honduras, we arrive at the beautiful colonial town of Copan. After lunch at our hotel we visit the fantastic bird park of Macaw Mountain.
Marina Copan Hotel
Ruinas Copan
Honduras
Ph: 0011-504-651 4070
Fx: 651 4477
31/03/2012 Copan (BLD)
Ruins of Copan, Honduras
Copan is considered by many as one of the most spectacular centres of the Mayan world. This culture, one of the most important in the Central America, flourished in the western part of Honduras. This morning we explore one of the largest and culturally lavish centres of the Mayan world. Built around the 5th Century AD, Copan at its peak had a population of more than 20,000.
01/04/2012 Copan - Rio Dulce (BLD)
Nana Juana's on the Rio Dulce
After breakfast we cross back into Guatemala and start to head north on the main road to Tikal. By lunch time we reach our hotel on the mouth of the River Dulce as it flows from Guatmala's largest lake, Izabel.
Nana Juana
Km 274 Carretera
Rio Dulce
Lake Izabel
Guatemala
Ph: 0011-502 5771 0441
Fx: 4150 6697
02/04/2012 Rio Dulce - Livingston - Tikal (BLD)
Livingston Family
After breakfast we board our boat which takes us along the steep canyons of the Rio Dulce to Livingston. This unique town in Guatemala has a distinctly Carribean feel to it and is a great hightlight in Guatemala. Surrounded by jungle and water , boat transportation provides the only access. This is a settlement of the Garifuna people who speak their own language, as well as Spanish and English. After lunch we return to Rio Dulce and head north to Tikal.
Jungle Lodge
Tikal
Guatemala
Ph: 0011-502-2477 0570
Fx: 24760294
03/04/2012 Tikal (BLD)
Tikal
Today we visit what is widely regarded as one of the world's greatest archeological sites, the magnificent Mayan city of Tikal. Described as the 'New York' of the Mayan civilisation, Tikal is a sprawling complex of more than 3,000 structures deep in the heart of the jungle. Huge temples rise above the forest canopy and monkeys and colourful parrots are abundant in the surrounding jungle. It is an amazing place to conclude our tour of Central America.
04/04/2012 Flores - Guatemala City (BLD)
Sunrise over Tikal
This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Guatemala City.
Depart Flores Tag Airlines 7973, 19.55
Arrive Guatemala City 21.00
On arrival we are transferred to our hotel.
Westin Camino Real
Avenida La Reforma
Guatemala City
Tel: 0011-502-2333 3000
Fax: 23374313
05/04/2012 Guatemala City - Panama - Los Angeles (B)
We transfer to the airport for the flight to Los Angeles via Panama City.
Depart Guatemala City Copa Airlines CM 479, 05.03
Arrive Panama City 08.18
Depart Panama City Copa Airlines, CM 472, 09.20
Arrive Los Angeles 14.10
On arrival in Los Angeles we connect with our flight to Sydney.
Depart Los Angeles Qantas QF 12, 22.30
06/04/2012 In Flight
As we head back to Australia we cross the International Date Line.
07/04/2012 Arrive back in Australia
Arrive Sydney 06.15
On arrival in Sydney we connect with the flight to our chosen Australian airport.
TOUR INFORMATION
Tour Fitness Level: Moderate
MARCH 2012 DEPARTURE
TOUR COST: $16,947
INCLUDED IN TOUR COST:
* All flights between Australia, USA and Central America
* All flights, transportation and transfers within Central America
* All ticketable air taxes (may be subject to change)
* All accommodation (twin-share)
* All meals as specified
* All local guides
* Travel Directors tour escort
* All entrance fees in specified sightseeing
* All visas and courier fees
* All tips and gratuities
NOT INCLUDED IN TOUR COST:
* Insurance
* Personal expenses
Please note that whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the above pricing, currency fluctuations beyond our control can affect final tour costs.
A booking form is to be completed by all passengers, followed by a non-refundable deposit of AUD $2,000 at the time of booking.
All escorted tours are based on a minimum group size of 10 people travelling.
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