Call Us 800.528.9300
Ultimate Central America
Tour Description:
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 civlisations and eat food that will guac your world.
Click for larger view.
Dates & Pricing
| Monday 03 Mar 25 — Saturday 22 Mar 25 | Starting at $4,843 |  SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 07 Apr 25 — Saturday 26 Apr 25 | Starting at $4,843 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 12 May 25 — Saturday 31 May 25 | Starting at $4,843 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 16 Jun 25 — Saturday 05 Jul 25 | Starting at $4,843 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 30 Jun 25 — Saturday 19 Jul 25 | Starting at $4,843 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 21 Jul 25 — Saturday 09 Aug 25 | Starting at $4,932 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Saturday 25 Oct 25 — Thursday 13 Nov 25 | Starting at $5,133 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 10 Nov 25 — Saturday 29 Nov 25 | Starting at $4,843 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 05 Jan 26 — Saturday 24 Jan 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 02 Feb 26 — Saturday 21 Feb 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 02 Mar 26 — Saturday 21 Mar 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 06 Apr 26 — Saturday 25 Apr 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 11 May 26 — Saturday 30 May 26 | Starting at $6,325 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 15 Jun 26 — Saturday 04 Jul 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 29 Jun 26 — Saturday 18 Jul 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 20 Jul 26 — Saturday 08 Aug 26 | Starting at $6,325 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 10 Aug 26 — Saturday 29 Aug 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 14 Sep 26 — Saturday 03 Oct 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Sunday 25 Oct 26 — Friday 13 Nov 26 | Starting at $6,585 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 09 Nov 26 — Saturday 28 Nov 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
| Monday 07 Dec 26 — Saturday 26 Dec 26 | Starting at $6,205 | SPECIAL | Get a Quote |
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
Destination & Sightseeing
Destination & SightseeingDining Summary
7 Dinner (D)
18 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
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.
Oaxaca: Stroll the cobbled streets of one of Mexico’s most authentic cities. Sample the epic street food and revel in the laid-back pace.
Oaxaca: Test your courage with a ‘straight up’ of this potent national drink.
Oaxaca: Explore one of the earliest cities of MesoAmerica. Then hit up the market for some local keepsakes.
Oaxaca: Swoop into the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan region. Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
Merida: A photogenic fiesta of colour and culture. This is the perfect place to get a real taste of life in Yucatan.
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.
7 Dinner (D)
18 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
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.
Oaxaca: Stroll the cobbled streets of one of Mexico’s most authentic cities. Sample the epic street food and revel in the laid-back pace.
Oaxaca: Test your courage with a ‘straight up’ of this potent national drink.
Oaxaca: Explore one of the earliest cities of MesoAmerica. Then hit up the market for some local keepsakes.
Oaxaca: Swoop into the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan region. Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
Merida: A photogenic fiesta of colour and culture. This is the perfect place to get a real taste of life in Yucatan.
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.
ITINERARY
ITINERARYStart 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 – and that's before we top it all off with a beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene.
Puerto Vallarta
Today you’re free to explore Puerto Vallarta however you like. You can surf, or zip line, 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.
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 get a feel for the old and new world architecture this place is known for – and then sample some seriously electric nightlife. It's time to learn about the city known as the 'Pearl of the West', Guadalajara, with its four main squares and glorious cathedral. Then you could go and find a spot to watch one of the city's famous live Mariachi bands do its thing.
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 the Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel himself.
Guanajuato to Mexico City
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. Mexico City is the largest city in the country and impressively, the oldest capital in Central America. Known for its Aztec temple, its surprising altitude at 2200m, and mountainous landscape, this place is busy, bustling and oh-so-wonderful.
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, tamales and tacos. Even head out and get a little loco, if the mood takes you...
Mexico City
It’s a busy one today, travellers. Archaeological city 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. And if you happen to be here at the right time, you might even get to experience Lucha Libre, Mexican wrestling!
Mexico City to Oaxaca
Meeting your TM and fellow travellers this morning, you'll be setting off for Oaxaca (pronounced Wa-ha-ka)! Have you got it? Great - let's hit the road. Welcome to Oaxaca, with its bohemian bars, charming colonial buildings and ridiculously pretty churches. Commonly known as the gastronomical capital of Mexico, the food here is guaranteed to guac your world. The perfect drink to wash it all down? Mezcal, of course.
Oaxaca
Today, you're going to soak up some serious Oaxaca vibes with a guided city tour where you'll get to check out the local markets. The colourful city streets are going to be the perfect place for some Insta shots, and if you can be dragged away from the views for long enough, there's plenty of delicacies to try during your free night.
Oaxaca to Merida
Adios Oaxaca, Merida is calling our names! And we won't waste any time, hopping on an included flight to whiz us there without delay. Here in mellow Merida, you’ll explore Mexico’s quiet side. Wander down cobbled streets and grand plazas on a unique walking tour, with some free time to explore the bustling markets. Later you can feast yourself on Yucatan specialities and head off for a blissful slumber.
Merida to Cancun
Pack up your swag of Mexican trinkets and say goodbye to the calm oasis of Merida and hello yet another incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed site: Chichen Itza. Next stop, 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, and the worlds that came before us. Afterwards, we’ll take a dip in a cenote – which is the best way to beat the Mexican heat. In stark contrast, next up is Mexico’s super resort – Cancun. With high energy vibes this stop is a no brainer when it comes to getting your fiesta on. One suggestion for tonight's dinner at the Mercado 28, a busy market serving true Mexican delights.
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 evening.
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 amongst you, a plethora of seaside bars and restaurants are here to blow your mind with their delicious cocktails and local recipes.
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 sunshine, sampling fresh seafood and getting down to some reggae rhythms... **PLEASE NOTE: this day may be replaced with another night in Playa del Carmen when the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled. Caye Caulker activities will be rescheduled so all inclusions and optional experiences are still offered as per itinerary. A Free Time Add On Activity of ATV riding may also be offered by the Trip Manager when the itinerary has 2 nights in Playa del Carmen.
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 with colourful hammocks, painted tables and the most laid-back vibes we know. You'll be begging to stay longer. And your wish is our command.
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.
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 stunning country: Guatemala. This leg of the trip will see you travel overland through Guatemala’s Peten forests. This afternoon before we drop anchor at our hotel, you could zoom around the treetops like a monkey but securely attached on a zipline of course! Later on you will doze off to the tranquil sounds of the nature all around you, but in a comfy bed with all the amenities you need.
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 beautiful Antigua. This place isn't just about the dreamy scenery - there's plenty of history to soak up too. You'll notice colorful rooftop gardens dotted amongst the crumbling colonial buildings and you'll hear the clip clop of the horse drawn carriages that are still a favoured form of transport today. You'll be glad to know there are two peaceful nights planned here in the old colonial town set right beneath two massive volcanoes.
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 own chocolate, then that is also a rather delicious option where you'll learn about the process from start to end and take home the results of your efforts. Guatemalan delights tonight? Yes please. We'll get local over chiles rellenos (or peppers stuffed to the brim with vegetables, meat and sauces). You're sure to hear a collective mmmm.
End 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!
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
