Mexico to Costa Rica Youth Adventure - 30 days

30 days
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Small Group Tour
GROUP TOUR (FOR AGES 18 to 39): Journey from Playa del Carmen on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula to San Jose in Costa Rica on this 30-day tour that also takes in Belize and Guatemala. Take in some of Central America's best ancient treasures, including Chichen Itza, Tulum and Tikal. Hike up the Arenal and Acatenango volcanoes, spot wildlife in national parks like M...
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

    • Chichen Itza - See one of the New Seven Wonders of the World on an included tour, and swim in a nearby cenote
    • Tulum - Discover the historic Tulum ruins and relax on the beach with a day trip to this popular destination on the Yucatan
    • Caye Caulker - Snorkel in the pristine waters of the Belize Barrier Reef and unwind on the serene beaches of this peaceful island
    • Flores - Explore the vast, ancient Tikal ruins with the towering Temple of the Grand Jaguar offering a glimpse into the mysteries of the Mayan civilization
    • Coban - Delve into the eerie Candelaria Caves, an 80km-long system believed to be the entrance to the Mayan underworld and enjoy a scenic drive through mountainous landscapes to Coban
    • Panajachel - Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán and explore the peaceful villages along its shores
    • Antigua - Hike up Mayan Face Mountain under the moonlight and enjoy a panoramic sunrise over Lake Atitlan, plus enjoy plenty of free time in this colonial town
    • Acatenango - Embark on a challenging 7-hour hike to the summit of Acatenango for spectacular views of the Fuego volcano and its fiery eruptions
    • San Jose - Join a guided walking tour of the Costa Rican capital, taking in all of the city's main landmarks with a local guide
    • La Fortuna - Trek around Arenal Volcano, explore the surrounding jungle on a night-time nature walk, relax in hot springs and meet a local family

What's this trip about?

    GROUP TOUR (FOR AGES 18 to 39): Journey from Playa del Carmen on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula to San Jose in Costa Rica on this 30-day tour that also takes in Belize and Guatemala. Take in some of Central America's best ancient treasures, including Chichen Itza, Tulum and Tikal. Hike up the Arenal and Acatenango volcanoes, spot wildlife in national parks like Manuel Antonio, Rio Celeste and Rincon de la Vieja. Cruise Lake Atitlan, meet local families across the region, and enjoy guided sightseeing in cities like San Jose, Antigua. With plenty of time for relaxation and swimming on the beaches of Playa del Carmen, Caye Caulker, Samara and more!

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportAll internal ground transport included
Start CityPlaya del Carmen
End CitySan Jose

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

Attractions

  • Antigua
  • Arenal Volcano
  • Caye Caulker
  • Chichen Itza
  • Flores
  • La Fortuna
  • Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Panajachel
  • Playa del Carmen
  • Tikal
  • Tulum

Min Group Size

  • Min Group Size: 20

Max Group Size

  • Max Group Size: 20

Trip includes

    • 29 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 3 dinners
    • 29 night accommodation (3 Nights Playa del Carmen – Twin/Double Rooms, 1 Night Bacalar – Twin/Double Rooms, 3 Nights Caye Caulker – Twin/Double Rooms, 2 Nights Flores – Twin/Double/Triple Rooms, 2 Night Cobán – Twin/Double/Triple Rooms, 1 Night Panajachel, Lake Atitlán – Twin/Double/Triple Rooms, 1 Night San Juan, Lake Atitlán – Twin/Double/Triple Rooms, 3 Nights Antigua – Twin/Double/Triple Rooms, 1 Night Acatenango – Twin/Double Cabins (Sleeping Bags & Foam Mats Provided), 2 Nights San José – Twin/Double Rooms, 3 Nights La Fortuna – Twin/Double/Triple Rooms, 2 Night Rincon De La Vieja National Park – Twin/Double Rooms, 3 Nights Samara Beach – Twin/Double Rooms & 2 Nights Esterillos – Twin/Double Rooms)
    • Escorted by a tour leader, with local guides for included sightseeing
    • Airport arrival transfer on day 1
    • All transportation in private and public vehicles, including buses, boats and ferries
    • Guided Chichen Itza visit
    • Swimming at a cenote
    • Tulum day trip
    • Sunset boat trip on Bacalar Lagoon
    • Mayan cooking class in Belize
    • Guided Tikal ruins visit
    • Semuc Champey & river tubing
    • Local Mayan homestay in San Juan La Laguna
    • Mayan Face (Indian Nose) hike with guide
    • 2 day Acatenango Volcano trek with guides
    • Antigua walking tour
    • San Jose walking tour
    • Entrance to Ox Cart Museum
    • Local farm visit & lunch in La Fortuna
    • Guided trekking along Arenal Volcano trails
    • Natural hot springs in La Fortuna
    • La Fortuna guided night-time jungle walk
    • Maleku cultural visit
    • Rio Celeste National Park entrance
    • Rincon de la Vieja National Park entrance
    • Guided Liberia walking tour
    • Pottery demonstration
    • Beach hopping day along the Guanacaste coast
    • Manuel Antonio National Park entrance
    • Crocodile Bridge
    • Your carbon emissions - offset! (Our partner accurately measures the CO2 emissions of your tour and 100% offset them through planting the required amount of trees)
    • Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day : 1 Playa del Carmen

Hola! Upon your arrival in Playa Del Carmen, we'll take you directly to our hotel. You'll have ample time to unwind after your flight before gathering with the group and heading out for an exciting first night in the city together. We'll get together with the group fo...

Day : 2 Chichen Itza

Playa del Carmen - Chichen Itza - Playa del Carmen. Today, we're heading to explore Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Led by a local guide, we'll delve into the fascinating myths and stunning sights of these ancient ruins, including the iconic T...

Day : 3 Tulum

Playa del Carmen - Tulum - Playa del Carmen. This morning, we're setting off for Tulum. Once there, we can either explore the archaeological Tulum Ruins or enjoy the crystal-clear waters at Tulum Beach. Once back in Playa, we'll have dinner and drinks. We can tuck into some avocado, take a tequila shot (or two), and have a great time! 

Day : 4 Bacalar

Playa del Carmen - Bacalar. Today we set off on our journey south through the Yucatan Peninsula. Our destination is Bacalar, famous for its breathtakingly vibrant blue lagoon. After checking in, we'll explore the lagoon in the most captivating way - on a sunset boat r...

Day : 5 Caye Caulker

Bacalar - Caye Caulker (Belize). Today, we continue heading south as we cross the border into Belize, the next country on our trip. Known for the world’s second-largest barrier reef and its vibrant Caribbean culture, Belize serves as our entry point to island life. We...

Day : 6 Caye Caulker

Prepare your snorkels as we embark on a boat journey to the stunning Hol Chan Marine Reserve, renowned for its diverse marine life. We'll make several stops along the barrier reef, providing ample chances to observe colourful fish and corals. We also hope to spot gent...

Day : 7 Caye Caulker

Today is dedicated to some well-earned relaxation. You might go directly to the beach to enjoy the sunshine and relax, or perhaps explore the island’s renowned Split, known for its all-day music and refreshing drinks. The island's atmosphere is perfect for dipping in ...

Day : 8 Flores

Caye Caulker - Flores (Guatemala). As we leave our island paradise, we look forward to exploring our third country: Guatemala. First, we journey through Belize, stopping to visit a local Mayan village for lunch. We'll prepare a traditional Mayan meal together, gaining...

Day : 9 Tikal

Prepare to embrace your inner Indiana Jones as we journey back thousands of years. Nestled deep within the northern jungles of Guatemala lies a vast archaeological site, one of the largest remnants of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. Highlights include the towerin...

Day : 10 Coban

Flores - Coban. Guatemala is a sizable country, and today we have a lot of ground to cover as we travel south toward the Guatemalan Highlands. Not to worry - we'll take a break by visiting the Candelaria Caves. This cave system extends approximately 80 km and is highl...

Day : 11 Coban

This morning, we’ll embark on an adventure into the highlands, whisked away by a fleet of 4x4s. Brace yourself as we navigate the winding mountain roads, which offer breathtaking views on both sides. Our adventure continues with a hike into the jungle, where a stunnin...

Day : 12 Panajachel

Coban - Chichicastenango - Panajachel. This morning, our journey takes us south through the highlands, with a stop in the vibrant town of Chichicastenango. On market days, it hosts one of the largest markets in Central America. Next, we will head to Panajachel, which ...

Day : 13 San Juan La Laguna

Panajachel - San Juan La Laguna. For many people living near Lake Atitlan, the fastest way to travel and complete tasks between towns is by taking local boats across the lake. Naturally, we’ll do the same - the views from the water are truly stunning! Our first destin...

Day : 14 Antigua

San Juan La Laguna - Antigua. Today, we're beginning early with a moonlit hike to the summit of Mayan Face Mountain, known for its unique silhouette that resembles a face when viewed from below. It's an early start but worth it for the incredible sunrise that reveals ...

Day : 15 Antigua

Today you can take advantage of a well-deserved lie in after our early start yesterday. Today is completely free for you to explore the charming colonial town of Antigua, a favourite among tourists and locals alike. With its breathtaking Spanish architecture from the ...

Day : 16 Acatenango

It's another active day as we lace up our hiking boots and embark on an adventure to the majestic volcanoes you've admired from afar. This hike is challenging but promises to become one of your favourites. After several hours, we'll reach the summit of Acatenango Volc...

Day : 17 Antigua

Just like any adventure, what ascends must eventually descend. Once we come down from the volcano, you'll have the opportunity to freshen up and further explore the streets of Antigua at leisure, revisiting any attractions you might have missed. Afterwards, we'll get ...

Day : 18 San Jose

Antigua - San Jose (Costa Rica). This morning we say farewell to Guatemala and transfer to the airport for our included flight to San Jose, Costa Rica. Once we land in San Jose, you'll have the chance to dive into a new culture and explore the city, depending on our a...

Day : 19 La Fortuna

San Jose - La Fortuna. Today, we explore Costa Rica's capital, San Jose on a walking tour of the city. Our local guide will showcase the fascinating architecture and historical landmarks at every turn. Afterward, we'll depart the city and head to La Fortuna, making a ...

Day : 20 Arenal Volcano National Park

We'll get even closer to Arenal Volcano today with a trek into the jungle and around the volcano. We'll explore various trails, each providing stunning views of the volcano and its lava fields. As evening descends and the sun sets, a different world of wildlife comes ...

Day : 21 La Fortuna

Today is our final day in La Fortuna, and we begin with a visit to a local family, who have lived in La Fortuna for generations. They will guide us around their farm, where we might observe some of the wildlife that shares their home. You'll learn about the harvesting...

Day : 22 Rio Celeste

La Fortuna - Rio Celeste National Park - Rincon de la Vieja. Leaving La Fortuna, our first stop today is at a traditional Maleku house. The Maleku are one of Costa Rica's indigenous groups, and this visit provides a unique opportunity to learn about their traditional ...

Day : 23 Rincon de la Vieja

Get ready for an adventure in Rincon de la Vieja National Park, where the jungle trails are a great place to take in some of Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity. In the morning, we'll hike through the park, exploring volcanic vents and mud pits, and encountering its ...

Day : 24 Samara

Rincon de la Vieja - Liberia - Samara. Our journey continues as we make our way towards Samara. On the way, we’ll stop in Liberia for lunch (no, not that one!) and take a brief walking tour with a local guide to experience a more authentic side of Costa Rica. Followin...

Day : 25 Samara

Pack your beach towel and sunscreen because today we're exploring the breathtaking coastline of Guanacaste. We'll visit several nearby beaches, often regarded as some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica, complete with palm trees, white sand, crystal-clear blue waters,...

Day : 26 Samara

Today is completely free for you to explore everything Samara has in store, or to do absolutely nothing - it's up to you. Whether you're interested in a calming yoga session or something more adventurous like a surf lesson or sea kayaking with snorkelling, there's something for everyone. Alternatively, relaxing by the sea with a cold drink and soaking up the sun is always a great choice.

Day : 27 Esterillos

Samara - Esterillos. This morning, we journey south to Esterillos, a beachside haven famous for its surfing. This is a relatively quiet corner of Costa Rica and it's not unusual to find this vast beach nearly deserted. This picturesque town and its beach often go unno...

Day : 28 Manuel Antonio National Park

Esterillos - Manuel Antionio National Park - Esterillos. Today, we are visiting the breathtaking Manuel Antonio National Park, so make sure your camera is at the ready! As Costa Rica's most visited national park, you'll soon see why during our exploration of its jungl...

Day : 29 San Jose

Esterillos - San Jose. Departing the coast, we begin our journey back to San Jose. En route, we'll pause at the Crocodile Bridge, providing an excellent view of these remarkable prehistoric animals. Once we have checked back into the hotel, you'll have one last chance...

Day : 30 San Jose

Our tour comes to an end today. You can depart this morning, making your own way to the airport or your next destination. Although there is no departure transfer included, your tour leader will be available to help you plan your onward travel and is on hand to assist you. Safe travels!

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Dates & Availability

Price From $4,715
Price per day$157
Last Updated: 3/24/2025

All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 5 persons booked on the tour. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with other travellers. Please note that if paying the 'Shared' price, your accommodation will be in a mix of mostly Twin, as well as possibly some Triple, Quad and Dorm accommodation. Please see the rooming breakdown in the Inclusions for more information.

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with On The Go Tours.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • International flights & visas
    • Optional activities
    • Airport departure transfer
    • Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!

Accommodation

3-star hotels & homestays
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Min: 18yrs / Max: 39yrs
Additional Information
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Trip ID
onthegotours-MTCRYA

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