Central America III
Mar 27th, 2026 – Apr 4th, 2026
8 days · 7 nights
Wander Expeditions
5+ years group traveling
Welcome to the Central American Expedition! This adventurous overland journey will take you through a diverse tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Starting in the charming city of San José, Costa Rica, we'll embark on the roadtrip of a lifetime that will lead us through the heart of Central America. We have created the most efficient itinerary without sacrifizing the best experiences this region has to offer. Our roadtrip will be the best way to visit these 6 countries: Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala and Belize (as add-on). One of those Expeditions we won't offer often. Don't miss the chance!
Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival San José (Costa Rica)
We will meet in San José (Costa Rica), the expedition officially starts here in the early morning on the following day. To maximize your experience, ensure you arrive in Costa Rica before November 26th. We recommend arriving a few days early to explore the area before embarking on this overland Expedition!
Day 1: San José to Rivas (Nicaragua)
We'll kick off our adventure by heading to Rio Celeste National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant blue river, before crossing the first border of our expedition into Nicaragua.
Overnight: Rivas (Nicaragua)
Day 2: San Juan del Sur - Granada
We'll make our way to the laid-back coastal town of San Juan del Sur, offering opportunities to relax on the beach, explore the town, or engage in various water activities. We'll then venture to Granada, known for its colonial architecture and picturesque surroundings.
Overnight: Granada
Day 3: Managua & Leon
Today, our route takes us to Managua before continuing to the charming city of Leon in Nicaragua.
Overnight: Leon
Day 4: Leon to Tegucigalpa (Honduras)
We'll cross the border into Honduras and reach its capital, Tegucigalpa. We will explore the city in the afternoon.
Overnight in Tegucigalpa
Day 5: Tegucigalpa & El Salvador.
We will drive from Tegucigalpa to the capital of our next country, San Salvador.
Overnight: San Salvador.
Day 6: Coatepeque & Volcan Santa Ana - Antigua Guatemala.
We'll embark on an early morning excursion to Coatepeque and Volcan Santa Ana before crossing the border into Guatemala, arriving in the picturesque town of Antigua by nightfall.
Overnight: Antigua
Day 7: Antigua and flight to Flores.
Free day to discover Antigua, known for its colonial buildings.
In the evening, we'll catch a domestic flight to Flores, located in the eastern part of Guatemala.
Overnight in Flores
Day 8: Tikal & Flores.
We'll explore the renowned Tikal Ruins in the morning, leaving the afternoon free for relaxation and exploration of Flores.
Overnight in Flores.
Day 9: Fly out.
Our Central American expedition comes to an end as you prepare to depart from Flores.
Alternatively, continuing to Belize will be offered as an add-on when you book.
What this expedition offers
Things to know
Our selection process
Takes only 10 minutes and it helps us create the best travel family!
Absolutely unforgettable. Traveling through Central America was so much more than a trip. It was an experience built around connection and shared adventure. From volcano hikes to pyramid sunrises, every destination was stunning, but what truly made it special was the group I shared it with. I’ve come home with a head full of memories, several crazy stories, and a few friends for life.
The best introduction to this part of the world. West Africa is sometimes called "Africa for beginners". I can see it. Mostly laid back, beautiful coast, incredible sightseeing and smiley locals. Add in the mix the Vodun culture, the colourful dances and thrilling rituals and you have an adventure to remember. Benin has quickly rose to being one of my favourite countries and the expedition family some of my favourite people.
History, history, history! Wow, is all I can say. Libya's recent history has created an isolation from tourism, and made this a relatively untouched Mediterranean gem. The Roman and Phoenician ruins are just mind-blowing. The trip out to the Algerian-Libyan border of The Sahara Desert is long, but well worth it to see Ghadames. Definitely say, "Yes"!
What a hilarious group of explorers who made the long drives fun! The guys were great dancers,too, when faced with rejection by the local females at the bar/dance hall, they had no problem dancing with themselves! Music, song and "car dancing" kept the mood going the whole time. Views were outstanding in The Pamir region.
I really cherish the people I met on my 1st "YES", I said to Afghanistan. It was a small group of very empathetic and adventurous people. We were all nervous at first, until we settled into the pace of our Expedition led by Elena. The people, the lead, the guide and drivers, and the shop keepers were so welcoming and professional. Kindest and most generous people I've met in recent years. I highly recommend everyone visit Afghanistan.
Such a beautiful place with very beautiful people. Patagonia is a very unique and must see place. The crew is what makes it happen.
Wander Expeditions
Details
Experience unforgettable group trips with Wander Expeditions! Discover unique destinations while forming lasting connections. Our curated travel families ensure a fun, flexible, and fearless adventure for all.
To help protect your payment, always communicate and make payments through our official channels.