Short gaps via Central America
Central America is a great introduction to Latin and Spanish culture. Central America is made up of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and Panama.
Mexico is the most popular country to visit for a stop gap and you can travel around the county or the area in a matter of weeks.
Central America is scattered with Mayan ruins, fantastic underwater landscapes, almost-untouched rainforests, stunning tropical islands and temperamental volcanoes; Central America has plenty to offer for backpackers and tourists, plus it's a perfect continent to pick up a smattering of Spanish.
Once you're there, it's really easy to travel around amazing countries like Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico. Lush rainforests, incredible diving, delicious food, Latin culture and jaw-dropping Aztec and Mayan ruins are waiting for you... all you need to do is get there…
If you have any time between school, university or a job then a stop gap is for you. You’ll be amazed what you can do in a short amount of time.
Key stops in Central America
To explore Central America you'll generally fly into/out of Cancun or Mexico City in Mexico. They’re the two most popular airports in Central America and are therefore the cheapest to fly in to.
There are good transport links throughout Central America so getting from country to country isn’t a problem. Most travelling is done either by bus or taxi.
Popular routes that include Central America
London >> Mexico City >> Rio de Janeiro >> Buenos Aires >> London
London >> Mexico City >> Belmopan >> Guatemala City >> Tegucigalpa >> Managua >> San Jose >> London
What we recommend...
We recommend a little circle around Mexico, much like this:
Mexico - Belize - Guatemala - Mexico
This is the most popular trip through this region, and perfect for first time travellers. You can land in Mexico to taste a bit of the unique Mexican flavour, pop next door to Belize to sample one of the largest and most beautiful coral reefs in the world and then take a trip through Guatemala to see all the amazing Mayan ruins and history before heading back up to Mexico.
Cheap buses will take you around from start to finish, either the cheap local 'chicken buses', or we recommend the air conditioned coaches that are quicker, more comfortable and very affordable.
Why Central America?
Central America offers you the chance to practise your Spanish - or learn some - in vast, chaotic cities or almost-untouched rainforest. The wonderful Mayan ruins scattered through the region are another attraction, as is the chance to dive in some amazing underwater landscapes. Mexico, Belize and Guatemala are three favourite destinations. These countries are great for backpackers, with loads of cheap accommodation, great food and adventures waiting to be had. Despite this, they're far from overrun with tourists, and it's easy-peasy to get off the beaten track for some authentic experiences.
The food is to die for in Central America and is worth the trip alone. The spicy bean salads, the rice dishes and chillies galore… if you’re a food tourist, then you’re going to love Central America.
What others say…
Cat Barrow:
Mini World Experience - 4 city flight from £879pp
Countries: Australia, Singapore, United States of America
Round the world flight fare only
Call: 0845 344 7667
Maya Encounter
Countries:
Belize,
Guatemala,
Mexico
Duration:
from 17 Days
- Amble over Tulum's jungle ruins,
- Experience traditional life in San Ignacio,
- Chill out seaside in Playa del Carmen,
- Haggle in the markets of Chichicastenango,
- Enjoy colonial architecture in Antigua...
Quetzal Highway
Countries: Belize, Guatemala, Mexico
Bask in the sun on a beautiful Caribbean beach, explore Mayan ruins surrounded by deep jungle, and visit laid-back local villages on this quick adventure through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala.
Adventure For Less! - Book now and get 15% Off this tour.
Little Mayan Ways - Start & Finish Cancun via Flores
Countries:
Belize,
Guatemala,
Mexico
Duration:
from 12 Days to 22 Days
Included stops: Cancun - Merida - Campeche - Palenque - Flores/Tikal - Belize City - Chetumal - Bacalar Lagoon - Tulum - Playa del Carmen - Cancun End
Grand Mexico & Panama
Countries:
Belize,
Costa Rica,
Guatemala,
Honduras,
Mexico,
Nicaragua,
Panama
Duration:
from 13 Days to 49 Days
Visit seven countries on this epic Central American trip, starting in Mexico City and traveling south to Panama City. There are plenty of adventures to enjoy along the way, from walking along a canopy walkway in cloud forest, sea kayaking, zip lining, diving, wildlife spotting and snorkelling. You'll see charming colonial towns and ancient Mayan ruins on a great journey through this stunning region.
Adventure For Less! - Book now and get 15% Off this tour.
Chido Ways - Mexico City to Cancun via Puerto Escondido
Countries:
Mexico
Duration:
from 10 Days to 20 Days
Included stops: Mexico City - Puebla - Oaxaca - Puerto Escondido – Pochutla (Mazunte & Zipolite) - San Cristobal - Palenque - Campeche - Merida – Cancun
Antigua to San José
Countries: Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua
Be captivated by the colour and warmth of Central America along scenic routes between Antigua and San José. There are a myriad of adventures you can enjoy along the way, from horse riding to forest canopy walks, river rafting to sea kayaking, zip lines to snorkelling over coral reefs. There will be plenty of opportunities to make friends with local people, explore the history of the Mayan culture and discover the exciting nightlife of Central American cities.
Real Bamba Ways - Mexico City to Cancun via Guatemala & Belize
Countries:
Belize,
Guatemala,
Mexico
Duration:
from 14 Days to 30 Days
Included stops: Mexico City - Puebla - Oaxaca - San Cristobal - Panajachel - Antigua - Lanquin - Flores/Tikal - Belize City - Chetumal - Bacalar Lagoon - Tulum - Playa del Carmen - Cancun
Big Mayan Ways - Start & Finish Cancun via Antigua
Countries:
Belize,
Guatemala,
Mexico
Duration:
from 15 Days to 31 Days
Included stops: Cancun - Merida - Campeche - Palenque - San Cristobal - Panajachel - Antigua - Lanquin - Flores/Tikal - Belize City - Chetumal - Bacalar Lagoon - Tulum - Playa del Carmen - Cancun End
Costa Rica Encompassed
Countries:
Costa Rica
Duration:
from 7 Days to 14
This is the ultimate tour for nature lovers who want to experience Costa Rica’s complete spectrum. From outstanding national parks to active volcanoes, exceptional beaches, coral reef and a plethora of wildlife, Costa Rica has it all. Explore the misty cloud forest of Monteverde, hike up the active Arenal Volcano and hear the sizzle of red-hot lava on its slopes, then enjoy some amazing underwater scenery at the reefs of Cahuita National Park.
Adventure For Less! - Book now and get 15% Off this tour.