THE 10 BEST Self-guided & Independent Tours and Trips in Central America 2025/2026

Accommodations

BudgetSimple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Mid-rangeComfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
PremiumUpscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.

Cancun to Antigua Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Discover the ultimate adventure from Cancun to Antigua with this thrilling travel pass! Immerse yourself in vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes as you explore Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. Highlights include snorkeling in Belize's dazzling coral reefs, visiting ancient Mayan ruins, and experiencing the charming colonial ambiance of Antigua. Perfect for backpackers and cultural enthusiasts, this tour offers a seamless blend of history, nature, and authentic local experiences. Embark on a journey that promises unforgettable memories and unique adventures!

VolcanoesSnorkeling

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Home-stay

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Antigua, Cancún, Belize City, Sa

Antigua, Cancún, Belize City, San Ignacio, Flores, Rio Dulce, Lanquin, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Chetumal, Bacalar, Caye Caulker, Caye Caulker

Duration21 days

From

USD 1,214

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Cancun to Antigua Express Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Cancun to Antigua with Bamba's surreal travel pass. Dive into the turquoise waters of Mexican cenotes, explore the majestic Mayan ruins of Tulum, and revel in the vibrant nightlife of Playa del Carmen. Journey through Guatemala's lush landscapes and uncover the enchanting beauty of Lake Atitlán. Conclude in the colorful colonial city of Antigua, where cobblestone streets and historic architecture await. This adventure promises diverse experiences and cultural immersion at every turn!

Cultural, religious and historic sites

Tour Type

Group Tour

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Antigua, Cancún, Lanquin, Playa

Antigua, Cancún, Lanquin, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Chetumal, Caye Caulker, Flores

Duration13 days

From

USD 858

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Antigua to Cancun Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Antigua to Cancun, immersing yourself in vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the rich history of Mayan ruins, dive into crystal-clear cenotes, and traverse lush jungles teeming with wildlife. Revel in local gastronomy and energetic street life, experiencing authentic Central American charm. Perfect for adventure seekers, this tour promises unique encounters, from traditional markets to secluded beaches. Seamlessly connect with fellow travelers while making memories that last a lifetime. Discover an adventure like no other!

Cultural, religious and historic sites

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Home-stay, Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Antigua, Cancún, San Ignacio, Be

Antigua, Cancún, San Ignacio, Belize City, Caye Caulker, Chetumal, Bacalar, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, Lanquin, Rio Dulce, Flores

Duration21 days

From

USD 1,281

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Cancun to Panama City Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable Central American adventure, exploring pristine beaches, vibrant cities, and lush jungles. This travel pass takes you from Cancun to Panama City, offering immersive experiences like snorkeling in Belize’s Blue Hole, discovering Mayan ruins in Guatemala, and hiking Costa Rica’s volcanoes. Enjoy local cultures, authentic cuisines, and breathtaking landscapes. Perfect for thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts, this journey provides incredible opportunities to make lasting memories while venturing through this diverse and captivating region.

Active and outdoor

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hostel, Home-stay, Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Panama City, Cancún, Belize City

Panama City, Cancún, Belize City, Flores, Rio Dulce, Lanquin, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, Playa Del Carmen, Antigua, Copán Ruinas, El Tunco, Leon, Granada, San Jorge, San Juan Del Sur, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Manuel Antonio National Park, San Jose, Tulum, Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo De Sarapiqui, Bocas Del Toro, San Blas Islands, Bacalar, Chetumal, Caye Caulker

Duration48 days

From

USD 4,231

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San Jose to Cancun Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable Central America adventure with a travel pass connecting San Jose to Cancun. This journey offers diverse experiences from exploring lush Costa Rican rainforests and discovering ancient Mayan ruins to relaxation on pristine Mexican beaches. Highlights include vibrant local markets, culturally-rich towns, and thrilling activities like zip-lining and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Ideal for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts, this route promises an immersive blend of nature, history, and vibrant local flavors. Book your tropical escapade now!

Active and outdoor

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hostel, Home-stay, Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Cancún, Leon, El Tunco

San Jose, Cancún, Leon, El Tunco, Copán Ruinas, Antigua, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, Lanquin, Monteverde, Flores, Belize City, Caye Caulker, Chetumal, Bacalar, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, Liberia City, San Juan Del Sur, Granada

Duration33 days

From

USD 2,273

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Cancun to San Jose Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Cancun to San Jose, uncovering the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Central America. Experience thrilling activities like exploring ancient Mayan ruins, snorkeling in crystal-clear Caribbean waters, and hiking lush rainforests. Delight in local cuisine, lively nightlife, and charming colonial towns. This meticulously crafted travel itinerary offers unique experiences and seamless transportation, ensuring a hassle-free, exhilarating journey perfect for culture enthusiasts and natural beauty seekers. Discover the hidden gems of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Costa Rica.

Trekking and HikingZip lining

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Hostel, Home-stay, Hotel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

San Jose, Cancún, Belize City, S

San Jose, Cancún, Belize City, San Ignacio, Flores, Rio Dulce, Lanquin, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, Playa Del Carmen, Antigua, Copán Ruinas, El Tunco, Leon, Granada, San Jorge, Ometepe, San Juan Del Sur, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Tulum, Bacalar, Chetumal, Caye Caulker

Duration39 days

From

USD 2,656

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Panama City to Mexico City Travel Pass

No booking fees

Best price guaranteed

Embark on a vibrant journey from Panama City to Mexico City with Bamba Travel, exploring stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and iconic landmarks. Delight in unique experiences such as traversing the Panama Canal, wandering through colonial Cartagena, adventuring in Costa Rica’s lush rainforests, and diving into the vibrant markets of Oaxaca. Savor authentic Latin American cuisine, immerse in local traditions, and enjoy seamless travel connections. Perfect for thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts, this adventure promises unforgettable memories.

Local culture

Tour Type

Group Tour

Accommodation

Home-stay, Hotel, Hostel

Age Range

18-99 yrs

Operated in

english

Destinations

Mexico City, Panama City, San Bl

Mexico City, Panama City, San Blas Islands, San Jose, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Liberia City, San Juan Del Sur, San Jorge, Ometepe, Granada, Leon, El Tunco, Copán Ruinas, Antigua, Panajachel, San Jorge La Laguna, San Cristobal De Las Casas, Pochutla, Puerto Escondido, Bocas Del Toro, Oaxaca, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Tortuguero

Duration42 days

From

USD 4,019

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Guatemala Highlight Experience

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Experience some of the best highlights of Guatemala with this 7-day, multi-location trip around the country! Start from Antigua and end in Guatemala City. Experience the Spanish colonial city of Antigua before trekking up Pacaya Volcano and enjoy the stunning views. Then, travel to Lanquin Village and explore the Kanba Caves before swimming at the natural crystal pools of Semuc Champey nature reserve. Heading on to Flores Island, visit the ancient Mayan Temples of the Tikal archaeological site, and savor some leisure time on the island. Finally, head back to Guatemala city. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get a taste of Guatemala in just one week. Please see more details in the itinerary and what's included sections.

Cultural, religious and historic sites

Tour Type

Private Tour

Accommodation

Eco Lodge, Hotel, Lodge

Age Range

10-79 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

Antigua, Guatemala City, Flores

Antigua, Guatemala City, Flores, Lanquin, Pacaya Volcano, Tikal

Duration7 days

From

USD 900

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Costa Rican Adventure

(2 reviews )

Trip customizable

Best price guaranteed

Great tour. I highly recommend it!! Rainforest hikes and local guides were great. From boarding to departure, from Costa Rica experience was 5 stars!

Rainforest and jungle visits

Tour Type

Independent Tour

Accommodation

Hotel, Villa

Age Range

8-99 yrs

Operated in

English

Destinations

San Jose, Manuel Antonio Nationa

San Jose, Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano, Arenal, Manuel Antonio

Duration8 days

From

USD 892

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All Central America Self-Guided Tours and Trips

9 Self Guided Trips in Central America

Cancun to Antigua Travel Pass

Cancun to Antigua Express Travel Pass

Antigua to Cancun Travel Pass

Cancun to Panama City Travel Pass

San Jose to Cancun Travel Pass

Cancun to San Jose Travel Pass

Panama City to Mexico City Travel Pass

Guatemala Highlight Experience

Costa Rican Adventure

9 Self Guided Trips in Central America

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Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

All Central America Self-Guided Tours and Trips

9 Self Guided Trips in Central America

9 Self Guided Trips in Central America