Central America Self-guided tours and trips 2025/2026
Navigate Central America at your own pace. Browse our selection of 100+ self-guided trips and tour packages through Central America. Independent exploration offers a unique way to experience Central America.
Physical Rating
Departures
Countries
Tour Types
Accommodations
Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
As my first venture into group touring as a single person, this was an exceptional experience, encouraging me to want to do more.
Wildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Lodge, Hotel, Villa
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Tortuguero
San Jose, La Fortuna, Tortuguero National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Sarapiqui, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero, Quepos
We loved our adventure! The scenery is amazing! Even The summer storms were exciting! The boat trip across the lake below the volcano was an unexpected additional delight!
Active and outdoorBeach
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
6-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Alajuela, Arenal, Mont
San Jose, Alajuela, Arenal, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Manuel Antonio
What an incredible experience of a part of Central America. Guatemala took my breath away and I would highly recommend this tour to anyone considering Latin America. The activities, the pace, the nature and cultural experience was a perfect balance. My only regret is not staying on the second leg of the tour to continue onto Nicaragua, Honduras and El Salvador.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hostel, Home-stay
Age Range
18-39 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Antigua, Playa Del Carmen, Rio D
Antigua, Playa Del Carmen, Rio Dulce, Panajachel, San Juan La Laguna, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, Flores
I thought my experience was fantastic! From meeting people from all over the world and being in similar situations but going through fun activities together. It was a great way to make new friends and learn something new about everywhere. I found the places we visited to be beautiful and having learned a bit about each town was extremely fascinating. I would highly recommend.
Wildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Hostel, Resort
Age Range
18-39 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Arenal Vol
San Jose, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano, Punta Arenas, Playa Santa Teresa
The trip was a great introduction to the Mayan and modern culture in both Belize and Guatemala. We were very happy to be able to experience the width of Belize, from coast to inland, and have a little sample of Guatemala. A perfect combination of history, culture, activities, and recreation.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
The trip was well rounded with as much (or little) action as you like and I loved all of it. The group was great and we had a lot of fun together. Our CEO was very knowledgeable and fun to be around. I would recommend it to everyone who is looking for a couple of active weeks in Costa Rica!
Trekking and HikingRafting
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Puerto Vie
San Jose, La Fortuna, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Pacuare River, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Monteverde
Dreaming of a gentle yet enriching exploration of Costa Rica? The Complete Costa Rica 15 Days tour is crafted with seniors in mind, blending relaxed comfort with unforgettable highlights. Begin and end in San Jose, traversing iconic destinations like Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde’s cloud forests, and the pristine Manuel Antonio National Park. Each stop invites you to marvel at local flora and fauna, meet welcoming locals, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s renowned natural beauty—all at a leisurely pace. The unique selling point of this trip lies in its perfect balance of discovery and ease, making it ideal for older travelers seeking adventure without strenuous activity.
Active and outdoorBeach
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Villa
Age Range
6-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Monteverde, Manuel Ant
San Jose, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero National Park, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Arenal
Experience the best of Costa Rica on the 9-day Pura Vida Experience, a gentle and restorative journey perfect for seniors. Starting and ending in San Jose, this self-guided trip takes you through the lush jungles of Arenal, the wildlife havens of Tortuguero National Park, and the misty trails of Monteverde Cloud Forest. Relax on Tamarindo’s sun-kissed beaches, renowned for both adventure and tranquility. With all logistics—accommodation, transport, and meals—handled, your focus is on enjoying Costa Rica’s natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural richness. The USP: a seamless blend of gentle adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor, making it ideal for those who want to experience Costa Rica’s essence at a comfortable pace.
Active and outdoorAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
6-99 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
San Jose, Tortuguero National Pa
San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Tamarindo Beach
Enjoy the highlights of Costa Rica on this seven-day itinerary, including wonderful rainforest and volcano, tropical jungles and pristine beaches. This is a country of great natural beauty and every destination has something unique to offer. Whether you are watching the Arenal volcano whilst bathing in hot springs or relaxing on the charming beaches of Tamarindo, Costa Rica really is a nature lover's paradise.
Active and outdoorBeach
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
6-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Arenal Volcano Nationa
San Jose, Arenal Volcano National Park, Tamarindo
29 Self Guided Trips in Central America with 81 Reviews
