The two tour leader Wilfred and Tarik were superb. They moulded into the group with their friendly manner but remained very professional and knowledgeable throughout. Did they train in the Happy Store?
This was a fabulous trip with a great tour leader. The last tour of the season turned out to be a very good option; it was pretty cold at times, but we had lots of sunshine and you don't want it to be too warm when walking!
Those considering doing it should be aware that the "optional"tour to Monument Valley is the only way you're going to see it and if you don't you'll be sitting in the van in a car park for 2 and a half hours waiting for everyone else! I guess it's presented as an option in case the tour is not available.
I'd also say that the guidelines re. meal prices need updating, they're just not realistic.
But overall, I'd highly recommend this trip and you'll be lucky if you have David as your leader.
Great tour. Ana was fantastic. The jungle lodges were excellent.
Suggest improvements:
Premium hotels need to be more central in the major cities. Location is more important than swimming pools. We missed out in Oaxaca especially.
You must include a stop in Puebla, especially as we drive right past it. I visited separately and it’s a great stop off.
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Merida, Mexico City, Palenque, F
Merida, Mexico City, Palenque, Flores, Tikal, San Ignacio, Belize City, Caye Caulker, Bacalar, Valladolid, Teotihuacan, Oaxaca, Tehuantepec, San Cristobal De Las Casas, Zinacantán
13% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
They say it’s the tour leader who makes or breaks a trip, and for me, this couldn’t be truer. Luis Flores brought this whirlwind adventure to life with his warmth, kindness, passion for his country, and enduring patience—all matched by his brilliant, boyish sense of humour, which was a bonus. Behind the company logo is a man of immense grace and generosity—a true superstar in countless subtle ways. He’s not just someone who leads you through a place but someone who helps you connect with its soul and its people.
This trip was a vibrant tapestry of breathtaking sights, iconic landmarks, and mouthwateringly delicious cuisine (with portions that were often humongous—wear stretchy trousers!). Add to that the genuine, heartwarming hospitality of the people we met, and it was an experience like no other.
The long, scenic drives became opportunities to daydream out the window, snooze in readiness for the next adventure (or “meditate,” as Luis fondly called these sleepy and quiet moments), or share conversations that added even more richness to the journey—or, occasionally, for me to ask, “Are we nearly there?”
Was it perfect? No. Could some things have been better? Yes, of course. But I came hoping for an authentic, enriching experience—and that’s precisely what I got.
If you’re considering this trip, come with an open mind and heart and be ready to let the magic unfold. Drink in the numerous sensorial moments of wonder. There are so many “wow, wow, wow” moments—turning a corner and seeing something genuinely magnificent alongside enchanting flora and fauna (sadly, no jaguars made an appearance). For me, this was a genuinely enriching and transformative journey.
In all honesty, I was hesitant to book after a really disappointing experience with an Explore guide earlier this year. It felt like a huge risk to trust you again, especially since this was a 2-week trip and tour leaders are beyond your control. But I’m so glad I did and am deeply grateful for the experience.
Everything about the trip was excellent. The hotels were very comfortable with superb food and service. The sights and venues were interesting with enough time a)lottery to see and enjoy them. The your director was great. She was creative in solving minor glitches. The driver was fantastic guiding the very comfortable but big bus through the narrow New England streets. The patrons were the most congenial group I have ever risen with. Top notch in every aspect.
Great tour itinerary with 2 x night accommodation at quality, well-located, hotels. Daily schedules included stops at highlights both en-route or at designated city stopovers, as well as sufficient “at leisure” time to explore independently. Our excellent Tour Director, provided insightful knowledge of destinations and recommendations throughout the tour. The coach transport was first-class as was our Driver. Availability of the on-board Wi-Fi and electronic device re-charging was particularly convenient. The Local Guides were engaging and professional.
I went on this holiday with my family. There were eleven of us, my daughter & her husband, my son & his wife and my 6 Grandchildren ages 8 to 13.
This was a perfect family adventure for us, lots of variety and Tarik was a brilliant, fun leader. The holiday exceeded our expectations. The other families on the trip were like minded people and we all got on very well.
The highlights were swimming with sharks for the children and climbing the magnificent Mayan temples for me.
Sarah Di Sio the booking agent was excellent.
I highly recommend this holiday.
Great trip. Full on pace, would have to skip activities to slow down! A cultural and nature trip. Guatemala was my favourite country; the Mayan history and culture. The archeological site at Copan adds to the diversity of experiences on this trip. As well the more recent history of regime change in Nicaragua. The Spanish colonial architecture was highlighted at all destinations, quaint hotels. Nature’s beauty and wild life was showcased throughout. Overall, a diversity of experiences filled the two weeks!
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge, Villa
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Panama City, Antigua, Rincon de
Panama City, Antigua, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Isla De Ometepe, Granada, Leon, San Salvador, Suchitoto, Panama Canal, Copán Ruinas, Boquete, Bocas Del Toro, Sarapiqui, Arenal, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
16% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
The tour departs from Fisherman's Wharf with a knowledgeable tour guide on board the bus. On the way out to Muir Woods, you will cross the iconic Golden Gate Bridge with breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island. Continue along the Pacific Coast Highway, providing stunning views of the coastal mountains before heading further to Muir Woods National Monument. Relax in your comfortable seat and enjoy the beautiful scenery while your tour guide shares fun and informative facts along the way.
Muir Woods is home to the Coast Redwoods, some of the tallest trees in the world, and it is the last remaining
stands of Old Growth Forest, sustained by the temperate marine fog. With maps in hand, take a walk through the spectacular woods and take in all of its natural beauty. There are a number of paved walking trails that take you close to the magnificent giants, or you can explore the area by using the unpaved walking trails leading up the hills. It may even feel like a movie scene because Muir Woods was also used as the film set for a few blockbusters, such as the “Rise of the Planet of the Apes”.
After exploring Muir Woods for about 1.5 hours at your leisure, we will head to charming Sausalito, a small
Mediterranean-style seaside town in Marin County, home to some of the country's wealthiest citizens. Sausalito is a gorgeous destination that offers boutique shopping, unique art galleries, parks, amazing food and breathtaking views of the bay.
If you wish to spend time in Sausalito, you can choose to hop off the tour and enjoy a ferry ride back to San
Francisco with beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco skyline and Alcatraz Island (ferry
tickets not included), or you can stay on board the tour and return back to San Francisco.
