Volcanic eruptions, ancient Mayan heritage, the world’s second-largest barrier reef, and an abundance of wildlife – Central America truly has it all! Embark on our 40 day adventure through this natural wonderland, where you'll hike, snorkel, and indulge in the local food, plus some epic unique local experiences that will take you off the beaten path. From the lively streets of Mexico City to the palm-lined shores of the Yucatán Peninsula, one day you’ll be marvelling at towering volcanoes, and the next soaking up the sun and sea in beach towns. Oh, and did we mention you’ll be doing all this with an experienced group leader and an instant crew of new mates? The trip of a lifetime just got even better. The jungle awaits…
Local cultureHot springs
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Home-stay, Hotel
Age Range
18-55 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Mexico City, San Jose, Isla Holb
Mexico City, San Jose, Isla Holbox, Playa Del Carmen, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Bacalar, Caye Caulker, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Flores, Tikal, Coban, Semuc Champey, Chichicastenango, San Juan La Laguna, Antigua, Acatenango, La Fortuna, Oaxaca, Arenal, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Samara, Esterillos, Manuel Antonio National Park, Tehuantepec, San Cristobal De Las Casas, Cancún
Just finished my Costa Rica Trip and had the best time ever!! If you are considering it DO IT!!!
I’ve been on many many group tours and this was by far the best I have done to date! The group leader - Elmer, honestly made the trip and just went above and beyond in every possible way to ensure we were having a good time! Will definitely be booking another Intro trip soon as it was the best two weeks ever!
Hot springsWalking
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-55 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Esterillos, Manuel Ant
San Jose, Esterillos, Manuel Antonio National Park, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Samara
Volcanic eruptions, ancient Mayan heritage, the world’s second-largest barrier reef, and an abundance of wildlife – Central America truly has it all! Embark on our 30 day adventure through this natural wonderland, where you'll hike, snorkel, and indulge in the local food, plus some epic unique local experiences that will take you off the beaten path. One day you’ll be marvelling at towering volcanoes, and the next soaking up the sun and sea in beach towns. Oh, and did we mention you’ll be doing all this with an experienced group leader and an instant crew of new mates? The trip of a lifetime just got even better. The jungle awaits…
Hot springsNational parks
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Home-stay, Hotel
Age Range
18-55 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Playa Del Carmen, Coba
San Jose, Playa Del Carmen, Coban, Semuc Champey, Lake Atitlan, San Juan La Laguna, Antigua, Acatenango, La Fortuna, Chichen Itza, Arenal Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Samara, Esterillos, Manuel Antonio National Park, Tulum, Bacalar, Caye Caulker, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Flores, Tikal
We get it, choosing the right itinerary for a country as diverse as Colombia is tough. But we’ve got you covered with this 17-day whirlwind adventure that ticks all the boxes. From coastal Cartagena to vibrant Bogotá, explore the best of both worlds: iconic highlights and hidden gems. Trek the jungle trails of Tayrona National Park, dive into waterfall plunge pools in Minca, soak in the chill vibes of Palomino, and uncover the lesser-known hot springs of Santa Rosa de Cabal. With adventures at every turn and plenty of time to soak in the culture, you’ll come home with stories — and a deeper connection to Colombia — that’ll last a lifetime.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hostel, Hotel, Villa
Age Range
18-39 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin, Gua
Bogota, Cartagena, Medellin, Guatapé, Santa Rosa De Cabal, Salento, Minca, Palomino, Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta
I would definitely recommend this trip for those who are seeking adventure! Each day we say different cities and sites (Huacachina Desert, Nazca Lines, Arequipa, Puno/Lake Titicaca, Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain), which are totally the experiences. The only downsides of the trip were the overnight bus due to its discomfort of trying to rest as well as the bumpy roads whenever I had to use the toilet on the bus. Also, make sure to bring enough medical supplements with you and buy enough coca supplements (mints, candies, leaves, tea) to adjust to the altitude or any higher elevations! I did get some headaches and dizziness, but that's kinda normal and to be expected.
Wanna explore Peru beyond just the Inca Trail? Over 6 mesmerising days, you’ll witness Peru’s most underrated wonders. Travelling in a comfy 1st class coach from Lima to Huaraz (and back again), you’ll hike up one of South America’s last remaining tropical glaciers, explore clear blue lagoons. And even check out the mystical temples of Chavin de Huantar. Get ready for rewarding hikes & oh-so-incredible views!
I just returned from an incredible trip to Argentina and Brazil with Contiki, and I can’t recommend it enough! The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, from the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires to the stunning landscapes of Rio de Janeiro. Every activity was amazing, whether we were exploring the iconic landmarks or enjoying exhilarating adventures.
The food was a highlight, with delicious local dishes that truly showcased the culture. The blend of rich traditions and friendly locals made the experience even more special. I made some great friends along the way, and our tour guide was fantastic—knowledgeable, engaging, and always ready to ensure we had the best time possible.
Overall, this trip was an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, culture, and great company. If you’re looking for a memorable travel experience, I highly recommend traveling with Contiki!
City sightseeingLocal culture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu National Park
Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu National Park
Take an adventure in diverse South America on this 25-day trip from La Paz to Rio de Janeiro. See amazing natural wonders, walk the streets of busy cities and meet the charming locals with a leader by your side who knows all the best spots. Tour the city of Colonia del Sacramento, discover why Salta is nicknamed ‘La Linda’ (‘the beautiful’) and tick immersive Buenos Aires off your bucket list with your new group of friends. Witness the magic of the Iguazu Falls, journey through the untamed desert scenery of San Pedro de Atacama and see the otherworldly Salar de Uyuni salt flats. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore each location, and all the logistics are taken care of for you, so you can concentrate on making new connections and discovering new places.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rio de Janeiro, La Paz, Buenos A
Rio de Janeiro, La Paz, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Estancia, Iguazu Falls, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Uyuni, Salar De Uyuni, San Pedro De Atacama, Salta
13% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Experience the full spectrum of South America on this epic 39-day adventure – the perfect way to forge lifelong connections. Follow in the footsteps of ancient people on the Inca Trail in Peru, drive past volcanoes, lakes, llamas and flamingos in the Atacama Desert and marvel at the might of Iguazu Falls. Spend nights on an estancia (farm) in Uruguay and at a homestay on Lake Titicaca, sample Argentinian barbecue in Buenos Aires and roam through the Amazon jungle. With like-minded travel companions and a local leader providing recommendations at every stop, this’ll be a South American expedition like no other.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Camping, Home-stay, Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Cusco, Pun
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Cusco, Puno, Amantani, La Paz, Uyuni, Salar De Uyuni, San Pedro De Atacama, Amazon Jungle, Salta, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Estancia, Iguazu Falls, Paraty, Iguazu Falls, Ilha Grande, Ollantaytambo, Inca Trail
Embark on a South American escapade from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro on this 14-day adventure. Soak up the might of Argentina before crossing to the charming city of Colonia del Sacramento, then explore the lively Mercado del Puerto in Montevideo. Spend two nights getting to know the locals on an estancia (farm) in Uruguay, either chipping in with the chores or relaxing in the sun, then marvel at the majesty of Iguazu Falls. Finishing off in the paradise of Ilha Grande and the buzz of Rio de Janeiro, you’ll experience the many sides of South America.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Pa
Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Montevideo, Estancia, Iguazu Falls
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
This was my 5th Contiki and it was another unforgettable experience. The trip manager () was excellent, a true expert in all things South American. My only constructive comment is linked to the number of days spent in Buenos Aires. The add ons and city were disappointing compared to the rest of the trip. I can't believe we spent so long there. I would have much rather spend more time in the Amazon or in Rio.
Beach
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Home-stay
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Cusco, Jun
Rio de Janeiro, Lima, Cusco, Jungle Lodge, Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes
Initially before booking the trip I thought it was extremely overpriced.
However(our tour guide) was fantastic. He made the trip worth every penny and was extremely organised and knowledgeable. The locations were great, and the activities were really cool.
was a fantastic character, and became a friend by ensuring we all had fun. He looked after and catered for everyone’s needs and requirements, promoting safety above all else, and more than once went the extra mile to ensure we all had a great time (joining myself at CrossFit and his traditional dance moves were personal highlights).
I hope he gets the recognition he deserves, as I would love to book a similar trip with Contiki in future because of this great experience.
I would also recommend that you include huacachina in future - I went there on my own and it was one of the coolest experiences - maybe this could be added as an extra at the beginning of the trip.
