18-35 Travel
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Mexico

Epic Mexico to Costa Rica

Playa del Carmen → San Jose 32 days Up to 16

About this trip

This 32-day overland adventure runs from Playa del Carmen in Mexico down through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and into Costa Rica, taking in cloud forests, volcanoes and Maya ruins along the way.

You will move through a real mix of landscapes and cultures, from colourful colonial towns to jungle and rainforest, with plenty of chances to practise your Spanish, haggle in local markets and get to know fellow travellers as you go.

It is a group trip with a fully guided structure, built around covering a lot of ground, so expect long travel days by private and local transport between the highlights.

What you'll do

  • Wander the colourful streets of San Miguel
  • Trek to the jungle ruins of Tikal
  • Haggle in the markets of Chichicastenango
  • Relax in the Caribbean town on the Rio Dulce
  • Explore the cobblestone streets of Antigua
  • Head into rainforest and jungle for wildlife encounters
Good to know
  • Long days of travel by private and local transport, with several border crossings that can involve waiting around
  • Optional volcano hikes need a moderate fitness level and proper walking shoes, though easier alternatives are available
  • Costa Rica tends to be pricier than the other countries on this route, and air conditioning is not always included in accommodation
Tour dupe
Same trip, less money
£937 less all-in
Viva Mexico: Ancient Ruins & the Mayan Riviera
5from £99914 days
The trade-off: 18 fewer nights, and a different operator.
See the dupe
How it compares

The same-vibe trips, side by side — price, value per day, and how each is moving. Only we can lay two operators' trips out honestly.

Sorted by fit — never by who paid. Price moves and availability come from our own daily tracking.

Best month to go

Departing in Sep is cheapest — from £1,790, about 40% below the priciest month (Aug).

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Getting there

Playa del Carmen
One-way · arrive 21 Sept 26

Opens Trip.com, pre-filled — one-way so you can book your return whenever. Prices & booking shown there.

Where to stay

A night before your tour in Playa del Carmen · 21 Sept22 Sept

Booked on their own sites, separate from your tour. We may earn a commission — it never changes your price.

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