Mexico and Central America Tour: 14 Days in 5 Countries
Tour Detail
1. DAY: ISTANBUL - MEXICO CITY
Our tour begins at Istanbul Airport at 18:00. After completing passport and luggage procedures, we depart for Mexico City on Turkish Airlines flight TK181, scheduled for 22:00. Our flight will take approximately 14 hours and 50 minutes, during which we experience the excitement of traveling through the mesmerizing nature and history of Latin America.
- Overnight on the plane.
2. DAY: ARRIVAL IN MEXICO CITY & CITY TOUR
We arrive at Mexico City International Airport at 03:50 local time. After completing passport procedures, we are met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel in a private vehicle. Since we arrive early in the morning, hotel check-in may not be immediate; it depends on availability, and early check-in is subject to space.
After a short rest, we have breakfast at the hotel and then begin exploring Mexico City. As one of the largest and most important cities in Latin America, Mexico City offers an unforgettable experience with its historical heritage, modern buildings, and colorful culture.
Our first stop on the city tour is the heart of the historic center, Zócalo Square. Here, we visit the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the Aztec Templo Mayor ruins. At the National Palace, we have the opportunity to see stunning wall frescos by the famous Mexican artist Diego Rivera.
Next, we walk along Paseo de la Reforma to Chapultepec Park, one of the largest city parks in the world, which also houses Chapultepec Castle and the Museum of Anthropology. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring famous Mexican dishes such as tacos and enchiladas.
After lunch, we explore the San Juan Market area, where we can buy Mexican souvenirs, handicrafts, and spices. Then, we take a brief walk through the bohemian neighborhoods of La Condesa and Roma Norte to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
At the end of the day, we return to the hotel, check-in, and settle into our rooms for rest. Guests have free time for dinner; they can explore Mexico City’s famous nightlife or enjoy a traditional dinner accompanied by Mariachi music.
- Overnight at NH Collection Mexico City Centro Histórico 4-star hotel in Mexico City.
3. DAY: MEXICO CITY & TEOTIHUACAN PYRAMIDS TOUR (LUNCH INCLUDED)
Today, we stay in Mexico City and explore surrounding areas, gaining deeper insight into Mexico’s history and culture. After breakfast at the hotel, we head to Teotihuacan Pyramids, one of Mexico’s most famous archaeological sites.
After about an hour’s drive, we arrive at UNESCO World Heritage-listed Teotihuacan Archaeological Site. Known as the “City of the Gods,” this ancient city predates the Aztecs and was home to the Teotihuacan civilization. We climb the Sun Pyramid and Moon Pyramid to enjoy spectacular views, walk along the Avenue of the Dead, and explore the Templo Mayor. Our guide shares information about this mystical city and its fascinating details of ancient Mexican culture.
Later, we have lunch at a local restaurant enjoying traditional Mexican flavors. Afterward, we visit a tequila workshop to learn how tequila is produced and sample various types of this famous Mexican spirit.
Post tequila tour, we return to Mexico City and head to Coyoacán and Xochimilco. In Coyoacán, an area famous for being home to artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, we visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul) to see her personal belongings and artworks.
Next, we go to Xochimilco, famous for its colorful boat rides called Trajineras. This region, with its Aztec-era canals, offers a lively and scenic experience. During the boat tour, we enjoy lively Mariachi music, creating a festive atmosphere.
At the end of the day, we return to our hotel, settle in for rest, and have free evening time, where guests can enjoy local restaurants or entertainment venues in Mexico City.
- Overnight at NH Collection Mexico City Centro Histórico 4-star hotel in Mexico City.
4. DAY: MEXICO CITY – SAN SALVADOR (EL SALVADOR) FLIGHT & CITY TOUR
After breakfast, we transfer from the hotel to Mexico City Airport and board our flight with Avianca Airlines at 16:50 to San Salvador. The flight lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, arriving in San Salvador at 19:00 local time.
Upon arrival, we are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. After check-in, we have time for rest and leisure.
- Overnight at Barceló San Salvador 4-star hotel in San Salvador.
5. DAY: SAN SALVADOR & SURROUNDING AREA EXCURSIONS (LUNCH INCLUDED)
Today, we explore the historical and natural beauties of San Salvador. After breakfast, we start with a tour of the city’s historic center, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, National Theater, and Divina Providencia Chapel.
Next, we visit the San Andrés Archaeological Site to discover this ancient Mayan settlement and its temples and ruins, learning about Maya civilization history.
We then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, tasting El Salvador’s culinary specialties. In the afternoon, we head to Costa del Sol beach, one of the country's most famous and beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing by the sea, taking photos, or enjoying drinks at the seaside.
At the end of the day, we return to the hotel for rest.
- Overnight at Barceló San Salvador.
6. DAY: SAN SALVADOR – GUATEMALA CITY FLIGHT & ANTIGUA TRANSFER
After breakfast, we check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for our flight to Guatemala City with Avianca Airlines at 08:30. The short flight takes about 50 minutes, arriving at 09:20.
Upon arrival, our private vehicle transfers us on a scenic 1.5-hour journey to Antigua.
Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates with its colonial architecture. We explore with a walking tour visiting Plaza Mayor, Antigua Cathedral, Santa Catalina Arch, and La Merced Church.
Finally, we transfer to our hotel to rest and settle into our rooms.
- Overnight at Porta Hotel Antigua 4-star hotel in Antigua.
7. DAY: ANTIGUA & SURROUNDINGS (LUNCH INCLUDED)
Today, we explore Antigua’s colonial charm and its surroundings on a full-day tour. After breakfast, our guide takes us to discover natural and cultural attractions around Antigua.
Our first stop is Pacaya Volcano, an active volcano about an hour and a half from Antigua. We will hike up to enjoy magnificent views and observe volcanic rocks, lava fields, and steam vents, feeling nature’s power up close.
After returning to Antigua, we have lunch at a local restaurant. Post-lunch, we visit a coffee plantation to learn about Guatemalan coffee production and enjoy tastings of the region’s renowned coffee.
Next, we visit Hobbitenango, a unique outdoor park with hobbit-style houses nestled in lush greenery. Visitors can take photos on swinging platforms, enjoy short walks, or relax with beautiful mountain views.
In the evening, we return to the hotel to rest and settle into our rooms.
- Overnight at Porta Hotel Antigua.
8. DAY: ANTIGUA - GUATEMALA CITY - SAN JOSE (COSTA RICA)
After breakfast, we depart Antigua for Guatemala City Airport. We transfer, complete passport and luggage procedures, and fly to San Jose, Costa Rica, with Avianca at 21:25. The flight lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, arriving at 22:55.
Upon arrival, we are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel for check-in and rest.
- Overnight at Gran Hotel Costa Rica 4-star hotel in San Jose.
9. DAY: SAN JOSE CITY TOUR & NATIONAL MUSEUM (LUNCH & DINNER INCLUDED)
After breakfast, we explore Costa Rica’s capital city with a full-day tour. Our first stop is the historic city center, where we see the National Theatre, Plaza de la Cultura, Central Market, and San Jose Cathedral.
Next, we visit the Museo Nacional de Costa Rica, which houses key collections about Costa Rican history and culture, including pre-Columbian artifacts, Spanish colonial items, and displays about the country’s biodiversity.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we walk through Barrio Amón, known for its colorful colonial houses and art galleries.
In the evening, we enjoy Costa Rican cuisine at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for rest.
- Overnight at Gran Hotel Costa Rica.
10. DAY: FREE TIME & ENJOYING SAN JOSE
After a leisurely breakfast, the morning is free for guests to explore San Jose’s boutique shops, cafes, or enjoy a walk around the city.
The evening is free for individual activities.
- Overnight at Gran Hotel Costa Rica.
11. DAY: SAN JOSE – PANAMA CITY ARRIVAL & CITY TOUR
Early morning, we transfer to San Jose Airport for our flight to Panama City with Avianca at 10:15. The flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, arriving at 12:35.
Upon arrival, we begin our city tour, starting with Casco Viejo, Panama’s historic district listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring colonial architecture, landmarks like San José Church, Plaza Mayor, Bolívar Square, and the Presidential Palace.
Next, we see the modern downtown, including the Punta Paitilla skyline.
For lunch, we stop at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we visit Amador Causeway, a scenic area with artificial islands offering magnificent views of the Panama Canal and the Pacific Ocean, with time for shopping.
We return to the hotel to rest, and the evening is at leisure.
- Overnight at Hilton Panama 4-star hotel.
12. DAY: PANAMA CANAL & MIRAFLORES VISIT & TABOGA ISLAND TOUR
After breakfast, we visit key attractions of Panama.
Our first stop is the Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks, where we observe ships passing between oceans and learn about its history at the Panama Canal Museum.
Next, we take a boat trip to Taboga Island, known as the “Flower Island.” With its stunning beaches, clear waters, and lush scenery, it’s a perfect tropical retreat. We relax on the beach, swim, or explore the small colonial village, enjoying a seaside lunch.
In the late afternoon, we return to Panama City and rest at the hotel; evening at leisure.
- Overnight at Hilton Panama.
13. DAY: FREE TIME IN PANAMA CITY & RETURN TO ISTANBUL
After breakfast, guests have time until their flight, allowing for last-minute shopping, seaside walks, or enjoying cafes. We transfer to the airport at the designated time for our flight back home.
14. DAY: ARRIVAL IN ISTANBUL
After approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes, we arrive at Istanbul Airport at 15:35 local time. After completing passport and luggage procedures, our tour concludes.
What to bring with you?
Take your passport, reservation document, and phone charger with you.
For this route where you will transition between different cities and climates, pack layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a light raincoat. Prepare a small bag, hat, and sunglasses for daily excursions.
What's Included
✔ International round-trip flights with Turkish Airlines
✔ Regional domestic flights with Avianca Airlines
✔ Accommodation in 4-star hotels with breakfast at the designated cities
✔ All specified tours and activities in the program
✔ All airport transfers and city transportation
✔ Turkish-speaking guide service (with guide from Istanbul)
✔ Entrance fees for museums, archaeological sites, and national parks
✔ Travel mandatory insurance
Not Included
❌ Personal expenses and exit fee TR
❌ Beverages consumed during lunch and dinner
❌ Tips (for local guides, drivers, and restaurant service, $150 per person)