Central America & the Caribbean Small Group Tours & Trip...

Central America & the Caribbean Small Group Tours & Trips

659 Central America & the Caribbean trips. Tours from 240 tour companies. 1,540 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

271 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Small Group Tour
Discover Belize
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate

Visits

Bar, Belize Barrier Reef, Blue Hole, Caribbean, Caye Caulker, Central America, Flores, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Houston, Placencia, San Ignacio, Tikal, Xunantunich

Highlights

  • Experience exotic wildlife, tropical forests, Mayan sites and white-sand beaches of Belize
  • Explore the impressive Mayan city of Tikal
  • Snorkel and swim over coral reefs in the Caribbean

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"This trip was a good mix of cycling through rural Spain and cultural visits to castles, monasteries, and sanctuaries. Most of the cycling was on cycle tracks or minor roads, with very little traffic. The few hills that we did encounter were not too strenuous! Alex was an excellent guide who shared all his knowledge of the regions history, culture, industry and importantly cuisine. The trip was well planned and organised. The hotels were of a good standard, clean and comfortable. The monastery in Caravaca de la Cruz was very peaceful. My favourite place was Caravaca de la Cruz. The town had a lot of history, combined with good bars and restaurants made it a perfect place to be based for 3 nights. The last day of cycling down the river valley from Cieza back to Murcia was a brilliant day’s ride. We followed the river through farmland, villages, and towns back to the city. The smell of orange blossom as we went through the orchards was amazing. The scenery in the morning was stunning and the riverside track into Murcia was the perfect end to the trip. I would recommend this trip."

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Cycle Costa Rica
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star

Visits

Arenal Volcano, Caribbean, Guanacaste, La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio National Park, San José, Tortuguero National Park

Highlights

  • Cycle through a volcanic landscape rich with nature and abundant wildlife
  • Explore the waterways of Tortuguero National Park
  • Discover the trails and tropical beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park

What travelers are saying

"This trip was a good mix of cycling through rural Spain and cultural visits to castles, monasteries, and sanctuaries. Most of the cycling was on cycle tracks or minor roads, with very little traffic. The few hills that we did encounter were not too strenuous! Alex was an excellent guide who shared all his knowledge of the regions history, culture, industry and importantly cuisine. The trip was well planned and organised. The hotels were of a good standard, clean and comfortable. The monastery in Caravaca de la Cruz was very peaceful. My favourite place was Caravaca de la Cruz. The town had a lot of history, combined with good bars and restaurants made it a perfect place to be based for 3 nights. The last day of cycling down the river valley from Cieza back to Murcia was a brilliant day’s ride. We followed the river through farmland, villages, and towns back to the city. The smell of orange blossom as we went through the orchards was amazing. The scenery in the morning was stunning and the riverside track into Murcia was the perfect end to the trip. I would recommend this trip."

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Land of Belize
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Caribbean, Caye Caulker, Central America, San Ignacio, Tikal, Tikal National Park

Highlights

  • Laze on the sandy shores of Caye Caulker off the coast of Belize. Swim in the warm waters of the Caribbean and snorkel through shallow reefs and atolls surrounding the cayes.
  • Join a group of local women at a co-operative in San Ignacio, where they’ll show you how to cook up some traditional recipes and talk about the organisation they founded.
  • Discover the remains of a once thriving Mayan city at the Lamanai Archaeological Site, reached by a boat trip that reveals some of Belize’s most colourful birdlife.
  • Take a day trip to the impressive Tikal National Park, just a hop, skip and a jump across the border into Guatemala. These Maya ruins have become one of the most important archaeological sites in Maya history.
  • Uncover the secrets of crystallised skeletons and crumbling palaces near San Ignacio that have been preserved in their natural glory.
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Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure
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4.3/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate

Visits

Caribbean, Central America, Corcovado National Park, La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde, Pacific Coast, Pacific Ocean, Tortuguero National Park

Highlights

  • Spot prolific wildlife including howler monkey, sloth and armadillos
  • Witness active volcanoes smouldering above dense rainforest
  • Go snorkelling in the Pacific Ocean and walk along the beaches of the Caribbean Sea

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"This trip was a good mix of cycling through rural Spain and cultural visits to castles, monasteries, and sanctuaries. Most of the cycling was on cycle tracks or minor roads, with very little traffic. The few hills that we did encounter were not too strenuous! Alex was an excellent guide who shared all his knowledge of the regions history, culture, industry and importantly cuisine. The trip was well planned and organised. The hotels were of a good standard, clean and comfortable. The monastery in Caravaca de la Cruz was very peaceful. My favourite place was Caravaca de la Cruz. The town had a lot of history, combined with good bars and restaurants made it a perfect place to be based for 3 nights. The last day of cycling down the river valley from Cieza back to Murcia was a brilliant day’s ride. We followed the river through farmland, villages, and towns back to the city. The smell of orange blossom as we went through the orchards was amazing. The scenery in the morning was stunning and the riverside track into Murcia was the perfect end to the trip. I would recommend this trip."

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Natural Highlights of Costa Rica
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4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Monteverde

Highlights

  • Visit multiple wildlife habitats in one week: verdant rainforest, lush mangroves, lava fields and serene cloud forests
  • Abundant wildlife viewing with sightings of monkeys, birds and sloths expected
  • Discover the tranquil waterways of Tortuguero, an important nesting site for green turtles
  • Comfortable ecofriendly lodges and hotels throughout
  • Two boat trips included at Tortuguero and a boat safari in the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
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Generous cancellation

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Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Caribbean

Highlights

  • Spend three nights in Drake Bay, the remote gateway to some of the premier wildlife destinations in Costa Rica
  • Explore Corcovado National Park, one of the biologically rich areas on the planet
  • Discover the wildlife and waterways of Tortuguero, an important nesting site for green turtles
  • Enjoy unrivalled wildlife viewing, including monkeys, sloths, dolphins and whales (in season)
  • Visit both the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines

Themes

50 plus, Birding, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

Trip dates & details
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Generous cancellation

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Costa Rica Wildlife Tour
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate

Visits

Caribbean, La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio National Park, Pacific Coast, Tortuguero National Park

Highlights

  • Discover incredible nature and wildlife on this two week adventure of Costa Rica
  • Explore jungle waterways, active volcanoes and unspoilt tropical rainforest
  • Spend time in the cloud forest and the 'mini amazon' of Tortuguero

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"This trip was a good mix of cycling through rural Spain and cultural visits to castles, monasteries, and sanctuaries. Most of the cycling was on cycle tracks or minor roads, with very little traffic. The few hills that we did encounter were not too strenuous! Alex was an excellent guide who shared all his knowledge of the regions history, culture, industry and importantly cuisine. The trip was well planned and organised. The hotels were of a good standard, clean and comfortable. The monastery in Caravaca de la Cruz was very peaceful. My favourite place was Caravaca de la Cruz. The town had a lot of history, combined with good bars and restaurants made it a perfect place to be based for 3 nights. The last day of cycling down the river valley from Cieza back to Murcia was a brilliant day’s ride. We followed the river through farmland, villages, and towns back to the city. The smell of orange blossom as we went through the orchards was amazing. The scenery in the morning was stunning and the riverside track into Murcia was the perfect end to the trip. I would recommend this trip."

Trip dates & details
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Cuba Libre!
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous

Visits

Bar, Camaguey, Caribbean, Havana, Santiago, Santo Domingo, Topes de Collantes, Trinidad, Vinales

Highlights

  • An in-depth exploration of Cuba, past and present
  • Discover faded colonial splendour, lush green countryside and white-sand beaches
  • Hear the sounds of salsa everywhere and immerse yourself in the country's nightlife

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"This trip was a good mix of cycling through rural Spain and cultural visits to castles, monasteries, and sanctuaries. Most of the cycling was on cycle tracks or minor roads, with very little traffic. The few hills that we did encounter were not too strenuous! Alex was an excellent guide who shared all his knowledge of the regions history, culture, industry and importantly cuisine. The trip was well planned and organised. The hotels were of a good standard, clean and comfortable. The monastery in Caravaca de la Cruz was very peaceful. My favourite place was Caravaca de la Cruz. The town had a lot of history, combined with good bars and restaurants made it a perfect place to be based for 3 nights. The last day of cycling down the river valley from Cieza back to Murcia was a brilliant day’s ride. We followed the river through farmland, villages, and towns back to the city. The smell of orange blossom as we went through the orchards was amazing. The scenery in the morning was stunning and the riverside track into Murcia was the perfect end to the trip. I would recommend this trip."

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271 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Small Group Tour

Central America & the Caribbean Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
1,540  Reviews
See all Central America & the Caribbean tour reviews
Excellent
1,076
Great
264
Average
18
Disappointing
5
Terrible
8
A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Discover costa rica

An excellent taster of the country. Well planned with good locations Meeting the owner michael Schnitzler of esquinas lodge. Such a wonderful work, he is passinate...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Discover Costa Rica

I would highly recommend this trip. The trip is very wildlife oriented, so if that is not your main interest, it may not be for you. However, I wouldn’t say that i...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

An great adventure in Costa Rica

This was our second Exodus trip and again, we were not disappointed. An itinerary which covered many different ecosystems, plenty of wildlife, pleasant travel comp...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

A great adventure in Costa Rica

This was our second Exodus trip and again, we were not disappointed. An itinerary which covered many different ecosystems, plenty of wildlife, pleasant travel comp...

A

Anonymous

Aug 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Discover Costa Rica

We had am amazing time on this trip from the moment we landed in San Jose. Our guide Andres kept us informed about what to expect, and bring for each activity. He...

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Central America & the Caribbean Tour Selection Trips

  • The Caribbean is much more than beautiful beaches. Each island has its own culture and languages include English, Spanish, French and Dutch.
  • Outside of Costa Rica and perhaps Belize and Panama, Central America is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty as well.
  • With some 7,000 islands in the Caribbean (many of them small) and nearly 30 island nations, it's best to pick cruises -- preferably small ship -- that visit a few at a time, or take a tour of one or two islands to get to know them in depth.
  • The biggest islands in the Caribbean -- and among the most popular -- are Hispaniola (shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti), Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. 
  • The Dominican Republic is best known for its beaches, but it also contains the Caribbean's highest mountain (Pico Duarte), which you can climb on a guided tour; is a top windsurfing destination; and offers hiking and mountain biking adventures. 
  • U.S. citizens can travel to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands without carrying passports (though it's always wise to get one). 
  • Bermuda is often thought of as a Caribbean Island, but actually it's hundreds of miles north in the Atlantic Ocean, and can be quite chilly in winter. 

Additional details

Safety Tips in Central America 

When people think about Central America, many associate the region with violence, drugs and gang related misconduct. While there are crimes that go on in this region, many areas are very well protected for any traveler to visit. That said, Central America guided tours to the region are a highly recommended way to travel if you’re worried about safety. Most countries, though are, in fact, very safe whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or a group of friends.

Panama, Cuba, Costa Rica, and Nicarargua are perhaps the safest (and generally more expensive) countries to travel to. Although there are some areas here and there where it is advised to not travel to, these countries are always seeing influxes of thousands of tourists every year looking to enjoy the wealth of wildlife, culture and food that is distinct than anywhere in the world. 

Other countries such as Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras are more on the cautionary side. When traveling to these countries especially, the capital city is always a little more dangerous.

Guatemala, for example, is safer in areas outside of cities such as Antigua and Atitlan. For transportation in Guatemala, it is advised to use only uber and not local taxis or buses. Walking alone at night is not advised, nor is showing off your phone or other valuables when you walk. 

It is helpful to speak to locals about it. Many are very friendly and it’s always good to know which areas are unsafe and should be avoided when traveling in Central America

What Countries are in Central America 

Central America, sitting in between Columbia and Mexico, is an incredibly vibrant and exciting travel destination filled with biodiversity, culture and a mecca for marine life. It has a population of more than 42 million people. The following are countries classified as being a part of Central America:

  1. Guatemala

  2. Costa Rica

  3. El Salvador

  4. Belize

  5. Honduras

  6. Nicaragua 

  7. Panama

Packing List for Central America Travel 

Depending on what time of the year that you go, the packing list for Central America tours can differ. In general, however, these are the top 6 essentials to carry when traveling to any of the 7 countries:

  1. Swimwear: whether you are traveling to Lake Atitlan or the San Blas islands, swimming in either the pacific or caribbean waters is something to not miss out on.

  1. Secure backpack: this is helpful when walking around the towns and especially in market places where pickpocketing is expected. Make sure to always pack refillable water bottles, your phone with a downloaded offline map, sunglasses, sunscreen, wallet, bug spray and more. 

  1. Sneakers: motorbiking, hiking or exploring on foot is a must in Central America. The best places are the hidden gems tucked away by cobble pathways in small towns, views atop mountains and hilly streets that criss cross next to beaches that has the best, local restaurants and stores.

  1. Travel insurance: Other than your visa, this is the next most important thing. 

  1. Cash: All the countries have different currencies from one another and having cash ready, especially if you plan to visit marketplaces, is extremely useful. Make sure to withdraw before you leave as getting cash in Central America itself can be more expensive. 

  1. Stomach medicine: don’t underestimate the power of a bad stomach, and the likelihood at that. Anything from fresh fruits, vegetables, ice, street food and altitude sickness can ruin the itineraries in a trip, so it’s wise to pack tums, tylenol and pepto-bismol before you leave. 

Weather in the Caribbean

Caribbean weather is mostly hot and sunny all around. 27 degrees celsius is the average while in the southern islands, temperatures can soar to 38 degrees. The wet seasons typically experience rain in bursts no more than an hour from May to October. Cold winds from the north happen sometimes but are infrequent and rare.

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