4 week travel itinerary for Central America

🇲🇽 WEEKS 1 & 2: MEXICO

Days 1-4: Mexico City (History, Culture & Food)

Arrival: Fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX)—a major international hub. Once you land, skip the taxi line and order an Uber for about £10 to the historic center, or take the Metrobus Line 4 for just £1 if you're packing light.

Where to Stay

• Budget – Selina Mexico City Downtown

  • ~£15/night

  • A vibrant hostel with stylish dorms, private rooms, a co-working space, and a rooftop bar. It’s perfect for digital nomads or solo travellers looking to meet people. Free morning yoga is a plus!

• Mid-Range – Casa Pepe Boutique Hostel

  • ~£50/night

  • A hybrid between boutique hotel and high-end hostel. Beautifully decorated with local art, comfy beds, private bathrooms, and the best free breakfast (chilaquiles or tamales with fresh juice). They also host mezcal tastings, walking tours, and live music.

Pro Tip: Stay near Centro Histórico, Roma Norte, or Condesa for walkability, good food, and safety.

Where to Eat – This city is a foodie's dream

El Huequito (Multiple Locations)

• Famous for their tacos al pastor—sliced off a rotating spit, topped with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Grab 3 tacos, a cold agua de horchata, and you’re golden.

Mercado de San Juan

• A food market like no other. You’ll find:

  • Local delicacies like mole poblano, tlayudas, and quesadillas flor de calabaza.

  • Adventurous eats like fried tarantulas, scorpion tacos, or crocodile meat (if you're feeling brave).

🍽Other Must-Try Spots:

• Taquería Orinoco (Roma Norte) – Trendy tacos with gringa-style pastor and killer salsas.

• Contramar (Condesa) – A seafood institution; order the tuna tostada and pescado a la talla.

• Panadería Rosetta – Best guava danish and coffee to start your mornings in Roma.

Top Activities & Experiences

Centro Histórico (Historic Downtown)

• Zócalo – One of the largest public squares in the world, surrounded by colonial architecture.

• Palacio Nacional – Home to Diego Rivera’s murals and the seat of Mexico’s federal government.

• Palacio de Bellas Artes – Jaw-dropping marble palace for art lovers. Catch a ballet folklórico show if you can.

Teotihuacán Pyramids (Day Trip)

• Take a day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site—about 1 hour away.

• Climb the Pyramid of the Sun (238 steps!) and the Pyramid of the Moon.

• Bonus: Book a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the pyramids (~£150) for breathtaking views.

Frida Kahlo Museum & Coyoacán

• Located in the leafy, bohemian Coyoacán neighbourhood, Casa Azul is where Frida lived and painted. Buy tickets online in advance, it sells out.

• Spend the afternoon wandering cobblestone streets, eating churros, and sipping coffee in plazas surrounded by coloUrful colonial houses.

Lucha Libre at Arena México

• Wild, theatrical, and SO much fun. Sit near the ring for the full experience.

• Tip: Buy tickets ahead at Ticketmaster or show up early. Grab a £5 luchador mask and cheer for your favorite técnico or rudo.

Packing & Travel Tips

• Altitude: CDMX is over 7,000 feet high—stay hydrated and take it easy the first day.

• Getting Around: Use Uber, Didi, or take the Metro (cheap and efficient). Avoid rush hours if possible.

• Safety: Stick to well-trafficked areas, especially at night. Avoid tap water—drink bottled.

Next Stop: Oaxaca

Night Bus to Oaxaca

• Operator: ADO or ADO GL

• Duration: ~8 hours

• Cost: ~£40

• Book online or at the TAPO bus station. Reclining seats, AC, and charging ports make for a surprisingly comfy ride.

• Tip: Pack earplugs and a hoodie—Mexican buses are freezing.

Days 5-7: Oaxaca (Culture, Mezcal & Markets)

After the buzz of Mexico City, Oaxaca feels like a colourful, slow-paced dream. This highland city is famous for its indigenous roots, vibrant markets, colonial streets, and of course—mezcal.

Where to Stay

Budget – Iguana Hostel

• 💰 ~£12/night

• Super social with a backpacker vibe—great for solo travellers. Hammocks, a rooftop terrace, and communal dinners make it easy to meet people. Walking distance to Santo Domingo Church and downtown.

Mid-Range – Azul Cielo Hostel & Boutique

• 💰 ~£40/night

• Gorgeous boho decor, leafy courtyard, and spacious private rooms. A quiet oasis just a short walk from the centre. Bonus: the free breakfast (with fresh fruit, eggs, and local coffee) is chef’s kiss.

Where to Eat – Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s culinary capitals

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

• A foodie heaven filled with local vendors. Must-tries:

  • Tlayudas – giant crispy tortillas topped with refried beans, cheese, lettuce, and tasajo (thin beef).

  • Empanadas de amarillo – cheesy, spicy goodness in a fresh corn tortilla.

  • Don't miss the “Pasillo de Humo” (Smoke Alley), where they grill meat on the spot.

La Biznaga

• Modern Oaxacan fusion in a stylish courtyard.

  • Try their queso de cabra en salsa de chapulines (goat cheese in grasshopper sauce) or chile relleno de plátano macho.

  • Amazing mezcal cocktails too.

Other Great Eats

• Itanoní – Famous for traditional corn-based dishes.

• Boulenc – A hip bakery/café with wood-fired sandwiches and fresh pastries.

• Tierra del Sol – Elegant rooftop dining with a focus on Mixtec cuisine.

Top Activities & Day Trips

Monte Albán Ruins

• Just 20 minutes from the city, this ancient Zapotec capital sits atop a hill with panoramic views over the valleys.

• Entry: ~£5.

• Tip: Go early (before 10 AM) to beat the crowds and heat. Take a guide or download an audio tour app for full context.

Hierve el Agua

• Natural mineral springs + petrified waterfalls + epic mountain views = a surreal experience.

• Hike the loop trail (~1 hour) or take a dip in the infinity pools.

• Transport: ~£10 via colectivo or day tour. Bring water shoes!

Mezcal Tasting Tour

• Oaxaca is the place to learn about mezcal—made from dozens of agave types.

• Join a guided tasting or take a full-day tour to visit palenques (mezcal distilleries) in the nearby villages like Matatlán.

• Cost: ~£20–40, depending on tour length.

• Must-Try: Tobala, Espadín, and the wild Tepeztate.

Culture & Craft

• Visit Textile museums or the Rufino Tamayo Museum for folk art.

• Check out artisan villages like Teotitlán del Valle (weaving) and San Bartolo Coyotepec (black pottery).

• Take a cooking class to learn how to make mole, memelas, and tamales from scratch.

Next Stop: San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas

Night Bus to Chiapas (ADO or OCC)

• Duration: ~12 hours

• Cost: ~£50

• Reclining seats, AC, and blankets provided.

• Pro Tip: Pack snacks, layers (buses can be chilly!), and download something to watch.

Days 8-10: Chiapas (San Cristóbal & Palenque)

After Oaxaca, head southeast into the lush highlands of Chiapas. This region blends indigenous culture, stunning landscapes, and ancient Mayan history.

Where to Stay

Budget – Hostal La Isla

• ~$10 USD/night

• A peaceful, artsy hostel right in the heart of San Cristóbal. Colorful common spaces, a little garden, and a super warm vibe. Great for solo travelers and anyone needing a chill spot.

Mid-Range – Casa Lum

• ~$50 USD/night

• Gorgeous boutique hotel with sustainable design, cozy rooms, and an on-site organic restaurant. Close to the main walking street but tucked away enough for quiet evenings.

Where to Eat

El Caldero

• Local favorite for traditional soups like sopa de chipilín (made with a native

  green herb) and sopa de pan (a Chiapas specialty with plantains and bread).

  Inexpensive and super flavorful.

Tierra Adentro

• Hip café with a social mission, serving great coffee, vegetarian dishes,

  and lots of regional ingredients. Try the huevos motuleños or quesadillas

  de huitlacoche.

Other Suggestions:

• La Lupe – For tacos & quesadillas with homemade salsas.

• Carajillo Café – Perfect for a caffeine boost and pastry.

Top Activities

Walk the Colonial Streets of San Cristóbal

• Wander down Real de Guadalupe and Andador Eclesiástico, lined with artisan shops, cafés, and street performers.

• Visit Santo Domingo Church and the Textile Museum of the Highlands for insight into local Maya traditions.

Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour – ~£20

• Take a lancha (small motorboat) through this dramatic canyon with 1,000-metre high cliffs.

• Spot crocodiles, monkeys, and birdlife. Bonus: the "Christmas Tree" waterfall is surreal.

Day Trip to Palenque Ruins – ~£40

• Long day but totally worth it. The jungle-covered Mayan ruins of Palenque are wild, mystical, and way less crowded than Chichén Itzá.

• Combine with visits to nearby waterfalls like Misol-Ha or Agua Azul.

Next Stop: Mérida, Yucatán

Night Bus to Mérida

• Duration: ~12 hours

• Cost: ~£50

• Book with ADO for the most comfortable overnight ride (bring a hoodie—it gets cold on board!).

• Arrive refreshed and ready to explore the cultural capital of the Yucatán.

Days 11-14: Yucatán (Mérida, Valladolid & Tulum)

After soaking in Chiapas, make your way to the sun-drenched Yucatán for a mix of ancient ruins, cenote swims, and beachside bliss.

Where to Stay

Mérida – Nomadas Hostel

• ~£12/night

• Lush courtyard, hammocks, and one of the best hostel pools in Mexico.

  Free salsa classes and super social vibe make this a backpacker favourite.

Valladolid – Hostal Candelaria

• ~£10/night

• Chill garden setting with colourful hammocks and a relaxed pace. Ideal base

  for exploring nearby cenotes and Chichén Itzá.

Tulum – Che Hostel

• ~£15/night

• Trendy hostel with a rooftop bar, daily activities, and a great social atmosphere.

  Perfect for solo travellers and party-friendly vibes.

Where to Eat

Mérida – Wayan’e
Don’t miss their cochinita pibil tacos—slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus. Local, delicious, and cheap.

Valladolid – El Mesón del Marqués
A colonial courtyard restaurant serving regional Yucatán dishes like relleno negro and lomitos de Valladolid. Great for a sit-down meal with ambiance.

Top Activities

Chichén Itzá – ~£30
One of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Go early to beat the crowds and heat. Combine it with a cenote visit nearby.

Cenote Swims (Can’t-Miss!)

• Ik-Kil – Near Chichén Itzá, famous for its jungle vibes.

• Suytun – Instagram-famous for its stone platform and light beams.

• Dos Ojos – In Tulum, perfect for snorkelling and cave swimming.

Tulum Ruins & Playa Paraíso
Explore seaside Mayan ruins with dramatic cliff views, then walk down to one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. Rent a bike for the day and cruise the coast.

Next Stop: Guatemala

Fly to Guatemala City (or Flores)

• Cost: ~£100

• Flight Time: ~1.5 hours

• Carriers: Aeroméxico, Volaris, TAG Airlines
  Tip: Fly into Flores if your next stop is Tikal—you’ll save a lot of travel time.

🇬🇹 WEEK 3: GUATEMALA

(📍 Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal)

Days 15-16: Antigua (Volcanoes & Colonial Charm)

Nestled in a valley surrounded by three volcanoes—Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango—Antigua is a dreamy UNESCO World Heritage city with pastel facades, Spanish Baroque architecture, vibrant street life, and an addictive mix of history and adventure.

Whether you’re sipping coffee in a sunlit courtyard, hiking above the clouds, or hunting for the perfect jade souvenir, Antigua is an unforgettable stop in any Central America trip.

Where to Stay

Budget: Tropicana Hostel – ~£12–18/night
The ultimate social backpacker hub. Lively rooftop bar, small pool,

volcano tour desk, and tons of other solo travellers to link up with. Great base

if you’re planning to hike Acatenango!

Budget+: Maya Papaya Hostel – ~£15/night
Trendy, quiet, and super clean with arguably the best hostel breakfast in

Guatemala (think homemade pancakes, eggs, and fresh fruit). Great for digital

nomads or travelers wanting a calmer vibe.

Mid-Range: Hotel Casa Santo Domingo – ~£80/night
Housed in a 16th-century convent, this stunning boutique hotel features a museum,

spa, candle-lit halls, and lush gardens. Perfect for couples or a splurge night.

Where to Eat

Rincon Típico
A true local gem. Wooden tables, open grill, and enormous Guatemalan plates for just a few bucks. Try the roasted chicken or pepián with handmade tortillas.

Café Sky
Chill rooftop vibes with sweeping volcano views. Great for a sunset drink or brunch. Their mojitos and huevos rancheros are fan favorites.

Ta'Cool
Trendy taco spot with a twist—fusion flavors, craft cocktails, and a cool garden patio.

Fernando’s Kaffee
Delicious coffee roasted in-house, homemade chocolates, and hearty breakfasts. Don’t skip the banana pancakes.

Top Activities

1. Hike Acatenango Volcano – ~£80 (overnight trek)
The ultimate adventure in Guatemala. Hike through cloud forests, set up camp above the clouds, and watch Volcán de Fuego erupt in real time across the valley. Most treks leave from Tropicana or local operators like OX Expeditions or Wicho & Charlie’s. Challenging but 100% worth it.

2. Explore Antigua’s Colonial Heart

• Snap the iconic photo at the Santa Catalina Arch with Volcán de Agua looming behind.

• Visit Iglesia de La Merced, known for its ornate yellow façade.

• Wander through the Ruins of San Francisco Church and Capuchinas Convent—spooky and romantic.

3. Shop for Local Handicrafts
Head to the Artisan Market for colourful textiles, leather bags, jade jewellery, and quirky souvenirs. Don’t be afraid to haggle!

4. Coffee & Chocolate Tours
Take a tour of a local coffee finca or learn how to make chocolate from bean to bar—Antigua is famous for both.

Getting to Lake Atitlán

• Shuttle time: ~3 hours

• Cost: ~£20

• Book through: Tropicana, Maya Papaya, or any travel agency in town.

Pro Tip: Decide your base town ahead of time:

• San Pedro – Budget-friendly, party vibes, and Spanish schools.

• San Marcos – Chill, spiritual, yoga haven.

• Panajachel – Most developed, good transport hub.

Days 17-18: Lake Atitlán (Nature & Relaxation)

Lake Atitlán is a sparkling blue crater lake surrounded by three majestic volcanoes—San Pedro, Atitlán, and Tolimán. Each village along the lakeshore has its own vibe: from spiritual San Marcos to party-ready San Pedro, or tranquil Santa Cruz. Whether you're in for yoga, hiking, kayaking, or simply sipping a cocktail by the water, this spot is pure magic.

Where to Stay

San Pedro: Mr. Mullet’s Hostel – ~£12/night
Fun, social, and full of energy. Great for backpackers who want a lively atmosphere, lake access, themed nights, and organized tours.

Santa Cruz: Free Cerveza – ~£20/night
Unique lakeside glamping experience. Stay in tents or domes, enjoy communal vegetarian dinners, and relax in hammocks by the water. Free beer during happy hour, eco vibes, and unbeatable sunset views.

Where to Eat

Sababa Restaurant (San Pedro)
Trendy rooftop café with Middle Eastern and Guatemalan fusion. Incredible views, shakshuka, and smoothie bowls.

The Fifth Dimension (San Marcos)
A hidden vegan/vegetarian gem. Peaceful setting, great for brunch or a post-yoga snack.

Café Sabor Cruceno (Santa Cruz)
Community-run restaurant with delicious Guatemalan food, located above the village with an epic panoramic view. Try the pepián (traditional stew) or their fresh tamales.

Idea Connection (San Pedro)
Local Italian café/bookstore hybrid with cozy vibes and amazing pizza. Great spot to chill with a book or journal your travels.

Top Things to Do

Kayak on Lake Atitlán – ~£10/day
Rent a kayak from Santa Cruz or San Marcos and explore the lake’s turquoise waters. Paddle to hidden coves or beach yourself at a remote dock for a swim.

Hike Indian Nose for Sunrise – ~£15 (with guide)
Depart at 4 AM to catch sunrise from one of the best viewpoints in Central America. Views stretch from the lake to the distant volcanoes of Antigua on a clear day.

Village Hopping by Lancha (Water Taxi) – ~£2–4 per ride

• San Marcos: Yoga, meditation, vegan cafés.

• San Juan: Known for indigenous art, natural dye workshops, and traditional weaving.

• Santa Cruz: Quiet, local vibes and great for kayaking and relaxing.

• Panajachel: Main town for shopping, ATM access, and transportation.

Yoga or Temazcal Ceremony (San Marcos) – ~£10–20
Join a yoga class at Eagle’s Nest or reserve a spot in a Mayan temazcal steam bath for detox and relaxation.

🎨 Visit a Women’s Weaving Cooperative (San Juan) – Free–£5
Learn about back-strap loom weaving, natural dyes, and support indigenous women artisans. Great for picking up beautiful, meaningful souvenirs.

Rock Climbing at Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve (San Marcos) – Entry ~£2
Cliff jumping and hiking trails with great lake views. Small fee to enter but worth it for nature lovers.

Souvenir Tip: Shop for handwoven textiles, natural soaps, Guatemalan coffee, or locally made cacao from San Juan or Panajachel markets.

Shuttle to Flores, Guatemala

• Duration: ~9 hours (long ride but beautiful scenery)

• Cost: ~$40 USD

• How: Most hostels can book you a shuttle direct from Atitlán to Flores. Some include dinner stops or breaks at scenic points.

Days 19-20: Tikal & Flores (Mayan Ruins & Jungle)

After the misty highlands and volcanic landscapes, Flores brings a whole new vibe: warm weather, colorful island charm, and the ancient ruins of Tikal just a short drive away. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Where to Stay

Budget – Los Amigos Hostel (~$10 USD/night)
This is the backpacker spot in Flores. Think: lush jungle vibes, a lively social scene, comfy hammocks, and a fantastic on-site restaurant (don’t miss their veggie curry or smoothies). They also offer daily tours to Tikal, Yaxhá, and even cooking classes.

Mid-Range – Hotel Isla de Flores (~$50 USD/night)
Located right in the heart of the island, this boutique hotel features air-conditioned rooms, modern decor, a small rooftop pool, and beautiful lake views. Quiet and cozy for those who want comfort after long travel days.

Unique Option – Ecolodge El Sombrero (Near Tikal)
If you want to stay in the jungle, this rustic ecolodge near the Tikal National Park entrance offers a peaceful, off-grid experience. Great for early access to the ruins.

Top Activities

1. Sunrise Tour of Tikal

• Time: ~3:30 AM departure / Return around noon

• Cost: ~£35 entrance + ~£15–20 for a guide

• Why Go: One of the most iconic Mayan sites in Central America,

  Tikal is home to towering temples, jungle trails, and wildlife galore.

  Watching the sun rise from Temple IV as howler monkeys echo through

  the trees is surreal.

• Insider Tip: Bring a flashlight, bug spray, and snacks (food inside the park

  is expensive and limited).

2. Explore Yaxhá Ruins (Less Touristy Alternative)

If you want fewer crowds, Yaxhá is another stunning Mayan site located on a

lake surrounded by jungle. Some travellers say the views here are even better than Tikal’s.

• Cost: ~£25 (half-day tour)

• Bonus: Climb the temples and enjoy lake views from the top.

3. Chill Around Lake Petén Itzá

After trekking ruins, wind down with water-based fun:

• Rent a kayak (~£5/hr) and explore the lake at your own pace.

• Take a sunset boat ride with friends or a guide (~£10–15 pp).

• Swim at El Chechenal Beach (a 10-minute tuk-tuk + short boat ride from Flores).

• Visit San Miguel across the lake via boat taxi – fewer tourists, great views, and a laid-back vibe.

4. Visit ARCAS Wildlife Rescue Centre

A boat ride away, this rescue centre houses animals that were victims of illegal trafficking. Tours are around ~£10–15 and help support animal rehab.

Where to Eat

Maracuya Restaurant
Chic garden setting with fusion dishes, cold beers, and great veggie options. Try the coconut curry or grilled fish.

Maple & Tocino
Casual wood-fired pizza spot with friendly staff and solid cocktails.

Achiote
Authentic Guatemalan cuisine with modern touches. Try the pepián or kak’ik (traditional Mayan stew).

Cool Beans Café
Good coffee, lakeside seating, and board games. Ideal for a slow morning.

Street Food & Pupusa Stalls
Each evening near the entrance to the bridge you’ll find vendors selling pupusas, tacos, grilled meats, and churros. Cheap, tasty, and full of local flavor.

Other Things to Do in Flores

• Shop for handicrafts in the small markets lining the island’s edge.

• Walk the island loop at sunset – it only takes ~15 minutes, and every corner is photogenic.

• Watch sunset from Sky Bar – Great views, happy hour drinks, and a chill crowd.

How to Get to El Salvador

• Route: Flores → El Tunco (beach) or San Salvador (city)

• Duration: ~7–8 hours by tourist shuttle or bus

• Cost: ~£40–50

• How to Book: Ask your hostel or use shuttle companies like Adrenalina Tours or Maya de Oro. Many include border crossing assistance and rest stops.

🇸🇻 WEEK 4: EL SALVADOR & HONDURAS

Days 21-22: El Tunco (Surf & Beach Life)

Nestled on El Salvador’s Pacific Coast, El Tunco is tiny but full of energy. Its black volcanic beaches, epic waves, and backpacker-friendly atmosphere make it one of Central America’s top coastal stops. It’s the kind of place where you plan to stay two days... and end up staying a week.

Where to Stay

Budget – Papaya Lodge (~£12/night)

• Social, chill, and super close to the beach.

• Pool, shared kitchen, dorms with fans or A/C.

• Lots of travellers come here to surf or unwind.

• Daily yoga, surf lessons, and tours available.

🎒 Ideal for solo travellers or backpackers on a budget who still want a great location and vibe.

Mid-Range – Eco del Mar (~£50/night)

• Right on the beach, tucked between palm trees.

• Private bungalows with ocean views and hammocks.

• Peaceful, with an eco-conscious design.

🧘‍♀️ Perfect for couples or travellers wanting to wake up to the sound of waves and avoid the party scene.

Where to Eat

Esquina los Amigos

• Street-style pupusas with local flair.

• Try the revuelta (beans, cheese, pork) for under $1!

• Great spot for a casual dinner with locals.

Dale Dale Café

• Pizza and pasta spot with vegan options.

• Smoothies, chill vibe, and colourful décor.

Mopelia Restaurant & Hostel

• Belgian-owned, cozy garden setting.

• Amazing burgers, homemade sauces, and craft beer.

• Great for dinner and a drink under the stars.

Point Break Café

• Best coffee in El Tunco!

• Known for their breakfast burritos, pancakes, and cold brews.

• Great Wi-Fi and a favourite for remote workers.

Top Activities in El Tunco

1. Surfing at Playa El Tunco or Sunzal

El Tunco is legendary for its consistent waves and surf schools.

• Rental: ~£10 for 2 hours

• Lesson: ~£20–25/hour with local instructors

• Skill level: Good for beginners (El Tunco beach) and intermediates (Sunzal Point)

🌟 Sunsets here with surfers in silhouette are unreal — even if you don’t surf, it’s a vibe.

2. Tamanique Waterfalls Tour

Hidden in the mountains, Tamanique is a must-do day trip from El Tunco.

• 45-minute drive followed by a 1–2 hour guided hike

• Natural pools, small cliff jumps (5–8m), and waterfalls you can swim beneath

• Tour cost: ~£20 (group tour with guide + transport)

🥾 Wear sturdy shoes and bring snacks and plenty of water.

3. Beach-Hopping & Tide Pools

• Walk north to Playa Sunzal for more relaxed beach time and great swimming.

• South leads to La Bocana, a river mouth known for its surf and tide pools.

• Best explored at low tide when the beach widens and tide pools reveal colourful marine life.

4. Weekend Markets & Nightlife

• On weekends, El Tunco hosts artisan pop-ups with local jewellery, paintings, and textiles.

• Head to La Guitarra for live music, or Tunco Vibes for DJ nights and dancing.

🍹 Look for beach bonfire parties on Saturday nights — locals and travellers gather for drinks, music, and stars.

5. Sunset Ritual

Every evening, the town gathers at the beach to watch the sunset. Locals bring beers, travellers set up hammocks, and the sky glows with purples, pinks, and gold. It’s low-key magical.

Leaving El Tunco – Next Stop: Ruta de las Flores

Transport:

• Shared shuttles available via most hostels

• Chicken buses are cheaper but require transfers in Sonsonate

Duration: ~3 hours
Cost: ~£20 (shuttle), ~£5 (local buses)

Days 23-24: Ruta de las Flores (Coffee & Waterfalls)

One of El Salvador’s most picturesque regions, the Ruta de las Flores is a scenic route through colourful colonial towns, lush coffee plantations, artisan markets, and dramatic waterfalls. At 1,500+ meters above sea level, it’s cooler than the coast and full of natural and cultural gems.

Where to Stay

Casa Degraciela (~£40/night)

• A beautifully preserved colonial home in Concepción de Ataco.

• Wooden beams, antiques, peaceful courtyards.

• Delicious breakfast included with local coffee.

🌟 Great for couples or anyone wanting an authentic, charming stay with old-world elegance.

Hostal Deyluwin in Juayúa (~£15)

• Basic but clean and friendly.

• Located steps from the town centre.

Top Activities Along the Ruta de las Flores

1. Los Chorros de la Calera (Juayúa Waterfalls)

A series of gorgeous waterfalls just outside Juayúa.

• Short jungle hike (30–45 min)

• Natural pools to swim in

• You can go independently or join a guided tour with local youth collectives

💰 Entry: Free / Local guide: ~£5

2. Coffee Tour at El Carmen Estate or Entre Nubes (~£15–20)

El Salvador produces some of the finest high-altitude coffee in the world.

• Learn the bean-to-brew process from local farmers

• Tasting session at the end (so good!)

• Tours available in Ataco, Apaneca, or Juayúa

🔥 Look for honey-processed beans—they’re a regional specialty.

3. Artisan Markets & Murals in Ataco

• Ataco is famous for its vibrant street art and cobblestone streets.

• Weekend artisan fairs with handmade textiles, pottery, and organic food.

🎨 Every corner in Ataco is Instagrammable.

4. Hike Laguna Verde (Apaneca)

A peaceful crater lake in the mountains.

• Gentle 1-hour hike through pine forests and farmland

• Great for a picnic or quiet nature escape

🌿 Best done in the morning before the fog rolls in.

Where to Eat

• R & R Restaurante (Juayúa) – Try their pupusa-stuffed chicken or house-made pasta in a cozy setting.

• Piccolo Giardino (Ataco) – Beautiful garden café with wood-fired pizzas and veggie options.

• Juayúa Food Festival (weekends only!) – Famous for grilled meats, giant plates of shrimp, and local delicacies like iguana and frog legs (for the adventurous).

Next Stop: Honduras

Transport Options:

• Tourist shuttle to Copán Ruinas, Honduras (~6 hours, ~£40–50)

• Optionally stop in Santa Ana or San Salvador before continuing

Days 25-26: Copán Ruinas, Honduras

Copán Ruinas is a small but historically significant town, best known for its stunning Mayan archaeological site. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an archaeological treasure and one of the most well-preserved ruins in Central America. Surrounded by lush jungle and home to fascinating wildlife, it's a peaceful and culturally rich destination.

Where to Stay

Berakah Hostel (~£10/night)

• Cozy and relaxed vibe, ideal for budget travelers.

• Situated close to the ruins with comfortable dorms and private rooms.

• Offers basic amenities like a shared kitchen and chill-out areas.

🌟 Perfect for backpackers or those looking to meet fellow travelers in a quiet setting.

Don Udo’s (~£40/night)

• A charming mid-range option with beautiful gardens and cozy rooms.

• Central location, walking distance to the ruins, and close to the main square.

• Offers a continental breakfast and lovely outdoor seating areas.

🏆 A great spot for those wanting comfort, charm, and great service without breaking the bank.

Top Activities

1. Explore the Copán Ruins (~£15 entry)

The Copán Ruins are one of the most significant Mayan archaeological sites, often referred to as the "Paris of the Maya World" due to their advanced architecture and artistry.

• Explore the grand Temple of the Hieroglyphic Stairway, the Acropolis, and the Ball Court.

• The site is surrounded by dense jungle, providing a mystical atmosphere.

• Plan to visit in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

💡 Tip: Hiring a local guide can bring the ruins to life with fascinating details about the history, art, and cultural significance of the site.

2. Macaw Mountain Bird Sanctuary

This sanctuary is a great place to learn about the preservation efforts for the vibrant and endangered scarlet macaws and other tropical birds native to the region.

• Located just outside Copán Ruinas, it's an easy visit and offers a peaceful walk through the sanctuary.

• Visitors can see rescued birds in their natural habitat and enjoy birdwatching in a beautiful, serene setting.

💰 Entry: ~£10
🕓 Perfect for an afternoon activity after exploring the ruins.

Where to Eat

• The Patio (Copán Ruinas) – A lovely outdoor restaurant offering a variety of local dishes like pollo con tajadas (fried chicken with plantains) and baleadas (flour tortillas with beans, cheese, and sour cream).

• La Casa de Mayan – For a fusion of traditional Honduran flavors and international options. Their tacos and enchiladas are popular, and they also offer great vegetarian options.

• Restaurant La Ruinas – Located near the ruins, this spot serves traditional Honduran food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The ceviche and grilled meats are standouts.

Next Stop: Guatemala City & Flight Home

After your time in Copán Ruinas, head to Guatemala City:

• Bus from Copán Ruinas to Guatemala City (~5 hours, ~£40)

• Catch your return flight home from La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City.