2025 Central America & Caribbean Agricultural Tour

Arrive San Jose (Costa Rica)

On arrival into San Jose, you will be met and transferred to our hotel.

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Costa Rica. San Jose is this lush country’s capital, a bustling city flanked by mountains to the south and more mountains to the north, with a few volcanoes thrown in for good measure. This rapidly expanding city contains lively markets, historic neighbourhoods and a chorus of old theatres, with a big chunk of the country’s population within its boundaries.

San Jose

This morning we enjoy a morning city tour of this fascinating city and its many sights, this afternoon you are free to wonder and explore at your own pace.

Tonight, a welcome meal in Barrio Escalante, one of San Jose’s trendy gastronomic neighbourhoods. Your leader will share the history of the area and its famous residents as you taste local specialties.

San Jose - La Fortuna

This morning we depart by coach on a two-day adventure to Cloud Mountain. We depart San Jose and drive to La Fortuna, famed for its mellow atmosphere, bubbling hot springs and mighty Arenal volcano. Enroute we will visit a local cattle ranch and a coffee plantation, as Costa Rica is world famous for its coffee. We also visit a local rice farm.

On arrival in La Fortuna, we pay a visit to the Arenal Vida Campesina, a project focused on promoting sustainable agricultural practices while preserving customs and traditions passed down from generation to generation. Tour the property to learn about the process of sugarcane milling, then sit down for a delicious farm-fresh lunch.

After lunch, visit the Arenal 1968 trails for a gentle walk to the Las Coladas lava field. Along the way, we learn the history of the volcano as you look out for Howler Monkeys, deer and parrots.

In the afternoon, we check into our hotel which has views of the Arenal Volcano and rooms with a terrace surrounded by tropical gardens filled with birds and butterflies. Spend some time poolside, listening to the songs of the birds.

Tonight enjoy dinner at one of the many local restaurants.

La Fortuna - Cloud Mountain

This morning we start by exploring the diverse wildlife of the Cano Negro Wetlands with a naturalist guide. We take a drive through fields of yucca, plantain, and papaya before boarding a comfortable raft to explore the Frio River. Travelling this way allows you get up close and personal with this region’s wildlife without having to undertake a strenuous hike. If you’re lucky you will spot monkeys, iguanas, caimans, bats and common basilisks, also known as Jesus Christ lizards for their ability to walk on water.

We then continue our journey to Monteverde, driving around Lake Arenal and watch dramatic views of the Arenal volcano unfold in front of you. You will be able to spot interesting wildlife along the way.

We then arrive in Monteverde, known for its spectacular cloud forests and rich biodiversity, Monteverde is a mecca for nature lovers.  

Tonight, free to wonder this peaceful town.

Cloud Mountain - Puerto Caldera

This morning we enjoy a tour of the spectacular Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, host to more than 100 different species of mammals and 400 species of birds. Our local guide will share information on the fascinating biodiversity of the region and lend their expert eye to spotting wonderful wildlife. Look out for the resplendent Quetzal and its quirky hairdo and listen for the sounds of Howler Monkeys and the unmistakeable call of the Three-wattled Bellbird.

With nearly 500 unique species of orchids, the reserve holds the world’s highest diversity of this beautiful flower.

We then continue by coach to the Port of Caldera on the coast to commence our fantastic 7 night Windstar cruise.

Windstar Cruise

Embark on the sailing ship Windstar Spirit, a 130-passenger sailing ship, our cruise will take us down the cost of Costa Rica and Panama and then through the world-famous Panama Canal, truly a trip of a lifetime.

For days 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 please note that all meals, drinks, gratuities are included.

Windstar Spirit

Windstar cruise ends - Colon (Panama)

This morning we disembark our cruise after travelling through the Panama Canal, we are meet by our coach and enjoy a drive through Panama to Panama City, Central America's glitziest capital. Panama City is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. From the historic Casco Viejo to the modern skyscrapers of the Financial District, there is something for everyone in Panama City. Our local guide will take us out on an orientation walk. 

Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner to start this new leg of your adventure. 

Panama City

This morning we will marvel at the experience of the Gamboa jungle green from within, ascending about 280 feet from the shadow of the forest floor. Through the dense undergrowth and up to the canopy sun bathed in its thousand shades of green that is only interrupted by the vibrant colours of the towering trees. Colourful birds and butterflies abound in Gamboa and you can also find sloths and hear the cry of the Howler Monkey. Once at the top, you will have the opportunity to climb the observation tower (also wheelchair accessible), where you will have uninterrupted views of the great rainforest of the Soberanía National Park, as well as the narrowest part of the Panama Canal. 

Once our visit to the Cable Car and natural exhibitions is over, we will take a 20-minute walk through the heart of the Panama Canal. The boat will slow down and enter the labyrinth of jungle islands of Gatun Lake. In this protected area the fauna is abundant, and it is probable that we will find Capuchin Monkeys, sloths, Howler Monkeys, several kinds of Toucans, as well as Caimans, crocodiles, turtles and butterflies in abundance. This is an exceptional place to experience the sights and sounds of the jungle. Our trained naturalist guides will ensure that you have a unique experience. 

This afternoon is free to uncover more of Panama City. Maybe, a visit to Panama La Vieja - a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site dating back to 1519. See the remaining sections of the Old Panama Cathedral and climb to the top of the bell tower for views back to the Panama City skyline. Or stroll through the historic Casco Antiguo (Old Town). While you're there, stop in at the Panama Canal Museum for a look at the history of one of the world’s greatest engineering feats. 

Panama City - Mexico City

Bienvenidos!  Welcome to Mexico City, the economic, industrial and cultural centre of Mexico! Sprawling across a valley, encircled by volcanoes and mountains and atop an ancient Aztec civilisation, Mexico City is North America's highest city and one of the world's most densely populated. With a long and fascinating history that runs from ancient native civilisations through to the invasion of the Conquistadors and subsequent colonial rule, Mexico City boasts an array of fascinating sights and attractions. On arrival we will be met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel, we then enjoy a short walking tour, then some free time.

Tonight enjoy your first taste of Mexican food with a tasty welcome dinner! 

Mexico City

We begin the day with a tour of bustling Mexico City. Our sightseeing will include the main city square – Plaza de la Constitución or the Zócalo. The plaza is constructed from the stones of ancient palaces and temples and is said to be the second largest in the world after Moscow’s Red Square. The Zócalo is bordered by the Cathedral to the north and the National Palace to the east. In the centre of the plaza is an enormous Mexican Flag which is ceremoniously raised and lowered each day and carried into the National Palace.

This afternoon we visit Xochimilco, a borough famous for its canals and hundreds of colourfully decorated boats - trajineras. Here, we’ll experience the last remnants of a vast water transport system built by the Aztecs.

Mexico City

After breakfast we travel to the nearby site of Teotihuácan, considered to be one of the most impressive and mysterious archaeological sites in Mexico. The city was established in 100BC and the name Teotihuácan roughly translates as ‘Birthplace of the Gods’.

Here we’ll marvel at the magnificent structures built in the pre-Columbian Americas, including the Temples of the Sun and the Moon. These are the largest buildings within Teotihuácan, with the Temple of the Sun rising 66 Metres above ground level and the Temple of the Moon rising 43 Metres.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, or 'Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe'. This Roman Catholic Church and shrine, arguably the most important Christian site in Latin America, was built near the location where Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego. It also houses the original apron of Juan Diego that shows the icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which we’ll be able to view.

Mexico

This morning we visit “CIMMYT” the international Wheat and Maize centre where we met with the director of wheat .We then travel back to Mexico City to have time to visit any of the many museums and sights of Mexico City.

Mexico City - Havana, Cuba

Transfer to the Airport for our flight to Havana, Cuba. Our adventure through Cuba plays out to the soundtrack of a sizzling salsa beat, against a vibrant backdrop of colonial architecture, sweeping beaches and verdant countryside. Cuba’s colourful history still dominates most aspects of daily life, painting the country with an atmosphere like no other. We explore Havana in all its faded glory, uncover the easy beauty of rural Vinales, wander the cobblestoned streets of Trinidad, and soak up the coastal vibe of Cienfuegos. Let Cuba’s charm wash over you on an unforgettable journey, on arrival into Havana we are met and transferred to our accommodation.

Tonight, we enjoy dinner at a lively local restaurant with our local guide. Sitting down to eat in Cuba means experiencing the country’s rich African and Spanish roots. Tonight our local guide will introduce you to some classic dishes such as picadillo, a flavoursome beef and tomato stew, and ropa vieja, pulled beef with vegetables. You may like to toast to the beginning of a new adventure with a delicious daquiri, which is believed to have been invented in Cuba.

Havana

We start the day in style as we tour the city in a convoy of classic American vintage cars. Cruise down Havana’s grand old streets as your leader points out significant sights like the Malecon, Revolution Square and Vedado. Finish your ride in Old Havana where you’ll continue your explorations on foot during a walking tour with our local Guide. Learn the history of the Havana cathedral and discover the city’s old-world charm when you stop by Plaza de Armas, San Francisco de Asis, Plaza Vieja and Central Park. Enjoy a free afternoon in this exciting neighbourhood - perhaps head to a rooftop bar for a local cocktail or take a leisurely stroll around the famously colourful streets.

Tonight, those who are interested we visit the Buena Vista Social Club Performance.

Havana - Vinales

Before we depart Havana, visit Deshidratados Havana, a local dehydrated fruit workshop founded during the pandemic to help with food scarcity. Learn about how these delicious natural preserves are made without any sugar or preservatives, and try out some samples.

Next, we drive west to Soroa, where you will tour a beautiful orchid garden. Meet with a local guide for a private tour of the gardens and learn about the vibrant array of plant and bird species from this diverse area - it’s not hard to see why this valley is known as the rainbow of Cuba.

Take some time out for lunch then continue to Vinales, where tobacco and sugarcane fields lie side by side and limestone outcrops dot the landscape. On arrival we check into our accommodation, then take a short orientation walk with our guide to get acquainted with this peaceful town. Later, perhaps enjoy the porch rocking chair and soak up the slow pace of rural Cuba as oxen plod gracefully along the streets.

Vinales

We begin our day with a guided walk through the verdant farmlands of Vinales, where our local guide will discuss in detail the geography that makes up the area’s spectacular scenery. Vinales is known for its tobacco farms which still use traditional growing methods - learn more about the longstanding tobacco industry and watch a farmer whip up a world class cigar in seconds.

Take some time to find a local place for lunch, then regroup in the late afternoon for a salsa dancing lesson. Find your feet and learn a few steps while embracing the electrifying rhythm of Cuba.

After working up an appetite, head to the top of the valley for dinner at an eco-farm. Here you’ll enjoy an exceptional farm-to-table meal made entirely from organic produce grown on site - this is truly one of the freshest dining experiences in Cuba.

Vinales - Ciefuegos

Prepare for an adventure as we travel through the Cuban countryside, making our way to Cienfuegos. We visit a local sugar cane farm and a local co-operative as Cuba is the world’s largest exporter of sugar.

Our next stop is to visit the Bay of Pigs for lunch. After lunch, you may like to take a dip in the crystal-clear water or unroll your beach towel and sit back as our guide shares stories of the botched USA military counter-revolutionary invasion in the Bay of Pigs. Now a tranquil spot for relaxing, it’s hard to imagine the chaotic battle that took place here in 1961.

Then it is just a short drive to Cienfuegos, one of Cuba's prettiest coastal spots. Arriving early evening we join our local guide on a short orientation walk before visiting the Palacio del Valle, Cienfuegos' architectural pride and joy. It's grandiose carvings in Venetian alabaster strike an impressive pose in this beautiful seaside city.

Cienfuegos - Trinidad

Morning free in Cienfuegos - perhaps stop by a local cafe for a fabulous cup of Cuban coffee. Then we continue our journey to Trinidad, a brightly coloured town peppered with colonial influences. On arrival, our guide will introduce us to the town’s history and stunning architecture during a walking tour. Take in Trinidad’s eye-catching combination of cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and old-fashioned locals. It's a great town to explore on foot, and almost every scene offers superb photographic opportunities - from residents relaxing with huge cigars on their doorsteps, to old Chevrolets cruising by.

In the evening take a trip out of town to a local house for a homely and festive dinner. Be welcomed with the local drink, Canchanchara, made from 'fire water', local honey and lime juice. There will even be a musician or two serenading you and your fellow travellers as you dine.

Trinidad

The day is yours to explore all that Trinidad has to offer. For some beachside fun and perhaps a little snorkelling, head down to Playa Ancon. The town is dotted with open-air venues where you can check out a folklore show that nods to Cuba’s rich and varied music and dance tradition. With roots in Spain, Africa and France the show is a delightful display of Cuba’s history. Our local guide will be able to help tailor a wonderful day.

Trinidad - Havana

We head inland with a stop at the Valle De Los Ingenios Scenic Viewpoint, where you'll enjoy a drink while soaking in the views of sugar cane plantations. We then visit a local Rice farm before we continue on to the beautiful city of Santa Clara to enjoy free time for lunch followed by a visit to the Che Guevara mausoleum. Here you’ll see the imposing statue of the iconic revolutionary leader. In the museum that accompanies the mausoleum, you'll find an intriguing spread of photos and other ephemera related to Che - letters, medical devices, and firearms.

Return to Havana and arrive at your hotel, one of the newest in Havana. Perhaps soak in the amazing views from the rooftop pool or indulge in a mojito at the bar.

Havana

Today is a free day in Havana, we will still have our local guide with us all day to assist people.

Tonight we enjoy dinner with our local guide at a local restaurant.

Havana

End of tour in Havana. Please note that you can extend your stay in Cuba as there are some beautiful beach resorts in Varadero, and there are direct flights from Havana to Lima for those people who wish to do Machu Pichu.