Ultimate Central America
Ultimate Central America
Ultimate Central America
20 Days Starting in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and ending in Antigua, Guatemala
Visiting: Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Merida, Chichen Itza, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Caye Caulker, Tikal, Antigua Guatemala, Antigua
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Ultimate Central America" tour, a vibrant journey through Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. Begin in Puerto Vallarta, where you can unwind on the Mexican Riviera before exploring the tequila-rich streets of Guadalajara. Discover the colonial charm of Guanajuato and the bustling energy of Mexico City, with its Aztec temples and colorful markets. Savor the culinary delights of Oaxaca and the serene beauty of Merida. Dive into the history of Chichen Itza and the lively atmosphere of Cancun. Relax on the sandy shores of Playa del Carmen and the tropical paradise of Caye Caulker. Conclude your adventure in Guatemala, exploring the ancient Mayan city of Tikal and the colonial elegance of Antigua. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, promising unforgettable experiences and memories.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Puerto Vallarta
Location: Puerto Vallarta
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to one of the most popular beach towns in Mexico, also known as the 'Mexican Riviera'. Spa, pool, relax, repeat are all high on the agenda today – and that's before we top it all off with a beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene.
Day 2: Puerto Vallarta
Location: Puerto Vallarta
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you’re free to explore Puerto Vallarta however you like. You can surf, or zip line, take a day trip to remote beaches on a sailing trip. Then, in the evening, catch a Pirate show! Expect the unexpected in Puerto Vallarta.
Day 3: Puerto Vallarta To Guadalajara
Location: Guadalajara
Accommodation: Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bye bye beach hangs, but don't worry, this isn't your last taste of Mexican beach life - we'll see you soon, sea. Nothing screams ‘Mexico’ like tequila, so why not head to a genuine distillery where you can learn how this fiery spirit is made and taste some for yourself? Afterwards, take a stroll around the streets to get a feel for the old and new world architecture this place is known for – and then sample some seriously electric nightlife. It's time to learn about the city known as the 'Pearl of the West', Guadalajara, with its four main squares and glorious cathedral. Then you could go and find a spot to watch one of the city's famous live Mariachi bands do its thing.
Day 4: Guadalajara To Guanajuato
Location: Guanajuato
Accommodation: Hotel Gran Plaza Guanajuato (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gran Plaza Guanajuato (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We leave Guadalajara and hit the road. Here at the old colonial city of Guanajuato (now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage City), you’ll learn about the history of the famous silver mining town and how the economy has shaped much of its culture. Discover the famous 'Mummies', the lovers at the 'Alley of Kisses', and even the Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel himself.
Day 5: Guanajuato To Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Thanks to the bright facades of Guanajuato, your eyes should be wide open by now. Just in time too, because there is so much to see in Mexico City. Mexico City is the largest city in the country and impressively, the oldest capital in Central America. Known for its Aztec temple, its surprising altitude at 2200m, and mountainous landscape, this place is busy, bustling and oh-so-wonderful.
Day 6: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The theme 'getting out there' will take on a whole new meaning today. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are the focus for this leg of your journey in this bustling city. Get stuck into the local flavours by tasting some Mexican delicacies at a local market. Do some shopping in Coyoacan. Then, tonight, re-fuel with city eats, like enchiladas, tamales and tacos. Even head out and get a little loco, if the mood takes you...
Day 7: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s a busy one today, travellers. Archaeological city Teotihuacan, pyramids and Aztec temples are the focus for this leg of your journey. As you go, local guides will kindly impart their extensive knowledge on many interesting topics so you're in the know on anything and everything. And if you happen to be here at the right time, you might even get to experience Lucha Libre, Mexican wrestling!
Day 8: Mexico City To Oaxaca
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation: Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meeting your TM and fellow travellers this morning, you'll be setting off for Oaxaca (pronounced Wa-ha-ka)! Have you got it? Great - let's hit the road. Welcome to Oaxaca, with its bohemian bars, charming colonial buildings and ridiculously pretty churches. Commonly known as the gastronomical capital of Mexico, the food here is guaranteed to guac your world. The perfect drink to wash it all down? Mezcal, of course.
Day 9: Oaxaca
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation: Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, you're going to soak up some serious Oaxaca vibes with a guided city tour where you'll get to check out the local markets. The colourful city streets are going to be the perfect place for some Insta shots, and if you can be dragged away from the views for long enough, there's plenty of delicacies to try during your free night.
Day 10: Oaxaca To Merida
Location: Merida
Accommodation: Hotel Caribe (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Caribe (or similar)
Adios Oaxaca, Merida is calling our names! And we won't waste any time, hopping on an included flight to whiz us there without delay.  Here in mellow Merida, you’ll explore Mexico’s quiet side. Wander down cobbled streets and grand plazas on a unique walking tour, with some free time to explore the bustling markets. Later you can feast yourself on Yucatan specialities and head off for a blissful slumber.
Day 11: Merida To Cancun
Location: Chichen Itza
Accommodation: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pack up your swag of Mexican trinkets and say goodbye to the calm oasis of Merida and hello yet another incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed site: Chichen Itza. Next stop, the most famous ancient ruins in Mayan history. With our Local Guide leading the charge, we’ll learn all about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country, and the worlds that came before us. Afterwards, we’ll take a dip in a cenote – which is the best way to beat the Mexican heat. In stark contrast, next up is Mexico’s super resort – Cancun. With high energy vibes this stop is a no brainer when it comes to getting your fiesta on. One suggestion for tonight's dinner at the Mercado 28, a busy market serving true Mexican delights.
Day 12: Cancun
Location: Cancun
Accommodation: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cancun is a hub of fiery entertainment… known for way more than party vibes. Powdery beaches, endlessly swimmable waters and laid-back taco joints (basically all you need, no matter your mood.) Your Trip Manager knows this place like the back of their hand too, so you're guaranteed to be in the know on all the best spots to head for the evening.
Day 13: Cancun To Playa Del Carmen
Location: Playa del Carmen
Accommodation: Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get ready for your next adventure this morning as we're heading to the beautiful shores of Playa del Carmen. A bit of retail therapy never hurt anyone, so how about a stroll down Paseo del Carmen shopping centre to spend some pesos? You'll fall head over heels for this sun-kissed seashore town. For the food addicts amongst you, a plethora of seaside bars and restaurants are here to blow your mind with their delicious cocktails and local recipes.
Day 14: Playa Del Carmen To Caye Caulker
Location: Caye Caulker
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Mexico, you've stolen a slice of our hearts forever but with Belize & the Caribbean Island of Caye Caulker on the horizon, we're not feeling too sad... Hello heaven. Rub your eyes, blink and blink again - yes this pinch-yourself tropical paradise truly is real, This evening is all about enjoying the last dregs of sunshine, sampling fresh seafood and getting down to some reggae rhythms... **PLEASE NOTE: this day may be replaced with another night in Playa del Carmen when the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled. Caye Caulker activities will be rescheduled so all inclusions and optional experiences are still offered as per itinerary. A Free Time Add On Activity of ATV riding may also be offered by the Trip Manager when the itinerary has 2 nights in Playa del Carmen.
Day 15: Caye Caulker
Location: Caye Caulker
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You’ll need a big breakfast today because you're free to do whatever you want, which could mean a whole lot of exploring. Belize has a spectacular Barrier Reef that's just begging to be discovered, so grab a snorkel and get out there. Back on land, it's all about sandy streets flanked by palm trees and dotted with cafes and bars lined with colourful hammocks, painted tables and the most laid-back vibes we know. You'll be begging to stay longer. And your wish is our command.
Day 16: Caye Caulker
Location: Caye Caulker
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another free day to soak up the vibes of this beautiful city, and spend some more time in the water. Snorkel, siesta, or sip something sweet as you watch the golden sunset over the shimmering waters. Bliss.
Day 17: Caye Caulker To Tikal
Location: Tikal
Accommodation: Hotel Tikal Inn (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tikal Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Water taxis will whizz us back to the mainland across the glorious underwater playground you've become so well acquainted with over the last few days, landing us back in the arms of Belize City. It’s a super swift passing by of the beloved Belize City before we take to the road to journey across the border into yet another stunning country: Guatemala. This leg of the trip will see you travel overland through Guatemala’s Peten forests. This afternoon before we drop anchor at our hotel, you could zoom around the treetops like a monkey but securely attached on a zipline of course! Later on you will doze off to the tranquil sounds of the nature all around you, but in a comfy bed with all the amenities you need.
Day 18: Tikal To Antigua
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Accommodation: Hotel Las Farolas
Accommodation Name: Hotel Las Farolas
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise early today to watch the sun stretch over the the top of the Mayan ruin Templo IV. Not a bad way to start the day, hey? We'll then take a guided tour of the crumbling ruins before a trip to the island of Flores, where we'll have lunch and time for shopping before flying this afternoon to Guatemala's capital city and then on to beautiful Antigua. This place isn't just about the dreamy scenery - there's plenty of history to soak up too. You'll notice colorful rooftop gardens dotted amongst the crumbling colonial buildings and you'll hear the clip clop of the horse drawn carriages that are still a favoured form of transport today. You'll be glad to know there are two peaceful nights planned here in the old colonial town set right beneath two massive volcanoes.
Day 19: Antigua Guatemala
Location: Antigua Guatemala
Accommodation: Hotel Las Farolas
Accommodation Name: Hotel Las Farolas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start with a tour with our guide to learn about the local architecture, tiny squares, and fountains. Don your explorers cap this afternoon and head off for some ME time. Being able to choose your own adventure could take you up Pacaya Volcano on a guided hike. If you’d rather produce those endorphins by making (and eating) your own chocolate, then that is also a rather delicious option where you'll learn about the process from start to end and take home the results of your efforts. Guatemalan delights tonight? Yes please. We'll get local over chiles rellenos (or peppers stuffed to the brim with vegetables, meat and sauces). You're sure to hear a collective mmmm.
Day 20: End Antigua
Location: Antigua
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning global roamers, we came, we saw, we sizzled. We'll fuel up on one last breakfast together, then it's time to wipe away the tears and do those final friend requests because today you're homeward bound with firm plans in full steam for a Contiki 2.0 reunion in Asia. See you next time!
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 18 breakfasts and 7 dinners.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels such as Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta, Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara, and others.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours are included at locations such as Chichen Itza and Tikal.
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Internal Flight
An internal flight from Oaxaca to Merida is included.
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Local Experiences
Local experiences such as tequila tasting in Guadalajara and exploring the markets in Oaxaca are included.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as zip-lining in Tikal and ATV riding in Playa del Carmen are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala are not included.
Dining Summary
- 7 Dinner (D)
- 18 Breakfast (B)
Active
- Chichen Itza: It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!
Culture
- Guadalajara: Stroll around the official birthplace of tequila and mariachi music.
- Mexico City: The candy-coloured buildings and antiquated streets make this one of Mexico’s most photogenic cities. And the perfect backdrop for an Insta shoot.
- Oaxaca: Explore one of the earliest cities of MesoAmerica. Then hit up the market for some local keepsakes.
- Oaxaca: Swoop into the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan region. Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
- Merida: A photogenic fiesta of colour and culture. This is the perfect place to get a real taste of life in Yucatan.
- Tikal: Ah, Guatemala! A rainbow-coloured fiesta of Insta ops and the official 'birthplace of chocolate’. Heaven on earth.
- Antigua Guatemala: Antigua is a ‘tale of two cities’. Here we’ll tour the ancient part (originally built by Spanish colonists) with a native guide.
Foodie
- Puerto Vallarta: Grab your new buddies and a Paloma cocktail. It’s time to feast on Mexican food and watch the sunset over the sea.
- Mexico City: Craving some authentic tacos, pambazo or barbacoa? It’s time to galvanise your tastebuds.
- Oaxaca: Test your courage with a ‘straight up’ of this potent national drink.
- Cancun: Get the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes.
Included Experience
- Puerto Vallarta: Grab your new buddies and a Paloma cocktail. It’s time to feast on Mexican food and watch the sunset over the sea.
- Tequila: Discover how Mexico’s famous liquor is made. And knock back a cheeky shot or two.
- Guadalajara: This work of architectural art was originally built as a place to care for disadvantaged people. Nowadays, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Guadalajara: Stroll around the official birthplace of tequila and mariachi music.
- Guanajuato: Narrow cobbled streets. Colourful colonial architecture. Manicured gardens. You’ll see why this place is labelled ‘most beautiful city in Mexico’.
- Mexico City: The candy-coloured buildings and antiquated streets make this one of Mexico’s most photogenic cities. And the perfect backdrop for an Insta shoot.
- Mexico City: Craving some authentic tacos, pambazo or barbacoa? It’s time to galvanise your tastebuds.
- Mexico City: Heads up culture vultures! Visit Coyoacan to walk in the footsteps of the famous artist. And check out the museum in her honour.
- Mexico City: Admire the ‘City of Gods’: one of the first great cities of the Western Hemisphere. Although no one really knows who built it.
- Oaxaca: Stroll the cobbled streets of one of Mexico’s most authentic cities. Sample the epic street food and revel in the laid-back pace.
- Oaxaca: Test your courage with a ‘straight up’ of this potent national drink.
- Oaxaca: Explore one of the earliest cities of MesoAmerica. Then hit up the market for some local keepsakes.
- Oaxaca: Swoop into the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan region. Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
- Merida: A photogenic fiesta of colour and culture. This is the perfect place to get a real taste of life in Yucatan.
- Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.
- Chichen Itza: It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!
- Cancun: Get the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes.
- Caye Caulker: Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker. This is how we roll.
- Tikal: Spend the night in the rainforest. Your chance to walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans. And meet monkeys and toucans.
- Tikal: Explore this epic Mayan ‘lost city’ in the heart of the jungle. And hear historic tales from a local expert. #bucketlist moment.
- Tikal: Ah, Guatemala! A rainbow-coloured fiesta of Insta ops and the official 'birthplace of chocolate’. Heaven on earth.
- Antigua Guatemala: Antigua is a ‘tale of two cities’. Here we’ll tour the ancient part (originally built by Spanish colonists) with a native guide.
- Antigua Guatemala: Fill up on tostadas, enchiladas and all the other spiced dishes of your foodie dreams.
Landmarks
- Mexico City: Admire the ‘City of Gods’: one of the first great cities of the Western Hemisphere. Although no one really knows who built it.
- Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.
Nature
- Caye Caulker: Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker. This is how we roll.
- Tikal: Spend the night in the rainforest. Your chance to walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans. And meet monkeys and toucans.
- Tikal: Explore this epic Mayan ‘lost city’ in the heart of the jungle. And hear historic tales from a local expert. #bucketlist moment.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Central America with a combination of road trips, flights, and water taxis. Experience the convenience of an included flight from Oaxaca to Merida and enjoy scenic drives across borders, ensuring a seamless and adventurous journey.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable accommodations such as the Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta, Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara, and Hotel Royal Reforma in Mexico City, among others. Enjoy a mix of modern amenities and local charm at each stop, ensuring a restful experience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I expect in Puerto Vallarta?
In Puerto Vallarta, you can relax at the spa or pool, enjoy a beachfront dinner, explore the town, surf, zip line, or take a sailing trip to remote beaches. In the evening, you can catch a Pirate show.
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What unique experiences are offered in Guadalajara?
In Guadalajara, you can visit a genuine tequila distillery to learn how tequila is made and taste it. You can also explore the city's old and new world architecture, enjoy the electric nightlife, and watch live Mariachi bands.
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What can I do in Guanajuato?
In Guanajuato, you can learn about its history as a silver mining town, visit the famous 'Mummies', explore the 'Alley of Kisses', and shop at the Hidalgo Market, which was designed by Gustave Eiffel.
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What are the highlights of visiting Mexico City?
In Mexico City, you can explore the Aztec temple, visit the archaeological city of Teotihuacan, and learn about Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. You can also taste local delicacies at a market and experience the vibrant nightlife.
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What is special about Oaxaca?
Oaxaca is known for its bohemian bars, charming colonial buildings, and pretty churches. It is considered the gastronomical capital of Mexico, where you can enjoy local food and drinks like mezcal.
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What can I expect to see in Chichen Itza?
In Chichen Itza, you will take a guided tour of the ancient Mayan city, learn about the Mayan calendar and the positioning of the sun, and take a dip in a cenote to cool off.
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What activities are available in Caye Caulker?
In Caye Caulker, you can explore the Belize Barrier Reef by snorkeling, enjoy the sandy streets lined with cafes and bars, and relax in the laid-back atmosphere with reggae rhythms.
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What is the experience like in Tikal?
In Tikal, you can explore the Mayan 'lost city' in the jungle, hear historic tales from a local expert, and spend the night in the rainforest, where you might encounter monkeys and toucans.
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What can I do in Antigua Guatemala?
In Antigua Guatemala, you can take a guided tour to learn about the local architecture and history, explore the colonial town, and enjoy local dishes like chiles rellenos. You can also choose to hike up Pacaya Volcano or participate in a chocolate-making experience.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions