Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

14 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
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Small Group Tour
This adventurous cycle trip takes us on a journey through beautiful Central America. We ride through varied scenery - past volcanoes, cloud forest, rain forest and see the famous Panama Canal. Along our way we visit the volcanic island of Ometepe and the tropical islands of Bocas del Toro for a little relaxation. Cycle Central America - An adventurous and ...
19%
$5,793
From$4,710
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star

Highlights

    • Embark on an epic two week cycling adventure through Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama
    • Ride passed active volcanoes, through cloud forests and around national parks
    • Relax on the Caribbean Bocas island

What's this trip about?

    This adventurous cycle trip takes us on a journey through beautiful Central America. We ride through varied scenery - past volcanoes, cloud forest, rain forest and see the famous Panama Canal. Along our way we visit the volcanic island of Ometepe and the tropical islands of Bocas del Toro for a little relaxation. Cycle Central America - An adventurous and exciting way to see the best of Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama Arenal Volcano - Cycle around the live volcano and expansive lake Caribbean Islands - Relax in paradise on Bocas del Toro

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityGranada
End CityPanama City

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Cycling & Biking

Destinations

  • Central America
  • Nicaragua
  • Panama
  • South America
  • Chile
  • Europe
  • Spain

Attractions

  • Caribbean
  • Central America
  • Granada
  • La Fortuna
  • Lake Nicaragua
  • Managua
  • Ometepe
  • Pacific Ocean
  • Panama Canal
  • Panama City
  • Santiago
  • Santo Domingo

Activities

  • Cycling

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Trip starts in Granada

Our journey begins in Granada, a colonial arquitectural gem, situated at the foot of Mombacho volcano on the north-west shore of Lake Nicaragua. Founded in 1524 by the conquistador Hernandez de Cordoba it was the first colonial city founded in Nicaragua. The baroque a...

Day 2 Cycle by Lake Nicaragua. Visit Masaya Volcano National Park (optional)

This morning we get used to our bikes on a short cycle from the hotel down to the shores of Lake Nicaragua. After returning to our hotel there will be time to explore Granada on foot and some freetime for lunch. The city's narrow lanes and historic buildings are ideal...

Day 3 Cycle on Ometepe Island in Lake Nicaragua

Leaving Granada behind this morning we drive to the highland white villages, famed locally for their importance in ancient beliefs relating to witchcraft. High up in Catarina village we can enjoy the best views across the spectacular, blue Apoyo Lagoon in the volcanic...

Day 4 Optional ride around Maderas Volcano

Ometepe is made up of 2 volcanoes which rise up from the waters of Lake Nicaragua - the perfect cone of Concepcion and the slightly smaller Maderas Volcano. Today is left free and your Explore Leader will explain the different optional excursions open to you which wil...

Day 5 Over the border to Costa Rica

We start the day with a cycle ride back to the ferry port. From Charco Verde this is 13 kms/8.0 miles and from Santo Domingo this would be 26 km. We then cross back to the mainland by ferry and drive the short distance to the Costa Rican border. After border crossing ...

Day 6 Cycle around Arenal Lake and Volcano

A 45-minute drive this morning brings us to the starting point for our ride around Arenal Lake; a challenging route that takes in the spectacular backdrop of the volcano. Set in an area of national park covering some 9,884 acres, Arenal volcano has been especially act...

Day 7 Free Day in La Fortuna

Today is left free for resting or exploring the tropical rainforest in more depth on either a canopy excursion, a visit to the hot springs or a jungle walk across hanging bridges. Alternatively, you may wish to cycle in and around La Fortuna, taking in some of the imp...

Day 8 Cycle through the stunning Orosi Valley to Turrialba

We start the day with a 4 hour drive to the small town of Orosi, set in the impressive Orosi Valley, forged by the meandering course of the powerful Reventazón River. This picturesque valley is the setting for today's ride, as we discover the lush green vistas of what...

Day 9 Cycle to the Panamanian border. On to Bocas del Toro idyllic islands

Driving up over the nearby mountain ridges this morning we then descend by bus towards the Caribbean coast. After about 2.5 hours we reach Puerto Viejo where we switch from the bus to our bikes and cycle to the border with Panama through a totally different side of Co...

Day 10 Free day on Bocas del Toro. Optional snorkel, boat trip...

Today is left free to enjoy the Caribbean with a number of optional activities that you might like to try. The islands boast stunning beaches and coral reefs and there are opportunities to snorkel or dive the rich waters. You may like to take a boat trip around the ar...

Day 11 Drive over the continental divide and ride on to Santiago

After taking the short ferry ride back to Almirante we drive south and then upwards over the Continental Divide and the cool Panamanian highlands, a journey of 2.5 hours. We commence todays cycle at Fortuna lake (1070 metres/3510 feet above sea level) and the route of...

Day 12 Cycle through farmland and ranches. Drive on to Panama City

Today's cycle ride begins near Santiago and on the bikes we pass farmland and ranches that offer an insight into a traditional and rural Panamanian way of life. After lunch we drive to Panama City (3.5 hours), hopefully with time for a swim in the Pacific Ocean before...

Day 13 Visit Panama Canal. Coastal bike path in Panama City

A short drive out of town takes us to Miraflores lock, 1 of the best viewing points on the Panama Canal. We can take time to explore the story of the canal construction in the excellent museum and see huge container ships making their way through this major lock separ...

Day 14 Trip ends in Panama City

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Panama City. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like an airport...

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Dates & Availability

Price From $4,710
Price per day$336
Last Updated: 5/8/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Single Room (Optional)
Availability
05 Oct 2024
18 Oct 2024
$4,710
$740
10 spots left
02 Nov 2024
15 Nov 2024
$4,710
$740
12 spots left
09 Nov 2024
22 Nov 2024
$4,710
$740
8 spots left
18 Jan 2025
31 Jan 2025
$4,840
$760
16 spots left
15 Feb 2025
28 Feb 2025
$4,840
$760
16 spots left
04 Oct 2025
17 Oct 2025
$4,840
$760
16 spots left
01 Nov 2025
14 Nov 2025
$4,840
$760
16 spots left
15 Nov 2025
28 Nov 2025
$4,840
$760
16 spots left

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
6,612
Great
2,191
Average
376
Disappointing
117
Terrible
56
M

Moira

Feb 2024

Written on

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

This is the trip that just keeps on giving, every day varied an...

M

Martin

Feb 2024

Written on

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

Costa Rica flora and fauna and Panama Canal. Knowledgeable and compassionate tour leader.

R

Russell

Jan 2023

Written on

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

A fantastic time. Cycling is a brilliant way of seeing a country and in this case 3 countries, all different in their own unique ways. Our guide "Fez" and his drive...

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A fabulous trip! Siri, our fabulous tour guide, brought such enthusiasm for all the places to visit and organised all the travel and orientations in an efficient but...

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Tour Operator

Explore!

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About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


Why we love this operator
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
What they’re known for
Famous for our expert local guides that help ease the unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each and every

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Logistics

Transportation & Flights

Bus, Bicycle, Boat,

Transportation & flights

Bus, Bicycle, Boat
Guides
Explore Tour Leader, Driver(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Panama: Citizens from the UK, New Zealand, Australian, US and Canada do not require a visa for a stay up to 30 days. However, on entry you will be required to show that you have either 500USD in cash or a credit card. Please note that upon entering Panama by land from Costa Rica you may be required to present a copy of your return ticket home. Costa Rica: Citizens from the UK, US, Canada and most EU countries do not require a visa for a stay up to 90 days. Citizen of Australia, New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland do not require a visa for stays up to 30 days. Nicaragua: Visas are not required for UK, New Zealand, Australian, US and Canadian citizens. There is an entry charge of 10USD Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate. Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office. USA: If your flights pass through the USA, even if only in transit, you will require either a visa or an ESTA (an e-visa). Please read on for more information. Citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and passport holders from several EU countries can apply for an ESTA under certain conditions. This applies if you enter the country by sea or by air, and this must be done online via https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely be refused boarding. You must have a biometric passport to apply for an ESTA. UK passports which are biometric feature a small gold symbol (camera) at the bottom of the front cover. If you have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen since 2011 or are dual nationals of these countries, you cannot travel with an ESTA and instead you will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. If you are unable to provide a valid visa before boarding flights to the US, or entering via another method, you may not be permitted to travel. You should also be aware that if you have travelled to or have been in Cuba since the 12th of January 2021, you will not be eligible for an ESTA visa waiver and will need to apply for a US visa. You should consult the US State Department website to determine which you will need. Your ESTA application will ask for Point of Contact information. Please note that if you're only transiting through the USA then this is not required. If you're visiting or staying in the USA on an Explore trip, then our USA contact information will be listed on your final documentation which you will receive approximately 3-4 weeks before departure. Entry requirements for the USA can change regularly, therefore, please ensure you have the most up to date information before you travel by checking the US embassy website. Visa applications - http://london.usembassy.gov/niv/apply.html Canada: An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is required by British citizens transiting via Canada. For more information see the official Canadian government website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against typhoid, infectious hepatitis and polio. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please note many countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean require a yellow fever vaccination certificates if travelling from infected areas. A detailed list of these countries can be found on the NaTHNaC website - http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries. Also on the NaTHNaC site there is a list of Countries (and specific areas within a country) which are at risk of infection and a vaccination is therefore recommended. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 13
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-CNCP

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