| Starts | Granada, Nicaragua |
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| Ends | Panama City, Panama |
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| Region | Central America |
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| Duration | 16 days |
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| Tour Operator | Gadventures |
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| Tour Code | CNGP 23285 |
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| Overview PDF | Download PDF |
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Itinerary
Day 1 - Starting: Granada & Finishing: Granada
Arrive in Granada at any time. Granada is approximately one hour from the Managua International Airport, and taxis are readily available to transfer you to the hotel. Check into our hotel and enjoy the city.
Please try to arrive before 6pm for an important group meeting where you can meet the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and the other group members.
Day 2 - Starting: Granada & Finishing: Isla de Ometepe
Depart Granada at 7:00am for our first journey on two wheels (please note there are no helmets provided). Head to one of Nicaragua’s famous active volcanoes in Volcán Masaya NP.
Cycle along a paved road out of Granada surrounded by the incredible natural beauty of Nicaragua.
Travel south to San Jorge where we board a ferry and cross Lake Nicaragua to arrive at Ometepe Island. This unspoiled island paradise formed out of the lava flowing in between two volcanoes, Maderas and Concepción, is a nature-lover’s dream.
Day 3 - Starting: Isla de Ometepe & Finishing: Isla de Ometepe
Enjoy a full-day cycling trip through towns and the countryside around the base of Concepcíon Volcano, stopping to see pre-Columbian statues before lunch and a swim at a local swimming hole.
Day 4 - Starting: Isla de Ometepe & Finishing: La Fortuna
Our journey takes us onto one of the most iconic roads in all of the Americas. The Pan-American Highway travels from Alaska down to Patagonia, covering the length of the continent, and taking in a huge variety of terrain, the road snakes its way through 23 countries, with a break of just 87km along the way.
Arenal Volcano, once quite active, has been dormant since the beginning of 2011, but still is a dramatic backdrop to the town of La Fortuna.
Day 5 - Starting: La Fortuna & Finishing: La Fortuna
Enjoy a half-day bike ride around Lake Arenal to El Castillo, then relax or explore the La Fortuna area in the afternoon.
Day 6 - Starting: La Fortuna & Finishing: Cartago
Cartago served as the capital until 1823, and was given the title 'Very Noble, Very Loyal' by the Spanish Parliament. Opt to take a stroll around town to visit the ferrocarrill (train line), Basilica and the ruins of Santiago the Apostle's Church. The city lies at the base of the inactive Irazu Volcano, an incredible backdrop to this serene setting.
Day 7 - Starting: Cartago & Finishing: Orosí
Situated in a river valley and surrounded by coffee plantations, Orosi offers thermal water springs and the magnificent colonial church built in 1739. Finish the day with a traditional Costa Rican “casado” dinner.
Day 8 - Starting: Orosí & Finishing: Turrialba
Spend the night at a lodge overlooking the valley outside of the town of Turrialba.
Day 9 - Starting: Turrialba & Finishing: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Stop for a great riverside picnic lunch and continue rafting all the way to the Caribbean lowlands. After rafting, drive to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and explore town or walk along the beach.
Day 10 - Starting: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca & Finishing: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Ride or walk the quiet beaches south of Puerto Viejo all the way to the Manzanillo-Gandoca Refuge. Cycle, swim, surf or hike in the rainforest or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this Caribbean village.
Day 11 - Starting: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca & Finishing: Bocas del Toro
The Archipelago of Bocas del Toro is made up of six islands, only two of which have roads and services for tourists. Cycling here is a great choice because the island is almost entirely flat. The entire trip around the island is 32km (20 mi).
If you prefer not to cycle, there are plenty of other options for you to consider. Snorkel, take a boat trip between the islands, or simple choose to relax on the beach.
Day 12 - Starting: Bocas del Toro & Finishing: Bocas del Toro
Enjoy free time here to cycle around the islands or snorkel in the clear blue sea.
Day 13 - Starting: Bocas del Toro & Finishing: Boquete
It's a long day of travel before arriving at the impressive mountain retreat of Boquete.
Day 14 - Starting: Boquete & Finishing: Boquete
Set off on a full day of cycling through the highlands of Boquete.
Day 15 - Starting: Boquete & Finishing: Panama City
It's a full day of travelling today to get to Panama City, the country's capital. After arriving, the evening is free to explore the city before our final day of cycling.
Day 16 - Starting: Panama City & Finishing: Panama City
Leave Panama City and head first for Summit Park, a 250-acre park teeming with Panamanian flora and fauna. Our ride continues to Soberania NP, close to the Panama Canal, popular with bird watchers.
The tour ends in Panama City in the late afternoon.
View Dates
More Information
What’s Included
G Adventures-supported homestay on Ometepe Island with a local family. Guided cycling actitivies through Nicaragua to Panama. Whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River. Beach time in Cahuita. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Cycle in Nicaragua Costa Rica and Panama, Pedal around the active Concepción Volcano on Ometepe Island, Cycle along mountain roads and coffee farms between colonial Costa Rican towns, Go white water rafting on the Pacuare River, Chill on Carribean beaches, ride through the jungle in Panama’s Soberanía National Park
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Important Notes
Costa Rica will not be allowing anyone to enter the country without proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.). If you are travelling through a few countries in Central America, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination. Please print the itinerary and voucher and bring it with you.
Cycling Grading – Moderate
• Some degree of experience required
• Mixture of road cycling and off road
• Occasional long days in the saddle or multiple ascents and descents
• Good fitness and skill level recommended
• Cycle usually between 35-70 km per day.
Please note on this trip there are no helmets provided.
Bringing Your Own Bike
If you choose to bring your own bike, please be aware that you are responsible for the maintenance and support of the bike. It may be possible to hire some extra equipment as necessary for your cycle. Check with your airline about travelling with your bike, as some will charge you to take a bike on board. We would suggest that you pack your bike in a bike box or bag( usually available from your local bike shop). It’s also advisable to make sure your bike has been serviced before you travel.
Group Leader Description
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
Group Size Notes
Max 12, avg 8
Transport
Public bus, bike, raft, walking
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Accommodation
Hotels (13 nts), homestay (2 nts).
Joining Hotel
Hotel Chilamates
Calle La Otra Banda
Granada
Nicaragua
25521428
Joining Instructions
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to the city on day 1 (or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation with us), please make your way to the joining hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon). Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.
If you have pre-arranged an arrival transfer, look for the driver holding a G Adventures sign in the arrivals hall. Please approach them, and ask them who they are supposed to be picking up (do not tell them your name, they should have this information already). Once they give you the correct name, have your passport ready to show them and you will be on your way!
Arrival Complications
We don’t expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Operator (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
AIRPORT TRANSFER
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Office San Jose, Costa Rica
During Office hours (Weekdays 9am-5pm Local Time): +506 2224 5560
After hours emergency number: +506 8322 9140
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0844 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 01805 70 90 30 00
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
What to Take
Important to note:
– Please read the ‘Checklist’ section of this trip notes for additional details of what you need to bring for this trip.
Checklist
Suggested Items:
•Light fleece top
•Light windproof/waterproof jacket
•Small towel and swimwear
•Sun hat
•Personal clothing appropriate for the weather (See also “What to Take” and “Local Dress” sections of this dossier). You may like to bring padded cycling shorts/leggings.
•Sturdy walking shoes/trainers which you can cycle in comfortably
•Sunblock
•Sunglasses
•Toiletries (biodegradable)
•Watch or alarm clock
•Water bottle
•Money belt
•First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine,
Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, insect
repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
Documents:
•Passport (with photocopies)
•Travel insurance (with photocopies)
•Airline tickets (with photocopies)
•USD cash
•Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
•G Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
•Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Visas
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
The currency in Nicaragua is the Cordoba (NIO). The currency in Costa Rica is the Colon (CRC) and in Panama, the Balboa (PAB).
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank.
You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies.
Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don’t want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
We do not recommend you bring travellers cheques, as it is very difficult to exchange them in each country.
CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 50USD (20USD notes are ideal).
As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
Emergency Fund
Departure Tax
Nicaragua exit tax: $2USD
Panama entrance tax: $3USD
Panama airport exit tax: $40USD (if not already included in flight)
Tipping
It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected – though not compulsory – component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.
Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.
Optional Activities
All prices are per person, in USD amounts and are subject to change as services are provided by third party operators.
La Fortuna, Arenal:
Stand Up Paddling on Lake Arenal (Lesson & Tour) Walk on water in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano. $59
Lost Canyon Adventures Canyoneering Rappel, downclimb, & river trace along our exclusive canyon. $86
Cahuita:
Cahuita National Park Entrance $5
Cahuita National Park Snorkelling $40
Horseback Riding $35-60
Surf Lesson $40
Bocas del Toro:
Snorkel trips $15-$30 (depends on location and operator)
Boat taxi to Red Frog Beach $10 return, $2 entrance
Bike rental $10
Zip Lining $55
Sea Turtle Beach tour $25 (May-September)
Panama City:
Tour of city and Canal $50
Self guided tour of same approx $15 (for transportation, locks entrance, museum)
General Entrance to Canal + museum $8
Panama Viejo $3
Taboga Island Ferry $10 (return trip)
Visit to Emberà village and waterfall $50
Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our CEOs are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers’ cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:
www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/
Trip Specific Safety
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers’ cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have a safety deposit box which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Medical Form
Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility’ is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our CEOs work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day’s activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
The medical questionnaire can be found online at:
www.gadventures.com/medical-form.
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Associated Planeterra Project
The Planeterra Project – the community homestay program Puesta del Sol in the village of La Paloma on Ometepe Island, Nicaragua, is now receiving at least two groups per week from G Adventures increasing income for the community. Planeterra is strengthening the organization with training on how to run their small businesses and is investing in solutions to reduce environmental impacts. We are also working on developing other small businesses in the area to be linked to the home stay, creating a sustainable supply chain – and more positive local economic benefits.
Feedback
Newsletter
Travel Forum – The Watering Hole
Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you’re interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gadventures.com.
Max Pax
12
Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides.
Day 10 Optional Activities
- Kayak in Puerto Viejo -
- Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge Hike -
- Surfing Lesson -
- Bike Rental -
Day 12 Optional Activities
- Cycling Bocas del Toro -
- Sailing Snorkelling Tour -
- Island Hopping -
Day 10 Optional Activities
- Kayak in Puerto Viejo -
- Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge Hike -
- Surfing Lesson -
- Bike Rental -
Day 12 Optional Activities
- Cycling Bocas del Toro -
- Sailing Snorkelling Tour -
- Island Hopping -
Day 10 Optional Activities
- Kayak in Puerto Viejo -
- Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge Hike -
- Surfing Lesson -
- Bike Rental -
Day 12 Optional Activities
- Cycling Bocas del Toro -
- Sailing Snorkelling Tour -
- Island Hopping -
