Useful Information for Backpacking Central America

We recommend arriving on the official start date, as that’s when most travellers get in. There are no activities planned for the first day, but the group usually meets for dinner around 7pm.

Yes. If you arrive early and stay at our Playa del Carmen accommodation, we'll still arrange your airport transfer. Extra nights can be booked and paid for directly with us.

Please note: you may need to wait for another guest at the airport before your shared transfer departs. Your group leader will confirm this.

The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. You’ll get plenty of sunshine, perfect for jungles, beaches, and exploring.

The wet season runs from May to November and is quieter. Even then, rain usually falls in short bursts, and the landscapes are lush and green.

We recommend using a Wise travel card, which works with most ATMs and supports Apple Pay and Google Pay. Convert your funds to the local currency to avoid foreign exchange fees.

ATMs are available throughout the region, but always check the machine before using it to avoid scams. Some places accept card, but others are cash-only.

Tipping is not required on our tours, but tipping is common in Central America. Small tips are expected in bars, restaurants, and for services like taxis. If you feel you’ve received great service from your driver or local guide, tipping is appreciated.

Your group leader can recommend tip amounts if you’d like to contribute.

Yes, the areas we visit are safe and popular with tourists. We avoid high-risk regions and take common sense precautions, so you can enjoy the trip with confidence as part of a guided group tour.

We now suggest bringing £750-1000 for your trip to Central America.

No, it is best not to drink the tap water in any of the three countries. Hotels usually have large refill jugs of purified water, and ice in established restaurants and bars in tourist areas is normally made from purified water.

Bring a refillable bottle, ideally with a filter, and use bottled or purified water to brush your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.

Most unlocked phones work in all three countries. Check your UK network's roaming charges first, as Belize and Guatemala in particular are rarely included in roaming bundles. A regional travel eSIM covering all three, set up before you fly, is the simplest option.

If you buy a local SIM in Mexico, since 2026 every Mexican line must be registered to an ID, so you will need your passport. Coverage is good in towns and weaker on the islands and in the Guatemalan mountains.

Spanish is the main language in Mexico and Guatemala. Belize is the only country in Central America where English is the official language, and you will also hear Kriol and Spanish there. In the Guatemalan highlands many people speak a Mayan language first, such as Tz'utujil around Lake Atitlán.

You do not need Spanish, as your group leader speaks English, but a few words such as hola, por favor and gracias go a long way, especially at the homestay.

Speak to your GP or a travel clinic about 6–8 weeks before you travel, and check the advice for all three countries on TravelHealthPro, covering vaccines and avoiding mosquito bites.

Pack a good insect repellent, as mosquitoes are common in the jungle and on the coast, and mention the Acatenango trek at your appointment, as it goes to nearly 4,000 metres.

Three: the Mexican peso, the Belize dollar and the Guatemalan quetzal. The Belize dollar is fixed at two to one US dollar, and US dollars are widely accepted in Belize, so you do not need many Belize dollars for a short stay.

Draw pesos before you leave the Mexican coast, as ATMs are fewer on Caye Caulker, and get quetzales from an ATM once you reach Flores. Keep some small US dollar notes for the $20 USD Belize exit fee, which is paid in cash.

We have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old to join the tour. Group members aged 16-17 years old are welcome to join the tour but only with a family member that will act as their guardian whilst on tour. Aside from that, no age requirements at all! While our target age is 20-45, what matters most is mindset. If you’re looking for a backpacking-style experience, with hostel-style stays, local transport, and optional evening activities - you’re welcome to join us.

We highly recommend that you travel with insurance for complete peace of mind. Please click here.

Can’t convince your mates? No worries! Most of our travellers come solo, and it’s one of the best ways to experience a new destination.

You’ll join an instant crew, meet amazing people, and make new friends from day one. Plus, you can keep your travel plans flexible and fully your own.

Ready to roll solo? You won’t be alone for long.

Absolutely. Your payment is secure. Backpacking Tours is a licensed tour operator in Thailand (TAT Licence No.11/12642), and we use trusted international payment providers. Your booking is safe, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Your group leader will email you around 1 day before the tour starts.

Your passport must have at least six months’ validity and two blank pages. You should also have proof of onward travel.

Call your group leader using the number sent in your welcome email. They will assist you.