Join Happistart Travel as we uncover two of Central America’s most captivating destinations on this multi country adventure through Guatemala and El Salvador.

Begin your journey in the colorful colonial city of Antigua, Guatemala, where cobblestone streets, historic architecture, vibrant markets, and breathtaking volcanic landscapes create the perfect introduction to the region. Continue to the spectacular Lake Atitlán, surrounded by towering volcanoes and traditional lakeside communities that showcase Guatemala’s rich culture and natural beauty.

The adventure continues in El Salvador, where dramatic coastlines, laid back beach towns, and authentic local experiences await. Explore the famous surf town of El Tunco, discover charming villages, experience the warmth of Salvadoran hospitality, and celebrate the journey with a farewell sunset gathering along the Pacific coast.

This experience is designed for travelers seeking authentic culture, beautiful scenery, local experiences, and destinations that remain largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism.

If you are looking for something different from the typical tourist route, Hidden Central America delivers an unforgettable combination of adventure, culture, and discovery.

Throughout this journey, travelers will stay in carefully selected accommodations that provide comfort, convenience, and easy access to the experiences included in the itinerary.

In Guatemala, accommodations will be located in or near Antigua, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the city’s historic charm and cultural attractions. In El Salvador, accommodations will be situated near the Pacific Coast, providing easy access to beaches, local attractions, and the laid back atmosphere of El Tunco.

All accommodations include private bathroom facilities and are selected based on location, comfort, guest reviews, and overall travel experience.

Final hotel details will be provided to travelers prior to departure.

Visa requirements for Guatemala and El Salvador vary depending on the traveler’s nationality and existing visa status.

Jamaican Passport Holders

• Travelers holding a valid multiple entry United States, United Kingdom, or Canadian visa are exempt from obtaining separate visas for Guatemala and El Salvador.
• Travelers who do not hold a valid United States, United Kingdom, or Canadian visa will be required to obtain visas for both Guatemala and El Salvador prior to travel.
• Happistart Travel will assist eligible travelers with the visa application process for both countries.
• Visa fees and visa assistance services are available as optional add ons.
• Passport holders of other countries should verify their specific entry requirements before booking.
• All travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their return date.
• Visa policies are subject to change without notice. Travelers are responsible for ensuring they meet all entry requirements prior to departure.

March is one of the most pleasant times to visit both Guatemala and El Salvador.

• Travelers can expect warm daytime temperatures, comfortable evenings, and generally dry weather throughout most of the trip.
• Average temperatures typically range between 22°C and 32°C depending on elevation and location.
• Antigua and Lake Atitlán may experience cooler mornings and evenings due to their higher elevations, while coastal areas in El Salvador are generally warmer and more humid.
• Lightweight clothing is recommended, along with a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.

Central America offers a vibrant culinary scene influenced by indigenous traditions, Spanish heritage, fresh local ingredients, and regional flavors.

Throughout this journey, travelers will have the opportunity to experience authentic Guatemalan and Salvadoran cuisine, including traditional street food, fresh seafood, local coffee, tropical fruits, and regional specialties unique to each destination.

Breakfast is included daily. Additional meals will allow travelers the flexibility to explore local restaurants, cafés, markets, and recommended dining experiences throughout the trip.

Vegetarian options are generally available in both countries. Travelers with dietary restrictions should notify Happistart Travel prior to departure.

Recommended items for this journey include:

• Passport
• Travel insurance documents
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight clothing
• Light sweater or jacket
• Swimwear
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Sun hat
• Portable charger
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Rain jacket or lightweight poncho
• Day bag or backpack
• Camera or smartphone
• Prescription medications if required

Travelers participating in volcano excursions should pack suitable footwear with good grip and comfortable clothing appropriate for outdoor activities.

A detailed packing guide will be provided prior to departure.

• This itinerary includes multiple destinations, cultural experiences, and moderate levels of walking throughout the journey.
• Travelers should be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, navigating cobblestone streets, climbing stairs, and participating in full day sightseeing activities.
• Some experiences may involve early departures, extended travel days, and outdoor activities in varying weather conditions.
• We recommend arriving well rested and maintaining a flexible mindset, as travel conditions, weather, and operational requirements may occasionally require adjustments to the itinerary.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers.

All trip prices are made up of two parts: the non-refundable deposit and the remaining balance. Your booking is confirmed only after the deposit is paid.

Trip pricing is based on customized group arrangements secured in advance with third-party suppliers. If cost changes occur before the 45th day prior to departure, including but not limited to airfare increases, accommodation rate changes, taxes, or fuel surcharges, Happistart reserves the right to adjust the price by up to 20%. Any changes will be communicated in writing.

The final balance is due no later than 30 days before departure. Late payments will incur a US $350 late fee for every 10-day delay.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Clients may cancel their participation at any time by notifying Happistart in writing.

All cancellations are subject to the following:

• A non-refundable trip deposit required to secure participation
• A US $350 cancellation fee covering administrative, planning, and operational costs
• Any costs already incurred on behalf of the traveler with third-party suppliers, including but not limited to accommodations, transportation, activities, or service reservations

Costs incurred are not cancellation penalties. These are confirmed expenses paid or committed to suppliers to secure the traveler’s package and are non-refundable once processed.

In addition to the above, the following cancellation penalties apply based on the timing of cancellation:

• 60-40 days before departure: 50% of the total trip cost
• 40-20 days before departure: 75% of the total trip cost
• 20-0 days before departure: 100% of the total trip cost

If the total of non-refundable deposits and supplier costs exceeds the percentage penalty listed above, the higher amount will apply.

Cancellation fees and charges will only be waived under the following conditions:

1. If Happistart changes the agreed contract price by more than 20%
2. In the event of serious illness (doctor’s note required) or death of an immediate family member
3. In case of force majeure

All refunds are subject to the individual cancellation policies, timelines, and penalties of airlines, hotels, and all third-party suppliers. Happistart does not override or absorb supplier-imposed charges.

PAYMENT METHODS & SURCHARGES

• Multiple payment options are available
• Alternative payment methods outside standard channels will incur a US $45 fee per transaction
• All bookings require a non-refundable deposit to secure space
• Prices remain subject to change until group reservations are confirmed and paid

Failure to make payments on time may result in automatic cancellation of your booking. If payment is more than 10 days overdue without prior written agreement, your space may be released. In such cases, only up to 50% of funds paid, excluding deposit, cancellation fee, and incurred supplier costs, may be eligible for refund and must be claimed within 30 days.

By booking this experience, travelers acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in the Happistart Travel Services Agreement. The following summary highlights key conditions that apply to all hosted group trips.

Booking & Deposits
• A reservation is only considered confirmed upon receipt of the required deposit.
• Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 45 days before departure.

Pricing
• Prices are subject to change until group reservations are secured.
• Happistart reserves the right to adjust pricing up to 45 days before departure in the event of supplier increases, including flights, accommodations, transportation, or other travel services.
• Price adjustments may be up to 20% of the original quoted price.

Hosted Group Travel
• This is a hosted group experience and requires cooperation with group schedules, meeting times, transportation arrangements, and operational instructions.
• Activities, accommodations, suppliers, transportation, and itineraries may be adjusted when necessary for operational, logistical, safety, weather, or supplier-related reasons.
• No refunds will be provided for missed activities, missed departures, voluntary withdrawal from activities, or failure to follow group instructions.

Travel Documents & Entry Requirements
• Travelers are solely responsible for ensuring they possess valid passports, visas, entry permits, transit authorizations, and any other documents required for travel.
• Happistart does not guarantee visa approval, airline boarding, immigration clearance, or entry into any destination.
• Travelers must review all travel documents immediately upon receipt and report any discrepancies within 24 hours.

Cancellations & Refunds
• More than 45 days before departure: Loss of deposit and any non-refundable supplier charges.
• Between 45 and 30 days before departure: 75% of the total trip cost is non-refundable.
• Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total trip cost is non-refundable.
• An administrative cancellation fee of up to USD $350 per traveler may apply in addition to supplier penalties and non-refundable charges.

Travel Insurance
• Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended and may be required for participation on certain itineraries.
• Travelers are responsible for obtaining any additional coverage they deem necessary, including trip cancellation,, baggage, and interruption protection.

Traveler Conduct
• Travelers are expected to conduct themselves respectfully and comply with local laws and regulations.
• Happistart reserves the right to remove any traveler from activities or the trip without refund where behavior is disruptive, unsafe, unlawful, abusive, or negatively impacts the group experience.

Force Majeure & Travel Disruptions
• Happistart shall not be liable for delays, cancellations, itinerary changes, or losses caused by events beyond its reasonable control, including weather events, natural disasters, government restrictions, airline disruptions, political unrest, supplier failures, or other unforeseen circumstances.
• In such cases, refunds and compensation remain subject to supplier and insurance provider policies.

Final Acceptance
• Payment of the required deposit constitutes acceptance of these Terms & Conditions and the full Happistart Travel Services Agreement governing participation in this experience.
• The summary above is provided for convenience only and does not replace the full Happistart Travel Services Agreement.
• For the complete Terms & Conditions, travelers should review the full Happistart Travel Services Agreement provided during the booking process.

• After booking, travelers will receive an automated booking confirmation from WeTravel confirming their reservation and payment schedule.
• Following confirmation, Happistart Travel will provide important trip updates, payment reminders, and travel preparation information leading up to departure.
• Travelers may be asked to complete additional forms, submit passport information, and provide other required travel details prior to departure.
• A detailed pre departure package containing travel guidance, final trip information, and important reminders will be provided closer to the travel date.
• Our team remains available throughout the planning process to assist with questions, travel preparation, visa support, and trip related inquiries.