Sisterhood of Adventure: 11 Soul-Stirring Experiences in Central and South America
Remember that dream you had of standing atop a volcano, feeling like you could touch the clouds? Or that quiet moment you imagined, kayaking through crystal-clear waters as tropical birds soared overhead? Ladies, it’s time to turn those dreams into reality. Central America is calling, and this time, you don’t have to answer alone.
As women who love to travel, we understand the delicate balance between seeking adventure and ensuring comfort and safety. That’s why at Canyon Calling, we’ve spent the last 28 years crafting experiences specifically for women like you – adventurous souls who know that life’s greatest discoveries often lie just outside our comfort zone.
Let’s explore 11 extraordinary adventures that await you, each one carefully chosen to combine excitement, cultural richness, and the joy of shared experiences with like-minded women.
1. Embrace Your Inner Explorer at Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Picture yourself on a morning hike, the mist slowly lifting to reveal Arenal’s majestic silhouette. This isn’t just any walk in the park – it’s a journey through one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landscapes. After a rewarding day of exploration, sink into thermal hot springs as you share stories with your traveling companions. Who says adventure can’t come with a side of luxury?
❤️ Why you’ll love it: The trail difficulty suits various fitness levels, and our experienced guides ensure everyone moves at a comfortable pace. Plus, those hot springs are heaven for travel-weary muscles!
2. Find Your Zen in Arenal National Park, Costa Rica
Leave your to-do lists behind as you step into this tropical paradise. Our gentle nature walks are perfectly paced for wildlife spotting – imagine the delight of discovering a sleeping sloth or watching curious monkeys swing overhead. This is your chance to slow down and truly savor each moment.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: No rushing here – we take time to appreciate both the grand vistas and tiny wonders, like iridescent hummingbirds or orchids tucked away in quiet corners.
VIEW TOUR ⇨ Costa Rican Explorer
3. Soar Through the Rainforest Canopy
“I can’t believe I did that!” – our favorite words to hear after someone conquers their first zipline. At 2,400 feet above the ground, you’ll feel an exhilarating mix of freedom and accomplishment. Don’t worry if you’re nervous – our guides are experts at helping first-time zippers feel confident and secure.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: The views of Lake Arenal and the volcano are spectacular, and our safety-first approach means you can focus on enjoying the experience.
4. Discover Serenity in the Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama
Glide through turquoise waters in your kayak, surrounded by uninhabited islands that seem straight out of a paradise postcard. This is your moment to reconnect with nature at your own pace. Watch as sea turtles grace you with their presence, and feel the gentle rhythm of the waves beneath you.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: No experience? No problem! Our guides provide thorough instruction, and the calm waters are perfect for beginners. Plus, we’ll share our favorite spots for those Instagram-worthy photos your friends back home will adore.
5. Enchanting Encounters at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Costa Rica
Step into a world where butterflies dance around you and hummingbirds hover at arm’s length. The La Paz Waterfall Gardens offer a gentler side of adventure, where nature’s most delicate creatures take center stage. Take your time photographing the cascading waterfalls or simply hike and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: The paved paths and easy trails make this accessible for all fitness levels, and the photo opportunities are absolutely incredible.
VIEW TOUR ⇨ Costa Rican Explorer
6. Journey Through Tortuguero: Costa Rica’s Amazon
Imagine floating through serene waterways in a comfortable boat, binoculars in hand, as your expert guide points out creatures you might have missed – a caiman sunbathing on a log, or a family of howler monkeys playing in the canopy. This is Tortuguero National Park, where every turn brings a new discovery.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: The pace is relaxed, the wildlife viewing is extraordinary, and our boats offer comfortable seating with excellent visibility. Plus, we time our visits for optimal wildlife spotting opportunities.
7. Dive Into History at Playa Girón, Cuba
The waters of Playa Girón tell two stories: one of vibrant marine life darting through coral reefs, and another of fascinating history along the Bay of Pigs. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or it’s your first time, our guides will ensure you’re comfortable in the water and don’t miss a thing.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: The shallow, clear waters make for easy snorkeling, and we provide all equipment and instruction. Even if you prefer to stay dry, the beach views are spectacular.
8. Marvel at the Panama Canal
Witness an iconic feat of engineering up close at the Panama Canal. Watch in awe as massive ships are lifted and lowered with precision through the Miraflores Locks. Our visit includes both the fascinating visitor center and a boat tour, giving you a unique perspective on this engineering wonder.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: Beyond the engineering marvel, you’ll gain insights into world history and global commerce that will give you plenty of interesting stories to share.
9. Experience Authentic Peru in Chuquibamba
In the embrace of the Andes Mountains, Chuquibamba offers something increasingly rare: an authentic connection with local culture. Here, you’ll learn about local traditions from local women, wander through colorful markets, and experience genuine Peruvian hospitality.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: This is slow travel at its finest – a chance to truly immerse yourself in local life, with plenty of time for meaningful cultural exchanges and personal discoveries.
VIEW TOUR ⇨ Peru and Machu Picchu
10. Embrace Adventure on the Urubamba River, Peru
Feel your spirit soar as you navigate the rapids of the Sacred Valley’s Urubamba River. Our experienced guides make this adventure accessible even for first-time rafters, and the stunning mountain scenery will take your breath away.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: We choose routes appropriate for our group’s experience level, and our guides’ expertise means you can focus on having fun while staying safe.
VIEW TOUR ⇨ Peru and Machu Picchu
11. Journey into Maya Mystery: Cave Tubing in Belize
Float through ancient Maya ceremonial caves at Nohoch Ch’een Jaguar Paw National Park, where limestone formations tell stories of centuries past. This unique adventure combines gentle water activity with fascinating historical insights. Our guides literally illuminate the experience, pointing out ancient artifacts and explaining the cultural significance of these sacred spaces.
❤️ Why you’ll love it: The 20-minute hike to the cave in the rainforest is great fun, and the tubing itself is relaxing. Plus, our guides are masters at making Maya history come alive with their storytelling.
Why Choose Canyon Calling for Your Central American Adventure?
After nearly three decades of creating women-only adventures, we understand what matters to you. Our small groups (typically 8-12 women) foster genuine connections while ensuring everyone receives personal attention. We handle all the details – from selecting women-owned accommodations where possible to ensuring dietary preferences are met.
Every guide on our team is chosen not just for their expertise but for their ability to create a supportive, inclusive environment where every woman feels welcomed and valued. Whether you’re a solo traveler or joining with friends, you’ll find yourself part of a caring community of adventurous women.
What Sets Our Tours Apart:
✔️ All-inclusive pricing means no hidden surprises
✔️ Carefully vetted accommodations that blend comfort with local charm
✔️ Flexible itineraries that allow for both adventure and relaxation
✔️ Expert guides who understand women’s unique travel needs
✔️ Small groups that foster genuine friendships
Ready to answer the call? Your adventure awaits, and we’re here to make it unforgettable. Pack your sense of wonder (and maybe those moisture-wicking hiking socks you love), and let’s write your next travel story together.
Book your journey with Canyon Calling today – because some adventures are better shared with sisters of the heart.
