Panama Journey

  Panama

Boquete,  Panama Canal Area,  Panama City

Dates: all year round

Description: A little of everything: On this journey you will see Panama's stunning beaches on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, experience an unforgettable encounter with the Chocoe-Embera Indians, then hike the mountains of Chiriqui to observe the elusive, long-tailed Quetzal. This package introduces you to the very best of Panama's diverse geography and cultures.

Highlights: Day 1: Arrive Panama

Arrive in Panama City. A representative of EcoCircuitos will meet you at the airport for a briefing. Transfer to a hotel in Panama City. Hotel Marbella or similar.

Day 2: Chagres National Park/Indian Village

After breakfast visit a paradise found in its purest form. This tour leaves Panama City at 8:30 AM and begins with a ride in a "piragua" (a native boat) following the route commonly used by the Indians for their daily transport along the Chagres River. Then, hike through the forest with a local indigenous guide and an expert guide who will explain the botanical aspects of the trail and the culture of this authentic Chocoe-Embera village. In the village members of the tribe will share their culture through dances, rituals, food, etc. You will have the opportunity to partake in "jagua" body painting with vegetable ink. Arrival back to Panama City is estimated at 4:00 PM. (BL)

Day 3: San Blas Islands

Depart your hotel early for a 25-minute flight to Porvenir airstrip on Panama's Atlantic Coast. Transfer by motorized dugout canoe to Nalunega Lodge. You will visit the Kuna Indians' principal island. This tribe has an ancient and vibrant culture and practices unchanged traditions. You will enjoy beautiful beaches in front of your villa. The Lodge has outside fresh water showers and toilets. Lunch and dinner will feature delicious San Blas seafood. Tour a desert island for relaxation on the beach or snorkeling. (BLD)

Day 4: San Blas Islands
Rent (or bring your own) snorkeling gear and explore the beautiful living reefs in San Blas. You can also tour a neighboring island and swim in crystal clear waters. Relax on white-sand beaches or in a hammock under the palms. (BLD)

Day 5: Panama City
Early morning return from San Blas to Panama City. Free afternoon for relaxing by the pool or shopping. Optional: Folkloric show and dinner at Tinajas Restaurant. Overnight at the hotel of your choice in the city. (B)

Day 6: Chiriqui Cloud Forest
Early morning transfer by airplane to David in the western province of Chiriqui, bordering Costa Rica. Transfer by car to the picturesque mountain town of Boquete. Enjoy the afternoon in these beautiful highlands hiking, riding or taking another optional tours such as visiting a private flower garden or coffee plantation. Overnight at Villa Marita or similar.(B)

DAY 7: Boquete/Baru Volcano
After an early breakfast, explore the trails around the Baru Volcano National Park. At an elevation of 7,500 feet, you will have the opportunity to see the elusive and resplendent Quetzal in its mountain habitat of wild orchids and bromelaids. Box lunch in the field. Overnight in Boquete (BL)

DAY 8: Bocas del Toro
Breakfast before transferring to a local airport for your flight to Bocas del Toro in the Caribbean. Here you will experience the Afro-Panamanian culture and the Teribe indigenous group. Transfer to Hotel Laguna or similar. Rest of the day free for town exploration and optional tours. (B)

DAY 9: Bocas del Toro
After breakfast tour to Bastimentos Marine National Park for snorkeling. Overnight at Hotel Laguna or similar in the center of town overlooking the Caribbean. (B)

Day 10: Panama City
Breakfast then return to Panama City where you will be transferred to the hotel of your choice. Free day for town exploration and relaxation. (B)

Day 11: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to international airport for your flight out.

Cost in US$: 1499.00 + taxes

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Panama Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of 10 maximum

Post Services Include:

• Job and Internship Network

EcoCircuitos Panama's Mission Statement: EcoCircuitos is Tour Operator committed to the development of ecotourism and the preservation of the environment. Our philosophy is to approach each destination carefully, considering the impact that tours will have on the flora and fauna of the area. Guides are chosen, based not only on their knowledge of a region, but also on their ability to respect the environment and share their knowledge with visitors in an engaging and enjoyable manner. We specialize in hiking, bird watching, educational, cultural tours, volunteer vacations and nature tours for small groups, individuals and couples.

Year Founded: 1999