Panama Caribbean and Highlands Expedition

  Panama

Bocas del Toro,  Boquete,  Panama City

Description: Experience the dramatic contrasts of Panama in this itinerary, which combines rainforest, mountainous areas and a tropical island in the Caribbean. You will be one of few visitors to Panama to visit the spectacular and isolated San Lorenzo Fort, at the mouth of the Chagres River on the Atlantic coast. Then ride a canoe up the Chagres River to an Indian community in the Panama Canal area to learn about their ancient and fascinating culture. Then we will head to the mountains to stay in the charming town of Boquete. Finally, youll have the chance to lie on the beach and snorkel in the surrounding reefs of the unique and beautiful Colon Island in Bocas del Toro.

Day 1: Arrive to Panama
A representative of EcoCircuitos will meet you at the international airport for your transfer to your hotel in Panama City.

Day 2: The Pirate Trail & Panama Canal
After breakfast you will begin your tour to the Colon province to observe Gatun Locks. Lunch will be at a local restaurant in the area. Afterwards, cross the canal drawbridge and continue to Fort San Lorenzo which was constructed by the Spaniards in the 16th century. San Lorenzo was besieged by British pirates over the years due to its strategic location, guarding the entrance to the Chagres River. Sir Henry Morgan captured San Lorenzo and used it as the entrance point to sack Panama City in 1671. Spend the night at hotel in the city. (BL)

Day 3: Chagres River and Indian Community
After breakfast visit a paradise found in its purest form. This tour leaves your hotel at 8:00 AM and begins with a ride in a "piragua" (a native boat) along the route commonly used by the Indians for their daily transport along the Chagres River. Hike through a forest with a local indigenous guide who is an expert at explaining botanical novelties and the culture of this authentic Chocoe-Embera tribe. In the village, the Embera 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 your hotel estimated at 4:00 PM. (BL)

Day 4: Chiriqui Highlands - Boquete
Early morning transfer by airplane to David located in the western province of Chiriqui. Then transfer by car to the quaint mountain town of Boquete. Enjoy the afternoon in the beautiful Chiriqui highlands with an optional tour of a private flower garden or coffee plantation. Overnight at Villa Marita Lodge or Panamonte Hotel, known for its excellent restaurant. (B)

Day 5 :Baru Volcano / Boquete
After breakfast explore the trails of Baru Volcano National Park. At an elevation of 11,000 feet, you will have the opportunity to see the elusive and Resplendent Quetzal in its habitat of orchids and bromeliads. Box lunch is included in the field. Spend the night at lodge in Boquete. Optional tour: river rafting on the Chiriqui River, class IV. (B, Box Lunch)

Day 6: Bocas del Toro The Caribbean Side
Transfer to David Airport for your flight to Bocas del Toro on the Caribbean, where you will enjoy the Afro-Panamanian culture in a beautiful island setting. Rest of the day is free for town exploration. Spend a night at a hotel in Bocas. (B)

Day 7: Bocas del Toro
At 9:00 AM you will be picked up in your hotel for a tour of Bastimentos National Marine Park. Spend the night at hotel in Bocas. (B)

Day 8: Depart Panama
Fly back to Panama City at 9:00 AM (upon availability) for your transfer to the international airport, approximately two hours before your scheduled departure time. (B)

Highlights: The Panama Caribbean and Highlands Expedition takes the adventurous traveler to three very diverse provinces in Panama. First you will visit one of Panamas UNESCO World Heritage sites, Fort San Lorenzo located in the Colon Province where the famous English pirate Henry Morgan took the fort in 1671 and then carried on to sack Panama City. Then you will visit one of the seven indigenous tribes in the Chagres National Park to learn about their fascinating history and their way of life. Afterwards you will travel to the Chirqui Highlands know for its coffee and cool climate. Finally snorkel in the transparent ocean waters in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago. This one week program is the perfect program for travelers who only have a short period of time to travel and very active.

Cost in US$: $1,225.00

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• Transcript

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