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PANAMA

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

The thinnest link between Central and South America, Panama became the centre of Spanish exploration and expansion at the beginning of the 16th century, after its discovery in 1501. Panama is rich in history and man-made achievements, from its pre-Colombian history to some of its modern man-made engineering features, such as the Panama Canal, whose daring will take your breath away. Major Indian tribes are the Guaymies, Cunas and Chocoe Indians, related to the Mayans in the north and the Chibchas of Colombia. Some of the noted explorers and conquistadors to have passed through the area are the Spaniards Bilboa and Francisco Pizarro, the Englishman Sir Frances Drake and the Frenchman Ferdinand de Lesseps. 

  
  

 

PANAMA CITY

3 days / 2 nights  

Day 1: Panama

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.  

Day 2: Panama

Half day tour of Panama City visiting the outstanding places in old and new Panama City, continuing onto the famous Miraflores Locks to see how the Panama Canal is operated.  

Day 3: Panama

  • Transfer for onward travel. 
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    CONTADORA BEACH

    3 days / 2 night  

    Day 1: Panama-Contadora

    Transfer to local airport for your flight to Contadora Beach, located in the Perla Islands, approximately 20 minutes away.  

    Day 2: Contadora

    Explore the island with its numerous coves and secluded beaches, or perhaps have a few sets of tennis, try your luck at the 9 hole golf course or take a charter fishing boat trip.  

    Day 3: Contadora-Panama

    Return transfer to the airport for your flight to Panama and onward travel.  

     

    TABOGA

    3 days / 2 nights  

    Day 1: Panama-Taboga

    Morning transfer to the dock for your launch transfer to Taboga, the "Island of Flowers". Enjoy a variety of flowers that seem to be in bloom all year round. This charming laid back community boasts colourful history dating back to the Spanish Main. It was settled just two years after Bilboa discovered the Pacific and it was from Taboga that Pizarro set out on his conquest of Peru. Pirates made it a stronghold from which to prey on treasure laden traffic from Panama. It houses the second oldest church in the western hemisphere, and the serenity of the island is seldom broken. (L,D)  

    Day 2: Taboga

    Day at leisure to bask in the tropical sun and explore the wonders of the island. (B,L,D)  

    Day 3: Taboga-Panama

    Return launch from Taboga to Panama City and onward transfer. (B)  

     

    PANAMA CANAL CRUISE EASTBOUND - PANAMA CITY TO COLON

    M/V Temptress

    A recently refurbished 52 metre vessel with 29 double rooms and 4 single rooms, accommodating up to 62 passengers. Each one of its cabins features panoramic windows and private bath. You will enjoy the comfort of her luxuriously carpeted sundeck fully equipped with wet bar, swimming platform and diving facilities, a boutique, central airconditioning, a 50 inch colour TV and an on board photo lab so that you can enjoy your pictures the same day they are taken. A group of top professionals have been assembled to cater for your needs, with an experienced captain and crew of 16, including naturalist guide, dive master, biologist, bird specialist, photographic instructor and international chef.  

    Day 1: Panama City - Taboga Island

    You will board the Temptress in Panama's main city of Balboa. After your welcome on board, you will visit Taboga Island, also known as the "Island of Flowers". Here you can enjoy a visit to the colonial village with its pristine beaches and the possibility of sighting the Sei whales, which are common around Taboga. (L,D)  

    Day 2: Perla Islands

    These islands owe their name to the abundance of pearls which were once found in their surrounding waters. First up will be the Island of San Jose, where you can snorkel and dive for pearls or simply revel in the diversity of the marine species. Afternoon cruise to Pedro Gonzalez Islands and Perlas, which are a bird watching paradise, to spot the blue headed parrots, merlins, masked and blue-footed boobies.  

    (B,L,D)  

    Day 3: Darien Jungle

    Upon waking this morning, you will find yourself anchored at the Gulf of San Miguel, from where you will venture into the jungles of the Darien, one of the most remote and inaccessible regions in the country. The Darien National Park serves as a haven for exotic flora and fauna, and indigenous cultures such as the Choco. Be sure to try to catch a glimpse of some of the endangered species, such as jaguar, puma, ocelot, and the harpy and crested eagles. At La Palma, you will visit the Choco Indians and explore their culture. Try your hand at bargaining for some unique handicrafts. (B,L,D)  

    Day 4: Panama - Colon - Portobelo

    Today you will approach the Panama Canal and you will be amazed at this magnificent piece of engineering, measuring 50 miles from the Pacific to the Atlantic waters. The Canal crossing usually takes 7 to 8 hours. At Colon, you can choose to disembark and travel by bus to Portobelo (our next destination). Portobelo National Park and city are filled with legend as well as items of historic importance such as the watery grave of Sir Frances Drake. (B,L,D)  

    Day 5: Lanu Nega Islands - San Blas Islands

    Visit the magical islands of Lanu Nega where you pay a visit to the Cuna Indians who still dress and live according to their ancient customs. Here there is an abundance of red and green macaws, scaly breasted hummingbirds and even harpy eagles. There is also the opportunity of some incredible snorkelling in the waters surrounding some of these 365 islands. (B,L,D)  

    Day 6: San Blas Islands - Aligandi and Provener

    On this last day you will continue cruising through the San Blas Islands, stopping at uninhabited islands such as Aligandi and Provener. You can do some snorkelling, ride a sea kayak or simply relax under the sun. As an option, try some sport fishing or diving. (B,L,D)  

    Day 7: Colon - Panama City

    Arrive at Puerto Colon and transfer back to Panama City. (B)