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Geography and Cultures

This journey introduces you to the very best of Panama's diverse geography and cultures. You will stay at some of Panama's most stunning Caribbean beaches in the San Blas Islands and in Bocas del Toro. Also enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience with the Chocoe-Embera Indians in the Panama Canal Watershed and hike the mountains of Chiriqui seeking out the elusive, long-tailed Quetzal.

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.

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. (B,L).

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. (B,L,D).

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. (B,L,D).

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 the Panamonte Hotel, with one of area's best restaurants. (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 at Panamonte Hotel. (B,L).

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 Bocas del Toro Hotel. 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, beach combing and an outdoor lunch. Overnight at Bocas del Toro Hotel in the center of town overlooking the Caribbean. (B,L).

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.

The program includes:

• Meet & greet upon arrival
• 10 nights of lodging in comfortable, mid-range hotels
• Private transportation with a/c throughout the tour
• Meals as specified each day: B=breakfast, L=lunch or D=dinner
• Entrance fees to national parks and other attractions as specified
• English speaking guide throughout the tour
• Information Kit
• All taxes

The program does not include:

• Optional activities
• International airfare and taxes
• Departure taxes ($20.00 per person)
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal equipment
• Extras in hotels (laundry, phone calls, room service)
• Gratuities