The densely rainforested isthmus of Panama has served as a land bridge between Central America and South America for a remarkable host of wildlife - and as a crossing point from the Caribbean to the Pacific for a succession of Spanish Conquistadors, pirates and of course for the Panama Canal. From the cool highlands in the west, to picturesque Caribbean Islands, discover a compact and diverse country.

Panama City & Canal
After exploring the ruins of Old Panama we spend the day exploring the vibrant colonial heart of Panama City, with its balconied houses and ramparts overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We then spend a day on the canal itself, travelling by boat through Gatun Lake as far as Gatun locks, keeping our eyes peeled for wildlife along the densely forested river banks.

Highlands & Bocas del Toro
Heading west up into the cooler highlands we explore on foot a landscape of lush, tropical forest, occassionally scarred by the volcanoes whose peaks dominate the region. After quetzal searching in La Amistad Park and the chance to try white water rafting we take a ferry across to the Caribbean Islands of Bocas del Toro where we can relax, comb the white-sand beaches and snorkel in the clear warm seas.

Day 1 Join Panama City. 2 In Panama City; city tour. 3 Miraflores docks and boat trip on Gatun Lake; return Panama City. 4 Bus to David, drive Cerro Punta. 5 In Cerro Punta; walk in La Amistad NP. 6Walk to Boquete along Los Quetzales Trail. 7 Free in Boquete; optional white water rafting. 8 Drive and ferry to Bocas del Toro islands. 9 On Bocas; Boat trip with swimming and snorkelling. 10 Fly Panama City; optional visit to Embera Indians. 11 End Panama City.

Accommodation: 10nts hotel; 10 breakfasts & 1 lunch included.
Transport: Bus (charter & public)/Ferry/Flights as itinerary.
Comment: A comprehensive trip from the rainforested banks of the Panama Canal to walks and wildlife spotting in the highlands on the Costa Rican border. It is possible to opt out of all walks.
Group: Approx. 13 to 18.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader, drivers, boatmen and some local guides.
Trip Reference: PN