Day 1: Panama City

Arrival in Panama City and transfer from the airport to the hotel.

 

Day 2:  Panama City (B, L)

After breakfast leave Panama City for 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 the forest with a local indigenous guide who will explain the local botanical features and the culture of this authentic Chocoe-Embera village. In the village, the tribe will share their culture through dances, rituals, and food. Partake in “jagua”, body painting with vegetable ink before returning in the afternoon to Panama City. 

 

Day 3:  Panama City (B, L)

Begin early with a two-hour drive along the Pan-American Highway to the beautiful mountain town of El Valle de Anton in the province of Cocle. El Valle is the crater of a dormant volcano, probably the largest in Central America. This picturesque valley rises 600 meters above sea level and has a great variety of attractions such as Indian petroglyphs, hot springs, waterfalls, rock climbing and a variety of hikes for all abilities. Visit the ancient petroglyphs of the El Chorro Macho Waterfall and the Nispero Gardens and Zoo where one sees the rare “golden frogs” found only in this area. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Panama City in the late afternoon. 

 

Day 4: Panama City – Porvenir/ San Blas Islands (B, L, D)

Early morning transfer to the airport for a 20-minute flight to El Porvenir airstrip on Panama’s Atlantic Coast. Transfer by motorized dugout canoe to the Kuna Lodge on the Island of Wichub-Wala. The lodge is in the center of the Kuna community. The lodge has outside fresh water showers and toilets. Visit the surrounding islands and home of the Kuna Indians whose culture, traditions and beautiful beaches remain virtually undisturbed. Tour Grass Island and relax at one of the numerous beautiful beaches. San Blas seafood is featured at lunch and dinner. Spend the night at a San Blas Hotel. 

 

Day 5:  San Blas Islands (B, L, D)

Rent some snorkelling gear and explore the beautiful reefs of this area or tour a neighbouring island and swim in crystal-clear waters. Relax on the white sand beaches or in a hammock under palms while enjoying this unique destination. 

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Day 6: San Blas Island – Panama City (B)

Return early to Panama City from San Blas. The afternoon is free for relaxing and shopping. 

 

In the evening enjoy the folkloric show and dinner at Tinajas Restaurant. Overnight in Panama City at selected hotel for one night. 

 

Day 7: Panama – Costa Rica (B)

Morning transfer to the international airport for the flight to San Jose, Costa Rica. Upon arrival in San Jose, transfer to your  Hotel.

 

Day 8: Costa Rica – Tamarindo (B, L)

In the morning depart from San Jose to the coast and the Tamarindo Diria Hotel, or similar for two nights. This is an ideal place to spend a peaceful yet exciting stay on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. Optional activities at Tamarindo include: horseback riding, fishing and bird watching. 

 

Day 9: Tamarindo – Mangrove Estuary Tour (B, L)

After breakfast take a tour to the Mangrove estuary. Tour includes drinks, fruits, transportation and park fees. 

 

Day 10: Tamarindo (B, L)

Depart Tamarindo on the reglar shuttle service to Monteverde. Lodging will be at Trapp Family Hotel (or similar), surrounded by the cloud forest. 

 

Day 11: Monteverde – Butterfly Farm Tour / Sky Walk (B, L)

Visit the Butterfly Farm and Nature Center, where there is an extensive collection of insects and a medicinal plant garden. On the afternoon Sky Walk Tour, discover the outstanding views of the cloud forest from the hanging bridges, platforms and trails in the tree canopy. A guide will explain the eco-system. 

 

Day 12: Monteverde – Arenal (B, L)

Transfer Arenal / Volcano Lodge (or similar)

This morning transfer to Arenal, a scenic area offering a panoramic view of the active Arenal volcano and the nearby tropical rainforest. Overnight is at Arenal Lodge, or similar, nestled in the forest and all rooms have a terrace with volcano view. 

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Day 13: Arenal – San Jose (B)

Return to San Jose for 1 night. 

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Day 14: San Jose – Departure (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back home or to an on-going destination.