Darien Gap, Rainforest, and Culture from Panama

CASCO VIEJO TOUR

Depart from the hotel to visit the old quarter, the "Casco Viejo" for a walk through history: from the Spanish colonization and the golden age of piracy, to the more modern era, that of the great advances in engineering with the construction of the Panama Canal by France and then the United States who left their mark on the architecture of the quarter and the culture of the country. (breakfast)

EMBERA TOWER AND LAKE GATUN

Departure from the hotel at around 7:30 am by 4x4 for an hour ride to Puerto Corotu where traditional pirogues are waiting for us to reach the village of the Embera Puru. We will then have the opportunity to learn about the daily life of the community and share moments and a traditional lunch with them. During the 2 hours on site, we have the possibility to swim in the river or to follow the "Botanico" for a walk in the forest to learn all about the benefits of using plants or to get some traditional tattoos (not permanent of course!). We then take the road towards Gamboa, where we board a speedboat to sail on the famous waters of the Panama Canal, a maze of islands and lakes, where we can observe all its biodiversity while rubbing shoulders with the giants of the seas transiting from one ocean to another. Finally, we make a stop on "Isla Mono" to spend some time with the monkeys before reaching the marina. (breakfast, lunch)

CABLE CAR TOUR AND SLOTH SANCTUARY

Climb aboard the cable car and discover the rainforest as you've never seen it before. We´ll take the cable car for an immersion in the forest, in the treetops, and in the heart of the life of the forest. You´ll have the opportunity to see different monkeys, sloths, and other endemic birds of the region while staying in the gondola. Once we arrive, we find ourselves at the foot of a 30m high observation tower. From there, we enjoy a 360 degree view of the Panama Canal and Soberania Park. We then head to the Sloth Sanctuary, a space created for the conservation and protection of these animals. Here we learn everything there is to know about this wonderful species and the work being done to protect them. (breakfast)

Note : the cable car is closed on Mondays.

TOUR OF THE CHORILLO

Today we visit a popular Panamanian "barrio": The Chorillo. Emblematic of the violence that has sometimes shaken the country, we look at the daily life of the friendly inhabitants of this underprivileged and equally endearing neighborhood, which is just beginning to realize its great potential. (breakfast)

The Darien, a tropical forest located between Panama and Colombia, is one of the most inaccessible places in the world. It is the only place where the famous and mythical Pan-American road linking the entire American continent cannot pass. Go on an adventure for an extraordinary experience in this region almost untouched by man, untouched by any recent civilization.

Departure in the morning after breakfast by private transfer to Meteti and the Darien region where we will spend the night. Lunch and dinner in a local restaurant. In the afternoon we take the opportunity to get to know more about our guide and his stories about the fascinating Darien region. Overnight in a hostel in Metiti. (lunch, dinner, snacks)

After breakfast, departure for a day trek in the Darien to the "Mirador de la Bruja" (the witch's viewpoint) from where we enjoy a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and one of the lungs of our planet. This walk, which will take us all day, is an opportunity to admire the lush flora and fauna of the Darien. The jungle soon holds no secrets for us thanks to all the information provided by our guide about the plants and animals living in this environment. Lunch at the Mirador before heading back to the community. Once back, we are welcomed by the Emberas for dinner. Night in hammock or mattress in the community. (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Overnight in the Embera community.

This day is dedicated to sharing and exchanging with the Embera community. In the morning, we accompany the women to observe but also to participate in their daily life. On the programme: Learning how to pound rice, how to use the famous trapiche or learn about hunting methods. After lunch, we will focus on the Embera culture and especially their handicrafts, to then enjoy a traditional dinner. After dinner, the day ends with a presentation of traditional dances. (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Overnight: Embera community.

The maximum weight allowed is 20kg per piece of luggage, any excess will incur an additional cost to be paid directly at the airport.

Transport from David airport to our hotel in Boquete.

(breakfast and flight included)

Today we are going to discover the Rio Cristal nature reserve. A privileged place, located at more than 1700 metres above sea level, on the borders of the Amistad International Park, in the Talamanca mountain range. Let's explore the exuberant flora and fauna of the surrounding area where we have counted more than 150 species of birds, many of which are endemic. Tangara, Warbler, Swallow are among the most commonly observed without forgetting to mention the resplendent Quetzal, which has made this impressive forest one of its favourite nesting sites (from December-April).

COFFEE TOUR

Let's discover the history of coffee in the world, its origin and how it arrived on Panamanian soil. Departure for the Finca de Rio Cristal at 1700 metres above sea level, where we visit a unique plantation of different varieties of fine coffees. An opportunity to learn why the flavours of nuts, fruits or flowers develop in the bean and how the process and roasting affect the taste and, above all, how to recognize a good coffee. Enjoy a professional tasting session.

(breakfast)