1-3 Nights Packages
Multiday activities in our destinations
Unpublished
HIGHLIGHTS
- Situated by the Continental Divide
- 60-hectare (148-acre) private reserve
- Premontane humid tropical rainforest
- Bird list exceeds 300 species
- All-Inclusive Package
- 90 minutes away from Panama City
- Gateway: Panama City
- Age: 16 and up
Burbayar Nature Reserve is located on the San Blas mountain range at an average elevation of 375 meters above sea level and it is composed of premontane humid tropical rainforest. The 60-hectare (148-acre) private reserve borders the Nargana Wilderness Area encompassed within the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, extending from southern Mexico to the Darien National Park in eastern Panama.
Burbayar (buɾ.βa.ˈʝaɾ) means the Spirit of the Mountain in the language spoken by the Guna, our neighbors.
The Burbayar bird list exceeds 300 species including specialties such as Sapayoa, Xenornis, Yellow-eared toucanet, Rufous-winged and Sulphur-rumped tanagers and Plumbeous hawk. The network of trails within the reserve is extensive and provides access to spotting birds and wildlife in general as well as natural river pools, waterfalls and exuberant tropical landscapes.
Burbayar Nature Reserve is a well-known birding destination for eastern Panama, Pacific and Caribbean slope and foothill species. It is situated in a low saddle on the Continental Divide where the convergence of species is very high and dynamic. The reserve is in the middle of the narrowest section of the Isthmus of Panama which is used by literally millions of birds during their migration from the north and from the south of the American continent. It is also is located within the Choco-Darien biogeographic region.
In addition to being home to Pacific, Caribbean slope and foothill bird species it also host many of the Eastern Panama specialties.
For over 20 years Burbayar has served the scientific community as a prime location for their work thanks to its accessibility, protection status and life abundance. Organizations such as the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), Gorgas Institute for Health Research and Yaguará carry out field research within the reserve on a permanent or regular basis.
Only 90 minutes away from Panama City (70 minutes from Tocumen International Airport) Burbayar is the most accessible private nature reserve in Panama. And from Burbayar, northbound, one can reach the San Blas islands in 30 minutes. It takes the same time to reach Bayano Lake on the opposite direction. This unique advantage offers more possibilities to explore different habitats and to encounter new cultures.
At Burbayar we are committed to the protection of the rainforest and the wildlife found within the reserve, to provide the opportunity to visitors to explore, learn and enjoy its natural attributes, to offer support to science in favor of conservation. We are also working with our neighbors to guarantee the area’s long term conservation status and sustainable economy through ecotourism. The best way to accomplish this is by educating the future generations. Burbayar supports the local school by providing workshop on environmental education and guide training.
About the Lodge
Burbayar Lodge reopened its doors in 2019 under new management maintaining the same tradition of homestay hospitality. The lodge underwent important renovations and it now offers inviting cabins with private bathrooms, comfortable orthopedic mattresses, ceiling fans and 24-hour electricity. Other creature comforts include reading lamps and charging stations for cameras, smart phones and other electronic equipment. The cabins are strategically located within a short distance of each other and of the main house, but with the necessary privacy. The screened windows have shutters which may be opened or closed as desired.
The main house offers a common living room, a reference library, hammocks and hummingbird feeders. The dining hall is located in the main house’s front terrace where all meals are served family style. Meals are well balanced following Panamanian traditional cooking. The kitchen is prepared to accommodate special menus as long as they are requested in advance.
A drinking water dispenser is located at the main house which is accessible at all times. Guest are expected to bring their own reusable bottles.
The pathways between the cabins and main house are exceptional for bird and butterfly watching and visits by Geoffroy’s tamarins and other small mammals are not uncommon.
The gardens are natural and host a variety of tropical plants including unique orchids.
Accessibility: 90 kilometers away from Panama City
Accommodations: 6 private cabins
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner (family style). Wine and beer available (honor bar)
Electricity: Yes
Communication: Cellular signal is available and most providers offer roaming service.
ITINERARY: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Day 1 – Panama City to Burbayar
Early afternoon pick up from your hotel in Panama City for the transfer to Burbayar Nature Reserve.
The 90 minute ride will take place for the most part along the PanAmerican Highway due east. This is the famous 30,000-kilometer (18,840-mile) road that traverses the American continent from Alaska to Patagonia with a 60-kilometer gap at the border between Panama and Colombia a couple of hundred kilometers away from the turn onto the Llano-Carti Road, due north, that will take you Burbayar.
Arrive in time for a good birding session around the cabins.
After dinner explore one of the inner trails in search of nocturnal species.
- Lodging at Burbayar, Meals: D
Day 2 – Birding at Burbayar
Awake to the raucous call of the Howler monkeys and after a cup of coffee head out to the trails. Today you will explore the trails surrounding the lodge. Return to have breakfast in the company of the resident hummingbirds. The feeders around the main house currently host 10 different species of humminbirds. Continue birding the surroundings during the high sun. Lunch and rest before heading down to the Llano Carti Road for some exceptional birding.
After dinner explore one of the inner trails to search for nocturnal species
- Lodging at Burbayar, Meals: B, L, D
Day 3 – Birding Burbayar – Return to Panama City
Wake up before the crack of dawn and after breakfast head to reserve’s outer trails. This morning you will look for more representative species of the area.
Lunch and birding along the surrounding trails
Mid-afternoon transfer back to Panama City
Meals: B, L
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? Round trip transfers from Panama City, birding guide fees and expenses, 2 nights of lodging, meals as listed (B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner), admission fees. It does not include: Personal gear (binoculars, etc.), alcoholic beverages, gratuities.
WHO CAN GO ? Minors must travel with a responsible adult. To participate in some activities the minimum required age is 16 years.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? At least 2 liters of water (camelback or bottles) sneakers or boots, a cap, sun-block, a light jacket or windbreaker (in case of rain), a towel and dry set of clothes for the ride back.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? At day trips leave object than can be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc.
PRICES PER PERSON: Best available rate based on 4 or more participants
Basic package of 2 nights / 3 days:
Double occupancy : US $ 485.00
Single occupancy : US $ 565.00
Each additional Night:
Double occupancy : US $ 185.00
Single occupancy : US $ 225.00
SEASON: Year-round
HIGHLIGHTS
- Kayaking, Snorkeling
- Panama Guna islands
- Guna Indigenous Culture
- All-inclusive package
- Base camp
- Gateway: Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Guna Yala is politically a nation within Panama with its own language, culture, laws and territory. However, Gunas Indigenous are also Panamanians.
There wasn´t a single road connecting Guna Yala with the rest of Panama (not until 2007). Gunas efforts to preserve their identity, and their control over the San Blas Archipelago has made it possible to keep this region as the pristine paradise it is today.
About our San Blas islands Panama kayaking
Adventures Panama provides logistics, gear, and guides to take small groups of 6-12 persons to explore the San Blas Archipelago as far as Cayos Holandeses in Sea-Kayaks for up to 5 days. If it is too windy we will stay at Cayos Limon or closer.
This is a chance to interact with Guna culture, and enjoy paddling and snorkeling and nearby set up campsite to explore the area further.
Day 1 - Saturday, Feb 12th
Early Morning ground transportation with hotel pick up by 8:00am to Gunayala, port of Barsuggum. At your arrival, our guides will transfer you to the island of Sichirdup. Set up camp, tents and relax- - ----- - - ---- Accommodation: Tent camping, Meals: Lunch/dinner
Day 2-3 –Sunday, Feb 13th – Monday, Feb 14th
Your days consist of a wide variety of activities. Our use of sea kayaks and powered dugout canoes allow us access to some of the more remote and less traveled spaces in the archipelago. Paddling to an uninhabited section of the mainland, we enjoy a memorable walk up along the pristine banks of the Rio Mangles. Creek‐bed hiking through the pristine rainforest provides us with fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Accommodation: Tent camping; Meals: Breakfast/lunch/dinner
Day 4 – Tuesday, Feb 15th
After breakfast or lunch (at your convenience), you will be transfer in a boat to the Port of Barsuggum an transfer in a private car to Panama City and to your hotel of choice around 2pm.
- Accommodation: Not Included; Meals: Breakfast/lunch
*** Guna Yala has 360 islands in the Caribbean. We choose the most suitable island before departure
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation, Sea-Kayaks and gear, guides, camping gear, meals and beverages. Shopping stops for Guna souvenirs. Our guides are trained in Sea Kayaking navigation skills, first-aid, and CPR.
WHO CAN GO ? Any person older than 12 years, in good health.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? Swim suit or a pair of shorts and lycra shirt (or regular t-shirt) for paddling and snorkeling, sandals, a big hat, tons of sun lotion, snorkeling gear, dryback with spare clothes, flash light, personal hygiene productes and first aid items.
It is mandatory to bring along an ID, passport, that confirms that you are legally in the country since we will pass through Inmigration's check point.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN ? Any object that could be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc. (We can keep them in storage for you at our office in Panama City).
WARNING:
Do not forget your ID....It is mandatory for every participant to bring along an ID that confirms that he or she is legally in Panama(such as an stamped passport). We will pass through a road immigration's check points, and if you do not bring proper ID, you will be under immigration custody for more time than you can possible think as reasonable. We wont delay the group itinerary if a participant forgets his/her ID and we wont be able to assist you on this matter until our return.... Do not forget your stamped passport
PRICES: ( Please contact us HERE to send you a proforma to book on line depending on estimated number of participants)
1,285.00 per person for group of 2 persons
1,145.00 per person for group of 3 - 5 persons
850.00 per person for group of 6 - 12 persons
SEASON:
San Blas Islands Panama kayaking is a year-round activity. Take a vacation on Panamas Caribbean Islands, you have the choice of the San Blas Islands Panama and the Bocas del Toro Islands.
During the Dry Season, from January through March, the North winds settles diminishing chances of sand flies and chances of rain. The water is cooler than the other months. Although it is good to snorkel it´s not the best time for it. Occasionally wind and waves might be tough for a less experienced paddler.
During the Rainy Season, from April-May through December there is rain, although it is very unusual to have rain that keeps us from paddling and snorkeling. The water is warmer and with greater visibility for snorkeling. We can expect days with out waves at all. And yes, we might have to trust more in our insect repellent than the wind to take care of sand flies.
HIGHLIGHTS
- San Blas islands panama kayaking
- Panama kuna islands
- San Blas Panama islands panama snorkeling
- All-inclusive package
- Guna Yala culture
- Age: 9 and up
- Base camp
- Gateway: Panama City
They are politically a nation within Panama with their own language, culture, laws and territory. However, they are also Panamanians.
There wasn´t a single road connecting Guna Yala with the rest of Panama (not until 2007). Guna´s efforts to preserve their identity, and their control over San Blas has made it possible to keep this region as the pristine paradise it is today.
About our San Blas islands Panama kayaking
Adventures Panama provides logistics, gear, and guides to take small groups of 6-12 persons to explore the San Blas Archipelago as far as Cayos Holandeses in Sea-Kayaks for 5 days. If it is too windy we will stay at Cayos Limon.
This is a chance to interact with Guna culture, and enjoy paddling and snorkeling and nearby set up campsite to explore the area further.
ITINERARY
Day 1
Early morning pick-up,usually by 5:00 am for ground transportation to Carti, Gunayala. At your arrival, our guides will transfer you by motorboat to the island of Sichirdup (or similar). Set up camp, tents and relax while getting familiar with sea kayaking.
Accommodation: Tent camping
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Day 2-3
Your days consist of a wide variety of activities. Our use of sea kayaks and powered dugout canoes allow us access to some of the more remote and less traveled spaces in the archipelago. Paddling to an uninhabited section of the mainland, we enjoy a memorable walk up along the pristine banks of the Rio Mangles. Creek‐bed hiking through the pristine rainforest provides us with fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Accommodation: Tent camping
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 4
After breakfast, at your convenience, you will be transfer in a boat back to Carti for ground transfer in a private car to Panama City and to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation, Sea-Kayaks and gear, guides, camping gear, meals and beverages. Shopping stops for Guna souvenirs. Our guides are trained in Sea Kayaking navigation skills, first-aid, and CPR.
WHO CAN GO ? Any person older than 12 years, in good health.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? Swim suit or a pair of shorts and lycra shirt (or regular t-shirt) for paddling and snorkeling, sandals, a big hat, tons of sun lotion, snorkeling gear, dryback with spare clothes, flash light, personal hygiene productes and first aid items.
It is mandatory to bring along an ID, passport, that confirms that you are legally in the country since we will pass through Inmigration's check point.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN ? Any object that could be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc. (We can keep them in storage for you at our office in Panama City).
WARNING:
Do not forget your ID....It is mandatory for every participant to bring along an ID that confirms that he or she is legally in Panama(such as an stamped passport). We will pass through a road immigration's check points, and if you do not bring proper ID, you will be under immigration custody for more time than you can possible think as reasonable. We wont delay the group itinerary if a participant forgets his/her ID and we wont be able to assist you on this matter until our return.... Do not forget your stamped passport
PRICES:
1,285.00 per person for group of 2 persons
1,145.00 per person for group of 3 - 5 persons
850.00 per person for group of 6 - 12 persons
SEASON:
San Blas Islands Panama kayaking is a year-round activity. Take a vacation on Panamas Caribbean Islands, you have the choice of the San Blas Islands Panama and the Bocas del Toro Islands.
During the Dry Season, from January through March, the North winds settles diminishing chances of sand flies and chances of rain. The water is cooler than the other months. Although it is good to snorkel it´s not the best time for it. Occasionally wind and waves might be tough for a less experienced paddler.
During the Rainy Season, from April-May through December there is rain, although it is very unusual to have rain that keeps us from paddling and snorkeling. The water is warmer and with greater visibility for snorkeling. We can expect days with out waves at all. And yes, we might have to trust more in our insect repellent than the wind to take care of sand flies.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Panama City and Canal
- Jungle Rafting and Caribbean Kayaking
- Camping at Indigenous Village
- Pristine Rainforest and Coral Reefs
- Spaniard Conquistadores History
- All-inclusive 3 nights land package
- Ages: 12 and above
- Gateway: Tocumen Intl. Airport
Panama City is located by the Pacific Ocean; however, it is only 80 kms from the Atlantic Ocean. You will get to know Panama City highlights, the Panama Canal main components, and what make it all possible, the upper section of the Chagres River, Also, Portobelo, once the most important fortfied city built in tthe Caribbean by the Spaniard Conquistadores.
Be ready to explore the Chagres National Park in an expedition through the mighty Chagres River, the main water supplier of the Panama Canal, in an adventure loaded with outdoor activities.
The Upper Chagres River at the mountains in Chagres National Park is virtually unknown due to lack of access roads, protection against settlers, and the previous non-existence of Adventures Panama.
You will raft Chagres River Upper Section surrounded with pristine tropical rain forest, with more than three hundred species per hectarea. Often several samples of fauna such as monkeys of the rain forest (spider, howler, white face capuchin , Geoffrey's Tamarin), sloths, river otters, iguanas, tucans, and plenty of fish are spoted. It is also the natural habitat of big mammals such as tapir and jaguar, tropical rain forest animals which are seldom encountered.
You will be welcome by the Embera Indigenous to stay an overnigth at their village at river's shore.
Portobelo by the Caribbean Ocean will be our last destination. Here you will visit its main forths buiilt in the 15th century by spaniard conquistadores to protect their gold storage from pirates while it waited on a next sail to Spain. Here we will paddle in expedtion kayaks along the same bay used by both, connquistadores and pirates, snorkel and relax on the beach.
In this adventure you will experience the essence of Panama, its biodiversity, ethnic groups, spaniard conquistadores history, and of course, its canal.
ITINERARY
1st Day: Arrival, Panama City and Canal
We will wait for you at Tocumen International Airport to take you to your Panama City hotel for check in.
Depending on your arrival time we will either take you into full or partial Panama City & Canal tour
- You will visit Panama City main highlights;
The Casco Antiguo: Also called San Felipe, it showcases a spectacular view of Panama City and visits to historic buildings such as San Jose Church, The National Theater, The Metropolitan Cathedral, The old Slave Market and the Old Spanish Prisons.
Amador Causeway: A beautiful site where 3 islands were united with the mainland by using materials removed during the Panama Canal excavations. You get to choose from several gourmet restaurants and enjoy the view of ships leaving the Canal and the city.
The Old Panama Ruins: A visit to the Old Panama Ruins, a strategic spot for the Spanish trade during colonial times (Old Panama Ruins is closed on Mondays).
- And you will also visit Panama Canal Miraflores Locks Visitor Center
At Miraflores you are able to see real ships using its locks as elevators to go up from or down to the Pacific Ocean, and you can enjoy its museum and about the history and creation of the canal, its economic and strategic impact..
- Lodging at chosen Panama City hotel, Meals included: None
2nd Day: The Chagres Challenge
View Chagres Challenge in a larger map
An early start at 5:00 am when you will be picked up and taken in an all-terrain vehicle from your hotel to the remote village of San Cristobal, which is past the mountains of Cerro Azul, northeast of Panama City.
After enjoying a typical Panamanian breakfast, we will visit a "campesino" survival agricultural farm within Chagres National Park.
Then you will hike for about 2 hours on a trail within Chagres National Park up to Rio Piedras, a Chagres River tributary, where you will get into rafts to float downstream (Class II-III rapids) through the untouched jungles of the Chagres National Park.
From late February through early June we might have to hike all the way to the Chagres River in a three hours hike because Piedras River might be too low to raft on it.
After lunch by the Chagres River, you will continue rafting further downstream passing an impressive granite canyon with some white water rapid action, and ending before encountering Madden Lake where you are expected by a "piragua" (native wooden canoe equipped with outboard motor) that will speed you downstream to an Embera Indian Village at the riverbanks where you will spend the night or to the closest road were your driver will take you back to your hotel in Panama City. On some months when the river is at its lower level (around March through June) camping at river shore upstream from any Embera indian Village is the only option since there is no time to reach the Embera Village neither your Panama City Hotel.
- Lodging at Campsite on Chagres River's shores or Panama City Hotel, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3rd Day: Portobelo Expedition Kayaking
View Portobelo in a larger map
After breakfast, you will be driven north to Portobelo, where you will visit its main forths buiilt in the 15th century by spaniard conquistadores to protect their gold storage from pirates while it waited on a next sail to Spain.. Here we will paddle in expedtion kayaks along the same bay used by both, connquistadores and pirates, snorkel coral reefs, and relax on the beach..
We should be back to your Panama City hotel before sunset.
- Lodging at chosen Panama City hotel, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch
4th Day: Panama Departure
We will pick you up at your hotel lobby 3 hours previous to your fligth to drive you to the airport.
Depending on your previous arrival time and current departure time we will either take you into full or partial Panama City & Canal tour to complete the program.
- Meals included Breakfast
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ?
All mentioned transportation, rafts, kayaks, snorkeling, and specilized gear, camping equipment, guides, day meals, and camping gear. Our guides are trained in paddling skills, first-aid and CPR.
Lodging: 2 nights at choosen Panama City Hotel, 1 night camping; Catering: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
WHO CAN GO ?
Any person from twelve to sixty five year old, in good health, and fit. This trip it is not exclusive for atheletes; but for anyone ready to hike up to three hours through irregular and muddy trails. This rules out persons that are heavy smokers, or overweight, or with a medical condition. Minors must travel with a responsible adult.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ?
Take a small bag (it could be a drybag, or a bagpack with a inside plastic bag liner to keep content dry) with spare and sleeping clothes for one night, towel, personal higiene items, sandals, small flashlight, insect repellant, and sun lotion (we will move your small back so it will always be waiting you at the end of each day. You should not plan on taking it with you during day activiies).
The best clothing to wear on activities is dryfit, or licra type (avoid cotton). Be well covered and protect your body from sun exposure with clothes and a baseball type hat., Choose light boots with good soles, or sneaker, or strapped sandals.
We will store your baggage left behind in our office or chosen hotel.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? Any object than can be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc.
Three types of lodging available (Basic, Comfortable, Premium)
PRICES PER PERSON (US $) ***
Basic Lodging: Zen, Clarion Victoria
Comfortable Lodging: Aloft, Magnolia, Golden Tower
Premium Lodging: Central, Bristol
*** Above prices are per person and assume lodging in double occupancy room. For single or tripple occupancy rooms add up indicated supplement charge
# Supplement Charge is an additional charge or credit to compensate default pricing used for shared doble occupancy.
## Replacing default Camping by City Hotel Charge is an additional charge to those already contemplated with default camping at river shore on the 2nd Day of the itinerary. During most time of the year, usually from June through March we get out of the river soon enough that it will allow you to have this option if you are not comfortable camping.
SEASON:
Year-round Panama rainforest vacation, and one of Panama best outdoors adventures. Usually the Green Season extends from April through December. River water level is at its higher by November and at its lowest by May.