HIGHLIGHTS
- Chagres National Park and Guna Yala
- Rafting and Sea kayaking
- Ground and ocean transportation
- Jungle hiking and coral reef snorkeling
- Embera and Guna Yala indigenous cultures
- Age: 9 and up
- Camping
- All-inclusive package
- Gateway: Panama City
One of Panama adventure packages that will take you through the pristine upper Chagres National Park. Adventures Panama pioneered tours in this region in 1994. Due to lack of access roads, and pristine forest it is one of our favorite destination.
The Chagres National Park is also the habitat of Embera Rainforest Tribes. Natives that have adapted to live in jungles by the river. We will visit them.
The San Blas Archipelago, with more than 350 islands spreading along the North East of the isthmus, of Panama, from Colon to Colombia, and the territories from the Caribbean Ocean up to the continental divide along mountain range defines San Blas or Guna Yala, the homeland of Guna Natives.
Gunas are well known for their molas, bright and colorful fabric panels, which they manufacture using the technique of reverse application, and to creat their female dresses.
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 (not until 2007) connecting Guna Yala with the rest of Panama. Guna´s efforts to preserve their identity, and control over San Blas has made it possible to keep this region as the pristine paradise it is today.
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ITINERARY
1st day: Arrival to Panama City
You will be welcomed by us at Tocumen International Airport, and transferred to a Panama City Hotel. We will have a welcome meeting for the group at 07:00 pm in the hotel lobby.
Lodging at Hotel Marbella**
2th day: The Chagres Challenge
Get ready for an early start at 07:00 am when you will be picked up and taken in an all-terrain vehicle to the remote village of San Cristobal, which is past the mountains of Cerro Azul, northeast of Panama City.
After an exciting 4x4 drive through our own made highway, you will hike for about 2-3 hours on a trail within Chagres National Park up to Rio Piedras, a Chagres River tributary or all the way to Chagres River. Here you will get into rafts to float downstream (Class II-III rapids) into the untouched jungles of the upper Chagres River watershed.
We will have lunch by the river and continue rafting further downstream, passing an impressive granite canyon with some white water rapids action, ending just before encountering Alhajuela Lake.
We will either set up camp for a night on a river bank or at an Embera Village, around 4-6 p.m.
Lodging at Tent Camp – dinner and breakfast the next day.
3rd day: Embera Indian Village
After breakfast you will help to take down our camp leaving no trace behind in the case of an improvised camp by the river, or start the day at the Embera village.
Along the trek we will be expected by a “piragua” (native wooden canoe equipped with outboard motor) that will take us to their Embera Indian Village.
These Embera Natives migrated twenty yeasrs ago to Chagres National Park area, where they found a habitat very similar to the one that they were so familiar with in the Darien Jungles, by Colombia..
After indulging in the kind hospitality of Embera Natives we will get back to our “piragua” that will take us to the nearest road. A driver will be expecting us to bring you back to civilization, and back to the Hotel in the city.
Lodging Hotel Marbella* – breakfast, lunch
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4th day: San Blas Archipelago - Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling
Pick up at 05:00 am to be transported in 4x4 to San Blas. It will be a 3 hour drive in which we will cross the continental divide from the Pacific to the Atlantic. Once in the ocean we will board a motorboat that will take us to our recently set base camp.
On this day the group will get a taste of sea kayaking in a nearby circuit.
Lodging at camp – breakfast, lunch, dinner
5th - 6th days: Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling
Explore near by islands and reefs
Lodging at camp – breakfast, lunch, dinner
7th day: Departure
Early wake up to pack and make it out by 07:00 am after breakfast. Back to mainland onboard motorboat and back to Panama City in 4x4 vehicles. Arrive to Panama City around 12:00 pm
- breakfast
Chagres-Guna Yala from Aventuras Panama on Vimeo.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation, rafts or duckies, sea kayaks (tandem or single) and related gear, camping gear, guides, trip's meals. Our guides are trained in river and sea navigation skills, first-aid and CPR.
All mentioned activities are guided and included
Lodging and catering:
2 nights at Hotel Marbella**, Panama City
1 night at Tent Campsite by upper Chagres River, Chagres National Park, Panama, 3 nights at Tent Campsite at San Blas, Panama
6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
Transfers:
All mentioned ground and water transfers within Panama are included.
Not Included:
International flight, airport tax ($ 20.00/person), personal expenses, tips, meals not specified in itinerary, extras in hotels(laundry, room service, phone calls)
WHO CAN GO ? This package is designed for couples, friends, or singles above 18 yrs old that enjoy to team up for paddling in the outdoors. Lodging has been chosen considereing local style, comfortable and basic non-luxsury accomodation with out luxury.
However, any person from 12 to 65 years old, in good health, ready to walk for about two and a half hours through an irregular and muddy path could do it with some modifications(Minors must travel with a responsible adult).
Private groups with some customizations can be arranged.
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ? Daily items: Swimsuit or a pair of shorts for navigating, sneakers or light boots with good soles, a cap, sun-block, a light jacket or windbreaker (in case the weather turns chilly), a towel and a dry set of clothes for after the day trip. Blanket, flashlight, personal higiene items.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? For a day tours leave objects that can be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc.
WARNING:
Do not forget your ID.... On traveling to Guna Yala on Day 4 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
PRICE:
US $ 1,630.00 per person in double room
US $ 1,780.00 per person in single room
Group leader will go for free for a group of eight persons and more.
SEASON:
This is one of Panama adventure packages good year-round.
The rainy season in Panama starts in April-May and ends by November-December. Due to changing river water levels it can not be defined in advance where we will stay the night at the river banks. At San Blas, usually the north wind settles in from December to March which does not allow us to go as far as Cayos Holandeses. On these months usually we set up camp on Cayos Limon.
NOTES:
(1) Aventuras Panama reserves the right, at its sole criteria, to exchange program with similar activities or accommodations in case it considers it necessary.
(2) Participants should become familiar and agree with Aventuras Panama Terms and Conditions.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Sea Voyage on board The Discovery
- Journey Between Seas - Panama Canal
- Caribbean and Pacific Ocean
- Barro Colorado at Gatun Lake
- Darien Jungle
- Ground and ocean transportation
- All-inclusive package
- Gateway: Panama City
Experience Panama in the most intense way possible - aboard The Discovery. More than a sea voyage, far more than a cruise, a journey on The Discovery is a true sensory experience. You will witness Panama in all of its glory through sight, sound, smell, touch, and more. Enjoy the scent of the rain forest, the sea, and the mountains. Feel the textures of native handicrafts, forest growth, and ocean foam. Listen to the beautifully preserved languages of native peoples as well as the dialects of the many cultures that fill the towns, villages, and cities.
Taste the delicious flavors of many cuisines and the freshest foods. There is nothing that can compare to a true travel experience of this kine - a discovery of an entirely new world.
The true adventurers and world travelers will immediately understand the opportunity available aboard The Discovery. Taking a "Journey Between the Seas" on a vessel such as this offers an unprecedented exploration. This trip creates a body, mind, and spiritual experience thanks to the compact nature of the vessel, the narrow marine routes it will follow, and the pristine land we travel as a group.
You crew of only ten has been selected and trained to provide 24 travelers with the ideal experience that is possible only aboard The Discovery. Comfortable and roomy cabins, ample lounges, and plenty of space on deck will allow travelers to revel in the landscape and scenery passing by. Everything is immediate, vivid, and so close! And nothing compares to the magic that occurs as every night melts into a sea of brilliant sunrise and as each new dawn creates the ideal conditions for a day of exploration.
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ITINERARY
Northbound Journey
Day 1 Panama City - Flamenco Marina
Leave the city and head south into the archipelago towards the beautiful and popular Contador Island. Part of the Pearl Islands, The Discovery stays here for its first night at sea. The next day we begin to navigate our way towards Darien Jungle. This is an ideal time to get to know one another, our expedition leaders, and the crew. Enjoy your first experience of our amazing native cuisine. (D)
Day 2 Darien Jungle
A rare and exciting day is ahead. Today you and your fellow travelers will head back more than 600 years in time as you enter the remote Darien Jungle. Traveling by motor boat up the river, you may feel your breath catch as an ancient village emerges from jungle growth or mist. Then prepare yourself for a remarkable treat as you meet the Embera Indians. This is a privileged and truly remarkable opportunity as these indigenous people have managed to maintain their culture, lifestyle, and traditions in the ways before the Spaniards arrived. They have lasted through colonization and centuries of change, and this is something few people will be able to encounter. The Embera are artisans and master crafters who will show you their impressive basketry and cocobolo wood carvings. Along the way up or down the river, you might have caught a glimpse of rare birds and wildlife too, so keep a sharp eye for a visual treasure and have your camera at the ready. We return to The Discovery for our evening of rest and relaxation before another busy day. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Pearl Islands – San Telmo & Mogo Mogo
The Pearl Islands were one of the first chosen by the Spaniards, and they earned their name for the enormous number of pearls taken from the oysters that filled the fisheries of the surrounding waters. Today, there is no longer a massive pearl industry, and so you can snorkel and swim in the bright and clear waters. We head to the outer area of the archipelago and visit the islands of San Telmo and Mogo Mogo. You may enjoy the beautiful beaches and the impressively fertile fishing grounds. You can also checkout the remains of the Civil War era submarine - the Explorer - that was built in 1865, but sunk off the coast of San Telmo when doing oyster fishing in the late 1800s. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Panama Canal Transit – Gatun Lake
Today you will rise at the Pacific entrance to the famous Panama Canal, and our vessel will join the line of ships waiting to enter the passage. We travel the northbound canal passage and will make our way through the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks. The Discover is going to brought 85 feet above sea level to Gatun Lake. Don't miss your chance to view this impressive feat as our passengers get to witness the operation of the locks up close from the decks. We will then enter the Gaillard Cut, which is the narrowest portion of the canal, and which allows us to bisect the Continental Divide. Here too you won't want to miss a moment as this is a section that is geologically significant and which reveals the endless maintenance needed on the canal to prevent any landslides from occurring. We spend the evening in Gatun Lake on Panama Canal waters. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Panama Canal – Barro Colorado
Progress often demands a price, and the construction of the Panama Canal meant the loss of the lower jungle tract that now sits beneath the waters of Gatun Lake. As this was once an area of abundant wildlife, many of the creatures that once inhabited the forests made their way to the higher mountain elevations. These peaks are now islands that dot the surface of the lake. Today we visit Barro Colorado Island where the Smithsonian’s Tropical Research Center is found. Our leader will guide smaller water vessel past lush rainforests to secluded areas of the lake and allow travelers to witness the impressive beauty of the jungle. You may encounter exotic birds, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and crocodiles and other animals in native surroundings. Be prepared for sensory overload, and be sure to have your camera at the ready as this area is also known as a premier location for viewing monkeys and other animals. The Discovery will exit the Panama Canal in the afternoon on its way to the mouth of the Chagres River. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Chagres River - Fort San Lorenzo
History is in abundance on this day of exploration as we encounter the Chagres River. This was once used by the conquistadors to transport gold across the land bridge or Isthmus of Panama and then to Peru. From there the gold was sent to Spain. This same method was also used by gold prospectors seeking a "short cut" from the US East coast to the gold fields of California. Thus, this river was the heart of the colonial inter-oceanic route but has now become a lifeline of the Panama Canal full of wildlife and tropical jungle. Naturally, there is more than just the river and you will get to explore Fort San Lorenzo; located on a cliff at the mouth of the Chagres on the Atlantic side. Here your leader explain the rich history to be discovered in this area, including further details about the Spaniards, their gold routes, and more. Later that evening, the Discovery will return to Colon, where it will spend the night before disembarking the next day. (B, L, D)
Day 7 Portobelo – Caribbean
You last sunrise on board The Discovery! Enjoy a hearty farewell breakfast before you disembark. You will be taken by motor coach to Portobelo and enjoy this historic and unique town. Founded by Christopher Columbus on his fourth voyage to the new continent in 1597, it is rich in history. The location of many sea and land battles between the Spanish colonials and the pirates and corsairs raiding the Spanish Main, it has remnants of the fortifications built by the Spaniards to protect their treasures. We also pay a visit to the Church of San Felipe, the sanctuary of the Black Christ. Later in the day we board the Panama Canal Railway train back to Panama City - considered one of the world's best train rides. Only one hour, the trip will allow you to traverse the picturesque trans-isthmian route from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. Flanking the Panama Canal, it passes through lush rainforests, runs alongside the locks, back through the Gaillard Cut and then glides over slender causeways near Gatun Lake before reaching the city. (B, L)
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch D = Dinner |
NOTE: A southbound journey follows the same exploration route in reverse * Cruise itineraries are subject to wind, tide and weather conditions and are operated at the sole discretion of the provider, in the interests of the safety and welfare of the passengers, vessel, and crew. |
THE SHIP: The Discovery.
Discovery is a 33 meter, purpose built catamaran providing 8 queen and 4 twin cabins. All cabins have individual climate control, bathrooms and huge windows, which extend along the length of the cabin allowing you to enjoy the scenery in complete privacy.
Passenger numbers on The Discovery are limited to just 24, ensuring everyone can enjoy serenity and privacy as well as the excitement and closeness of a true exploration cruise.
The dining area, bar and lounge are located on the middeck which is fitted with floor to ceiling “glass walls” providing a spectacular dining experience and plenty of space to unwind. Enjoy Panamanian haute gastronomy as we delight travelers with delicious indigenous dishes prepared by our talented chef. A BBQ and sun deck are located on the topmost observation deck.
The Discovery is equipped with a unique platform that lowers kayakers gently into the water and also retrieves them in perfect safety and comfort.
THE LEADERS, the experts.
Onboard The Discovery you will find enthusiastic expedition leaders that will provide insight and profound understanding of the adventure we will undertake. They are experienced and well-trained naturalists ready to share their vast knowledge and understanding.
Our expedition leaders also share a love for history and a passion for nature. They will introduce travelers to native human groups that still preserve their customs and traditions, and to a world of stunning natural beauty and rich history unknown and unavailable to most. They are experts in their fields and they will make the journey onboard The Discovery an unforgettable experience.
Technical Information
- TYPE OF VESSEL: CATAMARAN LIVE ABOARD. - BUILT: RICHARDSON DEVINE MARINE CONSTRUCTIONS, HOBART, TASMANIA, AUSTRALIA. - LAUNCHED: DECEMBER 2004. - HULL: MARINE GRADE ALUMINUM. - LOA: 33 MTS. - BEAM: 9.75 MTS. - MAXIMUM LADDEN DRAFT: 1.85 MTS. - MAIN ENGINES: 2 X DETROIT DIESEL MTU SERIES 60, 740 HP. |
- GENSETS: 2 X ISUZU 105 KVA. - CAPACITY: 24 PAX. - MAXIMUM SPEED: 18 KNOTS. - CRUISING SPEED: 15 KNOTS. - CREW CAPACITY: 11. - FRESH WATER STORAGE CAPACITY: 6000 LTS. - FRESH WATER PRODUCTION CAPACITY: 500 LTS/HOUR. - RANGE: 850 NM. |
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE ? All mentioned transportation, rafts or duckies, sea kayak(tandem or single) and related gear, camping gear, guides, trip's meals. Our guides are trained in river and sea navigation skills, first-aid and CPR.
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ? At day tours leave object than can be deteriorated by water or valuables like jewels, cash, credit cards, etc.
PRICES:
$3450 per person. There will be a $250 per person early booking discount if full payment is received by Aventuras Panama 180 days before departure.
CATEGORY |
RATES PER CABIN |
RATES PER PERSON |
CABIN SIZE |
Double Occupancy |
|||
1 |
USD 7,900 |
USD 3,950 |
116 sq ft (11 mts2) |
2 |
USD 8,100 |
USD 4,050 |
133 sq ft (16 mts2) |
Single Occupancy |
|||
1 |
USD 5,925 | USD 5,925 | 116 sq ft (11 mts2) |
2 |
USD 6,075 |
USD 6,075 |
133 sq ft (16 mts2) |
Price includes:
- Transfers of passengers to and from the ship.
- Transportation, shore excursions, and the use of equipment
- All meals, alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages onboard the ship.
- Taxes and port charges.
SEASON:
This package is good year around.
NOTES:
(1) Aventuras Panama reserves the right, at its sole criteria, to exchange program with similar activities or accommodations in case it considers it necessary.
(2) Participants should get familiar and agree with Aventuras Panama Terms and Conditions.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Pacific to Atlantic
- Camino Real de Panama
- Epic story of Conquistadores
- All-inclusive package
- Rainforest Conservation
- Age: 16 and up
- Gateway: Panama city
Trek from Pacific to Atlantic, on a cobblestoned colonial road through the primary rainforest of Chagres & Portobelo National Parks, used by endless mule caravans carrying about 200 tons of silver from Peru and Bolivia a year to the trade fairs of Portobelo, which attracted famous pirate and privateers like Francis Drake
It’s the forgotten precursor of the Panama Canal, where the mix of indigenous, afro-descendent and mestizo population aspires for sustainable way of living and conservation of surrounding rainforests: experience history and be part of local communities quest for sustainability in tropical rainforests.This tour allows the participant to cross the Isthmus of Panama along the original route of the Camino Real, beginning in Old Panama on thePacific Ocean, trekking through the dense jungle of the Alto Chagres to reach Portobelo in the Caribbean. This three-day trekking has expedition character and requires very good physical condition from the participants. The night before departure, we will held a meeting to explain details of expeditions in the jungle, animals, safety, and also what to carry and what not (the trekker carries his day pack, while the tent, food and personal belongings are carried by porters - up to 15 pounds per person). The challenge of this hike is not the altitude, but the humidity and temperature of the tropical climate. Participate in this expedition really allows to experience and appreciate the work of the historical characters like Francis Drake and the unknown drovers of the mule trains, who crossed this road in the past. The first night we spent at a peasant village, where we will better understand their life situation within a national park and the problems of deforestation and conservation. The second day we start hiking the path of the Camino Real, soon we find a well-preserved segment of it in the mountains of the Chagres National Park and enjoy spectacular scenery. The third day we walk mostly in primary forests below old giant trees up to the headwaters of the Rio Boquerón, which pours down its valley over countless waterfalls. The fourth day we arrive finally at Portobelo in the Caribbean Sea, where between the walls of the Spanish fortifications remains the rich heritage of Afro-Caribbean populations.
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ITINERARY
1st day: Arrival to Panama
2nd day: Panama Viejo and Lake Alajuela
3rd day: Camino Real
4th day: Camino Real
5th day: Camino Real
6th day: Isla Grande
7th day: Panama Departure
Includes breakfast
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES PROVIDED
- Tents or Jungle hammocks
- First Aid Kit
- Complete Kitchen equipment with all cutlery, plates, cups
- All denoted breakfast (5), lunch (4) and dinner (3)
- Ground transfers and Lodging
WHO CAN GO ?
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE ALONG ?
Celsius is fine) and your camping mattress (air rest, thermarest or similar)
WHAT SHOULD NOT BE BROUGHT ?
About camp sites
EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST
- Day backpack for personal belongings during the tour
- Clothing: breathable lightweight outdoor clothing such as Columbia (one set of clothes with pants, long sleeved shirt, socks for hiking, a set pants and t-shirt for sleeping, 2-3 sport underpants and 2-3 quick dry-shirts, rain poncho, hat or cap, camping towel.
- Shoes: a pair of comfortable sandals (eg trekking sandals) and a pair of hiking shoes (trekking shoes).
- For overnight: light sleeping bag (up to 18 ° C is sufficient), camping mat (eg Thermarest or similar), if desired inflatable pillow
- Dry-bags to to keep the clothes dry in humid air, small dry-bags or zip-loc for money and documents
- Photography Equipment: camera, enough memory chips, battery/akkus, travel plug and charger
- Hiking or trekking poles
- Other: sunscreen, sunglasses, pocket knife, sewing kit, headlamp, sunburn relief, blister plasters (eg Second Skin), insect repellent, Band Aids.
- Drugs: personal medicines
PRICE:
2 participants USD $ 1,900.00 each
3 participants USD $ 1,575.00 each
4 participants USD $ 1,400.00 each
5 participants USD $ 1,275,00 each
Single Supplement $ 85.00