Cruise West Cruises, Between Two Seas, Cruise Vacation Package
Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights Priced From: $3,999 pp Dbl. Occ. Dates: Nov, Dec, Jan - Apr, Oct - Dec Ship: Pacific Explorer Directions: Panama to Costa Rica


Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive In Panama Transfer from the Panama City Airport to Colón on the Caribbean coast to board the Pacific Explorer. D
Day 2 - Portobelo Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1502, this was once one of the richest ports of the Spanish Main until plundered by Henry Morgan in 1668. Enjoy a guided walk in Portobelo and a special performance from Kuna Indians as they pass on their customs through dances and chants. Panamanian crafts, which include the richly embroidered molas handcrafted by the Kuna, can be purchased in the local market. Visit an old Spanish fort and, tides permitting, explore a mangrove forest of the Duarte River by small craft. BLD
Day 3 - Panama Canal Come eye-to-eye with one of the most acclaimed engineering marvels in the world, which employs over 9,000 workers. The canal is over 50 miles long with a minimum depth of 41 feet. Transiting the Panama Canal is an unforgettable experience, especially aboard a small ship like the Pacific Explorer. BLD
Day 4 - Darién Jungle Visit a remote Emberá village tucked away on the coast of the Darién Jungle. The Emberá people open their homes and hearts to welcome Cruise West friends. You will laugh with them, dance with them, and take away cherished lifetime memories. BLD
Day 5 - Coiba National Park A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Coiba National Park consists of 38 islands surrounded by pristine waters. Its abundant sea life makes it one of the top snorkeling locations in the world. For bird watchers, 147 species of birds can be found in Coiba National Park. Our open exploration during these two days may include snorkeling and kayaking at Granito de Oro Island, Coiba Island or Rancheria Island, a visit to the prison ruins at Coiba Island (Panama’s version of Devil’s Island) and guided nature walks at the south end of Coiba, relatively untouched by humans. BLD
Day 6 - Coiba National Park continue
Day 7 - Golfo Dulce Take a guided tour through the beautiful gardens at Casa Orquideas or "Orchid House." Casa Orquideas is a private botanical garden cultivated by long-time local residents, who have lovingly landscaped this homestead for over 20 years. They have amassed a wonderful collection of tropical fruit trees, bromeliads, cycads, palms, heliconias, ornamental plants and more than 100 varieties of orchids. See, smell, and touch a wide variety of beautiful ornamental plants and taste some unusual fruits.
In the afternoon take a walk in search of wildlife. Look for toucans, monkeys and maybe even a snake. If you prefer a quiet afternoon on your own, stay onboard and relax on the Sun Deck. BLD
Day 8 - Corcovado Conservation Area Discover the Corcovado Conservation Area, a pristine rainforest, populated by a number of endangered species including puma, tapir, poison dart frogs, crocodile, jaguar, and marine turtles. It is home to the largest population of scarlet macaws in Costa Rica. Close to 400 species of birds have been seen here. There are also around 140 mammals and over 500 species of trees. Giant trees draped with vines and lianas and supported by massive buttress roots tower over the forest floor. Corcovado is inundated with nearly 20 feet of rain a year and is technically known as a very humid tropical lowland rainforest. Guided hikes will be offered, of varying degrees of difficulty. Lunch is a picnic on the beach, weather permitting. BLD
Day 9 - Manuel Antonio National Park This park was created in 1972 and consists of 3 magnificent white-sand beaches that are backed by a jungle sheltering hundreds of fascinating plant species. Naturalists lead walks to outstanding wildlife viewing. There are over 109 mammal species and 184 species of birds here. Watch for monkeys, iguanas, agoutis, sloth, and the rare turquoise cotinga.
Manuel Antonio offers well-maintained trails where you can explore the jungle on your own or join a walk with one of our naturalists. You may wish to see the small shopping area, relax on the white-sand beach or take a swim. BLD
Day 10 - Arrive Los Sueños / San José Disembark in Los Sueños and transfer and transfer to the San José Airport for your flight home. B
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Contact: Travelwizard.com Phone: 1-800-330-8820 or 1-415-446-5252
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