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Panama

Expedition / Golden Pathway / Indigenous Trail / Journey / Walking
San Blas Kayaking / Romance / Family / Canopy Tower / Canopy Lodge / Expedition Cruise

Panama Expedition - 7 Days/ 6 Nights

Begin your stay in Panama with a visit to an Embera community in Chagres National Park, where you will have to opportunity to learn about their ancient and fascinating way of life. Then travel to El Valle, a charming mountain town in the crater of an extinct volcano high above the Panamanian Pacific coast. Finally, you will be one of few people to stay in the San Blas Islands, the autonomous region of the Kuna Indians. This affordably priced expedition includes some of Panama’s most interesting Amerindian cultures.

*Arrival on Fridays

Day 1: Arrive in Panama
Arrive at Panama International Airport, where you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel in Panama City. Check in and overnight at the hotel of your choice.

Day 2: Chagres National Park/Indian Village
After breakfast visit a paradise found in its purest form. This tour leaves your hotel at 8:00 AM and begins with 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 a forest with a local indigenous guide who is an expert at explaining botanical novelties and the culture of this authentic Chocoe-Embera tribe. In the village, the Embera will share their culture through dances, rituals, food, etc. You will have the opportunity to partake in "jagua", body painting with vegetable ink. Arrival back to your hotel estimated at 4:00 PM. (BL)

Day 3: El Valle Mountain Town
This excursion begins early in the morning 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. According to geologists, El Valle is the crater of a dormant volcano, probably the largest in Central America. The cool and pleasant climate in this picturesque valley rises approximately 730 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. Upon arrival, visit the Sunday Indian Market where large selections of native and national handicrafts are on sale. The tour continues with a visit to the ancient petroglyphs of the El Chorro Macho Waterfall and other areas of intrest. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Panama City in the late afternoon. (BL)

Day 4: San Blas Islands
Depart from your hotel early in the morning to take a 25-minute flight to Porvenir airstrip on Panama’s Atlantic Coast. Transfer by motorized dugout canoe to Nalunega Lodge. You will visit the Kuna Indians Island, who maintain their culture virtually untouched including their traditions and their beautiful beaches. The Lodge has outside fresh water showers and toilets. Lunch and dinner will feature delicious San Blas seafood. Tour to a deserted island to relax on the beach (BLD)

Day 5: San Blas Islands
Rent (or bring your own) snorkeling gear and explore the beautiful living reefs in San Blas. You can also tour a neighboring island and swim in crystal clear waters. Relax on white-sand beaches or in a hammock under the palms. (BLD)

Day 6: Panama City
Early morning return from San Blas for your flight back to Panama City. Your afternoon will be free for relaxing and shopping. In the evening enjoy the folkloric show and dinner at Tinajas Restaurant. Spend the night at a hotel in the city. (BD)

Day 7: Depart Panama
Transfer to the international airport approximately two hours before your scheduled departure time.

Prices per person in US$:

(low season = May 15-Nov. 15 2008)
rates valid till Nov. 15, 2008
child = 3-11 years

Program includes:
* meet and greet upon arrival
* 6 nights lodging
* private air-conditiooned transportation throughout tour
* meals as specified
* entrance fees to national aprks and other attractions, as speicified
* English-speaking guide
* domestic flights
* information kit
* lodging and indigenous taxes

Program does not include:
* optional activities
* international airfare and taxes
* departure taxes ($20 per person for Panama)
* meals not specified
* alcoholic beverages
* personal equipment
* extras in hotels and gratuities