Travel Impressions Vacation Packages

Pipeline Road Birdwatching Tour from Gamboa

Join us on a morning hike through Soberania National Park as you observe a variety of exotic tropical birds while enjoying he surrounding trees and plants of this area. Pipeline Road, where our hike takes place, is a dirt road that goes through the heart of this national park and affords us views of some of the diverse bird life that abounds in the area. Pipeline road has for several years in a row; set world record bird counts in a 24-hour period - up to 367 different species of birds. Some of the more common sights are the Slaty-tailed Trogon, Keel-billed Toucan, Thick-billed Mot-Mot, and several species of ant birds, wrens, tanagers and flycatchers. Of course, just because this tour focuses on observing the bird life, it does not mean that you might not hear or even see Howler monkeys or other mammal life like sloth, anteaters and agoutis.

Gamboa Aerial Tram and Ecological Exhibits

Experience the verdant rainforest of Gamboa from within, ascending some 280 feet from the shadowy forest floor, through the dense undergrowth and up to the sun drenched canopy with its thousand shades of green that are only interrupted by the vibrant colors of flowering trees. Colorful birds and butterflies are abundant here, and you might also encounter sloth tor white-faced capuchin monkeys and hear the howler monkey cry out in the distance. Once at the top, you will have the opportunity to climb our observation tower (also accessible for wheelchairs) from where you will have uninterrupted views of the vast rainforest of Soberania National Park while at the same time watch the giant cargo ships maneuver through the Galliard Cut (the narrowest part of the Panama Canal). Throughout this adventure n the jungle our well-trained guides will be at hand to explain and enhance your encounters. You will then continue to our interpretative exhibits of native flora, fauna and culture with highlights such as a model Embera village, butterfly and orchid exhibit and displays of aquatic life and reptiles.

Panama City and Canal Tour (Half Day)

Our day will start at the Miraflores locks, located at the Pacific entrance to the Canal where our expert guide will let you in on the secrets and histories surrounding the building of the Canal while you experience this magnificent architectural masterpiece and have a breathtaking view of the ships transiting through the 8th wonder of the world.

The trip then takes to the city, where you will be able to experience not only the banking capital of Central America but also the beauty of the colonial city of Panama. We will visit the "Causeway", a leisure paradise with shopping, restaurants and bars that offers spectacular views of the modern city and its skyscrapers. Across the bay we will find a contrast in the oldest sector of the city, which was founded in 1673, and named the Casco Antiguo. This place has a charming mixture of colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and ethnic diversity. UNESCO recently named this area "World Heritage Site". It contains a wealth of history in its churches, museums and streets carefully restored to their former colonial beauty and is also home to the Presidential Palace, the National Theatre, the 17th century Church of the Golden Altar, Las Bovedas, church of San Fransisco, the National Cathedral, the Independence Square and much more. Before returning there will also be an opportunity to visit a local handicraft market, where an array of native art and craft is on offer.

Panama City and Canal Tour (Full Day)

The Full Day City and Canal Tour will give a detailed focus on the most relevant sites of Panama City and the Panama Canal Area. Participants will have the opportunity to do a walking tour at the Casco Viejo section, walking past monuments such as the Plaza Bolivar, the San Francisco de Asis Church, Bolivar Palace and the National Theater; "Las Bovedas Promenade", with one of the most spectacular views of Panama City. This tour will also include a visit to the Panama Canal Museum.

Shopping Tour in Panama City

Panama has been known since the Colonial era as one of the best places in the Americas for trading and shopping. Panama City is a strategic point for the transportation of merchandise from all over the world, as a result our city turns into a live Shopping Area, bringing the opportunity to tourists from all over the world to buy goods ranging from Japanese and Korean electronics, Persian carpets, Indian linen to Italian and French fashion and much more; everything at the best prices. Don't miss the chance to know why Panama is a world-famous Shopping Destination!

Panamanian Folkloric Show

Panama has been considered since years ago as "The Crossroad of the World". Many cultures (Spaniards, Africans, Indians) widely influenced our culture and this is clearly appreciated in our food, our music, dances and just the way we are.

Experience all this elements representative of our culture, together in one place: in Las Tinajas Restaurant, a totally and authentic Panamanian Restaurant where you will enjoy a delicious Panamanian food, and will move on your chair at the rhythms of the Panamanian "repicadores, pujadores & guiro (Panamanian folkloric instruments) while you are amazed by the display of beautiful and elegant "Polleras", our national dress and one of the most spectacular folkloric dresses in the world.

Dinner at Las Tinajas Restaurant and cover charge for Folkloric Show (Welcome Tinajas Cocktail, assorted appetizers, main course, dessert, tea or coffee).

Kayaking on the Chagres River

Kayak the historic Chagres River, where hundreds of "49ers" floated on their way to California during the Gold Rush. Dramatic rainforest scenery and lush aquatic vegetation combine with the raucous calls of water birds. Close to the shore's edge, observe toucans feeding in a forest tree or iguanas sunning themselves high in the canopy. Regardless of the time of year, tropical waters are a comfortable temperature.

Shopping Tour in Colon Duty Free Zone

Panama continues its centuries old tradition of being a magnet for commerce. Port activity has continued unabated from the times of Portobello's market heyday.

Today's shipping traffic through Panama ensures any buyer access to an international variety of goods from Asia and Europe, as well as the United States and Canada.

An important aspect of shopping in Panama is the low prices visitors will find. Low import duties and duty free area make Panama a veritable crossroads of goods from the world over. The creation of Colon's Free Zone during the 1940´s further enhanced the country's appeal for its market prices. The Zone aided in firmly establishing Panama's place in the world market scene. Tourist and businessmen coming to Panama will definitely get the best deals at Colon Free Zone.

Portobelo Historical Tour

This tour will start with a land or train transit from the breaking waves of the Pacific Ocean to the calm waters of the Caribbean. Once we turn off the main road between Panama City and Colon and head towards Portobelo, we will enter a green landscape with dramatic hills where the "campesinos" (Spanish for farmers) ride their horses and tend their cattle. Portobelo is a sleepy bayside town full of colonial history where you will feel transported back in time. Here, you will encounter no less than 5 colonial fortifications where the canons are still pointing their mouths towards the bay they once protected. Portobelo is also home to the statue of the Black Christ, which according to the legend possesses divine powers that has several times prevented the statue from being removed from here. Other monuments of interest are: The Custom House (counting house) built in 1640 and the Hospital Chapel built in the year 1597.

Old City Distric and Panama City

Panama City is a vibrant, cosmopolitan and beautiful city, Capital of the Republic of Panama, and located at the Pacific side of the American Continent. Built in 1519 by Pedro Arias Davila, a Spanish Governor, it as been considered as on of the most important cities of the Americas. During this tour, participants will have the opportunity to visit the most interesting places of the old city, like: Casco Viejo: The oldest sector of modem Panama City, founded in 1673, it is known as the Casco Viejo. This beautiful little area has several attractions that tourist shouldn't miss and can easily cover in a walking tour of a few hours. A monument to the French entrepreneurs who began the Panama Canal stands at the bayside end of the Casco Viejo. There is also an adjacent art museum in the converted strong house, known as Las Bovedas, once used for storing gold. Other points of interest are the famed flat arch or Santo Domingo Church, the beautiful gold- plated altar of the San Jose Church, the Panama Canal Museum, the National Theater, the National Cathedral, the Presidential Palace and other numerous colonial churches and monuments. Participants will have the opportunity to do a walking tour at the Casco Viejo section, walking by monuments such as the Plaza Bolivar, the San Francisco de Asis Church, Bolivar Palace and the National Theater; "Las Bovedas Promenade", with one of the most spectacular views of Panama City.

Panama City: is a vibrant, cosmopolitan and beautiful city, Capital of the Republic of Panama, and located at the Pacific side of the American Continent. Built in 15 19 by Pedro Arias Davila, a Spanish Governor, it has been considered as on of the most important cities of the Americas.

Mireflores Locks

The Panama Canal is known as the 8th wonder of the world. It is approximately 50 miles long between the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. During our visit to this engineering marvel, we will get the chance to see the Canal gates of Miraflores Locks. The locks function as water lifts: they raise ships from sea level (the Pacific or the Atlantic) to the level of Gatun Lake (26 meters above sea level); ships then sail the channel through the Continental Divide. On January, 2004, The Panama Canal Authority inaugurated the Miraflores Visitors Center (MVC) as their new expression of the permanent commitment of the Panama Canal Authority to strengthen the public's knowledge of the Canal. With a total area of 18,000 m2 (a closed area of 6,000 m2 and 12,000 m2 of open area), the MVC is located on the East side of the Miraflores Locks. The exhibitions include historical objects of Canal operations, interactive modules, video presentations, and models of the Panama Canal. Four exhibition halls, organized by themes, constitute the heart of the MVC. The following is a brief description of each exhibition hall:

Exhibition Hall 1: Canal History.
It portrays the background, technological innovations, and sanitary initiatives that went hand in hand with the construction of the Canal. This exhibition hall honors the hundreds of men and women who made this achievement possible.

Exhibition Hall 2: Water: Source of Life.
It emphasizes the importance of water, conservation of the environment, protection of the Canal Watershed, and the diversity of fauna and flora. It underscores the ACP's commitment to the sustainable management of this resource and the interoceanic region.

Exhibition Hall 3: The Canal in Action.
This exhibition hall depicts in an amusing manner how the Canal operates and allows us the experience of being inside a navigation simulator and one of the lock culverts. This exhibition showcases Canal improvement, modernization, and maintenance projects.

Exhibition Hall 4: The Canal of the World.
This hall provides information on the importance of the Canal to world trade, describes the trade routes it serves and the main commodities, identifies its main users, and allows visitors to get acquainted with the different types of vessels that transit the waterway. In addition, it presents some of the criteria studied to guarantee the future competitiveness of the Canal and benefits to the Republic of Panama.

The Center also features a 182-seat theater and state-of-the-art technology, three observation terraces, two snack bars, and a restaurant with panoramic views, a gift shop, and a hall for special events. Most areas are available for rent.

All enclosed areas are centrally air-conditioned and the new building boasts an Intelligent Building Management System that regulates the building's temperature, humidity, lighting, and alarm system.

The facility, formerly known as the Miraflores Visitors Pavillion, has been integrated into the new MVC, making it possible for visitors to see a full vessel lockage.

El Valle De Anton

2 hours drive through the rural villages and rolling green hills west of Panama City is the picturesque town of El Valle, nestled in the crater of a giant extinct volcano. To enter the crater, we will pass over its edge with spectacular views over this fertile, mountainous area. It is a tranquil town, surrounded by lush forests and jagged peaks with sparkling creeks adding further to the beauty of the valley. Situated at 1000m above sea level, El Valle enjoys a fresh and cool climate and is known as the land of eternal spring. We will visit beautiful waterfalls framed by dense jungle in Chorro El Macho, marvel at the abundance of native tropical animals, bird and flora at the Níspero Botanical Gardens and Zoo and try to solve the riddle of the pre-Columbian petroglyphs at La Piedra Pintada, which to this date no archaeologist have been able to explain. And last, but by no means least, a visit to the famed Sunday handicraft market to which the Indian artisans bring their wares. Among the items are beautifully carved hardwood trays, elaborate figurines carved from local soapstone, Panama hats, colorful baskets woven by the Wounaan and the Kuna women's remarkable molas.

Canopy Tour in Portobelo

Originally developed by scientists to study the bio-diversity found in the canopy of trees, the method involved rigging large trees with climbing gear, cables, ladders, ect. By means of this gear, biologists were able to swing from one tree to another, over chasms and water, to study larger areas of the forest. They also discovered it was ALOT of fun!

Now a days, several canopy tours have been developed around the world, with Canopy Rio Piedras being the only one in the Panamanian Atlantic coast only 80 minutes from Panama City. This program allows anybody to rise to the top of the trees and switch on the adrenaline, as you swish through the air from one gigantic tree to another..and unlike Tarzan..in complete safety.

Once at the Canopy site, a knowledgeable guide will assist you in dawning the harnesses and safety equipment and will give you a thorough explanation of how to behave, what to expect and how to make the most of your experience.

Once ready, hook your harness to the cable and look: you are flying!!! The series of platforms are sometimes located over 100 feet high and up to 450 feet apart, enough to wake you up!

Panama Canal Partial Transit

Our tour starts at the Flamenco Resort and Marina. Passengers board motor coaches for a 45 minute ride to the town of Gamboa where the Panama Canal Dredging Division is located. Once in Gamboa, passengers board the Boat to start the water portion of the tour. We enter the canal at the north end of the Gailard cut, where the Chagres River flows into the canal. The Gaillard Cut (also known as Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake) is one of the main points of interest for visitors because it was carved through the Continental Divide and this section of the Canal is full of history and geological value. The vessel will travel the Cut's 13.7 kilometers on the way to Pedro Miguel Locks.

Before reaching the Pedro Miguel Locks at the southern end of the Cut, you will be able to view the new Centennial Bridge which crosses over the Canal. Next, we will enter Pedro Miguel Locks, which is one of the two sets of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is lowered 9 meters in one step. You will then enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Pedro Miguel from Miraflores Locks, the latter being the final set of locks before reaching the Pacific Ocean. At Miraflores Locks the vessel is lowered 18 meters in two distinct steps.

Once in the Pacific Ocean the vessel will sail to the beautiful Flamenco Marina where passengers disembark. On the way to Flamenco, you will pass under the Bridge of the Americas, and later, you will be able to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City's splendorous skyline. The whole experience could take from 6 to 8 hours (according the Panama Canal Authority's decision), depending on the traffic and the itinerary for that day.

Panama Canal Full Transit

Our trip departs from the Flamenco Marina, and you will travel from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean on the same day. You will experience all that is mentioned above in the partial transit tour description but in the other direction. In addition, you will enjoy a trip through Gatun Lake, which was formed by erecting the Gatun Dam across the Chagres River.

During your transit through Gatun Lake you will pass the Smithsonian Research Station at Barro Colorado. You will also experience the Gatun Locks, which are the only set of locks in the Atlantic sector. In Gatun Locks, the vessal will be lowered a total of 26 meters in three distinct chambers. Upon arriving at Colon, you will disembark at Pier 6, where transportation back to Panama City will be provided.

The whole experience will take from 10 to 11 hours (according to the Panama Canal Authority's decision), depending on the traffic and the itinerary for that day.

Embera Indigenous Village (This trip is truly paradise found in its purest form!)

The enchanting journey takes us deep into the dense jungles of Chagres where the Emberá Indians have lived for centuries. Our adventure begins with a one-hour ride up the river in dugout canoes, the Emberá traditional, hand carved boats. During this tranquil journey through the lush rainforest, alive with sounds and radiant flora and fauna, we will negotiate rapids and cross the 25 square kilometer lake Alajuela where the first vestiges of human presence on the Isthmus were found (dating back 11,000 years).

Upon arrival to the village you will be taken back in time as you are immersed in the ancient Emberá cultural dances and music that have not changed much since Columbus arrived in the 1500´s. The Indians will invite visitors to explore the area's abundant variety of birds and wildlife during a trek that takes you through the untouched jungle and past sparkling waterfalls. During our visit, the Emberás will give you a glimpse into their mystical rituals and amazing knowledge of medicinal plants and other natural remedies. The Emberá women are known as one of the world's finest basket makers, and you will be able to watch them create these beautiful objects made out of palm leaves and dyed with natural dyes. You can also have your body painted with the natural fruit dye called Jagua, used by the Indians for body decorations as well as for its health-giving properties. Before returning back to civilization, the Indians will offer us a traditional meal of fresh fish and plantains and you will have an opportunity to purchase some of their beautiful handicraft.

Chiriqui River Rafting

Largely unknown and unexplored by the traveler, the country of Panama has now become an outstanding destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Serving as the vital land bridge uniting the Americas, and joining two oceans with its infamous waterway, Panama has evolved to host a splendid diversity of plant, animal, geography and culture that astounds the nature lover, beckons the scientist, and challenges the adventurer. As one of the companies geared at providing a peek into this enchanting land, Chiriqui River Rafting promises you unforgettable memories down some of the most exciting and exotic rivers in a hidden tropical paradise called Panama.

Bajo Mendez Section - Class III and IV. This section has been rated as a class III and some rapids as class IV. The Bajo Mendez Section is quite wide and is therefore more "forgiving" since there are usually plenty of courses through which to maneuver the raft. Here your margin of error is slightly more than on the Palon Section of the Chiriqui Viejo. Do not be fooled however, since the Bajo Mendez has been hailed by many of our customers as simply awesome. Trip length is anywhere from 3-5 hours depending on the water levels which fluctuate from rain to rain. The Martillo (hammer), Australiano, Culebra, and Bajo Mendez, are just a few of the many falls that the rafter will encounter.

Barrigona Section - Class II and III. For those interested in a lighter version of the Bajo Mendez, the Barrigona Section offers mild class II and few class III rapids. A shorter trip, the Barrigona gives the rafter two and a half hours of calmer rafting and vistas of Chiriqui's scenic stretch of plains and gentle rolling hills. Perfect for the beginner, for families and those with an eye for birdwatching.

NOTE: Both sections are usually run during the rainy months of May to about mid-December when they are flowing at their best. During the dry season (December to early May) the river levels drop and the sections become almost too dry to run.

Rio Chiriqui Viejo
This River meanders along the Panamanian-Costa Rican border and is not as easy to access as the Rio Chiriqui but rafters are treated to a spectacular drive that certainly makes up for car time. While driving higher and higher up to the put in, rafters will get to take in beautiful scenes of virgin and untouched rain forest corridors and breath-taking views of the Volcan Barú and its surrounding hills. At one point your vehicle is so high that below you on one side of the road, Costa Rica's rows of teak plantations can be made out while directly on the other side, dense and wild rain forest blankets much of the Panamanian countryside. Certainly a beautiful drive to take whether you are rafting or not.

Palon Section - Class III\+ and IV*. The Palon Section (literally "big stick") of Chiriqui Viejo river is a class III\+ and IV where non stop excitement, pristine tropical forest, and even a picturesque 30 foot waterfall are a combined treat for any rafter. Considerably narrower than its counterpart and dropping at a faster speed, the Viejo requires quick, tight maneuvering to get through the many rock gardens and enormous boulders and delivers continuous white water that contribute to its class IV ranking. Trips on the Palon Section take approximately 3 ½ - 4 hours to complete.

*Rafters on the Palon Section will have to hike about 20 minutes down to reach the river while our guides find ingenious ways to get our 100\+lb rafts down to the put in. This is a down hill hike and therefore not a demanding on the average person.

Sabo Section - Class II and III. This section of the Viejo is a fun ride where plenty of high and deep wave trains provide continuous excitement. Ranked as a class II with several class III rapids, the Sabo section is also a great place for birding. Kingfishers, Cormorants, and Egrets are common sights down the Sabo section of the Viejo. Great for the beginner and for those simply looking for less technical river sections.

Monkey Island Boat Tour

After an exhilarating 20-minute ride at high speed right through the heart of the Panama Canal, the boat will slow down and enter the labyrinth of jungle-covered islands of Lake Gatun. In this protected area the wildlife is plentiful, and you are likely to encounter capuchin monkeys, 3-toed sloth, howler monkeys, various kinds of toucans and other bird life as well as caimans, crocodiles, turtles and a wealth of butterflies. Our trained naturalist guides will ensure that you have an outstanding nature experience by tracing the wildlife as well as educating you about it and its habitat throughout this exceptional jungle and canal adventure.

Nocturnal Wildlife Observation Tour

Luminescent pair of eyes reveals scores of reptiles hunting after dark along the edges of the river and Gatun Lake. Two protected species, the crocodile and the caiman, populate local water. Reptiles are not the only stars of this nocturnal adventure.

Calls of the nightjar (a whippoorwill cousin) and frogs echo over the still water. Bats snatch insects from the sky or dive to the water's surface for a quick drink. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the nocturnal sights and sounds of the waterfront.

Sport Fishing on Gatun Lake

The Chagres River offers some of the best freshwater sport fishing in the world. Feel the excitement as you hook on the three main sport fish, peacock bass, snook or tarpon. Chose from 3 hour fishing tour or 6 hour fishing tour.

PaFinca Hartmann Birdwatching and Coffee Tour

Finca Hartmann is a small family farm owned and operated by Ratibor Hartmann and his sons and daughter. The land use is predominantly shade grown coffee, under towering remnant rainforest trees, and intact premontane highland forest that serves as a buffer zone to Parque Internacional La Amistad. At elevations around 4000-6000 ft., there are a number of accessible dirt roads that pass through many habitat types that are excellent for birding, hiking and exploring.

They are interested in attracting more birders and nature enthusiasts there because of the risk involved with operating their farm predominantly with but one crop. Rather than convert their land to cattle pasture or sun coffee, the Hartmann family wishes to diversify into other environmentally sustainable business activities, such as environmental tourism, that will help protect their magnificent surroundings. They have an excellent location and variety of habitats to find birds including many Neo-Tropical migrants and a number of the endemic birds of the region. During the Christmas Bird Count of 1996 with six observers, 190 plus spp. were found in the area, though over 280 spp. have been detected in total.

Biking Tour in Boquete

Boquete is a perfect spot for mountain biking. Some of the areas you can ride through are Lino, Arco Iris, Jaramillo, Volcancito, Alto y Bajo Quiel and lots others. You will encounter rivers, waterfalls, incredible views and much more. In this tour you would enjoy a 25 kilometer downhill biking trip, coasting through lush vegetation and local coffee farms. A great way to experience the region's spectacular scenery!

Hiking Tour in Boquete

A hikers dream: Alto Quiel, Bajo Quiel, Bajo Mono, Sendero de los Quetzales, Bajo Boquete, Volcan Bani, Bajo Lino, Pianista, Arco Iris, Bajo and Alto Volcancito...with waterfalls, rivers, lots of trails, jungle, monkeys, birds, coffee plantations, breathtaking sights..tons of options, all full of adventure and beauty.

There are good photographic opportunities. Along the path you can meet: hamming birds, squirrels, deer, snakes, spiders, butterflies, frogs, caterpillars and armadillos.

Horseback Riding in Boquete

Boquete, a flower filled mountain valley at the foot of the 10,500 ft. extinct volcano Volcan Baru, boosts a near perfect climate, panoramic mountain views, coffee farms, waterfalls, great hiking and a picturesque small town ambience.

Imagine being able to horseback ride in the middle of the mountains, crossing the rivers and appreciating the beautiful scenarios..just like in some commercials. Here in Boquete you can do exactly that. Horseback riding here takes place along mountain paths that provide riders with sweeping vistas of the Boquete valley.

SporBoquete Canopy Adventure

Glide through the treetops of century-old forests, high above the pristine rivers and waterfalls that make up the incredible collection of natural landscapes bordering La Amistad National Park and the famous Baru Volcano.

Who would have thought that a technology utilized hundreds of years ago by our indigenous people and later perfected by botanists and naturalists to observe and study the behaviors of wild creatures in their natural habitat, would be transformed into one of the most revered extreme sports? A harness, an ultra- resistant steel cable ane gravity are the only elements necessary to suspend and propel the "fearless rider" in this incredible "adrenaline rush".

Dolphin Bay Coral Cay and Red Frog Beach

Depart early in the morning from Isla Colon to start an adventure around one of the most beautiful Archipelagos around the Caribbean: Bocas del Toro. You will be impressed of the crystal clear waters that surround these island and will fall in love with the Caribbean cultural of its inhabitants.

You will visit during this tour the Dolphin Bay, which is the main point for dolphin watching and there are big changes to enjoy being in contact with the dolphins in their natural environment.

The adventure will continue with the visit to Coral Cay, which is a lovely reef with lots of fish, corals and lobster. Coral Cay has a rustic restaurant made of wood on the sea, where you can delight the real Bocas Del Toro homemade seafood. After enjoying the delicious Bocas cuisine, you may jump out from your table to the sea and do snorkeling.

Red Frog Beach, the name comes from the rare species of frog named Dendrobates Pumilio which is abundant in this place. After a little walk in the middle of the jungle you will find one of the most beautiful and largest beaches in Bocas del Toro's Archipelago: The Red Frog Beach.