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Panama
Panama
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Panama

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Panama

Panama MapsOccupying the last section of the Central American isthmus before Colombia in South America, Panama benefits from considerable species overlap, resulting in impressive biodiversity. 

Although best known for that great engineering feat, the Panama Canal, the country  possesses an astonishing array of natural, historical and cultural riches: two extensive coastlines, exuberant coral reefs, little-known castaway islands and deserted beaches, semi-autonomous Amerindian tribes, beautiful colonial architecture and rainforests teeming with a wealth of flora and fauna such as cannot be seen anywhere else in Central America.

Panama's volcanic mountains, coastal plains, virgin rainforests, cloud forests and dry tropical forests are home to myriad plant species, including some 1200 native orchids,  and an enviable amount of wildlife.  A birdwatcher's paradise, Panama boasts around 1000 species of birds including harpy eagle, resplendent quetzal, five macaw species and 52 hummingbirds. Its fauna includes bush dog, jaguar, puma, two and three toed sloth, 350 species of bat, five species of monkey, and an assortment of multi-coloured island-endemic poison dart frogs - evolution in action.

In short, Panama has it all - a promised land of exceptional natural history benefiting from a significant lack of visitors.

When to Go

Panama lies below the hurricane belt and has not experienced appreciable volcanic activity since Baru erupted over 600 years ago. The tropical climate is divided between the wetter 'winter' season (mid-April to December) and the drier 'summer' (mid-December to mid-April), although generally it is wetter on the Caribbean side. Temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year, averaging 80F/27C in the humid lowlands, but becoming increasingly cooler and less humid as one gains altitude.

The "Journey Between The Seas" Cruise

Explore both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts and experience the full Panama Canal transit aboard a very comfortable 108-foot motor catamaran taking only 24 passengers in 12 spacious cabins. Under the care of an Expedition Leader and qualified Naturalist Guide as well as a full crew, the seven-night, eight-day voyage encompasses the Pearl Islands, the Embera tribe of the Darien, the Smithsonian's Barra Colorado Island and the colonial architecture of Portobelo on the Caribbean shore. A great cruise for both wildlife and history. For more details and fixed departure dates, please call us now on 01803 866965.

Panama plays host to an extraordinary mixture of wildlife, culture and history, the best examples of which are combined in this superlative Panama natural history tour.  Enjoy a village stay with the friendly Embera tribe for a chance to see the impressive harpy eagle; take the train to an historical colonial town; discover the exceptional wildlife of the lush rainforests; learn the history of the construction of the amazing Panama Canal; venture into the wild Darien; and end with a Caribbean beach paradise. There is something here for everyone.  Find out more...

An actively adventurous tour designed for intrepid travellers eager to experience the best wilderness Panama can offer, both below and above the sea's surface. Starting with a stay in the dizzy treetop heights of the unique Canopy Tower, go on to explore two very special, remote wildlife-rich regions: deepest Darien National Park for great birding, and the extraordinary forests and marine environment of Coiba Island National Park. Finally, after the wildlife adventures, there is welcome time at a comfortable island resort within the Chiriqui Gulf Marine Park facilitates some well-earned relaxation for a fitting finale to this wonderful Panama wildlife holiday.  Find out more...

A perfect itinerary for nature lovers wishing to experience the natural wonders of Panama at a gentle pace while enjoying some private guiding and a good degree of comfort. Explore wildlife-rich waterways and the Pipeline Road; visit enchanting cloud forests for resplendent quetzal and three-wattled bellbird; finally, enjoy the Caribbean Sea in luxury to round off a tour designed to make your Panama travels that little bit easier and more enjoyable. Find out more...