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Ponant's "Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America" offers an 8-day adventure aboard Le Champlain, designed for English-speaking explorers and complemented by an enriching alliance with Smithsonian Journeys. Sailing from Puntarenas to Colón, the expedition promises encounters with the striking landscapes and vibrant cultures of Panama and Costa Rica. The journey commences in Quepos, where Manuel Antonio National Park's lush jungles and diverse wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds, await exploration. This immersive experience fuses the conveniences of modern amenities with the thrill of traversing pristine natural beauty.
Continuing to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Darién National Park, guests delve into a world of remarkable flora and fauna, spotlighted by interactions with the indigenous Emberá community. The voyage further sets anchor at Fuerte Amador, featuring the architectural wonder of Panama City's Biomuseo and the Punta Culebra Nature Center, both testaments to the region's ecological richness and Smithsonian's scientific endeavours. The passage through the legendary Panama Canal marks a profound transition to the Atlantic, guiding travellers to the idyllic San Blas Islands, where the indigenous Guna people showcase their traditional lifestyle and artisanal crafts amid inviting turquoise waters.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica: Puntarenas, though initially an unimpressive sight when passing by car, is a town rich in character, rooted in its past as a prosperous port town and a principal holiday destination for the affluent citizens of San José. The town, sitting on a narrow sand spit extending into the Gulf of Nicoya, offers a beautifully manicured Blue Flag beach, a public swimming pool, the San Lucas Beach Club, and a marine-life museum. It's a hub for ferries heading to the Nicoya Peninsula and for cruises venturing into the gulf. Visitors enjoy the vibrant bustle of the fish market and the local pastime of cycling. The beachfront promenade, Paseo de los Turistas, lined with shaded benches and seafood restaurants, is a popular place for both Ticos and tourists alike.
Quepos (Puerto Quepos), Costa Rica: Quepos is a gateway to the incredible Manuel Antonio National Park, which promises a unique nature experience while retaining modern conveniences. Only 7 km away from the park, it offers a wide range of services including banks, hotels, restaurants, and even a post office, making it an ideal base for exploration. Once a banana plantation area, the economy now thrives on African palms and the ever-growing tourism. Quepos is particularly famous for its sport fishing, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. Besides fishing, visitors can explore wetlands full of diverse wildlife like crocodiles and monkeys. The area balances nature's allure and modern comfort beautifully.
Darién National Park, Panama: The remote Darién Jungle is renowned for its rich biodiversity, and it's recognised as one of the world’s top ten birdwatching sites. It boasts species such as the Crimson-collared Tanager, Chestnut-fronted Macaws, and Snow-bellied Hummingbirds, along with mammals like tapirs and Black-headed Spider Monkeys. With less than a thousand tourists visiting each year, the park remains a pristine natural wonder, where indigenous groups such as the Embera live in isolation, offering visitors unique handcrafted items in their villages.
Fuerte Amador, Panama: Situated at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador serves as both a modern marina and a historic site. Known for its scenic beauty and strategic location, it's popular among cruise ships as a docking point. The Amador Causeway, built from rocks excavated during the canal creation, connects four small islands to the mainland offering spectacular views of the Panama City skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Its combination of natural beauty, history, and local attractions makes it a fascinating stop.
Panama: Exploring unmentioned territories within Panama will often lead you to discover hidden gems and experiences unique to the region, rich with culture and stunning landscapes. Whether this day includes a journey through the lush rainforests, a visit to a secluded beach, or an encounter with the local culture, each offers an authentic taste of Panamanian life.
San Blas Islands, Panama: The San Blas archipelago, consisting of 365 islands, is governed autonomously by the Kuna people who have maintained their language and culture despite European influences. Of these islands, only about fifty are inhabited, with the Kuna largely living traditional lifestyles. The island of El Porvenir is a key administrative centre, and visitors can enjoy the local crafts like the vibrant molas, intricate textiles crafted by Kuna women. With tourism rising, these artistic creations serve as popular souvenirs for visitors to the islands.
Colón, Panama: Colón, the provincial capital by the Atlantic entrance of the canal, was originally founded in 1850 and named Aspinwall by the Americans. The completion of the Panama railway and subsequent canal projects bolstered its significance. Despite a fire in 1885, Colón was rebuilt in French architectural style, with buildings from that era still standing today. As an essential port city, it houses the world's second-largest duty-free zone, the Zona Libre, primarily catering to commercial businesses. Though the city's infrastructure is aging, it remains a vibrant hub of commerce and history.
We endeavour to ensure that the information provided on our website regarding itineraries and schedules is accurate and up-to-date. Please be aware, however, that this information is offered in good faith and may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.
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