This adventure is based in central Panama and the Caribbean coast, in and around the canal area. This area has been preserved to supply water to the Panama canal, and much of it is designated as a park, so the area contains some of the best protected forests in the country. Sea kayak on inland lakes and the Caribbean Sea, mountain bike on trails through lowland tropical forests, hike through unique above-ground caves, and explore on foot through deep tropical forests to visit waterfalls and other exotic locations.
Starting from Panama City, we値l head southeast along the canal. Our first stop will be the Chagres River. This area is reknowned for its wildlife, including howler and spider monkeys, tapirs, and jungle cats, as well as a huge diversity of tropical birds, and we値l paddle and hike to explore remote areas to see as many as possible. We値l spend a morning mountain biking rugged trails, and then it痴 back to the water to explore and paddle Gatun Lake and its wild islands, waterfalls, and wildlife, and meet some subsistence farmers over a meal. The journey then leads to an Embera Indian Village, on a short boat trip up-river through beautiful forests. Along the way, we値l stop for short side hikes to waterfalls and other sites of interest. We値l stay overnight in the Indian village. Next, for a truly unique experience, we値l do a half-day hiking exploration of the above-ground caves at Caimitillo. The last portion of our adventure leads us to the Caribbean coast and historic Portobelo, the
center of merchant activity in the Americas during Spanish colonial times. We値l have a relaxing day exploring the historic forts and Spanish ruins, paddling to a remote beach, and snorkeling over coral reefs. Finally, we値l head back to Panama City for our last afternoon and evening, and a choice for the group of several options, ranging from a visit to Central America痴 only tropical rainforest within city limits, biking the Amador Causeway, touring the Panama City Zoo, or shopping in the traditional market.
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Activities: sea kayaking, snorkeling, mountain biking, hiking, swimming, waterfalls.
