Central America

Central America is a meeting place of continents and oceans, where volcanic landscapes rise above lush rainforests and jungle rivers flow toward coral-rich seas. Aboard a nimble expedition ship, venture beyond traditional ports to explore protected islands and remote reserves by Zodiac, kayak, snorkel and on foot. Naturalists and undersea specialists reveal the region’s extraordinary wildlife, from monkeys and tropical birds to vibrant reef life.

Transit the Panama Canal over two days, seeing its locks at eye level by day and illuminated after dark. Walk research trails at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute on Barro Colorado Island, search for wildlife in Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula and snorkel in Coiba National Park. Through special access and longstanding relationships with local researchers, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the people and projects protecting this remarkable region.