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Guests explore by zodiac cruise in Portobelo, Panama
National Geographic Quest transiting the Panama Canal at night.
Local dancers preform the Congo Dance of Panama. The most unique and colorful manifestation of folklore in the province of Colon. The dance has its roots in Africa and came to Panama by way of escaped former slaves known as “Cimarrons.”  The dance has been passed on from generation to generation, and can be seen today in the province of Colon, in costal towns such as Portobello where the Afro-Panamanian legacy remains very much alive. Santiago Fortress, Portobelo, Colon, Panama
Green iguana on tree branch
Traditional house of Embera tribe in Panama with Eagle flying above the house. Blue sky with white clouds above, and green garden flowers in front of the house
Guests explore by zodiac cruise in Portobelo, Panama
ExpeditionsThe Panama Canal, Pearl Islands and Darién Jungle

The Panama Canal, Pearl Islands and Darién Jungle

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Embark on our only Central American expedition that travels solely through Panama, connecting you more deeply with the region's wildlife, culture, and famed modern engineering marvel. Aboard the National Geographic Quest, transit the historic Panama Canal by day and by night. Learn about the country’s indigenous and colonial history while visiting local communities and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Encounter monkeys, iguanas, tropical birds, and more as you venture into lush rainforests, a wildlife refuge, and an important national park. In the surrounding turquoise waters, snorkel pristine coral reefs which shelter an array of colorful marine life. 

Highlights

Guests travel through the Panama Canal at night on the ship National Geographic Quest, Panama
  • Transit the legendary Panama Canal—plus enjoy an exclusive stop at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Barro Colorado Island

  • Discover the storied Spanish architecture and fascinating pirate history of Portobelo, a UNESCO World Heritage site

  • Explore Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge and spot sea turtles and black and green iguanas on the beach or while snorkeling offshore

  • Meet the indigenous Emberá people of Darién in Playa Muerto Village and learn about their customs, traditions, and deep reverence for their natural surroundings

  • Sea kayak, hike, Zodiac cruise, and snorkel in the tranquil Pearl Islands, a network of 200 islands known for turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and an enduring connection to the pearl trade

From

$6,889

/ per person

Was $7,389Save $500

Does not include any flights

duration
8 Days
See all offers

View our brochure for more details

Explorations 2024-2026

Talk to an Expedition Specialist1.800.397.3348

From

$6,889

/ per person

Was $7,389Save $500

duration
8 Days

View our brochure for more details

Explorations 2024-2026

From

$6,889

/ per person

Was $7,389Save $500

duration
8 Days
See all offers

View our brochure for more details

Explorations 2024-2026

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Ships

Ship National Geographic Quest

National Geographic Quest

GUESTS 100

CABINS 50

DECKS 4

National Geographic Quest was purpose-built to explore the Americas, her design and engineering informed by nearly 40 years of experience in these regions.

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Expedition Extensions

View of the skyline of Panama City framed by tropical rainforest, Panama
Extension
Pre-Voyage

Panama City & San Lorenzo Pre-Extension

Duration3 Days

Starting from

$1,620

/ per person

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Expedition Team

Over 50+ years of exploring, Lindblad Expeditions’ veteran staff and the quality companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Some join a few expeditions each year to explore the same sites, some of them spending some time in the field away from rigorous academic work. And others lead expeditions all around the world—with many guests saying, “Where you’re going, we’re going,” and returning time after time to travel with them. Browse our team directory to discover the full cast of expedition staff.

Captain Andrew Cook with guests and Staff on the Bridge of National Geographic Venture, Baja California, Mexico

Special Offers

Take advantage of our additional offers

View our brochure for more details

Explorations 2024-2026