This year, book three full-paying guests and bring a fourth person free on select departures!
Book by October 31, 2022. Bookings of three full-paying guests may bring a fourth person for free. Offer applicable only on bookings of two double-occupancy cabins, and second cabin must be in same category or lower as first cabin. Valid on select departures, for new bookings only, subject to availability, not applicable on airfare or extensions, and is not combinable with other offers. Call for details.
Exploring Costa Rica and Panama is a singular experience that combines biodiverse jungle wildlife with an in-depth crossing of the Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering. It is the perfect winter escape. Dense, lush rainforest. Pristine deserted beaches. Monkeys galore. Hike deep into the rainforest; kayak and paddleboard along the shore; take a cool swim in a waterfall pool; snorkel over a coral reef. Opportunities abound to see creatures in their natural environs—both on land and in the sea. Expert local naturalists and photo instructors are with you every step of the way, always giving you choices and expanding your knowledge. Aboard, you can always savor panoramic views from the 100-guest National Geographic Quest. Plus, you’ll get an exclusive chance to visit to Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) Association at Playa Blanca on the Osa Peninsula, where you can assist in data collection and the release of rehabilitated, healthy turtles into the sea.
Venture into remote wilderness: hike among monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds, and explore far from any inhabited places
Transit the Panama Canal over two days to see it by day and in the coolness of night—plus an exclusive stop at the Smithsonian Research Institute
Discover the wild rainforests of Corcovado National Park, which National Geographic dubbed “the most biologically intense place on Earth”
Explore idyllic islands, snorkel over a vibrant coral reef, and take a Zodiac cruise up a wild river
Meet the Emberá people of Panama, who welcome us into their village, and meet others working to protect this eco paradise
Share Costa Rica & Panama Canal Adventure Cruise | Lindblad Expeditions
Costa Rica, Panama & Colombia
Day By Day
Explore coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and idyllic islands. Learn about the abundant wildlife residing here. More avenues for exploration give you the most interesting options. Combine all this wildness with a transit of the legendary Panama Canal—aboard National Geographic Quest. While our route is planned, we will always remain flexible in our approach to take advantage of sightings and opportunities for discovery.
U.S. / San José, Costa Rica / Puerto Caldera / Embark
Upon arrival in San José, transfer by land to
Puerto Caldera and embark our ship National
Geographic Quest. (D)
Day 2
Corcovado National Park
Anchor off the Osa Peninsula to see some of the most pristine lowland rainforest on the Pacific coast. In the environs of Corcovado National Park, swim in waterfall pools, take an optional horseback ride on the coast, or trek through the rainforest for a chance to see four species of monkeys—howler, spider, squirrel, and capuchin. (B,L,D)
Day 3
Golfo Dulce / Osa Peninsula
Enter the mangrove-fringed Golfo Dulce along the southwestern edge of Costa Rica as our nimble expedition ship takes us into the remote upper reaches of this placid bay. Go ashore on the western side of the bay, in the pristine waters of Playa Blanca, on the Osa Peninsula. Head inland to meet and share with inspiring local families living in remote communities and working with cocoa, heart of palm, and sugar cane. Hike mature rainforest or kayak in peaceful waters in Golfo Dulce, the only tropical fiord in the continent. By special arrangement, visit the Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) Association on the Osa Peninsula and assist researchers with data collection and hear presentations by the staff at LAST including a talk by the dedicated researchers, working so hard to positively impact sea turtle conservation. At the end of our visit, we will be invited to participate in the release of rehabilitated, healthy turtles back into the Pacific—a truly poignant moment. In the evening, enjoy drinks ashore and a beautiful sunset. (B,L,D)
Day 4
Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica
As our Golfo Dulce exploration continues by Zodiac, paddleboard and kayak, we encounter Pacific Costa Rica’s dazzling avifauna as we watch for golden-hooded and Cherrie’s tanagers, yellow-throated toucans, fiery-billed aracaris and crimson-fronted and orange-chinned parakeets, constantly chattering in flight above the jungle treeline. The flora is a kaleidoscope of tropical color with bromeliads, heliconias and orchids set against the verdant green of the tropical forest. Later, jump into the cool, refreshing waters of the bay. (B,L,D)
Day 5
Coiba National Park, Panama
The first stop in Panama this morning is at the remote Isla Coiba, one of the many islands of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a penal colony, the island has long been protected and accessible by special permit only. Among its many endemic species are the Coiba Island agouti and the mantled howler monkey, as well as four varieties of sea turtle. Discover rich marine life while snorkeling, go kayaking or hiking, try stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach. (B,L,D)
Day 6
Gulf of Panama Islets / Panama Canal Transit
Today, explore the tiny islets of the Gulf of
Panama by Zodiac or kayak. Here we might
spot frigatebirds, brown pelicans, neotropical
cormorants, and brown boobies. Set sail for
the Panama Canal this afternoon. Stretching
more than 50 miles, the canal was a colossal
engineering feat completed in 1914. It is still
traversed by some 14,000 ships every year.
As cargo ships tend to pass through the canal
during the day, we’ll most likely begin our
crossing at night, when the canal is dramatically
lit. (B,L,D)
Day 7
Gatún Lake / Panama Canal Transit
By special arrangement, National Geographic Quest will anchor in Gatun Lake near the Barro Colorado Nature Monument overnight. Today, choose hikes and Zodiac cruises at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute facility on Barro Colorado Island, or take a boat ride to the mouth of the Chagres River and hike on the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center trails. This evening, continue through the complex lock system of the canal. (B,L,D)
Day 8
Colón / Panama City, Panama / Disembark / U.S.
After breakfast, disembark in Colón and
transfer to the airport in Panama City for your
flight home. (B)
Alternative Route
Explore coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and idyllic islands. Learn about the abundant wildlife residing here. More avenues for exploration give you the most interesting options. Combine all this wildness with a transit of the legendary Panama Canal—aboard National Geographic Quest. While our route is planned, we will always remain flexible in our approach to take advantage of sightings and opportunities for discovery.
Embark
Disembark
Day 1
U.S. / Panama City / Colón / Embark
Upon arrival in Panama City, transfer by land to Colón and embark our ship National Geographic Quest.
Stretching more than 50 miles, the Panama Canal was a colossal engineering feat completed in 1914. It is still traversed by some 14,000 ships every year. As cargo ships tend to pass through the canal during the day, we’ll most likely begin our crossing at night, when the canal is dramatically lit. (D)
Day 2
Gatún Lake/Panama Canal Transit
By special arrangement, National Geographic Quest will anchor in Gatún Lake near the Barro Colorado Nature Monument overnight. Today, choose hikes and Zodiac cruises at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute facility on Barro Colorado Island, or take a boat ride to the mouth of the Chagres River and hike on the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center trails. This evening, continue through the complex lock system of the canal. (B,L,D)
Day 3
Gulf of Panama Islets
Today, explore the tiny islets of the Gulf of Panama by Zodiac or kayak. Here we might spot frigatebirds, brown pelicans, neotropical cormorants, and brown boobies. (B,L,D)
Day 4
Coiba National Park, Panama
We begin our day at the remote Isla Coiba, one of the many islands of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a penal colony, the island has long been protected and accessible by special permit only. Among its many endemic species are the Coiba Island agouti and the mantled howler monkey, as well as four varieties of sea turtle. Discover rich marine life while snorkeling, go kayaking or hiking, try stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach. (B,L,D)
Day 5
Golfo Dulce / Costa Rica
Enter the mangrove-fringed Golfo Dulce along the southwestern edge of Costa Rica as our nimble expedition ship takes us into the remote upper reaches of this placid bay. Exploring by Zodiac, paddleboard and kayak, we encounter Pacific Costa Rica’s dazzling avifauna as we watch for golden-hooded and Cherrie’s tanagers, yellow-throated toucans, fiery-billed aracaris and crimson-fronted and orange-chinned parakeets, constantly chattering in flight above the jungle treeline. The flora is a kaleidoscope of tropical color with bromeliads, heliconias and orchids set against the verdant green of the tropical forest. Later, jump into the cool, refreshing waters of the bay for an afternoon swim. (B,L,D)
Day 6
Golfo Dulce / Osa Peninsula
Go ashore on the western side of the bay, in the pristine waters of Playa Blanca, on the Osa Peninsula. Head inland to meet and share with inspiring local families living in remote communities and working with cocoa, heart of palm, and sugar cane. Hike mature rainforest or kayak in peaceful waters in Golfo Dulce. By special arrangement, visit Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST) Association on the Osa Peninsula and assist researchers with data collection and hear presentations by the staff at LAST including a talk by the dedicated researchers, working so hard to positively impact sea turtle conservation. At the end of our visit, we will be invited to participate in the release of rehabilitated, healthy turtles back into the Pacific—a truly poignant moment. In the evening, enjoy a beautiful sunset. (B,L,D)
Day 7
Corcovado National Park
Anchor off the Osa Peninsula to see some of the most pristine lowland rainforest on the Pacific coast. In the environs of Corcovado National Park, swim in waterfall pools, take an optional horseback ride on the coast, or trek through the rainforest for a chance to see four species of monkeys—howler, spider, squirrel, and capuchin. (B,L,D)
Day 8
Puerto Caldera / Disembark / San José / U.S.
Disembark after breakfast in Puerto Caldera. Drive to the airport in San José for flights home. (B)
Alternative Route
Explore coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and idyllic islands. Learn about the abundant wildlife residing here. More avenues for exploration give you the most interesting options. Combine all this wildness with a transit of the legendary Panama Canal—aboard National Geographic Quest. While our route is planned, we will always remain flexible in our approach to take advantage of sightings and opportunities for discovery.
Costa Rica & the Panama Canal: Natural & Man-made Wonders
Special Offers
Special Offers
FREE ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE ON SELECT DATES
Special Offers
Receive free roundtrip airfare from Miami to San Jose on select departures. Complimentary air is based on economy group flights and must be ticketed by Lindblad Expeditions. In the case that Lindblad's group flight is not available at time of booking, we reserve the right to issue a credit. Baggage fees may be additional. New bookings only and may not be combinable with other offers or pre- or post-extensions. Call for details.
BACK-TO-BACK SAVINGS
Special Offers
Save 10% on any consecutive journeys taken on board one of our expedition ships. This savings is applicable on voyage fares only, and are not valid on extensions or airfare.
BRINGING THE KIDS
Special Offers
We believe sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. So take $500 off for each child under the age of 18.
TRAVELING AS A GROUP
Special Offers
Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more people. Take advantage of these great savings, while enjoying traveling with your friends and family. This savings is applicable to voyage fares only, and is not valid on extensions or airfare. Deposit, final payments, and cancellation policies for group travel vary from our regular policies.
COMBINING OFFERS
Special Offers
Certain offers may be combinable, up to two savings opportunities, except where noted otherwise. For example, travel with a group of 8 or more on back-to-back expeditions, and take advantage of both savings.
4TH GUEST TRAVELS FREE
Special Offers
4th person travels free on select departures. Book by October 31, 2022. Bookings of three full-paying guests may bring a fourth person for free. Offer applicable only on bookings of two double-occupancy cabins, and second cabin must be in same category or lower as first cabin. Valid on select departures, for new bookings only, subject to availability, not applicable on airfare or extensions, and is not combinable with other offers. Call for details.
Extend your stay in Panama City and have a private tour at the Panama Canal Museum at the Miraflores Locks, as well as a former U.S. Army base, Frank Gehry’s BioMuseo, and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the historic Casco Viejo Old Town and the natural beauty and wildlife of the San Lorenzo Protected Area.
Today, National Geographic Quest arrived in the gateway of Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica’s most ecologically intense rainforest. Its diversity is unparalleled. In the morning, our guests enjoyed either a long hike or a walk along the coastline. In both activities, guests spotted scarlet macaws, their colors blazing in the tree canopy. Other tropical birds also displayed extraordinary colors. Among others, we spotted scarlet-rumped tanagers, bay-headed tanagers, and red-legged honeycreepers. We also observed land mammals, including white-nosed coatimundis, on the grounds of the coastal walkway of San Josesito Beach. Later in the afternoon, we repositioned to San Pedrillo, one of the stations of the national park and a highlight of our voyage. The chance to dip into a waterfall pool made every meter of the walk worth it. Along the hike, guests spotted American crocodiles and many types of tropical birds. The importance of this area is demonstrated by the size of its trees. The park, 80% of which is protected, maintains a good balance of the species that inhabit this gorgeous rainforest. The pargo trail was another option for hiking today, and guests enjoyed great sightings of spider monkeys, black-hooded antshrikes, dot-winged antwrens, and rufous pihas. After the afternoon activities, we headed back to the ship. We enjoyed the recap sessions, a great end to this day.
The sun was rising this morning as National Geographic Quest docked in the Port of Golfito. The Standard Fruit Company exported its banana production through the port until the mid-1980s. After this, the company formally began operations in Costa Rica. Ship handling was the main interest of the site, so very little land was used for settlement. Much of the original forest was left in place to guarantee not only the water supply, but also for the delight of those who lived here. After clearing Customs this morning, we went out to explore the mangroves of this beautiful place. Some guests enjoyed Zodiac tours. Other guests desired more exercise, so they observed the mangroves while kayaking. After repositioning the boat inside Golfo Dulce in the afternoon, we explored the trails of Dolphin Quest, a private reserve connected to Piedras Blancas National Park. We observed scarlet macaws, white-faced capuchins, white-lipped peccaries, and several species of small amphibians and reptiles. We were pleased to spot a tree frog called Hyla rosembergii , a species rarely found close to the ground, especially during the day. The day was a success, starting with a beautiful morning and ending with a fantastic sunset.
Once more today, we had the privilege of waking up in this majestic place on the Pacific side of Panama. Coiba National Park is one of the most pristine and diverse national parks on the continent. Its vast marine extension makes it a gem for the wildlife that we encounter living in its array of ecosystems. Cocos Island is without a doubt one of the highlights of our voyage. It is a privilege to go underwater and see one of the most endangered habitats on the planet. We enjoyed the opportunity to observe the coral reef. Now we understand firsthand the threats faced by the reef due to climate change and the resulting conditions that limit its growth. Cocos Island is one of the reef’s hotspots for marine life observation. We observed different schools of fish, sea turtles, and whitetip reef sharks during our snorkel activity. We spent time at the national park’s headquarters, relaxing on the beach and swimming in the beautiful water. The sheltered bay makes for calm and smooth paddleboarding and kayaking. We also organized walking tours around the island. We learned how thousands of years of isolation produced subspecies. Coiba is a World Heritage Site due to the uniqueness of its natural history and the protection of its territory.
Today we awoke in the Gatun Lake, the center of the Panama Canal. It is a large and artificial freshwater lake to the south of Colon, our port of embarkation yesterday. The lake forms the heart of the Panama Canal, carrying ships for their 33 km (21 mi) transit across the Isthmus of Panama. The lake was created between 1907 and 1913 by building the Gatun Dam across the Chagres River. With an area of 425 km2 (164 sq mi) and 26 m (85 ft) above sea level, Gatun Lake was the largest human-made lake in the world when it was created. Gatun Dam was also the largest of its kind. Last night, we were raised those 85 feet from sea level on the Caribbean side of Panama. After crossing the three steps up, our pilot left us anchored just outside the locks. This morning, another pilot took us to the front of the most important research station in the tropical scientific world, BCI, administered by the Smithsonian Institute. From there, we began a great multistep transportation trip. First, we rode on pangas (small fiberglass boats) for 30 minutes to arrive in a small town known as Gamboa, the dredging division of the canal. Then we boarded motor coaches and reached our final destination in about 20 minutes: a pristine tropical rainforest located in one of the largest national parks in Panama, Soberania National Park. The name of this place is the Rainforest Discovery Center. The center offers well-manicured trails, a balcony with hummingbird feeders and a 100-foot metal tower that allowed us to see the canopy of the rainforest. Luckily, we spotted a variety of animals, including monkeys, sloths and many tropical birds. After all guests were back onboard, we calmly waited for our third pilot to take us through the rest of the amazing engineering marvel of the Panama Canal. The rescue of a sloth by naturalist Maguil was the cherry on the cake. Maybe the sloth fell down from a tree, and strong winds took the poor animal away from shore. Sloths can swim better than walking on land, but it was too far from shore in this case. The wind was taking the sloth farther into the canal’s waterway where large container ships pass, so it was lucky that we spotted it.
After cruising a whole 190 nautical miles last night, we entered the Gulf of Panama. This will eventually lead us to our final destination, the Panama Canal. However, before that, we had the chance to explore a small island trio a mere 22 miles south from the Port of Balboa. The Gulf of Panama is famous for its rich waters, created by an upwelling that comes by during the windy months of December through early March. Northeasterly trade winds blow during these months, creating rich productivity in the area. In the process known as upwelling, water rises from below the ocean bottom to replace the water moving away from shore. As warm surface waters are moved away, cold water full of nutrients rises from the bottom. This allows for an abundance of food for plankton and small fish, which attracts bigger fish. The bigger fish attract seabirds and even larger marine mammals such as dolphins and whales. We got the chance to experience the phenomenon this morning via our trusty Zodiacs, and out we went to look at plants, birds and maybe dolphins. What a day – we will take it! As we entered the Gulf of Panama early this morning, we witnessed very strong winds, birds overflying our vessel and the long awaited pantropical dolphins. However, the most amazing sight was the full moon of Aquarius setting behind Bona Island while the sun came out over the flat Pacific horizon. Those of us up and out that early had a great time and took the photos of a lifetime. All of this before 6:00 in the morning! After breakfast, we took a Zodiac ride and enjoyed great views of magnificent frigatebirds, brown and blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, neotropical cormorants and even quite a large pod of pantropical spotted dolphins. Food productivity attracts these species, providing them with resources to reproduce and boast successful reproductive rates. Birds and marine mammals are attracted to this productivity, and human fishing activity also peaks for the same reason. Local fishermen from the small island of Otoque venture out in small dugout canoes, hoping for good luck and some income. Directly after our interesting morning outing, our captain weighed anchor and directed us north. Heading toward the entrance of the Panama Canal was a highlight for everyone. Once our pilot arrived, our transit began by going under the bridge of the Americas, into the Miraflores locks—the first of two sets of locks that rise up to the level of the channel of the canal—and finally through the Culebra Cut. This brought us into Gatun Lake, leading us into tomorrow’s final adventure.
Exploring the Caribbean Coast | A Uniquely In-Depth Canal Transit | Experience Two of the Most Biodiverse Countries on Earth | Rewarding Encounters With the People of Paradise
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