Dates
Overview
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea lies Costa Rica and Panama, where verdant rainforests are alive with rare flora and fauna, tropical islands are primed for exploration, and the Panama Canal awaits your once-in-a-lifetime crossing. Join our guides on a journey where you will hike through lush jungle, watching for colorful macaws and hummingbirds, and capricious squirrel monkeys in the canopy above you. Investigate the multi-colored coral reef by snorkel. Navigate the beautiful and secluded island coves by skiff. As the voyage unfolds, you’ll find yourself thriving through adventure, relaxation, and eye-opening experiences. Pura Vida!
Expedition Highlights
- Transit the 48-mile-long Panama Canal connecting the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean.
- Discover Costa Rica’s magnificent biological diversity at several national parks and a wildlife refuge.
- Tropical rainforest hikes: watch for howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, white-faced capuchins, and sloths.
- Snorkel and explore the crystalline waters and marine life in Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Unparalleled off-the-beaten-path exploration in lush jungles, crystal clear coves, and remote peninsulas.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Liberia/Flamingo Marina – Embarkation
Welcome to the land of pura vida. Upon arrival at Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, transfer to the marina to board the Safari Voyager. Settle in, meet the crew, and enjoy a welcome dinner and route talk.
Day 2 – Murcielago Bay (Santa Rosa National Park)
Your adventure begins in remote Murcielago Bay, part of Santa Rosa National Park. Accessible only by boat, this area invites exploration by skiff or snorkel. There will also be opportunities for guided hikes nearby. Enjoy scenic islands and vibrant underwater life far from the crowds.
 
Day 3 – Santa Elena Bay (Santa Rosa National Park)
Santa Elena Bay is known for its rich marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Kayak pristine waters, snorkel over vibrant reefs, or hike scenic trails in the surrounding area.
Day 4 – Curu Wildlife Refuge
Discover the diverse wildlife of Curu Wildlife Refuge, home to monkeys, exotic birds, butterflies, and crocodiles. In the afternoon, enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or relaxing at a beach party near beautiful Isla Tortuga.
Day 5 – Isla San Lucas National Park & Puntarenas
Visit Isla San Lucas, once home to Costa Rica’s most notorious prison and now a national park. Tour preserved prison structures, hike forest trails, and kayak scenic coastlines. Later, stroll Puntarenas’ Paseo de los Turistas boardwalk, admire local landmarks, shop, and immerse yourself in coastal culture.
Day 6 – Osa Peninsula: Drake Bay & Corcovado National Park
Experience the wild beauty of the Osa Peninsula near Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically rich places on Earth. Hike Drake Bay’s rugged coast and watch for monkeys, reptiles, birds, and migrating humpback whales. Cool off with snorkeling or a refreshing river swim.
 
Day 7 – Golfo Dulce & Saladero Preserve
Explore Golfo Dulce, one of only four tropical fjords in the world and a birding paradise. Kayak or skiff alongside mangroves and lush rainforest shorelines, spotting endemic wildlife in this biodiversity hotspot. Explore Saladero Preserve, a beautiful area where palm trees line the crystal-clear water.
Day 8 – Coiba National Park
Today, we will be heading south and crossing into the waters off the coast of Panama. Your captain will take you to remote islands inside Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a beautiful snorkeling spot. Hop in the water with your expedition team and discover the colorful world beneath the surface.
 
Day 9 – Darien Gap: Punta Alegre
The Darien Gap is a well-known region that connects North and South America. It is a roadless stretch of dense rainforest, swamps, and mountains. We will anchor near Punta Alegre for a day of exploration by kayak, skiff, and hiking ashore.
 
Day 10 – Darien Gap: Native Village Visit
Today, we will continue our exploration of the Darien Gap with a visit to a native village. You will take a beautiful skiff tour up a river lined with mangroves to reach your destination: Embera Village. Here, there are no roads, plumbing, or electrical grids. Villagers raise their children in the culture with near complete isolation from the modern world. You will learn all about their way of life through dancing, singing, and storytelling.
Day 11 – Taboga Island & Panama Canal Crossing
Arrive at Taboga Island, also known as the “Island of the Flowers.” You will have free time to explore this picturesque Panamanian town or take a ridge hike with your guides for fantastic views of Panama City, the Gulf of Panama, and the Canal zone. The island is an excellent spot for birding, as it supports significant breeding colonies of brown pelicans, as well as other resident birds. Later today, sail into the sunset and experience one of the top bucket-list destinations on Earth: the Panama Canal. Marvel at the engineering and human tenacity that went into constructing this landmark while enjoying dinner with your fellow guests.
 
Day 12-13 – Guna Yala Islands (San Blas)
Explore the Guna Yala Islands, a collection of 378 tropical islands known for their white sand beaches, clear waters, and rich cultural traditions. Visit uninhabited islands and local Kuna native villages, meet the welcoming Kuna people, and learn about their famous handmade Molas. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, playing beach volleyball, and relaxing on the beach, or just enjoy the beauty of this remote island paradise.
Day 14 – Portobelo – Spanish Fort Exploration
You will go back in time today as you explore an isolated Spanish fort that was constructed in the 16thcentury onward. Over time, it was attacked and reconstructed, and today it survives as ruins. You will have the opportunity to explore the village on your own, or your guides will offer kayak and skiff tours to see the area from the water. Your night will end with a Captain’s Dinner and a slide show recapping your trip.
Day 15 – Colon Disembarkation & Transfer to Panama City
Enjoy a final breakfast on the Safari Voyager before disembarking the ship. Transfer to the Panama City Airport for your flight home.
