Central and South America

Panama | Birding and Culture at the Crossroads of the Americas

with Alan Gubanich
Date:
Dec 1 - Dec 9, 2022
Duration:
9 Days
Price:
From $3,395
Interests:
Cultural Travel
Join Waitlist This departure is SOLD OUT Print Itinerary
Panama City skyline
Miraflores locks
Birding in Panama
Cocoi Heron
Emberá child
Savanna Hawk
Gamboa rainforest
Green Honeycreeper
Yellow-throated Toucan
Join Waitlist
Join Waitlist

About this trip

Panama’s prime location between North and South America offers birders an extraordinary advantage for spotting its 1,000-plus bird species. After exploring Panama City highlights, spend time birding in trails, parks, and towers in the surrounding natural areas, including Finca Bayano, Soberanía National Park, and the world-famous Pipeline Road – a well-renowned trail for the immense number of species found here. Despite the proximity to Panama City, the natural area boasts rich avifauna and an abundance of other wildlife. Also, learn a blend of history and culture that make this a spectacular country to check off your list for a birding adventure.

Highlights

  • Explore the historical wonders of Panama City and see ships transit through the Miraflores Locks in the Panama Canal.
  • Search for lowland bird species in Finca Bayano, a private rice farm, including the Cocoi Heron, Pearl Kite, and Pied Water-Tyrant.
  • Meet members of the indigenous Emberá tribe and learn about their history, traditions, and culture.
  • Spot hummingbirds, manakins, and trogons along Pipeline Road, and search for the Red-lored Parrot, Yellow-throated Toucan, and Masked Tityra from a 130-foot observation tower.
  • Ride on Gamboa’s Aerial Tram for advantageous viewing of nesting birds, sloths, and several species of monkeys.
  • Journey along four-mile Plantation Road searching for interior forest birds including the Ocellated Antbird, Ruddy Woodcreeper, and Golden-crowned Spadebill.
PLEASE NOTE: As safety and security are our highest priority, we have adopted extensive protocols to address COVID-19. Our field leaders are vaccinated and we require our travelers to be vaccinated. We follow strict field hygiene practices which are outlined on our website. If required, we arrange for Covid testing at the end of your program.

Reserve Risk-free - Registrations made for travel departing between now and December 31, 2022 are fully refundable with no cancellation penalties until the final payment deadline (95 days before departure). We strongly recommend purchasing travel protection.

Land Cost

$3,395

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $620

What makes us different

Scopes

All of our birding guides carry scopes to improve your chances of spotting even the most hard to find species

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Worry-free Planning & Travel

Enjoy peace of mind with a dedicated educational travel consultant taking care of the logistics and our 24/7/365 support team ready to assist should any problems arise while your group is traveling.

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Cultural immersion

Immerse yourself in local traditions and beliefs through authentic hands-on experiences

Culture in context

Incorporate history, social institutions, economy, government, and traditions of the destination to put culture in context

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Panama City
Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, meet your driver and transfer approximately 45 minutes to the hotel, which is situated along the Amador Causeway. Check-in begins at 3 pm. This is an international arrival day, with most flights arriving in the evening; therefore, no activities are planned today.
Radisson Panama Canal
Panama City
This morning meet for a welcome breakfast and orientation to the program and Panama City before heading out to explore the historical wonders of the city. The first stop is Panama Viejo. Founded in 1519, Panama Viejo (Old Panama) was the first Spanish city established on the Pacific coast of the Americas and was one of the most important trade routes in the history of the American continent. Together with the historical district of Panama, it forms a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Highlights include the Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Bishop House, Convent of the Nuns, and the Panama La Vieja Museum. Visit the Centro Municipal de Artesanias Panameñas for shopping then have lunch. Next, head to the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to view the locks at work and enjoy the museum's interactive displays. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. This evening meet a member of the Panama Audubon Society to learn about their important conservation work then have dinner at a local restaurant on the causeway.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Radisson Panama Canal
Panama City
Visit Finca Bayano just east of Panama City. Bird this private rice farm that is an ideal birding spot for marsh and lowland bird species such as the Cocoi Heron, Savanna Hawk, Laughing Falcon, Pale-breasted Spinetail, Pearl Kite, Straight-billed Woodcreeper, and the Pied Water-Tyrant among more. Later, visit Cerro Azul (house of Jerry and Linda Harrison) for hummingbird observation. Return to the hotel and have dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Radisson Panama Canal
Gamboa
Depart for Gamboa this morning with another stop at Centro Municipal de Artesanias Panameñas and the Agua Clara Visitor Center overlooking the new Panamax locks. Late afternoon bird walk after arrival at Gamboa Rainforest Resort.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Gamboa
After breakfast, transfer toward Lake Alajuela, with discussions en route about indigenous cultures and their history in Panama. Upon arrival at the Chagres River, board dugout canoes for the journey through the dense jungle. Upriver, step out of the dugout canoes and experience a short hike (which could be a bit muddy) to a beautiful waterfall in the midst of the rainforest. Those who want to cool off can take a swim in the refreshing pool just beneath the waterfall. Continue to the village of the Emberá, one of seven indigenous tribes in Panama. The people of the Emberá community will provide a warm welcome and share about their life. The village chief will explain the history of the tribe, its traditions, cultures, beliefs, and handicrafts. After a typical lunch of fish and plantains prepared by the Emberá women, experience a traditional dance and have the opportunity to shop for handicrafts. The sale of local products directly benefits the village and helps fund schooling for the children. There is also the opportunity to get "inked" with a temporary Emberá tattoo painting. Later this afternoon return by boat to the dock and transfer by bus to Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Settle in and have dinner at the hotel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Gamboa
This morning, visit Soberanía National Park. Created in 1980, it stands as one of Panama's natural jewels and is one of the country's most accessible tropical rainforests. Next, visit Summit Ponds for birding and Summit Botanical Gardens, which hosts a research center for development of tropical biology and horticulture. The botanical garden showcases a representation of plant species from tropical and subtropical countries around the world and from the native species of Panama. Afterwards, return to the resort for lunch. This afternoon enjoy a presentation with the founder of the Pan American Conservation Association. Learn about wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, their work to transition injured animals back into the wild, animal relocation during canal expansion and meet their animal ambassadors.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Gamboa
Today, visit the Rainforest Discovery Center, located at the world-famous Pipeline Road. Begin at the visitor center, observing up to 14 species of hummingbirds that have been recorded at the feeders. Continue along the trails observing birds of the undergrowth, such as manakins and trogons. Ascend the 130-foot tower to observe birds in the canopy layer such as the Mealy and Red-lored Parrots, Keel-billed and Yellow-throated Toucans, Blue Cotinga, Masked Tityra, and Green and Red-legged Honeycreepers. Continue birding along Pipeline Road, looking for Crested Eagles and Hook-billed Kites. Golden-collared Manakin, White-bellied and Blue-throated Antbirds, and Pheasant Cuckoo may also be seen. This afternoon, take a ride on Gamboa's Aerial Tram, a journey of almost 2,000 feet aboard a gondola that rises above the rainforest, to appreciate viewpoints otherwise unachievable on the ground. At a height almost touching the treetops, you may see a wide variety of nesting birds, sloths, and several species of monkeys. At the end of the tram ride, you will find an impressive 100-foot-high observation tower with a 360-degree view of the Soberanía National Park, the Emberá indigenous communities nearby, and the famous intersection where the Chagres River feeds the Panama Canal and subsequently fills Gatun Lake to ensure the passage of ships.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Panama City
After breakfast, journey to Plantation Road. This old, graded dirt road passes along a mature forest and is approximately four miles long. Go birding along the road in search of interior forest birds, such as Spotted, Bicolored and Ocellated Antbirds, Gray-headed Tanagers, and Plain-brown, Northern Barred, and (if you're lucky) Ruddy Woodcreepers, following army ant swarms. Be on the lookout for the Hook-billed Kite, while Golden-crowned Spadebills are regulars around the creek, and White-breasted Wood-Wrens, tinamous, and leaftossers are easy to spot. Enjoy a picnic lunch, and then head out for birding at Metropolitan Nature Park, perhaps the only forest reserve within a major capital city in Latin America. Despite proximity to Panama City, it boasts rich avifauna. A member of the Audubon Society will accompany you. Farewell dinner this evening.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Crowne Plaza Panama Airport
Depart
This morning transfer to the international airport for the flight to the United States. Participants with later flights can keep their hotel rooms until check out at 12 pm. Except for breakfast, all other meals are on your own today.
Breakfast- included
Land Cost

$3,395

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $620

What's Included
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • Water refill station during transfers
  • Full time expert birding guide for duration of program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
What's Not Included
  • Carbon Offset
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance
  • Trip cancellation coverage
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 9 participants in double occupancy.

A $200 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. This deposit is refundable 95 days prior to departure. Cancellations after this date are not refundable.

Please note: Your participation as a traveler indicates acceptance of Holbrook Travel’s Covid-19 protocols in place at time of travel.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $620


Final payment due date: August 28, 2022

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. and Canadian citizens must have a valid passport to enter Panama. Passports must be valid for at least three months after the date of entry.

A visa is not re­quired for visits up to 180 days.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Panamanian Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

U.S. citizens entering Panama by commercial flight may be charged a $5 tourist fee if Holbrook does not make your air reservations.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Panama unless you are arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk.

Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Panama, primarily east of the area surrounding the Panama Canal. The CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine if you are traveling to these areas. Consult your physician for more information.

Some physicians recommend that travelers get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines before visiting Panama.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to certain areas of Panama may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. There is no vaccine to protect against malaria. If you are visiting areas where malaria is present and choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your doctor for a prescription. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin.

DENGUE FEVER & OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

Locally transmitted cases of dengue fever have been reported in Panama. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with dengue and are spreading it to people. In addition, locally transmitted cases of Zika virus, leishmaniasis, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported in Panama.

The CDC recommends that travelers to Panama protect themselves against insect bites. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Resources

Print Resources

Suggested Packing List

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary. You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities. Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection; jeans tend to be uncomfortable in hot and humid conditions, but are fine in the cooler highlands.
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting high-elevation areas)
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs. If your itinerary indicates muddy hikes with rubber boots provided on-site, pack a few pairs of knee socks to prevent blisters.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more rugged itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re whitewater rafting or visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or Buff-style headwear

MISCELLANEOUS

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Personal toiletries
  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear t

This was one of the most enjoyable trips I have ever been on.
- Candace G.
Panama , 2018
Want to subscribe to the Holbrook Explorer?
Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest updates on upcoming trips, deals, and more.
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.