Central and South America

Panama | Connecting Hemispheres in Panama: Birding and Culture with Cable Natural History Museum

Date:
Dec 11 - Dec 20, 2023
Duration:
10 Days
Price:
From $3,350
Interests:
Cultural Travel
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Panama City skyline
White-faced capuchin
Casco Viejo neighborhood
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird
Red-lored Parrot
Keel-billed Toucan
Miraflores Locks
Red-legged Honeycreeper
Tropical slider turtles in the Chagres River
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About this trip

Journey to the “Crossroads of the World” for an informative look at Panama’s fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty with Cable Natural History Museum. Explore the Pacific side of the country as you learn about the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal. Go beyond the canal and delve deeper into the country’s cultural identity, spending time with an indigenous community and local artisans and reflecting on the effects of colonization in the capital’s historical districts. Meanwhile, examine how Panama’s unique geography played a vital role in shaping the ecology of the Americas and visit many well-known birding trails, woodland habitats, tropical rainforests, Pipeline Road, and the Panama Bay Mudflats. When it comes to birds, Panama boasts the highest diversity of species in Central America; the country’s advantageous location at the convergence of two continents makes it the prime respite for migratory birds from both North and South America.

Highlights

  • Uncover Panama’s role as an international trade center and land of cultural diversity in the historical district of Casco Viejo and the historical ruins of Panamá Viejo.
  • Discover the skills of talented local artisans and learn about their process of making Panama’s national dress, accessories, and drums.
  • Learn about the geological origins, natural history, and ecological effects of the Panamanian isthmus at the Frank Gehry-designed BioMuseo.
  • Scale the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center’s 130-foot tower for the chance to see upper canopy species, including the coveted Blue Cotinga.
  • Explore the Soberanía National Park, home to an impressive list of 525 bird species, and hike the world-famous Pipeline Road.
  • Visit a sloth rescue center, meet animal ambassadors and learn about wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release during canal expansion.

Meet your leader

Mollie Kreb-Mertig

Mollie Kreb-Mertig has a passion for fostering deep connections between people and the natural wonders of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. In her role as the Curator Naturalist at the Cable Natural History Museum in Cable, WI, she leads nature education programs in the field and classroom, develops educational exhibits, and manages a professional collection of natural history specimens. Having previously traveled to neighboring Costa Rica, Mollie looks forward to extending her travels into Panama as your trip leader and facilitator of broadened connections with nature and culture.

Land Cost

$3,350

Per person

About this price

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

Single room supplement $600

What makes us different

Rich content

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

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Wildlife up-close

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

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Culture in context

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

Top birding guides

Our in-country birding guides are experts in bird identification and behavior, providing rewarding experiences for everyone from novice birders to ornithologists

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 in the Old Town, located in the Plaza Mayor. Check-in begins at 3 pm. This is an international arrival day, with most flights arriving in the evening; therefore, no activities or meals are planned today.
Central Hotel
Panama City
This morning, meet for a welcome breakfast and orientation to the program and Panama City at the hotel before heading out to explore the historical wonders of the city. Begin with some morning birding at the Metropolitan Natural Park. Next, head to the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to view the locks at work and watch ships pass through the canal. Have lunch at a local restaurant, then continue exploring Panama with a visit to the historical district of Casco Viejo, or Casco Antiguo, built in 1671 after the destruction of Panamá Viejo by the English privateer Henry Morgan. Casco Viejo's parks and narrow streets are lined with colorful buildings representative of Spanish, French, and early American architectural styles. This eclectic collection of architectural styles reflects the city's role as an international trade center and cultural melting pot long before the building of the canal. Explore the Metropolitan Cathedral, Municipal Palace, National Theater, French Embassy, and France Square. Return to the hotel to rest before meeting your group at the hotel restaurant for dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Central Hotel
El Valle de Anton
After an early breakfast at the hotel, head over to the Panama Bay Mudflats for shorebird viewing, before leaving for the Antón Valley. Have lunch en route. Upon arrival in Antón Valley, visit Butterfly Haven, which features a 1,500-square-foot enclosure containing more than 250 beautiful butterflies, as well as educational exhibits. It is also possible to see hummingbirds and other tropical birds feeding in the gardens. Continue to your accommodation, check in and then meet for dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Los Mandarinos Boutique Spa and Hotel
El Valle de Anton
Breakfast at the hotel before departing early to go birding at Cerro Gaital Natural Monument. The lush, 827-acre nature reserve protects the mountainous terrain surrounding El Valle de Antón and is home to more than 300 bird species. Some of the best birding is done along the fringes of the reserve, where vegetation is less dense. Migrant raptors can be seen here, as well as residents like the Barred Hawk and the Bat Falcon. Look for the Tawny-crested Tanager, Chestnut-capped Brushfinch, Orange-billed Nightingale-Thrush, Green Hermit, and Spotted Woodcreeper. This afternoon, you will visit organizations dedicated to the protection of Panama's wildlife. Visit APROVACA Orchid Nursery and Conservation Center, a non-profit organization established to conserve and protect native orchids. Stroll the orchid garden and the nursery, and learn about their project to reintroduce endemic orchids back into their natural habitats. Then, visit the Discovery Center at El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center Foundation, which serves as an educational resource to learn about amphibians, reptiles, and other endangered species in Panama. Today, lunch and dinner will be at the lodge.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Los Mandarinos Boutique Spa and Hotel
Chitre
Morning hike on the India Dormida trial. Return to the lodge for lunch then depart for Chitre. Make a stop in Parita, a town in the Herrera Province of Panama, to visit artisans who craft handmade drums or tambores, one of Panama's national symbols. Tambores are an instrument used in traditional Panamanian music with Indigenous, African, and European influence. Learn about the process of building a set of drums, which requires significant expertise in order to choose the right type of wood and leather to produce the unique sound of the tambor. Traditionally, leather from deer, goat, or wild pig was used for the best sound; however, as most of those species are protected, cow leather is now used almost exclusively. The wood must be cut into the right size and shape before being moistened, assembled, and dried in the shade. Continue the journey to Chitre with a stop en route to purchase some Pan de la Arena, the most famous artisan bread in the country. Tonight, enjoy dinner with a local family to learn about their life experiences and story in Panama.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel Cubita
Chitre
After an early breakfast, visit the home of a local artisan who makes Polleras, Panama's stunning national dress. Panama's Pollera originates from a Spanish dress from the 16th or 17th century, which was much simpler than today's version of the Pollera. There are many different types of Polleras, from simple colorful skirts to handcrafted and beautifully embroidered Polleras de Gala, which are considered one of the world's most beautiful national costumes. Panamanian women typically wear the Pollera for festive events and celebrations and complement the beautiful dress with ostentatious gold jewelry and Tembleques, intricately detailed hair accessories. These are made of fish scales, wires, pearls, and crystals, and they come in the shape of flowers, like roses and orchids, or animals, like butterflies, hummingbirds, peacocks, and more. They are called Tembleques (from the verb "temblar" in Spanish, which means to shake or tremble) because they are made out of flexible materials that shake when the women make a movement while walking or dancing. Enjoy the opportunity to have an immersive experience with the artisans in their workshops and learn how a skirt is made. Have lunch at their home, and then visit other local artisans who make pottery and masks, some more of Panama's most famous folkloric accessories. Return to the hotel for some time at leisure, or enjoy an optional nature hike. This evening, have dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Hotel Cubita
Gamboa
This morning, have breakfast at the hotel. Then, depart for Panama City, with lunch en route, to visit the Biomuseo, Panama City's museum that showcases the country's natural history and impact on the world's biodiversity. The strikingly colorful building was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. It represents the saga of the Isthmus of Panama, a land that united two continents, changed the world's biodiversity, and connected the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Inside, eight permanent exhibits tell the story in graphic detail. Arrive at Gamboa later in the day and have dinner. Tonight, enjoy an optional guided nocturnal safari around the reserve in a "Chiva" truck.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Gamboa
After breakfast, travel 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 provide a brief explanation on 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 travel by bus to the hotel for dinner.
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. Return to Gamboa for lunch. 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 Gatún Lake to ensure the passage of ships. Return to the lodge and visit the Sloth Sanctuary on the resort property. 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. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the hotel along with Afro-Panamanian dance.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Depart
This morning, travel to the international airport for the flight back to the United States. Participants with later flights can use their hotel rooms until check-out at 12 pm. Except for breakfast, all other meals are on your own today.
Breakfast- included
Land Cost

$3,350

Per person

About this price

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

Single room supplement $600

What's Included
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
  • All Tips except Guide and Driver
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance
  • Trip cancellation coverage
  • Tips for guide and driver
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 10 participants in double occupancy.

A $500 per person deposit and enrollment form is due to hold your space on this trip. This deposit is refundable 95 days prior to departure excluding a $300 cancellation fee. Cancellations after this date are non refundable.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection 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 $600


Final payment due date: September 07, 2023

Travel Info

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Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. 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.

Though not required, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to 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

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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 them.

The real highlights were the terrific birding at Canopy Lodge and Canopy Tower, coupled with great service and a feeling of "community" with the other guests.
- Kristine Lansing
Panama , 2019
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