PANAMA TO COSTA RICA + MONTEVERDE, ARENAL VOLCANO

PANAMA TO COSTA RICA + MONTEVERDE, ARENAL VOLCANO & TORTUGUERO
Experience all the wildness and beauty of Costa Rica and
Panama on a sweeping adventure through the canal, along the
coasts, and inland to a mist-shrouded cloud forest, volcano,
lake, and a car-free, jungle village. Exhilarating coastal
adventures First explore aboard the versatile National
Geographic Sea Lion, with a variety of expedition tools. You’ll
walk in the rain forest, kayak through mangrove forests, search
for whales and dolphins in an expedition landing craft, and
transit the Panama Canal—a modern wonder of the world.
Snorkel at Isla Coiba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some
of the best reefs in the Eastern Pacific. An extensive inland
exploration Following your expedition, travel to dramatic
Monteverde cloud forest for naturalist-guided walks in the rain
forest reserve. Walk suspension bridges along Arenal Volcano,
active since 1968. Visit a family owned, third-generation coffee
farm with a chance to pick coffee cherries during a tour of the
grounds. Drive to Lake Arenal, which we cross in small boats.
Wild Tortuguero: The Caribbean coast After a short charter flight
and a lake crossing by private boat, you’ll find yourself in
remote, wild Tortuguero National Park. Stay in an eco lodge with
botanical gardens, wander the narrow streets of the car-free
village where the rain forest pushes in from all sides. Experience
the wildness on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica by venturing
into the narrow canals that let us navigate deep into the park in
search of monkeys, caiman, and tropical birds. Travel with an
exceptional team Explore with the largest, most knowledgeable
expedition team in the region. With one naturalist for every 12
guests, you’re ensured more access and varied points of view.
With no assigned groups, you are free to experience
the different personalities and specialties of our staff. They
know these trails and coastlines well, adding insight, depth, and
clarity to each landing. Our naturalists are adept at spotting
wildlife and our photo instructors will help you with camera
settings in the jungle and aboard ship. Their enthusiasm for the
region and its biodiversity is contagious.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: U.S./Panama City, Panama/Colón/N.G. Sea Lion
Upon arrival in Panama City, drive to Colón to board National Geographic Sea
Lion and set sail for the first part of our Panama Canal transit anchoring in
Gatún Lake. This unique interruption makes us one of the few ships that make
the crossing in two days, as well as the only ship permitted the exclusive
opportunity to explore impressive Barro Colorado, which we visit tomorrow. (D)
DAY 2: Barro Colorado/Panama Canal Transit
In the morning, we’ll board expedition landing craft for Barro Colorado Nature
Monument in Gatún Lake. This island has been the primary Smithsonian
center for tropical rain forest study since 1923, and we are very proud to have
special permission to visit the facilities at the Smithsonian Tropical Research
Institute. Meet some of the scientists and learn about their work before we
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re-board to continue our crossing. Often we have the opportunity to cross part
of the Canal during the day, and another when it is dramatically lit at night.
(B,L,D)
DAY 3: Gulf of Panama Islets
This archipelago of islands due south of Panama City has a storied past —
pearls, conquistadors, buccaneers, and so much more. We’ll explore the
turquoise waters via expedition landing craft or kayak, where dolphins and
whales have been spotted. Observe roosting and nesting magnificent frigate
birds and blue-footed boobies on an otherwise empty stretch of white sand.
(B,L,D)
DAY 4: Isla Coiba National Park
Isla Coiba is one of Panama’s most remote national parks, where you may
hike tropical, moist forest trails, swim and snorkel amid tropical fish. Our staff
will assist both novice and expert snorkelers alike. For those preferring a drier
clime, Naturalists take underwater footage, which animates our evening
gathering in the lounge. (B,L,D)
DAY 8: Herradura/Monteverde
Disembark National Geographic Sea Lion and head to Carara National Park,
where the less dense rain forests make for easy bird sightings. Lunch at a
local restaurant before venturing to the nearby Bat Jungle exhibit or hearing
from an early Quaker settler of Monteverde. We’ll check in to a family-owned
retreat with privacy, expansive lawns and picturesque views of the cloud
forest. (B,L,D)
DAY 9: Monteverde
Breakfast at the hotel before visiting a butterfly farm where we’ll have the
opportunity to see dozens of local species in a short time. After lunch, we’ll
tour the Monteverde reserve with trained Naturalists, relying on their expertise
to spot mantled howler monkeys and possibly the rare Resplendent Quetzal.
(B,L,D)
DAY 10: Monteverde/Arenal
Today we make our first landfall in Costa Rica. At Casa Orquídeas, a
privately-owned garden accessible only by boat and special invitation, see a
profusion of orchids; and look for tanagers, parrots and gaudy toucans. Later,
explore the bay of Golfo Dulce, ideal for kayaking, expedition landing craft
cruises or swimming. (B,L,D)
We’ll enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then visit a family-owned, third
generation coffee farm. A local guide will share the culture of coffee farming in
Central America, and we’ll have a chance to pick coffee cherries during a tour
of the grounds. After the tour, we’ll drive to Lake Arenal, which we’ll cross in
40-passenger boats landing at a restaurant on the lake’s far side. By the time
lunch is finished, our motorcoaches will have arrived with our luggage. We’ll
check in check into an elegant hotel surrounded by gardens and pastures with
grazing animals, and every room offers a panoramic view of the smoldering
Arenal Volcano. (B,L,D)
DAY 6: Osa Peninsula & Corcovado N.P.
DAY 11: Arenal Volcano
National Geographic Sea Lion anchors off the remote Osa Peninsula and the
environs of Corcovado National Park. Our exact landing spot for the day will
depend on sea conditions. You may swim in waterfall pools, horseback ride or
join a expedition landing craft cruise. Trek through the rain forest for a chance
to see three species of monkey in one day: howler, spider and squirrel!
(B,L,D)
Walk the Arenal Hanging Bridges strung more than 3 kilometers through the
rain forest canopy, and then explore the Arenal bridges winding through the
dense forest. In the evening, relax in thermal pools naturally heated by the
volcano. (B,L,D)
DAY 7: Manuel Antonio National Park
Transfer from your hotel to the Arenal airstrip for a charter flight to Tortuguero,
a spectacular lowland forest on Costa Rica’s northeast coast, accessible only
by water or air. A short boat ride brings you to the rustic Aninga Lodge, set on
the water’s edge. Settle into your accommodations in charming private
bungalows raised above the rain forest floor and enjoy lunch at the lodge’s
restaurant. The lodge also has swimming pools and a walking trail to take
advantage of. Later, explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park in small
boats with your naturalist guides. Be on the lookout for howler, spider and
capuchin monkeys as well as caiman, ibis, tiger herons, curassow and myriad
DAY 5: Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica
The abundant wildlife here is most active in the early morning, so we are sure
to get an early start. Monkeys or vividly colored birds can be easy to spot, but
it often takes the expert eye of a Naturalist to point out lethargic three-toed
sloths. In the afternoon, we explore Costa Rica’s beautiful coast where we’ll
find a great spot for a final hike or swim. (B,L,D)
DAY 12: Arenal/Tortuguero
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other bird species. Dine tonight at the lodge restaurant, nestled in the middle
of the rain forest. (B,L,D)
DAY 13: Tortuguero
Set out by boat to explore more of Tortuguero National Park’s canals. You can
choose guided boats or go by kayak for a more personal exploration. In the
early afternoon, you’ll have free time to enjoy the lodge’s amenities such as
the pool or optional spa treatments before visiting the Sea Turtle Conservancy.
There you’ll learn about the history of the region and important conservation
work taking place on Tortuguero’s beaches. Later, stroll through the car-less
village to see small shops before dining at Miss Junies, a restaurant with a
rich heritage and Afro-Caribbean flair. (B,L,D)
DAY 14: Tortuguero/San José
En route to San José, stop to visit Sibú Chocolatier, makers of some of the
world’s finest organic chocolate. Learn the Aztec & Mayan history of the cacao
plant and enjoy a workshop on preparing chocolate. The day ends with a
farewell dinner. (B,L,D)
DAY 15: San José/Home
Transfer to the San José airport for flights home. (B)
Please Note:
All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit,
conditions permitting.
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YOUR SHIP: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEABIRD & SEALION
National Geographic SeaBird &
YOUR SHIP:
SeaLion
VESSEL TYPE:
Comfortable Expedition
LENGTH:
52 metres
PASSENGER CAPACITY:
62 (in twin cabins)
BUILT/REFURBISHED:
1982 / Refurbished 2015
Twin Expedition ships, National Geographic Sea Bird & Sea
Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to their
small size, yet each can comfortably accommodate 62 guests.
The feeling, is often compared to that of a large private yacht,
with everyone integral to the adventure. Accessibility means
freedom. Our captains have decades of sailing experience in the
regions we explore. They know when and where to navigate so
that you feel the places we visit are all ours.
Full interior renovations have been completed on these twin
62-guest ships, _National Geographic Sea Lion_ and _National
Geographic Sea Bird_. The extensive renovation to guest cabins,
the lounge and bar, dining room, public areas and spa has
transformed the ships to provide the ultimate in expedition
hospitality and comfort. Nothing has been left untouched, from
the sleekly framed wall photos, to the fresh paint, and new
carpets throughout the ships.
The lounge and bar have been completely redesigned and
reconfigured to provide an open, enhanced environment with
additional
seating and better flow. The modern design features new tables
and chairs, upholstery of settees, overhead ceiling panels, and
LED dimmable lighting. The lounge also hosts a new food &
beverage area, library, and Global Market.
The dining room's upgrade features all new tables, chairs,
ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The wine bar has
been replaced and features a display showcasing selections
from the regions explored.
Every cabin has been completely redone and all furnishings
have been replaced. Modern aged cherry bed boxes, faux
leather headboards, Lindblad signature bed linens, new
windows, lighting, and additional USB outlets provide a
dramatic makeover for a relaxing guest experience. Bathrooms
now feature new shower doors and all new hardware.
Exterior renovations include new deck furniture and outdoor
awning.
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[email protected] | wildearth-travel.com
INSIDE YOUR SHIP
Category 1
Category 1 single
Category 2
Category 2 single
Category 3
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[email protected] | wildearth-travel.com
PRICING
03-Dec-2016 to 17-Dec-2016
28-Jan-2017 to 11-Feb-2017
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
17-Dec-2016 to 31-Dec-2016
11-Feb-2017 to 25-Feb-2017
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
31-Dec-2016 to 14-Jan-2017
25-Feb-2017 to 11-Mar-2017
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
14-Jan-2017 to 28-Jan-2017
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)
[email protected] | wildearth-travel.com
PRICING
11-Mar-2017 to 25-Mar-2017
Category 1
13350 AUD pp
Category 2
14480 AUD pp
Category 3
15730 AUD pp
Category 1 single
18100 AUD pp
Category 2 single
19980 AUD pp
0800 945 3327 (within New Zealand) | +64 (0) 3 365 1355 | 1800 107 715 (within Australia)
[email protected] | wildearth-travel.com