On an air conditioned bus, during this 40-minute ride to the wonderful island of Baru, the newest tourist development area in Colombia, you may sit back and enjoy the scenery of other areas of Cartagena, take a look to the growing industrial area and finally arrive to the National Aviary, one of the best aviaries in the world given its high number of species. Colombia is the country in the world holding the highest bird diversity, with more than 1,900 species and The National Aviary displays an important sample of this variety.  Once you arrive to the National Aviary, you may initiate your tour and explore the different bird observation stations arranged by habitat and species on your own such as:

• Tropical Forest, where you may find different kinds of Macaws, Harpy Eagles, Tangaras and other varieties of species as well as different kinds of palm trees, waterfalls and the Macaque Monkeys.

• Coastlines and Mangroves, the habitat of different kind of Ducks, Cormorants and Pelicans.

• Coastline, where you will be able to observe different kinds of Herons, Doves, Storks and the migrating Teals.

• Dessert Station an environment where different species such as the Cardinals, Mockingbirds and Partridges live

• Andean Region, in this station you may admire the Owls, Eagles and the famous Andean Condor, king of our mountains.

After this marvelous trip surrounded by birds, beautiful landscapes, palm trees and waterfalls you will have time for enjoying some beverages or drinking some delicious Colombian Coffee to later on get on your bus back to Cartagena and be ready to enjoy a wonderful short photo stop at the San Felipe Fort then a sightseeing of The Old City of Cartagena before returning to the ship.

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.  Please wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and bring your camera.

With this excursion you will fill your cup with the bold history of Cartagena and the rich goodness of pure Colombian Coffee. Your adventure will begin with a 15-minute motor coach ride to San Felipe Fortress, built in the 17th century. You will make a photo stop there before continuing on for a sightseeing tour of the Old City. You will visit a beautifully restored colonial house where you will get a good idea about colonial architecture and restoration. Then on to an experience to awaken the senses, touch, sight, taste, and smell and discover the amazing flavors of excellent Colombian Coffee.  You will have a introduction to Colombian Coffee, an overview of the coffee process, raw materials, quality assessments, smelling and tasting exercises, finishing with tasting 3 different coffees through alternative coffee rituals.  You will then have the opportunity for a walking tour along the narrow streets and squares of the walled city, followed by a panoramic sightseeing  tour of modern Cartagena and its bay.

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

The magnificent city of Cartagena, once a preferred target for pirates and the treasure chest of the Spanish Main, is yours to explore as you embark an air-conditioned bus or mini-bus today. On tour, you will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide as you travel past marvelous Republican architecture. You will see the Manga residential area, where some of the aging mansions have been restored to their original splendor. Stop for a half hour to explore the Fort of San Felipe de Barajas, a 17th century construction acknowledged to be the most important work of Spanish Military engineering in Latin America. At Las Bovedas (the Dungeons), about 20 minutes is allowed for handicraft shopping and for rubbing elbows with the local artisans who proudly display their works for you. Pass through Simón Bolívar Square and the Inquisition Palace before continuing on to the Cathedral, also called The Minor Basilica, it was the first church built in the city in 1537. Next stop is the Church of San Pedro Claver—the patron saint of slaves. You will find Colombia’s famous native gem—the emerald—along with handicrafts and leather goods shops. You will have approximately 40 minutes to shop before returning to the ship.

 

Please note: Guests who remain in town for shopping will have to return to the ship on their own. 

 

 

 

Depart from the port of Cartagena for the short drive to the famous Getsemaní district. This neighborhood represents a different side a Cartagena.  You will have time to explore this area which embodies the greatest cultural heritage of the city. From the colonial architecture and history, to the brightness of its streets and the colorful personality of its people, this populous sector of the city is a magical place that every visitor will appreciate. After your guided walk through the narrow streets of Getsemaní, you will arrive at a point to observe the Convent La Popa located at the highest point of Cartagena, San Felipe Fort, and San Sebastian del Pastelillo Port, where the tour guide will give all the historical information on these three highly relevant city monuments. Your tour will bring you to the barracks of Bóvedas, former jail cells now converted to colorful handicraft stores and galleries.  This construction consists of 47 arches and 23 vaults, considered the last work of the period of the Colony. You will have time to browse and shop. Your tour will continue as you follow the wall and make a walk through the main streets and squares of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After your free time for shopping or wondering around Cartagena's Open Air Museum, enjoy a panoramic tour before returning to the ship.

 

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.  Please wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and bring your camera.

 

 

 

You will board your motor coach for the 15-minute drive to San Felipe Fortress, the largest Spanish fort built in the 17th century.  You will have time to take photos before taking a sightseeing drive through the Old City, admiring the marvelous Republican architecture of the houses in the Manga residential area. You will be taken to the Emerald Museum – Bocagrande to learn about emeralds.You will go into an actual size replica of a mine tunnel and experience what mining is like as you watch the emerald-bearing veins. Then you will be taken to a special room for a lecture and a video on emeralds. You will learn how emeralds are extracted from the mines and brought to the different cutting and polishing centers. You will see the cutting and polishing machines and be shown step by step how each stone is cut and polished and you will have the opportunity to practice cutting a stone if you wish. Visit the jewelry making workshop and watch the process of fabricating sterling silver or 18k gold emerald jewelry before you visit the spacious and comfortable showroom. Then, enjoy a cocktail and have the opportunity to shop with an extra discount for you, before returning to the ship. On your way back to the ship you will have a sightseeing tour of modern Cartagena - Bocagrande, Laguito, Castillo Grande and the bay.

Please note:  This tour is not wheelchair accessible.  Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

In the midst of the 55,000-acre Soberania National Park, the Aerial Tram allows you to discover the secrets of the upper forest canopy deep within nature.  Board your motor coach for the 45-minute ride to the park.  The Tram will take you from the shadowy forest floor through the understory and into the sun-drenched canopy. Take in a birds-eye-view of a thousand hues of green, interspersed with the fluorescent exclamation points of flowering trees. You’ll even be able to see the Panama Canal from the Observation Platform.  Stop at the frog exhibit and proceed to the butterfly & orchid exhibitions to see and hear creatures in a natural setting. 

Please note:   Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring sunscreen, camera and insect repellent. Maximum weight to participate on this tour is 250 lbs.

Considered the 8th wonder of the world, the Panama Canal consists of a series of locks. The focus of this tour is designed to showcase the Miraflores Locks on the Pacific and to get an up close look at recent expansion. After boarding your motor coach for the 45-minute drive, you’ll make your way to the Miraflores Locks Visitors Center. In here take the opportunity to pause and view the gargantuan ships that make their way through the Panama Canal Museum and visit the terrace that overlooks the Panama Canal and has an exhibition area that constitutes the heart of this center. Next, you will head to the nearby IMAX Theater to enjoy an informational rich canal documentary narrated by Morgan Freeman. A small popcorn is included. After observing this amazing feat, you’ll travel to the New Panama Canal Locks (Agua Clara Visitor Center) where you’ll see the addition of a new traffic lane. This new lane created two new sets of locks, one on the Pacific and one on the Atlantic, which doubles the canal’s capacity and allows longer and wider vessels to transit.  Also included, lunch at a local restaurant, located in Panama City where you can taste the local flavors. At the end of your tour, you’ll return to port.

 

Please note:   Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring sunscreen, camera and insect repellent. The order of the tour might vary and lunch will either be in the middle of the tour or at the end. 

 

 

 

Your English-speaking guide will pick you up and take you on a tour of Panama City and the Miraflores Locks. You will start the tour with a 30-minute drive to Miraflores to see the huge vessels passing through the Panama Canal. You will be able to see many ships getting lifted or lowered as you enjoy the view from a sheltered terrace and listen to the explanations of your guide. You will also learn about the history of the canal and its significance for Panama and the entire world trade as well as on the current expansion project. You will continue with your guide to the Amador Causeway, a road that connects three Islands in the Pacific Ocean and offers magnificent views of the Canal on one side and of the skyline of Panama City on the other side. The tour will continue to Casco Viejo, Panama City’s colonial quarter. At Casco Viejo you will take a trip back in time as you admire the lovely colonial houses, the narrow roads and the impressive churches. You will get a good idea about Panama’s history by driving or walking through the main attractions of this quarter. 
 
Please note:   Wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, sunscreen, and water. Vessel transit viewing at Miraflores Locks is likely but not guaranteed as transit times are variable and not made public. The order of sites visited may vary. 

 

 

 

This is a nature adventure of sight and sound, combined with the thrill of speeding through the Panama Canal next to the mighty ships transiting this man-made wonder! You will have a 45-minute drive to the speed boat. After an exhilarating 30-minute ride at high speed right through the heart of the Panama Canal, the boat will slow down and enter the labyrinth of jungle-covered islands of Lake Gatun. In this protected area the wildlife is plentiful, and you are likely to encounter capuchin monkeys, 3-toed sloths, howler monkeys, various kinds of toucans and other bird life as well as caimans, crocodiles, turtles and a wealth of butterflies. This is an exceptional place to experience the sights and sounds of the jungle up close.  The trained naturalist guides will ensure that you have an outstanding nature experience by identifying the wildlife as well as educating you about the area on this exceptional jungle and canal adventure.

Please note:  Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues. Wear light clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Bring sunscreen, camera and insect repellent.

Step aboard a time machine and travel back more than 600 years; to a Central America only few have had the privilege of experiencing. This will be a journey into the lives of the Embera Indigenous Tribe, a proud people, who have been able to maintain their traditions and lifestyle as it was before the Spaniards colonized the region. Start out the expedition aboard an air-conditioned vehicle where a knowledgeable guide will give you an overview of Panama on the way to the jungles of the Central Region. Your host will prepare you for the cultural feast you are about to experience by sharing the history and customs of the Emberá People who are the keepers of the Rainforest and Chagres River. When you arrive at the Chagres National Park, you will board dugout canoes that will take you to the Emberá Village. These dugouts are sturdy and worthy craft critical in the conquering of the jungle and in establishing supply lifelines for both the Emberá and Spanish. After motoring up river, you will see the village emerge from the jungle. Keep your eyes open along the way, as the region offers abundant wildlife particularly active along the river’s edge. In the Village, the Chief will welcome you with traditional Emberá hospitality. A series of dances have been arranged to add to this cultural exchange. Feel free to wander the village, ask questions or interact with these quiet people. Please remember that we are guests in their home and a good measure of common sense and sensitivity towards their privacy is appreciated. The Emberá men and woman are spectacular craftsmen who have produced some beautiful items, which will be available for purchase as souvenirs or keepsakes of this unique experience.
 
Please note: Boarding and debarking of local canoes requires a minimum of dexterity and flexibility. The landing consists of a rudimentary “put in” that lacks handrails or proper steps. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing and insect repellent. You will have an Embera snack at the village.
 
 

 

 

 

The inshore fishing in Central America is often overlooked due to the phenomenal offshore fishing that grabs headlines, but it is equally as exciting and even more diverse. You can catch over 20 different species of game fish while inshore fishing. For the anglers who aren’t interested in trolling offshore all day you can cast poppers, slow-troll live bait, or go jigging as the inshore action is consistent and exciting. Along the Pacific coastlines of the Isla Parida archipelago you can fish the volcanic coastline and countless islands for Jacks, Mackerel, big Cubera Snapper, Snook, and the famous Roosterfish. The unique dorsal fin and hard fighting ability of the Roosterfish make it one of the most sought after species for many salt water anglers!

Please note:  This is a catch-and-release fishing activity. Caught fish are not allowed to be brought back on board. Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring your swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, and insect repellent. Your boat will be guided by an experienced captain and mate. You will be provided with top-of-the line tackle and gear, bait sodas, bottled water, beer, all required safety equipment including life jackets, throw devise, fire extinguishers, smoke and flare devices, ship-to-shore radio and first aid kit.

The rainforest is filled with over 1,000 teak, mahogany, eucalyptus, and many of other trees, plants and fauna. Your hike will approximately and 1 ½ hours in significant to extreme heat and humidity and the level of difficulty is moderate to strenuous.  You will disembark your ship and take tenders to the beach where you will be met by certified bilingual guides. Isla Parida represents one of the world’s few remaining “undiscovered” places. Adventure off the beaten path to explore the wondrous ecology of the island, from beautiful flowers and rare vegetation to iguanas and rare birds. Along the way you’ll enjoy a viewpoint stop to see neighboring islands. 

Experience the interesting cacao manufacturing process by visiting a traditional cacao plantation at Kobo Farm. Board your minivan for the 25-minute drive to this untouched and mystical area, where you will see the cacao forest, the flowers, and fruit. The history and culture of this tropical crop reaches back to the Mayas. You will learn about the origin of the cacao tree, the history, the first contact with Europeans, and the principal disease called monilia. You will take a guided walk where you will see different species of cacao fruit, take a break in this beautiful spot and taste fresh fruit from the “chocolate tree.”  You will be shown the various steps of making good chocolate and have the opportunity to taste a wonderful chocolate fondue with fresh fruit and homemade banana bread from the farm in the middle of a tropical garden.

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be walking over both paved and dirt paths. It also involves a wet landing so bring your sandals or water shoes as well.  Bring  your  hat,  sunscreen, insect  repellent and sunglasses. The guide will be waiting for you at the chocolate farm.  

Costa Rica’s warm seas are home to one of the most biologically diverse marine habitats in the world. The best place to observe these magnificent mammals is in the waters off the Osa Peninsula. You will board your boat and head for a place known by ¨National Geographic to be “the most biologically intense area on earth.” A place where large groups of dolphins swim in clear blue tropical waters putting on an amazing show!  As you cruise around the bay your tour will be enhanced by the informative commentary provided by a trained naturalist guide. You will learn about the biology, behavior and habits of the wildlife you will spot. You will have amazing photo opportunities and if weather permits you will have free time to swim in the serene waters of Punta Encanto (Enchanted Beach).  

Please note: This tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility or back problems as it involves an optional nature walk over a gravel surface and the boat ride might get bumpy.

Go across Golfo Dulce where life goes at a slow pace and through the humid mangroves with the squeaking sounds of the unique scarlet macaws that mingle in this area, the most common birds. Your kayak guides will be waiting with your kayaks and paddles ready for you to begin this fun experience! Paddle up the mangrove estuary with the rising tide until you can go no further and return with the falling tide, dragging your kayak across the sand spit and into the Golfo Dulce to cruise the shoreline, stopping to swim at the best beach.  Pods of bottle-nosed porpoises return daily along this coast on their way to the open Pacific, affording a great chance to view them.  

Please note: This tour is operated at high tide only. A waiver is required and there is a weight restriction of 235 lbs. Wear light clothes, hat or visor, sunscreen, and sun glasses. Wear your bathing suit under your clothes for those who want to swim at the beach and bring a towel.

A boat ride through the mangroves is like visiting another world.  The species of trees that grow in the mixed waters of the ocean and the river make a unique and very fragile ecosystem.  Most of these trees grow along the estuary, developing an aerial root system. As the tide goes down the roots become suspended in the air creating a perfect home for crabs and caimans. In the upper part of the forest you will see monkeys and a great variety of birds including herons, egrets, and spoonbills. The launch will take you to a private property for refreshments as your naturalist tour guide gives you more information about this amazing ecosystem. Your shaded boat will then take you deep into the mangroves, where you will try to spot all the incredible wildlife making their home there.  After a 2- hour boat ride you will arrive at the village where transportation will be waiting to drive you back to the ship.  An optional drop off in Quepos is also available, where you will find several restaurants and shops.

Please note: Wear light clothing, good walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.  

Experience a fun and informative tour of local cuisine, learn where the organic ingredients come from, how dishes are prepared, and how to recreate recipes at home. Once in the small town of Londres, at a private ranch and dining area, you will be greeted by the team. They will proceed to guide you through the garden to pick out some finishing flavors, colors and textures for your meal. Now, to the preparation guided by their expert local cooks. Participate in the kitchen and experience the process of making corn tortillas by hand, exotic “ceviches” with plantain, rice cooked the old-fashioned way, chicken in a hearty tomato sauce, “picadillos” and more. Once you sit down for your meal, not only will your appetite be satiated but also your curiosity for Costa Rican local flavors. Let your imagination soar on how to recreate at home with your own seasonal ingredients. There will be leisure time available for you to explore the ranch.

Please note: Wear light comfortable clothing.

Travel through the beautiful countryside to Esquipulas Rainforest, a lovely private nature reserve located 50 minutes away from Quepos. The property is refreshed with crystal-water creeks, and surrounded by giant trees that you can only find in tropical jungles, a land with an amazing number of species of birds and butterflies. Your naturalist guide will lead you through the trails of the rainforest, sharing the guide’s vast knowledge of this fragile ecosystem. Enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful place, while you walk on easy trails. Search with your binoculars and discover between branches and leaves the secrets of the wildlife in this amazing forest. Be ready with your senses to hear the songs of the different species of birds and even see them! Be on the lookout for toucans, hummingbirds, and animals like monkeys and other small mammals. After this unforgettable encounter with nature, learn more about Costa Rica followed by an introduction to one of the most important crops in the local economy the coffee.   In their private museum, your tour guide will show you the process to convert this fruit in one of the most famous drinks around the world. To get the best of your day in Quepos you will then be served a hearty traditional Costa Rican casado lunch.

 

Please note: Bring suntan lotion, sunglasses, camera, binoculars, a hat/visor, and insect repellent. Wear light clothing, long pants and hiking shoes. Part of the fun of this experience is the interaction with a colorful local nature guide. As an example, the following in an abbreviated biography of one of our participating guides. Rudy Guzman has always had a passion for nature from his days as a boy scout. For over 40 years he has been a licenses nature tour guide traveling through many Costa Rican environments. With the help of 3 brothers, Norberto , Carlos and Cristian Bonilla, they created The  Esquipulas Rainforest Project to introduce visitors  to Costa Rican natural history and share great tasting coffee.

 

           

 

This is an excursion for adrenaline lovers. You will be picked up at La Marina and go to the property where you will start your horseback riding tour. During the 30-minute drive to Londres - where the tour starts - your guide will give you an interesting briefing about the history of Quepos. Once you reach Londres you will set foot on a picturesque property that has bathrooms, stables, a corral and an open air waiting area. You will receive riding instructions, safety tips and practice time, before heading out to explore the rainforest. This tour will allow you to uncover the exotic secrets that lie within this secondary rainforest. The maximum altitude of this area is 1,900 feet. You will ride through the mountains without reaching the mountain top. Your horse ride lasts about 2.5 hours (round trip) and it will be highlighted by amazing valley views, verdant vegetation and numerous wildlife species such as birds and reptiles. At the end of the trail there is a beautiful waterfall where you will be able to rest for about 30 minutes. You can lie on the grass or take a swim or both! After the break, you will return by the same trail. Back to the stables; enjoy a refreshing beer and Costa Rican-style BBQ, just as a real cowboy would do! 

Please note:  This tour is not suitable for guests without any horseback riding experience or who may not be comfortable around horses. Children riding alone must be at least 6 years old. Maximum weight for riders is 235 pounds.  Bring suntan lotion, sunglasses, a camera, a hat/ visor, insect repellent and bathing suit. Wear long pants and comfortable hiking shoes. Signed waiver is required. 

Experience a unique piece of Costa Rican rural heritage just about an hour from Quepos on a scenic country drive by van. This guided nature, conservation, and cultural expedition takes you along the lush, jungle-shrouded slopes of the nearby Fila Chonta Mountains to the farm village of Santa Juana. You will enjoy exploring along the 1.5-mile user-friendly nature trail as your guide will share knowledge of this pristine sanctuary of flora and fauna where both the Rodeo and Paquita Rivers are born. You will continue to where you can swim beneath the pristine waterfalls that feed the Rodeo River.  You will have free time to fish for tilapia or explore the tropical gardens and waterfalls. You will visit the tiny farm village of Santa Juana, overlooking the panoramic coastline of the Pacific Ocean as you enjoy an authentic Campesino (country) lunch in a typical village rancho, co-hosted by members of the local community.   

Please note: This tour is not wheelchair accessible. The road is bumpy and winding and there are stairs involved. This tour includes a light breakfast and a buffet lunch.  There is an option for swimming so wear your bathing suit under your clothes.