Tropical Expedition 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
Secrets of Central America
Colón - Puntarenas
Dates:
7/1/2024
to
17/1/2024
days
nights on board
PONANT takes you to discover Panama and Costa Rica with an 11-day expedition cruise. A circuit of extraordinary beauty around the isthmus of Panama, a link between two continents, which concentrates a unique biodiversity; from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean between dream islands, natural reserves and encounters with the fascinating local communities.
Your journey in Central America will begin with a port of call in the magnificent Portobelo Bay, which includes mangroves, tropical forest and discovery of the Congo culture. The fortifications of this former gateway to the New World are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will then explore the golden sand and crystal-clear waters of the coral islets of the San Blas Islands. The Kuna people live among the palm trees and pirogues (small boats); this culture continues, among other things, the traditional craft of molas, weaved textiles in sparkling colours.
After sailing through the world-famous Panama Canal, your ship will stop in the Pearls Islands, which nestle in the Gulf of Panama.
Your ship will then head for the magnificent Darien National Park in Panama. This little corner of paradise is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to remarkable plants and wildlife. Sandy beaches, rocky coastlines, mangroves, swamps and tropical rainforests vie with each other for beauty and offer a feast for photographers. This will also provide an opportunity to meet the astonishing semi-nomadic Emberas community.
The next stage of your cruise: Rio Esquinas. You will ride aboard one of our zodiac dinghies to observe this lush environment where monumental mangroves and emblematic species reign supreme.
You will then enjoy a visit to the Curú Wildlife Refuge. Deep inside the tropical rainforest you may be lucky enough to see multicoloured birds, monkeys, iguanas and sloths.
The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : EU070124
Your itinerary
Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides. Discover the fabulous National Parks, biodiversity and tribes of Central America. UNESCO sites: The fortifications...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- Discover the fabulous National Parks, biodiversity and tribes of Central America.
- UNESCO sites: The fortifications of Portobelo; the Darien National Park from Playa Muerto, and its magnificent jungle.
- In Costa Rica, outings in the Curú Wildlife Refuge, sanctuaries of unspoiled nature.
- The magnificent San Blas archipelago and its fabulous underwater wildlife.
- Sail through the Panama Canal, truly a masterpiece of civil engineering.
- Fauna and lush flora: tropical forest, howler monkeys, sloths, tropical birds.
- Encounter with the indigenous Emberas tribe in the Darien National Park.
- In Panama, the opportunity to learn about the crafts and traditions of the Guna people in the San Blas Islands.
Ports of Call & Excursions
7 January 2024 - Colón
Embarkation 7/1/2024 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 7/1/2024 at 11:30 pm
Colón is the second largest city in Panama, at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Colón is today an important port, and the free trade zone created in 1953 contributed greatly to the development of the city. Colón was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts through the isthmus of Panama; the city rapidly overshadowed the older Caribbean ports of Panama when the canal opened.
8 January 2024 - Portobelo
Arrival 8/1/2024
Departure 8/1/2024
In the province of Colón, along the magnificent Caribbean coast of Panama, Portobelo is located not far from the famous canal. Given its name of “beautiful port” by Christopher Columbus, who discovered it in 1502, this charming and peaceful bay was one of the most important ports for the shipping of precious metals from the New World to Spain. Don’t miss a visit to its fortifications, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town has preserved the strong religious and cultural traditions of its colonial past, such as the veneration of the Black Christ and a strongly-rooted Afro-Caribbean culture. The Congo ceremonies retrace the story of Spanish domination over black slaves through traditional dances and music.
9 January 2024 10 January 2024 - San Blas Islands
Arrival 9/1/2024
Departure 10/1/2024
Located on the north-east coast of Panama, the San Blas archipelago is a string of coral islands in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. More than 300 islands and cays cover an area of 300 square kilometres offering travellers a multitude of treasures. Sheltered behind a long coral reef, the San Blas Islands are full of enchanting anchorages. The long sandy white beaches bound by crystal-clear waters will allow you to relax and enjoy incredible marine fauna before engaging with the Kunas Indian community. Still subsisting on hunting and fishing, they will welcome you in their villages of bamboo houses gathered near the beaches.
11 January 2024 - Crossing the Panama Canal
Arrival 11/1/2024
Departure 11/1/2024
Aboard your ship, experience something unique, that has inspired the imagination of numerous adventurers in the 20th century: sailing the Panama Canal. Its construction started in 1880 under the direction of Ferdinand de Lesseps. Abandoned then resumed, this marvel of engineering was completed by the United States and opened in 1914. The canal crosses the Isthmus of Panama and links the Atlantic to the Pacific. Including three levels of locks and by raising ships to the level of Lake Gatun, almost as if the water was a lift, it allows them to avoid having to round Cape Horn.
12 January 2024 - Sailing around Pacheca island
Arrival 12/1/2024
Departure 12/1/2024
Pacheca is a small uninhabited island in the far north of the Pearl Islands, home to numerous birds that our naturalist guides will help you to observe and recognise from the ship’s deck. The Pearl Islands archipelago, formed by over 220 islands and islets, is named in memory of the pearl oysters present in the Gulf of Panama. In colonial times, the pearls were extracted and used as ornaments or currency. “La Peregrina” was discovered in this archipelago: this pearl is famous for its perfection and for belonging to several royals and, more recently, Elizabeth Taylor.
12 January 2024 - Pearls Islands
Arrival 12/1/2024
Departure 12/1/2024
The Pearl Islands archipelago, formed by over 220 islands and islets, is named in memory of the pearl oysters present in the Gulf of Panama. In colonial times, the pearls were extracted and used as ornaments or currency. “La Peregrina” was discovered in this archipelago: this pearl is famous for its perfection and for belonging to several royals and, more recently, Elizabeth Taylor. While the pearls have now disappeared from the azure waters of this paradise with its history of adventures and piracy, you can still swim from the sandy white beaches and observe shoals of multi-coloured fish performing their gracious ballet.
13 January 2024 - Playa Muerto, Darien National Park
Arrival 13/1/2024
Departure 13/1/2024
The most remote and least developed region of Panama, the province of Darien is an unspoilt land with an extremely rich variety of flora and fauna. Listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, Darien National Park offers its extraordinary scenery of rocky coastlines, mountain ranges, mangroves, rivers and creeks. Discover Playa Muerto, a tiny coastal village home to the Emberas Amerindian community. You will visit the village, attend traditional songs and dances of the locals, and admire beautiful local craft.
14 January 2024 - Cébaco Island
Arrival 14/1/2024
Departure 14/1/2024
Off the Pacific coast of Panama, at the entrance to the Gulf of Montijo, Cebaco Island conjures visions of paradise lost. Covered in tropical rainforest, edged by white sandy beaches, home to exceptionally rich plant and wildlife, the island offers a number of hiking routes along which to discover its pristine natural environment. Its magnificent coral reefs, located in the outlying regions of the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are the refuge for many marine species and offer stunning underwater landscapes.
15 January 2024 - Rio Esquinas
Arrival 15/1/2024
Departure 15/1/2024
The beauty of Costa Rica and the richness of its biodiversity reveal themselves at this port of call in the heart of the mangrove. In the meanders of Rio Esquinas, a tropical corner of paradise, you will discover an incredibly dense ecosystem. Aboard your Zodiac dinghy, you will brush past the tangled arms formed by the roots of the mangrove trees. This green and lush gallery forest and its inhabitants welcome you. Watch closely: common squirrel monkeys, white ibis, Eurasian whimbrels, ospreys, toucans, snowy egrets and great blue herons can be found hiding here.
16 January 2024 - Curú Wildlife Refuge
Arrival 16/1/2024
Departure 16/1/2024
On the southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula, the small Curú Wildlife Refuge is the oldest protected park in Costa Rica. This refuge is an exemplary site in terms of ecotourism as well as a research centre for scientists from all over the world. It has been at the heart of an original conservation and sustainable development project since the 1930s. After a short zodiac trip, you will discover, via the paths that criss-cross the tropical forest and lead to magnificent beaches, the most emblematic species of Costa Rica: monkeys, iguanas and over 200 bird species. Since their recent reintroduction, the scarlet macaw and the spider monkey have thrived in this preserved environment.
17 January 2024 - Puntarenas
Arrival 17/1/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 17/1/2024 at 7:00 am
The capital of the eponymous province, Puntarenas is sometimes called “the pearl of the Pacific”, for its unique charm. It sits on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, along the Gulf of Nicoya, lined with long expanses of wild natural environments. Further inland, among the countless natural wonders to be found in the generous rainforest of the Costa Rica’s national parks, Poas and Arena volcanoes towers up in all their majestic glory. In this luxuriant natural setting, Costa Rica protects one of the planet’s richest biodiversity: monkeys, sloths, tropical birds, iguanas, crocodiles, waterfalls, canyons, and more than ten thousand species of tropical plants.
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, an underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
CULTURAL AND NATURAL HERITAGE OF PANAMA (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of four days to discover the richness of Panama City's historic centre, not forgetting the monumental canal and the famous locks opening the passage to gigantic ships from coast to coast. This programme will be a pleasant prelude to your embarkation.Day 1 – Panama City
Meet at Panama City Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Sofitel Legend Casco Antiguo 5*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Panama City
After breakfast, You will depart for a visit of Panama City’s famous landmarks. You will be taken first to Miraflores locks, the so-called “Eighth Wonder of the world”. Panama Canal is one of the most celebrated human achievements on the planet. Upon arrival at Miraflores Visitors Centre, you will visit the exhibition halls and learn about the Panama Canal’s history, its impact on international trade, how it works, its close relationship with nature and the Canal Expansion. From one of Miraflores observation terraces, you will be able to watch the lock gates open and close as vessels begin or end their transit, and you may observe transiting vessels from a distance of only a few meters while you learn about the various operations of the Panama Canal (cannot be guaranteed depending on Panama Canal timetable).
You will then discover the turbulent past of Panama City, in Casco Antiguo (or Casco Viejo) which is the historic part and the cultural gem of this vibrant metropolis. After the destruction of the first Panama City by pirate Henry Morgan, Casco Antiguo became the second Panama City. It was established around 1673 by French colonialists, the Catholic Church and other settlers. This is where much of the impressive colonial and Baroque architecture remains today. The modern, cosmopolitan areas of Panama City add a third layer to this historically rich city. Casco Antiguo has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.
You will continue with the visit of the Mola Museum that opened in 2019. It was created to give relevance to the ancient culture of the Guna people represented in the mola. The mola is an indigenous textile art sewn into panels with complex designs, beautiful colours and multiple layers using a reverse appliqué technique that identifies the Guna community in Panama, you will enjoy beautiful display of many pieces at this small one floor quaint museum.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
After lunch, take part to a private Mola workshop with a Guna woman and artisan who through her art safeguards the traditions of her people and pays tribute to their culture, inspired mainly by the biodiversity of Panama. The workshop will last more than 2 hours, starting with the history and meaning of the Molas in Panama, and continuing with the project that consist in the creation of a handkerchief.
Walk back to your hotel.
Dinner at leisure.
Day 3 – Panama City
After breakfast, you will depart by coach for Gamboa (approximately a 1 h drive).
You will be taken a boat trip through the Panama Canal waterways to visit the islands that once upon time were mountains and were created when the area was flooded to form the Gatun Lake. You will also visit the sloth sanctuary, orquiderarium, butterfly house, fresh water aquarium and snake house.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will visit the Old Panama Ruins, first European city built in the Pacific coast of the Americas.
Return to the hotel, rest of the day and dinner at leisure.
Day 4 – Panama City - Colon
Start your last day at the Biomuseo, also called the Gehry’s Museum in honour of its world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The building is designed to recall the creation of the isthmus of Panama which linked two continents and changed the planet’s biodiversity forever. The event that would change natural history for both continents occurred around three million years ago. Species from both continents mingled as northern animals went south and southern animals went north. The Biomuseo’s 4,000 square metres describe the country’s rich biodiversity.
You will proceed to the restaurant for lunch.
Continue with the Agua Clara Locks is the largest project at the Canal since its original construction that created a new lane of traffic along the Canal through the construction of a new set of locks, doubling the waterway’s capacity, be a witness of this major undertaking by visiting the New Observation Centre of the Canal Expansion.
The new Observation Centre of the Canal Expansion, located in Colon Panama, is a park style concept based on open platforms and roofed terraces, built in an area of four hectares, 400 visitors, simultaneously, will be able to enjoy in this new centre, the construction of the new locks of the Panama Canal in the Atlantic, at the same time, from its privileged location, visitors see the majestic Gatun Lake, where ships continue their transit through the waterway.
You will then be transferred to the port of Colón to embark aboard your ship.
Your hotel:
The Sofitel Legend Casco Antiguo 5* is located in the heart of the Casco Antiguo of Panama City, a UNESCO protected site and declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations. It enjoys a privileged location facing the sea, facilities that blend historical heritage with modernity and impeccable service. It is an architectural beauty, built in the Bay of Panama City with important buildings around such as the National Theatre, the San José del Altar de Oro Church and a few minutes from the Biomuseo. The hotel features 3 restaurants and cafés, 2 bars and the largest outdoor pool deck in Casco Antiguo.
Your programme includes:
-
3-nights accommodation in Plaza View room at Sofitel Legend Casco Antiguo 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
-
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
-
Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 glass of wine or 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers, visits, entrance fees and activities as mentioned in the programme.
-
The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Dinners.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Visa if necessary.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- This programme involves walking on uneven and paved terrain.
-
This programme involves walking uphill in the Old Town.
-
This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotel:
Sofitel Legend Casco Antiguo
Calle Primera Oeste, San Felipe, Casco Viejo
0843 PANAMA CITY
PANAMA
Telephone: +507 302-4300
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$2,180
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
DISCOVER PANAMA CITY (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of two days to discover the richness of Panama City's historic centre, not forgetting the monumental canal and the famous locks opening the passage to gigantic ships from coast to coast. This programme will be a pleasant prelude to your embarkation.
Day 1 - Panama City
Meet at the airport – Arrival Hall (look for PONANT sign).
You will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred directly to the hotel Hilton Panama 5*.
Check-in and dinner at leisure.
Day 2 - Panama City/Colón
Breakfast and check-out.
You will first discover the turbulent past of Panama City, in Casco Antiguo (or Casco Viejo) which is the historic part and the cultural gem of this vibrant metropolis. After the destruction of the first Panama City by pirate Henry Morgan, Casco Antiguo became the second Panama City. It was established around 1673 by French colonialists, the Catholic Church and other settlers. This is where much of the impressive colonial and Baroque architecture remains today. The modern, cosmopolitan areas of Panama City add a third layer to this historically rich city. You will get the chance to explore on your own this neighbourhood of Casco Antiguo with its colonial style government buildings, old churches and grand plazas. Casco Antiguo has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.
You will then be taken to Miraflores locks, the so-called “Eighth Wonder of the world”. Panama Canal is one of the most celebrated human achievements on the planet. Upon arrival at Miraflores Visitors Centre, you will visit the exhibition halls and learn about the Panama Canal’s history, its impact on international trade, how it works, its close relationship with nature and the Canal Expansion. From one of Miraflores observation terraces, you will be able to watch the lock gates open and close as vessels begin or end their transit, and you may observe transiting vessels from a distance of only a few meters while you learn about the various operations of the Panama Canal (cannot be guaranteed depending on Panama Canal timetable).
After a transfer to Gamboa, lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
You will continue with a boat trip through the Panama Canal waterways to visit the islands that once upon time were mountains and were created when the area was flooded to form the Gatun Lake. You will also visit the orquiderarium, butterfly house, fresh water aquarium and snake house.
You will then be transferred to the port of Colón to embark aboard your ship.
Your hotel :
The Hilton Panama 5* is a few steps away from the ocean front walkway, and two blocks away from the Financial District. Guest rooms offer views of the Panama Bay and the Pacific Ocean. They feature contemporary design and modern amenities including Wi-Fi access and a HDTV. You will find at your disposal a fitness centre, a spa and a rooftop pool.
Your programme includes :
-
1-night accommodation in ocean view room at the hotel Hilton Panama 5* (or similar).
-
Lunch as described in the programme with beverage package (mineral water + 1 glass of wine or 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide.
-
Hospitality desk at the hotel on your day of arrival.
Your programme does not include:
-
Meals of day 1.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Visa if necessary.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Hilton Hotel
Balboa Avenida & Aquilino de la Guardia
Panama City, PANAMA
Telephone: + 507 280 8000
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$620
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
SAN JOSÉ, BOTANICAL GARDENS AND THE GOLD MUSEUM
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Puerto Caldera/San José
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
First, you will be taken to Else Kientzler Botanical Garden, located in the scenic town of Sarchi, in the west side of the Central Valley. Follow your local tour guide on a very educational walk at the Else´s tropical gardens where the paths are designed to follow an order for the many different gardens like the heliconia's, the bromeliads, the succulent's.
Continue to San José, you will have lunch in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will start a tour of San José city centre. Discover the culture and history of Costa Rica's capital city by visiting some of its historic residential areas, La Sabana Metropolitan Park, and the National Theatre, an icon of the San José of the late 19th century. You will also visit the Gold Museum, one of the few Pre-Columbian gold museums that exists worldwide. The exhibition consists of 1,000 original pieces that date from 300 to 1500 A.C. including an extraordinary collection of golden objects that reflect these precious metal working techniques of the Pre-Columbian people of Costa Rica. The exhibition shows the use, function, and technology of the pieces as well as their connection to nature and people daily life.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Lunch with beverages package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : AU$360
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
NATURAL WONDERS OF COSTA RICA (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Puntarenas/La Fortuna
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
Board your coach for a 3-hour transfer to your hotel Amor Arenal.
Lunch will be served at the hotel.
Check-in your room.
The afternoon will be spent at the Arenal Volcano National Park.
Known worldwide for its near perfect cone shape, Arenal volcano has become a must-see destination when coming to Costa Rica. Its volcanic activity and its surrounding natural beauty make this a very exciting hiking destination.
For centuries, locals considered Arenal as a mountain. However, on July 29, 1968 in the morning, the supposed mountain suddenly erupted. The eruptions continued non-stop for several days, covering more than 15 square kilometres with lava, rocks and as. Three towns were destroyed. Up to 2010, Arenal volcano remains quite active, often spewing out rocks, lava, ash and smoke.
Return to the hotel.
Time at leisure, dinner will be served at the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – La Fortuna/Tenorio/La Fortuna
After breakfast, board your coach for 1,5 hours bus ride to Tenorio National Park.
Located in the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range, this park has a rainforest that protects species of wildlife of regional importance. Within the area, the Tenorio Volcano, with its four cones, it offers natural scenic overlooks that allow appreciate the plains of the Pacific and Caribbean.
Walk through through the park along with your guide and observe the beautiful nature around you and arrive at Rio Celeste. Celeste means light blue, the color of one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. If the weather allows it, you may be able to observe it with your own eyes. There is a local indigenous legend that tells that after God finished painting the skies, he washed the brushes in the Celeste River.
After your walk, enjoy lunch in a local restaurant located a few minutes from the National Park.
Return to your hotel.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
Enjoy a private cocktail masterclass.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 3 – La Fortuna/San José
After breakfast, you will depart for a morning cruise on-board an inflatable boat along the Peñas Blancas River.
This clear water river is fed by the pristine waters of several private cloud forest reserves in Monteverde, and is surrounded by lush rainforest, natural volcanic hot springs, waterfalls and forested canyons. In other words, the Peñas Blancas River is an indisputable scenic adventure.
Enjoy the sights and the sounds of the rainforest and experience its peacefulness as you quietly paddle the Peñas Blancas River. You may be lucky enough to see monkeys, sloths, iguanas, crocodiles, and numerous tropical birds. Your local English-speaking guide will share information with you about the plants and animals you might encounter during your journey down river. You will truly appreciate the wonders of Peñas Blancas River and the surrounding rainforest as you travel down the river. Make sure to bring your camera and binoculars.
Return to the hotel, time to refresh and check-out.
Lunch will be served at the hotel.
Transfer to a small finca and experience a local coffee experience with the owner.
Board your coach for a 1,5 hours drive to San José and check-in your hotel Hilton San José La Sabana.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 4 – San José
Breakfast at the hotel.
Late check-out is included until 5 pm.
Day at leisure.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotels:
The Amor Arenal hotel is located in at the foothill of the Arenal volcano, on the edge of a virgin forest canyon overlooking the rainforest. You may enjoy the thermal springs of the hotel to relax and benefit from its wonderful environment. Each cabin features a deck overlooking the canyon with volcano view and a private spa-plunge pool.
Located in front of the National Stadium and La Sabana Park, Hilton San José La Sabana is in Costa Rica’s tallest building, the Leumi Business Center. It is located four kilometers from Downtown San Jose and the city center, the Central Market, and the National Theater. Enjoy spectacular views of the city from the 31st floor pool, or from the restaurant on the 18th floor.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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2-nights accommodation in Bungalow Canyon Casita at Amor Arenal 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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1-night accommodation in Standard room at Hilton San José La Sabana 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Late check-out until 5pm at Hilton San José La Sabana 5*.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
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The walk in Arenal National Park is split into two trails of 1.2km and 1.7 km long and involves walking on uneven ground. You may choose to walk along with your guide on both trails or either one of the two.
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The walk in Tenorio National Park is 2.4km long and ends at Tenorio Waterfall. You will be given free time to wonder around Tenorio river and observe the colors before returning to the main entrance along with your guide.
Contact of your hotel:
Amor Arenal Hotel
21007, La Fortuna, Alajuela
Alajuela, Costa Rica
Téléphone : +506 2479 7070
Hilton San José La Sabana
San Jose, 10109, Costa Rica
506-2220-9000
Duration and order of the visits may vary.To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$3,970
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.