Chagres National Park – El Valle Mountain Town – San Blas
Begin your stay in Panama with a visit to an Embera community in Chagres National Park, where you will have to opportunity to learn about the ancient and fascinating way of life of these Indians. Then travel to El Valle, a charming mountain town in the crater of an extinct volcano high above the Panamanian Pacific coast. Finally, you will be one of few people to stay in the San Blas Islands, the autonomous region of the Guna Indians. This expedition is affordably priced and includes some of Panama's most interesting Amerindian cultures.
Tour Program (7 Days / 6 Nights)
Day 1: Arrive Panama
Arrive at the international airport, where you will be met by our driver and taken to your hotel in Panama City. Overnight at hotel of your choice in the city.
Day 2: Chagres National Park/Indian Village
After breakfast visit a paradise found in its purest form. This tour leaves Panama City at 8:30 AM and begins with a ride in a "piragua" (a native boat) along the route commonly used by the Indians for their daily transport along the Chagres River. A hike through a forest follows, with a local indigenous guide and an expert guide to explain botanical novelties and the culture of this authentic Chocoe-Embera village. In the village, the tribe will share their culture through dances, rituals, food, etc. You will have the opportunity to partake in "jagua", body painting with vegetable ink. Arrival back in Panama City is estimated at 4:00 PM. (BL)
Day 3: El Valle Mountain Town
This excursion begins early with a two-hour drive along the Pan-American Highway to the beautiful mountain town of El Valle de Anton in the province of Cocle. According to geologists, El Valle is the crater of a dormant volcano, probably the largest in Central America. With a cool and pleasant climate, this picturesque valley rises 600 meters above sea level. This small town has a great variety of attractions such as Indian petroglyphs, hot springs, waterfalls, rock climbing and a variety of hikes for all abilities. Upon arrival, visit the picturesque Sunday Indian Market where large selections of native and national handicrafts are on sale. The tour continues with a visit to the ancient petroglyphs of the El Chorro Macho Waterfall and a trip to the Nispero Gardens and Zoo where you can observe the rare "golden frogs" found only in this area. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Panama City in the late afternoon. (BL)
Day 4: San Blas Islands
Early morning departure for a 20-minute flight to Playon Chico airstrip on Panama's Atlantic Coast. Transfer by motorized dugout canoe to the Hotel Yandup Lodge on Yandup Island. The lodge is located approximately in the center of the Guna Yala Reserve. Visit the surrounding islands and home of the Guna Indians whose culture, traditions and beautiful beaches remain virtually undisturbed. Featuring delicious San Blas seafood at lunch and dinner. (BLD)
Day 5: San Blas Islands
Rent (or bring your own) snorkeling gear and explore the beautiful reefs of this area. You can also tour a neighboring island and swim in crystal-clear waters. Relax on white sand beaches or in a hammock under palms while enjoying the San Blas Islands. (BLD)
Day 6: Panama City
Early morning return from San Blas for flight back to Panama City. Free afternoon for relaxing and shopping. Show and folkloric dinner at Tinajas Restaurant. Overnight at a hotel in the city. (BD)
Day 7: Depart Panama…
Transfer to the international airport approximately two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time.
Request A Quote
Check availability and make a reservation:
This package includes:
Accommodations.
Transfers.
English speaking guide services.
Meals and activities as indicated on the itinerary.
Entrance fees to national parks and other attractions as specified.
Information kit and all taxes.
Not included:
Optional activities.
International airfare.
Gratuities
Personal expenses and airport departure tax ($20).
Meals not specified in the itinerary.
Alcoholic beverages.
Personal equipment.
Extras in hotels (e.g., laundry, phone calls, room service).
