Days 1-2 Marvel at the Panama Canal, a century-old engineering feat of epic proportions On the lookout for monkeys, sloths and a multitude of birds, hike in the splendid Parque Metropolitano, a tropical forest within the Panama City limits Step back in time on our walking tour of Panama City’s Casco Viejo, a World Heritage site brimming with ornate French and Spanish Colonial architecture Boat to nearby Taboga Island, “Island of Flowers,” for a challenging hike with stunning views Painter Paul Gauguin once tried to buy land on this island! On a special after-hours tour, our guide at the Miraflores Locks shares the Panama Canal’s fascinating history. Day 3 Journey beneath mighty Barú Volcano, relishing the cool highland air and stunning forest that surrounds you With a little luck, you might even spot the elusive quetzal, one of the most striking birds of the tropics After a scenic flight to David in western Panama, shuttle into the verdant Cordillera Central mountain range At Finca Drácula, at the edge of a magical World Biosphere Reserve, experience the largest collection of rare orchids in Latin America. Days 4-6 Hike on the famed Sendero Los Quetzales alongside an expert naturalist As you stride amid misty cloud forest, clear streams, palms and bamboo forest, you’ll understand why this trail is considered one of Central America’s best hiking routes Taste the best of Panama’s “black gold” during a tour and guided walk at historic Finca Lerida, a lush 900-acre coffee plantation Before flying back to Panama City, walk to a private sanctuary dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation of animals including howler and white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths, ocelots and coatimundis.

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