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12 Day Natural Beauty of Costa Rica & Panama

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12
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Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Countries Visited

Costa Rica , Panama

DAY 1, Friday - Depart for Costa Rica
Depart for Costa Rica. Arrive in the capital city of San Jose, surrounded by lush green valleys and mountains. Transfer to your hotel. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 5 PM
Overnight: San Jose

DAY 2, Saturday - Travel to Tortuguero
Today, depart San Jose and travel east to the shores of the Caribbean Coast. View lush vegetation along with acres of banana plantations, one of Costa Rica's major exports. At a nearby port, board a motor launch that takes you to the canals in the heart of the Costa Rican jungle. Arrive at the lodge in Tortuguero in time for lunch. Afterward, take a boat to the village for a walking tour. Learn about the conservation efforts developed to protect sea turtles that come to nest here each year. Continue with a cacao tour, and get a glimpse into the process of harvesting, fermenting and drying of the cacao beans. Tonight, take a walk around the grounds with a chance to observe a variety of wildlife and spot different species of frogs, followed by dinner at the lodge
Overnight: Tortuguero
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3, Sunday - Explore Tortuguero
Awake this morning to the sounds of the jungle in one of the most remote areas of Costa Rica filled with abundant biodiversity. Acquaint yourself with the many tree and insect species of Costa Rica on an easy guided hike through trails in the nearby rainforest. After lunch, a boat takes you through remote unspoiled sections of the park's waterways on the winding canals where you're likely to view turtles, caimans, monkeys, and many colorful tropical birds thriving in the wild. Watch the sunset while enjoying a drink and dinner on a floating platform gently gliding along the canals
Overnight: Tortuguero
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Monday - Arenal Volcano National Park
Travel by motor launch and motor coach to Arenal, famous for its volcano. After lunch, hike along one of the trails in Arenal Volcano National Park. Learn about the flora and fauna of the area, while enjoying views of the volcano. This evening, relax in the renowned hot springs of Arenal. The family-owned EcoTermales has four different pools ranging in temperature from 91 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, surrounded by the endemic flora of the rainforest. These soothing hot springs are a great way to wind down after a long journey. Later, savor a traditional Costa Rican dinner
Overnight: Arenal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Tuesday - Travel to Manuel Antonio
Opportunity for birdwatching before departing Arenal. Travel through scenic mountains and along the Pacific Coast to Manuel Antonio, with its sandy beaches and tropical forest. On the way, embark on a crocodile boat tour that includes lunch. Opportunity to view crocodiles up-close in their natural habitat. Later, pass through the town of Jaco, a surfer's paradise, before continuing to Manuel Antonio
Overnight: Manuel Antonio
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 6, Wednesday - Manuel Antonio National Park, Catamaran Boat Tour
Begin the day with a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. Opportunity to discover the mangrove swamps, numerous species of mammals and birds, along with beach vegetation and lagoons. In the afternoon, embark on a catamaran cruise. Stop in a peaceful cove of the secluded Biesanz Beach for a light lunch on board along with snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters with sightings of colorful tropical fish. Celebrate the last night in Costa Rica with dinner at a popular restaurant
Overnight: Manuel Antonio
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 7, Thursday - Border Crossing to Panama, Farm Visit
Leave your tropical surroundings of Manuel Antonio behind and travel south towards Panama. After border formalities, visit a farm to get a glimpse into the daily life of farmers. Conclude the tour with a home-cooked lunch of local specialties. Continue to Boquete, known as "Valley of the Flowers," nestled in Chiriquí Highlands. The town is surrounded by lush forests, mountains and coffee plantations. In the evening, have dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Boquete
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Friday - Baru Volcano, Coffee Tour
Rise very early this morning for a unique experience! Depart on a jeep adventure to Baru Volcano. At an elevation of 11,400 feet, the volcano is the tallest mountain in Panama. Drive uphill through the challenging terrain to reach the summit. At the top, witness the sunrise and enjoy a picnic style breakfast. Admire the panoramas of both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea (weather permitting). Afterward, return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, head to town for lunch and free time to explore. Then, get a glimpse into the history of coffee, its production, and what makes the perfect brew during the tour of a coffee farm. Some of the best coffee is grown and processed in Boquete. Top off your visit with a delicious coffee tasting. Return to the hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Boquete
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Saturday - Travel to Chitre
Today, depart Boquete and travel to Chitre. En route, stop to watch a local artisan, as he creates masks from paper-mâché. These masks are a colorful part of Panama's folklore. Continue the drive on the Azuero Peninsula and visit a local workshop. Witness a demonstration of how the traditional pollera dress is made. Arrive in Chitre in the afternoon and check into your room. Spend time at leisure before dinner tonight
Overnight: Chitre
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 10, Sunday - Miraflores Locks, Panama City
This morning, travel to Panama City, the capital of Panama and home to the Panama Canal. Arrive in the small town of Gamboa, where you board a boat and sail along Gatun Lake. Savor a light lunch on board, before visiting the Miraflores Locks, to observe how ships cross the locks. At the Miraflores Visitor Center, learn about the construction and history of the Panama Canal. Afterward, take a driving tour of Panama City before checking in to the hotel. Remainder of the evening is at leisure
Overnight: Panama City
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11, Monday - Chagres National Park, Embera Village
Begin your Embera experience with a drive to Chagres National Park, in the eastern sector of the Panama Canal. Here, board a traditional piragua (paddle dugout canoe) that takes you on a journey to meet the indigenous Embera tribe, known as the "keepers of the rainforest." You'll be welcomed by the locals who are proud to share their culture and traditions. Watch women demonstrate their native art, as they craft baskets out of palm leaves. Explore the local flora and learn about the medicinal uses of each plant. After a specially prepared traditional lunch, return back to your hotel. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of Casco Antiguo, the old quarter of Panama City. This evening, bid farewell to your Tour Manager at dinner
Overnight: Panama City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12, Tuesday - Depart Panama
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Inclusions

Package Includes

  • Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
  • Flights Miami-San Jose, Panama City-Miami
  • Other departure cities available.
  • Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
  • 11 nights accommodations
  • 1 night San Jose
  • 2 nights Tortuguero
  • 1 night Arenal
  • 2 nights Manuel Antonio
  • 2 nights Boquete
  • 1 night Chitre
  • 2 nights Panama City
  • Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
  • Hotel porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • 26 meals: 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
  • Services of local English-speaking tour manager throughout
  • Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
  • Active itinerary with unique cultural features

  • Tour Highlights

    Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.

  • Embark on a boat tour along the Tortuguero canals, through the heart of the Costa Rican jungle
  • Relax in the soothing waters of the renowned geothermal hot springs of Arenal
  • Experience Manuel Antonio National Park, filled with wildlife and beautiful scenery
  • Tour a farm and enjoy an authentic home-cooked Panamanian lunch
  • Explore picturesque Boquete, known as "Valley of the Flowers", nestled in Chiriquí Highlands
  • An exhilarating jeep adventure to the summit of Baru Volcano, the tallest mountain in Panama
  • Get a glimpse into the history of coffee, its production, and what makes the perfect brew during a tour of a coffee farm
  • View Miraflores Locks, at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal
  • Discover Chagres National Park, in the eastern sector of the Panama Canal, home to the Embera village and people
  • †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

    Not Included:
    Gratuities.


    Additional Information:
    Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

    Passport information must be submitted to us Travel at least 30 days prior to departure.

    Health and Safety Protocols for Discovery By Gate1 Tours

    At Gate 1 we take your safety and security very seriously. We have a strong network of tour managers, local offices, ground operators and colleagues which help us stay informed in all the destinations that we operate. We closely monitor local situations which enable us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our tours running safely. Millions of people travel the world each year and experience enjoyable and safe trips but crimes against people and property are sadly a fact of life. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Please remember that you have the same responsibility for your personal safety and possessions as you do at home. It is essential to prepare for a safe and healthy travel abroad. Therefore before you travel, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the US Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for up-to-date travel advice on the countries that you are visiting. The website provides useful information on subjects such as safety and security information, health precautions and medications, health insurance and additional tips for traveling abroad. If you do not reside in the United States, we recommend you check your government's travel advisory website for any country you will be visiting. We recommend that you review the safety guidance that may be provided by us, our agents or suppliers, either before you go or when you arrive in your destination. You can also find helpful tips on our website in the "Trip Preparation" tab of each of our tour packages. We do know that in-spite of careful planning, things can sometimes still go wrong, so rest assured, we will be there to help and support you.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

    Accommodations

    Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
    This first class hotel is located in the heart of San Juan, on the Avenida Central pedestrian boulevard.

    Aninga Boutique Hotel
    This superior tourist class hotel is located a short distance away from the main entrance of Tortuguero National Park.

    Tilajari Resort
    This tourist class hotel is set amidst tropical gardens in the lush San Carlos Valley.

    Jungle Vista Boutique Hotel
    This tourist class hotel is situated on the hills of the Manuel Antonio rainforest, less than a mile from Biesanz Beach.

    Valle Escondido Resort Golf & Spa
    This first class hotel is located in the town of Boquete, at the foot of the Baru Volcano.

    Cubita Hotel
    This tourist class hotel is located in Chitre, close to downtown and the beaches.

    Cubita Hotel
    This tourist class hotel is located in Chitre, close to downtown and the beaches.

    Cubita Hotel
    This tourist class hotel is located in Chitre, close to downtown and the beaches.

    Cubita Hotel
    This tourist class hotel is located in Chitre, close to downtown and the beaches.

    Hotel Mykonos
    This first class hotel is located on the Pan-American Highway, near the Santiago Mall.

    Hotel Mykonos
    This first class hotel is located on the Pan-American Highway, near the Santiago Mall.

    Hotel Mykonos
    This first class hotel is located on the Pan-American Highway, near the Santiago Mall.

    Central Hotel Panama
    This first class hotel is located in the Old Town in the heart of Panama City, across from Independence Square.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

    Questions & Answers

    Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

    Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

    Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

    Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

    Discovery By Gate1 Tours Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.3
    Accommodations
    4.1
    Itinerary
    4.4
    Professional Staff
    4.6
    Repeat with Operator
    4.3
    Value for Money
    4.1

    Ratings based off 408 reviews about Discovery By Gate1 Tours - currently showing 15 reviews with comments only

    This was an amazing trip. It exceeded my expectations. I loved it. My tour guide did an excellent job. She made sure to assist us even late in the evening with tickets as we are still in Japan and not leaving until two after the tour. She surprised us with unexpected, unplanned experiences for all to enjoy. I loved her. We really had so much fun even though there older tourists with different personalities she went beyond the call of duty to understand and have patience with them. I will definitely book a future tour with Gate1.

    Superb experience and guides were great.

    The trip to Jordan was fabulous. The accommodations were lovely. Our guide was excellent. His knowledge was superb. He had good humor & was kind & patient. I have been on every continent & have traveled with different companies. This is in my top 3 trips of all the places I have been. I loved this country. The people & sites were wonderful. Please let Gate 1 know this guide deserves recognition. He was the best.

    This was a fantastic trip with varied activities and a superb tour guide.

    Exalent trip we are so pleased with the service we will call you to plan the next trip

    The Gate1 tour guide/managers were very knowledgeable, courteous, professional and entertaining.

    Gate 1's tour operators are very good. It is organized and follows the published itinerary. The hotels are nice and as described.

    Trip was great experience. Enjoyed the itinerary and tour manager.

    Great experience. Our personal guide very experienced and personal. First class hotels and great excursions.

    Our accommodations were excellent. The tour was fabulous. The logistics for booking and traveling were clear and easy.

    Everyone from our agent (Trena) to our our guide (Fred) were awesome. Would highly recommend gate 1 to any and all. Went above and beyond our expectations..JOB WELL DONE!!! Thanks for a great vacation..

    This was a great tour. All the places we visited were worth seeing, and the combination of activities was very good.

    The rooms, the meals, the bus, and the tour guide were superior. The tour was more than expected. All our questions and needs were met. The whole operation was well managed and smooth.

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