Day 1 : Fly to San José

Today we board our flight to the tropical paradise of Costa Rica. Upon arrival we meet our local guide and check in to our beautifully-appointed hotel in San José.

Day 2 : Doka Coffee

Enjoy a delicious breakfast every morning of our tour! Our sightseeing commences at the Doka Coffee Estate where we discover the history of traditional coffee growers. Costa Rica’s rich history with coffee dates back to the 1700s, and the celebrated bean is a centerpiece of Costa Rican economics and culture to this day. Begin with picking ripened coffee berries and follow production to the roasting hall where fresh heavenly scents fill the air. Indulge in some of the best coffee in the world and delight your taste buds with a cup or purchase coffee grounds to bring home. Afterward, we depart for our charming boutique accommodations in Arenal and enjoy views of the tropical landscape along the way.

Day 3 : Wildlife Refuge Tour

Offering a glimpse into one of the richest and most biologically diverse ecosystems in Costa Rica, the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge and Rio Frio is home to monkeys, iguanas, sloths, turtles and more. This wildlife sanctuary is one of the world’s most important wetlands for protecting endangered species. We gain access to the refuge via the village of Los Chiles near the Nicaraguan border, then board a riverboat for an adventurous photo safari through tropical rainforest and along pastures en route to a fascinating marshland. We return to the Arenal area with dinner on our own this evening.

Day 4 : Arenal Volcano National Park

Keep your camera handy as we join our Costa Rican guide for a hike in Arenal Volcano National Park to admire the mountain ridges covered in verdant rainforest and search for extraordinary wildlife. We take in spectacular views of Lake Arenal, the largest lake in Costa Rica and an important provider of hydroelectric power for the country. Next, we go on a scenic motorcoach journey across the continental divide towards the Pacific Ocean for a one-night stay in Monteverde.

Day 5 : Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Enjoy a guided hike through Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve this morning. Be sure to keep an eye out for beautiful wildlife and a spectacular waterfall as you walk throughout this iconic lush forest with low-hanging clouds. Later, we learn about the unique amphibians and reptiles of Costa Rica at Herpetarium Adventures and view exotic frogs, toads, and snakes up close. Afterwards, explore the pleasant oceanside town of Puntarenas on our way to San José.

Day 6 : Welcome to Panama

After breakfast, we say adios to the lush beauty of Costa Rica and board a short flight to Panama. We arrive in Panama City and are greeted at the airport by our local guide. Then, we check in to our Panama City hotel and enjoy an included dinner and evening of relaxation.

Day 7 : Embera Quera Community

Captivating culture and striking scenery await us today at the Embera Quera Indigenous Community. We enjoy a scenic boat ride up the Chagres River to the village where a local ambassador teaches us about their culture, language, and way of life. We’re treated to a savory lunch before observing a delightful display of local music and dance with a chance to join in on the fun. Take time to shop their selection of handmade crafts before we return to our accommodations.

Day 8 : Panama City Tour

Expansive Panama City lays out before us as we embark on a city tour. Stroll through historic Casco Viejo, Panama City’s Old Quarter, originally founded by the Spanish and later plundered by the infamous pirate Henry Morgan. Throughout our tour, appreciate the parks and plazas that seamlessly combine Italian, French, and Spanish colonial architecture including the magnificent golden altar at San José Church. Our exploration ends with a visit to Panama City’s colorful Biomuseo, a museum highlighting the natural history of Panama with artful exhibits showcasing the area’s biodiversity and natural history. Dinner is included at our hotel tonight.

Day 9 : Panama Canal

Today is filled with excitement as we travel through the historic Panama Canal. We board the Pacific Queen to begin our incredible journey through the locks where lakes and rivers traverse the waterway. Take in the sweeping sands of the Bay of Panama and the towering skyline of Panama City before passing under the Bridge of the Americas. After completing our partial transit, we disembark our ship in the town of Gamboa and drive to the Agua Clara Locks, the northernmost locks of Panama Canal. Here we will watch ships pass through the locks and view the Atlantic Bridge, which opened in 2019 and spans the entire width of the canal. Later, we return to Panama City for an included Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner and folkloric show with traditional Panamanian music and dancing.

Day 10 : Return Home

Fly home with marvelous memories of our vacation in Central America.