The Panama Canal, Pearl Islands and Darien Jungle

Arrive in Panama City and transfer to Port Balboa to board the National Geographic Quest. Choose an optional pre-voyage extension in Panama City and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Lorenzo. Begin the Panama Canal transit at Gatun Locks.

Arrive along the coast of Darién Province and explore Punta Patiño Nature Reserve, Panama’s largest private reserve. Reach the beaches by Zodiac, observe birds like mangrove hawks and roseate spoonbills, and spot crab-eating raccoons or crocodiles. Walk the shore, kayak in shallow bays, or continue exploring by Zodiac.

Playa Muerto village is located in Darién National Park, the largest protected area in Central America and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park contains an exceptional array of habitats, from sandy beaches and mangroves to dense tropical forests teeming with wildlife. It is also home to the indigenous Emberá and Wounaan tribes. You’ll be greeted by village leaders from the Emberá who will share their customs, traditions and stories about their deep respect for their natural surroundings. Later on, enjoy short nature walks, go birding or choose to join a longer hike into the rainforest in search of the elusive harpy eagle, which is one of the world’s most powerful eagles.

Approximately 200 islands make up the idyllic Pearl Islands. Explore several of the islands in the archipelago, including Isla del Rey and Isla Pacheca, as you learn about the history of the native populations and eventually the Spaniards and African slaves who arrived for the pearl trade. Deep rainforests, lush rivers, white sandy beaches and shallow reefs provide great opportunities for hiking, sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, Zodiac river cruises, beach activities and snorkeling. Later on, set sail for the Panama Canal. As cargo ships tend to pass through the canal during the day, you’ll most likely begin your crossing at night, when the canal is dramatically lit. By special arrangement, National Geographic Quest will anchor in Gatún Lake near Barro Colorado Nature Monument overnight.

Today, choose hikes and Zodiac cruises at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute facility on Barro Colorado Island or take a boat ride to Gamboa, where the Chagres River meets the Panama Canal, and hike on the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center trails. This evening, continue through the complex lock system of the Canal. 

This morning, explore the area on kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, Zodiac cruises upriver or go for a snorkel. In the early afternoon, you'll be greeted in town by Congo music and a traditional dance performance. Portobelo is known for its Spanish colonial military architecture, which collectively is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit several of the fortifications as well as the old Customs House and hear the tales of Portobelo’s rich pirate history. During your visit, enjoy a Congo dance presentation, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Afro-Panamanian community, holding great historical significance. The ship will remain anchored into the evening, allowing you to enjoy the sunset in the bay of Portobelo as you recap the highlights of your expedition.

After breakfast, disembark in Colón and transfer to the airport in Panama City for your flight home. Ask your expedition specialist about enjoying a culturally-immersive post-voyage extension in Panama City and San Lorenzo, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site.