Kayak & Snorkel with the indigenous Kuna of Panama

Discover why this adventure to Panama's San Blas Islands was chosen in the past by National Geographic Adventure and Outside magazines as one of the best trips in the world! We pioneered this trip in 1997, and we remain ardent fans, not only because we love sea kayaking, but also because of the islands' extraordinarily rich marine ecosystems and the indigenous Kuna who call this place home.

Here in their sovereign nation, Kuna Yala, they still spend their days fishing, gathering coconuts, and making molas (the famous reverse appliqué cloth art). Rewards abound as you paddle and snorkel among rich coral reefs, glide through pristine mangroves, and camp on uninhabited tropical beaches or near rarely visited villages where the Kuna welcome our group as honored guests. It's an experience like no other in the world-and we're the only company permitted by the Kuna to offer such an intimate trip in their homeland.

Activities

5 days easy to moderate sea kayaking (previous experience recommended but not required), snorkeling, easy rainforest day hikes

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Sea kayak in the protected waters of the San Blas Islands, the land of the Kuna-a trip we pioneered!
• Meet the indigenous Kuna in remote island villages unvisited by any other tour company-an MTS exclusive!
• Enjoy wonderful snorkeling among amazing coral reefs

2010 PRICES
$2,495 (4-12 members)
$2,595 (2-3 members)
$150 single supplement
$150 internal airfare

Minimum age is 12

Duration: 8 days Start Location: Panama City End Location: Panama City Best time to go: January - March, December

Itinerary

• Day 1 : Panama City

  Arrive in Panama City, Panama.

• Day 2 : Fly to Digir

  Fly to the traditional island community of Digir in the San Blas Islands and meet the island Sahila (chief or community leader). Explore the village and meet new friends, experience some incredible bird watching, have a kayak lesson, and watch traditional dancing in the evening.

• Day 3 : Diadup

  By motorboat to a remote outer archipelago, where you'll board sea kayaks and begin paddling in the protected waters and exploring various reefs. This area has been identified as one of the "hot spot" areas of marine diversity among the coral reefs of Kuna Yala and is also a great place for spectacular snorkeling.

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  Days 4 - 5 : Island of Sichirtupo / Island of Sichirtupo

  Kayak (or travel by motorized dugout canoe) to the magical white sand island of Sichirtupo, whose surrounding reef and deep channel are breathtaking. You may see a variety of rays, moray eels, parrot fish, and many other vividly colored fish that live among the coral, as well as nurse sharks, the occasional porpoise, and perhaps even manatee.

• Day 6 : Bidirdup

  Paddle about three hours and explore mangrove habitats, ending up at the island of Bidirup. This is a great place for snorkeling among the spectacular coral reefs.

• Day 7 : Panama City

  Return to Panama City, where you can relax on the banks of the Panama Canal before venturing out for a sunset paddle in the mouth of the Canal, a spectacular way to bid farewell to the Isthmus as we paddle alongside enormous ships from all over the world. Later, stroll through Cascoe Viejo, the old walled city and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Day 8 : Departure

  Depart Panama City.

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  Country Inn & Suites Panama Canal Hotel

  With its charming décor and comfortable amenities, the Country Inn & Suites Panama Canal Hotel is located in Panama City at the entrance of the Panama Canal and is close to numerous business and leisure attractions. The Country Inn Panama Canal hotel's location is a short drive from Tocumen International Airport and is only a few minutes from the Marcos A. Gelabert Domestic Airport. This hotel in Panama City, Panama provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere sure to please travelers of all types.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

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