Treasures of Costa Rica and Panama

Treasures of Costa Rica and Panama

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13 Days From

$3202

Treasures of Costa Rica and Panama

13 Days Starting in San Jose, Costa Rica and ending in Panama City, Panama

Visiting: San Jose, Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, Panama City, Soberania National Park

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 6

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

From: $3202

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Treasures of Costa Rica and Panama" tour, where you'll explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of two vibrant countries. Begin your adventure in Costa Rica with visits to the Arenal Volcano National Park and the breathtaking Cloud Forest in Monteverde. Relax on the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can snorkel or kayak in crystal-clear waters. Transition to Panama with a regional flight to Panama City, where you'll tour the iconic Panama Canal and the historic district of Casco Viejo. Discover the rich biodiversity of Soberania National Park and immerse yourself in the traditions of the Embera indigenous village. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, daily buffet breakfasts, and guided tours, all while traveling in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle. This tour promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Highlights

  • Visit Arenal Volcano National Park, home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world

  • Relax on the beach, go snorkeling or kayaking at Manuel Antonio National Park

  • Take a tour of the Panama Canal and explore the historic district of Casco Viejo

  • Discover the amazing Soberania National Park, where you can see a variety of wildlife

  • Explore the breathtaking Cloud Forest in Monteverde, home to an extraordinarily diverse ecosystem

  • Climb the cathedral tower in Old Panama and visit the Old Panama City Museum

  • Experience the Embera indigenous village and learn about their traditions and crafts

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: - San Jose (Arrival)

Location: San Jose

Accommodation Name: hotel

Make your own way to the International Airport to check in for your flight to San Jose. San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, is surrounded by evergreen mountains and valleys. After clearing customs, you will be picked up by our representative and transferred to your hotel.




Overnight in San Jose

Day 2: San Jose - Arenal (B/-/-)

Location: Arenal

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will depart San Jose and travel to the Arenal area, passing through the mountains of the Central Valley via the breathtaking landscape of agricultural plantations and cattle farms. Get ready to reach the town of La Fortuna around noon, home to the magical Arenal Volcano. Spend the rest of the day at leisure or book one of our optional tours* (time permitting).




Overnight in Arenal

Day 3: Arenal (B/-/-)

Location: Arenal

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend a full day at leisure in Arenal among a beautiful unspoiled setting.




Overnight in Arenal

Day 4: Arenal - Monteverde (B/-/-)

Location: Monteverde

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Continue your journey to Monteverde. The transfer will be first by bus and then by boat crossing Lake Arenal. Arrive in Monteverde around noon. In Monteverde, you will have free time to explore. We recommend you visit the breathtaking Cloud Forest which boasts an extraordinarily diverse ecosystem, home to 120 species of reptiles and amphibians, 130 species of mammals, and an astounding 500 species of birds — not to mention more than 3,000 species of plants. You may choose to book one of our optional tours* (time permitting).




Overnight in Monteverde

Day 5: Monteverde - Manuel Antonio (B/-/-)

Location: Manuel Antonio

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, you will drive to Manuel Antonio, one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica due to its beautiful beaches, rich wildlife, and an endless list of activities. You will reach Manuel Antonio around 1:30 PM. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring the National Park and exotic beaches. You may choose one of the optional tours* such as taking a boat through the complex and beautiful estuaries and mangroves surrounding Damas Island. For something different, perhaps visit the local sustainable organic Villa Vanilla Spice Plantation which grows a variety of spices and essential oil plants, including vanilla, cocoa, pepper, and cinnamon.




Overnight in Manuel Antonio

Day 6: Manuel Antonio (B/-/-)

Location: Manuel Antonio

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend a full day at leisure. You may choose one of the optional tours we are offering.




Overnight in Manuel Antonio

Day 7: Manuel Antonio - San Jose (B/-/-)

Location: San Jose

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred back to San Jose, where you will spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may book one of our optional tours.




Overnight in San Jose

Day 8: San Jose – Panama City (By Flight) (B/-/-)

Location: Panama City

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

At proper time, transfer to San Jose airport. Upon arrival in Panama City you will be met at the airport by your guide and transferred to your hotel.




Overnight in Panama City

Day 9: Panama City (B/-/-)

Location: Panama City

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, meet your guide in the morning and head to the ruins of Old Panama, and trace back the colonial roots of Panama City. We will climb the cathedral tower to take in the views of the city and visit the Old Panama City Museum to get a deeper understanding of this Central American nations history. Continue to the old city compound, the famous Casco Antiguo, and make your way down the picturesque narrow lanes. Visit landmarks such as the Flat Arch, The Cathedral, Las Bovedas and the French Plaza ,and learn about the ill-fated attempt of the French to construct a canal through the isthmus. All the while, listen to your guide describe the events that led to the establishment of the capital in its current location. Your tour concludes with a private transfer back to your accommodation



 
Overnight in Panama City

Day 10: Panama City (B/L/-)

Location: Panama City

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After that, head out to your tour which starts at Flamenco Marina. You will board the Pacific Queen and set sail towards the entrance of Panama Canal on the Pacific Ocean. Take a moment to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama Citys splendorous skyline before you pass under the Bridge of the Americas. The Panama Canal partial transit tour begins with the Pacific Queen entering the Miraflores Locks where the vessel is raised 18 meters above sea level in two distinct steps. You will then enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Miraflores from Pedro Miguel Locks. Next, the Pacific Queen will enter Pedro Miguel Locks, which is the second set of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is raised 9 meters in one step. After exiting the Pedro Miguel Locks, you will be able to view the new Centennial Bridge which crosses over the Canal. You will then enter the south end of the Gailard Cut where the Chagres River flows into the Canal. The Gailard Cut (also known as Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake) is one of the main points of interest for visitors because it was carved through the Continental Divide and this section of the Canal is full of history and geological value. The Pacific Queen will travel the Cut's 13.7 kilometers on the way to Gamboa Dredging Division. As you transit the Cut you will be able to appreciate the continuous maintenance that this area requires, because it is very susceptible to landslides. You will disembark at the Gamboa Dredging Division where you will board motor coaches for a 45- minute ride back to the Flamenco Marina.




Overnight in Panam City

Day 11: Panama City - Soberania National Park (B/-/-)

Location: Soberania National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Early in the morning, after breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby to begin your journey to the Soberania National Park. As you leave the Panama City limits, buildings will slowly be replaced by secondary and primary rainforest. You will pass the former Fort Clayton, Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks before entering the park. Here you will board a boat and head off on an adventure across Gatun Lake in the Panama Canal passing by monumental cargo ships transiting the waterway. Along the way, keep your eyes out for green iguanas, ospreys, snail kites, frigate birds, and other wildlife local to the area. The boat will circle rainforest covered islands, allowing us to observe and search for the mantled howler monkey, white-faced capuchin, and Geoffroys tamarin. After the tour, we will hike one of the trails of the lush forest.




Overnight at the Soberania National Park

Day 12: Soberania National Park (B/-/-)

Location: Soberania National Park

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After that, you will be picked up your hotel and transferred to El Corotu; on the shores of Madden Lake. Here we will board a motorized piragua (dugout canoe) and travel through dense jungle up the Chagres River to one of the Embera indigenous villages for the day experience. The boat journey takes you through the 320,000-acre Chagres National Park, which is the largest of the National Parks protecting the Panama Canal Watershed. Along the Chagres River, you may be able to spot the little blue and green heron, great egret, anhinga, neotropical cormorant and green kingfishers, and ospreys flying above. Upon our arrival at the Embera village, we will be welcomed with traditional dancing and music. You will learn about fascinating Embera traditions and their close relationship with nature. They are master artisans, famous for their woven baskets and masks, as well as their qualitative wooden carvings of cocobolo and intricate tagua. There will be handcrafts available for sale and you will have the chance to be painted with the traditional jagua, a natural dye the Embera use to adorn their bodies. After a traditional Embera lunch we will head back to your accommodation.




Overnight at the Soberania National Park

Day 13: Soberania National Park - Panama City - (B/-/-)

Location: Panama City

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, at the arranged time, your guide will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to Panama City airport for your flight home.

What's Included

  • 12 Nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at listed standard hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable stays at standard hotels or similar accommodations for 12 nights on a twin-sharing basis.

  • Daily buffet breakfast

    Start each day with a delicious buffet breakfast.

  • 01 Lunch during Panama Canal Tour

    Savor a lunch during the Panama Canal Tour.

  • Snacks during hike at the Soberania National Park

    Enjoy snacks while hiking at the Soberania National Park.

  • Arrival and departure airport transfers

    Convenient airport transfers upon arrival and departure.

  • All transportation in AC deluxe vehicle

    Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle.

  • All service of an English-Speaking guides

    Benefit from the services of knowledgeable English-speaking guides.

  • All sightseeing as per the itinerary

    Experience all the sightseeing activities as outlined in the itinerary.

  • All entrance fees as per the itinerary

    All entrance fees for attractions mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Partial Canal Transit Tour

    Take part in a partial transit tour of the Panama Canal.

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What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities

    Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Visa fees if applicable

    Visa fees, if required, are not included.

  • Departure taxes (USD 29 per person for Costa Rica)

    Departure taxes of USD 29 per person for Costa Rica are not included.

  • Departure airport taxes (40 USD per person for Panama)

    Departure airport taxes of 40 USD per person for Panama are not included.

  • Entrance to the Rainforest Discover Center

    Entrance fees to the Rainforest Discover Center are not included.

  • All items not mentioned as included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle, including arrival and departure airport transfers, a regional flight from San Jose to Panama City, and a Lake Crossing boat ride.

Accommodation

Enjoy 12 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed standard hotels or similar, ensuring a pleasant stay throughout your journey.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    All transportation is provided in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle, including arrival and departure airport transfers, a regional flight from San Jose to Panama City, and a Lake Crossing boat ride.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 12 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed standard hotels or similar, ensuring a pleasant stay throughout your journey.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes daily buffet breakfast, one lunch during the Panama Canal Tour, and snacks during the hike at the Soberania National Park.

  • What activities are included in the tour of the Panama Canal?

    The tour includes a partial transit tour of the Panama Canal, where you will board the Pacific Queen and pass through the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks, and travel through the Gailard Cut.

  • What wildlife can I expect to see in Soberania National Park?

    In Soberania National Park, you may see green iguanas, ospreys, snail kites, frigate birds, mantled howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, and Geoffroy's tamarins.

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a visit to the Embera indigenous village where you will learn about their traditions and crafts, and experience traditional dancing and music.

  • What is the itinerary for the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica, where you will be picked up by a representative and transferred to your hotel.

  • What optional activities are available in Manuel Antonio?

    In Manuel Antonio, you can take a boat through the estuaries and mangroves surrounding Damas Island or visit the local sustainable organic Villa Vanilla Spice Plantation.

  • What historical sites will be visited in Panama City?

    In Panama City, you will visit the ruins of Old Panama, climb the cathedral tower, visit the Old Panama City Museum, and explore the historic district of Casco Viejo.

  • What is the process for the Lake Crossing boat ride?

    The Lake Crossing boat ride involves traveling by bus and then by boat across Lake Arenal to reach Monteverde.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.