Weekend Escape to Panama 3 day Stop Over

Panama City is the perfect Getaway for a short stopover and a weekend Escape. Pack light and escape to a 3-day Stop Over in Panama full of activities. Within 30 minutes from the international airport, you could be relaxing in a boutique hotel in the center of the colonial Casco Antiguo or a top-notch luxurious hotel in the Banking District, close to internationally known restaurants and Jazz Bars. Visit museums, parks, and historical areas all within the Panama City limits, and just slightly beyond these limits, adventure options are endless. Access national parks are known for hiking, birding, biking, kayaking, and cultural encounters or have a day relaxing on the Pacific Coastline or a surfing adventure. Take a train to an area once owned by pirates or transit the engineering masterpiece, the Panama Canal!

Pacific or Atlantic or maybe both?

There are different options if you love the ocean and water sports. You can go surfing in a close beach at the Pacific such as El Palmar and Rio Mar, learn Kite Surfing or go snorkeling in the Atlantic side close to Portobello. Another option is escaping to one of the beautiful islands on the Pearl Archipelago. If on season, the best spots for whale watching.

Panamanian Gastronomy

Panama’s local cuisine infused with fresh local produce, seafood, and other unique ingredients are competing against other great well known culinary destinations in Latin America.  Panama offers a wide choice of restaurants to suit everyone’s taste and budget. From great cuisine and international chefs to real Panamanian food experience.  You need to come and explore the flavors of this unique Central America destination.

International Film Festival (March 26 – April 11, 2020)

If you love cinema and Latin America this is the event for you. Come and experience the International Film Festival of Panama next year.   IFF Panama’s industry program links the experiences of members of the local film industry and that of representatives of the international industry who come to the event, in spaces that feed new possibilities for film production, marketing and distribution. IFF Panama provides tools to strengthen a sector of recognized impact.    Take advantage of the COPA Stopover and discover Panama and amazing Latin American films during the 9th International Film Festival of Panama.

Close National Park and unique biodiversity

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  Soberania National Park

Explore a tropical forest in the heart of Panama City on a tour through the Parque Natural Metropolitano and Ancon Hill. Watch for sloths, birds, monkeys, insects and tree frogs as you hike through the tropical rainforest, and learn the names for Panama’s native plants and animals. Take in sweeping views of the City from the lookout mirador, see flocks of birds erupt from the foliage and experience the tranquility of Panama City’s only wildlife refuge. You can join one of our rainforest adventures and discover why Panama is the Isthmus that changed the world.

Go as a local in Panama

If you want to experience the way of the locals, head to El Mercado del Marisco or stroll in Casco Viejo old colonial town where you will find beautiful shops, , and good restaurants. Our cuisine has received international recognition due to the new generation of young chefs that have raised the quality of our gastronomy by mixing hundreds of years of diversity. Book our gastronomy tour as we are the first tour operator offering this unique experience.

Diving Responsible & Protecting the Corals

From STI

Corals are actually animals! In fact, a single coral formation can be made up of THOUSANDS of tiny little animals called polyps, which are related to jellyfish. Together, polyps create beautiful corals of all shapes and sizes. Some build stony coral reefs, while others form soft corals that resemble bushes, feathers, and trees.

But corals are also extremely sensitive creatures. Something as simple as a change in water temperature or poor water quality can lead to their demise. The rise in climate change and other human impacts is putting coral reefs around the world in jeopardy. Scientists predict that up to 90% of all reefs could be gone by 2050 unless we reduce these impacts.

Coral reefs are the most biodiverse marine ecosystem. Though they cover less than 1% of the ocean floor, they are home to more than a quarter of all marine life. 

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  Picture by Annie Young J.

If this disease continues to wreak havoc across the Mesoamerican Reef, there will be a ripple effect of consequences for marine life and communities. When coral health declines it can throw off the delicate balance of the entire ecosystem and cause fish populations to dwindle. As the reef becomes barren, local people that rely on the reef will need to find other sources of food and income. On top of this, coastal communities will be left exposed to the damaging impacts of waves and storms. And without calcium rich corals you can also bid farewell to white sandy beaches! 

Picture by Sustainable Travel International

Needless to say, the loss of a reef system as expansive as the Mesoamerican Reef would be devastating at a time when coral reefs across the globe are struggling to survive. 

Ways you can Help

• Use reef-safe sunscreens that don’t contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate that are toxic the reef. More information on how sunscreen affects coral reefs and which chemicals to avoid is available here. 
• Don’t touch corals or other marine life. Maintaining proper buoyancy is an important skill to keep your fins or equipment from hitting the reef or seafloor.
• Disinfect your dive and snorkel gear between excursions by removing debris and sanitizing it with a 5-10% bleach solution. For sensitive equipment, use fresh water with antibacterial dish soap instead. Detailed instructions on how to safely decontaminate different types of gear are outlined here. 
• Don’t litter and reduce plastic use to reduce the amount of debris that is contaminating the reef.
• Choose responsible dive operators, hotels, and other businesses that practice proper wastewater treatment and use environmentally friendly cleaning products and fertilizers.  

From Sustainable Travel International

Panamanians: Truly happy people

In a recent survey done by Gallup, Panama ranked number 1 as the happiest country in the world. “Global happiness studies often involve two measures — how people see their lives and how they live their lives. Both concepts are rooted in behavioral economics.  How people reflect on their life is very different from how people live their life.

Panama leads not only the region, but the world in four of the five well-being elements — purpose, social, community, and physical well-being.

Four reasons why Panama is a happy destination and you should include it to your bucket list for 2020.

1 – Panama is a destination of traditional family values. Bonds are paramount, and family and friends play a very important role in society.

2 – Panama is naturally beautiful and biodiverse – a small country with two oceans and a productive environment. Panama offers close natural attractions for day trips and weekend escapes. Easy access to beaches, mountains, islands, rainforests, and more.

3 – Cultural diverse – a genuinely melting pot where the local folklore can be experienced through a multitude of festivals, dances, and traditions that have been handed down from generation to generation. The different festivals reflect the influence of the various ethnic groups that make up the country. To the north, in Colon Province, one can observe traditions of African influence, such as Congo drums dating back to the era of slavery and the Black Christ feast. In contrast, the Pollera Festival in the town of Las Tablas honors the Spanish colonial traditions.

4 – Stable government and safe destination, Panama is considered to be the safest country of Latin America.

Happiness can’t be measured by how much money you make, but in Panama is influenced by the bonds of your family, friends, and environment.

Adventure in Bocas del Toro – Tranquilo Bay Reserve

PANAMA RAINFOREST HIKING

Tranquilo Bay’s grounds include over 200 acres with several kilometers of forested trails. Many of Isla Bastimentos favorite birds, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, lizards, insects and frogs live here.

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Possible bird sightings may include: multiple raptors, Montezuma Oropendolas, Red-lored Parrots, hummingbirds, five species of kingfishers, Green Ibis, woodpeckers, honeycreepers, tanagers, pigeons, antbirds, manakins, seedeaters, herons, and in-season, Three-wattled Bellbirds. 

Wildlife sightings may include: White-faced Capuchins, three and two-toed sloths, green iguanas, basilisk lizards, butterflies and poison dart frogs

CLIMB UP – LOOK AROUND

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The wildlife and views from the tower are incredible, but the natural history lesson alone is worth the climb. All life zones known to the tropics, from the mountains to the coral reefs below the ocean’s surface are visible from the Canopy Tower. This vantage point above the forest’s canopy gives you a bird’s-eye view of the entire archipelago.

KAYAKING THE CARIBBEAN

The kayaking part of the tour departs from Tranquilo Bay’s comfortable facility. Our our staff will handle the preparation, maintenance and portage of the equipment. We provide snorkel gear for the tour so you may explore the underwater garden that includes tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs. All you have to do is paddle and absorb the breath-taking scenery.

For those new to kayaking, we will give you a lesson to familiarize you with the equipment and techniques to prepare you for your adventure.

SNORKELING THE CARIBBEAN BLUE

Your snorkeling adventure covers several ecosystems. Kayak snorkeling from Tranquilo Bay places you within the marine park. You explore different types of coral formations and marine habitat during your time underwater.

This unique adventure is for families, couples and small groups of 8 people maximum. The tour leaves only on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The program includes boat transfer from Bocas del Toro Island, bilingual guide, lunch at the reserve and activities. For reservations: click here

5 Ways to Experience an Authentic Panama Getaway

There are many reasons why Panama should be your next getaway destination this year. Beyond the amazing biodiversity, our unique and fascinating history, amazing gastronomy and superb weather. Panama is a small country that offers a lot. This year Panama is celebrating 500th anniversary since its foundation and the diversity of its people is what makes this country unique.

Private Islands and Unique Lodges

There are still undiscovered lands. Pristine corners of the world unspoiled by man and unchanged by time. Tropical islands where true wilderness awakens your senses and rouses your inner explorer. Isla Palenque Island Resort is an exclusive private island resort set amidst 400-acres of an enchanting jungle in the Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama. A luxury beachfront haven for those seeking the tranquillity of nature in the raw. A 5-day adventure in Panama includes: a night in Casco Viejo hotel (American Trade Hotel or Central Hotel), Transfer to the Gulf of Chiriqui, Kayaking the Gulf of Chiriqui, Snorkeling the Amazing Gulf of Chiriqui and a 4 day stay at the exclusive private island resort. The resort is equipped to have you scaling gargantuan strangler fig and Panama trees, spying on falcons and howler monkeys and zipping through the sea for as many days as you can handle. Those guests determined to get some time on the mainland can also opt for the Ngöbe-Buglé tour and waterfall hike, a remarkable excursion that includes horseback riding to a waterfall along with a deep exploration of the tribe’s culture. There are also countless trails to hike and beaches to walk, and the resort provides binoculars, maps and everything else you’ll need to set out like a modern-day Robinson Crusoe. For reservations and more details please contact info@ecocircuitos.com

The Panama Exploration Cruise

Explore Panama’s natural beauty with this 7-day Adventure Cruise Tour. You will be learning about the geology, animals, birds and ocean life of the Isthmus that changes the world. Including the Darien Jungle and the Canal Transit. The Discovery is a 33 meter, purpose built catamaran providing 8 queen and 4 twin cabins. All cabins have individual climate control, bathrooms and huge windows which extend along the length of the cabin allowing you to enjoy the scenery in complete privacy. Book for May 28th, 2019 and get a special discount.

Drive through the Countryside and meet the locals

Go on scenic roads exploring volcanos, waterfalls, highlands and the beaches of Panama. This adventurous road trip features extensive panoramic views and leaves a lot of flexibility for you to explore and meet new friends!

Top tree: Panama Road trip – Waves of Panama – Highlands Extension

Go birding in one of the best spots in the world

For birdwatchers, Panama is considered one of the top spots in the world, hosting more than 1000 bird species. Our classic birding program is for the true birder who wants to discover the unique birds diversity of Panama. click here

Enjoy one of the many and unique festivals

Although some Panamanian events are becoming more international events such as the Jazz Festival every January and the International Film Festival in April. There are many other unique festivals such as the Micro Brew Fest in February to boost the craft beer industry in Panama and the region; The Pollera (National Dress) Festival, where hundreds of participants in their beautiful customer and hairdos compete in different categories; The Congo Festival where the AfroPanamanian folklore is represented with music, customers and food and many more.

Panama is a destination full of contrast and is waiting to be discovered. Contact us or your special travel partner to curate your next vacation in the best-kept secret of Central America. http://www.ecocircuitos.com

Adventure week Panama 2018

During the Adventure Week Panama this past May, the participants from different Continents discover why Panama became the Isthmus that changed the world and a paradise for the outdoor travelers.

The explorers discover a diverse destination filled with natural and cultural beauty and with an incredible history to share with the rest of the world.  Panama surprises the adventure travelers for the cosmopolitan capital,  the legends of Pirates and Conquistadores that fought for the treasures of the Americas, amazing close national parks and trails, good adventures, unique wildlife and a superb gastronomy.

Through kayak, trekking, amazing gastronomic fests, hikes with naturalist guides, snorkeling, boutique hotels and wildlife observation, Panama became the place where friends from around the world united for one week.  We all enjoyed this adventure and we hope to continue receiving new friends from the Adventure Travel Association.

Keep Exploring!!!!

Special Rate The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort Panama, Autograph Collection Special Rate! $138.00

Booking Window:  Until Abril 30, 2018

Rates are valid from Sunday to Thursday.  Rates are not combinable with other promotions or discounts.

Minimum stay:  1 night

Cancellation policy to avoid Penalty 14 days before arrival

A credit card is requested to guarantee the reservation on the next 72hours after the reservation is confirmed.  Reservations without a guarantee;  will be canceled without notification.

Rates above not included the 10% government tax

Rates are NET, non-commissionable

Includes buffet breakfast up to 2 adults

Not valid for groups of 10 rooms or more.

Welcome to Buenaventura Beach Resort part of Autograph Collection hotel has everything to make your stay on this beautiful beach a great one!

The Corotú spa located in the resort is the perfect spot to get pampered from head to toe, while the variety of restaurants, ranging from Tamarindo with its locally sourced ingredients to Tai Kai’s Japanese menu take care of all your culinary wishes.

The generously designed pool and beach area is perfect for swimming or relaxing in the sun and the staff at the poolside restaurants and the swim-up bar make sure you are well provided with food and drinks at all time. The area is perfect for water sports, including snorkeling, surfing, and fishing.

A special feature of this resort is the 18-hole par-72 Nicklaus-designed golf course, which is sculpted into the natural landscape of the Pacific coastline with views of the beach. Other activities include Tennis, the well-equipped gym and horse riding.

The newest features of the resort are the four residence style villas located on the property, which will soon be available to add that extra touch of luxury to your honeymoon or family vacation.

Isla Palenque Island Resort

Located in the Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama, Isla Palenque Island Resort is an undiscovered private island sanctuary. The island’s 160 hectares of lush jungle, framed by 7 untouched beaches, house a number of wilderness trails and hidden spaces to be explored by guests of the barefoot-luxury Beach Suites (mid-2018) and Villa Estate.

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Who should visit Isla Palenque Island Resort?

Wildlife and nature lovers, guests looking for an active beach vacation, soft adventure, relaxation and a unique rainforest and private island experience.

Unique hotel features

A private island where luxury and sustainability intertwine, 8 Beach Suites (mid-2018), 6-room Villa Estate vacation rental house, on-site tours, an abundance of wildlife including monkeys and anteaters, locally-sourced food.

The Experience

As guests check in to Isla Palenque, they open a door to a world of new experiences and undisturbed nature, enhanced by architecture and interior design that effortlessly blend into the tropical surroundings. The atmosphere of the hotel is a balance of sophisticated and private comfort, combined with peacefulness, relaxation, and playfulness. The service provided by the staff is so personalized, professional and detail-oriented that the Resort feels exclusive and at the same time familiar; guests feel free to explore and at the same time feel taken care of. With a whole pristine island to discover through a number of included on-site tours, curious guests truly live an authentic, meaningful experience that goes far beyond a typical beach vacation.

Island Amenities

 Hiking trails and on-site tours

 Complimentary Wi-Fi

 7 private beaches with direct access

 Kayas & paddleboards

 Off-property tours including snorkeling and fishing

Rooms: Villa Estate vacation rental house: 6 rooms total – Garden, Jungle and Ocean Suites.

On-site activities

Secrets of the Island Hike, Hike to Punta Ballena, Kayak Tours, Tree Climbing Canopy Tour, Island Treks, Coastal Rock Hike, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Rock Fishing, Birdwatching and more. *Ocean-based activities are tide-dependent.

For more information, reservations and rates please contact us at info@ecocircuitos.com

 

Educational and Academic trips in Panama.

EcoCircuitos is specialized in educational travel experiences. Our guides are experts in their field and provide in-depth insights and understandings from culture and history to biodiversity. These understandings foster authentic travel experiences as well as responsible encounters between travelers and nature, biodiversity and local people.

Students working at the community

hidden waterfall

hiking the Mamony reserve

Visiting Darien Embera community

horseback riding in the highlands

With being one of the most biodiverse places on earth, Panama hosts world-class biological and geological experiences. With its numerous indigenous communities, colonial towns, ancient ruins and the Panama Canal, the Isthmus it is also a top-spot for historians, anthropologists and architecture lovers. What is less known, is Panama’s extensive art scene; from numerous galleries in the capital, Afro-Caribbean remains and indigenous handicrafts to artisans dating back to colonial times.

Private Reserves:  Mamoní Valley and ideal spot for neotropical studies

Located at 2.5 hours east of Panama’s international airport, and in the heart of the Mamoní Valley, lies an amazing rainforest campus amidst land manage by a non-profit organization that support Tourism and Conservation.    Their efforts supports its large-scale land conservation and habitat restoration within 28,000-acre Upper Mamoní Valley Watershed and beyond.  They offer a natural campus within a critical biological corridor that is the bridge for culture and wildlife throughout the Americas and home to many endemic and endangered species.

They have count to date 332 birds, 51 amphibians, 63 mammals, 62 reptiles and a incredible diversity of plants and trees.

We partner with this organization to offer Educational Trips for universities and high schools students interested in hands-on learning, while making a positive impact on the flora, fauna and communities in an ecological hotspot.  Some of the projects involves permaculture, wildlife observation, rainforest treks, adventures and exchange with local communities.

A fun and engaging environment for my students to learn through hands-on learning and solving real world problems.  – Nader Afzalan. Teacher at Redlands university.

EcoCircuitos has experience with programs that have been tailored to middle and high school level students and with undergraduate and graduate students. For more information contact us at: info@ecocircuitos.com.

 

Top 6 Reasons to travel to Panama during Green Season

Panama is worth seeing throughout the year! Not only the dry season is a good time to travel to the Isthmus, the wet and green season could be the best time to explore and enjoy different outdoor activities with less people and better prices.

Panama Bay

View from the air

Surfcamp in Playa Venao resort hotel

Some of the reasons to visit Panama during the green season:

1. Fewer Tourist walking the streets of Casco Viejo.  You can enjoy more time on the attractions without the crowds, have a reservation at one of the best rooftops restaurants and enjoy the beauty of this UNESCO site just for you.
2. Lush nature in national parks and tropical fruits.  The green season is the best time to go hiking, wildlife observation or just trekking  in our national parks.  It is the time for the flowers, the birds and beautiful plants.   It is also the time for many of our tropical fruits, so get ready to taste new flavors!
3. More water for paddling in river, kayaking and water sports.  If you are like me and enjoy paddling,  the green season is the best time for learning SUP or going kayaking in many places around Panama.
4. Surf and Whale watching season.  The season for the humpback whale watching is starting in April and is the best time of the year to go and experience this amazing mammals.  Also good waves in both Caribbean and Pacific with less surfers.  You will have the waves just for you!
5. Special Discounts in tours and hotels.  This is the best time to travel and get special rates.  The industry lower the rates during the green season and you will get the best deals from us.
6. Discover the local culture.  Many national festivals and activities are held during the low season.  The national day of La Pollera on July 22 is one good opportunity to admire the national dress and hundrends of women wearing it on one day parade.  This is just one of many.