Kensington
9 Day Canal to Coast: Panama & Colombia
9 Day Canal to Coast: Panama & Colombia
Cosmopolitan cities, glorious Caribbean beaches, lush natural spaces, and remarkably preserved colonial architecture await in Panama and Colombia, two of Central America’s best-kept secrets. Designed for travelers eager to experience the next big thing before word gets around, this stylish itinerary combines the very best of these under-the-radar destinations into an experience that will stay with you for years to come.
It all starts in Panama City, one of Central America’s most sophisticated capitals. Once you’re settled, join your private guide for an exploration of Biomuseo, the fascinating Frank Gehry-designed natural history museum, before exploring the historic Casco Viejo (also known as Casco Antiguo) district, home to cobblestone streets, stately colonial homes, and grand churches.
Experience the Panama Canal and its lush surroundings from a unique perspective on a privately guided boat tour introducing you to the biodiverse ecosystem. After an early morning pick-up from your hotel lobby, along with your naturalist guide you will transfer to the town of Gamboa, where the Chagres River meets the Panama Canal. Here you will board a boat starting a jungle-adventure expedition across the Gatun Lake in the Panama Canal.
Bidding a fond adiós to Panama City, the journey moves north to the edge of the Caribbean Sea and the beautiful Rosario Islands.At the Rosario Islands, stay at Punta Faro, a haven of tranquility. Feel the warmth of white-sand beaches under your feet, allow the calm blue waters wash your stress away, stay active with a game of beach volleyball or discover the hidden gems of the island by bicycle.
Snorkel and relax on the grounds of a secluded island resort before visiting romantic Cartagena, the “Venice of Colombia.” Document your adventures in the beautiful UNESCO-protected city of Cartagena with the help of a professional photographer on a private tour of Cartagena’s colonial architecture before strolling its stylish bars, exquisite restaurants, and gorgeous plazas on your own.
Kensington Tours creates private trips from the world’s finest ingredients. Tailor-made with care by your personal Destination Expert, your personalized trip is always a one-of-a-kind experience made just for you. Expert local guidance and 24/7 service come standard.
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Day 2 |
It is at the very heart of the Americas that we find the Isthmus of Panama, the narrowest isthmus in Central America, and the Caribbean countries to carry out an exchange of their cultural and commercial activities. It was in 1914, when the 20th Century was beginning, that US citizens finally built a transoceanic Canal through the Isthmus of Panama, adding two terminal ports, Balboa and Cristobal, located in the Pacific and Atlantic coasts respectively, to its route. Then, with the scientific advances of the 20th Century and the start of international flights, airport services were improved throughout the country with the building of a totally new international air terminal with all the comforts and up-to-date improvements in passengers service and cargo handling. There are eight kilometers of land that separate the deep waters of the Caribbean Sea to the North of the Pacific Ocean to the South. This condition was more than enough for the 16th Century Spaniards to declare that the Istmus was "the key to the Americas." Panama is much more than just a canal. You find, whatever you desire, for it is a cosmopolitan, country, full of pleasant surprises. Visitors to Panama have been able to discover things that defy the most outlandish imagination.
Today, Panama finds itself at the threshold of a new era, with its citizens eager to work for and invest in their country. Panama is moving to the forefront, which is evidenced by the opening of new businesses every day that work in time with truly progressive economy. |
Day 3 |
It is at the very heart of the Americas that we find the Isthmus of Panama, the narrowest isthmus in Central America, and the Caribbean countries to carry out an exchange of their cultural and commercial activities. It was in 1914, when the 20th Century was beginning, that US citizens finally built a transoceanic Canal through the Isthmus of Panama, adding two terminal ports, Balboa and Cristobal, located in the Pacific and Atlantic coasts respectively, to its route. Then, with the scientific advances of the 20th Century and the start of international flights, airport services were improved throughout the country with the building of a totally new international air terminal with all the comforts and up-to-date improvements in passengers service and cargo handling. There are eight kilometers of land that separate the deep waters of the Caribbean Sea to the North of the Pacific Ocean to the South. This condition was more than enough for the 16th Century Spaniards to declare that the Istmus was "the key to the Americas." Panama is much more than just a canal. You find, whatever you desire, for it is a cosmopolitan, country, full of pleasant surprises. Visitors to Panama have been able to discover things that defy the most outlandish imagination.
Today, Panama finds itself at the threshold of a new era, with its citizens eager to work for and invest in their country. Panama is moving to the forefront, which is evidenced by the opening of new businesses every day that work in time with truly progressive economy. |
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A true gem on the Caribbean coast, the port city of Cartagena (Cartagena de Indias) welcomes visitors with its charming old town, colonial buildings, and exceptional beaches. A popular cruise ship stop, many seafarers find themselves honorary Cartagenans, as they stroll shady, cobblestone lanes and gaze upon impressive churches. Must-see attractions here include the dramatic fortress Castillo de San Felipe Barajas, Las Bóvedas Market (once a dungeon, now hosting souvenir stores), and the striking, 19th century Clock Tower Monument. |
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Southeast Spain's seaport of Cartagena is a large naval base on the Mediterranean coast. The city was founded in 220 B.C. and boasts Roman ruins, mosaics and murals. |
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Southeast Spain's seaport of Cartagena is a large naval base on the Mediterranean coast. The city was founded in 220 B.C. and boasts Roman ruins, mosaics and murals. |
Travel Dates | Price | ||
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08/01/20 - 12/31/26 |
Starting At $5,697 |
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Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Offer is subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.