Panama & Nicaragua: Adventure, Nature and Culture |
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Experience some of the highlights of two unique nations, as you travel through Panama and Nicaragua on this 2-week adventure. Beginning in the surroundings of Panama City, you'll visit lush national parks filled with wildlife, as well as the mountainous coffee region of Boquete, before flying north to Nicaragua. Starting in colonial León, you'll head out volcano boarding and trek into the remote Somoto Canyon, before visiting Ometepe Island and finishing your journey with a relaxing stay on the beautiful Emerald Coast. |
Day | Destination | Hotel |
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1 | Soberania National Park | Summit Rainforest & Golf Resort |
2 | Soberania National Park | Summit Rainforest & Golf Resort |
3 | Santa Fe | Coffee Mountain Inn |
4 | Santa Fe | Coffee Mountain Inn |
5 | Boquete | The Riverside Inn |
6 | Boquete | The Riverside Inn |
7 | Leon | Hotel El Convento |
8 | Leon | Hotel El Convento |
Day | Destination | Hotel |
---|---|---|
9 | Esteli | Hotel Los Arcos |
10 | Esteli | Hotel Los Arcos |
11 | Altagracia | Finca San Juan de la Isla |
12 | Altagracia | Finca San Juan de la Isla |
13 | Tola & the Emerald Coast | Hotel Punta Teonoste |
14 | Tola & the Emerald Coast | Hotel Punta Teonoste |
15 | Tola & the Emerald Coast | Hotel Punta Teonoste |
Pickup point: Panamá Tocumen International Airport
Welcome to Panama! Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport (PTY) you need to go through the immigration procedures and pick up your luggage to clear customs. All Copa Airlines flights should arrive to Terminal 2. Other airlines should arrive to Terminal 1. We are monitoring your flight and our guide and/or driver will be waiting for you with a sign with your name on it, to assist and transfer you to your accommodation. If you have trouble finding our representative, please send a WhatsApp message or call us at: +507 6648 5346. Enjoy your vacations in Panama!
Quotation
Day 1 Welcome to Central America: Panama and Nicaragua.|-LD
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime trip across Panama and Nicaragua! You'll be welcomed at the International Airport in Panama by our representative, ready to be transferred to your hotel in the Soberania National Park area.
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Transfer :
Panama airport (PTY) - Soberania national park
- Distance: 43 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 1:00h
Destination Info: Soberania National Park
A place that will seem like paradise to bird-watchers and hikers alike, the Soberanía National Park stretches along the shores of the Panama Canal, stretching from Limón all the way to Lake Gatun. One of the most accessible tropical rainforests in the country, and you'll find a great variety of walking trails to explore, all within 30km of Panama City. Although you'll find plenty of wingless wildlife too, the park is most famous for its incredible birds - toucans, trogons, motmots, flycatchers, hawks, tanagers and the elusive red-bellied woodpecker all call this place home.
Summit Rainforest & Golf Resort
Combining comfort, elegant design and modern facilities, the Summit Rainforest & Golf Resort provides a perfect starting point for your Panama adventure. Just 20 minutes from downtown Panama City and within easy reach of the Pipeline Trail, this 103 room resort offers something for culture and nature seekers alike. The area is rich in animal and bird life, with plenty of trails and tours available, as well as a stunning 18-hole golf course on-site.
Rooms: Double Room - Deluxe
Day 2 Soberania & Panama City|BLD
In the morning, your local guide takes you to Panama City to see the highlights. In the afternoon, you will be able to explore the natural surroundings of your accommodation.
Included Experiences
08:00 Panamá City - Miraflores Locks & Casco Viejo
This morning's tour will show you the sights, history and culture of Panama City, as well as paying a visit to the famous Panama Canal. You'll be picked up from your hotel and taken to Miraflores Locks, where you'll see giant ships transiting the canal and learn the about the incredible story its construction. The tour continues to the old city compound - Casco Antiguo - taking in the impressive Biodiversity Museum, San José Church and the bustling folk market along the way. You'll finish at the French Plaza, from where you'll have a panoramic view of the modern city center and the ships waiting their turn to transit the canal. A return transfer to your hotel is included.
Summit Rainforest & Golf Resort
Day 3 Santa Fe National Park|B-D
This morning you'll head towards the pristine Santa Fe National Park, where you'll be surrounded by mountains. The drive is around 4 hours, crossing Los Santos and Herrera provinces, until you arrive in the famous Veraguas province. This evening, you'll enjoy a special dinner and settle into your new surroundings.
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Transfer :
08:30 -
Soberania National Park - Panama City
- Distance: 25 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 30 minutes -
Transfer :
09:00 -
Panama City - Santa Fe
- Distance: 306 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 4:30h
Destination Info: Santa Fe
This morning you'll head towards the pristine Santa Fe National Park, where you'll be surrounded by mountains. The drive is around 4 hours, crossing Los Santos and Herrera provinces, until you arrive in the famous Veraguas province. This evening, you'll enjoy a special dinner and settle into your new surroundings.
Included Experiences
18:00 Santa Fe National Park - Coffee Plantation Dinner (--D)
This lovely experience takes place on the outskirts of Santa Fe town, in a coffee plantation with breathtaking views of the National Park. You'll take a short walk through the farm to see the coffee, plants and fruits grown here, before enjoying an authentic family-style dinner at the rancho, made with locally grown and fresh ingredients from the farm.
Coffee Mountain Inn
This friendly, family-run inn is on the outskirts of Santa Fe town, surrounded by tropical gardens and with amazing views towards the National Park. Located in an historical coffee farming area, this award-winning property grows their own crop, which you may be lucky enough to try along with your delicious breakfast. Rooms are comfortable and tastefully decorated, providing a homely base from which to explore the region.
Rooms: Double Room - Mountain View Queen
Day 4 Discover the park! |B--
In the morning your local guide takes you on an outdoors adventure, delight with a hiking tour across the river and forests.
Included Experiences
09:00 Santa Fe National Park - Jungle River Trek
This guided jungle trek takes you deeper into the rainforest, where you can get in touch with nature and visit some of the park's beautiful waterfalls. Along with your local guide, you'll hike through water, climb rocks and follow different paths through the forest on a 3km circuit, before returning to the comfort of your hotel.
Coffee Mountain Inn
Day 5 Boquete: Mountains and coffee|B--
Transfer from Santa Catalina to Boquete for a taste of the mountainous area of Panama, surrounded by cloud forests and with many coffee plantations, one of which you will visit this afternoon.
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Transfer :
08:00 -
Santa Fe - Boquete
- Distance: 285 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 4:15h
Destination Info: Boquete
Boquete is a picturesque mountain town on the edge of the beautiful Barú Volcano National Park. With a cool climate and a welcoming small-town atmosphere, it makes a lovely break from the busy cities and the heat of the coast. The area is an outdoor-lover's dream, with a variety of nature trails to explore, as well as opportunities for climbing, rafting and canopy tours. The rich, volcanic soil around the town results in some wonderful local produce to enjoy, including one of the world's most sought-after coffees - Geisha.
Included Experiences
14:00 Boquete - Boquete Coffee Experience
The Jaramillo region is home to some of the best-known organic coffee producers in Panama, exporting their products worldwide. During this tour you'll visit one of these farms (or 'fincas') learn about the whole process behind organic coffee production, including a little insight into the famous Geisha Coffee variety. Depending on the season you might be allowed to try your hand at roasting the beans, and of course you'll be able taste their delicious coffee straight from the source. You'll also learn how coffee production at the farm is helping the indigenous community, Ngobe Buglé, before being transferred back to your hotel.
The Riverside Inn
Set amongst unique landscaped gardens on the banks of Rio Pianista, The Riverside Inn provides a homely countryside retreat where you can settle into the peaceful surroundings of Boquete. With six beautifully furnished rooms and an excellent adjacent restaurant, this hotel makes a great base from which to explore the town and take in the highlights of this stunning region.
Rooms: Double Room - Loft Suite Maracuya
Day 6 La Amistad National Park|B--
Along with a local guide, you'll set off the explore one of the trails of La Amistad National Park.
Included Experiences
09:00 Boquete - Cloud Forest Hike: The Waterfalls Trail
Enjoy a half day hiking experience along the Lost Waterfalls Trail of La Amistad National Park. The trail runs parallel to Quebrada La Mina - a creek that crosses some of the ridges and valleys above Boquete, creating spectacular waterfalls that spill into Caldera River. The 4.5 km round trip trail requires a moderate fitness level as some sections are challenging.
The Riverside Inn
Day 7 Next destination: Nicaragua|B--
In the morning, transfer towards David Airport, from where you can take a connecting flight to Nicaragua, via Panama City (flight not included). At your arrival in Nicaragua, our representative will meet you at the airport to take you to your first destination, León, a colonial town with a rich history and lively culture.
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Transfer : Boquete - David Airport
- Distance: 50 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 1:00h -
Transfer :
Managua Airport - León
- Distance: 95 km.
- Road is in very good condition.
Average travel time: 1:30h
Destination Info: Leon
Seen by many as the intellectual center of Nicaragua, León offers energy and beauty in equal measure. A picturesque colonial town dating back to the 1600's, it has grown into a city full of political spirit, art, great food and buzzing nightlife.
The city has a fascinating history, having been relocated from its original location at Leon Viejo, which you can still visit today. The historic center of Leon is filled with stunning colonial architecture and museums, whilst nearby you'll find fantastic beaches and volcanic landscapes which are perfect for adventure seekers.
Hotel El Convento
Once home to the historic San Francisco Convent, this lovingly converted building could be one of Nicaragua's most beautiful hotels. There are 31 spacious rooms and suites featuring antique décor, set around a gorgeous traditional interior garden and swimming pool. There's also a fine restaurant with view of the garden and features homemade ice cream from Nicaragua's tropical fruits.
The hotel is located just two blocks from the cathedral and Leon's central park.
Rooms: Double Room - Double Room - Ejecutiva
Day 8 Adventure & History|B--
Start the day with an experience full of adrenaline, as you try your hand at volcano boarding. Once you return to León, and after some time to relax, you'll join a walking tour to see the city's highlights.
Included Experiences
08:00 Leon - Volcano Boarding at Cerro Negro
Take on one of Nicaragua's most iconic experiences as you go boarding down the side of an active volcano! The experience starts with an off-road transfer from Leon city, followed by a one-hour hike to the top of the Cerro Negro volcano, during which your guide will teach you some of the geology of the area. Once at the top, safety instructions and a short practical training are given before starting your thrilling descent.
No experience is necessary, and you can either sit down or stand up, depending on how brave you're feeling!
14:00 Leon - City Walking Tour
Explore the gorgeous historic centre of Leon along with a local guide, learning about the city's past and its stunning colonial architecture. You'll see a number of Leon's famous churches, as well the mighty Leon Cathedral - the largest in Central America. On route you'll also visit Ortiz Gurdian museum, which houses the works of renowned classic and contemporary artists, and see daily life unfold in the local fruit and vegetable market. The tour ends with remarkable views from the cathedral's picturesque rooftop.
Hotel El Convento
Day 9 Traveling to Esteli|B--
Transfer towards Esteli, one of the main towns in Northern Nicaragua, full of history and surrounded by many nature sites and tobacco plantations. Afternoon at leisure, to discover the city in your own.
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Transfer :
09:00 -
León - Estelí
- Distance: 110 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 2:30h
Destination Info: Esteli
Situated in the lesser-visited Northeastern part of Nicaragua, Estelí is a city rich in history and culture. The city has played an important role in wars and revolutions over the years, and echoes of these events can still be seen today.
Modern-day Estelí has a vibrant and active center, with many hotels and restaurants, as well as lively ranchero bars and nightclubs. The surroundings of Estelí offer great opportunities to go bird watching and discover orchids, or go for hikes and walks. The beautiful Miraflor nature reserve is also close by, and should not be missed.
Hotel Los Arcos
Located near to Estelí's central park, Hotel Los Arcos offers 32 rooms which are comfortably furnished and fully equipped with en-suite bathrooms. Guests can unwind in the attractive terrace area and enjoy the cafe-bar-restaurant, Vuela Vuela, which offers local and Spanish-style cuisine.
Hotel Los Arcos is founded and administrated by "Fundación Familias Unidas", a non-profit organization whose goal is to provide vocational training to young adults in order to help them find employment.
Rooms: Double Room - Twin (2 matrimonial)
Day 10 Somoto Canyon Adventure|BL-
Today your local guide takes you on a full day adventure to the remote Somoto Canyon, where you'll spend the day hiking and swimming in between imposing cliffs.
Included Experiences
08:00 Esteli - Somoto Canyon Adventure (-L-)
After a journey through the highlands and meeting your experienced local guide, the adventure begins at the entrance of the canyon, where the stunning Coco River rushes through the narrow gorge. You'll begin by rappelling down the sheer rock walls, before starting your hike along the river which leads into the rugged Somoto Canyon. In some sections you'll wade or swim through the water, admiring the impressive rock formations and caves dotted along the trail. It's a day of nature and adventure which will live long in the memory.
Waterproof bags will be provided for your valuables. Bring your swimsuit, water shoes or old trainers, sunscreen, and an extra set of clothes.
Minimum Age: 12 years
Hotel Los Arcos
Day 11 From north to south: Ometepe Island|B--
Transfer from Esteli to San Jorge port, boarding point for the ferry to the island. At your arrival, our local team will take you to your beachfront lodge, located on a working farm, with marvelous views of the volcanoes and the lake.
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Transfer :
08:00 -
Estelí - San Jorge
- Distance: 233 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 4:00h - Ferry : 14:30 - San Jorge - Moyogalpa - Distance: 25 km. Average travel time: 1:00h
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Transfer :
15:30 -
Moyogalpa - Altagracia
- Distance: 22 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 40 minutes
Destination Info: Isla de Ometepe
Once thought to have been the promised land by Aztec explorers, Isla de Ometepe is made up of two imposing volcanic cones rising out of western Lake Nicaragua. Ometepe has been inhabited for thousands of years due to its fertile volcanic soils, and evidence of its past can be found in archeologic sites dotted all around the island. Most travelers come here for the sandy beaches, clean waters, diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, with numerous forests, waterfalls and springs in the island's center. Ometepe is beautiful, unique and one of Nicaragua's lesser-known highlights.
Finca San Juan de la Isla
Located lakeside at Santo Domingo Beach, this laid-back and authentic Nicaraguan hacienda is a beautiful and welcoming base for your time in Ometepe. There are wonderful views of the lake and Concepción Volcano, and plenty of activities on offer such as birdwatching, hiking in nature reserves, mountain biking, horseback riding and volcano climbing. The comfortable rooms and bungalows are set throughout the lush grounds of this fruit tree plantation, whilst the restaurant serves locally produced and delicious meals.
Rooms: Double Room - Lake Front cabin
Day 12 The Highlights|BL-
Today, you will visit the main sites of the island, in a combined nature, culture and history quest.
Included Experiences
09:00 Ometepe Island - Highlights (-L-)
Experience the highlights of Ometepe along with a local guide, learning about the nature and culture which have shaped this unique island. The tour starts with a visit to Finca Magdalena, a working community-run coffee plantation where you can meet some of the locals and see how they live and work. You'll continue to the Charco Verde Nature Reserve and Chico Largo lagoon, a mystic place that has inspired local legends, before visiting a site where you can see artifacts from the island's original, Pre-Columbian inhabitants. The tour finishes with a trip into the forest to see the spring at Ojo de Agua, where you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water.
Finca San Juan de la Isla
Day 13 A marvelous retreat in the Emerald Coast|B--
Today, you head towards the Emerald Coast, on the Pacific Ocean, for a three night beach retreat.
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Transfer :
07:30 -
Altagracia - Moyogalpa
- Distance: 25 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 30 minutes - Ferry : 09:00 - Moyogalpa - San Jorge - Distance: 25 km. Average travel time: 1:00h
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Transfer :
10:00 -
San Jorge - El Astillero
- Distance: 56 km.
- Road is in average condition.
Average travel time: 1:45h
Destination Info: Tola & the Emerald Coast
The Tola region, commonly referred to as the "Nicaraguan Riviera" or "Emerald Coast", is an idyllic getaway with isolated Pacific beaches and dramatic coastlines which remain relatively undiscovered. There are very few areas left in the world with such immense natural beauty and little development. Separated from each other by rolling green hills, the pristine beaches and peaceful bays are perfect for some relaxation away from the crowds, whilst inland you can discover forests full of diverse wildlife. World-class waves attract a steady stream of surfers, whilst the area is also great for horseback riding, hiking, fishing, birdwatching and marine turtle observation.
Hotel Punta Teonoste
Located on a beautiful stretch of beach near small the fishing village of El Astillero, Punta Teonoste offers an ideal base from which to enjoy the incredible nature of Nicaragua's Emerald Coast. Designed using traditional techniques and renewable materials such as stone, local wood, and palm leaves, each comfortable bungalow offers a beautiful open-air bathroom with a tropical garden.
Punta Teonoste has all the amenities you'll need for a comfortable and relaxing stay, and offers a range of tours and activities. There's also a swimming pool, and a fabulous restaurant housed under a traditional 'palapa'.
Rooms: Double Room - One Bedroom Beachfront View Bungalow (A/C)
Day 14 Free day at the Emerald Coast|B--
Day at leisure to enjoy your beach resort. You might want to take a tour to the tropical dry forest to see marine turtles (seasonal), or perhaps enjoy a horseback riding tour or surf lessons.
Hotel Punta Teonoste
Day 15 Day at leisure in the Emerald Coast|B--
Hotel Punta Teonoste
Day 16 Transfer to the International Airport|---
Today, you wil depart the Emerald Coast at a convenient time for your departure flight at the International Airport in Managua. Thank you for traveling with us, we are thrilled you got to experience Panama and Nicaragua.
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Transfer :
El Astillero - Managua airport
- Distance: 112 km.
- Road is in good condition.
Average travel time: 2:45h
Drop off point: Managua Airport - International Flights
Upon arrival at the Augusto Cesar Sandino International Airport in Managua, head to the check-in counter. Pass through security and onward towards your gate and outbound international flight. There are no fees to be paid, unless your departure tax (42 USD) is not included in your ticket. Facilities within the airport include a bank, restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, duty free shops, and a VIP lounge (charges apply).
Sustainability
CO2 compensation
In this reservation you traveled 1412 km approximately. This produces 137.95 kg of C02. It takes 9.08 trees to compensate for the environment impact.
Our sustainable suppliers
Social Commitment Project
- Hotel Los Arcos : The hotel is owend by NGO `Fundacion Familias Unidas`, all profits go to the foundation. The hotel and restaurant, which were completely constructed by brickwork students from the foundation´s training center, provide an interactive classroom for hotel and restaurant management students. With the assistance of the school leadership, students run all of the day-to-day operational tasks and in turn, provide customers with a comfortable, cozy, and pleasant place to stay while in Estelí. All of the profits generated from the hotel go towards the funding of other "Fundacion Familias Unidas" projects.
For our comprehensive sustainability policy, we invite you to visit our website: www.vapues.com/sustainability
Note: Alternative hotels will be booked if quoted properties are unavailable at time of booking, possibly affecting provided net rates. We accept credit card payments up to a maximum of 1000 USD, without a surcharge. For larger sums we encourage payment through wire (bank) transfer. The quoted itinerary is subject to change, due to possible unforeseen circumstances.
Included
- Meet & greet
- Information package with maps and a detailed itinerary
- Lodgement at hotels as mentioned or similar
- Breakfast on indicated days
- Lunch on indicated days
- Dinner on: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3
- Transfers and Ferry tickets
- Tours mentioned with an English speaking guide + entrance fees.
- VAT / taxes
Not Included
- International flights
- Meals other than mentioned
- Migration fees
- Personal expenses
- Optional tours/activities
- Tips nor porters
Contact details Vapues Travel
Nicaragua: Los Robles, casa # 45Phone: (+505) 2270-1936
info@vapues.com