Jewels of Colombia and Panama

Experience the thrill of discovery as we explore a dramatic tropical panorama that begins in the colonial city of Cartagena, sweeps down the beautiful coastline of Colombia, and concludes with a lingering look at the breathtaking and mostly uninhabited San Blas Islands and a transit of the impressive Panama Canal. Cruising along the dazzling Caribbean coast aboard the 60-guest Sea Voyager, we stop to hike, kayak, swim, snorkel, and use our Zodiac craft to explore inviting beaches, coral reefs, and parks and islands framed by turquoise waters and lush tropical foliage. Numerous species of birds, mammals, and marine life make these environments their home, and add color and richness to the landscapes we find. We also meet the indigenous tribal populations who maintain many of the customs begun by their ancestors while making small adaptations to the modern world.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Cartagena, Colombia / Santa Marta

After a day to stroll the charming cobblestone streets of Cartagena and enjoy the ambiance of its bougainvillea-covered archways, we travel to Santa Marta and embark on the Sea Voyager.

Days 3-4
Tayrona National Park / San Bernardo Islands

Tayrona National Park extends from the steep, snow-capped slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the highest tropical coastal mountain chain in the world, to the sparkling waters of the Caribbean. We explore several sheltered bays ideal for kayaking and snorkeling, and hike the surrounding hills. At San Bernardo National Park, the only underwater park in Colombia, we snorkel, swim, and kayak over fragile coral reefs inhabited by a variety of fish whose movements and color resemble a choreographed ballet.

Days 5-6
Isla Fuerte / Capurgana and Sapzurro

With its dark sand beaches and inviting shoreline, Isla Fuerte has the widest range of pristine coral in the region and thousands of species of flora and fauna. We swim, snorkel, and kayak and, in the forest regions, search for sloths and the more than 80 species of birds. Capurgana has some of Colombia’s most spectacular and undeveloped beaches, while neighboring Sapzurro is a tiny gem of a coastal village with a coral reef only 30 feet offshore. Jungle hikes from Sapzurro offer a chance to explore nearby waterfalls.

Day 7
San Blas Islands, Panama

More than 365 islands spread out over the San Blas archipelago, but only a few are inhabited, populated by the self-governing Kuna Yala, one of the most culturally cohesive tribes of indigenous peoples.  We visit a local community, whose native women are renowned for their distinctive needlework, particularly their colorful reverse appliqué called molas, and enjoy the tranquility of turquoise water and perfect palm-shaded coral cays.

Days 8-9
Panama Canal Transit / Panama City

We transit the Panama Canal, the famous waterway between two oceans. Heavily forested hillsides rise up on either side of the canal, emphasizing the rainforest aspect of the land that was so laboriously altered. Disembark in Panama City and fly home.

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