NEW TRIP

Explore Costa Rica's Natural Reserves and Cross the Panama Canal

Exploring the Wonders of Costa Rica and Panama

Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica

15 Days

From $13,395

Level 1+

Easiest

Overview

    Contact Us Download Itinerary

    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Booking Discount
    20% off on all cabin categories for 2025 departure

    Overview

    Immerse yourself in the remarkable coastlines of Costa Rica and Panama. Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse regions on earth, and here you'll discover tropical rainforests teeming with an outstanding variety of wildlife, dazzling birdlife, and flamboyant flora. In Panama, explore pristine coral reefs, meet the indigenous Emberá tribe, and learn the remarkable history of the Panama Canal on a guaranteed daylight crossing from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea. Concluding in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, revel in the vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and the fascinating and colorful historic center—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Arrive: San Jose, Costa Rica

    Depart: Cartagena, Colombia

    Highlights

    • Explore some of the most biodiverse rainforests on earth, a chance to encounter wildlife including sloths and howler, spider, capuchin, and squirrel monkeys
    • Enjoy a guaranteed daylight crossing of the Panama Canal
    • Coiba National Park in Panama offers superb marine and terrestrial wildlife viewing opportunities, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Hidden in the remote Darién National Park, you will be warmly welcomed by the indigenous people of the Emberá Mogue community

    Overview

      Contact Us Download Itinerary

      Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

      Itinerary

      Download Itinerary Expand All Days

      Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.

      Having made your way to San Jose, you will be met and transferred to the group hotel. Enjoy free time, and in the evening, dine at your leisure (dinner not included). Overnight at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cariari (or similar).
      This morning, your luggage will be collected from the hotel and delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. There is time to settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings. Enjoy the thrill of departure as the ship sets sail for an exciting tropical adventure.
      Curú National Wildlife Refuge is a privately-owned nature reserve offering visitors outstanding eco-tourism experiences. The refuge is the first privately-owned refuge in Costa Rica, encompassing more than 3,700 acres of tropical forests, mangroves, and well-marked paths. Seventeen hiking trails wind through the varied terrain within the reserve, where you may see white-tail deer, armadillos, and iguanas. Various monkey species are prolific within the refuge including native capuchin, spider, and howler monkeys. Located on the southern Nicoya Peninsula of northwestern Costa Rica, the refuge is brimming with wildlife and hosts one of the most beautiful beaches and protected bays on the Nicoya Peninsula, a great place to enjoy water activities.
      Boasting over 100 species of mammals, 184 species of birds, and an impressive varietyof flora, Manuel Antonio National Park understandably attracts wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. Costa Rica's star attractions—two- and three-toed sloths, as well as white-faced monkeys, toucans, agoutis, armadillos, and coatis—are a few of the exciting animals you may encounter within the park. You'll explore in the cool, early hours of the morning before returning to the vessel for lunch. In the afternoon, you have the option to explore Quepos town or enjoy some water activities.
      The untamed Osa Peninsula is considered by National Geographic to be one of the most biologically intense places on earth. We plan to hike the trails at Rio Claro Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary that encompasses 500 hectares of tropical rainforests, making it one of the most important natural preserves in Central America. Rio Claro is one of the last refuges for pumas, ocelot, jaguarundis, tapirs, white-lipped peccaries, and a host of other rainforest animals. The high plateau forests, with trees towering over 140 feet, support hundreds of species of ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, and creates a biological corridor between palm swamps and mangroves. It is an extension of Corcovado National Park, the largest and one of the most remote parks in Costa Rica.
      Golfo Dulce, or Sweet Gulf, is a large bay that hugs pristine beaches, rivers, and tall evergreen forests—a protected area known as the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve. As one of the wettest places on Earth with over 200 inches of rainfall per year, the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve features some of the world's tallest trees.

      The warm tropical waters in the gulf are a great place to enjoy aquatic activities, where spinner dolphins are often seen frolicking in the bay. There are ancient coral reefs to explore, where you can see enormous coral gardens and the creatures that inhabit them. On land, there are more pristine rainforest trails for you to explore, where you can marvel at the extraordinary flora and fauna that contributes to Costa Rica's biodiversity.

      By Zodiac, shuttle ashore to Saladero Ecolodge and explore the gardens and walking trails filled with flowering plants. Keep a watch for birds including toucans, scarlet macaw, caracara, and woodpeckers.

      In Golfo Dulce you'll exit Costa Rica and continue the journey as the ship sails to Panama.
      Continue to Coiba Island, a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, located off the southwest coast of Panama. The national park includes the main island of Coiba and 38 smaller islands in the surrounding marine areas within the Gulf of Chiriquí. Protected from the cold winds and the effects of El Niño, the Pacific tropical forest of Coiba Island features exceptionally high levels of endemic mammals, birds, and plants. It is the last refuge for a number of threatened animals including the crested eagle.

      On Coiba Island, spend the morning in the area of Granito de Oro islet, a unique place that allows snorkelers to encounter a diversity and volume of marine life that is usually reserved for scuba divers. This is one of the world's most sought-after diving destinations. The local ranger will provide guidance on the optimal places where you can enjoy water activities.

      The following morning, you'll land at Punta Clara, which served as a penal colony from 1919 to 1996, where Panama's most notorious criminals and political prisoners were incarcerated. At the peak of its operations, the prison housed up to approximately 3,000 inmates in about 30 camps spread around the islands. You can visit the dilapidated penitentiary buildings or walk along the beach looking for scarlet macaws, yellow caracara, and various seabirds. Back on board, enjoy lunch as the ship sails toward the Pearl Islands.
      The Pearl Islands of Panama are an archipelago located in the North Pacific Ocean in the Gulf of Panama, covering around 250 small islands. The Spanish conquistadors discovered the islands in 1503 and they were originally named by the Spanish explorer Vasco Nuñez de Balboa due to the bountiful pearls that were harvested off the islands' shores. The Pearl Islands are most famous for their spectacular and tranquil white-sand beaches, untouched forests, and colorful coral reefs offshore that are ideal for diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.

      We plan to visit Bartolome Island to enjoy some paddle boarding, kayaking, and snorkeling in the warm, turquoise waters. You might also visit nearby Pacheca and Pachequilla islands to enjoy some birdwatching.
      Three million years ago, the Isthmus of Panama emerged from the sea and changed the world forever. It divided an ocean and joined two continents together, triggering one of the most important natural evolution events in the history of the world. Today, this narrow land bridge in Central America is home to more species of birds and trees than the whole of North America. Panama is, of course, world-famous for its 48-mile canal that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic Ocean.

      Panama's history has been formed by a rich pre-Columbian era for more than 12,000 years. Early cultures in Panama were the Monagrillo, the Cueva, and the Conte, particularly famous for their pottery, which was the first in the Americas. The first European claiming the territory of today's Panama was Rodrigo de Bastidas, coming from Colombia's Atlantic coast in 1501. In 1513 Vasco Nuñez de Balboa became the first Spaniard to see the Pacific Ocean from the top of a hill. Four days later he and his men stood at the shores of the Pacific Ocean. In 1519, Panama City was founded and became an important hub for seized goods making their way from Peru to Spain.

      You'll visit an Emberá village, an indigenous tribe who have inhabited this region for centuries. There are about 33,000 Emberá living in the Darién, Panama, and 50,000 in Colombia. On your visit to one of the Emberá villages near Panama City, you will be warmly welcomed by the local villagers and enjoy a presentation to learn about their history, culture, and way of life. On a guided walk through their village, you will meet more villagers who may show you inside their home, sample local snacks, and learn about their medicinal plants. The Emberá are renowned for their exquisite handmade jewelery and woven handicrafts, and you will have the chance to appreciate and purchase their work. In the afternoon, stop at the Miraflores Visitor Center overlooking the Miraflores lock of the Panama Canal. Four exhibition halls portray the canal's history and biodiversity, while three terraces and observation decks are ideal places for observing the canal's operation and the passage of ships through the locks.

      The following day, visit Gatun Lake, a large artificial lake with a unique ecosystem that forms a major part of the Panama Canal, carrying ships 20 miles on their transit across the Isthmus of Panama. At the time it was created, Gatun Lake was the largest artificial lake in the world. The vegetation at Gatun Lake offers ideal habitats for a large number of bird species. The excursion starts with boat trip that heads north on the canal for 25 minutes where you may get close to some of the larger ships that transit the canal daily. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the forested banks of Gatun Lake looking for wildlife such as capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, three-toed sloth, various kinds of toucans, and other bird life. This is a place to observe the raw regenerative power of the forest as it struggles to claim what was once wild. Enjoy lunch at a resort located in the shores of Gatun Lake.

      Afterwards, head to Casco Viejo, Panama's historic old quarter. Inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites in 1997, Casco Viejo is a compact treasure trove of 16th and 17th century colonial architecture. The oldest continuously occupied European city in the Americas on the Pacific coast, also known as Panama Viejo, was founded in 1519. The excursion includes visits to two exceptional sites as well as a guided walk around the historic quarter and the cobblestone streets for a leisurely look at many historic landmarks including Plaza Herrera, San José Church, Plaza Francia, Plaza Bolívar with the San Francisco de Asis Church, and Plaza Mayor (where the Metropolitan Cathedral is located). After the tour, you have the option of exploring Casco Viejo at your own pace or return to the ship. A shuttle service will be available to transfer you to the ship.
      Crossing the Panama Canal will surely be a highlight for many travelers. Each year, over a million people visit the canal to witness this engineering marvel at work. Starting in the Pacific Ocean, you will be able to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City's splendid skyline before passing under the "Bridge of the Americas." The vessel will then transit through the first set of locks, the Miraflores Locks, where it will be lifted 52 feet in two distinct steps. Next, your ship will enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Pedro Miguel Locks from Miraflores Locks. The vessel will transit through Pedro Miguel Locks, which is one of the two sets of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is lifted 29 feet in one step. After exiting Pedro Miguel locks, your boat will travel through the Gaillard Cut, where the Chagres River flows into the canal. The Gaillard 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. As you transit the cut you will see dredging occurring to control the sediments entering the canal because of the terrain's susceptibility to landslides. Sail through Gatun Lake, which was formed by erecting the Gatun Dam across the Chagres River, and during your transit through the lake, you will pass the Smithsonian Research Station at Barro Colorado. The last of the three locks is the Gatun Locks, the only set of locks in the Atlantic sector of the canal. At Gatun Locks, the vessel will be lowered a total of 85 feet in three distinct chambers.

      The complete crossing from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean takes approximately 10 hours, a journey that once took almost two weeks to complete, when vessels were forced to sail around the notoriously rough seas around Cape Horn at the bottom of South America to reach the Pacific coast.
      As you sail to Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, on the only sea day of the voyage, enjoy a few final presentations from the team of experts, edit photos, relax in the sauna and Jacuzzis, or stay active in the gym.
      Disembark in Cartagena de Indias, inscribed by UNESCO as a site of Outstanding Universal Heritage. The city's rich history, diverse culture, and energy captivates visitors with its vibrancy, Afro-Caribbean character, indigenous influences, and some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in all of South America. Founded in 1533 by Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena was formerly one of the gateways to the Caribbean for the Spanish. It was here they would store the riches plundered from South America before they were transported back to the old world. It is not surprising, therefore, that the city drew the attention of buccaneers and pirates, who attempted on many occasions, to seize the city. Most notable was the attack by Francis Drake, who in 1586, "mercifully" agreed not to destroy the city in return for 10 million pesos. It was after the attack by Drake that plans were made to fortify the city and work on the defensive fort walls began. These walls still mark the boundary between the old and new parts of the city and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

      After disembarkation, enjoy a guided introductory tour of Cartagena's old town. Your local guide tells tales of Cartagena from ancient times to present day, while you visit the citiy's sites, from the Plaza San Pedro Claver with its stunning church and monastery, to the Plaza Bolivar and Inquisition Palace, considered to be one of the most elegant colonial constructions of its time. The cloister where Pedro Claver lived and died has become a special place of silence and reflection, a shrine to his life's work that centered around the protection of slaves. Lunch is classic Colombian fare, with time to wander the eclectic streets of colorful terraced homes and classical colonial architecture before transferring to your waterfront hotel mid-afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight at Ermita, Cartagena, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel (or similar). Breakfast and lunch included.
      Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and check out of your room before transferring to the airport for your onward journey.

      Dates & Pricing

      Payment & Cancel Schedule

      At time of reservation: $2,500 per person
      90 days prior to departure: Balance

      Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

      Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

      Minimum fee: $2500 per person
      90 days or less: 100% of trip cost

      *Please note that this differs from our regular catalog departures.

      Included
      • All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
      • One night's hotel accommodation in San Jose, including breakfast on Day 2
      • Transfer from hotel to pier on Day 2
      • One night's hotel accommodation in Cartagena de Indias, including breakfast on Day 15
      • On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service
      • All meals, snacks, tea, and coffee during voyage
      • Beer, house wine, and soft drinks with dinner
      • Shore excursions, Zodiac cruises, lectures, and guiding services
      • Port surcharges, permits, and landing fees
      Not Included
      • International or domestic flights not mentioned in the itinerary
      • Transfers unless specified in the itinerary
      • Airport arrival or departure taxes
      • Passport, visa, reciprocity, and vaccination fees and charges
      • Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges
      • Hotel accommodation and meals unless specified in the itinerary
      • Optional excursions or activities
      • All items of a personal nature including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, wi-fi, email, or phone charges.

      Accommodations

      Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

      Greg Mortimer

      Days 2-13 (12 nights)

      One of the most advanced expedition ships in the world, the 132-passenger Greg Mortimer (named after the well-known Australian mountaineer and explorer) was built to world-class polar standards with the most up-to-date safety and nautical technology. Her unique, inverted bow allows for more gentle sea crossings, improved comfort, and reduced...

      What the Trip is Like

      The trip is rated Level 1, Easiest, and is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active. Zodiac landing crafts are used to transport passengers ashore for walks to wildlife sanctuaries, scenic nature areas, and local towns and villages. There are also opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Some agility is required for getting in and out of landing crafts.
      Review Trip Level Details

      Book your trip today

      Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

      Itinerary

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      Trip Levels

      With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

      Level 1 – Easiest

      Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

      Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

      Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

       

      Level 3 – Moderate

      Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

      Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

       

      Level 5 – Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

      Level 6 – Very Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

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The Pearl Islands are most famous for their spectacular and tranquil white-sand beaches, untouched forests, and colorful coral reefs offshore that are ideal for diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. <br><br>We plan to visit Bartolome Island to enjoy some paddle boarding, kayaking, and snorkeling in the warm, turquoise waters. You might also visit nearby Pacheca and Pachequilla islands to enjoy some birdwatching.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":11,"Headline":"Panama City","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Three million years ago, the Isthmus of Panama emerged from the sea and changed the world forever. It divided an ocean and joined two continents together, triggering one of the most important natural evolution events in the history of the world. Today, this narrow land bridge in Central America is home to more species of birds and trees than the whole of North America. Panama is, of course, world-famous for its 48-mile canal that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic Ocean. <br><br>Panama's history has been formed by a rich pre-Columbian era for more than 12,000 years. Early cultures in Panama were the Monagrillo, the Cueva, and the Conte, particularly famous for their pottery, which was the first in the Americas. The first European claiming the territory of today's Panama was Rodrigo de Bastidas, coming from Colombia's Atlantic coast in 1501. In 1513 Vasco Nu&ntilde;ez de Balboa became the first Spaniard to see the Pacific Ocean from the top of a hill. Four days later he and his men stood at the shores of the Pacific Ocean. In 1519, Panama City was founded and became an important hub for seized goods making their way from Peru to Spain. <br><br>You'll visit an Ember&aacute; village, an indigenous tribe who have inhabited this region for centuries. There are about 33,000 Ember&aacute; living in the Dari&eacute;n, Panama, and 50,000 in Colombia. On your visit to one of the Ember&aacute; villages near Panama City, you will be warmly welcomed by the local villagers and enjoy a presentation to learn about their history, culture, and way of life. On a guided walk through their village, you will meet more villagers who may show you inside their home, sample local snacks, and learn about their medicinal plants. The Ember&aacute; are renowned for their exquisite handmade jewelery and woven handicrafts, and you will have the chance to appreciate and purchase their work. In the afternoon, stop at the Miraflores Visitor Center overlooking the Miraflores lock of the Panama Canal. Four exhibition halls portray the canal's history and biodiversity, while three terraces and observation decks are ideal places for observing the canal's operation and the passage of ships through the locks. <br><br>The following day, visit Gatun Lake, a large artificial lake with a unique ecosystem that forms a major part of the Panama Canal, carrying ships 20 miles on their transit across the Isthmus of Panama. At the time it was created, Gatun Lake was the largest artificial lake in the world. The vegetation at Gatun Lake offers ideal habitats for a large number of bird species. The excursion starts with boat trip that heads north on the canal for 25 minutes where you may get close to some of the larger ships that transit the canal daily. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the forested banks of Gatun Lake looking for wildlife such as capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, three-toed sloth, various kinds of toucans, and other bird life. This is a place to observe the raw regenerative power of the forest as it struggles to claim what was once wild. Enjoy lunch at a resort located in the shores of Gatun Lake. <br><br>Afterwards, head to Casco Viejo, Panama's historic old quarter. Inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites in 1997, Casco Viejo is a compact treasure trove of 16th and 17th century colonial architecture. The oldest continuously occupied European city in the Americas on the Pacific coast, also known as Panama Viejo, was founded in 1519. The excursion includes visits to two exceptional sites as well as a guided walk around the historic quarter and the cobblestone streets for a leisurely look at many historic landmarks including Plaza Herrera, San Jos&eacute; Church, Plaza Francia, Plaza Bol&iacute;var with the San Francisco de Asis Church, and Plaza Mayor (where the Metropolitan Cathedral is located). After the tour, you have the option of exploring Casco Viejo at your own pace or return to the ship. A shuttle service will be available to transfer you to the ship.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":12,"DayTo":12,"Headline":"Daylight Crossing of the Panama Canal","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Crossing the Panama Canal will surely be a highlight for many travelers. Each year, over a million people visit the canal to witness this engineering marvel at work. Starting in the Pacific Ocean, you will be able to admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City's splendid skyline before passing under the \"Bridge of the Americas.\" The vessel will then transit through the first set of locks, the Miraflores Locks, where it will be lifted 52 feet in two distinct steps. Next, your ship will enter Miraflores Lake, which is a small artificial body of fresh water that separates Pedro Miguel Locks from Miraflores Locks. The vessel will transit through Pedro Miguel Locks, which is one of the two sets of locks on the Pacific side, and here the vessel is lifted 29 feet in one step. After exiting Pedro Miguel locks, your boat will travel through the Gaillard Cut, where the Chagres River flows into the canal. The Gaillard 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. As you transit the cut you will see dredging occurring to control the sediments entering the canal because of the terrain's susceptibility to landslides. Sail through Gatun Lake, which was formed by erecting the Gatun Dam across the Chagres River, and during your transit through the lake, you will pass the Smithsonian Research Station at Barro Colorado. The last of the three locks is the Gatun Locks, the only set of locks in the Atlantic sector of the canal. At Gatun Locks, the vessel will be lowered a total of 85 feet in three distinct chambers. <br><br>The complete crossing from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean takes approximately 10 hours, a journey that once took almost two weeks to complete, when vessels were forced to sail around the notoriously rough seas around Cape Horn at the bottom of South America to reach the Pacific coast.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":13,"DayTo":13,"Headline":"At Sea","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"As you sail to Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, on the only sea day of the voyage, enjoy a few final presentations from the team of experts, edit photos, relax in the sauna and Jacuzzis, or stay active in the gym.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":14,"DayTo":14,"Headline":"Cartagena de Indias","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Disembark in Cartagena de Indias, inscribed by UNESCO as a site of Outstanding Universal Heritage. The city's rich history, diverse culture, and energy captivates visitors with its vibrancy, Afro-Caribbean character, indigenous influences, and some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in all of South America. Founded in 1533 by Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena was formerly one of the gateways to the Caribbean for the Spanish. It was here they would store the riches plundered from South America before they were transported back to the old world. It is not surprising, therefore, that the city drew the attention of buccaneers and pirates, who attempted on many occasions, to seize the city. Most notable was the attack by Francis Drake, who in 1586, \"mercifully\" agreed not to destroy the city in return for 10 million pesos. It was after the attack by Drake that plans were made to fortify the city and work on the defensive fort walls began. 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If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>At time of reservation: $2,500 per person<br>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p><p><em>Please note that this differs from our standard policy.<\/em><\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-08T16:06:34 --><p>Minimum fee: $2500 per person<br \/>90 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br \/><br \/><em>*Please note that this differs from our regular catalog departures.<\/em><\/p>"}}