The Panama Canal, Pearl Islands, and Darién Jungle: Tropical Wonders and Vibrant Cultures
Embark on our only Central American expedition that travels solely through Panama, connecting you more deeply with the region's wildlife, culture, and famed modern engineering marvel. Aboard the National Geographic Quest, transit the historic Panama Canal by day and by night. Learn about the country’s indigenous and colonial history while visiting local communities and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Encounter monkeys, iguanas, tropical birds, and more as you venture into lush rainforests, a wildlife refuge, and an important national park. In the surrounding turquoise waters, snorkel pristine coral reefs which shelter an array of colorful marine life.
Highlights
Transit the legendary Panama Canal—plus enjoy an exclusive stop at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Barro Colorado Island
Discover the storied Spanish architecture and fascinating pirate history of Portobelo, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Explore Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge and spot sea turtles and black and green iguanas on the beach or while snorkeling offshore
Meet the indigenous Emberá people of Darién in Playa Muerto Village and learn about their customs, traditions, and deep reverence for their natural surroundings
Sea kayak, hike, Zodiac cruise, and snorkel in the tranquil Pearl Islands, a network of 200 islands known for turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and an enduring connection to the pearl trade
From
$7,389
/ per person
Does not include any flights
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2024-2026
From
$7,389
/ per person
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2024-2026
From
$7,389
/ per person
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2024-2026
Dates & Rates
Ships
National Geographic Quest
Guests
100
Cabins
50
National Geographic Quest: Designed for Adventure
Built in 2017, National Geographic Quest is ideal for the fast-moving channels and shallow coves of the Pan-American waters. Her design and engineering were informed by our nearly 40 years of experience in the narrow straits of Alaska, the coast of Costa Rica, and into the gray whale nursery lagoons of Baja.
Examples of features unique to Lindblad Expeditions include twin boarding platforms that enable our team to load two Zodiacs at once, so our guests can get off the ship quickly to take advantage of wildlife sightings and maximize exploring time. She also features a shallow draft, allowing her Captain to navigate the inner reaches and provide more intimate experiences.
Modern, clean-lined, with large expanses of glass to take in the extraordinary views, National Geographic Quest enables guests to see, do, and experience the best of her geographies.
Book now and join us on an unforgettable journey
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Expedition Extensions
Expedition Team
Over 50+ years of exploring, Lindblad Expeditions’ veteran staff and the quality companionship they provide has established the company’s reputation. From expedition leaders to naturalists, most hold advanced degrees and are established authorities in their fields. Some join a few expeditions each year to explore the same sites, some of them spending some time in the field away from rigorous academic work. And others lead expeditions all around the world—with many guests saying, “Where you’re going, we’re going,” and returning time after time to travel with them. Browse our team directory to discover the full cast of expedition staff.
Special Offers
SUITE EXCLUSIVES
10% OFF BACK-TO-BACK VOYAGES
SAVE 5% TRAVELING AS A GROUP
BRINGING THE KIDS
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
COMBINING OFFERS
Combine now and save!
View our brochure for more details
Explorations 2024-2026