A cruise. To a certain kind of traveler, the mere suggestion sounds like a dirty word. It conjures up images of conga lines, endless buffets, and hairy chest contests. However, cruises don’t always have to be like that.
There are many cruises that provide a comprehensive view of a country and its culture, offering adventure of a different sort. With its lush rainforests and diverse bodies of water teeming with wildlife, Panama is the perfect backdrop for this type of excursion.
Currents of History
One excellent option is the Panama Canal Expedition Cruise and Adventure, offered by EcoCircuitos, a tourism organization that promotes eco-tourism and education. This seven-day journey immerses you in Panamanian culture both on the ground and aboard the 110-foot Panama Discovery catamaran, which accommodates 24 guests with 11 crew members and is equipped with kayaks and snorkeling gear.
From visits to the world-renowned BioMuseo to exploring the ruins of Fort San Lorenzo and Casco Viejo, the lengthy history of Panama and its people gradually unfolds during the initial days. From the Cathedral Tower in Old Panama to the flavorful dishes served in Colon, Spanish and African influences are woven into the fabric of Panamanian culture.
Passageway to Adventure
The journey begins with a southbound passage down the Panama Canal, which showcases an incredible feat of engineering. It’s essential to appreciate how breathtaking the Panama Canal truly is. The scale of this man-made wonder is astounding, making it hard to comprehend.
Position yourself at the front of the ship for a unique view of the intricate workings of the lock system. It’s one thing to stand on the side and look down from the Miraflores Visitor Center, but being on the water, waiting for the massive metal doors to open and usher you through to the Pacific Ocean is an entirely different experience.
Visiting the Emberá
The hosts appear suddenly as the motorboat slowly docks at the river’s edge, with brightly-colored fabrics contrasting sharply against the dense green jungle. After an hour-long ride up the Rio Sambú, the welcoming smiles of the Emberá people create an inviting atmosphere.
The indigenous Emberá – “The River People” – have resided in the Darién region for centuries. They work with tour operators to showcase their culture to travelers. Under a thatched roof made from Nahuala palm leaves, the village’s chief educates visitors about their way of life, presenting intricate carvings made from tagu nuts, as well as tightly woven baskets and masks crafted from Nahuala palm fibers.
The women perform a traditional healing dance called the ñeque, followed by a social dance (rumba and cumbia) involving both men and women. Prepare to be pulled onto the dance floor, as participation may be expected.
Approximately 300 individuals reside in the village, which features a school, a store, and a functioning phone booth. Wooden houses are built on stilts to protect against potential floods, yet several families still manage small gardens out front, adding a charming touch.
The people are hospitable, but it’s vital to show respect. Always ask for permission before taking photographs, and, regardless of how cute the children may be, avoid handing out phones or cameras, as it may disrupt their way of life. Be sure to bring extra cash (in US dollars) to buy handcrafted goods like baskets and jewelry made by the women of the village. If you’re tempted to get a traditional temporary jaguar tattoo, opt against having it on your face, as the dark natural dye can be quite striking initially and may surprise you afterward.
Panama’s Natural Playground
The cruise continues with a visit to one of the most popular destinations: the Pearl Islands. Formerly renowned for their abundance of pearl oysters, these islands in the Gulf of Panama have become a natural playground. Even the TV series “Survivor” has filmed on location here – twice! The diverse array of islands has something for everyone, offering sandy beaches, jagged rocks for exploration, calm waters for kayaking, and an abundance of fish, including parrot fish and king angelfish, transforming snorkeling into an exhilarating experience.
A significant aspect of the expedition is knowledge sharing. There are two EcoCircuitos guides on board, each with a wealth of information covering topics from Panama’s history to its vibrant wildlife. Following a gourmet dinner, evenings on the vessel often include a slideshow presentation detailing the history of the locations visited that day.
After disembarking on the final day, the adventure continues. Guides lead you along Gamboa Road to Soberania National Park for a hike and a stop at the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center. The brave can ascend the Rainforest Tower, standing 131 feet tall, providing an exceptional view of the rainforest canopy.
The center’s mission is to inform visitors about eco-positive projects and sustainability initiatives. Hummingbirds, green iguanas, and the beloved three-toed sloth fill the rainforest, while the “pack of dogs” you may hear are, in fact, howler monkeys making their presence known from miles away.
Ultimately, there’s nothing wrong with organized activities, pool time, and dancing until you drop. But for those seeking deeper experiences, substantial adventure awaits on the waterways of Panama.
Alicia Johnson traveled to Panama with support from EcoCircuitos. GoTravelDaily contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
