Panama Birding Expedition: Panama Canal, Darien National Park & Embera Indigenous Encounter, July 5th – 14th.

This exclusive 10-day birding expedition invites you to immerse yourself in Panama’s remarkable landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant avian life. From the lush forests surrounding the iconic Panama Canal to the remote wilderness of Darien National Park, this journey offers unparalleled opportunities for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Our path will take us through Soberanía National Park, along the world-renowned Pipeline Road, and into the heart of Darien National Park, where the Embera Indigenous people live in harmony with the natural world. The tour's ultimate goal is to observe some of Panama’s most magnificent bird species, including the elusive Harpy Eagle, Crested Eagle and many other Neotropical species. Trip Highlights • Panama Canal & Soberanía National Park Begin your journey near the Panama Canal, exploring Soberanía National Park’s verdant forests along Pipeline Road—an internationally renowned birding destination. Here, we’ll look for colorful species such as motmots, tanagers, honeycreepers, toucans, and the occasional appearance of the Lance-tailed Manakin. Hummingbird feeders at Cerro Azul provide close encounters with these jewel-like birds, making for an unforgettable start to our adventure. • Darien National Park Venturing deep into Darien, we’ll enter one of Panama’s most biodiverse and remote regions, home to a remarkable range of wildlife. Here, we’ll navigate winding rivers by dug-out canoe, hike forest trails, and scan the treetops for the Harpy Eagle, Panama’s national bird and the world’s most powerful raptor. Our sightings may include the Crested Eagle, as well as rare mammals like Ocelots, Tapirs, and night monkeys that share these pristine forests with Panama’s bird species. • Embera Indigenous Community A highlight of our journey is a visit with the Embera people, who have lived in Darien for centuries, coexisting with the rich biodiversity that surrounds them. This immersive cultural experience allows us to learn about their traditions, knowledge of local flora and fauna, and their deep connection to this extraordinary environment. Why Join This Expedition? This small-group tour is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring an intimate, well-guided experience that allows for personal interactions with expert guides and fellow travelers. From birdwatching along the Panama Canal to the heart of the remote Darien jungle, this 10-day journey provides the chance to see Panama’s incredible biodiversity up close and offers an authentic look into the culture and traditions of the Embera people. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that celebrates the natural beauty, cultural richness, and unmatched birdlife of Panama. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a nature enthusiast, this expedition promises encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating species in one of Central America’s last great wildernesses.

Tuition: $1,800
Deadline: March 15th, 2025