12-night Uncovering The Secrets Of Central America Voyage

There’s more to Panama than the canal. Panama’s ethnic mix is reflected in its arts. This is a proud nation that honors its many Indian tribes and its rich Spanish legacy. And with some of the finest deep-sea fishing, snorkeling and birding, once you embrace Panama, you’ll find it hard to leave.

Destination Guide

The friendly Cuna Indians live quietly on these primitive islands off Panama's Caribbean coast. The arrival of visitors to their home is still a special occasion for these isolated island dwellers. They are happy to be photographed in their colorful attire, for perhaps a small tip. Bargain for one of their fancifully designed handmade embroideries called molas.

Destination Guide

In the islands of Bocas you know you are on vacation the moment you arrive. You have an inmediate sense of unspoiled and unpolluted nature. The islands offer a great diversity of attractions and natural environments, uncommon to other regions of the continent: luxurious rain forests with an abundance of fauna and flora, sunny islands, beaches that compete with the Caribbean best, coral reefs in crystal clear water, mangrove islets in a lake-like scenery, guaymi indian villages and a national marine park that protects examples of the ecosystems and natural resources coexisting within the Archipelago boundaries, as a tribute to our future generations.

Destination Guide

Puerto Límon, on a palm-fringed shore backed by mountains, is the country's most important port. It was built on the site of an ancient Indian village, Cariari, where Columbus landed on his fourth and last voyage. Though he felt this was potentially a very rich land and named it Costa Rica, it never quite lived up to his expectations. However the spot where he anchored has proved to be the best port of the Caribbean coast. It was from here that the first shipments of bananas headed to North America in the late 19th century.

Destination Guide

Completely surrounded by dramatic reefs, Guanaja once served ancient Mayan and Payan Indians as a sacred and spiritual paradise. The lush island of Guanaja is the only Bay Island to boast mountains high enough to support a true river and scenic waterfalls. Unlike the other two islands, Guanaja remains the hidden treasure of the Caribbean. Besides attracting divers, anglers and adventure travelers with its tropical jungles, pure white sand and teeming reefs, Guanaja has also captured hearts of jetsetters, including international architects and world famous archaeologists/treasure divers, who have made the island their home or home away from home. Unlike the other Bay Islands, all transportation is by boat, adding to the island’s charm. Guanaja houses three small villages, Savannah Bight, Mangrove Bight, and “Bonacca Town” (Lo Cay). Christened “The Venice of the Caribbean” by author Jane Houlson (Blue Blaze 1934), “Bonacca” rises out of the sea, forming a 17-acre stilted town a few hundred meters offshore and is home to 75% of Guanaja’s population.

Belize City is the largest city in Belize. It offers the visitor an unusual combination of rustic, old-fashioned Caribbean charm and bustling modernity. The Belize River meanders through the middle of the city; and twice a day, the city's swing bridge closes to allow sail boats to pass. There are many traditional street vendors selling fruits, vegetables, arts and crafts in the city's public squares, especially in the colonial marketplace on Saturday mornings. Visitors can purchase handmade wood furniture made by the Mennonite community and many kinds of craft items from the National Handicraft center, as well as from vendors who congregate near the Belize Commercial Center. Belize City is an excellent starting off point for visitors wishing to explore the country by car (or 4-wheel drive). There are several major tourist attractions an hour's drive or less from Belize City, such as the Belize Zoo, Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, the Bermudian Landing Community Baboon Sanctuary, and the Mayan ruin site at Altun Ha.

Destination Guide

Lighthouse Reef is one of three atoll reefs off the coast of Belize. Lighthouse Reef is a premier location for diving, snorkeling and fishing adventures. There are also cabins available for visitors to enjoy, which are situated on a white sandy beach, near clear waters and palm trees. There is the fascinating lagoon filled with coral and marine life at the center of the island.

Destination Guide

The island of Cozumel lies just twelve miles off the Yucatan Coast, a 45 minute ferry ride from the famed Riviera Maya. Dive into the crystal blue waters of Cozumel and discover why Jacques Cousteau called it the "best diving area in the world." Palancar Reef, the second largest in the world, provides an incredible diversity of species, stunning sites and visibility of at least 150 feet. Whether you're a first time snorkeler or an experienced diver, the intricate coral reefs and teems of painted fish will amaze you!

Destination Guide

The island of Cozumel lies just twelve miles off the Yucatan Coast, a 45 minute ferry ride from the famed Riviera Maya. Dive into the crystal blue waters of Cozumel and discover why Jacques Cousteau called it the "best diving area in the world." Palancar Reef, the second largest in the world, provides an incredible diversity of species, stunning sites and visibility of at least 150 feet. Whether you're a first time snorkeler or an experienced diver, the intricate coral reefs and teems of painted fish will amaze you!

Destination Guide