Carolina Alumni Travel
- Overview
- Itinerary and Map
- Pricing Details
- Physical Needs
- Conditions
- Resources
A land of striking contrasts awaits, where Costa Rica’s renowned natural beauty and Panama’s tropical wildness meet the stark concrete and enduring power of the Panama Canal—one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels, in constant use for nearly a century. Travel by expedition ship on a rare two-day Panama Canal transit, offering an up-close journey through its intricate locks by both day and night – plus an exclusive stop at the Smithsonian Research Institute.
Along the way, venture deep into the jungle with special access to Corcovado National Park and meaningful visits with families living in remote communities on the Osa Peninsula. Explore jungle shorelines by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, snorkel vibrant undersea gardens, and cruise through mangroves by Zodiac. This biodiverse region is home to iconic wildlife, including brilliant macaws, howler and capuchin monkeys, sloths, and kaleidoscopic butterflies. Aboard National Geographic Quest, we benefit from privileged access and the expertise of an exceptional expedition team that brings depth and insight to every moment, from the canal’s steel and stone to the lush rainforests and colorful reefs beyond.
Day 1 - Arrive Panama City, Panama | Colon | Embark National Geographic Quest
Day 2 - Gatún Lake | Panama Canal Transit
Day 3 - Gulf of Panama Islets
Day 4 - Coiba National Park
Day 5 - Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica | Oso Peninsula
Day 6 - Corcovado National Park
Day 7 - Puerto Calder | Disembark | San José | Depart for home city
Base Price: from $6,451 per person, based on double occupancy
- Solo cabins available in limited categories and availability
- Airfare additional
Inclusions:
- 7 nights on board the National Geographic Quest.
- 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners, including Welcome and Farewell Receptions.
- Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages including 24-hour coffee, tea and soda on demand. Beer, wine, cocktails and spirits. Super premium wines and liquors are available for purchase.
Below are physical expectations required to fully enjoy the journey. We, and the tour operator, are happy to discuss the physical needs of this trip to ensure the best fit. Should you reserve space, be sure to share with the tour operator physical accommodations you may need i.e. Cpap machine, hearing aid for listening device, special medicine, etc.
- Rated: Moderate - 3 out of 5
- Consistent amount of walking most days, about 2-4 miles per day
- Trip features long touring days and may include travel via various modes of transportation.
- Travelers should be able to board without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain including cobblestones for extended periods of time.
- Elevators are not always available at sights or hotels
- Tar Heel Travel is a member exclusive perk.
- There must be one Carolina Alumni member in a room. Membership is open to anyone. Learn more.
- By reserving on this tour, you agree to the terms and conditions specific to this tour which are set by the tour operator. This information can be found in the tour brochure or on the tour operator’s website.
- The Carolina Alumni Travel Office and tour operator reserve the right to decline or accept a reservation should a person's health, mental condition, physical infirmity or attitude jeopardize the operation of the tour or the rights, welfare, or enjoyment of other participants. Refunds will be made in accordance with the cancellation policy listed in the tour brochure.