05/10
Activity
1 Day
Duration
Panama City
Location

Visit the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute on a rainforest island in the Panama Canal.

Prices based upon a minimum of 2 participants.
PICK UP At your hotel in Panama City at 6:00 a.m.
WHAT TO WEAR

Comfortable athletic shoes and light leisure clothing, jacket, mosquito repellent and sunscreen. A hat and sunglasses are recommended. Hiking shoes are highly recommended during the rainy season.

HIGHLIGHTS
 World-class Wildlife Watching
 Scenic Rainforest and Canal Surroundings
 Expert Guides
 Visiting the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
INCLUDED
Private transportation
Lunch
Equipped naturalist guide
Entrance fees
NOT INCLUDED
 International airfares and taxes
 Domestic airfares and taxes
 Alcoholic beverages and meals not specified in the itinerary
 Optional activities
 Gratuities and departure tax at the airport

Your adventure begins with an early morning transfer through the tropical rain forest toward the small town of Gamboa where a boat will be waiting for us. We will cruise along the Gatun Lake in the Panama Canal to the Barro Colorado Natural Monument (BCNM), administered by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI). BCNM consists of 5,600 hectares (13,837 acres) of land located in the heart of the Panama Canal. It was established in 1923 and has been administered by the Smithsonian since 1946. Today we will be visiting Barro Colorado Island (BCI) which makes up 1,560 hectares and is the largest forested island in the Canal waterway. BCI is the Smithsonian’s primary site for the study of lowland moist tropical forests. While visiting the Island you may come across one of the many scientists carrying out research in this amazing outdoor laboratory!

You will learn about research in progress and the rich natural history of the BCNM. After a welcoming and introduction about natural history by your guide, you will go on a 2-3 hour walk along the trail on Barro Colorado Island. Most trails are about 2km long and include steep sections and stairs. The trails are not appropriate for people who suffer from heart and respiratory conditions, knee injuries or are in generally poor health. Also, if you are traveling from a non-tropical country, please note that tropical weather (high humidity and heat) can stress your body. We recommend staying well hydrated.

Note: This tour is not operated on Mondays and Thursdays. Please note this is a shared tour.