EXPLORE COSTA RICA & PANAMA
Lush Habitat, Wildlife, Wellness, Expedition Cruising & Adventure
Costa Rica offers everything from rainforests to volcanoes and beach. You can experience adventure, sun, sand, forest, wildlife and wellness, to name a few. With over 1000 species of orchid alone, you will never run out of things to discover.
Thanks to the nation’s successful efforts to preserve its natural heritage Cost Rica has become one of the most desired destinations for discerning travelers. Combine this with the less traveled Panama and you’re in for a real treat.
In Panama, take VIP tour of the Panama Canal and the capital’s Old Quarter, before you board a private plane to the spectacular secluded San Blas archipelago. Tour these paradisiacal islands aboard a private catamaran, snorkel in crystal clear waters, enjoy a freshly caught fish dinner and learn about the well-preserved culture of the native Guna people.
Another great way to experience both countries is on a small expedition cruise, with a company like Linblad. These small cruise ships are able to enter areas that the larger cruise ships cannot. Instead of stopping at busy ports they are able to dock on the edge of unchartered lands and National Parks, so you won’t see any other people around!
Travelling with kids?
Wildlife, jungles, volcanoes and beaches galore make them both especially appealing to families looking for a unique, engaging, outdoor adventure intertwined with culture and history.
How to get there
Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is 17 mi/28 km northeast of Panama City is the main airport serviced by many airlines from North America.
When to go
The high season is mid-December to mid-April, when it rains the least. Nonetheless, except for the highlands (where there is year-round springlike weather) and the Azuero peninsula (which is generally hot and dry), Panama is nearly always hot and humid, with days in the 80s-90s F/28-37 C and nights not much cooler.
With the aid of air-conditioning and sea breezes, Panama can be enjoyed all year, though you should expect it to rain daily during the May-November rainy season. You’ll need a sweater or jacket in the mornings and evenings in the mountains.
Costa Rica
The best time to visit is the relatively dry period of December-May. January is our favorite time to go, but Costa Rica is really a year-round destination. June-October is the “green season.” The vegetation looks nicer then, and prices are lower, but you can almost be guaranteed at least a brief thunderstorm every day in late afternoon or early evening.
Temperatures in San Jose and the Central Highlands are moderate to springlike (and even alpine and cool at higher elevations), and a breeze almost always blows. The mountains can be quite cool at night. Coastal areas tend to be hot and steamy, but hot and dry in the Pacific northwest.
Guanacaste has a pronounced dry season and can be insufferably hot in summer away from the shore. Along the coast, humidity generally increases southward. An umbrella and other rain gear are necessities no matter when you visit.
OUR TOP PICKS
El Otro Lado Panama
Located in a UNESCO World Heritage site 1h15 minutes from Panama International Airport is El Otro Lado, a tropical rainforest water-front private retreat in Portobelo Bay. This unique and beautiful property has just five villas with a total of 8...
Pacuare Lodge Costa Rica
2 ½ hours from San Jose airport with arrival by river rafting, land cruiser or helicopter, Pacuare Lodge is set on 860 acres of privately-owned rainforest along the Pacuare River, one of the top ten scenic rivers in the world. The river front main luxury lodge has a...
Hacienda AltaGracia Costa Rica
Set among the mountains of Costa Rica, this stunning, secluded estate offers something for everyone. Relax on the lush grounds or adventure into the surrounding lands by horseback or river rafting, you really cannot go wrong here. Virtuoso...