AEV

Caribbean Sea COSTA RIC A San Blas Islands Panama Canal Colón Golfo de los Mosquitos Panama Chiriquí Balboa Grande P A N A M A Rio Hato Remedios Golfo de Chiriqui Chitré Las Tablas Golfo de Panama Garachiné Isla Coiba CO LOMB IA 0 0 PANAMA Panama is an unspoiled display of lush tropical beauty, where never-ending sun, sea and nature create a unique escape. Perhaps the most famous sight is the Panama Canal, a man-made wonder where you can travel through one of the greatest feats of engineering. But that's just the start. Panama is a place alive with a heartbeat all its own. A place of oceans, mountains with volcanic valleys and historic visits of explorers like Sir Francis Drake, Sir Henry Morgan and Sir Edward Vernon. There, the melting pot of Spanish settlers and West Indians contribute to a diverse population as varied as the land itself. Enjoy adventure tourism and all that the rich culture has to offer, from pre-colonial to modern. This country is a true multi-destination. miles km 100 PACIFIC OCEAN 100 VACATION ENHANCING TOURS PANAMA CITY AND CANAL TOUR Enjoy the architectural wonders of the "Eighth Wonder of the World," and the vibrancy and beauty of the capital of the republic! Start at the Miraflores Locks, where your expert guide will explain the history surrounding the building of the Canal while you experience its magnificent architecture and view the ships transitioning through. In the colonial city of Panama visit the "Causeway," an entertainment paradise with spectacular city views. Across the bay, visit Casco Antiguo, founded in 1673 and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its charming mixture of colonial architecture, ethnic diversity and wealth of history in its carefully restored churches and museums. Tour includes transportation, guide, Miraflores Locks entrance fee and visit to a local handicraft market. (4 hours, from Panama City) OLD CITY DISTRICT AND PANAMA CITY This tour is identical to the Panama City and Canal Tour, without the Panama Canal visit. It includes transportation and guide. (3 hours, from Panama City) Continue your Panamanian adventure on one of the pristine beaches, where snorkeling in the Caribbean or surfing the waves of the Pacific can either bring you a rush or complete calmness. When you dig a little deeper in Panama, a whole new world is unveiled. As you survey the lush rainforests, you may catch a glimpse of the rare quetzal, multi-colored birds of paradise growing wild, or tamarind monkeys swinging from tree to tree. Panama's marine parks are a wonderland of aquatic life where reptiles lay their eggs on beaches, humpback whales pass by on their annual migration, and the speckled dolphin frolic in the waves. Hike to the top of an extinct volcano for a panoramic view from ocean to ocean. Take a quick hop to the untouched San Blas Islands, where aboriginal tribes maintain their ancient cultures and traditions. Maybe discover Panama City's colonial history and exciting nightlife. As you'll see, there is plenty more than meets the eye in Panama. PANAMA CANAL PARTIAL TRANSIT Enter the Canal at the north end of the Gaillard Cut, and travel through the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores Locks, before reaching the Pacific Ocean. Sail to the beautiful Flamenco Marina, passing under the Bridge of the Americas, and admire the Bay of Panama and the splendid skyline before disembarking. GAMBOA AERIAL TRAM & ECOLOGICAL EXHIBITS Experience the verdant rainforest from within, ascending 280 feet through the dense undergrowth and up to the sun-drenched canopy amidst the vibrant colors of flowering trees. GATUN EXPEDITION BOAT TOUR After an exhilarating 20-minute high-speed ride through the Canal, enter the labyrinth of jungle-covered islands of Lake Gatun. In this protected area the wildlife is plentiful; you're likely to encounter capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, three-toed sloth, various birdlife and a wealth of butterflies. Consult your American Express travel counselor for more details on these and other tours, as well as for available airport transfers. Panama 23

• Cover