2017 - APT South America

86 Explore the tropical capital of Panama over three nights 22 or 28 Day Panama to Peru Including 9 Night Le Soléal Luxury Cruise from Panama City to Lima Day 1. Arrive Panama City (Panama). Welcome to Panama City, a sprawling tropical metropolis at the crossroads of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. On arrival at the airport, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. Three Night Stay: Panama City, Waldorf Astoria Panama. Day 2. Panama City. Today's touring begins as you travel out of the city to explore the World Heritage-listed ruins of Panama City's original European settlement, Panamá Viejo. Continue to the historic district, Casco Antiguo, and enjoy the old-world atmosphere as you wander the cobblestone streets. Pass the Plaza Francia and the Plaza Bolivar with its terracotta-coloured San Francisco Church. During dinner this evening, enjoy sweeping ocean views of Panama Bay and the city's modern skyline, including the busy entrance to the Panama Canal where ships are forever transiting the locks. BLD Day 3. Panama City, Panama Canal Railway, Colón, Portobelo. Rise early and join the Panama Canal Railway for a stunning journey to the city of Colón, set on the northern entrance of the Panama Canal. The railway takes you through the lush landscapes that have made Panama famous as it follows alongside the edge of the canal. Pass through the heart of Soberania National Park, enjoying captivating views of the jungle as well as the densely forested banks of Gatun Lake. Transportation awaits you at the station in Colón, which will take you directly towards Portobelo on the Caribbean coast. Founded in 1597, Portobelo was awarded World Heritage status thanks to its 17th and 18th-century fortifications, considered some of the most important ruins of colonial times. See the Iglesia de San Felipe church and enjoy some time to wander through the local museum, which depicts the colonial history of the region. Continue to a nearby beach for lunch and a refreshing swim in the ocean, then travel back towards Colón for a short tour which includes the Washington Walkway on Central Avenue, home to the monument of Christopher Columbus. Travel back to Panama City by coach and enjoy a free evening. BL Day 4. Panama City, Colón, Embark Cruise. Head back to Colón and embark Le Soléal for your nine-night cruise to Lima. Settle in to your stateroom, familiarise yourself with the ship's facilities and enjoy dinner on board tonight. Afterwards, perhaps celebrate the beginning of your journey with a nightcap in the lounge, the perfect place to mingle with your fellow cruising companions and relax before your first adventure tomorrow. Shore excursions are available at an additional cost and are subject to change. Nine Night Cruise: Le Soléal. BD Day 5. Colón, Panama Canal Crossing. Today you'll realise the dream of countless travellers and world wanderers as you join the parade of gigantic cruise ships and freighters along the mighty Panama Canal. This 77-kilometre journey will take you across the isthmus in a southerly direction from the Atlantic entrance all the way to the Pacific entrance at Panama City. Head to the sun deck for prime views as you transit the three locks – Gatun, Pedro Miguel and Miraflores – enjoying expert commentary on these fascinating sites along the way. No doubt today's experience will be a highlight of your journey. BLD Freedom of Choice TM – Sightseeing Freedom of Choice TM – Dining Signature Experiences www.aptouring.com.au

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