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The dual location tour exploring the amphibians and reptiles of Panama took in a lowland location in proximity to the canal within a National Park, followed by a higher altitude tour that enabled a number of different species to be observed. Moreover we were afforded the opportunity to observe numerous birds, mammals and invertebrates. We saw >30 species of amphibian and >20 species of reptiles in 9 days. Naturetrek was awesome, the planning and booking experience was excellent with accommodation of our needs taken in to account very quickly. In country, everything was taken care of allowing us to focus on seeing as many species as we could. In country transport, accommodation and food could not be faulted.
P.H., Renfrewshire, June 25
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The Reptiles & Amphibians of Panama
Tour Code: PAN06A 10-day tour focusing on the reptiles and amphibians of Panama's spectacular rainforests with the guidance of an expert herpetologist, whilst staying at the famous and magnificent Canopy Tower and Lodge.
10 days
from
£5,295
£5,295
Land only price
from
£4,495
£4,495
Highlights
Tour Itinerary and Reports
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Summary
A 10-day, 2-centre, wildlife holiday offering the opportunity to join an expert herpetologist and bilingual local naturalist guides in the heart of Panama's cloud and rainforests in search of a huge range of exciting reptile and amphibian species. Our tour begins with a 4-night stay at the Canopy Tower in Soberanía National Park. This rainforest eco-lodge boasts a stunning 50-foot observation deck and makes a breathtaking base to explore the surrounding forests. For the second part of the tour, we transfer to the Canopy Lodge in El Valle de Anton for a 4-night stay. Join our expert guides as we explore this hospitable and biodiversity-rich country in search of a magnificent variety of reptiles and amphibians.
For more information about the holiday, please click the 'Detailed Information' button below, or download the full itinerary above.
- Find and photograph the reptiles and amphibians that inhabit the incredible rain and cloudforest habitats of Panama
- Amphibians include Poison Frogs, Glassfrogs, Treefrogs and Mushroomtongue Salamanders
- Reptile highlights could include Eyelash Viper, Panama Teiid and White-lipped Mud Turtle
- Explore incredible habitats with an expert herpetologist guide
- Observe the other amazing wildlife that inhabit the area, from sloth to hummingbirds
This exciting tour is part of our portfolio of herpetology holidays.
With its’ tropical climate, Panama hosts some of the most iconic of herpetological species such as the Green Iguana (Iguana iguana), the Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor) and the Red-eyed Treefrog (Agalychnis callidryas). From the bold and brightly coloured Green-and-black Poison Frog (Dendrobates auratus) to the often cryptically beautiful Eyelash Viper (Bothriechis schlegelii), with our expert guides and multiple eyes scanning the floor and lower canopy, we have the chance to build a highly impressive list of reptile and amphibian species!
Carefully searching the forest diurnally and nocturnally we hope to see an amazing range of reptiles and amphibians. From tree-frogs to arboreal salamanders to freshwater turtles, the cloud and rain forests of Panama hosts a huge diversity. Along the tranquil trails and streams, we will look for such species as Water Anoles, Brilliant Forest Frogs, Coral Scorpion Lizards and the endemic and amazing Panamanian Teiid (Echinosaura panamensis).
Whilst searching for reptiles and amphibians, mammals we may see include Kinkajou, Fray Foureyed Opossum and of course Sloths; Brown-throated and Hoffmann's Two-toed. Spectacular birds share the forest including plenty of hummingbird and toucan species and there is even a chance of seeing the majestic Harpy Eagle .
Not only will we be delighted by the fauna offerings, but the habitat is a naturalists dream. Forest cloaked in epiphytes, mosses and ferns surround rocky streams. Huge tree-ferns provide dappled light where tiny-leaved climbers ascend lichen embossed tree trunks. Floral colour is provided by orchids, Passion Flower and Heliconias. Our first base, the Canopy Tower, originally a US Air Force radar station, was converted into a naturalist’s paradise in 1999 by a Panamanian birdwatcher. Here, with bedrooms at treetop level, there could be no better place to wake to the sounds of Panama's great rainforest. The main viewing deck offers superb 360º views over the canopy and the chance to observe exciting and otherwise difficult-to-see canopy wildlife.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1
In flight, arrive Canopy Tower
Day 2
Semaphore Hill & Ammo Pond
Day 3
Pipeline Road, Summit Pond and Old Gamboa
Day 4
Plantation Road, Gamboa Resort & “Tierra de Ranas” Display
Day 5
Transfer to Canopy Lodge, Canopy Adventure
Day 6
Cerro Gaital, Stream walk by the Lodge
Day 7
Altos del Maria
Day 8
La Mesa, El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center and El Valle Serpentarium
Day 9
Canopy Lodge, in flight
Day 10
Arrive London
What's Included?
- Flights
- Accommodation:
Four nights at the world-famous Canopy Tower and four nights at the nearby Canopy Lodge.
- Food:
All food is included in the tour cost starting with dinner on Day 1 and ending with breakfast on Day 9. Also included are natural fruit juices, sodas and wine at dinner time. Vegetarian and vegans are easily catered for.
Reviews
Dates & Prices
2026
Departures
Availability
Cost
Tue 23rd Jun – Thu 2nd Jul
5
£5,295
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£4,495
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£495
Tour Leader:
Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary
Samuel Sucre
Tour Leader: Samuel Sucre
Samuel 'Sam' Sucre is a passionate herpetologist, and was born amidst the natural beauty of Ancon Hill in Panama City. His profound connection with nature began in his teenage years, with a specific fascination for amphibians and reptiles.
Sam pursued his academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies at FSU’s Panama Campus. His commitment to amphibian and reptile conservation led him to collaborate with Panama’s leading herpetologists in various research and conservation initiatives.
Notably, Sam has played a pivotal role in two of Panama’s prominent ex situ conservation projects for amphibians. He currently serves as the Secretary of the EVACC Foundation, a globally recognized organization dedicated to amphibian ex situ conservation. Moreover, he founded 'Natural Tanks' a facility that conducts vital research and conservation through sustainable commercialisation.
In June 2023, Sam embarked on a groundbreaking endeavor by initiating Panama’s first permanent in situ conservation project for amphibians within the Santa Fe Natural Park, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment. Sam is also a notable presence in Panama’s digital media landscape, collaborating with FOCO, the country’s premier digital news outlet, to raise awareness through environmental news and videos. His life’s mission is to empower developing nations with the knowledge of sustainable resource utilisation, creating job opportunities, and fostering reinvestment in conservation to promote national development.
Sam Sucre embodies a remarkable commitment to wildlife conservation and the sustainable growth of communities through responsible resource management. Additionally, in 2023, a species of tarantula from Darien was described and named in his honor as Pamphobeteus sucreorum.
2027
Departures
Availability
Cost
Tue 22nd Jun – Thu 1st Jul
SPACES
£5,495
Flights:
Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.
Flights are included in the tour cost
Regional Departures:
On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.
Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051
Land only cost:
The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.
£4,695
Single Room Supplement:
Single Room Supplement.
£545
Why Naturetrek?
At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:
- The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
- Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
- Outstanding value and exceptional customer service
Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!
