Panama to PRISTINE PARKS ABOARD THE VOYAGER FEBRUARY 22 – MARCH 4, 2019

Emberá village Bay-headed tanager Orchid

MASSACHUSETTS AUDUBON

Mass Audubon’s roots were established in 1896 by Founding Mothers Harriet Lawrence Hemenway and Minna B. Hall, who persuaded ladies of fashion to forgo the cruelly harvested plumage that adorned their hats. Noted ornithologist William Brewster was enlisted as the Massachusetts Audubon Society’s first president (1896-1913) to advance legislation to restrict the killing of and sale of their plumage.

Environmental education and advocacy for conservation were driving forces from our beginnings. Mass Audubon continues 120+ years later, as a strong conservation leader. Mass Audubon Natural History Travel program began in the early 1960’s with the mission to share world-class birding with broader education about the natural world.

We—as an organization and individuals—are deeply committed to getting people connected to nature. However, the effects of climate change are evident, and we, as travelers, are often conflicted with our desire to explore new places while wanting to be responsible stewards of the natural world. Mass Audubon works to fight climate change, but we know we can do even more.

So in fall 2017, we teamed up with NativeEnergy to offset the carbon costs of all flights for Mass Audubon’s tours. NativeEnergy calculates the carbon footprint of all Mass Audubon tour related flights. These funds then finance carbon-reducing projects with strong social and environmental benefits. Fatimella Emesis butterfly Emberá children Turquoise-browed Motmot

Three-toed Yellow warbler Coiba National Park

MASS AUDUBON HAS BEEN TAKING TRAVELERS TO COSTA RICA AND PANAMA FOR OVER 40 YEARS!

But rarely do we get the opportunity to explore these fascinatingly diverse birding destinations by ship! This new and very special cruise - aboard the yacht Voyager - explores the rich Pacific coast – beginning at the world-famous Pipeline Road and remote Darién National Park in Panama.

We continue northwards to spend a day at Isla de Coiba - one of the last relics of tropical moist forest in Pacific Central America. Cruising north along the coast, we will have time to fully explore Coiba National Park, gorgeous Piedras Blancas National Park, Terraba-Sierpe Reserve, and ending at one of our favorite places: in Costa Rica. Along the way, we will be birding, snorkeling, river rafting, and learning.

For those who wish to extend their journey, ask us about our Costa Rica Birding tour: March 5- 15, 2018 with Jeff Collins, Director of Conservation Science at Mass Audubon. Peruto Caldera San José

Carara National Park COSTA RICA

Gamboa Rainforest Lodge Soberanía Panama City National Park

Piedras Blancas National Park Drake Bay PANAMA Corcovado National Park Punta Alegre

Darien National Park

Coiba National Park

Red-legged honeycreeper DAILY ITINERARY

Day 1 • Friday, February 22 ARRIVAL IN PANAMA CITY Fly today from your home to Panama City on independent flight arrangements. No matter what time you arrive we are there to meet you and take you to Gamboa Rainforest Lodge located about an hour from the airport.

Day 2 • Saturday, February 23 SOBERANÍA NATIONAL PARK & GATUN LAKE / EMBARK VOYAGER Those who would like an early start will meet your naturalist EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS guide and fellow birders over coffee, pastries and fruit before heading to Soberanía National Park. Our first stop will be Travel by small-ship for seven nights, ensuring access on Pipeline Road, where the Audubon Society held its world to remote areas. Christmas count record for 19 years straight, with 357 Explore famed national parks, including Soberania, species of birds identified in a period of 24 hours. The now home to over 530 species of birds & 105 species of abandoned gravel road built in World War II to transport mammals, as well as the remote Darien, one of Central fuel from one ocean to the other to maintain the pipeline America’s most ecologically diverse areas. provides excellent walking access to Soberanía’s 55,000 Swim & snorkel off the island of Granito de Oro. acres of tropical rainforest. The park boasts an impressive Discover the cultural traditions of the Emberá people. list of over 530 species of birds including the Black Hawk- Add to your life’s birding checklist at locations eagle, Black-cheeked woodpecker, Black-breasted Puffbird, throughout! Piedras Blancas National Park is an Broad-billed Motmot, Blue Cotinga, Purple-throated important gathering point for many birds from North Fruitcrow, Masked Tytira, Violaceous Trogon, Fasciated and South America. Antshrike, Shining honeycreeper and a great array of North American migrants.

Soberania is also home to 105 species of mammals including large felines, Tamandua, Two and Three-toed Sloth, 4 species Gamboa Rainforest Lodge

of monkeys, Agouti and 59 endemic plant species in 4 life zones. Also, visit the Rainforest Discovery Center where you enjoy spectacular views of Soberania National Park’s vastness and canopy bird species from the 100-foot observation tower. Standing above the canopy, witness the morning flight of Keel- billed Toucans, Red-lored Amazons and the silent and stealthy movement of Monkeys. You continue to explore the network of trails surrounding the Discovery Center and enjoy the hummingbird feeders that provide up close and personal views of 10 species of hummingbirds!

After early morning birding, we return to the lodge for a full breakfast and a bit of time to refresh before checking out Lunch is back aboard ship and in the afternoon the Emberá and enjoying a trip by boat across Gatun Lake which is part of people of the Mogue River have invited us to visit their the Panama Canal. Green iguana, Three-toed sloth, American community. The journey up river takes us through red, black crocodile, Snail Kite and Osprey in the hunt for peacock bass are and button making the boat ride extraordinary generally seen here. in itself. Look out for Neotropical Cormorant, Sswallow- Drive into town for lunch in a local restaurant. Later we visit tailed Kite, Black-hawk, Green Heron and Snowy the Museum which is a Smithsonian affiliate Egret along with Rufescent Tiger heron stalking through the museum and serves as a gateway to information about the undergrowth. Green kingfisher, Mangrove Yellow Warbler and natural history of the Isthmus of Panama. The building was crab-eating are common along with iridescent Blue designed by the world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The Morpho butterflies. Dinner is again onboard the Voyager and Flamenco Marina is only a few minutes away and this is where this evening we reposition to another part of the Darien. B,L,D our ship is ready and waiting for us to embark. We have dinner aboard Voyager and begin sailing overnight to the Darien. B,L,D Day 4 • Monday, February 25 PUNTO PATIÑO NATURE RESERVE, DARIÉN NATIONAL PARK Day 3 • Sunday, February 24 On the southern shore of the Gulf of San Miguel, this 65,025- PUNTA ALEGRE, DARIÉN NATIONAL PARK acre wildlife preserve is owned by the National Association Following breakfast, local boats take us from the ship to for the Conservation of Nature (ANCON), a Panamanian explore some of the mangroves and estuaries of this part non-profit conservation organization. It is the largest private of Panama’s remote Darien region. This National Park of nature reserve in Central America consisting largely of rare 1,400,000 acres is situated in the eastern part of the country, primary and secondary dry deciduous . It bordering Colombia and is the largest protected nature area contains species-rich primary and secondary forest, and is of Central America and the Caribbean. In the mangroves, one of the best places in Panama to spot Harpy Eagles. This there’s a good chance of spotting Roseate Spoonbills, Amazon morning we observe Blue-footed Boobies in a nearby rookery Kingfishers, White ibises and herons, as well as waders such as along with mangroves where birds, marine life and other Willets, Whimbrels and Spotted sandpipers. wildlife make their home. We also explore estuaries and shorelines from our small boats before lunch back on board. serve as a refuge and source of species replenishment for other islands, including the Cocos and Galapagos, during and after El Niño disturbances. Enjoy a nature walk with our naturalists to introduce you to the islands this afternoon. B,L,D

Day 6 • Wednesday, February 27 COIBA NATIONAL PARK Spend the day exploring Coiba National Park. Begin on the island of Granito de Oro. This tiny speckle in the vast ocean features a white-sand beach, a handful of coconut trees and an army of hermit crabs. Few places allow swimmers and snorkelers to walk into calm waters and into an amazing world of coral and fish life directly from the beach. You will immerse yourself in the rich tropical waters of Coiba to explore the reef and its inhabitants. Snorkel the coral reef where sightings of Snapper, Grouper, Jack, Moray eels and the benign White- tipped shark are not uncommon. Walk along Los Monos Trail. The trail includes sections of virgin primary forest where a number of bird species can be observed such as Bi-colored Hawk, White-throated Thrush, Lance-tailed Manakin, Coiba Spinetail and the endemic Brown-backed Dove among others. Later this afternoon, head toward the central station of the old penal colony where you are free to roam the installations of the

Fiery-billed Aracari once notorious prison. Abandoned cells, chapels, a cemetery, dining halls and the original 1919 main prison building still stand the test of time. In the afternoon we land at Punta Patino beach to explore trails Afterwards explore the Hot Springs Trail flanked by steep within the Punta Patino Nature Reserve. This 65,000-acre primary rain-forest on the south side and Mangrove forest on reserve is the largest private nature reserve in Central America the north side of the trail, a wide variety of flora and fauna can consisting largely of rare primary and secondary dry deciduous be found. The first 50 meters are full of Heliconia and plenty tropical forest. Present along the trails and open areas are of hummingbirds, including the Blue-throated Goldentail Orange-crowned Oriole, Yellow-crowned Euphonia, Gray- and the Scaly-breasted Hummingbird. The main attraction headed Chachalaca, Piratic Flycatcher, Baltimore Oriole, Blue here is the endemic Coiba Spinetail, more often observed here Dancis, Pale-vented Pigeon, White-tipped Dove, Blue-headed than anywhere else on the island. The endemic Brown-backed parrot, and Crowned Woodnymph among other species. Later Dove is also easily found on this beautiful trail as well as both in the afternoon, the Voyager departs the Darien and begins the Howler and White-faced Monkeys. Big Espave trees along with longest sailing period of our trip. B,L,D huge Balsa trees sporadically line the trail. Scarlet Macaws are also often heard and/or seen flying between the two primary Day 5 • Tuesday, February 26 habitats. Once at the thermal hot pools, look for soaring King SAILING THROUGH THE DAY TO ISLA DE COIBA Vultures among the many other feathered friends in the sky. We have a relaxing day as we sail across the Gulf of Panama and The pools are hot and typically not that inviting to jump in. arrive at Isla de Coiba in the afternoon. Coiba Island is one of Perhaps a soaking of the feet is something more inclined for the the last relics of tropical moist forest in Pacific Central America, hot, sweaty, adventurer. Return to the Voyager this evening for a site of great beauty, great marine and terrestrial diversity and dinner. B,L,D preserving endemic and endangered species. Walking in Coiba National Park is breathtaking and distinctive. On the main Day 7 • Thursday, February 28 island, 80% comprises “untouched” tropical rainforest. Most GOLFITO, COSTA RICA AND PIEDRAS BLANCAS NATIONAL PARK trails go through mature, secondary and of course primary Arrive in Golfito this morning and clear customs and undisturbed rain forest. It is a mature forest that is generally immigration procedures this morning and then visit La Gamba easy to walk through. The coral reefs exemplify successful Field Station. With a stunning diversity of flora and fauna, the reef growth under sheltered but very restricted conditions and gorgeous Piedras Blancas National Park is a significant natural Keel-billed toucan Coral reef Hibiscus flower

White-faced capuchin Rufescent tiger heron Golden-hooded tanager

reserve and wildlife refuge located in the Puntarenas province. northern side of the Peninsula in Costa Rica where The National Park connects with the Corcovado National Park seclusion, stunning vegetation and calm waves describe to form and safeguard an important and ecologically diverse this locale. Explore the largest protected mangrove area in biological corridor in the Golfo Dulce. Due to its climate, this Central America this morning. The Terraba-Sierpe National area is lush and verdant all year long. There are hundreds of Humid Forest Reserve mangrove forest and swamp covers rare plant, animal, and insect species found in this forest, as an 85 square mile area between the deltas of the Terraba well as a large number of amphibians and other reptiles. Some and Sierpe Rivers. This river boat trip adventures into of the more common birds and animals found here are Howler countless channels crisscrossing this vitally important Monkey, the White-nose Capuchin, , toucans and Scarlet ecosystem, which fringes 25 miles of coastline. Expect to Macaws. encounter caiman, American crocodiles, primates, river turtles and coatis. This trip is a birders delight expecting to Considered by many to be one of the best bird watching parks in see the Yellow Mangrove warbler, the Common Potoo, and the country, the Piedras Blancas National Park is an important frigatebirds to name a few. gathering point for many birds from North and South America. Today we will explore trails from Playa Nicuesa. Species Spend the night with dinner on the Voyager this evening and we hope to encounter are Violaceaous Trogon, Red-capped sail to Puerto Caldera. B,L,D Manakin, Long-tailed Hermit, Fiery-billed Aracari, Scarlet- thighed Dacnis, Green Honeycreeper and many others. Return Day 9 • Saturday, March 2 to the Voyager this evening for dinner and sail around the Oso PUERTO CALDERA / CARARA NATIONAL PARK Peninsula this evening. B,L,D We disembark this morning, say goodbye to our friends on board the Voyager and travel to Carara National Park, an 18 Day 8 • Friday, March 1 square mile Pacific coastal rainforest. Because Carara is in a DRAKE BAY / TERRABA-SIERPE RESERVE transition zone into the tropical dry forests of the northwest, it Discovered by Sir Francis Drake during his travels around is an exceptionally rich area for biodiversity and an area that the world in the 16th century, Drake Bay packs natural some would argue provides the best birding in the country. beauty that has stood the test of time. Located on the mountains have some drier habitat with different birds, and we might see Rufous-naped Wren, White-fronted Parrot,or the spectacular White-throated Magpie-Jay. Golden-browed Chlorophonia is a dazzling highland species as is the Golden- hooded Tanager.

An afternoon boat trip on the Río Tárcoles and into nearby mangroves offers the chance to see a variety of birds such as shorebirds, herons, Turquoise-browed Motmot, American Pygmy Kingfisher and even the impressive Scarlet Macaw. The Río Tárcoles, which borders the Park and flows into the Pacific Ocean, is a perfect way to witness many bird species, mammals, and other critters especially endangered American crocodiles close-up as this area is home to 2,000 of these animals, some reaching 20 feet in length.

Overnight at Villa Lapas where we have a festive farewell dinner. B,L,D

Day 11 • Monday, March 4 SAN JOSE TO USA Some great things must come to an end but not if you choose to extend your time in Costa Rica. We travel today to the airport in San Jose for flights back to the USA and home. B,L,D White-throated Magpie-Jay

The forest in Carara can be pumping throughout the day and shy birds seem easier to see here than elsewhere. The Park is home to 200 pairs of nesting Scarlet Macaws and this is our FEBRUARY 22-MARCH 4, 2019 best chance to see one of these striking birds. There are a number of specialties shared only between southwestern Costa PRICE PER PERSON Rica and nearby Panama, including Black-hooded Antshrike, Category C Fiery-billed Aracari, Beryl-crowned Hummingbird, Riverside Double Occupancy $5,799 $7,299 Wren and Orange-collared Manakin. Greater Tinamou are also Single Occupancy found here. Category B Double Occupancy $6,299 Overnight at Villa Lapas which is located very near the Carara Single Occupancy $7,899 National Park and the Rio Tárcoles mangroves. B,L,D Category B (Riveriera Deck) Double Occupancy $6,599 Single Occupancy $8,399 Day 10 • Sunday, March 3 Category A CARARA NATIONAL PARK Double Occupancy $6,899 This morning is devoted to birding in Carara National Park. Single Occupancy $8,599 Carara is considered a sanctuary for Scarlet Macaws, as well as Category P Double Occupancy $7,899 many more species of birds like Tiger Herons, Egrets, Sand- Single Occupancy $9,999 pipers, Stilts, Tanagers, Honeycreepers, Trogons, Toucans and Owner’s Suite much more. Also found in this 13,000 acre National Park are Double Occupancy $8,899 collared peccaries, agouti, kinkajous, anteaters, White-faced Single Occupancy $17,798 Capuchin Monkeys, Mantled Howler Monkeys, Hoffmann’s Port Tax $450 Two-toed and Brown-throated Three-toed Sloths. We start our morning birding on trails to look for Black-faced Limited cabins available with no single supplement fee. Antthrush, White-whiskered Puffbird, Chestnut-backed Call for details. Antbird, and other shy species. The lower Pacific slope Carara National Park

Tamandua YOUR EXPEDITION YACHT Voyager

Outdoor lounge Main lounge Dining room

The exclusively chartered, intimate MY Variety Voyager is a sleek yacht launched in 2012. Guests are accommodated in 36 stylishly appointed, ocean-view cabins. Meals featuring international cuisine are served alfresco or in single, unassigned seatings in the ship’s inviting dining room, where passengers can enjoy unobstructed views of the passing scenery and coastline through floor-to-ceiling windows. Located on the Ocean’s Deck, the open Bar and Lounge offers stylish shaded seating and is the ideal spot for reading, relaxing or stargazing. Other public areas include a library, shaded outdoor dining area, sun deck, and a mini-spa and fitness area. Sun deck bar Category C cabin

Category B cabin

Category A cabin CATEGORY C Twin or double bed cabin located on the Marina Deck offering oversized twin port holes, bathrooms with marble floors as well as glass and Corian showers. CATEGORY B Twin or double bed cabin located on the Marina Deck offering oversized twin port holes, bathroom with marble floors as well as glass and Corian showers. CATEGORY B - RIVERIERA DECK Twin or double bed cabin located on the Riveriera Deck offering double windows, bathroom with marble floors as well as glass and Corian showers. CATEGORY A Category P cabin Twin or double bed cabin located on the Riviera Deck offering double windows, bathroom with marble floors as well as glass and Corian showers. CATEGORY P Twin or double bed cabin located on the upper Horizons Deck offering double windows, all finished with marble throughout the bathrooms and more luxurious fabrics and special amenities. OWNER’S SUITE Located on the Horizons Deck, this double-bedded cabin is the finest on board with two double windows, a seating area and luxurious private bathroom. Double or twin bed plus a sofa bed. Owner’s Sui FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION CONTACT:

Massachusetts Audubon Society Karen O’Neill 208 South Great Road Lincoln, Massachusetts 01773

(800) 289-9504 or (781) 259-2166 [email protected]