A land carved by rivers, spiked with peaks and draped in a thousand shades of green—this is Central America and Colombia as few will ever see them. This is Central America as few see it. In this pristine region where tropical wilderness reigns, discover staggering biodiversity amid rainforests, rivers and oceans, experiencing it all alongside a veteran expedition team. Hike through Costa Rica's Corcovado National Park, snorkel among vibrant sea life in Colombia’s pristine waters or Zodiac cruise to the remote communities of Panama’s Guna Yala archipelago. You’ll travel between each fascinating place aboard the nimble National Geographic Quest, designed to take you deep into the wild heart of the Americas.
I love how National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions consistently delivers immersive, expert-led experiences aboard their small and nimble ships—voyages that are ideal for all types of explorers, from families and couples to independent travelers. While they offer five itineraries in Central America and Colombia aboard National Geographic Quest (see all Central America expeditions), these three voyages stand out.
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Hidden Worlds of Central America and Colombia
Sail into the wild heart of this captivating region
“The Panama Canal, which effectively connects more than 144 shipping routes, 1,700 ports, and 160 countries, is much more than its transit locks. It is miles of wild landscape, rich with intrigue and an astonishing biodiversity of wildlife.”
-Sven Lindblad
Recommended Expeditions
FEATURED EXPEDITION #1
The Panama Canal, Pearl Islands and Darién Jungle
Explore an alternative Panama Canal itinerary, which includes hiking Costa Rica's Arenal Volcano.
Transiting the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is a technological wonder that changed the world economy when it opened in August 1914. Transiting this historic waterway is a highlight of our voyage to Costa Rica and Panama. Normally, ships take 8–10 hours to transit the Isthmus of Panama. But with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, you'll experience the canal over two days, allowing you to witness its inner workings by day and to see it brilliantly lit up at night.
FEATURED EXPEDITION #2
Exploring Costa Rica: Guanacaste, Santa Rosa and Rincón de la Vieja
Explore an alternative Costa Rica itinerary, which includes the Panama Canal.
Exploring Pristine Guanacaste
In the province of Guanacaste lies one of Costa Rica’s rarest ecosystems: the tropical dry forest, which doesn't see rain for six months of the year. The leaves fall from the trees before the travel season, allowing for ideal wildlife-viewing conditions during hikes on shore. Off shore, the undersea realm thrives thanks to the country's robust conservation efforts.
FEATURED EXPEDITION #3
Panama and Colombia: Exploring the Caribbean Coast
Creating Connections | Colombia and Panama
National Geographic Photographer Jennifer Davidson honed her craft while traveling solo and forging genuine connections with new people and places through her images. “I started to photograph those experiences and it opened the whole world for me,” says Jennifer, noting how welcoming residents are when she asks to collaborate on a photograph with them. Join her in Central America.
Expedition Highlights
What sets these expeditions apart?
Small-Ship Camaraderie
With just 100 guests aboard, you'll enjoy a welcoming, inclusive environment. Open seating at meals and flexible excursion groups create opportunities for meaningful connection.
Immersive Activities
Hike rainforest trails, snorkel coral reefs or kayak through mangroves. Each day offers hands-on exploration in small groups.
Cultural Engagement
Interactions with Indigenous communities, local artisans and musicians enrich the journey with authenticity and depth.
Expert Guidance
Expert naturalists, photo instructors and field experts offer enriching insights and storytelling throughout the voyage.
Travel with local naturalists and National Geographic photo pros
Meet with Indigenous groups who share their life stories.
Wildlife encounters with monkeys, scarlet macaws, toucans, sloths, rays, sea turtles and more
Sail Aboard the Nimble National Geographic Quest
National Geographic Quest
Purpose-built for the hidden coves and jungle rivers of Central America.
Modern and clean-lined, with large expanses of glass to take in the extraordinary views, National Geographic Quest enables guests to see, do and experience the best of her geographies.
Discover Central America
Contact me to explore possibilities.
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