R A I N F O R E S T A N I M A L S
O F P A N A M A
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A new nature photo holiday in Panama - eagles, vultures and woodland birds during the green season
T R I P O V E R V I E W
Birdcalls awaken you. Inches from your bedroom window, the cloud forest canopy is riotous with early morning birdlife. Hummingbirds and tanagers flit among flowers, toucans and aracaris flap back and forth, and monkeys clamber through the trees.
The Canopy Tower offers one of the best wildlife photography opportunities that Panama has to offer, and a place that you have to experience at least one in your life. Because the birds and mammals are at eye level, we can get fantastic views that would otherwise be near impossible from the ground, making this a prime spot for experiencing the rainforest. An impressive renovated radar tower situated in the Soberania National Park, 35 miles north of Panama City, it lies at the centre of the New World and the bird migration routes between North and South America. A spectacular 970+ species of bird have been recorded in this small area, not to mention the incredible variety of other wildlife to be seen such as sloths, howler monkeys and glass frogs.
We'll also stay at the excellent Canopy Lodge in El Valle, exploring the streams, waterfalls and forest paths for a dazzling array of birds, mammals, frogs and butterflies. The feeding stations will allow us to do more controlled photo set-ups.
H I G H L I G H T S
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3 nights' stay at the award-winning Canopy Tower, overlooking the rainforest canopy, just a short drive from Panama City; and 4 nights' stay at the Canopy Lodge in El Valle National Park
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Exclusive access to the lodges' observation decks, bird-feeding stations and trails
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Photograph and observe a gaudy variety of birds, including hummingbirds, tanagers, parrots, toucans, aracaris, motmots and woodcreepers
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Encounter mammals everywhere you look such as Geoffroy’s Tamarins, Hoffmann’s Two-toed Sloths, Silky Anteater, Rothschild's Porcupine, Coati, Woolly Opossum...
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Push your photo skills with flight, portrait, close-up and sunrise/sunset photography sessions, and with bird-feeder station set-ups
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Expert guiding and 1-on-1 tuition from award-winning photographer and local guides
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Bird photography from eye-level observation deck and feeding stations
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Boat trip for capybara and water birds
C A N O P Y T O W E R
Rooms are single occupancy, each offering a spectacular view of the rainforest from the window - so you can indulge in birdwatching and photography at canopy level from the comfort of your room!
Each room is provided with a desk, large window, overhead fan, wardrobe space, bedside table, and a private bathroom. Larger rooms are available on request.
C A N O P Y L O D G E
Each room is single occupancy, with a double bed and private bathroom. Each room offers calming views through large windows of the gardens and nearby Guayabo River - a truly serene natural setting.
Provided with ceiling fan, desk, towel warmer, and amply storage space. Larger rooms are available on request.
P R A C T I C A L I N F O R M A T I O N
Meals
All meals are included at the Canopy Tower and Canopy Lodge. The lodges offer family-style dining with a delightful blend of Panamanian and American fare, with hearty protein options including vegetables, salads and local specialities. Catering for vegan and vegetarian diets too, with tofu and soy products available, so they are able accommodate any dietary needs, restrictions or allergies.
Walking
We consider this moderate walking, as we will be walking along flat rainforest trails in low humidity conditions. Please contact me beforehand to discuss suitability and if you have any mobility issues.
Group Size & Tuition
With a maximum of 5 participants, our small group size ensures everyone has a better personal experience. I will be on hand to answer your questions and help you with observing animals whatever your skillset.
Photo Gear
We recommend that you bring a DSLR with a zoom lens in the 100-500mm range, which is sufficient for flight shots and portraits of birds in low light. 400mm is a good all-round lens for these hides. An extender of 1.4x or 1.2x on a 300mm lens can give you extra reach if desired. A tripod is highly recommended to allow for well-exposed shots of animals in the canopy, or for flight shots. A wide-angle lens or GoPro can be used with permission at bird feeding stations. A macro lens is recommended for close-up subjects such as frogs, butterflies and leafcutter ants.
Clothing
It is important that participants wear appropriate clothing for the rainforest environment, such as loose-fitting clothing. Please check the recommended kit list, sent upon sign-up. Participants will be advised nearer the time on the current forecasts.
Weather
Ranging from 20C to 25C, dry with some possibility of rain.
Flights
We recommend flying to Tocumen International Airport Panama. Please discuss with me so that I can recommend the best flight for you to take.
W H A T ' S I N C L U D E D
Included
✓ Services of professional photography guide Paul Alistair Collins, as well as local nature and photography guides
✓ Private access and permits to the lodges and national parks
✓ Evening image reviews and edit sessions (optional)
✓ A welcome presentation on the local fauna and sites
✓ 3 nights' accommodation at Canopy Tower
✓ 4 nights' accommodation at Canopy Lodge
✓ All meals, taken at the accommodation
✓ Airport pick-up and drop-off from Panama Tocumen International Airport
✓ Ground transportation
✓ Any boat trips
Not Included
✗ Flights
(please contact me so that I can recommend the best
flights)
✗ Any Visa charges or airport taxes
✗ Personal and cancellation insurance*
✗ Personal snacks and beverages
✗ Tipping - a rule of thumb is between $5 and $10 per day for lodge staff, among whom tips are divided equally.
✗ Personal expenses
✗ Laundry
✗ Any additional overnight stays or packages
For full terms and conditions, including our cancellation policy and personal travel insurance, please click to see the Terms & Conditions
* To take part in our trip, you must be covered by adequate insurance for its entire duration. The insurance must cover for cancellation, medical and emergency expenses. We recommend insurance against damage or loss of baggage, camera equipment, instruments and personal items.
Once your booking has been confirmed, a £500 deposit will be required per person to secure your place.