The area of Darien, Panama is one of the most biodiverse areas of the country. Pristine forest, roaring waterfalls, forest streams, and thriving ecosystems are just some of the features that make Darien such a special place for humans and wildlife alike. The indigenous Embera-Wounaan have made Darien their home for centuries, living alongside jaguars, night monkeys, tapirs, giant anteaters, and of course, the majestic Harpy Eagle.
During our Harpy Eagle tour, as we venture into this wild landscape, we will come prepared for an adventure. Riding in dug-out canoes, hiking muddy forest trails, and crossing rivers will all be part of our experience on this trip. The intrepid will be rewarded with amazing views, colorful birds, and memories to last a lifetime.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
To kick off our Harpy Eagle tour, you will make a short transfer from Tocumen International Airport (PTY), in Panama City to your hotel. There will be time to check in and relax before a short orientation and our first dinner together.
DAY 2: NUSAGANDI
After an early breakfast, we will leave our hotel and begin our journey towards Darien, one of the most biodiverse areas of Panama. Our first stop will be in the area of Nusagandi, a protected area of the Guna Yala indigenous people. This forest in the continental divide shields several important birds such as the rare Sapayoa and Spiny-faced Antshrike, as well as the Slate-throated Gnatcatcher, Black-crowned Antpitta, and Black-and-yellow Tanager.
Pair of Harpy Eagles in Panama
DAY 3: SAN FRANCISCO FOREST RESERVE
Today we will drive to the San Francisco Forest Reserve, a protected lowland forest and watershed. This is a great spot to search the skies for soaring raptors. With the addition of riparian habitats and agricultural fields, a diverse collection of birds can be found here, such as the endemic Yellow-green Tyrannulet, Orange-crowned Oriole, Great Jacamar, White-fronted Nunbird, Blue Ground Dove, and Spot-crowned Barbet, to mention a few. In the afternoon, we will continue east, heading to Meteti.
DAY 4: HARPY EAGLE NEST
This morning we will enter into the realm of the Harpy Eagle. We will get an early start and today’s journey will include driving approximately one hour, riding in a dug-out canoe across the Chucunaque River, then hike to the Harpy Eagle nest. Please keep in mind that even though the nest will be active, we cannot guarantee that the eagles will be in sight. During our hike, several other birds can be observed including Gray-cheeked Nunlet, Yellow-breasted Flycatcher, Black Oropendola, and White-headed Wren, among others. After our time at the nest, we will return to our hotel, birding in strategic spots along the way, as time allows.
Sapayoa
DAY 5: NUEVO VIGIA
Darien is the land of several indigenous communities. The Embera people are among them. Today, we will visit one of their villages, Nuevo Vigia. This community is surrounded by excellent bird habitat. Along the shaded trails, we will look for Red-billed Scythebill, Agami Heron, Bare-crowned Antbird, OIivaceous Piculet, and Little Cuckoo. Also, in the open areas, we hope to see the very range-restricted Dusky-backed Jacamar, Barred Puffbird, and Spectacled Parrotlet.
DAY 6: DARIEN TO PANAMA CITY
Before making our way back to Panama, we will explore another area around Meteti to get a few more of the Darien specialties. We will hope to find Golden-green Woodpecker, Chestnut-fronted Macaw, Blue Cotinga, and Double-banded Graytail.
DAY 7: DEPARTURE
After breakfast, transfer to the Tocumen International Airport for your flight home.
Our Harpy Eagle tour concludes in Panama City.
