Panama tour, Essential Panama

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION:

Our unwavering commitment to creating holidays with a positive impact is exemplified through our innovative approach to responsible tourism. At the forefront of this endeavour is our ground breaking carbon scoring system, a world-first initiative that allows us to meticulously evaluate the environmental footprint of each tailor-made trip we curate. To ensure a comprehensive understanding, we actively engage with our suppliers, urging them to participate in our carbon-scoring survey. This collaborative effort not only provides us with valuable insights into their unique carbon scores but also empowers them to identify areas of excellence in sustainability and opportunities for improvement. Extending this transparency to our customers, we go the extra mile by individually assessing each trip. This enables us to furnish you with a personalised carbon score for your tailor-made holiday, allowing you to make informed choices that align with your values.

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond scoring systems to the very fabric of your travel experience. This journey is curated to include activities and accommodations with minimal environmental impact. Expect immersive walking tours instead of vehicular excursions, and cosy stays in small, local hotels rather than grand chain establishments. Moreover, our dedication to mindful dining shines through with our offering of delicious vegetarian and vegan food options, ensuring that your culinary experiences are not only delightful but also aligned with responsible and conscious travel practices. Take for example in Casco Viejo, Panama City where the top rated Vegan Shack is on your doorstep.

Embrace a holiday that not only meets but exceeds your expectations, leaving a positive imprint on the planet.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE:

The essence of this trip through Panama lies in offering you an immersive education about the country's extraordinary biodiversity. From the enchanting depths of lush rainforests and captivating cloud forests to the vibrant marine life that graces its shores, this adventure is a celebration of Panama's ecological wonders.

Prior to your departure, we ensure that you are well-equipped and informed through our pre-travel online 'travel pack.' This comprehensive resource serves as your guide, delivering all the essential details about your upcoming trip. Within this pack, you'll find valuable insights into the diverse destinations you'll be exploring. Importantly, it includes practical guidelines on what to pack, designed to encourage a mindful approach and minimise the amount of luggage carried.

By offering these guidelines, we aim not only to enhance your travel experience but also to contribute to environmental sustainability. The conscious decision to pack efficiently plays a crucial role in reducing the overall weight of luggage, consequently leading to lower fuel consumption on planes and other vehicles. Through these thoughtful measures, we aspire to weave together an educational and eco-conscious journey that leaves a positive impact on both your understanding of Panama's biodiversity and the well-being of the planet.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY:

We believe in creating travel experiences that not only captivate our customers but also actively contribute to the well-being of the regions they explore. To achieve this, our partners prioritise the engagement of local guides, individuals deeply connected to the land, wildlife, and environment.

These knowledgeable guides go beyond showcasing the beauty of the destinations; they offer a window into the intricate ecological balance that defines each region. Importantly, by employing local guides, we play a direct role in fostering local job opportunities, empowering individuals within the communities we touch.

Our commitment extends to the accommodations chosen for our trips, where the emphasis is placed on hiring local employees. This deliberate choice serves to support and strengthen communities while simultaneously contributing to the local economy.

At Finca Lerida in Boquete the coffee plantation is on-site with a local workforce meaning this contributes directly to the local economy. Hotel Playa Tortuga has a full activity schedule, all hosted by guides who are local to the archipelago.

By sourcing food products locally especially in the fertile lands of Boquete, we not only provide a genuine taste of the region but also minimise environmental impact by reducing the distance travelled by goods.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY:

Partake in a local coffee tour at Finca Lerida, an immersive experience that unveils the intricate processes behind this thriving industry. Beyond the aromatic allure of freshly brewed coffee, this excursion provides a profound insight into the lives of those who cultivate and harvest these beans, enabling them to secure incomes that may otherwise be elusive. More than just a tour, this experience is a glimpse into the lives of the local communities around the Chiquiri Highlands whose livelihoods are intricately woven into the fabric of the coffee industry.

Hotels throughout the trip implement policies that foster a welcoming environment for employees of various backgrounds to promote inclusivity and diversity. Where possible, we aim to work with smaller, locally owned establishments.