28 March

Panama: Darién Jungle

The Darién Gap is the only break in the Pan-American Highway that runs from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, a wild and untamed region of thick jungle. Although the region has a reputation for lawlessness, tourism is making inroads thanks to the jungle’s staggering biodiversity and the fascinating culture of the indigenous Emberá people.

29 March

Panama: Pearl Islands

The Pearl Islands archipelago is made up of more than 200 islands and islets off Panama’s Pacific coast, most of which are uninhabited and rich in bird and marine life. It’s a great place to go snorkelling or scuba diving, and whale watching tours operate between July and October.

30 March

Panama: Isla Iguana

31 March

Panama: Isla de Coiba

Isla de Coiba is a former penal colony and was off-limits for many years, so around 80% of the island is still pristine rainforest. Turtles nest on the white sand beaches between April and October, and the densely forested interior is home to an incredible array of wildlife.

1 April to 2 April

Costa Rica: Golfo Dulce

Seldom visited by tourists, the lush and humid Golfo Dulce is home to Piedras Blanca National Park, an area of pristine rainforest teeming with wildlife. Amongst the mangroves that line the coast lurk crocodiles and river otters, while the canopy above is home to nimble monkeys and colourful toucans.

3 April - At sea

4 April

Costa Rica: Osa Conservation Area

5 April

Costa Rica: Curú Reserve

The Curú Wildlife Refuge is situated on Costa Rica’s lush Nicoya Peninsula, thick with primary forest and fringed by tiny coves and beaches. It’s a real haven for wildlife, where you might spy ocelots, anteaters or capuchin monkeys rustling about in the foliage.

5 April

Costa Rica: Tortuga Island

Tortuga Island is actually made up of two separate islands just off the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, both uninhabited and both absolutely stunning. Enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the clear, coral-rich waters, or relax on pristine white sand beaches.

6 April

Costa Rica: Parque Nacional Rincón De La Vieja

6 April

Costa Rica: Hacienda Guachipelin

7 April

Costa Rica: Santa Rosa National Park

8 April

Costa Rica: Puerto Caldera

Puerto Caldera is a major port on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, about an hour and a half from the capital, San José. Nearby attractions include the beach town of Puntarenas, the fantastic wildlife of the Carara Biological Reserve and Tortuga Island, a beautiful spot for snorkelling.

8 April

Arriving in San Jose