In Panama, there is only one name in tours, and it's Ancon Expeditions of Panama (tel: 269 9415; website: www.anconexpeditions.com). Created by Ancon, the country's largest private conservation organisation, the company offers the winning formula of professionalism, natural expertise and a commitment to preserving the natural heritage of Panama.

Ancon offers custom-tailored trips in the capital, the Canal Zone and to the farthest flung corners of the country. If you're an avid birder, one particularly popular tour is a guided birding trip to the famous Pipeline Road in nearby Parque Nacional Soberanía. However, it is recommended that you book your trip in advance as all of Ancon's offerings are extremely popular and do fill up quickly.