Taste of Panama

Upon arrival into Panama City, Panama transfer to the Central Hotel for overnight. Central Hotel is located in the charming historic district of Casco Viejo. Panamanian-style decor with rooms overlooking the streets of Old Town or the Plaza de la Independencia and cathedral create an ambiance combining modern comfort and colonial-era glamour.

In the morning your guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you up north towards Lake Alajuela. There you will step into small boats, which will carry you up the Rio Chagres. A fascinating and dense jungle will accompany you on your boat trip. Upriver, you will step out and enjoy a short hike (can be a bit muddy) to a beautiful waterfall in midst of the rain forest. Enjoy this tropical paradise far away from any civilization, take a swim in the refreshing pool just beneath the waterfall and submerge in this true tropical getaway. Now you are ready to visit the village of the Embera Indians, one of seven indigenous tribes in Panama. The people of the Embera tribe will welcome you at the pier and gladly give you an idea on how they still live today. The villages chief will give you a brief introduction to the history of the tribe, its traditions, cultures, believes and handicrafts. Then, a traditional lunch of fish and plantains prepared by the Embera women will be served to you. In the afternoon you will experience a traditional Embera dance and have the opportunity to shop for handicrafts. The sale of local products directly benefits the village and helps to pay the school fees for the children. Overnight The Bristol.

This morning you will be met and transferred to the domestic airport in Panama City for a short flight to David. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred 45 minutes to Boquete in the Chiriqui Highlands for overnight at the Panamonte Inn & Spa. Famous for gracious hospitality, charm and exquisite cuisine, the Panamonte is the true definition of a country inn. It is a warm and friendly place for travelers seeking a pleasurable ambiance and personalized attention. Located at the foot of Barú Volcano, the Panamonte is the perfect base for exploring the Chiriquí Highlands. Panamonte features stunning gardens, attracting butterflies and birds.


In the afternoon, visit a Panama coffee plantation. Many of Panama's premium coffee plantations are focused around Boquete because of its high altitude and rich volcanic soil. Discover the cultivation and process of coffee production. Finally, taste and enjoy!

This moderate hike offers the chance to see rare birds and ancient vegetation. The trail starts at the Falling Waters Nature Reserve retracing the steps of Pre-Columbian Indians into the cloud forests surrounding Baru Volcano National Park. The park is home to 5 of the most ancient trees in Panama, like the enormous Quercus Trees that survived a volcano eruption 800 years ago. Walk along the trail parallel to the beautiful Quebrada La Mina creek in search of rare cloud forest birds like the Resplendant Quetzal, and mammals like the white faced capuchin monkey and two-toed sloth. Overnight Panamonte Inn.

This morning transfer about 4 and ½ hours to the Caribbean Coast near Almirante where you will be met for a boat transfer to Isla Bastimentos in the Bocas del Toro islands. Arrive at the Tranquilo Bay Eco Adventure Lodge for overnight. Tranquilo Bay is an owner-operated eco-adventure lodge tucked into the rainforest on a secluded island, adjacent to a marine national park. With over a kilometer of coastline, the coral gardens at Tranquilo Bay team with tropical fish, and the over 100 acres of land contain countless wildlife. Each of the cabanas is tastefully decorated with hand-made furnishings created by local artists.

Each free day pick from the following guided activities: jungle hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, bird watching, beach trips to deserted islands, fishing (as part of another excursion) and surfing. Overnight Tranquilo Bay Eco Adventure Lodge.

Tranquilo Bay is centrally located amongst the most biologically diverse and protected areas in Panama and Central America. Expeditions into the nearby parks can be tailored to areas of interest and physical abilities. Overnight Tranquilo Bay Eco Adventure Lodge.

Morning boat transfer to the domestic airport in Bocas del Toro for a short flight back to Panama City.

Upon arrival, take the Panama City & Canal Tour (half day): Your English speaking guide will pick you up and take you on a private tour to Panama City and the Miraflores Locks. After the 30 minute drive to the Miraflores Locks, you'll be able to see the ships being lifted or lowered. From a sheltered terrace, you'll have a great view while your guide explains. Next up is the Museum and Visitor Center, where you'll learn about the construction of the canal, its impacts on world trade, and the current expansion project. Continue with your guide to the Amador Causeway, a road that connects three islands in the Pacific Ocean. The view is incomparable, with Panama City's skyline on one side and the Canal on the other. The tour continues to the Casco Viejo, Panama City’s colonial quarter. Enjoy being sent back in time among the colonial houses, narrow roads, and looming churches. This tour is a great chance to explore the history of Panama. Afterwards you will be dropped off at the Central Hotel for overnight.

Transfer to the international airport in Panama City for departure.