Panama's Parks and Beaches

Arrive in Panama City and rest up after your travels. You can opt to stretch your legs and explore your surroundings. If arriving early in the morning, let your trip planner know and we can assist with arranging a city tour today.

This morning, your canal transit experience starts at Flamenco Marina. You will embark and set sail along the Pacific Coast towards the entrance of the famed Panama Canal. Admire the Bay of Panama and Panama City’s splendorous skyline from the water before passing under the Bridge of the Americas and into the the Miraflores Locks. Next, the boat will continue into the Pedro Miguel Locks, the second set of locks on the Pacific side. Upon exiting the Pedro Miguel Locks, take in views of the new Centennial Bridge crossing over the Canal, before entering the North end of the Gaillard Cut where the Chagres River flows into the Canal. The Gaillard Cut (formerly named the Culebra Cut because its curves resemble a snake) was carved through the Continental Divide and is known for being the most challenging section of the canal  to cut, due to it's unstable geological composition and tendency to produce landslides during construction. Learn about the tumultuous history of building and completing this section of canal, as well as the dredging that is still required to maintain the cut today. You will disembark your transit at the Gamboa Dredging Division where you will board private transportation for a 45 minute ride back to your hotel.

This afternoon you will have a two hour transfer, to your next stop in the mountains, Elle Valle de Anton. After a busy day, relax and rest up for your next adventure tomorrow. 

**Alternatively, if you would prefer a guided city tour of Panama City, we can swap this out with this morning's partial canal transit. Let your trip planner know in advance. 

Today, visit a native handicraft shop situated in the mountain community of El Aguila, specializing in natural fibers and woodworking, gaining insight into the local crafts constructed in the region and how the materials are sourced. Subsequently, continue on into the community of Pozo Azul to stretch your legs a bit. Here, exploration of a series of cooling pools and waterfalls provides an opportunity to swim and immerse yourself in pristine nature. Following your refreshing swim stop, a journey to the community of Chiguirí Arriba presents a chance to explore a local farm with a magnificent waterfall and enjoy lunch at an on-site restaurant, sample local flavors. Be sure to come prepared for swimming and bring a change of clothes with you.

On the return journey, drive back to El Valle de Anton on an adventurous a 4x4 road to complete the loop through the mountains that you have traveled today!

Featuring four distinct cable styles, this morning's activity takes you soaring through the breathtaking cloud forest-covered hills of El Valle de Anton. You will start with a safety briefing and your guide will assist with assembling your equipment before heading out on a 30 minute uphill forest path towards the first canopy platform. As you glide through the treetops, you'll have wildlife spotting opportunities and magnificent views of Chorro El Macho, the largest waterfall in the El Valle region. Experience the heart-pounding excitement of crossing over this stunning waterfall not once, but twice during your descent! 

After your thrilling descents have come to an end, you will be transported back to Panama City this afternoon. 
 

Today, it is time to escape the city and head to the coast!  You will be transferred to Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” Airport for your flight to Bocas del Toro. Once landed, your driver will be waiting at the airstrip to take you to your tropical hotel stay for the next few nights. This afternoon, relax and settle into the Caribbean ambiance and slower pace of life on the islands. 

Experience the wonders of the Caribbean and prepare for an unforgettable day trip to witness dolphins in their natural habitat, explore the beauty of mangroves, observe sloths moving slowly or hanging from tree branches, and enjoy the pristine white sand beaches with crystal-clear waters of the Zapatilla Cays. Take advantage of the pristine waters of the National Marine Park and snorkel among the golden sand and coral reef teeming with life. Along the way, as your guide about the legends of pirate treasure buried among the islands.

Today is a free day to spend as you please among the islands.  Enjoy the various activities that Bocas del Toro has to offer. Explore one of the many beautiful beaches, such as Starfish Beach (be sure to only look and not touch the starfish!). Venture through Bocas Town and brows the handicraft and artisan markets, enjoy bird spotting and trying local flavors on Isla Bastimento or take a water taxi over to Isa Carenero to walk the island path that passes multiple beaches along the way. 

If you would like to plan something in advance, let our trip planners know, otherwise, this day is yours to relax and enjoy as you wish.

Today, either in the early morning or the afternoon (flight schedule dependent), you will be transferred to the Bocas del Toro Airstrip for your flight back to Panama City. Your driver will be waiting for you at Albrook Airport to transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free to do any final souvenir shopping in Panama City and prepare for your return flight home tomorrow. 

Make your way to the airport for your international flight home.