Best of Panama Explorer Tour Detail Page

Welcome to Panama City, the vibrant capital of Panama! Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport (PTY), a representative will meet you and assist with your transfer to your hotel, such as Barceló Panamá or similar accommodation. After checking in, spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the modern skyline, historic districts, and local cuisine on your own. Stroll along the Cinta Costera, visit the famous Fish Market (Mercado de Mariscos), or simply relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable journey through the Panama Canal, one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels. Check-in at Flamenco Marina, where you'll board the MV Pacific Queen and travel by bus to Gamboa, the starting point of your canal transit. Over the course of 5 to 6 hours, cruise through the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks, witnessing massive cargo ships navigating this historic waterway. Along the way, enjoy a buffet-style lunch, unlimited soft drinks, and insightful commentary from an expert bilingual guide. Disembark back at Flamenco Marina and return to your hotel for a relaxing evening in Panama City.

This morning, transfer from your hotel to Albrook Airport for a short 1-hour flight to Bocas del Toro, a stunning Caribbean archipelago. Upon arrival at Isla Colón, take a scenic boat ride to Bastimentos Island, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. Spend the afternoon unwinding in a tropical paradise, exploring the white-sand beaches, snorkeling, or indulging in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

Start your Bocas del Toro adventure with a boat tour to Dolphin Bay, where playful dolphins leap in the turquoise waters. Next, snorkel at Coral Cay, home to vibrant marine life and crystal-clear reefs. Savor a fresh seafood lunch at an overwater restaurant before heading to Red Frog Beach for sunbathing and jungle hikes. In the afternoon, explore Starfish Beach, where golden sands meet calm, shallow waters filled with colorful starfish. Wrap up the day with a breathtaking sunset at Bibi’s on the Beach, enjoying a tropical cocktail with your toes in the sand. Pure Caribbean paradise!

After breakfast, transfer back to Bocas del Toro Airport for your return flight to Panama City. Upon arrival, embark on a full-day city tour, exploring the ruins of Old Panama (Panamá Viejo), the Old Quarter (Casco Viejo), and its colonial-era cathedrals, plazas, and museums. Learn about Panama’s Spanish and French influences, including the failed French attempt at building the canal, and admire architectural gems such as San José Church and the Palacio de las Garzas. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Biodiversity Museum (Biomuseo), a striking masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. This interactive museum highlights the incredible role that Panama played in connecting North and South America, shaping the region’s biodiversity. After a day filled with history and culture, return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Start your morning with an exciting hiking and wildlife boat tour in Soberanía National Park, one of Central America’s most biodiverse rainforests. Travel 45 minutes to Gamboa, where the Chagres River meets the Panama Canal. Board a boat and cruise through Gatun Lake, spotting massive cargo ships, crocodiles, green iguanas, and tropical birds. Navigate through islands inhabited by howler monkeys, capuchins, spider monkeys, and Geoffrey’s Tamarins. After the boat tour, continue with a guided jungle hike through the lush trails of Soberanía National Park, home to exotic plants, vibrant bird species, and stunning flora. This immersive experience includes private transportation, entrance fees, snacks, and an expert naturalist guide. Return to your hotel in the afternoon for a well-deserved rest before your final evening in Panama City.