Highlights
- Witness the world-famous Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks
- Spot jungle wildlife from a traditional canoe on the Río Chagres
- Swim among mangroves and reefs off the coast of the pristine Isla Padre
- Savor the flavors of the Panamanian Caribbean in Colón
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Panama City, Casco Antiguo Walking Tour & Miraflores Locks | Panama City |
| Day 2 | Nature & Indigenous Culture Tour on the Río Chagres | Panama City |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Portobelo & the Caribbean Coast | Portobelo |
| Day 4 | Portobelo Historic Walk & Dance Performance, Culinary Experience in Colón | Portobelo |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Panama City, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Panama City, Casco Antiguo Walking Tour & Miraflores Locks
Welcome to Panama! You'll arrive at Tocumen International Airport, where you'll meet your driver before being transported to your hotel in Panama City. Panama's iconic capital and commercial center is like nowhere else in Central America, where big business and giant skyscrapers meet cobbled colonial streets and a mix of cultures formed by centuries of immigration and trade.
Make the most of your brief time in the capital with a visit to Casco Antiguo, the historic district. Enjoy a walking tour steeped in fascinating history and local gastronomy, where you'll experience key highlights like geisha coffee, handmade Panamanian chocolate, and the popular raspao (Panamanian shaved ice). Browse local markets, interact with locals, and wrap up the day by savoring a delectable ceviche.
Or, embark on a journey to the world-renowned Panama Canal, where you'll witness the massive ships as they transit through the impressive Miraflores Locks and gain insight into the captivating history of its construction. This engineering marvel, over a century old, also has a nearby museum outlining the colossal challenges faced during its creation and its transformative impact on global trade.
Day 2: Nature & Indigenous Culture Tour on the Río Chagres
Day 3: Transfer to Portobelo & the Caribbean Coast
Today, you'll be transferred to the laid-back Caribbean fishing village of Portobelo, formerly the most important Spanish port in Central America. Once lined with fortresses, the coastline processed incredible amounts of South American gold and Asian treasure. Several of these UNESCO-listed colonial fortresses still stand in the village, but nowadays, you'll mostly find a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.
Once you arrive and check into your hotel, go forth and explore the Panamanian Caribbean. Several nearby beaches and islands can be reached via boat, including Isla Padre, popularly known as "Venas Azules." Swim in the crystal-clear water surrounded by reefs and mangroves before continuing on to Playa Huerta for a traditional Caribbean lunch in the small fishing village of José Pobre.
Day 4: Portobelo Historic Walk & Dance Performance, Culinary Experience in Colón
Today you'll take a peek into Portobelo's fascinating past, filled with stories of pirates and Spanish conquistadors. You'll tour the most important sites of the village with a knowledgeable local guide, including the colonial fortresses, The Plaza, and the Black Christ Church. You'll also witness a traditional dance performance, combining three of the most famous dances of the area, at one of the fortresses.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 5: Transfer to Panama City, Depart
Your Panamanian adventure draws to a close today. Depending on your departure time, you could head to the San Lorenzo Protected Area near Portobelo for a guided hike in the tropical forest or visit the San Lorenzo Fortress, a Spanish relic dating back to 1595, originally built to protect the Río Chagres from pirates. When you're ready, meet your driver for a transfer back to Panama City.
If you return to the capital with enough time, tour the streets to find some of the best cuisine. Begin in the Santa Ana neighborhood at the historic Coca-Cola Café, enjoy popular Chinese snacks in the old Chinatown, tour the San Felip Neri Food Market for fresh seasonal products, and sample ceviche and Balboa (Panama's national beer) at the Seafood Market. When it's time to leave, you'll be transferred to Tocumen International Airport with plenty of time to catch your flight. Safe travels!
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Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Panama? Check out these other Panama itineraries, explore different ways to spend five days in Panama, or discover the best time to visit Panama.
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