Highlights
- Explore Panama City's historic center and iconic canal
- Sail between the idyllic islands of the San Blas archipelago
- Snorkel above a shipwreck and among vibrant coral reefs
- Immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Indigenous Guna people
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Panama City, Cultural Experience Dinner | Panama City |
| Day 2 | Transfer to the San Blas Islands, Sail to Isla Diablo | San Blas Islands |
| Day 3 | Sail to Isla Perro Chico, Snorkel at Barco Hundido | San Blas Islands |
| Day 4 | Sail to Isla Waili, More Swimming & Snorkeling | San Blas Islands |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Panama City, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Panama City, Cultural Experience Dinner
Welcome to Panama! You'll arrive at Tocumen International Airport, where your driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Panama City. Panama's capital is an intriguing mix of modern towers, colonial history, accessible nature, and a cosmopolitan feel.
To make the most of your time, opt for a tour of the beautifully preserved neighborhood of Casco Antiguo and the world-famous Panama Canal, or savor the flavors of Panama with a food tour with local dishes such as geisha coffee or ceviche. If you'd prefer to explore nearby nature, travel up the Río Chagres by traditional canoe to see monkeys, sloths, and toucans. Or, head to Soberania National Park, located right on the canal's banks, to learn about the area's wildlife and history. You'll end the day with a dinner and cultural experience back in Panama City, featuring typical recipes and a traditional folklore show.
Day 2: Transfer to the San Blas Islands, Sail to Isla Diablo
Today you'll be transferred from your hotel in Panama City to the Caribbean coast, where you'll set out on a sailing trip around the San Blas Islands. Located around four hours via car and ferry from the capital, the archipelago, also called Guna Yala, consists of around 365 islands. This is the traditional home of the Guna people and an ideal destination for encountering local culture, supporting Indigenous livelihoods, and soaking up the quintessential Caribbean island beauty.
Only around 50 islands are inhabited by the Guna people, a matriarchal society with autonomous rule over the province. The San Blas are known for their pristine nature and molas, a traditional textile made from layered fabrics that form a colorful pattern. The beautiful weather and lack of hurricanes attract sailors from all over, and the remoteness and well-preserved culture inspire many a visitor. Board your luxury catamaran and get settled into your cabin—tonight's destination is Isla Diablo, a tiny island in the archipelago's north that's fringed by coral reefs and white-sand beaches.
Day 3: Sail to Isla Perro Chico, Snorkel at Barco Hundido
Today you'll sail to the incomparable island paradise of Isla Perro Chico (Dog Island), also called Assudub Bibbi, in the local language. Nearly uninhabited except for some campsites and a small restaurant, the island is full of palm trees and white sand, but the main attractions lie offshore.
The island is famous for its shallow shipwreck, a gunship that sank just off the beach in the 1940s. Partly visible above the water, the ship, commonly known as the Barco Hundido, has created an artificial reef, making it ideal for snorkeling. You'll get the chance to snorkel all around the ship, marveling at the layers of coral that have obscured parts of the hull, and swim among many colorful tropical fish.
The island is also known for its Natural Pool, a sandbar under several feet of crystal-clear water home to many resident starfish. The shallow, clear water is perfect for swimming and relaxing, and you'll have plenty of time to enjoy this natural wonder before settling into your comfortable cabin for another night on the water.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Sail to Isla Waili, More Swimming & Snorkeling
Day 5: Transfer to Panama City, Depart
More Great Panama Itineraries
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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