Beaches, rainforests and modern cities; Panama is a dream-come-true for true explorers. Take in the sights of Panama City, framed by the Pacific Ocean and the famous man-made Panama Canal. Stroll down the cobblestoned streets of Casco Viejo, the City’s old quarter, to see the grandeur of old colonial homes and cafes. Steer away from the well-travelled path and straight to the Chiriqui Highlands, where gorgeous landscapes await you or take a dip in the thermal waters of Caldera Hot Springs. With so much to see and do, it’s hard not to fall in love with amazing Panama. Here, we’ve put together the perfect 5-day itinerary, so you can experience the best of Panama!
DAY 1 – PANAMA CITY
Arrive in beautiful, colourful and vibrant Panama City. Built in 1519 by Pedro Arias de Avila, a Spanish conquistador who made it his base for plundering Peru’s riches, Panama today remains one of the central hubs for commerce and trade in the Americas. Offering diverse natural wonders, a melting pot of ethnicities and cultures and history as well as modern cityscapes, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this lively city!
DAY 2 – PANAMA CITY
Spend your day touring around the city and witnessing some of its highlights. Start with a visit to the Casco Antiguo, the colonial area and oldest sector of modern Panama City, founded in 1673 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic district was built as a protected walled city after Panama City was burned down in a pirate attack in 1671. Here, you can see the restored colonial buildings, churches and historical monuments.
Next, visit the Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal to witness this engineering genius in operation. You’ll also learn about the history of the canal and its construction, and observe transiting vessels navigating the locks from just a few feet away.
DAY 3 – GAMBOA RAINFOREST RESORT
Today is sure to set your wild heart beating! Starting in Panama City, board your vessel for a Panama Canal partial transit. Your boat will enter the canal at the Gaillard Cut, where the Chagres River flows into the canal and where the canal was carved through the Continental Divide. Enter the Pedro Miguel Locks, where your vessel will be lowered about 10 metres into Miraflores Lake. From here, you’ll continue to the Miraflores Locks and be lowered almost 20 metres to the Pacific Ocean, where you will disembark your ship and head to the Gamboa Rainforest Resort within Soberania National Park.
DAY 4 – GAMBOA RAINFOREST RESORT
An enchanting journey takes you deep into the dense jungles of the Chagres, where the Embera Indians have lived for centuries. The adventure begins with a river cruise up the Chagres in dugout canoes, the Embera traditional hand-carved boats.
Upon arrival in the Indian village, you will be taken back in time as you are immersed in ancient Embera cultural dances and music that have not changed much since Columbus arrived in the 1500s. The Emberas will give you a glimpse into their mystical rituals and amazing knowledge of medicinal plants and other natural remedies. The locals will invite you to explore the area’s abundant variety of birds and wildlife during a trek that takes you through the untouched jungle and past sparkling waterfalls.
DAY 5 – GAMBOA RAINFOREST RESORT
Today is all about relaxing! Make the most of the resort’s many activities, like an aerial tram tour, kayaking, fishing, or bird and monkey tours. Or simply relax by the pool or at the spa.
Interested in discovering Panama for yourself? Check out our Panama Monograms Holiday Packages here!
