The San Blas islands, a postcard archipelago
Immerse yourself among the Guna Indians and discover a way of life that revolves around the sea.
There’s no need to embark on a long roadtrip to Panama if you don’t have the time or the inclination! This star holiday will immerse you in the country’s culture and nature, while enjoying the capital’s pleasant evenings
Length of stay: 10 days
Theme: The Essentials
Difficulty: Simple
There's plenty to do in and around Panama City. Panama City is bubbling with life, history and festivities. If you decide to make Panama City your exclusive base (or almost, as it would be a shame not to take advantage of the beaches), take advantage of the many festivities that take place during the dry season.
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Immerse yourself among the Guna Indians and discover a way of life that revolves around the sea.
The capital is criss-crossed by the canal and is very lively. The Casco Viejo is sure to charm you!
These two autonomous communities have a lot to say about their histories and lifestyles.
Panama City, Panama
Esclusas de Gatún, Colón, Panama
Lago Bayano, Panama
San Blas Islands, Panama
Río Chagres, Panama
Gatun Lake, Panama
Gamboa, Panama
Welcome at Tocumen international airport in Panama City.
Transfer to your hotel. Overnight in a Panama City hotel.
Discover Panama City: Panama La Vieja, Cerro Ancon and Casco Antiguo in private service.First stop: Panama La Vieja, the country’s first capital before it was destroyed by the notorious pirate Henry Morgan. Then, off to Cerro Ancon to see the city from a new angle. You’ll enjoy lovely views of the historic center, the business district and the canal. During the walk, you may be lucky enough to spot a variety of animals and birds, before heading off to the Casco Antiguo. This bohemian district plunges you into the country’s historic past, with its typical alleyways and colorful buildings leading to the Place de France. Discover the art-deco architecture and the cathedral. In the early afternoon, transfer to the hotel. Night in a Panama City hotel.
Guided day trip to the Aguas Claras Locks and Fort San Lorenzo in private service.First stop to discover the Panama Canal and the Agua Clara Locks. Located on the Atlantic side, close to the town of Colón, the visitor center offers a panoramic view of all the ships in transit (container ships, liners, etc.). You’ll learn more about the history of the canal’s construction and expansion, as well as how it works, before seeing it for yourself.Then head a little further north to the coast to discover Fort San Lorenzo, overlooking the mouth of the Rio Chagres. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, it is considered an extraordinary example of 17th and 18th century military architecture. You’ll be immersed in Panama’s history through these ruins, but also in the heart of vegetation ideal for bird and animal watching.In the late afternoon, transfer to your hotel. Overnight in a Panama City hotel.
Discover Lake Bayano and the Madugandi CavesExplore Panama’s best-kept secret: Lake Bayano. It’s the second-largest water reservoir in the region, and home to numerous birds and other animal species that you may see or hear during the day. You’ll have the opportunity to walk through limestone caves formed centuries ago, so be prepared to spot bats and discover underground mini waterfalls before arriving at a refreshing natural crystal pool.The excursion continues down the river by kayak to a floating platform where you’ll be served a delicious home-cooked meal.Overnight in a Panama City hotel.
Discover the paradise-like archipelago of the San Blas: coral reefs, deserted islands, white sandy beaches and idyllic sunsets are the setting for this day spent in the heart of the Gunas Indian community. You’ll set off early from Panama City, and after a 2-hour drive, you’ll embark for one of the islands in this archipelago, where you can paddle or kayak and explore the island. You can also snorkel in the wrecks of a ship inhabited by colorful fish and enjoy a natural pool with starfish. Overnight and full board on the island.
Another day in paradiseAfter breakfast, you’ll visit the island of Guasirdub, a quiet and exclusive place where you can relax on a hammock, use the kayaks to explore the island’s surroundings andhave lunch onHierba Island, where you’ll find seafront swings. You’ll have another chance to swim in a natural pool before meeting the local community and learning more about their handicrafts and local dance.Overnight and full board on the island.
Last moments in the archipelago
Take advantage of your last moments in the San Blas onAguja Island to relax on the beach.
After lunch, you’ll leave the archipelago to return to the capital Panama City.
overnight in a Panama City hotel.
A day dedicated to meeting the Puru Biakiru Emberas
You’ll make your way to the port of Corotú, from where you’ll take a motorized pirogue to one of the community’s villages. On the other side of the river, you’ll be welcomed by the cacique (spiritual leader) and the village children. Throughout the day, you’ll discover their way of life and traditions, including the art of tattooing. You’ll also have the opportunity to bathe in a waterfall in the heart of the surrounding jungle, learn about their knowledge of medicinal plants and watch a performance of ancestral dances. Finally, a typical fish meal will be served under banana leaves. Return to the pier in the early afternoon.
overnight in a Panama City hotel.
Day trip to Lake Gatun and jungle trekking, thenon to Lake Gamboa, where you’ll board a boat for a canal cruise as close as possible to the ships in transit between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. You’ll come close to several islands inhabited by different species of monkey, including the famous capuchin monkeys that live in the region. The day continues with a short walk along Pipeline Road, an ideal spot for birdwatching. You can also climb the observation tower for a panoramic view of the rainforest. Overnight in a hotel in Gamboa
Local expertise

Custom design

Tracking and safety

Authentic experiences

Without intermediaries

Responsible tourism
Partners carefully selected according to CSR criteria
Raising our teams' awareness of environmental issues
Commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of our trips
Terra Panamerica's committed work charter