Panama Highlights Tour: City, Islands and Cloud Forest | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

-

Panama Highlights Tour: City, Islands and Cloud Forest

, ,

PRIVATE TOUR - 7 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 3587

Private Tour Highlights

  • Seeing the old side to Panama City at Casco Antiguo, the historic quarter which is characterized by pretty colonial streets and churches.
  • Discovering the very first European settlement on the Pacific Coast of the Americas at Panama Viejo, where only crumbling ruins remain.
  • Riding by train along the original railway line from Panama City to Colon, past tropical jungle through the Panama Canal.
  • Snorkeling and swimming in the pristine waters of the coral-encrusted San Blas Islands, hopping from one island to the next by boat.
  • Tasting the aromatic coffee of Boquete having taken an exciting birdwatching hike along the Waterfall and Quetzal Trails.
  • Hiking through cloud forest in Baru Volcano National Park, spying incredible creatures like Howler Monkeys and Two-toed Sloths as well as native birds.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Experience the Panama Highlights Tour: City, Islands and Cloud Forest. Tucked away on the eastern slopes of the Volcan Barú is the small and charming mountain village of Boquete. It is known to produce some of the sweetest oranges and richest coffees in all of Panama and has an everlasting spring-like climate.

Panama City, with over 700,000 inhabitants, is the political, administrative and cultural center of the country. It has both historical and ultra-modern features. The city has numerous modern tourist attractions with the Panama Canal as being the 8th wonder of the modern world! But you will also find large shopping malls, jewellery at an affordable price, world-class hotels and restaurants. For most people, the New York-like skyline in Panama City is what reflects the modernity of the city the most.

Inclusions
Prices include: Domestic air transportation from Panama City to David, private airport transfers including one piece of luggage, hotel accommodation including breakfast, meals where specified, guided tours with bilingual guide and entrance fees. Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. There may be a surcharge for December- January and Easter.

Flight Panama City – Boquete (round) The flight has a duration of 1 hour approximately and it has a weight limit of 25 pounds / 12.5 kilograms per person.

Note:
Thursdays – Northbound departing Flamenco at 9:30 am
Fridays and Saturdays – Southbound departing Flamenco at 9:30 am
Saturdays – When Partial and Full transits are operated the check in time is at 7:00am

Please consult with a Yampu Tour Consultant for upcoming Panama Canal transit dates.
Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 3587

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

Panama City

Day flight to Panama City. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Biomuseo and Casco Antiguo. The Biomuseo tells the fascinating story of how, three million years ago, Panama changed life in the world. Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is his only work in Latin America and the tropics. The building was designed to tell the story of how the isthmus of Panama rose from the sea, uniting two continents, separating a vast ocean in two, and changing the planet's biodiversity forever. The Biomuseo's 4,000 square meters contain eight permanent exhibition galleries designed by Bruce Mau Design. In addition to the main spaces, the museum includes a public atrium, a space for temporary exhibitions, a shop, a cafe, and multiple outdoor exhibits displayed in the botanical park. The permanent exhibition is a combination of art and science that leads the visitor to experience a marvelous phenomenon. The Biomuseo is located on the Amador Causeway, a prominent area at the entrance to the Panama Canal in the Pacific Ocean. From the Biomuseo, one can clearly observe the skyline of the modern city, the historic district, Ancon Hill, and the Bridge of the Americas. To continue the tour, travelers will be taken to the Casco Antiguo, where visitors feel set back in time while admiring the lovely colonial houses, the narrow roads and the impressive churches. Travelers will get a good idea about Panama's history by driving or walking through the main attractions of this quarter. A delicious lunch will be served in a distinctive local restaurant. Continue on to Panama Viejo, the Old Panama. Panama Viejo was the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. This first Panama City was looted and destroyed by the notorious English buccaneer Henry Morgan in 1671 and therefore abandoned. Today there are only ruins left. Still, the tower of the ancient cathedral is standing and has become a landmark of the town. After the tour, be taken back to your hotel. Overnight in Panama City.
...read less

Biodiversity-Museum-Panama
Day
2

San Blas Islands

Today, leave Panama City and visit the San Blas Islands. Experience the pristine islands in just one day and discover an amazing turquoise archipelago, with more than 365 unspoiled islands facing the Caribbean Sea. This wonderful journey starts with an early morning pick up at the Panama City hotel. Head south to Tocumen to take the Pan American Highway, in direction to the Darien area, veering north across the central mountain range, surrounded by nature and scenic beauty. Upon arrival to Garti Tupile dock, enjoy a 20-minute boat ride to the Franklin Island passing the Tupile Islands which are inhabited by most of the Kuna population. Once on the island, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the white sand beaches, clear waters and spectacular coral reefs. Here travelers will be able to snorkel, play beach games, sunbathe or simply contemplate the beauty of the archipelago from a hammock while sipping a refreshing drink. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste great and fresh typical food, which usually is the catch of the day. If clients prefer, they can order a lobster for lunch in advance. This has an additional cost and it is subject to seasonal fishing. After lunch, there will be spare time for a nap or just rest to then continue with a boat trip to the Star Island to be amazed by the incredible banks of starfish. After the boat tour, return to the Garti Tupile dock, to get ready to go back to Panama City. ...read less

San-Blas-Panama
Day
3

Panama Canal

Yampu Travelers will have the opportunity to visit the Canal today. Undertake a train trip on the historical and original railway course from Panama City to Colon. This one-hour trip leads through the jungle and along the Panama Canal. This course was finished in 1855. The French Panama Canal company had acquired the railway line in 1880, as an assistance to build the Canal. In 1904 the Americans bought the Canal and the railway line and which they operated until 1979. In 1998, Panama privatized the railway line and renewed it completely. Since 2001, the course is again passable and a unique attraction. After the beautiful train trip, continue with the guide from Colon to the impressive Gatun Locks, the first set of locks situated on the Atlantic side of the Panama Canal. Here one will able to admire a series of three lock chambers where the huge container vessels are lifted or lowered a total of 26 meters. Each lock is 33.5 meters wide and 306 meters long and takes eight to 15 minutes to fill with water. The tour will continue to discover the next 100 years of the Panama Canal at the Expansion Observation Center. Witness history in the making while observing the construction of the new locks of the Panama Canal, one of the most important infrastructure projects of the early 21st century. The tour continues towards Portobelo, one of the Spanish Empire's most important ports. This port was the gathering point of the Peruvian treasures in the 15th century. These were shipped towards the metropolis of the empire. In addition, it was the center of control and inspection of the goods, which arrived from Spain. The ruin complex is built and set up in the middle of the tropical jungle and covers a set of fortresses, castles and military bases. Typical Panamenian lunch will be served at a local restaurant, before transferring back to the hotel in Panama City. ...read less

Portobelo-Ruins-Panama
Day
4

Walking Tour of Panama City

This morning, enjoy an early walking tour of Panama City. In the morning, start with a public bus ride from the hotel to the 5 de Mayo Square. From there, begin walking on the Central Avenue - a pedestrian area with local shops, restaurants and people selling a number of things from fresh fruits to watches. Along the way, enter a narrow market, and try local refreshments like Guarapo (Sugar Cane Juice) or Agua de Pipa (fresh Coconut Juice) and visit the Cafe Coca Cola - a historical Cafe where Politicians used to meet to make important decisions. This area of Panama City is very local with very little tourists. Arrive at the Casco Antiguo, Panama City's colonial district. Walk through the narrow streets and admire the lovely buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Among the places that will be visited with the guide are San Jose Church with its famous Golden Altar; French Plaza and its monument for the engineers of the Panama Canal; the thick city walls that used to protect this part of the city; the Presidential Palace as well as the Central Plaza and the impressive Cathedral. After this historical excursion, continue to the Fish Market. Early in the morning, the local fishermen come here to sell their catch. The Fish Market is also the restaurant that serves the most fresh variety of seafood in town. Enjoy a nice lunch (not included) before continuing by bus to the Old Panama or Panama Viejo. Panama Viejo was the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. This first Panama City was looted and destroyed by the notorious English buccaneer Henry Morgan in 1671 and therefore abandoned. Today there are only ruins left. Still, the tower of the ancient cathedral is standing and has become a landmark of the town. Together with the guide travelers will walk through the ruins that build a huge contrast to the modern skyscrapers of today's Panama City and climb the ancient tower.


After this excursion, enjoy a private transfer to the domestic airport for a flight to David. Upon arrival, be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel in Boquete.
...read less

Panama-City-Colonial-Building
Day
5

Boquete

Today, have a private tour that to the hot spots of the Boquete area. In the morning, be picked up at the hotel and driven to the Waterfall Trail for hiking, birding and search for wildlife. Afterwards, continue to the entrance of the Quetzal Trail and enjoy a lovely picnic lunch in midst of a lush vegetation. After lunch, continue with a panoramic tour of Boquete's finest crops including a wide variety of tropical plants. Now is the time for a short introduction to Boquete's strongest product: Coffee! The guide will explain everything about the delicious beans and will be provided - of course – with the opportunity to taste the different roasts. After the coffee experience, continue downhill to the hot springs of Caldera, approximately 30 minutes from Boquete. Relax at the natural hot springs and take a swim in the cold Caldera River for a change. After the tour, be taken back to the hotel. ...read less

boquete-canopy-Panama
Day
6

Hike Baru National Park

This amazing adventure begins in a Nature Reserve that belongs to Baru Volcano National Park, it retraces the steps of pre-Columbian Indians into a remote virgin cloud forest, surrounding the perimeter of Baru Volcano, habitat to 5 of the most ancient trees in Panama. During the hike, experience the enormous Quercus Trees that survived a volcano eruption 800 years ago. These magnificent millenary trees grow naturally throughout primary forests of Panama and Costa Rica. The trail parallels Quebrada La Mina, a gorgeous creek that meanders through the ridges and valleys above Boquete. With more than 220 bird species native to the area, including the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, birding opportunities abound. During the hike, there will also be great possibilities to spot mammals such as howler monkeys, white faced capuchins and two-toed sloths. This adventure offers the chance to see the cloud forest like no other hike will do. The hike is suitable for all passengers given the easy and accessible trails. ...read less

Quetzal-Bird-Panama
Day
7

Flight Home

Be met at the hotel for a private transfer back to David airport and connect with a flight to Panama City. From Panama City, connect with the international flight home.

Be met at the hotel for a private transfer back to David airport and connect with a flight to Panama City. From Panama City, connect with the international flight home.

Panama City, Panama

San Blas Islands

Panama Canal

Boquete, Chiriqui, Panama

Baru National Park panama

Places You'll See

  • panama-city-center

    Panama City

    The largest and most modern city in central America, as well as the capital of Panama, is Panama City. Within the city is the Panama Canal which links the Pacific and Atlantic oceans through a fifty-mile channel. Enjoy views of the canal via airplane or stay close to the ground and delight in a terrific view of Panama from Amador Causeway, connecting three islands to the mainland.

  • san-blas-islands-panama

    San Blas Islands

    Located just off of the Caribbean Coast are the tropical San Blas Islands. Take some time to enjoy the splendid ocean views while sunbathing on these tranquil beaches or observe the colorful corral and its abundant sea life while snorkeling through the warm waters. Be sure to take advantage of the many fun beach front and aquatic opportunities!

  • Mountains-Boquete-Panama

    Boquete

    The charming mountain village of Boquete can be found tucked away on the eastern slopes of the Volcan Baru. It is known to produce some of the sweetest oranges and richest coffees in all of Panama and has an everlasting spring-like climate.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Panama City : TRYP by Wyndham Panama Centro

Panama City : Toscana Hotel

Panama City : Hotel Deville (Jr. Suite)

Boquete : Los Establos Boutique Hotel (deluxe Coffee Cottages)

4 Star Properties

Panama City : The Bristol

Panama City : Grace Panama

Panama City : Westin Panama

Boquete : Hotel Finca Lerida

5 Star Properties

Panama City : Waldorf Astoria (Junior Suites)

Panama City : Las Clementinas

Panama City : Hotel Deville (Duplex Suite)

Boquete : Panamonte Inn & Spa

Luxury Properties

Panama City : American Trade Hotel (Super Cuarto Room)

Panama City : Ocean Club Intercontinental Hotel (Suite on the Curve)

Testimonials

Andy

Traveled February, 2012

I have had another fantastic trip

I have had another fantastic trip and am glad I chose to spend the whole 2 weeks in Panama rather than combine with another country as there is so much to see and do there. It is difficult to pick out the high points: the canal crossing was an ambition fulfilled; I had been a little apprehensive about San Blas but for no reason the cabins over the sea were amazing, Boquete was cool and the bird life wonderful. Tranquilo Bay in Bocas was exactly the right choice for me. The whole team was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable; they made my stay a real treat. I have so many photos I shall spend the next weeks sorting them! I didn’t get to see much of the Carnival but was treated to two firework displays from the view from my hotel window each night I am a big fireworks fan. I think this is the 6th trip I have taken with Yampu/Kontiki and so far they have all been wonderful. Thanks for organizing this one for me.

Traveled To

Cheryl

Traveled January 2016

Panama- It was seriously a great trip and I saw everything I wanted.

Our trip to Panama was seriously a great trip and I saw everything I wanted. We saw a bunch of kinkajous and cacomistles that came to our cabin at los quetzales. That place is magical, the bird life alone (we saw 6 quetzels, one even right outside our cabin) makes it worth a trip. Families would love these cabins and hands down the place had the best food in Panama.

Everything was made fresh and they had a huge organic garden with all kinds of vegetables, great for someone like me that does not eat meat.

Traveled To

Vivian J.

Traveled December, 2013

I want to thank you again for everything you did for my mother and daughter.

I want to thank you again for everything you did for my mother and daughter. They enjoyed a wonderful trip and everything went very smoothly. They loved the hotel and said the excursions were exceptional, with the guides giving them first class service. In fact, my Mother is considering moving down there. While she said it has changed so much, she really did enjoy herself so much and loved the country and what has been done to improve it. And without your finishing touches and tour plans the way you took into consideration her age and their needs, I doubt she would feel like moving back. I will definitely recommend your agency to anyone I know taking a trip oversees. Thanks again for everything.

Traveled To

Let Us Customize This Trip For You

Our World Experts offer full support and dedication to customizing this tour to fit your wishlist - We can mix and match experiences, hotels and highlights to fit your budget and taste.

Similar Tours