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5 Day itinerary in Panama, Central America & Caribbean

Panama City Express 5D/4N

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning sights of Panama City in this unforgettable adventure. Discover the historic charm of Casco Viejo, marvel at the engineering wonder of the Panama Canal, and explore the lush biodiversity of the Rainforest Discovery Center. This immersive journey offers a p... Read More

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Cacao

By Cacao

Overview

Physical Difficulty

Easy
help_outline

Recommended Age

Everyone

Operated in

English

GUIDANCE

On Some Day Trips

starting point

Panama City

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Nature & Widlife

Wildlife

Nature & Wildlife

Explorer Trips

Start/End

Night

Highlights

1

Explore Casco Antiguo: Wander through Panama’s colonial gem, filled with heritage.

2

Miraflores Locks Visit: Witness colossal ships navigate through narrow locks.

3

Panama Canal Voyage: Cruise through an iconic engineering masterpiece.

4

Nature Walk at Soberania: Discover diverse wildlife in lush rainforests.

Itinerary

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Day 1

place Day 1: Panama City, Panama

Arrival in Panama: Urban Gateway Awaits

Welcome to Panama—Arrival & Hotel Check-In

Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport, be warmly greeted by our friendly Spanish-speaking driver, ready to whisk you into the heart of Panama City. Glide through bustling streets to your comfortable hotel, where your adventure begins.

Settle In & First Panama Impressions

Take a moment to relax, freshen up, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the city. Your base is perfectly located for discovering the iconic Casco Antiguo and its colonial charm in the days to come!


Day 2

place Day 2: Panama City, Panama

Colonial Charm and Canal Wonders Tour

Historic Wonders of Casco Antiguo 

Embark on a private half-day tour led by your knowledgeable English-speaking guide. Begin by strolling through Casco Antiguo, Panama City’s enchanting colonial quarter founded in 1673. Marvel at architectural gems like the Presidential Palace, the National Theater, and the grand Cathedral, which stand beside colorful colonial facades. Absorb the lively local atmosphere, browse delightful souvenir shops, or relax in a cozy café nestled among timeless streets. Learn why this district was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Unlocking the Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks 

Next, take a short drive to the iconic Miraflores Locks—one of the most impressive engineering feats of the Panama Canal on the Pacific side. Witness giant ships expertly maneuvered through narrow chambers, a captivating sight of human ingenuity. Dive deeper at the Visitor Center, where interactive exhibits bring to life the technical brilliance, fascinating history, and vital ecological importance of the canal.



Day 3

place Day 3: Panama City, Panama

Epic Panama Canal Transit Cruise Day

Marina Adventure & Canal Boarding

Begin your day with a private transfer to the marina at Flamenco Island. There, you’ll board your cruise vessel and be greeted by an enthusiastic, knowledgeable English-speaking narrator, ready to bring the Panama Canal’s story to life.

Sailing the Panama Canal—Locks & Landmarks

Savor breathtaking moments as you glide beneath the iconic Bridge of the Americas, entering the mighty Panama Canal. Witness the incredible mechanics of the Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks, with expert explanations at every stage.

Traversing Culebra Cut: Engineering Triumphs & Natural Sights

Marvel as your ship navigates the famous Culebra (Gaillard) Cut—a dramatic, narrow channel carved through Panama’s rolling mountain ridge. Feel history all around as you pass “Contractor’s Hill” and “Gold Hill,” and keep your eyes peeled for sunbathing crocodiles along the banks!

Lunch Buffet with a View (Midday)

While traveling through this legendary waterway, enjoy a delicious lunch buffet on board, accompanied by soft drinks and water, all while surrounded by stunning canal scenery.

Gatun Lake to Gamboa: Final Leg

Enter legendary Gatun Lake, which once held the title of the world’s largest manmade lake. Your fascinating journey ends at Gamboa, a canal maintenance hub, from where you’ll take a comfortable 30-minute shuttle back to Panama City. A private driver will bring you to your hotel for a well-deserved evening of relaxation.

Meals: Lunch

Day 4

place Day 4: Panama City, Panama

Rainforest Encounters in Soberania National Park

Early Morning Departure & Arrival 

Set out early with your private English-speaking guide as you leave the city behind for a short drive into Panama’s wild side. In just half an hour, you’ll arrive at the pristine Soberania National Park, a vast expanse of secondary rainforest established in 1980.

Rainforest Hike on Pipeline Road 

Embark on a guided hike along the famed Pipeline Road, known for its straight path and accessible terrain that meanders through lush rainforest. As you move quietly beneath the green canopy, keep your eyes and ears open for chattering white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys singing in the treetops, and the tiny, enchanting Geoffroy’s tamarins.

Wildlife Encounters & Birdwatching

The park teems with wildlife—spot elusive three-toed sloths hanging from branches, scurrying agoutis, and even anteaters digging for their breakfast. Soberania is a birder’s paradise, boasting a remarkable 525 bird species; your guide will help you spot toucans, trogons, and perhaps the famous motmot.

Return to the City

After an exhilarating morning, wind down as you return to your hotel just in time for lunch. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore vibrant Casco Antiguo at your own pace.


Day 5

place Day 5: Panama City, Panama

Farewell Panama: Airport Departure Day

Final Farewell and Journey Home

After savoring your last morning in Panama City, a friendly Spanish-speaking driver will arrive at your hotel for a seamless private transfer to Tocumen International Airport. Relax in comfort as you reflect on your incredible experiences, from rainforest hikes to canal adventures. Leave Panama filled with stories and memories to last a lifetime.

Transfer Details:

Your departure time will be arranged to perfectly suit your flight schedule, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to the airport.


What’s Included

Meals expand_less

  • Lunch (1)

Transport expand_less

  • Private Airport Transfers
  • Shuttle transfer from Gamboa to Panama City

Activities expand_less

  • Cultural and Nature Expeditions
  • Private half day city tour with English Speaking Driver-Guide
  • Group expedition to the Panama Canal
  • Private half-day walking tour in Soberania National Park

Not Included expand_less

  • International and/or domestic flights
  • Other activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses and gratuities

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