Panama - islands, local villages and manatees

Panama City

Book a hotel or hostel in Casco Viejo, the historic part of the city and take your time to relax after your flight, stroll around and discover great restaurants and roof top bars. After a good night sleep, you can easily take the public transport (metro and bus) to visit the Miraflores Locks and the Panama Canal. Be aware that you arrive before 10 am because the massive container ships are only entering the Panama Canal in the morning.

Bocas del Toro: Island fun

Bocas del Toro, the main island of the Bocas del Toro archipelgo, is called the Ibiza of Panama, but in fact it is an lovely island with great restaurants, water sports and beaches. Take a direct flight from Panama city to Bocas del Toro (Air Panama) if you want to travel in the most convenient way. To save on budget, you can also take a bus. Take you time to enjoy island life. Visit Boca del Drago and Playa Estrella by public bus (departure from the park) or take a boat trip to Dolphin Bay, Cayo Crawl and Red frog beach to go snorkeling.

Islal Bastimento, stay overnight in an eco-friendly tent at Red Frog Beach

For most tourists Red Frog Beach is only a day trip to enjoy the great beach, but it becomes really special once all day trippers have left and you can enjoy the sunset and have a great dinner in the meantime. Book 2 nights in the Palmar Beach Lodge. Free transfer from Bocas del Toro to Isla Bastimento is includes.

Humedales De San San Pond Sak, protecting sea turtles and manatees

Be part of this wonderful project with the most amazing and passionate people who dedicate their lives to protecting the sea turtles from poachers. You can join their nightly patrol, enjoy the wildlife from a canoe, test if you're lucky enough to spot manatees and of course enjoy their freshly cooked organic meals. The sleeping quarters are basic, but if you enjoy nature, this is heaven for you.

URARI Turismo Rural Comunitario at Silico Creek

Stay at a real indigenous village in Silico Creek and experience village life yourself. You can stay at the specially build accommodation at the top of the mountain with amazing views. Comfort is limited but authentic, f.e. you can shower with panoramic views. The family cooks wonderful meals for you and you can learn about cacao traditions.

Valle de las Minas, Chiriquí

Time for staying in the mountains now. Visit the river canyons, go treasure hunting, enjoy the views from your hammock or learn about coffee production. Everything is possible in The Lost and Found Hostel.

Panama City, enjoy the advantages of a big city

Time to enjoy 2 days of luxury in contrast to the authentic rural life of the last week. Choose a good hotel with at least a swimming pool and bars and restaurants closely. Have a hot shower, go shopping in the Albrook Mall, be curious at the yacht harbour and admire the skyline of Panama City.