Central and South America

Panama | A Taste of Panama: Canal, Rainforest, and Culture

Duration:
9 Days
Price:
From $3,075
Interests:
Cultural Travel
Organize This Trip Print Itinerary
Panama City skyline
Keel-billed Toucan
Casco Viejo neighborhood
Geoffroy's Tamarin
Gamboa rainforest
Red-legged Honeycreeper
Panama Viejo ruins
White-faced capuchin monkeys
Antón Valley
Organize This Trip
Organize This Trip

About this trip

Journey to the “Crossroads of the World” for an informative look at Panama’s fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the Pacific side of the country as you learn about the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal. Go beyond the canal and delve deeper into the country’s cultural identity and its unwavering commitment to wildlife and plant conservation, spending time at several noteworthy public and private reserves and national parks. Reflect on the effects of Spanish colonization in the capital’s historical districts and examine how Panama’s unique geography played a vital role in shaping the ecology of the Americas.

Highlights

  • Uncover Panama’s role as an international trade center and land of cultural diversity in the historical district of Casco Viejo and the ruins of Panamá Viejo.
  • Discover how Panama’s advantageous location at the convergence of two continents gives it the highest diversity of bird species in Central America and plenty of unique wildlife.
  • Witness the Canal’s elaborate lock system in action at the Miraflores Visitor Center and experience a partial canal transit.
  • Learn about the geological origins, natural history, and ecological effects of the Panamanian isthmus at the Frank Gehry-designed BioMuseo.
  • Visit a sloth rescue center, meet animal ambassadors and learn about wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release during canal expansion.

Activity Level 3: MODERATE

Participants should be able to ascend or descend 60 stairs consecutively, plus walk for at least 3 hours over some steep slopes, uneven, and potentially slippery surfaces without difficulty. Physical activities typically last for 3 or more hours at a time.

11 Travelers

Land Cost

$3,075 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$3,150 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What makes us different

Rich content

All of our programs include experiences that are enriching and engaging to facilitate a genuine connection between our travelers and their destinations

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Custom-tailored Trips

At Holbrook Travel we can customize any itinerary to meet the needs and goals of your group.

Low stress travel planning

We take care of all the details so you know your trip will be smooth sailing

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Panama City
Day 1
Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, meet your driver and transfer approximately 45 minutes to the hotel, which is situated along the Amador Causeway. Check-in begins at 3 pm. This evening, meet your guide for a welcome orientation to the program and Panama City before enjoying a welcome dinner with your group in the hotel restaurant. Please note: In order to schedule the canal transit, this program needs to begin on a Monday.
Dinner included
Radisson Hotel Panama Canal
Panama City
Day 2
After breakfast, head out to explore the historical wonders of Casco Viejo, or Casco Antiguo, the historical district built in 1671 after the destruction of Panamá Viejo by the English privateer Henry Morgan. Casco Viejo's parks and narrow streets are lined with colorful buildings representative of Spanish, French, and early American architectural styles. This eclectic collection of architectural styles reflects the city's role as an international trade center and culturally diverse metropolis long before the building of the canal. Explore the Metropolitan Cathedral, Municipal Palace, National Theater, French Embassy, and France Square. Later, visit the Interoceanic Museum and the Mola Museum before having lunch at a local restaurant.This afternoon, visit the Panama Canal Administration Building followed by the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center. A local expert will join your group for an in depth tour of the museums interactive displays. Visit on observation terrace and to witness the engineering marvel of the Canal at work followed by a film in the IMAX theater about the locks. (NOTE: closed toed shoes required for this visit.) Return to the hotel to freshen up, and then take an evening walk to the Canal House Panamá restaurant for dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Radisson Hotel Panama Canal
Panama City
Day 3
In the morning, take a walk in a tropical dry forest in the center of Panama City, the Metropolitan Natural Park. Perhaps the only forest reserve within a major capital city in Latin America, it boasts a rich variety of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles; it also affords visitors the chance to see Geoffroy's Tamarin. Take an easy walk to an overlook for a sweeping perspective of Panama City. Next, visit the Biomuseo, Panama City's museum that showcases the country's natural history and impact on the world's biodiversity. The strikingly colorful building was designed by world renowned architect Frank Gehry. It represents the saga of the Isthmus of Panama, a land that united two continents, changed the world's biodiversity, and connected the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Inside, eight permanent exhibits tell the story in graphic detail. Have lunch at a local restaurant, and then visit Punta Culebra - Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute to explore a rocky intertidal zone and sandy beach at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. Return to the hotel for some time at leisure. Listen to a lecture given by a local expert and titled "Panama Canal and the GDP of the Panamanian Economy" before dinner at La Azotea Restaurant in Casco Antiguo.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Radisson Hotel Panama Canal
Anton Valley
Day 4
Begin the journey to Antón Valley with a stop at Altos de Campana National Park, the oldest national park in the country, established in 1966 to protect the Panama Canal watershed. The park boasts terrific views of the Chame Bay and a great spot for birdwatching. Continue towards Antón Valley, stopping for lunch en route. Arrive at the hotel, check in, and then spend some time exploring the property and town of El Valle de Antón. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Los Mandarinos Boutique Spa and Hotel
Anton Valley
Day 5
After breakfast, take a field trip to Cerro Gaital Natural Monument. The lush, 827 acre nature reserve protects the mountainous terrain surrounding El Valle de Antón and is home to more than 300 bird species. Some of the best birding is done along the fringes of the reserve, where vegetation is less dense. Migrant raptors can be seen here, as well as residents like the Barred Hawk and the Bat Falcon. Look for the Tawny-crested Tanager, Chestnut-capped Brushfinch, Orange-billed Nightingale-Thrush, Green Hermit, and Spotted Woodcreeper. In the afternoon, visit Butterfly Haven, a refuge that features a 1,500-square-foot enclosure containing more than 250 beautiful butterflies, as well as educational exhibits. It is also possible to see hummingbirds and other tropical birds feeding in the gardens. Continue your exploration of the valley at APROVACA Orchid Nursery and Conservation Center, a non-profit organization established to conserve and protect native orchids. Stroll the orchid garden and the nursery, and learn about their project to reintroduce endemic orchids back into their natural habitats.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Los Mandarinos Boutique Spa and Hotel
Gamboa
Day 6
This morning, depart for Panama City. Stop at the Discovery Center at El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center Foundation, which serves as an educational resource to learn about amphibians, reptiles, and other endangered species in Panama. Have lunch en route. Upon arrival into Panama City, visit the Summit Botanical Gardens. The first botanical gardens were planted at Summit in 1923 by the United States as part of a program to reproduce and distribute tropical plants from around the world. In 1929, the name "Canal Zone Experimental Gardens" was bestowed upon the site, and in 1962, a small collection of native animals was added. In 1979, under the terms of the Torrijos Carter Treaties, ownership of Summit reverted to the national government and then to the City of Panama in 1985, when it became known as the Summit Municipal Park and Botanical Garden. Arrive at Gamboa Rainforest Resort in time for dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Gamboa
Day 7
Start the morning with a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary on the resort property. Learn about wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, their work to transition injured animals back into the wild, animal relocation during canal expansion, and meet their animal ambassadors. Then, board a ship in Gamboa to enjoy the unique experience of a partial, southbound transit through the Panama Canal, which takes about four hours to complete and includes lunch on board. Travel south through the Galliard Cut to the Pedro Miguel Locks, the first of two sets of locks on the Pacific side. Here, the ship is lowered 29.5 feet in one step. Then, pass through Miraflores Lake, an artificial body of freshwater that separates Pedro Miguel and Miraflores Locks. Passing through the Miraflores Locks, the ship is lowered 59 feet in two steps to the Pacific Ocean and provides beautiful views of the Panama City skyline.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Gamboa
Day 8
After breakfast, visit Rainforest Discovery Center and walk the Pipeline road in Soberanía National Park. Created in 1980, it stands as one of Panama's natural jewels and is one of the country's most accessible tropical rainforests. Have lunch, and then spend the afternoon at leisure to enjoy the hotel amenities and explore the grounds. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the hotel along with an Afro-Panamanian dance performance and folkloric show.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Depart
Day 9
This morning, travel to the international airport for the flight back to the United States. Participants with later flights can use their hotel rooms until check-out at 12 pm. Except for breakfast, all other meals are on your own today.
Breakfast- included
11 Travelers

Land Cost

$3,075 - Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$3,150 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2027

Book 10 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Panama. Passports must be valid for at least three months after the date of entry.

A visa is not re­quired for visits up to 180 days.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Panamanian Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

U.S. citizens entering Panama by commercial flight may be charged a $5 tourist fee if Holbrook does not make your air reservations.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Panama unless you are arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk.

Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Panama, primarily east of the area surrounding the Panama Canal. The CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine if you are traveling to these areas. Consult your physician for more information.

Though not required, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Panama.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to certain areas of Panama may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. There is no vaccine to protect against malaria. If you are visiting areas where malaria is present and choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your doctor for a prescription. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin.

DENGUE FEVER & OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

Locally transmitted cases of dengue fever have been reported in Panama. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with dengue and are spreading it to people. In addition, locally transmitted cases of Zika virus, leishmaniasis, and other insect-borne illnesses have previously been reported in Panama.

The CDC recommends that travelers to Panama protect themselves against insect bites. As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Suggested Packing List

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary. You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities. Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services at additional cost. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection; jeans tend to be uncomfortable in hot and humid conditions, but are fine in the cooler highlands.
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting high-elevation areas)
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs. If your itinerary indicates muddy hikes with rubber boots provided on-site, pack a few pairs of knee socks to prevent blisters.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more rugged itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re whitewater rafting or visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or Buff-style headwear

MISCELLANEOUS

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Personal toiletries
  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

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