Highlights of Panama

Day 7, Santa Catalina – Boquete
Head inland to the highlands, ascending to the charming mountain town of Boquete. Beautifully devoid of any humidity, it is the perfect place to take on some adrenaline activities!

Boquete is on the edge of Barú Volcano National Park, at 3,475m home to the highest point in Panama (ask us about ascending this phenomenal peak, offering simultaneous views of both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines – camping options also available). The rich, volcanic soil around the town results in some wonderful local produce to enjoy, including one of the world’s most sought-after coffees – Geisha.

The area is also an outdoor-lover’s dream, with a variety of nature trails, rivers and waterfalls to explore, as well as opportunities for climbing, zip-wiring and canopy tours. It is known as the Land of the Rainbows (yes, you will undoubtedly experience some tropical showers here!) and is also the base for exploring El Amistad – or Friendship – National Park, the largest nature reserve in Central America, uniquely managed by both Panama and Costa Rica.

Days 8-9, Boquete Hanging Bridges, zip-wiring & cloud forest hike
Whether you feel like taking it slow or going on a little adventure, Boquete has something for everyone. The next two days include some suggested activities but we can of course tailor these to suit your family.

Experience Panama’s cloud forests from a unique vantage point as you embark on a hiking adventure taking you through a series of hanging bridges over a lush natural reserve. Walk through the treetops of the cloud forest and keep your eyes open for endemic bird species including the Resplendent Quetzal. Admire the surrounding scenery as your guide interprets the ecosystem that surrounds you and be awed by the Giant Strangler Fig Trees dwarfing everything beneath.

You will then see the landscapes from a different perspective as you take to the sky and feel the rush of adrenaline as you zip through century-old cloud forest on a series of 12 steel cables stretching 4.5km between canopy platforms above pristine rivers and waterfalls. Glide past orchids and towering trees, spotting monkeys and exotic birds as gravity carries you across each span.

The following day discover Baru Volcano National Park’s lush cloud forest as you hike along the scenic Pipeline Trail. Surrounded by towering ancient trees and misty landscapes, this 4.5km hike (3-4 hours depending on your pace) is easily accessible for most active families. Keep your eyes peeled for vividly coloured butterflies, sloths, howler monkeys, peccaries and over 140 bird species.

The afternoon is free to further enjoy the delights of this mountain town. Take a guided tour through a lush coffee plantation or stop in the town’s cacao store for an immersive chocolate experience. There are horse-riding, rock climbing and biking options as well as fun, agricultural tours. We will suggest the best options to suit your family.

Day 10, Boquete – Bocas del Toro
From the highlands you will be transferred over the continental divide to the Caribbean coast. From here, climb aboard a shared water taxi and speed across the turquoise waters to the pristine islands of Bocas del Toro.

Bocas del Toro is an idyllic group of Caribbean islands near to the Costa Rican border and undoubtedly one of Panama’s highlights. Here the taxis are all boats and the gentle pace of life makes a perfect ending to any holiday. Across the six larger islands and countless smaller islets, there are dense forests filled with native wildlife and centuries-old communities still maintaining their traditions. You’ll find palm-fringed beaches where sea turtles nest, mangrove forests, crystal clear turquoise waters and protected coral reefs with amazing snorkelling and diving.

There are a variety of hotels to choose from, varying from luxurious over-the-water bungalows and barefoot eco-retreats on smaller islands to more economical options closer to the main town. We will include the perfect place for your family.

Day 11, Bocas del Toro
Today your boat tour will visit three different coastal ecosystems in one day. The first stop is Bird Island, a rocky islet, designated a marine reserve, where red-billed tropicbirds, brown boobies, frigatebirds and terns nest along steep cliffs. If conditions permit, this is a fabulous spot for some snorkelling. Then continue to Boca del Drago, where you can swim, walk along the beach or relax under the coconut palms and enjoy a local beachside lunch. Your final stop is Starfish Beach, where you will swim and snorkel in the shallow, clear water and observe the numerous starfish hugging the sea floor.

Day 12, Bastimentos National Marine Park
Take a boat tour through some of the best coastal areas in the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Start with a cruise to Dolphin Bay, where clear waters and active marine life often attract dolphins. You will then head to a small mangrove forest to see sloths in their natural habitat – cue much excitement from children and big kids alike! Then continue to Coral Cay for a snorkelling session over coral reefs, home to parrotfish, rays and sea turtles.

Then continue to the Zapatilla Cays, two small islands surrounded by mangroves and white sand beaches. You will have plenty of time to walk around and enjoy the gorgeous beaches and the crystal-clear waters at your own pace as well as a tasty picnic lunch before returning to your accommodation.

Day 13, Bocas del Toro
Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. Spend the day discovering pristine beaches, lush tropical trails and vibrant wildlife, all set within the breathtaking surroundings of Bocas del Toro. There are ATV or biking options on the main Colon Island as well as wildlife walking safaris. If you like being active, perhaps head out with a guide from Basti Town, with its strong Afro-Caribbean heritage, along the coast to Red Frog Beach on Isla Bastimentos. Highly recommended is a kayaking tour through the black, red and white mangroves. Diving is also an option although due to the flight the following day we would need to re-organise your schedule.

Day 14, Bocas Del Toro – Panama City
A sad farewell to the Caribbean this morning as you transfer to the tiny domestic airport in the main town. From here you will take the short flight back to Panama City  and transfer to your hotel in Casco Viejo.

Later this afternoon, take a guided walking tour of this historic old quarter, also known as Casco Antiguo, strolling along narrow avenues lined with colonial mansions and plazas.

Wander cobblestone streets to discover hidden courtyards, ornate balconies, and vibrant street art reflecting Casco’s modern revival. Hear tales of pirates, social change and preservation efforts. Your walk through history can also include a casual chocolate tasting as well as time perusing the main artisan stalls along the seafront.

This evening check out the superb local restaurants for some ceviche and maybe even one last rooftop bar… the perfect way to round off your last evening in Panama.

Day 15, Panama City – Departure
Time to bid goodbye (or perhaps ‘hasta luego’) to Panama. You’ll be picked up to transfer to the airport for your flight home.