Viva el Caribe!

Discover Panama & Costa Rica

A sun-drenched adventure through rainforests, coasts and cultural treasures.

Days
24
Destinations
10
Type of journey
Private
Activities
8

Overview from the travel specialist

Hi, I'm Björn: A tropical journey with the perfect blend of freedom and purposeful adventure. This itinerary offers hidden beach gems, colourful cultures and unforgettable nature experiences - tailor-made for curious explorers who want to switch off and immerse themselves in the spirit of the Caribbean.

Highlights

of your Central America round trip

âś“ Panama City & Canal - Modern skyline meets colonial charm and one of the greatest wonders of the world
âś“ Valle de AntĂłn - Explore a volcanic crater with waterfalls, forests and markets
âś“ Isla Coiba Snorkelling - One of the most biodiverse marine parks in the Pacific
âś“ Bocas del Toro - Caribbean island life with boat tours, beaches and nightlife
âś“ Puerto Viejo & Cahuita - Afro-Caribbean flair and biodiverse rainforests in Costa Rica Cahuita - Afro-Caribbean flair and biodiverse rainforests in Costa Rica
✓PacuareRiver Rafting - Optional adventure through rapids and canyons


Adventures through Panama & Costa Rica: 24 days full of discoveries

Discover the best of Panama and Costa Rica on this 24-day odyssey that takes you through steamy jungles, mountain towns and turquoise waters. Begin in Panama City, a vibrant capital where skyscrapers rise alongside colonial streets. Witness the engineering feat of the Panama Canal and learn about the local traditions of the Emberá community.

Continue to the cool forests of Valle de AntĂłn, the surf towns of PedasĂ­ and Santa Catalina and the pristine waters of Coiba National Park. Enjoy the mountain air and coffee in Boquete and then relax in the archipelago of Bocas del Toro.

Cross the border into Costa Rica and be enchanted by the Afro-Caribbean rhythms in Puerto Viejo, the lush trails of Cahuita and the wild rivers of Turrialba. End your journey in lively San José with unforgettable impressions from the coast to the treetops.

Day 1: Arrival in Panama City

Welcome to Panama!

After your arrival in Panama City, you will be taken to your hotel by private transfer. Settle in and take some time to relax or explore the area.

You can take a relaxing stroll through the historic Casco Viejo neighbourhood, enjoy a drink on the rooftop or simply take in the vibrant life of the city.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Panama City (breakfast), Private transfer from the airport

Day 2: Panama City - Emberá

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the rainforest and get to know the Emberá community. Learn more about their traditional customs, music, dances and handicrafts that create a deep cultural connection.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Panama City (breakfast, lunch), Excursion to the Emberá indigenous community

Day 3: Panama City

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city at your own pace.

Stroll through the vibrant markets of Casco Viejo, visit the colourful Biomuseo or take part in an optional city tour and visit the world-famous Panama Canal.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Panama City (breakfast)

Optional: City tour & Panama Canal visit

Day 4: Valle de AntĂłn

Leave the capital behind and make your way to the lush Valle de AntĂłn, a peaceful town nestled in an ancient volcanic crater.

Relax on arrival, breathe in the cool mountain air and explore the local nature trails or thermal springs at your leisure.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Valle de AntĂłn (breakfast), Private transfer

Day 5: Valle de AntĂłn

Today is yours to spend at leisure.

Hire a bike and ride through flower-lined streets or hike to picturesque spots such as the Chorro El Macho waterfall or Cerro Gaital, from where you can enjoy panoramic views. Interact with the locals at the lively artisan market or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Valle de AntĂłn (breakfast)

Optional: Bike tour, Market visit, or Hiking

Day 6: PedasĂ­

Travel to the charming village of PedasĂ­ on the Pacific coast.

After checking into your hotel, enjoy the afternoon at Playa Venao, where you can relax on the beach or watch the surfers on the waves.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in PedasĂ­ (breakfast), Private transfer

Day 7: PedasĂ­

Spend your free day discovering the natural beauty of the Azuero Peninsula.

Choose an excursion to Isla Iguana for snorkelling or birdwatching or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the sandy beaches of PedasĂ­.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in PedasĂ­ (breakfast)

Optional: Excursion to Isla Iguana

Day 8: Santa Catalina

Continue your journey along the coast with a scenic drive to Santa Catalina, a quiet beach village.

Upon arrival, relax with a walk on the beach or a refreshing swim and watch the sun set over the Pacific.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Santa Catalina (breakfast), Shuttle transfer

Day 9: Coiba National Park

Take a full-day excursion to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Snorkel or dive among colourful coral reefs, tropical fish and maybe even turtles or dolphins. It is a paradise for lovers of marine life.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Santa Catalina (breakfast, lunch), Full-day tour to Coiba National Park

Day 10: Santa Catalina

Enjoy a relaxing day in Santa Catalina.

Surf the famous breaks, kayak along the coast or simply enjoy a siesta on the beach under swaying palm trees.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Santa Catalina (breakfast)

Optional: Surfing

Day 11: Boquete

Venture into the lush cloud forest where you will walk over suspension bridges and roam through diverse ecosystems rich in birds, orchids and tropical trees.

This unforgettable experience not only offers breathtaking views, but also a deep connection with nature.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Boquete (breakfast), Shuttle transfer

Day 12: Boquete

Explore the region with optional excursions, such as a visit to a family-run coffee plantation to learn the secrets of Panama's best beans, or a dip in natural hot springs surrounded by lush vegetation.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Boquete (breakfast)

Optional: Coffee tour

Day 13: Boquete

Opt for a hike on the famous Los Quetzales trail, which is known for its scenic beauty and the chance to see the elusive quetzal bird. Nature lovers will have plenty to admire here.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Boquete (breakfast)

Optional: Los Quetzales trail & birdwatching

Day 14: Bocas del Toro

You will be travelling to the tropical archipelago of Bocas del Toro, famous for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and vibrant Caribbean culture.

After checking into your hotel, you have time to spend the evening relaxing by the water and savouring the idyllic atmosphere to the full.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Bocas del Toro (breakfast), Shuttle transfer, Ferry

Day 15: Bocas del Toro

Spend the day exploring the many islands, beaches and lagoons of Bocas. Snorkelling, stand-up paddling or simply sunbathing are great ways to pass the time.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Bocas del Toro (breakfast)

Day 16: Bocas del Toro

Enjoy a relaxing day on unspoilt beaches, explore the lively city or indulge in fresh fish.

For the more adventurous, water activities such as snorkelling, paddle boarding and diving are available - perfect for experiencing the Caribbean paradise to the full!

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Bocas del Toro (breakfast)

Optional: Boat tour to Zapatilla Cay & Dolphin Bay

Day 17: Bocas del Toro

Take another day to relax or visit your favourite beach.

The Caribbean rhythm makes time pass more slowly.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Bocas del Toro (breakfast)

Day 18: Puerto Viejo

Cross the border into Costa Rica and travel to the charming beach town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, where tranquillity, nature and Caribbean flair await you.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Puerto Viejo (breakfast), Ferry, Shuttle transfer

Day 19: Puerto Viejo

This stunning coastal sanctuary combines lush rainforest with vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.

Stroll along picturesque trails while keeping an eye out for sloths, howler monkeys and colourful toucans. For the more adventurous, an exciting snorkelling tour is the perfect way to explore the underwater world.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Puerto Viejo (breakfast)

Optional: Visit to Cahuita National Park

Day 20: Puerto Viejo

Use your last full day in Puerto Viejo for surfing, cycling along the coast or visiting a local cocoa farm.

The laid-back atmosphere of the town is perfect for savouring the last moments of your beach adventure.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Puerto Viejo (breakfast)

Day 21: Turrialba

You leave the coast behind and continue into the lush interior of Turrialba, a region known for its impressive mountain landscapes and variety of outdoor activities. After checking into your hotel, you may enjoy a relaxed afternoon - perhaps with a gentle forest walk, a visit to the Guayabo National Monument, or simply by taking in the fresh mountain air.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Turrialba (breakfast), Private transfer

Day 22: Turrialba

Enjoy a relaxing day in the lush mountain landscapes of Turrialba. Take in the peaceful surroundings with gentle walks, quiet moments at your accommodation, or your own explorations in nature. For those seeking adventure, an optional rafting experience on the Pacuare River is available - a spectacular wild-water route combining natural beauty with thrilling action.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Turrialba (breakfast)

Optional: Rafting in the Pacuare River

Day 23: San José

Today you continue your journey to San José, Costa Rica's lively capital. After your shuttle transfer and hotel check-in, enjoy free time to discover local cafés, markets, or cultural spots in the city before your onward travel.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in San José (breakfast), Shuttle transfer

Day 24: Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to the airport as your journey comes to an end. Take a final moment to reflect on the many experiences of the past weeks before continuing your onward or homeward travels.

Services: Breakfast, Private transfer to the airport


What is included?

Accommodation

Accommodation in selected hotels or similar accommodations

Transfer

In air-conditioned vehicles

Meals

Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Tour guide

Local, English-speaking guides for included activities

Entrance fees/ activities

All excursions and entrance fees listed in the itinerary

24/7 availability

We are available around the clock if you have any questions!

Plan your dream holiday

Don't miss the chance to make your dream trip a reality! Contact our experienced travel consultants now and let them inspire and advise you for your trip.

Your travel expert

Optional services

  • International flights
  • Optional excursions and services
  • Tips and personal expenses (not included)
  • Transfer from your home to the airport and back

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All important travel information

Visit our travel information page and discover everything you need to know for your upcoming trip to Central America. Here you will find details on the best time to travel, information on time changes and recommendations for important health precautions that you should take before your departure.

We have summarised all the necessary information for you so that your stay in Central America is pleasant and smooth. You can also find out more about local customs, safety advice and tips for an authentic and unforgettable stay.

Travel information Central America