Panama and Costa Rica form a perfect combination for travelers seeking exuberant nature, vibrant culture, and authentic experiences. Begin in Panama City, gateway to the continent, where the modern skyline contrasts with colonial heritage and the world-famous Panama Canal. Continue to the Caribbean islands of Bocas del Toro, rich in marine life and relaxed island atmosphere. Cross into Costa Rica to discover the beaches and bohemian spirit of Puerto Viejo, the lush rainforest of Sarapiquí, and the volcanic landscapes and hot springs of Arenal, finishing in the capital, San José. Enjoy wildlife, coastal scenery, and local traditions at a soft-adventure pace.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Panama City: Discover the modern capital and visit the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal, watching imposing cargo ships and cruise vessels transit between oceans while learning about this engineering masterpiece in the on-site museum.
Bocas del Toro: Sail through turquoise waters to spot wild dolphins and sloths, snorkel in Coral Cay’s coral gardens full of tropical fish, and relax on the white-sand beaches and clear waters of Cayo Zapatilla in Bastimentos National Marine Park.
Puerto Viejo: Enjoy the Costa Rican Caribbean’s laid-back beaches, bohemian ambience, and Afro-Caribbean cuisine.
Sarapiquí: Stay in a rainforest region and join a guided night walk in the Tirimbina Biological Reserve, observing frogs, insects, bats, reptiles, and the unique sounds of the tropical forest after dark.
Arenal: Travel to the iconic Arenal Volcano area, known for its hot springs, forests, and outdoor adventures.
Día 1: ARRIVAL PANAMA CITY
Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport, a private shuttle will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the city center. The rest of the day is free to rest after your journey or start exploring Panama City at your own pace.
Overnight in Panama City.
Día 2: PANAMA CITY: PANAMA CANAL & MIRAFLORES LOCKS
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day excursion to the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal, one of the most important engineering landmarks in the world. From the observation terraces, watch the transit of large cargo ships and cruise vessels as they rise or descend between oceans through the lock system. Visit the Panama Canal Museum at Miraflores, where interactive exhibits and audiovisual presentations explain the history, construction, expansion, and global relevance of the Canal. The afternoon is free to continue exploring Panama City, strolling through Casco Viejo, enjoying local coffee, or relaxing at the hotel.
Overnight in Panama City.
Día 3: PANAMA CITY – BOCAS DEL TORO (1 hr by flight, included)
Transfer from the hotel to the local airstrip to board a domestic flight to Bocas del Toro. Upon arrival, transfer by land to the hotel, where you will spend three nights in a relaxed Caribbean setting.
Overnight in Bocas del Toro.
Día 4: BOCAS DEL TORO: DOLPHIN, SLOTH & SNORKELING TOUR
Begin the day in a bay frequented by dolphins, observing these fascinating animals in freedom while respecting responsible ecotourism guidelines. Continue to a mangrove area where sloths live, spotting them quietly resting among the branches. The tour then visits Coral Cay, one of Bocas del Toro’s best snorkeling sites, where you can swim among coral gardens and colorful tropical fish. There will be a stop for lunch in a typical restaurant built on stilts over the sea (meal not included). In the afternoon, arrive at Cayo Zapatilla, one of the most beautiful islands in Bastimentos National Marine Park, with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and trails perfect for exploring or relaxing.
Overnight in Bocas del Toro.
Día 5: BOCAS DEL TORO
Free day to enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere at your own pace: rent a bicycle, visit nearby beaches, or simply relax in front of the sea.
Overnight in Bocas del Toro.
Día 6: BOCAS DEL TORO – PUERTO VIEJO (100km – 3.5hrs by road / 0.5hrs by boat)
This morning, walk approximately 150 meters to the representative’s office to begin your journey to Costa Rica. Take a combined transfer that includes a boat ride followed by an overland drive to reach Puerto Viejo de Limón. Arrive at the border, where the local team will assist you throughout the immigration process to ensure a comfortable, agile, and safe crossing. You will need to pay the Costa Rica entry tax (in cash). Upon arrival in Puerto Viejo, enjoy the hotel facilities and services.
Overnight in Puerto Viejo.
Día 7: PUERTO VIEJO
Day at leisure to enjoy the Costa Rican Caribbean, its beaches, bohemian atmosphere, and Afro-Caribbean cuisine. Optional tours are available in the area (not included).
Overnight in Puerto Viejo.
Día 8: PUERTO VIEJO – SARAPIQUI (190km – 4hrs)
At the agreed time, take a shared transfer to the Sarapiquí area, where the rainforest is the main attraction. In the evening, enjoy a night walk in the Tirimbina Biological Reserve. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, discover how the forest comes to life at dusk, revealing tree and poison dart frogs, insects, arachnids, reptiles, bats, resting birds, and the natural symphony of the tropical night.
Overnight in Sarapiquí.
Día 9: SARAPIQUI – ARENAL (100km – 2.5hrs)
At the agreed time, transfer to the Arenal region, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano and known for its hot springs, forests, and natural adventures. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the hotel facilities and surrounding nature.
Overnight in Arenal.
Día 10: ARENAL
Free day to enjoy the Arenal area at your own pace or book one of the optional activities available locally, such as nature walks or adventure excursions (not included).
Overnight in Arenal.
Día 11: ARENAL – SAN JOSÉ (130km – 3hrs)
At the agreed time, transfer from the Arenal region to San José. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the city.
Overnight in San José.
Día 12: SAN JOSÉ DEPARTURE
At the agreed time, transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport for your return flight.
We recommend bringing light, waterproof, and quick-drying clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and outdoor activities. Biodegradable sunscreen and eco-friendly insect repellent to minimize environmental impact. Cash in US dollars for small expenses, especially at the border crossing.