Departure date : February 14, 2027

Itinerary

Day 1 Montreal - Panama City (20 km)

Flight to Panama City. Arrival, transfer, and check-in at the hotel. Hotel Best Western Plus Panama Zen 3*

Day 2Panama City – Shores of Lake Gatun – Panama City (60 km)

Depart by coach toward Lake Gatun. Just a short distance from civilization lies the Emberá community, which still maintains its traditional lifestyle: palm and natural fiber dwellings, colorful garments, body paintings, and ritual dances. Travel by dugout canoe along the river where, with a bit of luck, you may spot various birds of prey (vultures, eagles, hawks) as well as exotic birds such as parrots, toucans, and kingfishers. Enjoy a musical welcome by the community, followed by a presentation of their traditional dances and body art made from the "jagua" fruit, and an introduction to their local crafts. A typical lunch of fish and plantains will be served. Throughout the day, you will discover their way of life and culture, living in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment. In the late afternoon, return to your hotel. (B-L-D)

Day 3Panama City - la Chorrera - El Valle de Anton (280 km)

Depart toward El Valle de Antón. Along the way, stop in the city of La Chorrera. Begin the day with a visit to a farm specializing in bromeliads, stunning tropical plants with vibrant colors and unique shapes. The tour continues to an exotic fruit and vegetable farm—a true Garden of Eden—where you will discover a wide variety of local crops, from passion fruit (maracuyá) to cassava (yuca) and dragon fruit (pitaya). Lunch in the heart of the farm. In the afternoon, the owners will invite you aboard a specially outfitted tractor to explore the orchards and learn about local farming techniques and the culinary uses of these tropical treasures. Continue to El Valle de Antón for hotel check-in. At nightfall, set off on an immersive night walk to discover the elusive wildlife—reptiles, amphibians, and insects—that awakens in this tropical ecosystem, accompanied by a local naturalist guide. Dinner at the hotel. Hotel The Golden Frog Inn 3* (B-L-D)

Day 4El Valle de Anton – San Miguel – Azuero Peninsula (172 km)

Depart toward San Miguel, a village nestled in the heart of the mountains. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the Cucua community, which preserves an ancestral way of life in harmony with nature. This encounter offers a chance to discover their traditional crafts (woven items, wood carvings) and dive into their musical heritage. You will witness the Cucua dance, a folkloric tradition passed down for over 100 years, featuring dancers in costumes made from natural materials. Finally, enjoy artisanal coffee grown and roasted on-site using traditional methods. Transfer to the Azuero Peninsula, the cradle of Panamanian folklore, famous for its vibrant festivals and iconic polleras (traditional dresses). Upon arrival, check-in and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Cubita Resort 3* (B-L-D)

Day 5Azuero Peninsula (25 km)

Depart with your guide to the heroic city of Los Santos, the heart of Panamanian traditions. Discover the Cerro Juan Díaz archaeological site, one of the region's most significant landmarks, showcasing over 2,200 years of Pre-Columbian history. Continue with a visit to the Museum of Festivals and Traditions, located in the village where the independence movement began. Your immersion continues at an authentic educational farm: feed the animals, explore the fields, and taste freshly harvested seasonal products. Next, enjoy a hands-on cooking workshop to prepare local specialties such as carimañolas and cocadas. Lunch will be served at the farm, featuring a Santeño Carnival show: admire the queens' costumes and dance to the rhythm of the murga. Finally, join an artisanal chocolate workshop to learn about the cocoa-making process and create your own chocolates. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon for dinner. (B-L-D)

Day 6Azuero Peninsula – Gulf of Montijo – Santa Catalina (210 km)

Discover the Gulf of Montijo from Puerto Munis, a natural sanctuary of mangroves and islets. While sailing you may have the chance to spot dolphins or turtles in their natural habitat. Weather permitting, a stop at the beaches of Tres Islas will offer a moment of relaxation. The excursion continues with a meeting with the Aventureras du Golfo de Montijo, a group of inspiring fisherwomen. Share a moment of their daily life and learn how their expertise drives their community forward. Traditional lunch featuring the catch of the day on Isla Leones. In the afternoon, transfer back to the pier and drive to Santa Catalina, a laid-back fishing village and the gateway to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage marine gem. Upon arrival, check-in and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Bambuda Santa Catalina 3* (B-L-D)

Day 7Santa Catalina – Isla Coiba

Depart for Coiba National Park, a stunning marine jewel of the Panamanian Pacific. Often called the "Galapagos of Panama," this 38-island archipelago is home to humpback whales, whale sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Setting out from Santa Catalina, explore four of the park's islands. Three snorkeling stops will allow you to dive into a literal natural aquarium to observe reef sharks and a multitude of tropical fish. Next, stop at the main island of Coiba, home to the ranger station, for a short hike to a panoramic viewpoint. Picnic lunch on-site. You will also discover Ranchería Island (Coibita), renowned for its beautiful white-sand beaches and a small river where you can safely spot crocodiles. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon for dinner. (B-L-D)

Day 8Santa Catalina – David – Boquete (330 km)

Depart for the province of Chiriquí in western Panama. This thriving agricultural region is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from fertile plains to the Barú Volcano, the country's highest point. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring, weather permitting, stunning views of the volcano. After the meal, experience local traditions with a Panamanian rum tasting. Learn about the aging process and the distinctive aromas of these local spirits. In the afternoon, continue to Boquete, a charming mountain village famous for its cool climate and world-renowned coffee plantations. Arrival, check-in, and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Ladera 3* (B-L-D)

Day 9Boquete (25 km)

Set off with your guide for a 3-hour hike (6 km) on the Pipeline Trail, one of Boquete’s most beautiful routes. This easy-to-moderate walk immerses you in a lush mountain forest at the foot of the Barú Volcano. You will admire ancient trees and unique tropical flora before reaching a hidden waterfall. Return to Boquete for lunch in the heart of the village. In the afternoon, discover Finca La Milagrosa, an award-winning coffee plantation. You will explore every stage of production, from harvesting to roasting. This estate is truly unique thanks to the ingenuity of its owner, Don Alfredo, who designed and built most of the machinery himself. In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner. (B-L-D)

Day 10Boquete – Bocas del Toro (180 km)

Depart toward the Caribbean Sea. Along the way, stop at the Ngäbe indigenous community of Silico Creek – Urari. This village of traditional ranchos nestled near the jungle offers a unique immersion into the culture of Panama's largest ethnic group. You will discover the stages of cocoa cultivation, from harvesting to traditional roasting over a wood fire. Participate in the manual grinding of the beans and learn about the symbolic importance of this "brown gold" to the locals. Typical lunch prepared by the village women before heading to the Almirante pier. Take a speedboat to Isla Colón, the main island of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. This archipelago, where Christopher Columbus stopped in 1502, is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Arrival, check-in, and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Bambuda Bocas Town 3* (B-L-D)

Day 11Bocas del Toro

In the morning, set off with your guide for an unforgettable day discovering Cayo Zapatilla, one of the archipelago's greatest treasures. This paradisiacal islet, located within the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, enchants visitors with its white-sand beaches and translucent waters. Your adventure begins with dolphin watching, followed by a stop at Sloth Island to spot sloths in their natural habitat. Continue with a snorkeling session at Cayo Coral, an underwater gem home to a stunning variety of tropical fish. Lunch on-site. The afternoon is dedicated to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Cayo Zapatilla. Stroll along the untouched sand or explore the island's wild trails for a moment of absolute serenity. At the end of the day, return by boat to Isla Colón, followed by a short walk back to your hotel. (B-L-D)

Day 12Bocas del Toro – Panama City – Gamboa (50 km)

Depart in the early morning for the Bocas del Toro airport for your flight to Panama City. Upon arrival, transfer to the historic district of Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area, where colonial facades meet lively terraces, will immerse you in Panama's history. Lunch at a local restaurant. After the meal, continue your walking tour of its architectural treasures: San José Church and its famous golden altar, Plaza de Francia with its view of the modern skyline, and Plaza Bolívar. In the late afternoon, transfer to Gamboa. Located along the Panama Canal, this historic 1930s village is now a prime spot for tropical wildlife spotting, thanks to its proximity to Soberanía National Park. Arrival, check-in, and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Gamboa Rainforest Resort 3* (B-L-D)

Day 13Gamboa – Panama City – Montreal (70 km)

Depart in the early morning for the Gamboa pier to dive into the lush tropical surroundings. Board a lancha (speedboat) for an excursion on the Canal and Lake Gatun, surrounded by verdant islands. Your journey will bring you close to exceptional wildlife, including capuchin and howler monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and toucans. Return to the hotel for lunch. Afterward, transfer to the Miraflores Locks. One of the Panama Canal's three sets of locks, they are located just 10 minutes from the capital. A visitor center is available for you to admire and understand this 20th-century engineering marvel. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Montreal. (B-L)

CAA-Quebec Travel : 1-844-869-2439
Print date : June 1st 2026 (The price shown was accurate at the time of printing. Subject to availability.)
Tour
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PanamaTropical Encounters

  • 13 days
  • 12 nights
  • 35 meals

Immerse yourself in a fascinating destination where the modernity of Panama City meets the ancestral traditions of the Emberá and Ngäbe communities. This captivating journey takes you from the lush mountains of Boquete to the crystal-clear waters of Isla Coiba, a true natural aquarium in the Pacific. From navigating the legendary Panama Canal to a paradisiacal escape in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, you will experience a rare diversity, blending untamed nature, authentic human encounters, and absolute relaxation on dream beaches.

Cities on itinerary:

Panama City, Boquete, Bocas del Toro, La Chorrera, David, Gamboa

  • Moderate
  • CAA-Quebec host

Highlights:

  • Immersive night walk in the heart of El Valle de Antón
  • Encounters with local ethnic groups
  • Coiba National Park, marine jewel of the Panamanian Pacific
  • Culinary workshop in an educational farm

Itinerary

Day 1 Montreal - Panama City (20 km)

Flight to Panama City. Arrival, transfer, and check-in at the hotel. Hotel Best Western Plus Panama Zen 3*

Day 2Panama City – Shores of Lake Gatun – Panama City (60 km)

Depart by coach toward Lake Gatun. Just a short distance from civilization lies the Emberá community, which still maintains its traditional lifestyle: palm and natural fiber dwellings, colorful garments, body paintings, and ritual dances. Travel by dugout canoe along the river where, with a bit of luck, you may spot various birds of prey (vultures, eagles, hawks) as well as exotic birds such as parrots, toucans, and kingfishers. Enjoy a musical welcome by the community, followed by a presentation of their traditional dances and body art made from the "jagua" fruit, and an introduction to their local crafts. A typical lunch of fish and plantains will be served. Throughout the day, you will discover their way of life and culture, living in perfect harmony with the surrounding environment. In the late afternoon, return to your hotel. (B-L-D)

Day 3Panama City - la Chorrera - El Valle de Anton (280 km)

Depart toward El Valle de Antón. Along the way, stop in the city of La Chorrera. Begin the day with a visit to a farm specializing in bromeliads, stunning tropical plants with vibrant colors and unique shapes. The tour continues to an exotic fruit and vegetable farm—a true Garden of Eden—where you will discover a wide variety of local crops, from passion fruit (maracuyá) to cassava (yuca) and dragon fruit (pitaya). Lunch in the heart of the farm. In the afternoon, the owners will invite you aboard a specially outfitted tractor to explore the orchards and learn about local farming techniques and the culinary uses of these tropical treasures. Continue to El Valle de Antón for hotel check-in. At nightfall, set off on an immersive night walk to discover the elusive wildlife—reptiles, amphibians, and insects—that awakens in this tropical ecosystem, accompanied by a local naturalist guide. Dinner at the hotel. Hotel The Golden Frog Inn 3* (B-L-D)

Day 4El Valle de Anton – San Miguel – Azuero Peninsula (172 km)

Depart toward San Miguel, a village nestled in the heart of the mountains. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the Cucua community, which preserves an ancestral way of life in harmony with nature. This encounter offers a chance to discover their traditional crafts (woven items, wood carvings) and dive into their musical heritage. You will witness the Cucua dance, a folkloric tradition passed down for over 100 years, featuring dancers in costumes made from natural materials. Finally, enjoy artisanal coffee grown and roasted on-site using traditional methods. Transfer to the Azuero Peninsula, the cradle of Panamanian folklore, famous for its vibrant festivals and iconic polleras (traditional dresses). Upon arrival, check-in and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Cubita Resort 3* (B-L-D)

Day 5Azuero Peninsula (25 km)

Depart with your guide to the heroic city of Los Santos, the heart of Panamanian traditions. Discover the Cerro Juan Díaz archaeological site, one of the region's most significant landmarks, showcasing over 2,200 years of Pre-Columbian history. Continue with a visit to the Museum of Festivals and Traditions, located in the village where the independence movement began. Your immersion continues at an authentic educational farm: feed the animals, explore the fields, and taste freshly harvested seasonal products. Next, enjoy a hands-on cooking workshop to prepare local specialties such as carimañolas and cocadas. Lunch will be served at the farm, featuring a Santeño Carnival show: admire the queens' costumes and dance to the rhythm of the murga. Finally, join an artisanal chocolate workshop to learn about the cocoa-making process and create your own chocolates. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon for dinner. (B-L-D)

Day 6Azuero Peninsula – Gulf of Montijo – Santa Catalina (210 km)

Discover the Gulf of Montijo from Puerto Munis, a natural sanctuary of mangroves and islets. While sailing you may have the chance to spot dolphins or turtles in their natural habitat. Weather permitting, a stop at the beaches of Tres Islas will offer a moment of relaxation. The excursion continues with a meeting with the Aventureras du Golfo de Montijo, a group of inspiring fisherwomen. Share a moment of their daily life and learn how their expertise drives their community forward. Traditional lunch featuring the catch of the day on Isla Leones. In the afternoon, transfer back to the pier and drive to Santa Catalina, a laid-back fishing village and the gateway to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage marine gem. Upon arrival, check-in and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Bambuda Santa Catalina 3* (B-L-D)

Day 7Santa Catalina – Isla Coiba

Depart for Coiba National Park, a stunning marine jewel of the Panamanian Pacific. Often called the "Galapagos of Panama," this 38-island archipelago is home to humpback whales, whale sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Setting out from Santa Catalina, explore four of the park's islands. Three snorkeling stops will allow you to dive into a literal natural aquarium to observe reef sharks and a multitude of tropical fish. Next, stop at the main island of Coiba, home to the ranger station, for a short hike to a panoramic viewpoint. Picnic lunch on-site. You will also discover Ranchería Island (Coibita), renowned for its beautiful white-sand beaches and a small river where you can safely spot crocodiles. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon for dinner. (B-L-D)

Day 8Santa Catalina – David – Boquete (330 km)

Depart for the province of Chiriquí in western Panama. This thriving agricultural region is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from fertile plains to the Barú Volcano, the country's highest point. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring, weather permitting, stunning views of the volcano. After the meal, experience local traditions with a Panamanian rum tasting. Learn about the aging process and the distinctive aromas of these local spirits. In the afternoon, continue to Boquete, a charming mountain village famous for its cool climate and world-renowned coffee plantations. Arrival, check-in, and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Ladera 3* (B-L-D)

Day 9Boquete (25 km)

Set off with your guide for a 3-hour hike (6 km) on the Pipeline Trail, one of Boquete’s most beautiful routes. This easy-to-moderate walk immerses you in a lush mountain forest at the foot of the Barú Volcano. You will admire ancient trees and unique tropical flora before reaching a hidden waterfall. Return to Boquete for lunch in the heart of the village. In the afternoon, discover Finca La Milagrosa, an award-winning coffee plantation. You will explore every stage of production, from harvesting to roasting. This estate is truly unique thanks to the ingenuity of its owner, Don Alfredo, who designed and built most of the machinery himself. In the late afternoon, return to the hotel for dinner. (B-L-D)

Day 10Boquete – Bocas del Toro (180 km)

Depart toward the Caribbean Sea. Along the way, stop at the Ngäbe indigenous community of Silico Creek – Urari. This village of traditional ranchos nestled near the jungle offers a unique immersion into the culture of Panama's largest ethnic group. You will discover the stages of cocoa cultivation, from harvesting to traditional roasting over a wood fire. Participate in the manual grinding of the beans and learn about the symbolic importance of this "brown gold" to the locals. Typical lunch prepared by the village women before heading to the Almirante pier. Take a speedboat to Isla Colón, the main island of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. This archipelago, where Christopher Columbus stopped in 1502, is famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Arrival, check-in, and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Bambuda Bocas Town 3* (B-L-D)

Day 11Bocas del Toro

In the morning, set off with your guide for an unforgettable day discovering Cayo Zapatilla, one of the archipelago's greatest treasures. This paradisiacal islet, located within the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, enchants visitors with its white-sand beaches and translucent waters. Your adventure begins with dolphin watching, followed by a stop at Sloth Island to spot sloths in their natural habitat. Continue with a snorkeling session at Cayo Coral, an underwater gem home to a stunning variety of tropical fish. Lunch on-site. The afternoon is dedicated to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Cayo Zapatilla. Stroll along the untouched sand or explore the island's wild trails for a moment of absolute serenity. At the end of the day, return by boat to Isla Colón, followed by a short walk back to your hotel. (B-L-D)

Day 12Bocas del Toro – Panama City – Gamboa (50 km)

Depart in the early morning for the Bocas del Toro airport for your flight to Panama City. Upon arrival, transfer to the historic district of Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area, where colonial facades meet lively terraces, will immerse you in Panama's history. Lunch at a local restaurant. After the meal, continue your walking tour of its architectural treasures: San José Church and its famous golden altar, Plaza de Francia with its view of the modern skyline, and Plaza Bolívar. In the late afternoon, transfer to Gamboa. Located along the Panama Canal, this historic 1930s village is now a prime spot for tropical wildlife spotting, thanks to its proximity to Soberanía National Park. Arrival, check-in, and dinner at the hotel. Hotel Gamboa Rainforest Resort 3* (B-L-D)

Day 13Gamboa – Panama City – Montreal (70 km)

Depart in the early morning for the Gamboa pier to dive into the lush tropical surroundings. Board a lancha (speedboat) for an excursion on the Canal and Lake Gatun, surrounded by verdant islands. Your journey will bring you close to exceptional wildlife, including capuchin and howler monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and toucans. Return to the hotel for lunch. Afterward, transfer to the Miraflores Locks. One of the Panama Canal's three sets of locks, they are located just 10 minutes from the capital. A visitor center is available for you to admire and understand this 20th-century engineering marvel. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Montreal. (B-L)

Inclusions

  • Montreal - Panama round-trip flight

  • Bocas del Toro - Panama City domestic flight

  • Transportation by tour bus

  • Transfers

  • 12 nights in 3* accommodations

  • French-speaking CAA-Quebec host

  • Services of French-speaking tour guides

  • Tours, excursions, and activities listed in the itinerary

  • Water refill available on every excursion (water bottle not provided)

  • Tourist taxes

  • Travel guidebook

  • Airline taxes

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal expenses

  • Baggage handling

  • Anything not listed in the “Price includes” section

  • CFCTA if applicable

Inclusions

  • Montreal - Panama round-trip flight

  • Bocas del Toro - Panama City domestic flight

  • Transportation by tour bus

  • Transfers

  • 12 nights in 3* accommodations

  • French-speaking CAA-Quebec host

  • Services of French-speaking tour guides

  • Tours, excursions, and activities listed in the itinerary

  • Water refill available on every excursion (water bottle not provided)

  • Tourist taxes

  • Travel guidebook

  • Airline taxes

  • Travel insurance

  • Personal expenses

  • Baggage handling

  • Anything not listed in the “Price includes” section

  • CFCTA if applicable

Get the right coverage with CAA-Quebec Travel Insurance

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Price from$7,624

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For personalized assistance, call 1-844-869-2439 or email us.

Our exclusive group tours are designed to ensure an enriching, friendly, and fuss-free experience:

  • French-speaking tour host
  • Generous inclusions and exclusive excursions
  • Members earn CAA Dollars back
  • 15% back in CAA Dollars at the Boutique
  • Rewards for loyal travellers

Rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The accommodation establishments listed may be changed without prior notice. Please note that group flight contracts do not allow for seat selection. We therefore recommend that you check in with the airlines 24 hours before departure. This offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Read the full terms and conditions.

If the scheduled flight is operated by Air France or KLM, only the Air France/KLM shuttle bus service will be available for passengers departing from Québec City.