SIGNATURE PANAMA

SIGNATURE PANAMA

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Overview & Key Highlights

Discover the ultimate tropical escape with our Signature Panama tour, a journey that blends pristine Caribbean beaches with the lush, untamed beauty of the Pacific coast. From the vibrant indigenous cultures of the Emberá people to the misty coffee highlands of Boquete and the wildlife-rich waters of the Panama Canal, this itinerary offers an authentic and luxurious exploration of Central America's hidden gem.

Whether you are seeking adrenaline-filled adventures in the rainforest or a tranquil retreat on deserted islands, Panama delivers an unparalleled experience for every traveler. Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems and rich heritage that make this destination a world-class choice for your next unforgettable holiday.

Isla Palenque, Boca Chica

Scenic view of Isla Palenque in Boca Chica
Isla Palenque, Boca Chica

Emberá Community Visit

Panamanian culture is inherently tied to its indigenous communities. The Emberá people, who comprise more than 30,000 in Panama, were traditionally rainforest dwellers who lived in settlements along the Chagres River. Learn more about the native Emberá, including their traditional food, language, ceremonial dance and music, crafts (they’re primarily known for intricate basket-making and carved statues) and more, on a guided tour of their riverfront villages.

Emberá musicians performing traditional music
Embera Musicians

Gatun Lake

Gamboa Rainforest Resort is tucked deep in the mystical Soberanía National Park at the meeting place of the Chagres River and the Panama Canal. The thick rainforest that hugs the shoreline provides water for Gatun Lake, which provides water for the canal locks. Therefore and therefore the canal authorities are keen to keep deforestation at bay. This is good news for eco-travelers and animal lovers; wildlife sightings are common in the rainforest. Catch a glimpse of monkeys such as white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, and Geoffrey's tamarins up-close and in their natural habitat. Expect to see sloths, crocodiles, caimans, turtles, and even capybaras, the world's giant rodents.

Boquete

Boquete is buried deep in the rainforest, in between several mountains and close to Baru Volcano. The landscape is stunning, with the river winds through the forest in cascading rapids and waterfalls. For the more active, you can zipline, ride ATVs, mountain bike, and hike to waterfalls, volcanos, mountains and more. The volcanic ash that enriches the soil around Boquete makes it the perfect place to grow coffee. The cool mountain air that has attracted many expatriates to the Boquete area is also excellent for coffee plants. Several coffee plantations in the Boquete area allow visitors onto their farms to see first-hand how coffee is grown, harvested, and processed.

Lush landscape of Boquete highlands
Boquete

Boca Chica

Boca Chica is close to the Costa Rica border; Boca Chica is a secluded tropical beach with lots of wildlife and a laid-back lifestyle with friendly local people and excellent cuisine, making it a fabulous destination to visit and explore. There several islands in the National Marine Park are National Marine Park located just off the mainland. Here you can see a more authentic and low-key island area of Panama, where the local economy relies on fishing, agriculture, ranching and tourism. Life here revolves around water activities and has a chilled-out vibe. In Boca Brava, six indigenous families are living on the island. Howler monkeys are just a stone- throw away, and their unbelievably loud yells are amplified by a particular bone they have in their throats. An abundance of wildlife in the region will allow you to see various birds, including parrots and macaws, which offer the perfect chorus each morning.

Tropical beach view in Boca Chica
Boca Chica

Panama makes for the perfect holiday destination with idyllic islands, rolling surf, untamed nature and showstopping wildlife, Panama makes for the ideal holiday destination. Book your Signature Panama with Va Expeditions here!

Gamboa Rainforest Resort surroundings
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Claire Dean
Written By

Claire Dean

Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!
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