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    Island to City: Bocas del Toro & Panama

    Panama in 7 Days, 6 Nights in Destination

    Valentine, Travel Expert

    Valentine
    Travel crafter

    Travel to Panamanian paradise, where you’ll discover industrial ingenuity at the famous canal, wander historic cobblestone streets, and swim in crystal-clear waters.

    Trip Highlights

    1. map-pin-check-icon
      Bocas del toro
    2. map-pin-check-icon
      Panama Canal
    3. map-pin-check-icon
      Panama city

    Included

    1. All flights

    2. Accommodation

    3. All transfers

    4. Activities

    5. Breakfast only

    Availability

    1. Departures available until October 2026

    2. Available Group tours

    3. Solo travelers available

    4. Add up to 5 nights to your stay

    5. WHAT'S THIS?

    Categories available

    1. superior included

    2. luxury from + $650

    3. WHAT'S THIS?
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    Earn a reward of up to $500!

    Book by July 24.

    More info

    From

    $2,699

    $1,749

    /person

    -35%

    Book with an expert:

    1-888-488-0592

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    Exoticca is a member of ASTA

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    Best Price Guarantee

    SmartFare has secured the lowest fares on flights & services for this trip

    Itinerary

    Discover the best of Panama on this city and island adventure. Learn about the iconic Panama Canal and see the stunning natural beauty around it. Walk through Panama City’s historic Casco Viejo. Then fly to Bocas del Toro to explore vibrant coral reefs and unwind on the white sands of Cayo Zapatilla, a tropical haven in Caribbean waters.

    1st Day: US - Panama City

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    Arrive at your US departure airport for your flight* to Panama City, ready to start your adventure through diverse landscapes, a cosmopolitan capital, and island life.

    Arrival at Tocumen International Airport in Panama** and transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay in Panama City.

    *If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.), you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

    **The driver will be there to greet you, holding a sign with your name and the Exoticca logo.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Victoria Hotel and Suites... or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    562 Reviews

    See our full selection

    2nd Day: Panama City

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Then, set off to visit the iconic Panama Canal and the historic district of Casco Viejo.

    Considered an engineering marvel and often called the eighth wonder of the world, the canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Its massive gates and lock system allow ships to pass through different sea levels—an unforgettable sight. As well as seeing the Miraflores Locks, you might even spot toucans or wild monkeys in the surrounding rainforest, especially on our optional Gatun Lake boat tour.*

    Next, enjoy a walking tour of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO-listed gem and the cultural heart of Panama City. Stroll along 17th-century cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, lively plazas, and historic churches. Highlights include Panama Cathedral, Santo Domingo Convent, and vibrant squares surrounded by cafés, galleries, and museums. This old-meets-new neighborhood is also one of the city’s trendiest spots.

    The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Overnight stay in Panama City.

    Please note: The order of visits may vary depending on ship traffic, the season, or weather conditions.

    *Optional Gatun Lake Boat Tour: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Gatun Lake—the vast, man-made lake that forms the central section of this famous waterway. Keep an eye out for tropical wildlife such as capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths, and crocodiles as you explore some of the islands within this protected area. It could also be a unique chance to see a cargo ship navigating the canal up close!

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Victoria Hotel and Suites... or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    562 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Guided Walk of Casco Viejo

    Light

    See more
    included
    Visit to the Panama Canal

    Moderate

    See more
    Optional
    Boat trip on Gatun Lake

    Light

    See more

    3rd Day: Panama City - Bocas del Toro

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Then, transfer to Albrook Domestic Airport to catch your flight* to Bocas del Toro.

    Arrive in Bocas Town and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore—whether discovering local island life, visiting crystal-clear beaches, or diving into our optional bioluminescence tour** for a unique nighttime experience. Overnight stay in Bocas del Toro.

    *Each passenger is allowed one checked bag up to 23 kg and one piece of hand luggage up to 4 kg (without wheels).

    **Optional Bioluminescence Tour: Once it’s nightfall, prepare for a magical, unique visual experience. Take a boat trip in Caribbean waters and watch as even the slightest movement illuminates thousands of microorganisms in the dark. With our expert guides who know all the secret spots, you’ll be in good hands.

    Please note: the bioluminescence tour is only offered during the new moon.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Divers Paradise or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    219 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Bioluminescence Tour

    Light

    See more

    4th Day: Bocas del Toro

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today is full of marine life and coastal beauty on a tour to Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay, and Zapatilla Cay.

    Arrive at the tranquil Dolphin Bay, where, if you are lucky, you will observe wild dolphins in their natural habitat and feel at peace surrounded by mangroves and rainforest. You’ll then continue to Coral Cay for a snorkeling adventure to remember, swimming among colorful coral gardens. Finally, visit Zapatilla Cay, known for its pristine beaches and wildlife. During the tour, there’ll be a stop for lunch at a restaurant built over the sea.

    After an eventful and memorable day of immersing yourself in paradise, spend the rest of the afternoon at your own pace. Overnight stay in Bocas del Toro.

    Please note: The order of stops may vary depending on weather, season, or group demand. Lunch is not included (approx. $12–$20 per person), but you’re welcome to bring your own if preferred.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Divers Paradise or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    219 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay & Zapatilla Cay Tour

    Moderate

    See more

    5th Day: Bocas del Toro

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a free day to explore Bocas del Toro at your own pace. We also recommend joining one of our optional tours, such as a visit to a cacao plantation* or a tour that includes Bird Island, Boca del Drago and Starfish Beach.** Overnight stay in Bocas del Toro.

    *Optional Traditional Cacao Tour: In a charming Ngäbe village, dive into the world of cacao and watch it transform into delicious chocolate. Experience every centuries-old step—from harvesting and chocolate-making to the best part: tasting! Enjoy a scenic hike through cacao trees, lend a hand in the chocolate-making process, and finish with a traditional lunch.

    **Optional Visit to Bird Island, Boca del Drago & Starfish Beach: Birdwatching and coastal beauty take center stage on this unforgettable adventure. Explore the northern tip of Isla Colón, beginning with Bird Island—an offshore islet and a haven for year-round birdwatching. Next, stroll through Boca del Drago for sweeping views of the Caribbean waters. Finish your tour at Starfish Beach, an idyllic spot perfect for swimming and relaxing.

    Please note: you can only choose one of the two optional activities.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Divers Paradise or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    219 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Traditional Cacao Tour

    Light

    See more
    Optional
    Visit to Bird Island, Boca del Drago & Starfish Beach

    Light

    See more

    6th Day: Bocas del Toro - Panama City

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    Breakfast at the hotel. It’s time to say goodbye to Bocas del Toro. You’ll transfer to the local airport for your flight back to Panama City.* Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day in the vibrant capital. To end your trip on a high note, we recommend our optional Panamanian dinner with traditional music and dance.** Overnight stay in Panama City.

    *Each passenger is allowed one checked bag up to 23 kg and one piece of hand luggage up to 4 kg (without wheels).

    *Optional Dinner with Panamanian Show: Taste authentic Panamanian cuisine while listening to musicians play the repicadores, pujadores, and güiro — all traditional instruments. The experience is a vibrant fusion of cultural elements, from dancers dressed in Panama’s national costume, the Pollera, to finely handcrafted hats and the rhythmic beat of the drum.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Victoria Hotel and Suites... or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    562 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Dinner with Panamanian Show

    Light

    See more

    7th Day: Panama City - US

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    Breakfast at the hotel*. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip.

    *Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

    Categories

    superior

    From $1,749

    Selected
    • Accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.
    check-icon
    luxury

    From $2,399

    • Accommodation in Luxury category hotels.

    Pick a date and start customising your trip

    Learn more

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    July 2025
    August 2025
    September 2025
    October 2025

    Included activities

    Included

    Guided Walk of Casco Viejo

    Included activity for day 2 in Panama city

    See the most emblematic places such as the Cathedral of Panama, Santo Domingo Convent and the National Theater. Admire the impressive Bolivar Palace and the Paseo Las Bóvedas overlooking the Bridge of the Americas.

    Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 09:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Visit to the Panama Canal

    Included activity for day 2 in Panama Canal

    Get up close to the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Visitor Center. Watch ships pass through the locks, learn how this engineering marvel works, and capture unforgettable photos.

    Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 07:30 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    Visitor Center closes at 4:00pm

    more information
    Included

    Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay & Zapatilla Cay Tour

    Included activity for day 4 in Bocas del toro

    Discover Dolphin Bay and spot wild dolphins, then explore vibrant coral gardens while snorkeling at Coral Cay. Finish by arriving at the pristine beaches of Zapatilla Cay, with a lunch stop overlooking the ocean.

    Duration 06:00h Approx. Pick up time: 10:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    Pick-up location and time may vary depending on the selected hotel. No specific order of site visits; subject to weather, season, and demand.

    more information

    Available Activities

    Activities are subject to availability. The price for each optional activity will be shown in the next step of the booking process.
    Optional

    Boat trip on Gatun Lake

    Suggested activity for day 2 in Panama city

    Take a scenic boat ride on Gatun Lake, part of the Panama Canal. Spot wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and toucans, and learn fascinating facts about the surrounding rainforest.

    Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Light

    It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, and binoculars.

    more information
    Optional

    Bioluminescence Tour

    Suggested activity for day 3 in Bocas del toro

    Hop aboard a small boat to experience bioluminescence in Bocas del Toro—a rare natural wonder where every movement in the water glows after dark.

    Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 19:30 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    This tour is offered only on new moon days. We recommend bringing: a towel, swimsuit, camera, dry clothes, and a sweater (it can get quite cold at night). Pick up at hotel dock (depending on the reserved hotel).

    more information
    Optional

    Traditional Cacao Tour

    Suggested activity for day 5 in Bocas del toro

    Discover cacao’s journey from bean to chocolate in a Ngäbe village. Go on a guided hike, enjoy hands-on chocolate making, and have a traditional lunch during this unique cultural experience.

    Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Light

    Schedules subject to availability and change.

    more information
    Optional

    Visit to Bird Island, Boca del Drago & Starfish Beach

    Suggested activity for day 5 in Bocas del toro

    Visit Bird Island, stroll Boca del Drago, and swim at Starfish Beach—all with time to relax and enjoy the view.

    Duration 06:00h Approx. Pick up time: 10:00 Approx

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information

    Show more

    The price includes

    • Departures from main US airports.
    • International flights: US - Panama City - US.
    • Internal flights: Panama City - Bocas del Toro; Bocas del Toro - Panama City.*
      more information
    • 6 nights accommodation in Charm & Superior category hotels.
      See hotels included
    • 6 breakfasts.
    • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
    • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary with an English-speaking guide.
      See itinerary
    • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
    • Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay & Zapatilla Cay Tour.
    • Visit to the Panama Canal and Guided Walk of Casco Viejo.
    • Bilingual English/Spanish guide during the activities.

    Not included

    Drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

    *Each passenger is allowed one checked bag up to 23 kg and one piece of hand luggage up to 4 kg (without wheels).

    Travel times in some areas may be longer due to factors like traffic, weather, or possible road closures that may occasionally cause delays.

    Hotels in Panama may differ from standards in Europe and the United States. They are often more traditional, set in natural surroundings, and offer a unique charm.

    This is an independent tour with guided shared activities, not an escorted group tour.

    Some activities may be guided by a bilingual guide (English and Spanish) who provides explanations in both languages, depending on the composition of the group.

    Any hotel mentioned in the offer, whether the main one or an alternative, is as likely as each other to be confirmed. You will find your final hotel confirmation on your updated trip summary approximately 15 days before departure.

    • Entry requirements

      Passport with a minimum of six months validity.

    • Visa

      No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days.

    • Currency

      US Dollar and Panamanian Balboa.

    • Language

      Spanish.

    • Electricity

      110 V. Adapter required.

    • Health

      Please consult your doctor regarding the vaccination against yellow fever and malaria prophylaxis. Travellers over 60 years must consult their doctor as the Yellow Fever vaccine can have serious side effects.

    • Time zone

      UTC - 05:00.

    • Tourist Office website

      www.visitcentroamerica.com

    Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline's website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

    Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

    In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or canceled without prior notice.

    If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +1 888-488-0592 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

    While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

    Pay in installments

    Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.

    Pay the rest in installments depending on your departure date

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