Inspiration

Panama & Portobelo

From the vibrant streets of Panama City to the serene shores of Isla Palenque, this journey reveals a country of contrasts — where culture, nature, and barefoot luxury blend seamlessly. Explore colonial charm, indigenous heritage, and untouched tropical beauty in one unforgettable escape.

Get to know Panama

A vibrant blend of tropical beauty and cosmopolitan energy, Panama is a country where worlds collide — quite literally. Its sleek, modern capital dazzles with a skyline of glass towers set against the shimmering Pacific, while just steps away, the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo whisper tales of colonial history, art, and rhythm. Beyond the city, Panama reveals its wild heart: cloud forests alive with birdsong, untouched islands fringed by turquoise waters, and Indigenous communities preserving traditions older than the canal itself. From the legendary Panama Canal — a masterpiece of human ingenuity — to the serene shores of Isla Palenque, this slender bridge between oceans offers travelers a taste of connection, contrast, and pure discovery.

Best Time to Travel

Year round

Amount of time to spend

8 days to 3 weeks

Inspiration Highlights

  
You will have the opportunity to meet some of the loudest monkeys on the planet.

Visit the 17th-century Fort San Jerónimo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival to Tocumen International Airport

Upon arrival, your private guide will meet you at the gate to assist you through a special speedy immigration line. Transfer to your hotel. After check in, you will embark on a Casco Viejo discovery, stopping at a local shop specializing in the production of chocolate made of 100% Panamanian Cacao to enjoy a delightful chocolate tasting
Day 2

Transfer to Portobelo + Embera + Drop off E l Otro Lado

Today, you ’ ll discover a world where rivers are roads and nature is sacred. The Emberá people, one of Panama ’ s Indigenous communities, will share their rich culture, deep traditions, and peaceful way of life. Enjoy a traditional native lunch be fore taking a boat to El Otro Lado, a private retreat set in the exceptional enclave of Portobelo Bay. This unique destination blends nature and culture with design and luxury, offering guests an authentic, exclusive, and tailor - made experience.
Day 3

Exploring Portobelo Bay.

Explore the rainforest in a wide variety of habitats around Portobelo and witness the incredible biodiversity that makes this location so unique.
Day 4

Caribbean vibes

Discover the caribbean be aches, embark on a boat to navigate across the tranquility of the Caribbean ocean embraced by the lush rainforest. Explore the surroundings while paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkeling or simply relaxing on the reefs.
Day 5

Portobelo – Boquete – Isla Palenque

After check out from the lodge, take your boat to the airport to flight to your next destination: Boquete, is situated between 1000 to 1800 meters above sea level, which creates a unique microclimate that combined with its volcanic soil pr oduces some of the best coffee in the world among other produce. You will visit family owned farm that produces fresh cheese daily in a small scale to supply the town. After exploring this town with its beautiful landscape and rich culture, you private gui de and driver will take you on a 90 minutes journey to the small fishing village of Boca Chica on Panama ’ s Pacific Coast. Upon arriving at the dock you will be welcomed by Isla Palenque's staff and take a 15 minute boat transfer to this private tropical isl and resort, a truly untouched tropical island experience
Day 6

Isla Palenque

Isla Palenque offers plenty of activities to explore the surroundings, admire the nature, and observe the animals that live in the area. Monkeys and Dolphins You will have the opportunity to meet some of the loudest monkeys on the planet. ITINERARIES PANAMA.docx You ’ ll almost certainly hear the howler monkeys at Isla Palenque before you see them. However, while you can hear their calls up to three miles away, spotting the howlers themselves c an be challenging. Delve into the trees with a guide who knows their favorite hangouts, and you might just be lucky enough to see them. During the afternoon, you will embark on a 2h30m boat navigation to enjoy a Dolphin Watching. This experience takes plac e in Bahía de los Muertos, where you will be able to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the mangroves. You will also have the opportunity to see turtles and different types of birds. During the tour, you will explore the area until you reach Paridas I sland, where you can enjoy the beauty of its beaches. Then you will visit Isla Gamez, a beautiful island with two white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Day 7

Kayak and Birdwatching

Isla Palenque ’ s northeast coast features two islets t hat shelter one of the island ’ s most enchanting natural attractions: a shallow sand - bottomed cave, home to a tiny species of insectivorous bat. Take an invigorating journey by kayak along the rocky coast to explore this incredible corner of the island. A few hours before sunset, explore the shores of Isla Palenque on a bird watching experience. With a pair of binoculars and an eagle - eyed guide, you will see frigate birds flying over the island, ibis hiding in the mangroves, parrots eating in the mangroves, parrots munching almonds in the treetops, and even a bird or two in the and even a woodpecker or two.waits.
Day 8

Transfer out + Flight home

Today, back to Panama City to take your flight home.