A Self-drive journey along Panama’s Pacific Wonders
This 18 day self-drive adventure takes you from Panama City’s buzz to the quieter corners of the Pacific, with a route that blends culture, coast and wilderness. You will begin in the capital, taking in the Panama Canal and the characterful streets of Casco Viejo, with plenty of chances to get to know the city’s food scene along the way.
From here, you pick up the keys and head out into the interior, trading city streets for fresh highland air in El Valle de Antón, then continuing to the Azuero Peninsula where craft traditions still shape everyday life. Time on the coast follows, including Isla Iguana’s soft sands and clear water, before the journey turns towards some of Panama’s most wildlife-rich marine and island settings.
The second half of the trip is all about nature at your own pace, from snorkelling in Coiba National Park to island hopping in the Gulf of Chiriquí. You then finish in the cooler hills around Boquete, where cloud forest trails, coffee farms and waterfalls round out the journey with a different side of Panama’s landscapes and traditions.
Visit several regions in Panama
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
See details in itinerary below
15 breakfasts, 5 lunches
What you'll experience
- Panama’s Pacific Coast islands: Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and relax on white sand beaches scattered along Panama’s Pacific coast.
- Geisha coffee in Boquete: Taste Panama’s celebrated Geisha coffee in the cool highlands of Boquete, learning about the growers and production behind its distinctive flavour.
- Azuero Peninsula artisans: Meet local artisans on the Azuero Peninsula and discover traditional crafts that reflect the region’s cultural heritage.
- Valle de Antón waterfalls: Hike through lush surroundings to reach beautiful waterfalls in the volcanic landscapes of Valle de Antón.
- Panama Canal: Marvel at the engineering of the Panama Canal and watch vast ships pass through this world-changing waterway.
- Rum and chocolate in Casco Viejo: Explore the flavours of Panama with a guided rum and chocolate experience in the historic streets of Casco Viejo.
What's Included
- International & domestic flights
- 15 nights’ accommodation as detailed
- 20 meals; 15 breakfasts, 5 lunches
- All tours as per itinerary
- Car hire with full insurance
- Transfers as per itinerary
Prices from £5,999 pp
Excludes:
- Meals not indicated in your itinerary.
- Local departure taxes payable locally.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc.
- Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary).
- Camera or video fees at any sites.
Quick Itinerary
Panama Self-Drive Adventure 18-day Itinerary
Days 1-3 UK - Panama City
Fly from the UK to Panama City, a bustling metropolis filled with history and unique experiences. Take a tour of the world-famous Panama Canal and discover the engineering complexities that make it possible at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Centre. From the Amador Causeway, take in the panoramic views of the city’s skyline and the entrance to the canal.
Historic Casco Antiguo has a mix of colonial, neoclassical and French architecture, where cobbled streets and charming plazas provide an insight into Panama City’s past. Experience the unique Pedro Mandinga Rum & Chocolate tasting, small batch local produce with a distinct essence of Panama.
Days 4-5 El Valle de Anton
Collect the car in the city and head out on the 2-hour drive towards El Valle de Anton. This beautiful region of Panama is delightful to explore, with streams, waterfalls, rainforest and natural pools. On the second day, a guided tour to Las Pailas Waterfall includes a short hike and a visit to a local craft market in the valley.
Days 6-8 Chitré & Azuero Peninsula
Drive to Chitré, the largest town on the Azuero Peninsula, known for its historic downtown and bustling local markets. Discover the cultural heart of Panama on a tour to La Enea de Guararé to observe the creation of the pollera – Panama’s elegant traditional dress. In La Arena and Parita, visit local artisans in their workshops creating sandals, masks for folk dancers, ceramics and drums, providing a unique insight into Panamanian history and culture.
Days 9-10 Santa Catalina, Coiba National Park
A 3-hour drive from Chitré lies Santa Catalina, a small fishing village which has become known as a world-class surf destination and is the gateway to Coiba National Park. Take a full day tour of Coiba, visiting 3 islands with beautiful beaches and wonderful snorkelling opportunities in waters teeming with marine life.
Days 11-12 The Gulf of Chiriquí
Continuing west, drive approximately 4-hours to Boca Chica in the Chiriquí Province. The Gulf of Chiriquí is a National Marine Park, with idyllic islands, reefs and mangoves. Visit beautiful Bolaños and Gámez Islands.
Days 13-15 Boquete
Head inland to Boquete, a charming town located in the mountains of West Panama. A lovely base from which to explore the coffee growing regions and various hiking trails around the base of Baru Volcano. A guided hike along the Pipeline trail in the Bajo Mono Forest offers the chance to spot the elusive quetzal bird and admire the lush foliage and beautiful views. A tour of a coffee farm on the slopes of the volcano reveals the secrets of this environmentally sustainable plantation growing various coffee varieties, including the prestigious Geisha.
Days 16-18 Panama City - UK
After dropping the car at David, you’ll fly back to Panama City for the final night in the city before your international flight back to the UK.
Speak to a dedicated Panama Travel Specialist today
All our Panama itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Panama Self Drive Adventure holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.
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