Pre-Summit Adventure 1

Expedition to the secrets of Playa Muerto in Darien National Park

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 3 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

*Important: This Pre-Adventure includes basic shared accommodation at Playa Muerto

A tour of the most remote and biodiverse area of ​​Panama, where you can learn about the culture and nature of the Emberá, live an authentic and genuine experience of its customs and traditions, as well as participate in adventure, sustainability and conservation activities.

This varied tourist experience involves trekking activities in primary tropical forest, sighting of exotic and exuberant fauna such as the elusive Harpy eagle (Panama's national bird), varied species of day and night monkeys, and sloths, in addition to the botanical biodiversity offered by the National Park. Darien.

The community offers experiences of artisanal fishing, dances, gastronomy, and native architecture, making this innovative experience a unique product that directly involves outdoor activities, cultural interaction, and environmental preservation.

Trip Highlights:

• Pipeline Road Hike & Jungle Boat Expedition to the Soberania Park in Panama City, The park boasts an impressive list of 525 species of birds.
• Begin the adventure in search of The Harpy Eagle, Panama’s National Bird and the most powerful bird of prey in the Americas.
• Mingle with the Embera people and learn about their customs and traditions.
• Get into the primary forest of the reserve. The emergent tree species here is the impressive Cuipo. You will hike a back trail in search of more flora and fauna.
• Learn about Panama and its traditional cuisine while preparing delicious dishes that you will get to enjoy at the end of a cooking class with a charming local chef.

Pre-Summit Adventure 2

Sail the Guna Yala Archipelago

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 2 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

The Guna Yala Archipelago (also known as San Blas) is a long, narrow strip of tropical paradise that spans 390 kilometers along Panama's Caribbean coast and has more than 300 spectacular islands with white sandy beaches and coral reefs. Explore the islands on a comfortable catamaran and enjoy an unforgettable experience!

Trip Highlights:

• Immerse yourself in a cultural experience and meet one of Panama’s seven indigenous tribes: the Embera. Learn about their customs, music, traditional clothing, handicrafts, and their way of living.
• Board a motorized piragua (dugout canoe) and travel up through the lush forest to the indigenous village. Along the river, you may be able to spot Little Blue and Green Heron, Great Egrets, Anhingas, Neotropical Cormorant, Amazon, Ringed, and Green Kingfishers, along with Keel-billed Toucans and Ospreys flying above.
• You will have a chance to be painted with the traditional jagua , a natural dye the Embera use to adorn their bodies and which serves as a natural mosquito repellent as part of their ancient natural medicine.
• Snorkel, swim, and visit idyllic uninhabited islands dotted with coconut palm trees, covered with white sand, and surrounded by spectacular coral reefs.
• Take the opportunity to visit the Guna in their local communities where you will learn about their customs and traditions. The Guna people are known throughout the world for their special weavings, the famous molas. You will be able to see how the women make the molas and purchase them from the hands of those who made them.
• visit to Miraflores Locks and the former Canal Zone, the Biodiversity Museum, and a historical walking tour in Casco Viejo.

Pre-Summit Adventure 3

Guna Yala & Chagres River

DAYS: 6
DIFFICULTY: 4 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 06 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

The Panama Canal needs fresh water to operate, and the Chagres River supplies it. You will explore the river from the mountain head water of Chagres River down to where it meets the Atlantic Ocean by hiking, rafting, and kayaking. Besides learning how the canal operates and why it is considered an ecological canal you will also learn about the Chagres River's importance in history since it was used as a transit route by the Spaniard conquistadors. 

The Chagres National Park, created to preserve the river watershed is also the habitat of Embera Tribes, natives that have adapted to live in jungles by rivers. We will visit them. 

Our other destination is the San Blas Archipelago at Guna Yala, with more than 350 islands spreading along the North East of the isthmus of Panama, the homeland of the Gunas. A paradise for kayaking and snorkeling. 

Gunas are well known for their molas, bright and colorful fabric panels, which they manufacture using the technique of reverse application, and use them on their female dresses. They are politically a nation within Panama, with their own language, culture, laws and territory.

 Trip Highlights:

• Chagres National Park and Guna Yala 
• Rafting and Sea kayaking 
• Jungle hiking and coral reef snorkeling 
• Embera and Guna Yala indigenous cultures 

Pre-Summit Adventure 4

Cruising into the Wild of Panama, Veraguas South Coast

DAYS: 6
DIFFICULTY: 2 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 06 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

Cruising into the Wild of Panama seeks to show you, from the depths, part of this small wild piece of land that transforms the world.

Living Indigenous Culture, traveling back in time a thousand years ago to meet Panama's Golden Warriors could be the lost city "El Dorado" from conquistadors' tales.

A journey continues to Coiba, a unique wilderness with large expanses of dense tropical wet jungle, miles of wild rivers, vibrant wildlife, and the most extensive, healthiest coral reef systems in Central America with UNESCO Natural World Heritage recognition.

You will embark to feed your soul by witnessing firsthand how local organizations, with the MarViva Foundation's support, Balaena, and travelers like you, have been supporting a network of local women leaders, known as "Las Aventureras," to empower their communities along the Gulf of Montijo. 

At the end of this journey, you will be part of the Mariato community. The hard work of volunteers over the past few years has resulted in thousands more sea turtles making their way out to sea, with more of them could survive, to promote their environmental protection.

Trip Highlights:

• Be part of the Embera family, and stay in the village of one of the ethnic groups who inhabit Panama.
• Experience both land and sea in one day that bring you deeper into stunning, wild Panama.
• Take a leisure day in the old fishing village, which suddenly became the surfers' dreamiest places with powerful waves and consistent & powerful breaks. You will fall in love with its sunsets and the chill lifestyle.
• Encounter a couple whose dedication highlights the timeliness of our planet-saving efforts. They successfully transformed a deforested area into a natural oasis.Afterward, we'll drive along a coastal avenue,revealing picturesque landscapes, to reach the community of Mata Oscura. There, we'll connect with the locals and explore the EcoRuta Tortuga.
• Take the ultimate beach holiday, combining the volcanic-dark sands with sea turtle conservation. A trip you’ll never forget. Step off the beaten track and into a remote paradise, visiting an unspoiled beach alongside friendly locals offering incredible activities, and helping to protect both baby sea turtles and mangrove from extinction.
• Meet one of the richest discoveries in the Americas in decades. It's a ceremonial cemetery more than a thousand years old, keeping the secret of powerful warriors' tombs gold bedecked, who ranPanama before the Spanish conquistadors.

Pre-Summit Adventure 5

Panama, Sand and Folklore - Panama’s Local Culture awaits in Azuero

DAYS: 6
DIFFICULTY: 2 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 06 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

Sand & Folklore in Panama seeks to show you, from the depths, part of this small wild piece of land that transforms the world.

Living Indigenous Culture, traveling back in time a thousand years ago to meet Embera people, you will enjoy their ancestral dances,gastronomy, connection, and respect for nature.

Their stories are so fascinating that you will know how their people helped the Apollo mission, the first manned trip that landed on the moon.

We will take off from Panama City towards the most beautiful Azuero’s Coast. We will have a day of white sands and crystalline beaches, worthy of any postcard.

In Azuero, you will encounter captivating, friendly locals, becoming an integral part of our rich history and traditions. Sail to Isla Iguana, an unparalleled wildlife sanctuary embraced by pristine white sands and vibrant corals. With some luck, offering a unique opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales, giants of the oceans.

Finally, travelers further south to the community of Cañas and the neighboring island with the same name. You will enjoy its people, the mangroves, and the conservation of sea turtles, and you will learn ancient meditation techniques to find your inner peace to heal your soul and spirit.

Trip Highlights:

• Be part of the Embera family, and stay in the village of one of the ethnic groups who inhabit Panama. On the Chagres River's banks since ancient times, learn about their customs,gastronomy, and ancient culture, including their traditional dances and body painting.
• Meet the people who keep in their hands the legacy of many generations. With your participation, we ensure that this art doesn't disappear forever. We will visit the workshops of clay artists, masks of corpus christi devils,handmade bread and if time permits drum makers.
• The inhabitant island is most famous for its colony of friendly black and green iguanas along with the dense brush, hence the name, on two white sand beaches you will find thousands of coconut palms and hermit crabs and the chance to find humpback whales.
• It all started with the dream of a young tourism student who wanted his hometown to become a tourist destination and help his entire family. The key was mangrove & sea turtle conservation and teamwork. Now his dream came true.
• Reaching Panama's south tip is where the road ends, where wild nature takes place, where the peace mixes up with the ocean, deep green mountains, and lush rainforest. It's the perfect combination to meet with yourself and heal your soul & mind. Then two exciting surprises.
• Sun-drenched fields, rhythmic drumming echoing through the air, and laughter bubbling up as you blend shoulder-to-shoulder with a vibrantPanamanian village. This isn't just any gathering;it's a Junta de Embarra, a communal event withmud, music, and meaning!
• You will arrive in time to visit Finca Pamel, a dream farm. You will have contact with the farm animals, milk a cow, feed the sheep, learn to make artisanal cheese, and collaborate in the local dish preparation for lunch. We will be immersed in a number ofagro-cultural experiences that will take your breath away.

Pre-Summit Adventure 6

Camino Real Trekking and cultures of Panama

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 4 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

This program is for dedicated jungle hikers! You will discover the rich heritage of the narrow Isthmus between the Caribbean and the Pacific coast: UNESCO world heritage sites, natural & cultural sites and the living cultures. We start with a train ride of 80 kilometers ocean to ocean next to the Panama Canal and visit the locks of Agua Clara and the nearby spanish-colonial fort of San Lorenzo. Then we hike the Camino Real, ocean to ocean following colonial cobblestones, through the pristine rainforest of Chagres and Portobelo National Park (over 1630 km2 of protected land). There we meet the people who made this story, from indigenous communities, mestizo farmers, afro colonial people at the Caribbean coast and the explorers and communities who rediscovered the Camino Real since 2008. Upon arrival in Portobelo, the Caribbean terminal of the Camino Real, we will encounter afro-american culture, see the colonial fort, churches, the customs house and relax in Caribbean waters. On our return to Panama City we visited the old town (UNESCO heritage site).

Main Activities: Trekking, Cultural, Culture of local communities, Marine activities

Trip Highlights:

• Train journey from the Pacific to the Atlantic and a visit to the new locks of the Panama Canal, Spanish colonial forts and an encounter with the Embera.
• Boat out in dugout boats, observing the rain forests of Chagres National Park on the lake’s shore, which are vital for the conservation of the Panama Canal watershed, and drinking water of Panama City.
• Trekking along the Camino Real. First we trek an hour and a half uphill to reach a lookout on the mountain. Here we enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Chagres National Park.
• Walk almost all day through primary forests of the headwaters of the rivers Cascajal and Boquerón. This area is called the Alto Chagres, and has pre-mountain tropical rainforests. Here we can see different plant species than the previous days. The climate is also slightly cooler than the days before.
• Climb the river Boquerón, crossing the river countless times and walk under giant trees of the virgin forest where we observe numerous waterfalls.
• Hike the last segment of the Camino Real toward the Caribbean. We walk along the river Cascajal in the footsteps of the Camino Real toward Portobelo.
• By boat we observe mangrove habitats and channels with crystal clear and turquoise waters. We take snorkel gear and at some spots we can swim or snorkel.

Pre-Summit Adventure 7

Camino Real adventures from the Pacific to San Blas

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 2-3 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

The Isthmus of Panama, a narrow patch of land between the Caribbean and the Pacific coast, has several UNESCO world heritage sites, natural & cultural sites and the living cultures. We start with a train ride of 80 kilometers ocean to ocean next to the Panama Canal and visit the locks of Agua Clara and the nearby spanish-colonial fort of San Lorenzo. Then we observe wildlife around Lake Gatun, next to huge vessels crossing the Panama Canal. Next we visit an Embera community and hike the Camino Real, located within the Chagres National Park (1270 km2 of protected land).

There we meet the people who made this story, from indigenous communities, mestizo farmers, afro colonial people at the Caribbean coast and the explorers and communities who rediscovered the Camino Real since 2008. Then in Portobelo, the Caribbean terminal of the Camino Real, we will encounter afro-american culture, see colonial forts, churches, the customs house. Finally we travel to the indigenous comarca of Guna Yala or San Blas, where we get to know this indigenous group of Panama, explore marine habitats and relax in Caribbean water.

This program is for the active and adventurous traveler, who love to experience history, people and cultural expressions as well as nature and wildlife, and who like to support communities who yearn for a sustainable living amidst pristine natural habitats.

Main Activities: Wildlife Watching, Hiking, Marine activities, Culture of local communities.

Trip Highlights:

• Head to the mouth of the River Chagres, which was dammed up to create Gatun Lake for the Panama Canal.
• Visit the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center with a viewing tower over the roof of the rainforest.
• Take typical fishing boats and get very close to the huge ships that pass through the Panama Canal.
• Visit the Embera, an indigenous group of Panama.
• Visit the Escuelita de Ritmo en Portobelo and participate at a drum workshop and see the dances of afro-colonial traditions: El Baile Congo.
• Pass by boat the capital island, “El Porvenir”, which only consists of a landing strip and small governmental buildings, and then continue to a densely populated island nearby. We visit this little community, and will learn about the livelihood and culture of the Gunas.
• Explore the unique marine habitats of the Cayos Holandeses, we can snorkel and observe coral reefs and colorful fish.

Pre-Summit Adventure 8

Pirates, nature and experiences of the Caribbean.

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 4 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

This unique adventure invites you to discover Panama through its biodiversity, culture and people. The pirates, nature and experiences of the Caribbean experience invites you to discover the community of Achiote together with the Los Rapaces ecotourism group, through its tropical biodiversity, its exotic birds, the Congo Culture and the history of pirates in the Chagres River and the Castillo del Real del Chagres declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

This itinerary was one of the winners of the Community Tourism Experiences contest in May 2023, promoted by ATP, UNWTO, ATTA, Tourism Care and PROMTUR.

Immerse yourself in the magic of the Panama Highlands. Explore the exuberant mountainous landscapes of this region, where the freshness of the air, the native peoples and the biodiversity envelop you in a unique experience.

Trip Highlights:

• Learn about the ingredients that distinguish our gastronomy and share with the happy people of Colón.
• Prepare your lunch with the women of the Achiote community, with local products at the Kaská community restaurant. The specialty is rice with coconut, fried fish and patacones.
• Travel along the Chagres River to appreciate its exuberant nature, in the style of pirates until you reach its mouth in the Caribbean Sea, which delights us with the imposing view of the San Lorenzo del Real del Chagres Castle.
• Learn about the elements and meaning of the important heritage of Congo culture. From playing the drum, to dancing with bare feet, enjoying the sea and its sounds.
• Ascend by 4x4 car to the top of the Barú Volcano, where we cross majestic tropical forests, revealing the diversity of flora and fauna that surrounds the region to enjoy the sunrise from the highest point in Panama, at 3,475 meters above sea level.
• Glide over the canopy of ancient trees, rivers and waterfalls. Admire an incredible collection of natural landscapes that border the La Amistad International Park, 4.5 kilometers long divided into (12) twelve cables.
• Discover the authenticity of Ngäbe-Buglé culture as you explore this picturesque place.
• Explore the highest waterfall in Panama, a true natural wonder that will leave you breathless.

Pre-Summit Adventure 9

Wonders of Nature and Culture.

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 2-3 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

In this trip, you will visit Mata Oscura Community in Veraguas province to participe with the local conservation organization Eco Ruta  in the night shift and witness sea turtles nesting on the pristine beaches of the community, with the possibility of seeing the nesting process and participating in the rescue and relocation of nests (eggs).

Venture on a snorkeling and whale watching expedition with an expert local guide in Coiba National Park surrounded by lush tropical scenery and pristine coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seabirds, and other marine wildlife along the way.   Immerse yourself in the heart of Ngäbe Buglé community life as local inhabitants share their ancestral knowledge with you and taste the secrets behind the preparation of native dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation.  Explore  “Kiki”, the highest waterfall in Panama, a true natural wonder that will leave you breathless.

Trip Highlights:

• As part of the patrol, you'll have a hands-on role in monitoring and safeguarding the turtle nests, ensuring the safety of these endangered species.
• Travel by boat along the  coast of Coiba National Park  to appreciate its exuberant nature and snorkeling in Pristine Waters alongside tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays in their natural habitat.
• Encounter with Humpback Whales, while learning fascinating facts about these gentle giants from our knowledgeable guides.
• Discover the authenticity of Ngäbe-Buglé culture.  Prepare your lunch with the women of Soloy Community Group using local ingredients.
• Admire an incredible collection of natural landscape during the hike to the Kiki Waterfall.

Pre-Summit Adventure 10

Bocas Uncovered: Indigenous Traditions & Island Bliss - Bocas del Toro

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 2 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

Embark on an enriching journey through Panama's diverse culture and breathtaking landscapes. Begin by flying to Bocas del Toro and venturing to the Naso community of Bonyic for an authentic encounter with Panama's indigenous heritage. Immerse yourself in their age-old traditions at Posada Media Luna, a quaint public house nestled in the heart of the community. Delve into the history of the Royal Palace, engage in a hands-on cacao workshop, and try your hand at crafting traditional Naso handicrafts. After two days of cultural immersion, return to the captivating Bocas del Toro Archipelago, where pristine beaches await amidst the turquoise Caribbean Sea. 

Experience the adrenaline rush of ziplining through Bastimentos Marine National Park and set sail on a boat tour to explore Dolphin Bay, Coral Key, and Zapatilla Keys. Conclude your Panamanian adventure with a Casco Viejo walking tour in Panama City, followed by a heartfelt farewell dinner as you reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey.

Highlights

• Immersive Community Experience: Stay at Posada Media Luna and engage in activities like dining, storytelling, and crafting with the Bonyic Naso Community.
• Visit the Royal Palace, meet the King Naso, and delve into their traditions. Participate in a cacao processing workshop, gaining insight into their agricultural practices and culinary heritage.
• Feel the adrenaline rush as you zip through the treetops in Bastimentos Marine National Park, enjoying spectacular views of the forest and spotting wildlife.
• Explore Dolphin Bay, Coral Key, and Zapatilla Keys on a private boat tour, with opportunities for dolphin watching, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
• Indulge in Caribbean dishes and local cuisine during lunches and dinners in Bocas Town.
• Delve into the history and charm of Casco Viejo with a walking tour, discovering colonial architecture, churches, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Pre-Summit Adventure 11

Hiking to Panama’s highest peak, snorkeling around untouched islands - Chiriquí

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 4 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

Our adventure will begin by taking a flight to the western province of Chiriqui, and driving to the mountain village of Volcan, where we will prepare for our epic hike to Panama's roof, the Baru Volcano. After checking into our hotel, we will visit Finca Dracula, a private botanical garden, specialized in the cultivation and conservation of orchids. In the evening we will enjoy the local cuisine at Cerro Brujo Gourmet, where Chef Patricia Miranda works with Ngäbe indigenous women, highlighting their traditional food, helping preserve the local culture. 

We will rise early to begin our ascent to the top of the Baru Volcano National Park, appreciating biodiversity through a variety of ecosystems on the way to the top. At close to 3,500 meters, it is the highest point in Panama; on a clear day, we will be able to see both oceans. 

You will experience what very few people do in their lifetimes, camping on the top of a volcano and waking up to see a sunrise through the clouds.

Highlights

• Discover the secrets of Geisha coffee, considered the most valuable coffee in the world. 
• Visit the Hacienda Mamecillo, recently highlighted in National Geographic´s “Restaurants at the End of the World”.
• Drive from the mountains to the coast and enjoy the white sand in the untouched islands of the Gulf of Chiriqui Marine National Park. 
• Take a short hike to Kiki, a majestic waterfall in the jungle, one of the highest measured waterfalls in Panama, considered a natural temple to the indigenous Ngäbe people. 
• Connect with indigenous ancestral traditions by participating in a cacao ceremony with the local community.

Pre-Summit Adventure 12

Isla Cañas Inmersion 1 (Cambutal - Cañas Island - Iguana Island)

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 3 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

Explore the mountains and trails of Cambutal, a community located in the Tonosí district and enjoy a wonderful bonfire on its beautiful beach.

Immerse yourself in the local culture, idiosyncrasy and nature of Isla Cañas, famous worldwide for its 14 kilometers of beach that are visited from July to December by tales of sea turtles that come to its beaches to lay their eggs, one of the most impressive spectacles. that nature offers.

The bicycle tour offers you an authentic experience with a local guide who, on the tour, will learn about the mangroves, the sea turtle conservation area, a tour of the agrotourism area of ​​the island and ends at a local bakery made by island women.

Live an epic experience in the middle of the Cañas  jungle, enjoying a relaxing ride on one of the largest ziplines in Panama, with 8 lines including one more than 600 meters long and 3 rappels, Venao zipline is quite an adventure Here you can live an adventure through the trees while enjoying an impressive view of the reed mountains. It is a perfect setting to learn about different species of trees and species of monkeys that can undoubtedly be observed throughout the entire route; The tour ends with a horseback ride at sunset on Venao Beach.                                                                                                                                      Explore Iguana Island and take part in an exciting boat tour to observe the humpback whales, which every year, attracted by its warm waters, visit the Pacific coast between the months of July and October.

The humpback whales, which can reach up to 17 meters in length, will delight you with their acrobatics, which can be observed about 200 meters away from the boats. You will also be able to hear their songs and appreciate the mothers feeding and teaching their babies to swim (whale calves).

Pre-Summit Adventure 13

Isla Cañas Inmersion 2 (Iguana Island - Cañas Island - Cambutal)

DAYS: 5
DIFFICULTY: 3 
DATES: 01 October 2024 – 05 October 2024
START LOCATION: Panama City

Explore Iguana Island and take part in an exciting boat tour to observe the humpback whales, which every year, attracted by its warm waters, visit the Pacific coast between the months of July and October.

The humpback whales, which can reach up to 17 meters in length, will delight you with their acrobatics, which can be observed about 200 meters away from the boats. You will also be able to hear their songs and appreciate the mothers feeding and teaching their babies to swim. whale calves (calfs).

You will live an epic experience in the middle of the Caña Island, you will enjoy a relaxing ride on one of the largest ziplines in Panama, with 8 lines, including one more than 600 meters long and 3 rappels, Venao Zipline is quite an adventure, here you can live an adventure through the trees while enjoying an impressive view over the mountains of reeds, it is a perfect setting to learn about different species of trees and species of monkeys that can undoubtedly be observed throughout the entire route, ending the tour with a horseback ride at sunset on the Venao Beach.

Immerse yourself in the local culture, idiosyncrasy and nature of Isla Cañas, famous worldwide for its 14 kilometers of beach that are visited from July to December by tales of sea turtles that come to its beaches to lay their eggs, one of the most impressive spectacles that nature offers.

The bicycle tour offers you an authentic experience with a local guide who, on the tour, will learn about the mangroves, the sea turtle conservation area, a tour of the agrotourism area of the island and ends at a local bakery made by island women.