Panama: Craters, Coasts & Highland Mountains

Duration

18 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Eighteen days of next-level beaches, wild landscapes, and full-on freedom — this is Panama like you’ve never seen it. Start in Costa Rica and cruise into the often-overlooked magic of Panama, where every stop hits different.

Includes

Activities

Your G for Good Moment: Local Community Focused Chocolate Experience, Bocas del Toro Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Big Night Out Moment: Bocas del Toro Your Discover Moment: Boquete Your Discover Moment: Panama City Your Big Night Out Moment: Panama City
CEO-led Orientation Walk of Puerto Viejo
Biking in Puerto Viejo
CEO-led Orientation Walk - Bocas del Toro
Starfish Beach Visit
Panama City CEO-led Orientation Walk
3-night San Blas Islands Stay supporting the local ingenious community
Guna Indigenous Community Visit & Presentation
Island Visits
Free time for beach, snorkelling, swimming, and lounging
Free time in Puerto Viejo, Bocas del Toro, Boquete, Valle de Anton, Panama City, & San Blas Islands
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

Hostels (8 nts, multi-share), Hotels/Guesthouse (6 nts), Basic Island Huts (3 nts, multi-share).

3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Public bus, walking, private vehicle, ferry, boat

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, and local indigenous community guide.

Highlights

Catch chill waves and beach vibes in Puerto Viejo before crossing into Panama
Swim through starfish-studded waters in Bocas del Toro
Hike hidden trails and chase waterfalls in the misty hills of Boquete
Sleep in a town inside a volcanic crater in lush Valle de Antón
Dance snack and soak up skyline views in buzzing Panama City
Live off-grid for three nights in the stunning San Blas Islands
Learn Guna traditions from local makers and snorkel coral reefs straight from the beach

Trip Details

Duration

18 days

Transportation

Public bus, walking, private vehicle, ferry, boat

Guide Language

English

Starts

San José, Costa Rica

Finishes

Panama City, Panama

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: San José

Arrive at any time. There's so much to see and do in San José so we recommend checking out what you can. From city tours to coffee experiences in the Central Valley, there's a variety to choose from should you arrive early. Join a welcome meeting in the evening to get to know your newest travel family and opt to grab a meal at a local restaurant afterwards as a way to break the ice and grow more comfortable with each other.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Costa Rica Guesthouse

Day 2: San José/Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Catch a local bus from San José to the picturesque village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. You'll find 14km (8.7 mi) of incomparable white and black sand beaches here all surrounded by exotic tropical vegetation. A true paradise to start the adventure. Set off on a CEO-led orientation walk upon arrival and then take advantage of free time to explore, unwind, and soak up the magic of Puerto Viejo. You'll have just enough time to dive into the town's laid-back rhythm and discover why this little corner of the Caribbean is so loved by travelers from all over the world. Whether you're craving beach time, a local bite, or a bit of spontaneous adventure, there's plenty to do (or not do—because relaxing counts too!)

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - You'll have free time today to explore, unwind, and soak up the magic of this Caribbean village. Choose between beach time, a local bite to eat, or a bike rental to pedal around and feel the salty sea air blow through your hair. Prepare to fall a little bit in love with this laid-back coastal gem.Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Activity - Stroll through the main streets with your trusty CEO. Explore local shops, stop by cafés, and see where the key beach entrances, bike rental shops, and must-try restaurants and bars are. As you walk, gain a deeper sense the area’s unique Afro-Caribbean culture and laid-back lifestyle.Accommodation - Hotel Agapi

Day 3: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

It's time to explore! Hop on a bike and ride to the beach with your CEO. Once here opt to try surfing if the waves are calling. Hit up beaches like Cocles, Punta Uva, and maybe even make it to Manzanillo. There will be stops along the way to grab a drink, jump in the ocean, and spot some animals. Later, the group will have free time to relax at the hostel, grab a coffee, find a hammock, and simply relax. You could also chat with your travel mates, play some cards together, or throw on a fun playlist and dance the night away to reggae and calypso for a true taste of this tropical paradise. Group hangout in the common area to spice up the evening, anyone?

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - This morning, jump on a bike and take a ride around to a nearby beach with your CEO. You'll be out exploring and enjoying the scenery all day around Puerto Viejo. Start time: 9 AM End time: 5 PMFree_time - Embrace the beauty of Puerto Viejo and enjoy the beaches, chill vibes, and colourful nature of this Caribbean haven. Snap group photos, make up fun dances, and load up those reels for your social medias, because everyone at home wants to come along for the ride.Accommodation - Hotel Agapi

Day 4: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca/Bocas del Toro

The moment you have been waiting for…Panama! Cross the border today and travel by bus, boat, and foot to the lovely archipelago of Bocas del Toro. Your CEO will show the group around on a leisurely stroll through town. Check out the main spots, learn a bit about the local culture, and get the lay of the land. The archipelago of Bocas is a reflection of Afro-Caribbean culture. As you walk the streets you'll hear calypso and reggae rhythms, and guari-guari– a language that is a mixture of English, French and Spanish. After the walk, take some time to wander on your own, find a comfortable spot, breathe in the fresh air, and simply enjoy being present in one of Panama's favorite destinations for locals and travellers alike.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the window of a local bus between Puerto Viejo and the border with Panama.Activity - Cross the border between Costa Rica and Panama at Sixaola. Have your passports handy.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Sit back and enjoy the shared boat ride from Almirante to the paradise of Bocas del Toro.Activity - Follow your CEO and get the lay of the land and the good vibes of Bocas. The archipelago is a favorite destination among Panamanians and visitors. This north-westernmost province in the country allows you to become immersed in the cultures, mangroves, reefs, and perfect surfing waves, of this laid-back and sun-kissed paradise.Free_time - Spend a free evening in Bocas del Toro. Sit on the beach as the sun fades from the sky, hangout with your travel pals and have a night out on the town, or find a funky local spot and grab a meal together after a day of travel.Accommodation - Dreamers Hostel

Day 5: Bocas del Toro

The tropical vibes continue during a full free day to enjoy all that Bocas del Toro has to offer. Think paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling, or maybe a bioluminescence tour later in the day. Choose to be as relaxed or active as you would like. Swimming, sunbathing, rocking in a hammock, or people watching from a cute local spot, are great options too.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Feel like you have stepped into a ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’-like paradise with plenty to discover. From snorkeling to deserted beaches, diving, starfish, coconuts, wildlife, delicious food, party places, and peaceful quietness, Bocas del Toro really does have something for everyone. Soak up some sunshine, take some pictures and videos, and find some fresh seafood to indulge in as you pretend you are marooned here forever, away from the stress of the world.Activity - Enjoy a night out on the town with your travel friends and truly let your hair down in the beach town of Panama's Bocas del Toro.Accommodation - Dreamers Hostel

Day 6: Bocas del Toro

Charge up those phones and cameras because you're going to want proof of today's activity! The group will enjoy a visit to the famous Starfish Beach, known for the hundreds of starfish that spend the day in the shallow waters of an isolated cove. Swim in the calm waters and enjoy the beauty before you. Travel back to the hostel in the afternoon and relax on your own. Grab some friends and head out for a fun local meal and some dancing, read a book in solitude, or try one of the optional activities you didn't have time for yesterday. There will be an optional group dinner tonight and everyone will walk there together if you choose to join.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Spend time on your own or with the group in the beautiful atmosphere of Bocas del Toro. Swim, lounge, play a card game, dance in the street, and let the good times roll.Activity - Starfish beach is known for the hundreds of starfish that spend the day in the shallow, calm water of this isolated cove. You can reach the beach by boat, shuttle, bike or 4x4 – once you arrive, grab a drink and see how many starfish you can spot while swimming in some of the calmest waters of Bocas.Accommodation - Dreamers Hostel

Day 7: Bocas del Toro/Boquete

Pack those bags and travel back to the mainland today as the group heads to the mountain town of Boquete, where an abundance of outdoor activities await! Along the way pay a visit to the local indigenous Ngäbe community and learn about the process from which chocolate is derived and why cacao is so important to their culture. Arrive in the evening to Boquete and get settled in at your base for the next few nights. Choose to join an optional dinner at a local spot with the group.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Travel back to the mainland via ferry from Bocas del Toro.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Bocas del Toro and Boquete. There will be a stop en route at a G Adventures-supported community tourism initiative.Activity - Learn how chocolate is really made from planting the seed to tasting the final sweet bar. The group will visit a farm operated by the local Indigenous Ngäbe community where your guide will take everyone through the whole process and tell you about the history, trade side of things, and why cacao is so important to the local indigenous culture here in Panama. This handmade process focuses on the traditional ways of making chocolate to ensure the continuation of organic cocoa. At the end of the experience you will get to taste the chocolate bars, accompanied by yanikeke, traditional bread made with flour and coconut.Accommodation - Hotel Oasis

Day 8: Boquete

Everyone loves to feel that adrenaline kick in every now and then, and the wooded valley of Boquete surrounded by mountains is the perfect destination to make that happen. Enjoy a full free day here to discover the trails of lost waterfalls, hike to Baru Volcano, go whitewater rafting, or horseback riding. You can also choose to book a tour of a coffee plantation, hike through the cloud forest, or try spotting wildlife in the area. Craving some deeper connection after a day of activity? Choose to join the group and walk from the hostel to a nearby restaurant for an optional local dinner.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - It's a full free day all to yourself in Panama's adventure destination. From rafting to horseback riding, to hiking and cloud forest exploring, there are so many different options to choose from to make your time here as heart-thumping or relaxing as you'd like.Accommodation - Hotel Oasis

Day 9: Boquete

Everyone wants more time in Boquete, so take another free day to try some of the optional activities you didn't have time for yesterday. Life is better when shared, so grab a buddy and opt in to one of the active activities together. Take pictures and videos of your experiences and push yourself out of your comfort zone in a place that largely celebrates being adventurous. Walk from the hostel to a local restaurant tonight for an optional group dinner and share stories of your experiences from today.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Opt in to some adrenaline inducing activities during your second full free day in Boquete. Choose a climbing tour in "Los Ladrillos", navigate rapids of varying levels on the Chiriquí Viejo River, bathe in the soothing hot springs of La Caldera, walk through the beautiful cloud forests shrouded in mist, and immerse yourself in one of the coolest places in Panama (literally).Accommodation - Hotel Oasis

Day 10: Boquete/Valle de Antón

Be enveloped by Panama's inland scenery today while the group travels from Boquete to Valle de Anton. Located in the middle of the crater of an inactive volcano, this quaint town is rich in green, fertile land, biodiversity, and full of adventure waiting for you. Arrive later in the day, get settled in the hostel, and perhaps go out for dinner with the group and cheers to a successful travel day.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Transport - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.Accommodation - Hotel Don Pepe

Day 11: Valle de Antón

Valle de Anton is an ideal destination for travellers looking to hike, zipline, cycle, or soak in hot springs. If you're feeling really adventurous, opt to try the 30km (18.6 mile) Ruta de la Caldera, or choose one of its sections, the most iconic being El Gaital which reaches over 1,000 metres (3,281 ft) above sea level. You could also rent bikes and cycle around the town, or visit the Pozos Termales to soothe those muscles from yesterday's long bus rides. It's your time to enjoy the great outdoors, laugh with your travel family, and soak up the cool weather as you search for wildlife on your own. As always, there will be the option to join together with the group for dinner in the evening at a hip, local spot, and dish out stories about how you spent your free day here.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Today is all yours to enjoy the charming atmosphere of Valle de Anton. From ziplining to hot springs, and hiking along the caldera, to cycling, there's no time to be bored. Search for wildlife in the forest, and walk around town to admire the gardens. Choose to be as active or relaxed as you need at this point in your adventure.Accommodation - Hotel Don Pepe

Day 12: Valle de Antón/Panama City

If you wish, enjoy a morning to sleep in before travelling by public bus to Panama City. Download those podcasts and playlists to enjoy along the way. Arrive in the late afternoon and join your CEO for an orientation walk to discover the main attractions like Casco Viejo, Plaza de la Independencia, and the Panama Cathedral. Then, enjoy free time in the evening to take a more in-depth city tour, stroll or bike along the Amador Causeway, the city's scenic boardwalk, or relax at your accommodation. Tonight is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the nightlife atmosphere of Panama's capital.

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Enjoy travelling like the locals on a public bus between Valle de Anton and Panama City. Stop along the way to grab some lunch on your own.Activity - Panama City is much more than the country's capital. Enjoy the important sites of the old square as your CEO helps you become familiar with your newest destination. Some of the tallest skyscrapers in Latin America can be found here. It's where historical culture and bustling city life meet. Enjoy the breeze coming from off the Pacific and get a sense of the city's modern atmosphere.Free_time - The evening is yours to make of it what you wish. From walks along the scenic boardwalk, to exploring the old town, and finding a delicious local spot to grab dinner, the vibes here fit everyone's mood.Accommodation - Hotel Toscana Inn

Day 13: Panama City

Panama City has plenty to offer travellers. From walking along the Bay of Panama, to visiting the Metropolitan Natural Park's nature sanctuary in the middle of the city. If you're feeling up to it, you could even arrange a visit to the iconic Panama Canal about an hour outside the city. From great food to loads of archaeological sites and colonial history, there's loads to experience and check out. Enjoy yourself on this full free day in the vibrant atmosphere of the city before you go off the grid to the San Blas Islands.

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy all that Panama City has to offer during a full free day of exploration on your own. People watch in the old town area, find a spot to chill with some delicious food and a good drink, or walk along the waterfront. In the evening, choose to meet up with the group for an optional dinner at a local spot.Accommodation - Hotel Toscana Inn

Day 14: Panama City/San Blas Islands

It's time to bid farewell to the mainland as the group travels early this morning to catch the ferry to the magical and largely untouched San Blas Islands. The islands are governed by the local Guna indigenous community and the archipelago is made up of 365 islands, of which only 50 are inhabited by the Guna community. The islands' well-protected natural beauty make them a top destination to experience while in Panama, especially before word gets out about this wonderful paradise. Arrive to the community of Carti and pay a visit to the chief at their local Congress House for a brief welcome. Then, continue by boat to Asseryaladub Island, where you will have free time to relax on the beach and explore the underwater world of snorkelling. Gather round with the group after an included dinner this evening and listen to stories about Guna culture for a truly unique introduction to the San Blas Islands.

Meals included: Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.Free_time - Get settled on Asseryaladub Island, one of the more popular of the San Blas. Live those 'marooned on a deserted island' fantasies and relax in the tranquility of island life. Lounge on the beach, swim in the warm water, and choose to grab a snorkel to check out the abundance of fish beneath the surface. If you're looking for a reset, the laid-back atmosphere will not disappoint.

Day 15: San Blas Islands

Remember, a trip to the San Blas Islands won't look like an island experience you've had before. So embrace the local customs and cuisine, and keep in mind there's no internet access. You will be completely unplugged for a few days. It's paradise without the everyday creature comforts, and you'll be surprised by how much you enjoy the simple things in life. After breakfast visit a natural pool and check out the starfish lounging beneath the surface. Then, visit another island for a slight change of scenery. Relax more on the beach here, play some games in the water with your travel pals and go snorkeling. Arrive back to Asseryaladub Island and your cozy huts there for more free time. Kick back in the common area and take it easy, there's nowhere to be but here.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Relax, swim, sunbathe, and snorkel during your full free day among the San Blas Islands. Visit a few other spots like a natural pool with starfish and another smaller island for a slight change in scenery before returning to your home base. Here, chill out with the group or on your own and simply enjoy being in the moment with no pressing concerns to handle or problems to solve. It's the ultimate vacation.Accommodation - San Blas

Day 16: San Blas Islands

Today, learn more about the prevalent traditional practices of the Guna. In the morning travel by boat to the Aguadub Community for a presentation and cultural session highlighting Guna tradition. This includes the art of crafting Molas, a traditional textile made from layers of colored fabric created to form patterns and pictures inspired by their universal beliefs. Listen as a member of the community discusses the significance of beadwork and ancestral medicine shared by a local healer. Return to Asseryaladub with a great appreciation for the indigenous community that calls these islands home and how they are working to protect and preserve its untouched beauty. This afternoon take advantage of free time to swim, snorkel, and maybe play a game of beach volleyball as a group. End the day feeling far more connected to this immensely special place.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Experience a cultural session led by the local indigenous Guna community that will highlight their traditional practices. Become familiar with the art of Mola design, learn more about wini beadwork, and listen to stories from a local healer as they describe their ancestral medicine practices. This visit is an ideal way to give thanks to the community and better understand their desires to protect and maintain the solitude and untouched paradise of their beautiful San Blas Islands.Free_time - Enjoy a final free afternoon in the San Blas Islands. Grab a good book and read on a towel in the sand overlooking the inviting turquoise water. Snorkel with the fish, float aimlessly in the ocean under a perfect blue sky, or play a game of beach volleyball with your fellow travellers. Today's only rule is to relax and have fun.Accommodation - San Blas

Day 17: San Blas Islands/Panama City

Spend a leisurely morning on the island and soak up the magical connection you have built by visiting. Then, wave goodbye to the palm trees swaying in the breeze and the small waves crashing in the white sand as you board the boat back to Puerto Carti. From here, travel back to Panama City by private vehicle. Enjoy free time to explore the vibrancy of this city and if you desire, dance the night away with your new close friends. A rooftop bar seems like the perfect vibe for tonight's night out on the town. The choice is all yours.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Take advantage of a slow morning to fully say goodbye to this stunning tropical paradise. Go for one last swim, take as many photos as you can, and vow to return someday before heading to the ferry.Transport - Enjoy a public ferry ride through the water from San Blas Islands back to Puerto de Carti.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - The evening is yours in Panama City. Find a spot to watch the sunset, maybe grab some dinner at a rooftop restaurant/bar, and commit to dancing the night away with your group that has quickly become like family.Activity - Enjoy a night out on the town with your travel friends and truly let your hair down in the fun atmosphere of Panama City.Accommodation - Hotel Toscana Inn

Day 18: Panama City

Depart at anytime. Or perhaps consider spending a few extra days in the lively Panama City. Before you go, make sure you swap information with your newest travel family because someday maybe you'll meet up in another part of the world.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $3099

AUD $2,634

(Tour only)

Offer ends 01 Apr, 2026 Per Person Standard

Duration: 18 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 02 Jun 2026

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Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

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