14-Night Central America Tour: Panama, Costa Rica & Nicaragua

Upon arrival in Panama, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred comfortably to your hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time to rest and ease into the rhythm of the city.

Panama City blends modern towers with historic neighborhoods and seaside promenades. You can take a relaxed evening stroll, stop by a local café or restaurant, and get your first impression of the capital at your own pace.

Your first day is simple and calm — a smooth start before the journey ahead.

After breakfast, you’ll explore the main sights of Panama City. The day includes a scenic drive along the Amador Causeway, a visit to the Miraflores Locks to observe ships passing through the Panama Canal, and a walk through Casco Antiguo, the city’s historic district. The pace is relaxed, with time to enjoy viewpoints and take photos. The evening is free.

In the morning, you’ll take a short domestic flight to Chiriquí, a region known for mountains, coffee farms, and cooler climate. After arrival and hotel check-in, you’ll have the rest of the day to enjoy the peaceful surroundings or take a walk through the town. It’s a gentle transition from the capital to nature.

Before dawn, you’ll travel by 4x4 towards the top of Barú Volcano, the highest point in Panama. Weather permitting, the sunrise offers wide, open views over mountain ranges and distant coastlines. After spending time at the summit area, you return to Boquete by late morning. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore on your own.

After breakfast, you’ll travel from the highlands to the Caribbean side of Panama. The route takes you through changing landscapes before reaching the port for the short boat ride to Isla Colón. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to the hotel and enjoy a free afternoon by the sea or in town.

Today’s boat tour introduces you to the natural beauty of Bocas del Toro. You’ll visit Dolphin Bay, where dolphins are often seen in calm waters; snorkel around Coral Cay; and spend time on the white sands of Zapatilla Island. A stop at Sloth Island completes the day. You return to Isla Colón in the late afternoon.

After breakfast, you’ll head toward the border and continue into Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean region. The atmosphere here is relaxed, colorful, and influenced by Afro-Caribbean culture. Upon arrival in Puerto Viejo, you’ll check in and have the rest of the day at leisure.

In the morning, you’ll explore Cahuita National Park, known for its coastline, rainforest trails, and coral reef areas. The route is easy and scenic, with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the tropical environment. The afternoon and evening are free to spend in Puerto Viejo.

After breakfast, you’ll travel inland toward the Northern Plains, home to the Arenal Volcano. Upon arrival in La Fortuna, you’ll check in and have the rest of the day free — whether to rest at the hotel or visit nearby hot springs on your own.

Today includes a guided walk through Arenal Volcano National Park. The trails pass through open fields, forested areas, and old lava paths, with viewpoints overlooking the volcano and Lake Arenal. It’s a balanced, informative experience that highlights the region’s landscapes and wildlife.

After breakfast, you’ll travel north to the Peñas Blancas border crossing and continue into Nicaragua. The journey ends in León, a colonial city known for its architecture and cultural heritage. After hotel check-in, the evening is free.

In the morning, you’ll take a guided city tour of León. Afterward, you’ll travel to Granada, with a stop at the Catarina viewpoint to enjoy scenic lake and volcano views. Upon arrival in Granada, you’ll check in to the hotel and have time at leisure.

After breakfast, you’ll discover Granada on a city tour, visiting historic landmarks and colorful streets. Later, you’ll take a boat ride around the Islets of Granada — small, lush islands formed by ancient volcanic activity. The rest of the day is open for personal exploration or relaxation.

Today you’ll return to Costa Rica, crossing the border and continuing to Monteverde. You’ll visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, known for its misty trails, rich biodiversity, and unique high-elevation ecosystems. After the visit, you’ll settle into your hotel for the night.

Day 15: After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. End of services.