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Panama is the link between Central America and South America, constituting an isthmus of 80 km. wide in its narrower section. I flew from Guatemala City and it’s a complete change of surroundings. Unlike Guatemala city , this is a city of sku scrappers. Buildings of all sizes , shapes and forms everywhere. I arrived my hotel in the afternoon . It’s pretty much my easy day to walk around and explore parts by foot. Uber is easily available here , so took a Uber to visit the central and old part of the city and walked around Plaza de Francia , Casco Antiguo , National Theatre, Panama Canel, Metropolitan Cathedral and the market area. Later in the evening I took another Uber back to my hotel. Thus end my 1st night in Panama City. Next morning I got an early morning flight to Bocas Del Toro. Flight to Bocus was from domestic airport which is closer to the hotel I was staying. I also left my main luggage at the hotel in Panama City.
I flew back to Panama city from Boquete . These were my last couple of days before I wrap up my Panama trip.
San Blas Day tour
My San Blas Day tour started early in the morning. Driver picked me up from Panama City hotel around 5:00am and then we were transferred to the Port of Carti. It was about 3 hour journey through the spectacular jungle highlands. We encountered some wildlife,including sloths on the road and car was stooped to give us opportunities to admire these beautiful animals and to take photos. We were also stopped at a grocery store to purchase any items. Then we embarked on a journey to discover the pristine beauty of Panama’s Caribbean coast, cruise through crystal-clear waters, explore deserted islands, and immerse in the vibrant culture of the Kuna people. Experience the ultimate adventure with our expertly curated San Blas tours.
When arrived at the port and a “lancha” boat with your San Blas tour guide was waiting for us, ready to commence the San Blas tour.
The 30-minute boat ride to the first island may be a little bumpy and there was some ocean spray. All of our . Arrived at our first destination, Isla Perro, we were greeted by a tropical palm-fringed island paradise and calm waters with various shades of blue and green inviting one to dive in and play with the multitude of colorful fish surrounding the area, one can also snorkel on the sunken shipwreck reef located close to the beach. We had plenty of time to relax in the shade of a palm tree, explore the island, meet the amazing Kuna population or bath in the crystal clear ocean, surrounding us with the iridescent turquoise water colors allowing for postcard perfect photo shots.
At lunchtime we were served a tasty and freshly prepared lunch, with a choice of fresh fish or chicken. After lunch, we’ll head to the renowned Natural Pool, a sunken island in the middle of the ocean with a shallow sandbank where visitors can stand waist-deep in the water. Oftentimes we can spot starfish resting on the ocean floor, offering a beautiful underwater experience.
Our next stop was Isla Nuinudup, which has only recently been opened to the public. Until a few months ago, this island was accessible exclusively to sailors, who favored its sheltered anchorage and the proximity to other nearby islands just minutes away. Isla Nuinudup boasts a stunning sandy beach with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and crystal-clear tropical waters. A beach volleyball net is also available, drawing visitors for lively, fun-filled games in this idyllic setting. We also visited the awe-inspiring Natural Pool. Stand waist-deep in the middle of the ocean on fine sand and admire the many sea stars populating this vast, shallow area. Whether using your snorkel gear or not, everyone will be able to glimpse the amazing underwater world only a few feet below the surface.
Our last destination takes us to Isla Diablo, another typical San Blas island, white sand beaches and an interesting Kuna family inhabiting the island. We stopped here for a short while allowing everyone to use the fresh water showers to rinse off before heading back to the port.
Between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM we will leave this island paradise and head back to the Port of Carti. Your driver will be waiting for you and safely drive you back to Panama City,and was dropped off by 7.30 PM
Panama Canal and Monkey Island
This is my final day tour from Panama city. The Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour takes you from the heart of the canal to the edge of the Caribbean Sea — blending world-class engineering, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. I was picked up from my htel early morning and then transferred to Gatun lake. My adventure began with a scenic boat ride on Gatun Lake, one of the essential components of the Panama Canal. As we cruised through vast artificial lake, it was an incredible mix of nature and infrastructure. Towering cargo ships passed by just yards away, while the lake’s shores are alive with tropical wildlife — including monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds. It’s a rare opportunity to see both engineering marvels and untouched jungle in a single view.
After the lake tour we travelled by bus through the Panamanian countryside toward the Atlantic side. Along the way, our guide shared insights into the culture, geography, and significance of this vital region.
Our next stop is the Agua Clara Locks, part of the expanded Panama Canal system. From the observation deck, we watched colossal ships pass through the modern locks and learn how this engineering feat reshaped global trade. The views are spectacular, and the perspective is unforgettable — perfect for travelers curious about how the canal truly works.
From there, the journey continued to Fort San Lorenzo, a historic 17th-century Spanish fortress perched on a cliff high above the Caribbean Sea. Before exploring the fort, we enjoyed hot and fresh Panamanian lunch served on-site, with sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding rainforest — a peaceful and picturesque break in your day.
After lunch we walked the grounds of the ancient fort. Learn how it once defended the region from pirates and foreign powers, explore its weathered stone ruins, and then saw original cannons still aimed toward the sea. The dramatic setting and fascinating history made this a highlight of the tour. I was dropped back to my hotel by afternoon . After that I spent the my final afternoon and evening walking around and capturing some nightscapes .
