Panama Tours and Cruises

• Ponant - the only cruise company sailing under the French flag, can dock in private ports and offer stopovers in preserved locations. Panama is world-famous for its canal, but it has much more to offer. While transiting the Panama Canal highlights every Central American cruise, interactions with animals and indigenous people are likely to create lasting memories.
• Lindblad Expeditions - Over 50+ years of exploration, its veteran staff, and the quality companionship they provide have established its reputation. Discover an astonishing trove of natural and cultural treasures as you navigate the Caribbean coast of Panama aboard the National Geographic Quest. Hike through deep rainforests rich in biodiversity, explore remote inlets by Zodiac or kayak, and meet the indigenous people of a remote Panamanian archipelago where age-old customs still exist.
• Variety Cruises - the Greek cruise line crosses the legendary Panama Canal, venturing deep into the countries' national parks searching for macaws, sloths, howler monkeys, and dolphins with an onboard naturalist on the Panorama. 
• UnCruise - Almost 25 years later, innovation continues to be at the core of its motto. The newly refurbished, upscale 62-guest Safari Voyager explores Panama's coasts, jungles, and islands.
• Star Clippers Americas - have a complimentary water sports program that lets passengers borrow snorkeling equipment for the duration of the cruise. The 166-passenger Star Clipper, a true sailing ship, will be calling on ports in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, and its famed canal starting November 2022. 
• Aurora Expeditions - is all about exploration. Led by specialists, enjoy a daily program of activities and shore excursions. Depending on the itinerary you choose, you can look forward to Zodiac trips twice daily and the opportunity to land ashore in places few are ever fortunate enough to visit. Join its inaugural Panama Canal voyage and traverse the iconic Panama Canal on guaranteed daylight crossing from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea aboard Greg Mortimer.

Panama Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the accommodations like?

In Panama, we have selected a variety of charming accommodations ranging from tropical garden villas to comfortable city hotels with all of the modern conveniences. In general, we use small, family-run accommodations that are locally owned and characteristic of each area instead of luxury chain resorts. For more information, check out our Panama Lodging page to view pictures of our standard hotels/ lodges.

Do I need a converter/ adapter for the electricity?

Panama typically uses 110 volt electricity, same as the US. However, there are unpredictable variations with some sockets that are 220 volts. Ask the hotel before plugging in your devices. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a plug adapter (unless your device requires 3 prongs).

Are meals included?

Yes and no. We have tried to balance flexibility and convenience regarding meal options. For this reason, we include meals on any of our tour days when you are traveling off the beaten path where restaurant choices are limited. In the major towns, where there are a wide variety of restaurants, we generally do not include meals, to allow our travelers the flexibility of choosing their own food preferences. Your tour leader or hotel staff can recommend some great restaurant options. Your hotel will also provide a light continental breakfast on these days. Included meals are listed in parenthesis next to the tour itinerary on each tour page. An estimated meal budget can also be found under Personal Budgeting toward the bottom of the itinerary on the tour pages.

What type of transportation is used?

Our Panama tours utilize a variety of transportation including private vans/ cars, minibuses, jeep, boat, train, flights, etc. We use a mix of private/ public transportation to provide travelers with the safest and most efficient transportation in each area. Each tour itinerary page has a description of the transportation included on that tour. If you have additional questions, just ask!

What type of planes are used on internal flights?

In general, small commuter planes are used on internal flights. These are typically propeller planes with a capacity of 20-40 passengers.

What type of food is typical of Panama?

Panama's cuisine is indicative of both its northern and southern neighbors. Travelers can find the rice, beans, tamales, and tortillas common to Central America as well as the ceviche (cold seafood soup) and empanadas (fried corn tortillas filled with meat) of South America. The national dish is sancocho, a spicy stew with chicken and vegetables. Seafood is also plentiful and delicious.

Do tour rates include international flights?

Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. You are welcome to book these on your own, or we can certainly help you arrange these flights with an airfare consolidator who specializes in Central America flights.

How do I get to the hotel from the airport when I arrive?

We can arrange an airport transfer for you or you can take a local taxi. Taxis are usually less expensive, though some travelers prefer the convenience of having someone waiting for them at the airport when they arrive, especially after an exhausting flight. Please let us know your preference!

How much should I budget for tips?

Tips are not required on any of our tours. However, it is customary in Latin America to offer a small tip for exceptional service. Tipping amounts vary widely, though some travelers report that ~$2-$10/ day for your guide and ~$1-$3/ day for your driver is common. Other travelers opt to bring small gifts from their home to give to service providers along the way.

Are tour dates flexible?

YES. Please contact us if you are not able to travel on the set departure dates listed online. Most tours can be arranged on alternative departure dates for a minimum of two travelers as long as lodges/ hotels are available.

Can I extend or change my stay?

Absolutely! Extra days can also be arranged in most areas if desired. Let us know how you would like to customize your trip and we will do our best to accommodate you.

What should I pack?

You will receive a detailed packing list after you book your tour. Bring long sleeves and a fleece/ sweater for cool evenings and plenty of comfortable, breathable clothes for hot days. Good walking shoes and sun protection are also a must. Many trips include whitewater rafting, so be sure to bring an extra pair of shoes that you don't mind getting wet!