History, Nature, and Canal Adventures

Day 1: Exploration of Casco Antiguo and Metropolitan Nature Park

Morning:
Arrive in Panama City.

Meet your Zoni Tour Manager at the hotel for luggage drop off.

Afternoon:
Have lunch at a local restaurant on your own.

Take a guided walking tour of Casco Antiguo (the Old Town), exploring its historic streets and colonial architecture. Take in the famous golden altar at the Iglesia San José and check out the views from Paseo Esteban Huertas.

Visit the Canal Museum to learn about the countries that have had a hand in the construction and operation of this engineering marvel.

Explore the Mola Museum where you will discover the art and culture of Panama's indigenous Guna communities. Using a form of reverse applique, the Guna create lush textiles with beautiful geometric designs which are incorporated into their everyday attire as well as decorative items.

Take a leisurely stroll in the Metropolitan Nature Park for a taste of Panama's biodiversity. Panama City is the only world capital with a rainforest within its city limits. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in this urban oasis.

Evening:
Eat dinner at a local restaurant where you'll be introduced to Panamanian flavors.

Return to the hotel and rest for the next day's adventures.

Day 2: Amador Causeway, Biodiversity, and Panama Viejo

Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.

Head out on a walking tour of the Amador Causeway, enjoying views of the Bridge of the Americas. This Causeway was built using the stones that were excavated in the construction of the Canal. Today, it's a perfect place to take a walk, do some shopping, and watch the ships prepare to enter the Canal.

Visit the BioMuseo where you'll learn to appreciate the impact of the isthmus of Panama on the world. Here, north meets south and Pacific meets Atlantic creating a hotbed of biodiversity that is virtually unparalleled.

Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery on your own.

Head to the Punta Culebra Nature Center home to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, where students can experience Panama's coastal ecosystems, observe marine life, and enjoy interactive exhibits. If you're lucky, you'll spot a sloth or an armadillo!

Continue the educational journey with a visit to Panama Viejo, the ruins of the original Panama City. Explore the historic grounds and learn about the founding of the area.

Evening:
Enjoy dinner with a view at a local restaurant.

Return to the hotel and relax after a long day.

Day 3: Isla Taboga

Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.

Take a ferry to Isla Taboga. This tiny island boasts connections to pirates, saints, and French painters. Prepare for a day of stunning natural beauty. Start with a hike up Cerro Vigia for panoramic island views and encounter wildlife on your way up.

Return to the town to visit the second oldest church in the Western Hemisphere, Iglesia de San Pedro.

Afternoon:
Have lunch in town on your own before heading to the beach for some swimming and sunbathing.

Evening:
Return to Panama City.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to the hotel.

Day 4: Panama Canal Cruise

Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.

Depart for the highlight of your trip: a Panama Canal Cruise.

Afternoon:
Opened in 1914 after ten years of construction, the Panama Canal is a marvel of engineering that changed the world forever. Every day, 32 ships pass through this famed thoroughfare and today you will be among them. Over the course of this trip, you will journey through the Miraflores Locks, Miraflores Lake, Pedro Miguel Locks, the Corte Culebra, and Lake Gatún. Take in Panama's stunning landscape as you cruise from bustling Panama City through rainforests and mountains to the Caribbean city of Colon where you will disembark.

Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Return to Panama City by bus and arrive at your hotel to rest.

Day 5: Fort San Lorenzo, Portobelo, and Beach Visit

Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.

Depart for Fort San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historical fort, learn about its significance, and enjoy panoramic views of the Chagres River and the Caribbean Sea.

Continue to the historic town of Portobelo, known for its rich history and well-preserved colonial architecture. Founded in 1597, Portobelo served as one of the principal routes for the shipment of riches from Peru to Spain and was the site of many pirate battles.

Afternoon:
Enjoy a delicious lunch on your own at a local restaurant.

Explore more of Portobelo's historic sites, such as the famous Church of San Felipe, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, head to a nearby beach and spend the afternoon relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.

Evening:
Return to Panama City.

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant.

Return to the hotel for a final night in Panama.

Day 6: Departure

Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.

Check-out from the hotel.

Afternoon:
Depart for the airport.

Board your flight and return home remembering everything Panama has to offer.

Educational Enrichment: This itinerary offers a well-rounded educational experience, combining visits to museums, historical sites, and natural wonders, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of Panama's culture, history, and biodiversity.

Cultural Immersion: Students will interact with local communities and explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, fostering cultural awareness and appreciation.

Adventure and Exploration: From hikes in lush natural parks to navigating the Panama Canal's iconic locks, this itinerary provides opportunities for adventure and hands-on learning, making it engaging and memorable for students.

Diverse Experiences: This tour offers a mix of historical, ecological, and recreational activities, catering to a wide range of interests, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience for all participants.

• Spanish is the official language of Panama, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and are appreciated by the locals.
• Panama has a tropical climate with a wet season (May to November) and a dry season (December to April). Weather can vary widely depending on the region you're visiting and the altitudes. Be sure to pack layers so that you can stay comfortable throughout your tour.
• The standard voltage in Panama is 120 volts AC. This voltage is supplied at a frequency of 60 Hz and is the same as what is available in the United States, so you won't need an adapter. Be advised, however, that while power quality in Panama is generally reliable, occasional power outages can occur, especially in more remote areas.
• The official currency is the Panamanian balboa (PAB), but the US dollar (USD) is widely accepted and used interchangeably. It is advised that you carry a small amount of cash in the local currency when you travel, but you will also have access to cash through ATMs throughout the country. Contact your bank before traveling to prevent problems.
• Panama is culturally diverse, with influences from Indigenous, African, European, and Asian cultures. Embrace the local culture and engage with locals in a polite and respectful manner.

• Travel time to and from various parts of the country may modify these itineraries.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
• It is your responsibility to determine if you need a visa to enter Panama, and ensure you have the necessary travel authorizations.
• Itineraries are fully customizable.
• Flexible payment plans are available.