Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Panama City

Arrive in Panama City and meet your Travel Director. Transfer to the hotel and settle in, followed by a guided neighborhood orientation walk introducing students to daily life, food culture, and geography in Panama’s capital. Enjoy a welcome dinner and group icebreaker activities to build connections and set expectations for the week.

Day 2 – Panama Canal & Rainforest Zipline Adventure

Begin the day with a guided visit to the Panama Canal, where students learn how this engineering marvel reshaped global trade and why Panama plays such a critical role in the world economy.

In the afternoon, head into the rainforest and take part in a zipline and ropes course experience featuring canopy ziplines, suspension bridges, climbing elements, and obstacle challenges high above the jungle floor—an exciting way to experience Panama’s rainforest up close.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Panamanian music and dance experience, featuring folkloric rhythms, colorful dress, and live performances. Students learn about the cultural roots of the music and are invited to participate through guided instruction.

Day 3 – Local School Exchange & Cultural Workshop

Spend the morning visiting a local Panamanian school to meet students and educators. Through structured conversations, collaborative games, and shared activities, students gain insight into school life and youth culture in Panama.

In the afternoon, take part in a hands-on cultural workshop such as traditional craft-making, mask design, or drumming, connecting Panama’s artistic traditions to its history and identity.

Tonight, sudents take part in a hands-on cooking class focused on traditional Panamanian dishes such as empanadas, patacones, or arroz con pollo. Guided by local instructors, students learn about ingredients, food traditions, and how Panamanian cuisine reflects Indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences.

Day 4 – Portobelo Caribbean History Day Trip

Travel to the Caribbean coast for a full-day excursion to Portobelo, once one of Spain’s most important colonial ports.

Explore historic forts, colonial ruins, and the Church of the Black Christ while learning about Panama’s role in Spanish trade routes, Afro-Caribbean culture, and global commerce. Return to Panama City in the evening.

Day 5 – Emberá Cultural Exchange & Gatun Lake Wildlife Safari

Travel by canoe into the rainforest to visit an Emberá community, where students learn about traditional music, crafts, medicinal plants, and daily life through hands-on demonstrations and respectful cultural exchange.

In the afternoon, enjoy a wildlife boat safari on Gatun Lake, spotting monkeys, birds, and other tropical species while learning how the lake supports Panama Canal operations.

Tonight, return to the city for a farewell group dinner!

Day 6 – Departure

Early morning transfer to the airport for return flight home.