About This Trip
Trip Highlights
- Explore the second biggest coral reef in the eastern Pacific, in the Gulf of Chiriquí. 800 species of fish, 33 species of sharks, and 20 species of cetaceans can be found in this extremely productive ecosystem.
- Travel to Isla Uvas and the Islas Secas Archipelago, two rarely visited gems of the Panamanian Pacific.
- Snorkel the warm, calm seas at Bocas del Toro, home to hundreds of different sponges, seahorses, tropical fish, and almost 80 coral species.
Panama is a country full of hidden treasures. This small country is the bridge between continents and the narrow division between two oceans, a unique position that has bestowed it with enormous biodiversity. During this 9-day trip the focus will be on visits to the main marine conservation areas on both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans and enjoy Panamá’s outstanding Marine National Park System. On our itinerary are three important marine protected areas: Isla de Coiba, Golfo de Chiriquí on the Pacific side, and Bastimentos (Bocas del Toro area) on the Caribbean side.
Don't miss -> Meet Three of Panama's Best Marine Parks
There will be plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and wildlife observation. Transportation on this trip is a combination of country sightseeing road transfers, scenic and sometimes bumpy boat transfers, and a domestic flight back to Panama City from Bocas del Toro. We will also visit the famous Panama Canal. Join us on this engaging comparative exploration of the Pacific and Caribbean marine ecosystems of Panamá!
Notes on Trip Costs
Trip price does not include international airfare, but does include domestic flight from Bocas del Toro to Panama City. Limited single supplement at $895. Click here for our full expedition terms and conditions.
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Conservation Impact
Established in 1969, Oceanic Society stands as the oldest nonprofit organization in America committed to ocean conservation. We are trailblazers in the realm of "eco travel," crafting expeditions that not only align with our charitable mission but also actively support marine research and conservation efforts globally. Moreover, with every booking made, we take pride in sponsoring the removal of 200 lbs. of plastic waste from the ocean. Dive deeper into our innovative travel approach here.
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
The following itinerary is provided for informational purposes and is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond our control. Accommodations may be substituted with comparable hotels based on the final group needs or changes to the itinerary. Note: (B, L, D) denotes the meals provided each day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Day 1: Panama City
After arrival you will be transferred to our hotel in the Casco Viejo neighborhood, the historical center of Panama City. Early arrivals can join a walking tour around Casco Viejo. This evening we will have a welcome dinner with introductions and trip orientation. Overnight at Hotel Villa Palma, Casco Viejo, Panama City. (D)
Day 2: Panama Canal - Pacific Coast
Day 3: Isla Coiba National Park
Day 4: Boca Chica
Day 5: Isla Secas
Day 6: Bocas del Toro Archipelago
Day 7: Snorkeling Bastimentos National Marine Park
Day 8: Bocas del Toro - Panama City
Day 9: Fly home
Transfer to International airport of Panama City, a 45-minute drive from the Casco Viejo depending on flight departure time. (B)
For a detailed itinerary, please email expeditions@oceanicsociety.org
Accommodations
Participants will stay in a variety of hotels that offer a balance of comfort, amenities, and proximity to our planned activities.
- Hotel Villa Palma in Panama City or similar
- Hotel Santa Catalina in Santa Catalina
- Hotel Bocas del Mar in Boca Chica
- Hotel Divers Paradise in Isla Colón, Bocas del Toro

Pool views at Hotel Bocas del Mar
Naturalist(s)
Your expedition will be led by one or more of the following expert naturalist guides: