Feb 17: Check in & relax at hotel

TRYP by Wyndham (or similar class accommodations)

Evening Reception for Gone Getaways participants.

Feb 18: Embark on a full-day journey through the heart of Panama City—an immersive experience that seamlessly blends the city’s storied past with its vibrant present. This guided adventure reveals the many layers of Panama City, from its colonial foundations and multicultural traditions to its modern marvels and global significance.

Begin your exploration at Panamá Viejo, the original site of the city founded in 1519 by Spanish settlers. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these hauntingly beautiful ruins offer a glimpse into the earliest chapter of Panama's urban history, where crumbling cathedrals and ancient stone walls whisper tales of pirates, conquests, and resilience.

Continue to Mi Pueblito, a charming open-air village museum where you’ll step inside life-sized replicas of traditional Afro-Caribbean, Indigenous, and rural Panamanian homes. This cultural enclave showcases the rich diversity of Panama’s people, traditions, and lifestyles—all set against the lush backdrop of Ancon Hill.

Next, dive into the legacy of those who built one of the world’s most important engineering feats at the Afro-Antillean Museum. Housed in a former church, this intimate museum is alive with color, emotion, and history. Through powerful murals, personal artifacts, and reconstructed living spaces, you’ll uncover the story of the 30,000+ Afro-Caribbean laborers who played a pivotal role in constructing the Panama Canal. It’s a poignant, eye-opening tribute to their enduring influence on Panamanian culture.

After a delicious lunch of authentic Panamanian cuisine in a local eatery, the afternoon unfolds in Casco Viejo, the city’s beautifully restored colonial district. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with 17th-century churches, quaint plazas, and vibrant architecture, each corner brimming with stories of revolution, rebirth, and cultural fusion. As another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Casco Viejo is a living museum that perfectly captures Panama's blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair.

Throughout the day, our expert local guide will share stories, insights, and hidden gems, connecting the dots between Panama’s diverse cultural threads. This tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into what makes Panama City one of the most dynamic and culturally rich capitals in the Americas.

Feb 19: Set off on an unforgettable exploration of one of the most extraordinary engineering feats of the 20th century with our Panama Canal Tour. This engaging experience invites you to discover the fascinating history, awe-inspiring infrastructure, and striking natural surroundings of the legendary Panama Canal.

Our adventure begins as we cross the Bridge of the Americas, a vital connection between the North and South American continents. We'll pause at a scenic viewpoint to admire the sweeping vistas of the canal and its busy waterway.

Next, we travel to the Amador Causeway, a picturesque stretch linking four small Pacific islands. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Panama City skyline and the canal’s Pacific entrance — a perfect spot for memorable photos.

We then visit the Goethals Monument, a stunning white Vermont marble structure honoring George Washington Goethals, the chief engineer behind the construction of the canal. From here, you can glimpse the historic Panama Canal Administration Building, nestled just behind the monument.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, the most popular viewing point along the canal. Watch massive ships navigate the locks from spacious viewing platforms, explore the engaging interactive museum exhibits, and gain deeper insights into the canal’s operations and global impact.

Finally, we’ll step into the Panama Canal IMAX Theater to watch "Panama Canal: A Land Divided, A World United", a captivating 45-minute 3D documentary that brings the story of the canal to life.

Feb 20: Hop aboard the newest and largest catamaran in Panama for a 6-hour tropical escape designed to make the most of your day. Whether you're lounging on the open sundecks, dancing to upbeat music, or sipping a cool drink from the open bar, you'll feel the stress melt away as the city fades into the distance.

The cruise will take you to a beautiful virgin bay, where you can swim in turquoise waters, stroll along an unspoiled beach, and explore the charming Island Village nearby. If you're feeling adventurous, grab a snorkel and discover the colorful marine life beneath the surface—or simply stretch out under a palm tree and soak in the laid-back island vibes.

Throughout the day, enjoy tasty snacks, a delicious lunch, and vibrant onboard animation and music to keep the energy lively and fun. With shaded areas to relax and open spaces to dance or sunbathe, this excursion has something for everyone.

Perfectly timed to avoid the tropical afternoon showers and leave your evening free for more fun, this beach and boat adventure delivers unforgettable views, delicious flavors, and moments of pure Caribbean bliss. As the sun begins to dip toward the horizon, you’ll head back to Panama City with salty skin, sandy toes, and a heart full of island memories.

Feb 21: Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from your hotel to the edge of the rainforest, where you'll glide along the serene waters of the Chagres River in a traditional motorized dugout canoe, surrounded by vibrant jungle and the sounds of tropical birds and wildlife. Your destination: an authentic Emberá village, home to one of Panama’s most welcoming and culturally rich indigenous communities.

Before reaching the village, you’ll take a short jungle hike through the rainforest to a hidden waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip or a moment of quiet reflection in nature’s untouched beauty.

Once at the village, the Emberá people will welcome you with open arms and warm smiles. In a traditional palm-thatched hut, enjoy live music and dance performances that pulse with the rhythms of the forest. Engage in meaningful conversations with village elders, learn about their ancestral customs, and observe how they live in harmony with the land, embracing a simple and sustainable way of life.

You’ll savor a delicious traditional lunch of freshly fried fish, plantains, and tropical fruits, lovingly prepared by the community. Afterward, explore their remarkable handcrafts—vibrant woven baskets, intricate wood carvings, and natural jewelry.

Feb 22: Take the day to do whatever makes you feel good in vibrant Panama City. Wander at your own pace and soak in the city's unique blend of culture, flavor, and charm. You might start with a stroll along the Cinta Costera, where the ocean breeze and skyline views set the tone for a relaxing day. From there, dive into the local scene—whether that means exploring colorful street markets filled with handmade crafts or sipping on a cup of world-famous Geisha coffee at a cozy café.

If you're in the mood to treat yourself, head to Albrook Mall, the largest shopping center in Latin America, for some serious retail therapy. When hunger strikes, enjoy a long, leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in the bold, fresh flavors of Panamanian cuisine.

For those looking to take in the city from a different perspective, a hike or drive up Ancon Hill offers sweeping panoramic views and a peaceful retreat from the urban buzz.

Whether you're chasing adventure or just letting the day unfold, your free day in Panama City is all about connecting with the spirit of the city.

Departure Date: Monday, February 23, 2026