Just as dusk settled over Panama City, skyscrapers glowed against the edge of dense rainforest, hinting at a destination where modern energy meets untamed nature. A fitting first impression of a country where adventure begins almost as soon as the plane lands.

Reaching Panama has never been easier for U.S. travellers, with Copa Airlines offering reliable service across 17 U.S. gateways. Recently recognised as Latin America’s most punctual airline, it offers a smooth gateway into a country where the journey quickly unfolds beyond the skyline, toward islands, culture, and the turquoise horizons of the San Blas archipelago.

Arriving late at night at the elegant lobby of Waldorf Astoria Panama, check-in was seamless; the kind of quiet luxury where every detail feels anticipated. Upstairs, the room overlooked the city’s modern skyline, and dinner arrived shortly afterwards on polished silver trays. The city hummed faintly below, but inside the room, everything felt calm and unhurried. Tomorrow’s adventure would begin before sunrise, thoughtfully arranged by the hotel’s concierge, the only concierge in Panama certified by Les Clefs d’Or.

Early the following morning, the streets were still dark when departing for the Caribbean coast.

The drive wound through lush jungle hills as dawn slowly brightened the horizon. A little over two-and-a-half hours later, arrival at the small port of Cartí brought a smile and sense of wonder to the beauty beyond.

A short boat ride cut across brilliant turquoise water toward a waiting catamaran operated by San Blas Onboard, welcoming the day’s adventure. The open sea stretched endlessly ahead while the view aboard the catamaran gave way to hundreds of tiny islands scattered across some of the clearest water in the Caribbean.

Lunch was served aboard while overlooking palm trees leaning over powdery white sandbars, while coral reefs shimmered beneath the surface. Upon anchoring at Dog Island (Perro Chico – Assudub Bibbi), a Coco Loco (a creamy Caribbean tropical cocktail made with a mix of rum, vodka, and tequila) was presented while basking beneath the swaying palm trees above.

The islands belong to the Indigenous Guna people, whose communities govern the region and protect its traditions, ensuring safety and warm hospitality. The waters surrounding the island beckoned for a swim and to see fish, coral and starfish below. Back aboard the catamaran, a fresh dinner was presented while the sun disappeared behind distant islands and night called for stargazing in a sky dense with stars.

Morning arrived quietly with warm wind and the rhythmic sound of water against the hull. A final stop at two more islands led to a final swim and suntan before the return journey to Panama City.

Following freshening up after a day at sea, the evening began with a mixology experience at the hotel’s sophisticated lounge, Peacock Alley. Dinner followed at Matiz, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, where a tasting menu transformed local ingredients into elegant dishes.

The next morning’s journey began early once again, with a drive chauffeured by PBA Holding Group to the Emberá community, the Indigenous people of Panama. Locals met us on their Piragua (Emberá native boats) before a short ride to a cascading waterfall for a dip, and then an invitation to their vibrant community. Here, they shared dances, traditional crafts, and stories of rainforest life, an experience shaped by centuries of connection between culture and nature.

A drive toward the rainforest surrounding Gatun Lake – a vast body of water that feeds the famous Panama Canal – led to a small dock with boats awaiting passengers for the afternoon’s adventure. Along massive commercial vessels heading anxiously, awaiting their turn to pass through the Panama Canal, jungle-covered islands with wildlife quickly appeared. White-faced capuchin monkeys leapt through branches, howler monkeys called from deep in the canopy, and tiny titi monkeys watched curiously from the trees.

Back at Waldorf Astoria Panama, afternoon tea began shortly afterwards. Alongside a beautiful porcelain teak kettle and matching cup and plates, tiered trays displayed delicate pastries and savoury bites. A refined pause in the middle of an otherwise adventurous journey, before a relaxing massage at the hotel’s award-winning spa followed, easing tired muscles and preparing for one final evening in the city.

The night continued with a visit to the historic quarter of Casco Antiguo. The district carries centuries of stories – from Spanish colonial beginnings to the global crossroads Panama has become today. Cobblestone streets wound between colonial buildings, colourful balconies, and lively plazas, which was the setting for a memorable dinner.

The next, and final, morning’s adventure was one that has dazzled visitors for over a century. Standing beside the locks of the Panama Canal, massive cargo ships slowly rose as water levels shifted inside the chambers. The precision and scale of the canal, one of the world’s great engineering achievements, was quite the spectacle.

Later, the road continued along the scenic Amador Causeway, while vendors served cups of colourful raspado, Panama’s beloved shaved-ice treat. Lunch took place at El Nacional, where classic Panamanian dishes had been thoughtfully adapted with plant-based ingredients. Vegan tamales, yuca ceviche, lentil soup, and vegetable croquettes delivered the comforting flavours of traditional cuisine with a modern twist.

By mid-afternoon, it was time to head to the airport and embark on a journey experiencing a narrow land bridging oceans, cultures, and histories.

Written by Jarone Ashkenazi for Luxuria Lifestyle International