Activities & Excursions
We’ve curated a diverse selection activities available as part of our Custom Group Retreats. Most are within 30–90 minutes from our retreat center and offer opportunities to connect more deeply with Panama, with your group, and with yourself.
If you’re seeking unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path adventures in Panama, we’ll make them happen. Each experience is crafted to immerse you in the country’s natural beauty, spark authentic cultural connections, and bring your group closer together. What you take home are meaningful memories and a deeper bond with both Panama and one another — the kind that lasts long after your trip.
Ideas to Get You Started:
Adventures That Connect You to Panama
Adventures on the Water
Explore Panama’s stunning waters with options for every adventure level—perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures Panama is known for.
Wave Rider Surf Sessions
Ride the waves with expert instruction tailored to all skill levels in a fun, small group setting. Whether you're a beginner or experienced surfer, get ready for an unforgettable surf adventure! The experience includes transportation, equipment, and personalized coaching.
$65 per person (min. 4, smaller groups for an added fee)
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
The Mangroves Tour is perfect for those with some SUP experience, offering a chance to paddle through lush mangroves. For beginners, the Laguna de San Carlos Tour provides a serene mountain lake for easy exploration. Includes transportation, equipment, and snacks.
$65 per person (min. 6 people)
Whale Watching & Snorkeling
Seasonal activity! Available July-October.
Experience one of the most memorable outdoor adventures Panama offers—whale watching and snorkeling in its pristine waters. This tour also includes a visit to a local fishing village. Boxed lunch, snorkeling gear, and transportation included.
$135 per person (min. 6 people).
Gatun Lake & Monkey Island Trip
This full-day excursion combines boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing at Gatun Lake and Monkey Island. Ride through the countryside, cross a section of the Panama Canal by boat, and spot tropical birds, monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife along the way. Includes transportation, boxed breakfast, and lunch.
$135 per person (min. 6 people).
Rainforest and Waterfall Hikes
Get up close with Panama’s incredible natural beauty, from hidden waterfalls to vibrant rainforests—hikes ideal choices for anyone looking to enjoy outdoor adventures Panama provides beyond the beach.
Cloud Forest Zipline & Artisan Market Visit
Experience one of the top outdoor adventures Panama has to offer: Soar above waterfalls, explore a volcanic crater, and shop artisan markets. Includes ziplining, transportation, and time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included).
$120 per person (min. 6 people)
Volcanic Crater Hike & Artisan Market
Experience our most popular hiking excursion: Lush trails, stunning waterfalls, and a visit to an artisan market in a volcanic crater. Option to add ziplining (additional fee). Includes transportation and a chance to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included).
$65 per person (min. 6 people)
Custom Waterfall Hikes & Nature Tours
Embark on a custom waterfall hike, tailored to your fitness level and interests. On these guided trips, you’ll likely spot some of Panama’s tropical birds, wildlife (sloths and monkeys!), and exotic plants along the way. Includes round-trip transportation and a personalized hiking experience.
$65 per person (min. 6 people)
Cultural Experiences and Immersive Tours
Experience the heart and soul of Panama through guided cultural tours that connect you to local traditions, stories, and history. These experiences are a meaningful part of the outdoor adventures Panama offers—perfect for curious travelers who want to connect deeper with place and people.
Embera Indigenous Village Day
Dive into Panama’s rich indigenous culture with an unforgettable day of canoe rides, vibrant traditional dances, and guided tours through a beautiful Embera village. Meet local artisans, learn ancient traditions, and experience the heart of the culture. Includes transportation and a light lunch.
$135 per person (min. 6 people).
Panama City & Panama Canal Trip
Uncover the wonders of Panama City, from the iconic Panama Canal to the historic Casco Viejo district. Walk cobblestone streets, explore colonial architecture, and marvel at the Canal’s engineering feats. Includes transportation and Canal entrance fee. (Lunch in Casco Antiguo not included.)
$130 per person (min. 6 people).
Beach Getaway & Artisan Market
Relax on a beautiful, sandy beach with a bar and restaurant. Swim, relax with a book, sunbathe, and soak in the views before returning to Istmo. On the way back, stop at a local artisan market to shop unique handmade treasures for souvenirs. Includes transportation. (Meals and drinks not included.)
$20 per person (min. 6 people)
On-Site Activities at Istmo Retreat
For families and groups who want to stay close to home base, Istmo offers plenty of fun and enriching options right on site.
Relaxing Massage Therapy
Indulge in a massage designed to melt away stress and restore your body and mind. Perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure, this therapeutic experience will leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed, and reconnected—ready to fully enjoy the rest of your retreat.
$65 per hour
Relax & Revive Yoga Classes
Find inner peace and stretch yourself with rejuvenating yoga classes suitable for all levels and ages. Set in a serene, exclusive environment surrounded by nature, it’s the perfect way to center yourself, recharge, and connect more deeply during your stay.
$18 per person
(min. 6 people)
Energizing Latin & Salsa Classes
Feel the rhythm and spice up your stay with a fun Latin and salsa dance class that will get you moving! These classes are for all ages. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, it's the perfect way to embrace the culture and enjoy the energy of the music.
$18 per person
(min. 6 people)
Cultural Experiences
Bring Panama's culture directly to your group. We can arrange on-site cultural programming tailored to your retreat—host indigenous artisans at our center, organize Spanish language workshops, or design activities that align with your group's interests and goals.
Price varies by activity. Contact us to discuss options.
Secluded Beach
Just a 5-minute walk from Istmo, this stunning beach is accessed via a picturesque country road. With miles of black and white sand, rainforest shade, and calm waters perfect for swimming, it’s one of the most relaxing outdoor adventures in Panama.
Free
Walk the Labyrinth
The labyrinth offers a peaceful space for reflection, relaxing, and renewal. Walking through the labyrinth provides a mindful experience; quiet your mind, practice mindfulness, solve problems, or find peace and clarity in nature.
Free
Explore Nature Trails
Istmo’s 4-acre property features a intact rainforest and a scenic walking trail leading to a natural pond. Discover fruit trees like mango, citrus with wild tropical fruits while encountering wildlife such as tamarin monkeys, motmots, and iguanas.
Free
Community Service
Join us for a community service activity; it’s a meaningful way to connect with the community and make a positive impact during your stay. Learn more about our programmatic approach to community service on our About Us page.
For Retreat Leaders & Educators
Get curated retreat offers, travel secrets from locals, and first dibs on what’s new in Panama.