Digital Detox Retreat in Panama

We're a small, family-owned retreat center nestled in Panama's pacific coast, founded by returned Peace Corps volunteers Sean and Ayesha Davis. With decades of combined experience in education, international development, and environmental engineering, we've created a sanctuary where people can truly disconnect and reconnect—with nature, with each other, and with themselves. We're not a resort or hotel. We're a family welcoming you into our home, where every detail is designed to help you slow down, breathe deeply, and remember what it feels like to be fully present.

Our Digital Detox Retreat includes airport transfers, dinner on the first night, 3 meals daily, breakfast on the last morning, daily yoga, a SUP class at Playa Grande (our local beach), and a final bonfire. You'll enjoy a private, air-conditioned bungalow, all meals prepared by our private chef, and daily housekeeping. Optional (not included) activities include surfing, massage, waterfall hikes, stand-up paddleboarding and more.

You can choose what works best for you! We offer three accommodation options: shared quad bungalows (4 guests, most affordable and social), shared double bungalows (2 double beds, perfect for couples or friends), or private single bungalows (your own space for maximum rest and privacy). All bungalows are air-conditioned with comfortable beds and private bathrooms.

Let us know ahead of time and we will only take it for the time you want—we recommend a 3-night minimum to experience the full benefits. When you have your device back, please only use it in the designated rancho area away from other participants to preserve everyone's tech-free experience.

Yes! While our signature experience is 7 days/6 nights (which we've found is the ideal length for a true reset), we offer customized shorter stays with a 3-night minimum. Pricing varies based on length of stay and accommodation type. Contact us directly to discuss options and availability.

We’re just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Panama City, and only 10 minutes from the town of Coronado.

If you need to pick up anything, Coronado has supermarkets, pharmacies, shops, and even a modern clinic with English-speaking doctors. At Istmo, you get the best of both worlds—immersed in nature while having convenient amenities nearby.

Fly into Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City.

Yes! Roundtrip airport or city transfers are included in all Digital Detox Retreat packages.  

If you want to stay longer at Istmo or join us in between a retreat, that is always possible! Just contact us before booking so we can help you out. We’re also happy to recommend options for extending your trip in Panama! 

Panama enjoys a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy (green) season.

• Dry season (Mid-December to Mid-April): Expect sunny, warm weather with little to no rain—ideal for escaping the cold up North.
• Transitional season (Late April to Early May): The dry season shifts into the green season, so you may experience a mix of sunny and rainy days as the lush season begins.
• Green/rainy season (June to November): This is our favorite time of year when the countryside is at its greenest. Afternoon rain showers are common but typically short, lasting no more than two hours. Most of the day remains clear for outdoor activities, and the rain offers a refreshing break from the heat. 
• Rainiest months (October & November): While these are the wettest months, rain usually comes in short bursts, so it’s rare to experience all-day rain. Tropical showers are often a welcome cool down.

We’re about 1 hour 45 minutes from PTY, depending on traffic.

Panama uses the US dollar.

Most travelers from the US, Canada, Europe, and many other countries do not need a visa. Learn more about Panama’s visa policy.

You’ll have a running tab for optional extras like smoothies, massages, surfing lessons, and excursions payable by cash or credit card at checkout.

Yes! All meals are included in your stay. Enjoy three delicious meals a day, freshly prepared by our private chef using locally sourced ingredients. This includes dinner on arrival day and breakfast on departure day. We accommodate all dietary preferences and offer a daily fresh fruit snack to keep you energized.

Please note that dining at restaurants outside of Istmo is not included. 

Absolutely! We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. Just let us know in advance.

During regular hours, an English-speaking hospital is just a 15-minute drive from our property. For emergencies after 9 PM, there is a 24-hour public hospital only 7 minutes away. Additionally, our owner, Sean Davis, is a trained EMT, and in case of an emergency, we’ll personally assist in getting you to the nearest clinic.

Please note that we require all participants to purchase travel insurance, as we are not liable for medical expenses. You will also be asked to complete a waiver form before your stay.

Our retreat is located in a small, safe rural and beach community. With our three friendly dogs as our 24-hour security, we’ve never felt the need for a fence or a security guard. We do recommend general safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended on the beach and avoid solo trips to the beach too early or too late.

Overall, Panama is a very safe country for travelers, and we are confident you’ll feel at ease during your stay.

In most areas of Panama, including Istmo Retreat, the tap water is generally considered safe to drink. However, if you're staying in more rural areas or places where water quality may vary, it's recommended to drink bottled or purified water for peace of mind.

At Istmo, we provide purified drinking water for all our guests to ensure you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your stay.

During the day, mosquitos are not a problem. They typically come out at dawn and dusk, so we recommend wearing light long sleeves and pants or using bug spray during those times.