Panama Canal Cruise & Costa Rica Luxury Tour

Colourful welcome sign in Panama City, blending modern flair and tropical charm.

Day 1

Arrive in Panama and feel the pulse of a country where tradition meets modern flair. From the moment you land, the vibrant spirit and tropical warmth of Panama envelop you, offering a taste of what’s to come. Enjoy a seamless transfer to your stylish hotel, where you can relax in refined comfort and soak in the city's dynamic charm. Tonight, unwind and embrace the rhythm of Panama—a captivating prelude to your upcoming journey through Central America's cultural treasures and natural splendour. This is just the beginning of an unforgettable, luxury-guided adventure.

Day 2

Begin your day with a privately guided city tour that unveils the fascinating layers of Panama’s past. Wander through the atmospheric ruins of Old Panama and stroll the cobblestone streets of the beautifully preserved colonial district, where centuries-old churches and vibrant facades tell stories of bygone eras. Savor a curated welcome lunch in an elegant local setting, surrounded by the timeless charm of this historic quarter. As you dine, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry and architectural beauty that define the soul of the city—an inspiring introduction to Panama’s vibrant heritage and your journey ahead.

Dense urban skyline of Panama City with dramatic clouds and calm waters below.

Golden twilight over the waterfront of Panama with boats drifting in calm waters.

Day 3

Today, embark on a captivating partial transit of the legendary Panama Canal—an unforgettable experience through one of the world’s greatest feats of engineering. Navigate the canal’s intricate lock system aboard a shared luxury vessel, witnessing firsthand the precise choreography that lifts and lowers ships between sea levels. As you glide through this iconic waterway, take in sweeping views of the lush, tropical landscapes that frame the canal’s route. With expert commentary illuminating the canal’s profound influence on global trade and maritime history, this journey offers a rare and enriching perspective. Experience the remarkable connection between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in comfort and style—a highlight of your Panamanian adventure.

Day 4

Fly into San José, the lively heart of Costa Rica, where your journey continues with a scenic transfer to a boutique coffee plantation tucked along the fertile slopes of the active Poás Volcano. Here, indulge in an immersive experience that unveils the artistry behind Costa Rica’s world-renowned coffee—from cultivation to cup—set against a backdrop of misty highlands and volcanic vistas. As the day winds down, retreat to your elegant hotel and relax in comfort, surrounded by the natural charm of this lush, mountainous region. Let the flavours, landscapes, and warm hospitality set the tone for the extraordinary cultural and ecological discoveries that lie ahead in this enchanting Central American gem.

Scenic view of Poás Volcano crater with a visitor gazing into its vibrant turquoise waters.

Riverboat cruising through the lush rainforest waterways of Tortuguero, Costa Rica.

Day 5

Set out on a scenic overland drive to Caño Blanco on Costa Rica’s lush Caribbean coast, where your adventure deepens with a captivating boat transfer through the winding waterways of Tortuguero. As you glide past emerald canopies and tranquil backwaters, keep watch for monkeys, toucans, and caimans that call this untouched paradise home. This immersive journey offers more than just transport—it’s an enchanting passage into one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions, where every bend in the river unveils a new natural wonder.

Day 6

Embark on a full day of curated shared excursions through the breathtaking landscapes of Tortuguero, where dense tropical forests and winding canals reveal nature at its most pristine. Led by expert naturalist guides, glide silently along jungle waterways and venture into vibrant rainforest trails, uncovering a mosaic of exotic wildlife and rare flora. From howler monkeys echoing through the canopy to colourful toucans perched overhead, each moment invites awe and connection with this extraordinary ecosystem. This immersive experience offers a rare window into the wild heart of Costa Rica—untouched, unforgettable, and utterly captivating.

Canoe with visitors gliding through lush jungle on a shared tour in Tortuguero National Park.

Nature walk through vibrant rainforest on hanging bridge at La Selva Biological Station.

Day 7

Begin your day with a serene boat ride back through Tortuguero’s scenic canals to Caño Blanco, where your journey transitions inland toward the majestic Arenal region. Along the way, enjoy an enriching visit to La Selva Biological Station, one of the world’s leading centres for tropical rainforest research. Here, gain privileged insight into groundbreaking conservation efforts and ecological studies led by expert researchers. Take a leisurely guided walk through the protected rainforest trails, where the sounds of exotic birdlife and the lush biodiversity offer a deeper connection to Costa Rica’s natural wonders. This meaningful stop infuses your journey with purpose and discovery, adding an educational layer to your scenic route toward Arenal—where volcanic vistas and luxury await.

Day 8

Begin your morning with an enchanting guided exploration through Arenal’s lush rainforest, where a series of trails and suspension bridges offer sweeping views from both the forest floor and its vibrant canopy. Stroll beneath towering trees, spot exotic wildlife, and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of this tropical haven. As evening falls, elevate your experience with an optional visit to Arenal’s renowned hot springs. Nestled in a tranquil natural setting, these mineral-rich waters offer the perfect sanctuary to unwind—an indulgent end to a day of exploration, surrounded by the soothing sights and sounds of the rainforest.

Volcanic peak of Arenal with sweeping rainforest landscape in the foreground in Costa Rica.

Tranquil paddle across Lake Arenal with lush forest and volcano view in Costa Rica.

Day 9

Depart Arenal on a scenic drive that winds along the tranquil shores of Lake Arenal, where mirror-like waters reflect the surrounding volcanic peaks and rolling green hills. As you ascend through misty, forest-cloaked mountains, each turn reveals breathtaking vistas and untouched natural beauty. Arrive in the enchanting cloud forest region of Monteverde, your serene retreat for the next two nights. Nestled in nature’s embrace, this elevated escape offers a peaceful immersion into Costa Rica’s ecological wonders—where cool mountain air, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife create a truly restorative experience.

Day 10

Begin your day with a guided exploration of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a mist-shrouded sanctuary brimming with rare orchids, towering trees, and elusive wildlife. Keep your eyes open for the resplendent quetzal, whose iridescent plumage graces the treetops of this biodiverse paradise. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace—whether you choose to unwind amidst the serene surroundings or embark on an optional adventure, such as a visit to the nearby Santa Elena Reserve. With its pristine trails and panoramic vistas, it offers a deeper dive into this enchanting ecosystem. Today invites you to personalize your experience, blending natural wonder with quiet luxury in the heart of the cloud forest.

Serene jungle waterfall surrounded by dense tropical vegetation in Costa Rica.

Tropical countryside with winding river and lush vegetation near Carara National Park.

Day 11

Venture toward Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, where your journey begins with an exploration of Carara National Park—a biodiverse haven teeming with wildlife. Wander through lush trails and spot crocodiles basking along the riverbanks, playful monkeys in the canopy, and the dazzling scarlet macaws that soar through the treetops. Continue to the serene town of Tárcoles, where you'll settle in for a two-night stay at the charming Villa Lapas Hotel (or a similarly appointed retreat). Nestled in nature, your stay offers a tranquil escape amid tropical forest and riverside beauty. This leg of your adventure promises vibrant wildlife encounters and peaceful moments in one of Costa Rica’s most captivating coastal regions.

Day 12

Set out on a morning excursion to the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park, where lush rainforest trails open onto postcard-perfect beaches. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, explore this compact yet spectacular sanctuary, home to an impressive array of wildlife—from leisurely sloths and sunbathing iguanas to endangered squirrel monkeys and brilliantly coloured tropical birds. As the sun begins to set, celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner at a charming local restaurant near your hotel. Savor the vibrant flavours of Costa Rican cuisine in a relaxed, elegant setting—an unforgettable finale to your time in the coastal paradise of Manuel Antonio.

Trio of squirrel monkeys perched on a tree branch in Manuel Antonio National Park.

San José landmark cathedral with colonial architecture and a vibrant red dome.

Day 13

As your unforgettable journey through Panama and Costa Rica comes to a close, enjoy a comfortable transfer to San José, where your adventure gently transitions to departure. With your heart full and your spirit enriched, prepare for your homebound flight, carrying with you the vivid memories of lush rainforests, pristine coastlines, vibrant cultures, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters. Reflect on the moments that made this private guided luxury tour so extraordinary—the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal, the wildlife-rich waterways of Tortuguero, the majestic presence of Arenal, and the serene beauty of Monteverde and Manuel Antonio. This farewell marks not just the end of a trip, but the beginning of stories you'll share for years to come, curated with care by Jetsetters.

A private guided luxury tour by Jetsetters

Embark on a journey like no other with Uncharted Horizons of Panama and Costa Rica private guided luxury tour by Jetsetters, expertly crafted to immerse you in the best of Central America’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and refined hospitality. From the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to Costa Rica’s biodiverse rainforests and sun-kissed Pacific coast, this exclusive itinerary is designed for travellers who seek meaningful experiences paired with exceptional comfort.

A grand introduction in Panama

Your journey begins in the dynamic capital of Panama City, where colonial history and modern innovation blend seamlessly. Enjoy a guided tour of the historic Casco Viejo and the impressive ruins of Old Panama, followed by a partial transit cruise through the world-renowned Panama Canal—a once-in-a-lifetime experience showcasing one of the greatest feats in maritime engineering. Your stay is complemented by the refined elegance of Hotel Grano de Oro, a charming boutique property that captures the soul of the city with its warm ambiance and impeccable service.

Into Costa Rica’s wild beauty

Fly to Costa Rica to explore its richly diverse landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Your first destination is the remote waterways of Tortuguero, accessible only by boat. Cruise through tranquil canals surrounded by lush rainforest, where monkeys, toucans, and caimans thrive in the wild. In this secluded paradise, enjoy the hospitality and eco-luxury of Blanco Tortuga Lodge & Gardens, where the sounds of nature and tropical breezes create a serene retreat. From Tortuguero, travel to the scenic highlands of Arenal and Monteverde. Walk among the treetops on suspension bridges, gaze at the iconic Arenal Volcano, and visit a biological research station for a deeper look into Costa Rica’s conservation efforts. In Monteverde’s cloud forest, you’ll stay at the luxurious and sustainable Senda Monteverde Hotel, where boutique elegance meets immersive nature experiences in a tranquil mountaintop setting.

Pacific Coast wonders & farewell in style

Conclude your Costa Rican journey on the picturesque Pacific coast. Explore Carara National Park, home to vibrant scarlet macaws and crocodile-inhabited rivers, before heading to the famed Manuel Antonio National Park, where rainforest trails lead to pristine beaches. Spot sloths and squirrel monkeys, soak in the coastal beauty, and enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your incredible journey.

The Jetsetters experience

With every step of the way curated by Jetsetters, this luxury tour offers more than just beautiful destinations—it delivers personalized service, authentic encounters, and effortless travel. From seamless transfers and insider-guided excursions to hand-selected accommodations, Jetsetters luxury travel advisors ensure that your experience is elevated in every way. This isn’t simply a vacation—it’s an artfully designed, once-in-a-lifetime private guided luxury tour through Panama and Costa Rica. Let Jetsetters bring you closer to the heart of Central America, in style.