Panama has long been one of the most fascinating destinations in Central America, tirelessly fought over by various countries and powers around the world. Located on the isthmus between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Panama is the shortcut between the East and West. The link between Central and South America contains a mix of diverse cultures and agendas that must be experienced to believe.
Panama offers a truly diverse destination. Our trips to Panama provide the quintessential Wonder Voyage experience; allowing us to weave spiritual encounter, cultural exploration and relevant service work together into a life-changing journey. Join us as we venture into the wild, rugged world between worlds on a missions trip or through pilgrimage.
Overview
- Meditate and pray at one of Panama’s oldest cathedrals.
- Hike around the edges of Lake Gatun.
- Take in the wonders of the Panama Canal.
- Serve in an orphanage through play, prayers and hard work.
- Live in a community where the need is great and your service can change lives.
Itinerary
Every Wonder Voyage itinerary (mission trip and/or pilgrimage) is personalized to the desires, direction and personality of each group. This itinerary is only a description of the kind of journey we can create for your unique team.
- Day 1 – Bienvenidos!
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Panama! This Central American nation known for the famous Panama Canal has a colorful history. Once a part of Spain then Gran Colombia, then Colombia, this now sovereign nation is as diverse in its ecology and people as it is in history. Our adventure begins in the Chiriqui Province of Western Panama. This tropical paradise with coastal beauty and fertile highlands is our home base for most of the week. As we look ahead, we pray for a week filled with wonder. - Day 2- Serving the Servants
As we immerse ourselves in a new climate and new surroundings, we begin our week of service here in Panama. Our morning is dedicated to “serving the servants;” the local missionaries who are not only our hosts, but also dedicated to improving the lives of the local indigenous population. When work time ends, we head to a local sugar cane farm and mill to learn about growing and processing sugar. - Day 3- Nurturing Growth
Living things – whether plants, animals, or people – need to be nurtured in order to grow. We ponder this concept today as we head to the nearby mountainous highlands of the Boquete region. With waterfalls, coffee farms, and bountiful flora and fauna, this area has become a favorite of tourists and transplants alike. A visit to a local hydroponics farm in the morning and a time serving with an afterschool program for indigenous children in the afternoon will center our focus on the essential elements of growth. - Day 4- All God’s Children Play
No matter the age, location, or socioeconomic status, children know how to play. All barriers, including those of language, seem to fall when the games begin. Today we put that theory into practice with a recreation day at a local boys’ home. The fun continues in the afternoon with a hiking adventure in the Cerro Punta area. At the end of a joyful day we look back to consider the ways that playing really does rejuvenate our hearts. - Day 5 – First Nations
In many instances, the written history of a region begins with the arrival of settlers; but the complete history usually begins long before. The history of Panama is often told with the arrival of the Spanish, but indigenous peoples like the Ngabe were already flourishing here. Currently, the Ngabe are the largest indigenous group and the poorest people group in Central America. As we serve in a Ngabe village today it is with the hope of learning about the culture and history that has largely gone unwritten. The afternoon takes us to a small uninhabited Pacific island for beach fun. - Day 6 – Local Marvels
Throughout the journey of life there are things that are marvelous – things that fill us with wonder. Some of these marvels are part of natural creation, and some are created by human hands. Today we see both. The day begins with a visit the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal. This feat of engineering revolutionized travel between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and is considered a wonder of the modern world. In the afternoon our sights are set on natural wonders with a visit to a local preserve that studies amazing local wildlife which includes rare frogs and endangered turtles. - Day 7 – Adios to Panama
Our final day in Panama is one of celebration. We begin with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at a local Anglican church. The afternoon brings the opportunity to visit some of the historic sites in the Spanish Colonial section of Panama City. In the evening we celebrate the amazing journey we have had this week as we transition our hearts for the journey home.
Legacy Location
Legacy in Panama
Starting at
$1025* per person
- *This is the base cost of the trip. Your cost may differ depending on housing, activities, etc.
