Exploring the Gulf of Chiriquí: Panama’s Hidden Islands

Exploring the Gulf of Chiriquí:
Panama’s Hidden Islands

In the heart of Panama’s Pacific coast, away from the familiar buzz of the Panama Canal and the cosmopolitan skyline of its capital, lies a secret world waiting to be discovered — the Gulf of Chiriquí. A place where time seems to slow down, and nature takes center stage, offering travelers a glimpse of paradise that feels untouched, wild, and endlessly captivating.

A Secret Archipelago Waiting to Be Found

The Gulf of Chiriquí stretches over 60,000 hectares of marine park and protected waters, home to more than 25 scattered islands and countless islets, each one holding its own charm, mystery, and natural wonder. For centuries, these islands were known only to fishermen and locals who understood the magic hidden in their shores. Today, they remain one of Panama’s best-kept secrets — a place where lush jungles meet white-sand beaches, volcanic rocks cradle coral gardens, and wildlife flourishes in ways you can’t imagine until you see it.

A Journey that Begins at Sea

Setting sail aboard the M/Y Kontiki Wayra, your adventure into the Gulf of Chiriquí is not just a voyage — it’s a passage into a new way of traveling. Here, adventure meets authenticity, comfort meets conscious exploration, and every day is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and yourself.
As the yacht glides over the turquoise waters, you’ll feel the stress of modern life dissolve into the ocean breeze. Your days will be filled with discovery: waking up to the sound of waves gently lapping against the hull, sipping morning coffee as the sun rises over the horizon, and stepping onto untouched beaches where your footprints may be the only ones in the sand.

Islands that Tell Stories

Among the most enchanting stops are the Islas Paridas, a constellation of small, uninhabited islands cloaked in tropical greenery. Here, the waters are clear and inviting, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply floating in peace. The surrounding marine life is a kaleidoscope of colors — vibrant fish dart between corals, sea turtles glide effortlessly, and if you’re lucky, humpback whales might breach in the distance during their migration season.

Further out lies the legendary Isla Coiba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Once home to a penal colony, this island has since been reclaimed by nature, offering travelers the chance to walk through dense jungles echoing with the calls of howler monkeys, and dive into waters teeming with sharks, manta rays, and playful dolphins.

A Voyage of Connection and Comfort

At the heart of your journey is the experience aboard Kontiki Wayra — a boutique expedition yacht that redefines what it means to travel immersively. Between island explorations, you’ll relax on the panoramic deck, soak in the jacuzzi under the stars, dine on world-class cuisine inspired by local flavors, and share stories with fellow travelers in an atmosphere of warmth and genuine service. This is not a cruise — it’s a handcrafted journey that invites you to live the rhythm of the ocean, to see a side of Panama that most visitors never know exists, and to carry home not only memories but a renewed sense of wonder.

The Gulf of Chiriquí is not just a destination; it’s a hidden paradise that rewards those who choose to explore beyond the ordinary. And with Kontiki Expeditions, you’ll do so in the most unforgettable way.