14 islands, one resort, a maximum of 32 guests

from / to Panama City

7 days (6 nights); bookable for a minimum of 3 nights

All-inclusive, max. 32 guests

Private Island Getaway in the Islas Secas Archipelago, Panama | 7 days / 6 nights, starting at 3 nights | All-inclusive | Travel by private plane from Panama City

A private archipelago of 14 islands in the Gulf of Chiriquí, a resort for no more than 32 guests: At Islas Secas 20 miles off Panama's Pacific coast, you'll find a nature reserve home to 750 species of fish and Panama's second-largest Frigatebird Colony. From July through September, they migrate Humpback whales directly through the protected waters, which are the only region in the world visited by populations from both hemispheres.

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The island team works with you to plan your itinerary anew every day: diving among volcanic reefs with rays and turtles in the morning, a picnic prepared by the chef on a secluded beach at noon, a marine safari on your own yacht in the afternoon, and cocktails at the Balboa Bar in the evening. Almost everything is included, from diving lessons to water sports and daily yoga to spa treatments. You’ll stay in casitas with private pools, designed in the traditional Panamanian architectural style, or in tented casitas whose walls open completely onto the ocean.

The archipelago is both a protected marine reserve and a research station: Solar power covers most of the energy needs, wastewater is fully treated, and during reef monitoring, you’ll snorkel alongside the science team. Just over an hour by boat away lies Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest marine protected areas in the world.

Before or after your time on the island, it’s worth spending one or two days in Panama City. In the UNESCO-designated historic district of Casco Viejo, you’ll stay among colonial facades and rooftop bars; on the Amador Causeway, the Biomuseo —designed by Frank Gehry—tells the story of the country’s natural history; and at the Miraflores Locks, you can watch the ocean giants pass through the Panama Canal from the visitor platform. Feel free to contact us—we’ll be happy to put together a personalized itinerary for your pre- or post-trip activities.

Stephanie Gräf

Stephanie Gräf

Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in personalized and exciting trips around the globe.

I am your contact person for questions and bookings regarding your trip.

You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de

Good to know

Type of trip: Private island stay at an all-inclusive resort with dates of your choice and a flexible duration starting at three nights. A personal contact on the island will plan your daily itinerary according to your preferences; the itinerary described here is an example of a typical week.

Entry Requirements: German citizens must present a valid passport that remains valid for at least three months after entry; a return or onward ticket, as well as proof of sufficient travel funds, may be required. You can find the latest travel and safety advisories from the Federal Foreign Office for Panama. Regulations may vary for other nationalities. Please contact us.

Best time to visit: Islas Secas in Panama is open from mid-November through the end of September. The sunniest months are December through April, and humpback whale season runs from July through September. Surfers will find the region’s best waves from April through September.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Humpback whales from both hemispheres – The archipelago’s waters are the only ones in the world visited by humpback whale populations from both the northern and southern hemispheres; the best chances for sightings are from July through September.
  • Diving on volcanic reefs – Over 20 dive sites featuring steep walls, caves, and seamounts where manta rays, sharks, and sea turtles pass by; courses and daily trips included.
  • Coiba National Park – A day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring scuba diving, rainforest trails, and the chance to see whale sharks.
  • Casita with a private pool – Panama-style living between the jungle and the sea, from the Tented Casita with roll-up walls to the Casa Cavada residence.
  • Everything is included —meals, drinks, diving, water sports, a fishing trip, yoga, and a spa treatment are all included in the price.
  • Marine Safari with Our Own Fleet – Explore caves, secluded beaches, and dolphins in the Gulf of Chiriquí by yacht, catamaran, or panga.
  • Nature Conservation in Action – Private Marine Reserve and Research Station; you can help out with reef monitoring and wildlife counts.

route

Map of the main island, Isla Cavada, showing the casitas, the terrace, the spa, and the runway at Islas Secas

itinerary

7 Days / 6 Nights | A Sample Week Among Reefs, Whales, and Secluded Beaches

Day 1 | Arrival in the Archipelago

In the morning, the resort’s Twin Otter takes off from Panama City. An hour’s flight later, it lands on the private runway at Islas Secas, with the turquoise mosaic of 14 islands spread out below you. Fresh juices await you on the tarmac, and afterward, the team will show you around the archipelago on an orientation tour.

After checking in at your casita, you’ll have lunch right on the beach at the Terraza. In the afternoon, you’ll head underwater for the first time: a dive at the volcanic reef will take you to stingrays and sea turtles, and afterward, you’ll zip across and beneath the water’s surface on a Seabob. The evening concludes with a meal under the open sky, accompanied by a cocktail mixed by the bar.

The Twin Otter from Islas Secas on the island's private runway
The yacht Cavada on a marine safari among the islands of the Islas Secas Archipelago

Day 2 | Vista Ridge and Marine Safari

Early in the morning, when the light is still soft, you’ll hike with your guide up the Vista Ridge Trail to the lookouts on the main island. Along the way, your guide will explain the local flora; once at the top, the archipelago will lie at your feet. Back at the Terraza, breakfast featuring tropical fruits will be waiting for you.

Then the Cavada, the resort’s 50-foot yacht, sets sail: The Marine Safari takes you into caves and to hidden beaches, and along the way you’ll keep an eye out for coastal wildlife. At lunchtime, the chef prepares a picnic on a deserted beach.

In the afternoon, you can cut through the water while wakesurfing or sail around the islands in a Hobie Cat. Afterward, the airstrip becomes a playing field: pickleball on the airstrip, with cool drinks and music. A deep-tissue massage at the open-air spa loosens up your muscles before dinner is served on the main island.

Day 3 | Deep-sea fishing and reef monitoring

The day begins quietly: Glide along the morning coastline on a stand-up paddleboard, keeping an eye out for whales and seabirds. After breakfast, it’s time to set sail for deep-sea fishing aboard the Cavada, targeting billfish—which are released back into the sea after being caught—or yellowfin tuna.

With a little luck, the chef will prepare your catch for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll swap your fishing rod for a mask and snorkel: During the guided reef monitoring tour, you’ll swim through the coral gardens and report your sightings to the island’s science team—a small contribution to research in the reserve.

Later, you'll mix cocktails using local ingredients in the mixology class at the Balboa Bar. As the sun sets, everyone gathers around the fire pit, and then dinner is served in your casita or on the beach.

Boat Fishing in the Waters off Islas Secas
A swimmer underwater in the clear sea off a small island

Day 4 | Day Trip to the Islas Paridas

The morning is all about the body: Secasana yoga on the floating platform or on the beach, followed by a leisurely breakfast on your own terrace.

Then head over to the Islas Paridas, a remote archipelago with pristine coral reefs. You’ll snorkel in crystal-clear waters, follow hidden trails across the islands, and have lunch on a secluded beach. In the tranquil lagoons, you’ll glide across the water once more on a paddleboard before heading back to the resort.

The afternoon winds down at the Mango Pool or during a guided breathwork session. As the sun sets, watch the sky change colors from the Balboa Bar, then the chef invites you to dinner.

Day 5 | Coiba National Park

Today you’ll head out to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest marine protected areas in the world. You’ll go diving or snorkeling in one of the best underwater destinations around, and lunch will be served on board with a view of the open sea.

In the afternoon, you'll head ashore: On Coiba's rainforest trails, you'll encounter monkeys and macaws, and during the right season, with a little luck, you might even see a whale shark swimming by off the coast.

The Bali Catamaran takes care of the return trip: drinks on deck as the sun sets behind the islands. The evening is peaceful, with a meal under the starry sky, which you can then admire from the deck of your casita.

Divers above a reef in the tropical Eastern Pacific
Kayaking on the calm waters of Islas Secas

Day 6 | Mangroves and Citizen Science

Enjoy breakfast at your own pace, with coffee and local pastries. Afterward, the guides will introduce you to the reserve’s research work: During the morning’s citizen science session, you’ll help record marine mammals and birds, and learn what the data reveals about the Gulf of Chiriquí.

You’ll then paddle your kayak into the mangroves, a nursery for countless marine animals and a delicately balanced ecosystem. Lunch is served in a casual setting in front of the Balboa Bar.

In the afternoon, you can choose between the breeze and tranquility: water skiing or tubing, or a book from the island library. To say goodbye, the team hosts a sundowner at the airstrip or by the pool, followed by a taste of Panama: ceviche, plantains, and freshly caught seafood.

Day 7 | Farewell to Islas Secas

As the sun rises for the last time, you’ll be sitting on the terrace having breakfast. If you’d like, you can go for one last paddleboard ride, take a final swim in the bay, or stroll along the beach with your camera.

Then the Twin Otter will be ready. One hour later, you’ll land in Panama City, where you’ll be met at the Signature Terminal and escorted to your connecting flight or to your hotel.

Sunset over the Pacific Ocean at Islas Secas

Your Week, Your Schedule

The itinerary described here is an example of a typical week. Once you’re there, your personal contact will work with you each day to tailor the program based on the weather, whale season, and your preferences. Shorter stays of three nights or more are also possible, as is an extension of your stay in Panama City. The excursions to Coiba National Park and the Islas Paridas are optional add-ons available for an additional fee; everything else during the week is included in the package.

All meals and beverages are included during your stay on Islas Secas.

Your Casitas on Islas Secas

Seven casitas and one private residence are scattered across the main island, each with its own unique character. Please contact us; we’d be happy to help you choose.

Tented Casitas · Tent suites with open walls and an outdoor bathtub
Armchairs and daybeds on the terrace of a Tented Casita overlooking the bayFour-poster bed with a mosquito net in a Tented Casita, with one side open to the forestFreestanding bathtub on the deck of a Tented Casita overlooking the forestWooden double sink with a round mirror under a tent-style canopy
location

The three Tented Casitas are perched high above the bay, in the heart of the forest on the main island. A steep trail leads up to them on foot, but in return, you’ll be closer to nature than anywhere else on the island.

Housing

Beneath a canvas roof lies a 96 m² space featuring a bedroom with a king-size bed under a mosquito net and a private bathroom. The tent walls can be rolled up completely, leaving nothing between you and the view over the treetops all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

Outdoor Area

The spacious deck features deep daybeds and a freestanding outdoor bathtub. The Tented Casitas do not have their own pool, but the infinity pool on the Terraza is available to you at any time.

Facilities

Air conditioning with individual temperature control, Wi-Fi, international power outlets, a French press for fresh coffee, bathrobes and flip-flops, a beach bag and beach towels, as well as a minibar restocked daily with water, soft drinks, beer, and snacks.

For whom

For two people who want to sleep outdoors without giving up a real bed, and who don't mind the climb.

Casita Mirador · A retreat for two overlooking the bay
Private plunge pool on the thatched-roof terrace of Casita MiradorThe Casita Mirador with a pool, nestled among the trees overlooking the bayThe Casita Mirador overlooking the coast in the evening light
location

Nestled among the trees overlooking the coast, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by tropical gardens, with the bay below—and nothing else.

Housing

186 m² for two people: one bedroom with a king-size bed under a mosquito net, high ceilings, wooden slatted shutters, and a private bathroom.

Outdoor Area

In front of the casita is the private plunge pool. Three lounge areas with daybeds are spread across the shaded terraces, one of which is under a thatched roof.

Facilities

Air conditioning with individual temperature control, Wi-Fi, international power outlets, a French press for fresh coffee, bathrobes and flip-flops, a beach bag and beach towels, as well as a minibar restocked daily with water, soft drinks, beer, and snacks.

For whom

The quietest spot on the island, perfectly suited for two people.

Casita Tres Palmas · Two connected houses in the northwest
Aerial view of the two houses at Casita Tres Palmas on the turquoise reefPlunge pool and daybeds under a thatched roof with a view of the oceanCasita Tres Palmas, nestled between the forest and the coast in the northwest of the island
location

In the northwest of the main island, above the reef, overlooking the offshore rocky islets.

Housing

Two separate houses connected by a shared terrace: a total of 250 m², two bedrooms that can accommodate up to four people, with the option of two king-size beds or one king-size bed and two single beds. Each bedroom has its own bathroom.

Outdoor Area

The terrace between the houses features a plunge pool and deep daybeds in the shade, with the ocean stretching out before it.

Facilities

Air conditioning with individual temperature control, Wi-Fi, international power outlets, a French press for fresh coffee, bathrobes and flip-flops, a beach bag and beach towels, as well as a minibar restocked daily with water, soft drinks, beer, and snacks.

For whom

For families or two couples: together on the terrace, separate in the sleeping quarters.

Casita Sombras · Three levels with private beach access
Two separate sleeping quarters at Casita Sombras, with a stone path and stairs connecting themPlunge pool on the deck of Casita Sombras overlooking the beachAerial view of Casita Sombras overlooking the turquoise water with its own private beachDaybed under a thatched roof next to the plunge pool at Casita Sombras
location

In the north of the island, beneath the forest canopy.

Housing

The Casita is spread over three levels: upstairs, there are two separate sleeping quarters totaling 250 m², with two bedrooms that can accommodate up to four people, each with its own bathroom, and the option of either two king-size beds or one king-size bed and two single beds.

Outdoor Area

One level below is the deck with the plunge pool; from there, steps lead down to a private little beach that is exposed at low tide. No other casita has this access.

Facilities

Air conditioning with individual temperature control, Wi-Fi, international power outlets, a French press for fresh coffee, bathrobes and flip-flops, a beach bag and beach towels, as well as a minibar restocked daily with water, soft drinks, beer, and snacks.

For whom

For families who like to keep things simple and want to be the first ones in the water in the morning.

Casita Grande · Four houses surrounding a terrace, sleeps eight
Aerial view of the four Casita Grande houses surrounding the patio and poolDining table and lounge furniture under the thatched roof of the Casita Grande with a view of the seaThe large plunge pool at Casita Grande, overlooking the offshore islandsThe Casita Grande's pool deck, nestled among palm trees with a thatched-roof pavilion
location

In the southeastern part of the island, nestled among tropical gardens with a view of the sea.

Housing

Four houses built in the traditional Panamanian style are grouped around a shared terrace: 510 m², four bedrooms accommodating up to eight people, each with its own bathroom, available with either four king-size beds or two king-size beds and four single beds. High ceilings and large windows allow the breeze to flow through. Extra beds are available for up to two additional guests.

Outdoor Area

The spacious terrace connects all four houses and features a large plunge pool with a view of the ocean.

Facilities

Air conditioning in every room, Wi-Fi, international power outlets, a French press, bathrobes and flip-flops, a beach bag and beach towels, plus a minibar and daily housekeeping. Exclusively for guests of the Casita Grande: an open-air movie night in your own garden, a private yoga session, and a sound therapy session for the whole family.

For whom

The perfect base for large families and groups of friends who want to eat together but still have their own rooms.

Casa Cavada · Private Residence with an Infinity Pool and a Personal Chef
Casa Cavada, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with its curved roofVertical aerial view of the curved roof of Casa Cavada with its infinity poolThe infinity pool at Casa Cavada, set against the stone arches of the open-air loungeA bird's-eye view of Casa Cavada's semi-Olympic infinity pool with sun loungers
location

On the cliffs above the surf in the southeastern part of the island, about 450 meters and a five-minute walk from the Terraza, a good 700 meters from the other casitas. Close enough for an evening at the bar, far enough for complete tranquility.

Architecture

The residence rises from the rock: massive eucalyptus trunks emerge from a coral-stone foundation and support a curved roof whose shape is modeled after a stingray and the wings of a frigatebird. The ceilings extend over three stories, and each opening frames a view of the Pacific Ocean.

Housing

Approximately 770 m² are spread across two separate wings: one houses the master suite and the living area, while the other contains the guest rooms. There are a total of four bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, accommodating up to eight people, plus two guest bathrooms. The bedrooms feature four-poster beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, and large balconies.

Facilities

Reclaimed teak, linen-upholstered sofas, colonial-style rattan chairs, and ceramics featuring marine motifs. Furniture was crafted from fallen trees in the archipelago, and the walls are adorned with works by the indigenous Guna people and paintings by Panamanian artists.

Outdoor Area

From the living area, the path leads down to the semi-Olympic infinity pool with a sun deck and lounge chairs; next to it is an open-air lounge beneath arches made of painted lava stone. The dining terrace juts out over the edge toward the sea; at low tide, a hidden beach lies below.

Services and Amenities

A dedicated chef, bartender, house manager, and housekeeping staff will be on hand exclusively for your group. In addition, you’ll have access to a fully equipped kitchen, a pool bar, a private gym, a ping-pong table, air conditioning in every room, Wi-Fi, and a complimentary minibar. A staff room is available if you’re traveling with your own entourage.

Distinctive Feature

For stays of five nights or more at Casa Cavada, a day trip to Coiba National Park is included. During whale season, humpback whales pass within sight of the house.

For whom

For families and groups of friends who want to have the archipelago all to themselves without having to give up the resort.

Activities on Islas Secas

Almost all activities are included in your stay; the island team will plan them anew with you each day. There is an additional charge for longer excursions beyond the archipelago.

Diving at Volcanic Reefs (includes one dive per day)

Divers on a reef near Islas Secas with beams of light in the water

There are over 20 dive sites off the islands: steep walls, caves, and seamounts where nutrient-rich currents draw manta rays, sharks, and sea turtles. One dive trip per day is included, as are courses ranging from a two-hour introductory session to PADI certification for stays of five nights or more. Children ages 10 and up can dive.

Snorkeling in the reserve (included)

A snorkeler at the water's surface in clear water

The protected area’s coral reefs begin right in front of the beaches, where reef fish, turtles, and rays swim. The resort’s marine experts will accompany you on your snorkeling trips throughout the archipelago and show you the best spots, depending on the currents and visibility.

Marine Safari and Boat Tours (included)

The resort's catamaran sailing between the islands

The resort’s fleet will take you throughout the entire archipelago: the Cavada yacht, a 46-foot Bali catamaran, and agile pangas. The marine safari takes you to coves, caves, and beaches on the 14 islands, with dolphins appearing along the way, and during the season, humpback whales accompany the journey.

Whale Watching (included; season: July through September)

Humpback whale jumps off the coast in the Gulf of Chiriquí

The waters around Islas Secas are the only ones in the world visited by humpback whales from both hemispheres. From July through September, the whales of the large southern population migrate through the Gulf of Chiriquí to calve and raise their calves; guided whale-watching tours follow them at a safe distance and in accordance with strict guidelines. Often, a view from your own casita is all you need.

Fishing with the Pro Team (half-day tour included)

Fishing boat with anglers at the stern, seen from above

Islas Secas is closer to Hannibal Bank and the Islas Montuosa than any other base in Panama. A guided half-day of inshore fishing is included in your stay; the team can organize deep-sea fishing trips for billfish—which are released after being caught—for an additional fee. Upon request, the chef will prepare your catch for dinner.

Water sports, from e-foils to Seabobs (included)

Ride an e-foil across the water

The Activities Center has top-of-the-line equipment for every activity: e-foils that, with a little practice, glide silently over the water; Seabobs for diving beneath the surface; plus wakesurfing, water skiing, Hobie Cat sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding along four miles of sheltered coastline. The team will show you how to use each piece of equipment.

Hiking and Birdwatching (included)

Guests use binoculars to watch birds in the forest on the main island

More than eight kilometers of well-maintained trails crisscross the main island, from the Playas Loop to the North Cavada Trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter a 300-year-old cedar tree, a blowhole that shoots water up to 18 meters high, and overlooks of the archipelago. With the nature guides, you’ll observe hummingbirds and Panama’s second-largest frigatebird colony—and, if you’d like, participate in a citizen science activity using count sheets.

Wellness and Yoga (included)

A yoga pose on a floating platform at sunset

The spa is tucked away in a garden of old, overhanging trees: two open-air wellness tents with swing seats and bathtubs; the products are made on the island from coconut, jasmine, and ylang-ylang. One 60-minute treatment per guest is included, as is daily Secasana yoga—sometimes on the floating platform, sometimes in the moonlight on the airstrip.

Family Program for Young Explorers (inclusive)

Children are jumping into the resort's pool

Children of all ages are welcome at Islas Secas. There’s a special program for our young guests: the Junior Naturalist Program with the guides, Underwater Explorers in the shallow reef, afternoon fishing trips, treasure hunts around the island, Ocean Arts and Crafts, and cooking classes tailored for children. Diving courses are available for children ages ten and up.

Coiba National Park (additional fee, full day)

Whale shark with a diver in blue water

About an hour’s boat ride away lies Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest marine protected areas in the world. You can dive or snorkel at sites suitable for all skill levels, hike the trails on Cerro Cambute among monkeys and macaws, and enjoy lunch on board or on the beach. During the season, with a little luck, a whale shark might swim by.

Islas Paridas (for an additional fee, full day)

View from a boat of a beach with palm trees

The remote neighboring archipelago of the Islas Paridas is one of the quietest spots in the Gulf: pristine coral reefs for snorkeling, hidden beaches for paddling and hiking, with monkeys, parrots, and dolphins dotting the landscape. A leisurely lunch on the beach is part of the excursion.

Surfing at Morro Negrito (for an additional fee; season: April through September)

A surfer backlit on a wave off the forested coast

The Morro Negrito surf spot is one of the best-known destinations on Panama’s Pacific coast; the best waves run from April through September. Between sessions, you can spot crocodiles, monkeys, and toucans in the coastal ecosystems, and the day wraps up with a meal prepared by the chef aboard the Bali catamaran.

Dates & Prices

Request your trip here!

Stays can be scheduled individually, for a minimum of three nights, depending on the casita and the season. The resort closes annually from late September through mid-November.

Period Price per person further information
Can be scheduled individually Price upon request All-inclusive, stays of 3 nights or more

Information

Included services:

  • Overnight stays in the casita of your choice, including daily housekeeping and evening turndown service (see casita descriptions)
  • A personal contact on the island who will work with you to customize your daily itinerary
  • All meals, freshly prepared, including beach barbecues, picnics, and snacks
  • All beverages, from cocktails and mocktails to beer, wine, and sparkling wine, plus a minibar in the Casita that is restocked daily
  • Diving at over 20 sites throughout the archipelago: a guided trip with one dive per day; all courses included (PADI certification for stays of five nights or more; children’s courses for ages 10 and up)
  • Water sports with premium equipment: kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, e-foiling, Seabob, Hobie Cat sailing, wakesurfing, and water skiing, each with instruction
  • One guided half-day fishing trip in the archipelago's waters per stay
  • One 60-minute spa treatment per guest aged 18 and older at the Secascent Spa
  • Daily guided yoga sessions at different locations, from a floating platform to the beach
  • Guided whale-watching tours during the season from July through September
  • Guided hikes, birdwatching, and citizen science programs with the nature guides
  • High-speed Wi-Fi in the casitas and common areas, as well as laundry service
  • Reef-friendly sunscreen, insect repellent, and a beach kit with flip-flops, a water bottle, and a beach bag
  • Personalized travel planning and advice from inventia
Not included:

  • International flights to Panama City. Upon request, we'll handle your flight planning and find the right connection.
  • Air transfer on the resort's private plane from Panama City to Islas Secas and back (approx. 1 hour each way, including VIP reception at Tocumen Airport and transfers in Panama City)
  • Excursions beyond the archipelago, such as to Coiba National Park, the Islas Paridas, or for surfing, are available for an additional fee (see Activities)
  • Deep-sea fishing trips and additional dives beyond the included daily trip, for an extra charge
  • Additional spa treatments, for an additional charge
  • Panamanian Taxes on Lodging and Related Services
  • tips
  • travel insurance
Important:

  • We recommend arriving one to two days before the trip begins to allow for any flight or baggage delays.
  • For a same-day connecting flight, your international flight must land in Panama City by 3:00 p.m.; the resort's plane flies three to four weekdays, depending on the season.
  • The checked baggage allowance on the resort flight is limited to 23 kg per person.
  • Travel health insurance with unlimited coverage is mandatory, and proof of coverage must be provided.
  • Islas Secas is located 20 miles off the coast; the only way to reach a hospital is by plane. A doctor is on site daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., along with bilingual medical staff and a treatment room in the administration building. Please bring all medications you need on a regular basis or as needed.
  • You will be assisted in English while you are there. There are no plans to provide a German-speaking guide.
  • Some of the paths on the island are steep, and there is a steeper climb on foot leading to the Tented Casitas. If you have limited mobility, please contact us in advance so we can select the right casita for you.
  • This is a private island getaway with no set group. You decide the travel dates, the duration (minimum three nights), and the daily itinerary; the resort is closed annually from late September through mid-November.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Islas Secas?

You’ll first fly to Panama City. From there, the resort’s private plane—a Twin Otter—will take you directly to the archipelago’s airstrip in about an hour. Flights operate three to four weekdays a week, depending on the season; to catch the connecting flight on the same day, your international flight must land in Panama City by 3:00 p.m. You’ll be met at Tocumen Airport and escorted through immigration and customs; transfers in Panama City are also included. The checked baggage allowance is limited to 23 kg per person. Upon request, we’ll handle your flight arrangements.

Do I need a visa for Panama?

For German citizens, a valid passport is sufficient for tourist stays of up to 90 days; a visa is not required. The passport must be valid for at least three months upon entry; a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient travel funds may be required. You can find the latest travel and safety advisories from the Federal Foreign Office for Panama. Regulations may vary for other nationalities. Please contact us.

When is the best time to visit?

The resort is open from mid-November through the end of September. The sunniest months are December through April. If you want to see humpback whales, visit between July and September, when the southern population gives birth in the Gulf of Chiriquí. Surfers will find the best waves from April through September.

What is included in the stay?

Islas Secas is all-inclusive: all meals and beverages, the minibar, daily diving including lessons, water sports ranging from kayaking to e-foiling, a half-day fishing trip, one spa treatment per guest, daily yoga, guided hikes, and whale watching during the season. For an additional fee, excursions beyond the archipelago are available, such as to Coiba National Park, as well as air transfers from Panama City.

Is Islas Secas suitable for families?

Yes, children of all ages are welcome. The resort offers its own children’s program featuring Junior Naturalist excursions, snorkeling sessions, treasure hunts, and cooking classes; diving courses are available for guests ages ten and up. The Casitas Tres Palmas, Sombras, and Grande can accommodate four to eight guests, and extra beds are available in some of the casitas.

Do I need to have diving experience?

No. Beginners start with the two-hour Discover Scuba course in the archipelago, while advanced divers can earn a PADI certification on stays of five nights or more; both are included. Experienced divers will find over 20 sites featuring steep walls, caves, and seamounts, and those who prefer to stay on the surface can snorkel through the coral gardens with the marine guides.

How long should I stay?

Stays can be booked for a minimum of three nights; a minimum of seven nights applies during the New Year’s holiday period. Our sample week shows how much you can fit into seven days; your personal contact on the island will work with you each day to plan your daily itinerary.

How sustainable is the resort?

Islas Secas is a privately protected marine reserve with its own research station. Solar energy covers most of the facility’s energy needs; wastewater is fully treated and reused for irrigation; food waste is composted; and the fuel used by airplanes and boats is offset through a climate program. As a guest, you can participate in reef monitoring and wildlife counts.

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about the trip

Visiting Richard Branson's private island

An exclusive Caribbean experience on Richard Branson's private island. An extraordinary location. Relax on white sandy beaches. Individually designed rooms. Turquoise blue water surrounded by coral reefs.
about the trip

Guatemala Family Adventure Trip

8 days (7 nights) family trip in Guatemala with Antigua, Pacaya Volcano, Lake Atitlán, Tikal Mayan ruins, and workshops for the whole family.
about the trip