Crossing a continent by bicycle sounds like a months-long expedition. In Panama, it takes five days — and that is exactly the appeal.
We touch the Pacific at the Amador Causeway, then follow the Canal corridor through Camino de Cruces, Gamboa rainforest and Pipeline Road. Bikes cross Lake Gatún by boat before the final run along the Costa Arriba to the Caribbean forts of Portobelo.
This is our signature expedition. It asks for steady riding legs, not superhero fitness. A support vehicle and mechanic stay with the group throughout the crossing.
Itinerary
Tires in the Pacific
The official start is at the water on the Amador Causeway. From there we ride the coastal bike path, sections of historic Camino de Cruces and into the Canal town of Gamboa for a lodge night beside the Chagres River.
45 km · +520 mCanal rainforest
A full day in Soberanía National Park on Pipeline Road, with howler monkeys, toucans and the possibility of larger rainforest wildlife. The afternoon is open for kayaking on the Chagres.
38 km · +610 mLake and locks
We load the bikes on a private boat across Lake Gatún, watch ships move through Agua Clara Locks and continue on rural roads in Colón toward the slopes of Sierra Llorona.
42 km · +790 mDescent to the Caribbean
The long-awaited finish: a descent along the Costa Arriba into Portobelo, past colonial forts and turquoise water, ending with tires in the Caribbean.
48 km · +480 mA day by the sea
Snorkel Portobelo's reefs, visit the ruins and sit down to fried fish and patacones. The private van returns to Panama City in the afternoon.
Recovery · return by van
