Live the island life while volunteering with youth programs and environmental efforts in Panama’s Caribbean.
This Impact Adventure to Panama is designed to inspire personal growth, strengthen global awareness, and empower students to be changemakers in the world.
Through hands-on service work and immersive travel, students will connect deeply with island communities in Bocas del Toro, explore Panama’s vibrant culture, and experience the natural beauty of the Caribbean and rainforest.
About the Journey
Travel from bustling Panama City to the remote islands of Bocas del Toro on a transformative adventure that blends community service, cultural exchange, and outdoor exploration.
In Bocas, you’ll work alongside Give & Surf’s after-school programs to support local children in English, STEM, arts, and sports. You’ll also explore the region’s biodiversity: snorkeling coral reefs, visiting an indigenous cacao farm, hiking through rainforest caves, and relaxing on pristine Caribbean beaches.
This journey isn’t just about visiting new places—it’s about making a lasting impact. By partnering with Give & Surf, students directly support educational opportunities and community-led initiatives in remote island villages.
The heart of this Impact Adventure is the partnership with Give & Surf, a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to education and empowerment in the remote island communities of Bocas del Toro. Your presence, and your trip funding, directly supports long-term educational opportunities in these underserved communities.
All group transportation, including domestic transfers to/from Bocas del Toro (flight or overland + boat)
Travel insurance is required for all trips. Policies start around $75.
World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
To save your spot on the trip a $500 Deposit is required. Payment plans are available.
If payment is a challenge, some guests choose to fundraise for their trip which is super easy with our guest software WeTravel. We can help advise students on how to fundraise.
To pay for the materials for the project you will work on, we ask that each guest donates or fundraises $250.
Panama is a very safe country, full of amazing, kind, and hospitable people (just ask any of our guests or others who have traveled there). Safety is our #1 priority and we would never take anyone to places where they may be in danger. If you have any concerns, just ask and we are happy to answer questions!
This trip is designed for high school and college students and can be adapted for travelers of any age.
Absolutely. Panama is a wonderful destination for groups who want to combine service, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure.
somos.travel will get you everything you need to get prepared for the trip and help you prepare if you are accepted. See the “Trip Prep” tab at the top of the page for some more info about this.
The heart of this Impact Adventure is the partnership with Give & Surf, a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to education and empowerment in the remote island communities of Bocas del Toro.
Students will:
Your presence, and your trip funding, directly supports long-term educational opportunities in these underserved communities.
No prior experience is required. All volunteer sessions are guided by Give & Surf staff, who provide direction and support. Students will help with English practice, STEM activities, arts, sports, and play—roles that are accessible and engaging for everyone.
The primary focus is assisting in Give & Surf’s after-school programs with local children. Depending on community needs, students may also support special projects such as school improvements, playground construction, or cultural workshops.
Safety is a top priority. Somos guides accompany students at all times, and Give & Surf has deep community partnerships in Bocas del Toro. Accommodations, transportation, and activities are carefully vetted, and the itinerary is designed with student safety and well-being in mind.
Most meals are included, with a mix of group dinners, local lunches, and cultural food experiences. A few meals are intentionally left open to allow students to explore local dining. Dietary needs and preferences (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) are always accommodated.
The trip is designed to be accessible for most students. Activities include light teaching and play, guided hikes, swimming, snorkeling, and walking through island communities. While some excursions involve moderate physical activity, participation is always flexible and based on comfort level.
This page will help you with the essentials:
Passports: Must be valid through your return date. Renew early if needed.
Flights: If you would like Somos to book your group’s flights, just let us know.
Travel Insurance: Required. This should cover lost baggage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and injury. We recommend World Nomads and you can get a quote here.
Vaccinations: Costa Rica does not require specific vaccines for entry, but Hepatitis A & Typhoid are recommended. Check with a doctor or travel clinic in advance.
Fundraising: Somos can provide fundraising resources and coaching to make the trip more accessible and also to support and raise awareness for local impact partners we work with.
Payment Timeline:
Traveler Forms & Onboarding
To ensure a safe and smooth journey, all travelers complete a short onboarding process that includes:
If you’re organizing a group trip—such as a school, Rotary club, or corporate team—please reach out for custom onboarding and registration options tailored to your group.
Packing List: Will be shared closer to departure (includes recommended clothing, surf/beach gear, and service work supplies).
Pre-Trip Meet-up: Zoom or In-person orientation to meet the group and guides before departure.
