Crossing the Isthmus 2026

Considered one of the toughest endurance events in Panama.

One of the toughest and most respected mtb events in Panama; it is an MTB race, which has a mixed route of 130 kilometers with a cumulative positive elevation gain of 1800 meters. The route is divided into 70% off road and 30% asphalt.

The proposal

  • Stay with Breakfast
  • Airport – hotel transfers
  • Transfer event - hotel
  • Inscription
  • Mechanic for assembly and disassembly of the bicycle
  • City Tour with photographer
  • Active Travel Jersey
  • Travel insurance

Itinerary

DAY 1
WELCOME TO PANAMA
Friday, October 9th
Panama City

Upon your arrival in Panama City, we will welcome you and transfer you comfortably to your hotel. Later, at the RIU Hotel, you will have access to a specialized workshop to leave your bike in perfect condition before the big event. You will also be able to pick up your official kit and visit the trade show, where you will find exclusive products for cyclists and surprises of the event.

Featured:
  • Reception at the international airport

  • Transfer to the selected hotel

  • Bicycle workshop at Hotel RIU

  • Collection of kits and visit to the trade show

meals:
No
Activity:

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DAY 2
EXPLORE THE CITY BY BICYCLE
Saturday, October 10th
Panama City

Enjoy a unique touristic ride through the vibrant Panama City. We will pedal along the Cinta Costera, the emblematic Bridge of the Americas and the historic Casco Antiguo, combining sport with culture. Afterwards, you will have the afternoon free to rest or get to know more of the city at your own pace.

Featured:
  • Sightseeing tour of Panama City

  • Visits to iconic sites: Amador Causeway, Bridge of the Americas, Casco Antiguo (Old Town).

  • Afternoon free to explore or rest

meals:
Breakfast
Activity:

•••

DAY 3
CROSSING THE ISTHMUS
Sunday, October 11
Colón - Panama

The big day has arrived. From dawn, we will move to the starting points according to the chosen distance. In the Gran FondoThe cyclists will start their route in Colon, crossing the isthmus to the Pacific. On the Half FundThe route will be shorter but just as challenging. The finish line will be a celebration, where cyclists and companions will meet again to live together the emotion of having conquered the Cruce del Istmo.

Featured:
  • Early departure according to the chosen distance

  • Gran Fondo: 4:00 AM from the hotel to the starting point in Colón.

  • Medio Fondo: 6:00 AM from the hotel to the starting point.

  • Arrival at the finish line in the Pacific, with a reception for cyclists and their companions.

meals:
Breakfast
Activity:

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DAY 4
FAREWELL AND TRANSFER
Monday, October 12th
Panama City

After an unforgettable experience, we start the day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, we will organize your transfer to the airport so you can end your trip in comfort.

Featured:
  • Breakfast at the hotel

  • Transfer to the international airport

meals:
Breakfast
Activity:

The Event

The CROSSING OF THE ISTHMUS is an endurance cycling event that crosses Panama from coast to coast, from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. In its 2026 edition, this experience promises a challenging and spectacular ride, with routes designed for passionate cyclists looking to test their endurance in one of the most emblematic landscapes of the Americas.

 Location and Date

  • Location: Panama (Colón)

  • Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026

Distances and Routes

  • Gran Fondo (130 km): Start in Colon, with a demanding route across the isthmus to the finish line in Panama Oeste.

  • Middle Distance (65 km): Shorter but challenging route, starting from an intermediate point to the final goal.

Experience

Expand your experience

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Gamboa Plan
Friday, October 9th
Panama

Enjoy a tour in Gamboa with transfer from Hotel Riu, entrance to the Gamboa Bike Park, guide, and visit to an indigenous community with lunch.

What is included in the package?

  • Transfer from the Riu Hotel to the Gamboa Bike Park.
  • Entrance to the natural park to explore its incomparable beauty.
  • Guide specialized guide who will accompany you throughout the entire experience.
  • Visit to an indigenous community where you will enjoy a delicious typical lunch and discover their culture.
    This plan is perfect for those looking to connect with nature and the living history of the Isthmus of Panama.
value: $130 per person
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San Blas Plan
Monday, October 12th
Panama

Embark on a paradisiacal getaway to the spectacular islands of San Blas, where natural beauty and indigenous Guna culture come together.

What is included in the package?

  • Ground transportation from your hotel to the coast.
  • Boat transfer to the islands.
  • Entry taxes to the Guna islands and territory.
  • Tour by two tropical islands and the famous natural pool of crystalline waters.
  • Lunch typical with a drink included.
  • Snorkeling equipment to explore the colorful underwater world.
  • Local guide who will share with you the history and traditions of the region.
    This plan is ideal for those looking to disconnect in a natural paradise and immerse themselves in the Guna culture.
value: $160 per person

Lodging

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Imagen de WhatsApp 2025-02-10 a las 15.39.59_b2f782bd
Hotel Riu Plaza Panama

★★★★★

Enjoy a luxury experience at the Hotel Riu Plaza PanamaThe Hotel Panama City, an elegant 5-star hotel located in the heart of Panama City's financial district.

  • Spacious and equipped rooms for your maximum comfort.
  • Restaurants of varied gastronomy, with options for all tastes.
  • Gym and spa to relax and maintain your routine.
  • Outdoor swimming pool with breathtaking views of the city.

An ideal place to relax before and after your adventure in the CROSSING OF THE ISTHMUSBook your stay and live the best experience in Panama!

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WhatsApp Image 2025-11-20 at 2.17.41 PM
holiday inn hotel

★★★

The Holiday Inn Panama Financial District is a modern, comfortable and perfectly located hotel in the heart of Obarrio. Ideal for business and tourism travelers, it offers spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 gym, swimming pool, restaurant and work spaces.

Close to shopping centers, offices and the main attractions of the city, it is a practical, fresh and ready option to make your stay easier and more pleasant.

Reserve your space

Challenge your limits, cross Panama from coast to coast!

Crossing the Isthmus 2026

From USD$485.00

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