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Panama Travel Tips

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Its importance in global trade has helped the country proper (it’s one of the most developed in the region). And in recent years, Panama has also become a major tourist destination as flights from the US have become increasingly affordable and more Americans begin to retire here.

Most travelers visit Panama either at the end or the beginning of their journey through Central America here and stick to the well-worn tourist trail of Bocas del Toro, Boquete , the San Blas islands, and Panama City but, if you head to some of the lesser-known destinations, you’ll be rewarded with better food, amazing scenery free of tourists, and lower prices.

Panama is a beautiful country with an up and coming food scene (finally because, honestly, the food here is a bit bland) that I would say you need longer than you think to explore!

This travel guide to Panama can help you plan the perfect trip there without breaking the bank.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Panama

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Top 5 things to see and do in panama.

1. See the Panama Canal

Opened in 1914, the Panama Canal is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World and sees around 13,000-14,000 ships cross between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean each year. The Canal is 80 kilometers (50 miles) long and raises ships an impressive 27 meters (85 feet) using a complex lock system. It took a decade to create, relying on the labor of over 40,000 people — and over 5,000 of them died in the process. The Miraflores Locks are the easiest to reach from Panama City. Admission is $20 USD, and this includes the exhibitions at the visitor center as well as seeing the ships pass through from the observation deck.

2. Hang out in Bocas del Toro

Bocas is Panama’s most popular backpacker destination, combining a laid-back Caribbean attitude with the pristine natural setting of jungles, forests, and mangroves. Surfing is extremely popular here and there are always water taxis to take you to secluded coves, beaches, and the best snorkeling spots. This area is made up of three main islands: Isla Colon, Isla Bastimentos, and Isla Carenero. Bastimentos is calm and there are fewer people here so it’s a nice place to chill out away from it all. This area is also home to the Ngäbe and Naso Tjerdi indigenous cultures.

3. Relax in Boquete

Boquete is a laid-back village located in the mountainous region of the Chiriquí Highlands. There are several coffee plantations nearby, the ‘Mi Jardin es Su Jardin’ private garden, and several hiking trails of varying difficulty should you need to stretch your legs. This is a wonderful place to hike, bird watch, try some of the delicious regional coffee, and enjoy nature. One of the highlights here is the Volcán Barú volcano, where you can hike or take a 4X4 jeep tour up to the summit to catch the sunrise. The views are truly spectacular and you can enjoy panoramas of both the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts at the same time.

4. Sail the San Blas islands

This collection of 378 islands is a popular spot for sailing and boat tours (there are lots of resorts here too). These mostly uninhabited islands are under control of the Guna indigenous people and are still very rustic (no Wi-Fi, limited electricity), allowing them to maintain their raw beauty for ecotourism. The lodging there is made up of simple huts, hammocks, and tents. You can also opt to do a sailing tour around the area and stay on a boat. Most 3-day/2-night sailing tours cost around $285 USD, including food, while a 4-day sailing trip costs $559 USD. You can also visit on a day trip if you’re short on time

5. Tour a coffee plantation

Other things to see and do in panama, 1. check out the ruins of panama viejo.

Founded in 1519 by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias de Ávila, Panama Viejo (“Old Panama”) was once the country’s capital. It was one of the Pacific coast’s busiest Spanish trading towns until it was destroyed by Captain Henry Morgan in 1671. The remaining ruins are spread out over 57 acres and include the original cathedral (you can climb the bell tower for an amazing panoramic view), a hospital, and churches and convents. Because of it is historic significance, in 1997 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with Panama City’s historic Casco Viejo neighborhood. Admission is $15 USD for adults and $2 USD for kids. It’s only a 10-minute drive or 30-minute bus ride from Panama City.

2. Bike along Amador Causeway in Panama City

This 6-kilometer (4-mile) causeway is made from the excavated rocks of the Panama Canal and links Panama City with three islands: Flamenco, Naos, and Perico. It’s an easy ride and you’ll have a view across the canal on one side and the city skyline on the other. There are plenty of restaurants to stop at along the way too. You can rent bikes on the causeway; expect to pay $10-20 USD for a rental.

3. Take the Panama Canal Railway

The Panama Canal Railway connects Panama City with Colón and runs from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean with this scenic 76-kilometer (47-mile) route. The train is an old-fashioned locomotive complete with an observation car that offers views of the canal, Gutan Lake, and the passing rainforests. The three-hour round-trip journey costs $50 USD ($30 USD for children aged 2-12).

4. Visit Portobelo

Christopher Columbus named this settlement Puerto Bello or “Beautiful Harbor” when he arrived there in 1502. Over time, it was shortened to Portobelo . The settlement became an important town at the northern end of the Gold Road, and its 18th-century fortifications were built by the Spanish to protect their gold from pirates. You can still see the original canon battery and the crumbling ruins of the fort. Portobelo is also a good launching point for sailing trips to San Blas. The cuisine in Portobelo has a lot of African influences as well, including curries, coconut, seafood, and fragrant spices (head to Casa Congo for an authentic taste of Congolese food).

5. Hit the beach in Pedasi

Located on the Pacific side, this town is located five hours from Panama City and is known for its surfing. Though it has become a haven for expats in recent years, it’s still not really “on” the tourist trail. Not a lot of people go here and you’ll have the beaches mostly to yourself. The water is warm and you can find surf lessons at Shokogi Surf School starting from about $40 USD for one hour for a private lesson and $30 for a group class in Playa Venao. This is also a prime spot to see humpback whales from May-November.

6. Hike in the rainforest parks

Parque Metropolitano is a rainforest in the center of the city, a short 15-minute walk from the Albrook Shopping Center. Admission is only $4 USD and, if you hike up to the top of Cedar Hill, you’ll have fantastic views over the city. Keep an eye out for sloths, toucans, hummingbirds, pacas, monkeys, and anteaters. Parque Soberania (admission $5 USD) stretches along the shores of the Panama Canal and is the most easily accessible rainforest from Panama City. This park is a bird watchers’ paradise, with over 500 different species. The ride from Panama City takes 25 mins. Parque Chagres (also $5 USD) is a bit further away (it’s about 65 kilometers/40 miles north of Panama City) but worth the trip for the variety of wildlife: 114 mammal species (including big cats), 96 species of reptiles and 396 species of birds!

7. Spot wildlife at Volcan Baru

Volcan Baru is the only volcano in Panama, and, at 11,500 feet, also the highest point in the country. The lower slopes are home to dozens of coffee plantations, while the higher ground is part of the Volcan Baru National Park. Bring your camera as the rainforest here is a good place to spot the colorful Resplendent Quetzal, which is considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world for its bright coloring. Expect to pay around $75-85 USD for a guided hike. For $120-150 USD, you can take a bumpy 4×4 ride up to the summit at the crack of dawn to see the sunrise. You can also hike the volcano independently.

8. Surf in Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina, located on Panama’s Pacific Coast, a six-hour drive west of Panama City, is a hotspot with the surfing community. Only 300 people live in this town on the Pacific coast, so don’t come here expecting fancy resorts or high-end dining. This is the place to be if you want to catch some fantastic waves and relax on some sandy beaches. If you want to learn how to surf, check out the surf camps where you can pay $225 for two-day camps and that includes accommodation, food, surfboard rentals, and lessons. For private lessons, expect to pay around $40 USD for a two-hour class.

9. Canoe to Embera Indian Village

To get to this village, which is located inside Chagres National Park, you’ll need to paddle up the Chagres river in a dugout canoe and then walk through a rainforest, giving you the chance to really immerse yourself in the surrounding nature. When you finally meet the Embera tribe you’ll be offered traditional food, music, and dancing followed by the chance to buy the tribe’s handicrafts or go for a swim under a waterfall. Day tours from Panama City cost between $85-175 USD per person, depending on how many people are going.

10. Explore Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo (“Old Quarter”) is the historic district of Panama City and the oldest city in all of the Americas. These days, the city’s red-bricked streets are lined with restaurants, cafes and bars, though the Spanish-colonial style architecture makes Casco Viejo feel worlds apart from the glitzy skyscrapers of the newer parts of Panama City. There’s a coastal fortification walk, churches, and cute little squares to admire. It’s a popular place to stay and eat in and watch the sunset from one of the many rooftop bars. Head to Mercado de Mariscos (the fish market) for a $3 USD cup of ceviche (a dish of diced fish that has been cured in lemon juice, with onions, peppers, and spices).

  For more information on specific cities in Panama, check out these guides:

• Boquete Travel Guide
• Panama City Travel Guide

Panama Travel Costs

Note: Panama uses both the Panamanian Balboa (PAB) and US Dollars. Even though the PAB still exists, US Dollars predominate in day-to-day use (you’d be hard pressed to even find Balboas when visiting Panama).

Also, be advised that ATMs can be found in all larger towns and in touristy areas like Bocas del Toro, but if you’re planning to venture off the beaten path, check beforehand if there’s an ATM, or take out enough cash in advance. The San Blas Islands, for example, do not have any ATMs. Be aware that in most of Panama outside the capital, cash is king, and credit cards aren’t accepted in a lot of places.

Accommodation – Accommodation is cheap in Panama with a night in a hostel dorm costing $12-30 USD for a 6-8-bed dorm. A 10-bed dorm is usually around $10 USD. Private rooms range from $25-45 USD per night. All hostels offer free Wi-Fi and some include free breakfast.

Prices don’t really fluctuate much in the off-season – you might end up paying $1-2 USD less per night, but it isn’t significant.

Camping is available around the country at $5-10 USD per night for a basic plot for a tent without electricity.

Budget two-star hotels start around $30 USD per night. For a 3-star hotel or higher, expect to pay at least $65-80 USD per night. In the off-season, prices drop $5-10 USD per night.

Airbnb is available around the country, with an entire home or apartment starting at $50 USD per night (but average double that price or more). Private rooms start at $20 USD per night but usually average triple that price. Book in advance for the best deals.

Food – Panamanian cuisine features rice, black beans, yuca (a starchy vegetable similar to the potato), plantains, beef, chicken, and seafood. Common dishes include empanadas, chicken and rice, fried fish, and ceviche (a raw fish dish with lemon).

Local food-stall meals cost around $3-5 USD and get you chicken, rice, and beans. In a specialty coffee shop, you’ll pay between $3.50-5 USD for a coffee in Panama City, and between $2-4 USD in Boquete. Fish markets anywhere in the country usually have freshly-caught lunches for around $6 USD.

Breakfast is around $5 USD in a sit-down restaurant while a sandwich in a restaurant with table service averages $6-9 USD. Restaurants with table service generally cost around $10 per meal but remember to avoid restaurants with English menus as they’re usually more expensive.

For a nice meal with wine, expect to pay around $40 USD for 2-3 courses. A pint of domestic beer at a bar costs around $2.50 USD.

If you want to cook for yourself, expect to pay between $35-50 USD for a week’s worth of groceries including staples like fruit, veggies, rice, beans, and some meat.

Backpacking Panama Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking around Panama City, expect to spend about $45 USD per day. This includes staying in a hostel dorm, limiting your drinking, cooking your meals, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free and cheap activities like hiking and wandering the Old Town.

On a mid-range budget of around $150 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, enjoy a few drinks, eat out for a few meals, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like visiting the canal.

On a “luxury” budget of $220 USD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Panama Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Panama isn’t hugely expensive but it is more expensive than other countries in the region so you’ll have to work a little to save money here. Here are some of the best ways to save money in Panama:

• Travel off-season – Traveling is cheaper during the rainy season, between April and November. Most tourists visit Panama between December and April – that’s when hotel prices go up, especially in popular destinations like Bocas del Toro.
• Eat at the local food stands – Meals at local food stalls cost between $4-5 USD. You’ll get rice, chicken, beans, and a drink. I didn’t love the food in Panama (it’s quite greasy) but at those prices, it made eating very cheap.
• Avoid taxis – I found taxis here to be a complete rip-off. As my friend JP says, “You get Gringoed.” They were also far more unwilling to negotiate. I’d try to avoid them if possible.
• Refill your water – In most of the country, you can drink the tap water. There’s no need to always buy new water bottles so save yourself a few dollars a day and fill up from the tap. The only places you can’t drink from the tap are the islands (including Bocas del Toro). To ensure your water is safe, use a LifeStraw water filter .
• Stick to beer – Beer is much cheaper than cocktails so stick to beer if you go out drinking. It’s much cheaper!
• Carry small change – Most taxis and small shops won’t accept larger bills for small purchases so make sure you carry change.
• Embrace the bus! – Long-distance buses in Panama are a few steps above the infamous “chicken buses” so often found here in Central and South America. While a far cry from luxurious, they are good enough for long-distance journeys if you’re on a budget (there are still plenty of chicken buses though if you want to give them a try!).
• Stay with a local – There are tons of hosts (and lots of community events) in the larger cities of Panama, making this a great country to Couchsurf in. Pick up some tips and save some money by staying with a local!
• Barter hard – If you’re hopping ferries around Bocas del Toro make sure you barter hard. Much like the taxis in the city, you’ll likely be charged more than the locals so barter hard and make sure you know what you should be paying.

Where to Stay in Panama

Panama has plenty of fun and social hostels to stay at. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Hostal Casa Areka (Panama City)
• Magnolia Inn Casco Viejo (Panama City)
• El Machio (Panama City)
• Bambuda Castle (Boquete)
• Spanish By the River (Boquete)
• Bambuda Lodge (Bocas del Toro)

How to Get Around Panama

Long-distance buses are usually modern and air-conditioned, and night buses exist for longer journeys (like Panama City to Bocas del Toro). There is no online ticket booking system in Panama, you just show up at the bus station and buy your ticket at the counter.

For most routes, you can buy same-day tickets, but for night buses and longer journeys, it is recommended to buy your ticket a day in advance. Expect very basic buses in the smaller towns around the country – you’ll be riding Diablos Rojos (“Red Devils”): old repurposed American school buses that are colorfully painted.

There are two companies that offer services from Panama City all the way to Costa Rica: Expreso Panama and Tica Bus. Their ticket offices are inside the main bus station in Panama City which is inside the Albrook Mall.

Train – Train travel doesn’t exist in Panama. The Panama Canal Railway operates one train between Ciudad Panama and Colon on weekdays and that’s it.

Flying – Air travel is possible within Panama but is not recommended. The most common domestic connection is between Panama City and Bocas del Toro. The 1-hr flight is between $130-$145 USD. You can also fly from Panama City to David (near Boquete), Pedasi, Chitre, the San Blas Islands and the Pearl Islands. The 1-hr flight from Panama City to David costs $134 USD, vs. a 6-hr bus ride for only $9 USD.

If you’re on a budget, I wouldn’t recommend flying.

Car Rental – It is safe to drive in Panama, but be aware that rental agencies are scarce outside Panama City. Rentals cost around $15-20 USD per day. Websites like Expedia often advertise car rentals from $1 USD per day, but be aware that rental agencies charge additional fees and insurance. Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 25, though some will accept drivers at 21 if they have a credit card.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Panama

Panama has a short dry season between December and April, which is when you’ll get to enjoy clear blue skies. That said, Panama is less than 9 degrees north of the equator, which means temperatures are consistent year-round. The lowland regions are always hot and humid, but the highlands (Boquete, El Valle, Cerro Punta) can give you a bit of retreat from the heat – at least at night when it is a little cooler there.

Daytime temperatures in Panama average 30-33°C (86-91°F), and nighttime temperatures are around 21-23°C (69-73°F).

The rainy season lasts from May to December, but keep in mind that it usually only rains from late afternoon into the night. That means mornings and early afternoons can still be enjoyed. The rainiest month is November. If you visit during the rainy season, pack a rain jacket and avoid the highlands.

You never really have to avoid peak-season crowds in Panama; it’s never very crowded here, aside from certain areas (like Panama City) where cruise ships dock and crowds flood the streets for a few hours each day.

How to Stay Safe in Panama

Like neighboring Costa Rica, Panama is one of the safest countries for traveling and backpacking in Central America . That said, you’ll still want to be vigilant for petty crime.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is one of the most common types of crime in Central America and it happens a lot in parts of Panama City as well as Colon. Always be vigilant and make sure your bag is properly worn and never left unattended.

The only city in Panama that is considered dangerous is Colon. Colon has the highest homicide rate of any municipality in Panama and you don’t want to wander after dark. Panama City, Herrera, and Chiriqui also have higher petty crime rates than elsewhere in the country so keep your valuables secure and do your best to fit in.

Some neighborhoods in Panama City can be a bit sketchy, including Curundu, El Chorrillo (which surrounds the neighborhood of Casco Viejo) and El Marañón. Avoid these areas after dark and don’t flash valuables like your phone or expensive jewelry.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

The Darien Gap, the border region between Panama and Colombia, is considered extremely dangerous due to Colombian rebel groups and drug traffickers who operate there, but it isn’t really on travelers’ itineraries so it’s unlikely you’ll be anywhere near that but, if you are, keep a watchful eye out.

Don’t carry more cash on you than you’re planning to spend, and leave your passport and credit cards in your hotel room/hostel. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Panama Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Panama Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Panama

Panama seems to delight tourists and backpackers with an unfussy, laid-back vibe and some genuinely beautiful spots to visit, including a handful of trendy surf resorts, sleepy mountain enclaves, paradise-esque archipelagos, and dramatic diving spots.

From my time exploring this extraordinary country, here are some places I want to share with you…

1. San Blas Islands

The pretty islands of the San Blas archipelago stretch along the Caribbean coast of Panama from San Blas Bay to the Colombian border. Many backpackers love this spot and travel here before or after exploring Costa Rica .

Visit San Blas islands, and you will travel 20 centuries back into the past to discover traditional Indian crafts, hear captivating legends, and familiarize yourself with Indian music and dances; it’s a gem! 

The economy of the islands is based on coconut cultivation and tourism. In my opinion, the most fascinating islands are Achutupu, Kagantupu, and Coco Blanco.

My favorite highlights…

• Spending a night in an Instagrammable over-water cabin which was a very unique experience! 
• Taking a boat tour around several beautiful islands and admiring the stunning scenery.
• Going scuba diving and seeing the gorgeous coral reefs and colorful marine life.

Book A Trip!

We can book your trip hopping around Panama’s beautiful places through our free, top-rated travel planning service !

2. Panama Canal

The monumental Canal is one of the modern world wonders. The Panama Canal is 82 kilometers long and connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

More than 12,000 ocean-bound vessels pass through its lock system annually. The Canal’s thread stretches across a series of ancient lakes and marshes, and its banks are adorned with a wide strip of virgin forests.

In my opinion, the best place to observe ships is located northeast of Panama City, near the walls of the enormous seven-hundred-ton sluice gate Miraflores.

My personal highlights…

• Exploring the Miraflores Visitor Center, a four-story interactive museum and learning about the canal’s history.
• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot overlooking the canal. 
• Seeing the locks working! 

3. Playa Venao

The Azuero Peninsula is buzz-worthy for its beaches, and I was a big fan. The most famous is Playa Venao, which is 35 km from Pedasi.

This tropical paradise is perfect for recreational vacations and waves conquering. The sea in this spot creates steady waves up to three meters high with “barrel” and “tube” silhouettes.

Water sports enthusiasts worldwide rush to Playa Venao to hone and show off their surfing skills. Diving enthusiasts also appreciate the beach.

The shore is dotted with diving schools where one can rent gear and take lessons from experienced instructors. If you are not a big fan of outdoor activities, I recommend sunbathing on the beach, swimming in the warm sea, having a snack at one of the beach restaurants, or trying a signature cocktail at an open-air bar.

My highlights…

• Taking surf lessons at the local surf school.
• Enjoying cocktails and looking at the sunset at Selina’s Beach Bar (there are also some lively beach parties after dark).
• Relaxing with a rejuvenating massage at the Nourish Spa.

4. Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is a chain of islands in the mouth of the Chiriqui lagoon in the country’s northeast. The archipelago consists of 9 relatively large islands, 52 small islands, and more than 200 islets. It is also a backpacking and tourist beauty spot.

Boasting green palm forests, a vast coastline of white sand, and crystal clear water, Bocas del Toro is one of Panama’s most famous tourist areas, and for good reason: it’s seriously stunning! Pristine landscapes are interspersed with modern resorts.

Fans of scuba diving and sea fishing flock to the islands all year round to see some of the best coral reefs on the planet, much loved for their unique underwater gardens. The reefs are home to stingrays, lobsters, crabs, and countless tropical fish species, so I highly recommend snorkeling here!

• Renting an E-bike and exploring Bocas Town before reaching the beautiful Playa Bluff beach.
• Strolling along the breathtaking white sand beaches and photographing the spectacular sea views.
• Watching the experienced surfers ride the incredible waves.

5. Casco Viejo

The attractive area of Casco Viejo sits east of Panama City, the country’s capital and I loved this place! This is the very first settlement built by Europeans on the Pacific coast. It was founded in 1519 and soon became one of the most important trading centers on the continent.

The transit route from Peru to the Old World, carrying the Incas’ gold and silver, ran through the town. In 1671, a pirate raid led by Henry Morgan almost razed Panama Viejo, leaving behind countless ruins.

However, some of the buildings survived until this day, namely, the square tower of the Cathedral de Panama Viejo, ruins of Santo Domingo and San Francisco convents, the well-preserved La Merced church and San José temple, the King’s Bridge, as well as remnants of the walls that served as protection against pirates.

At the end of the past century, the old quarters of Panama Viejo were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Sipping on a cup of coffee made from the famous geisha beans, which were locally grown.
• Wandering to the Plaza Francia and photographing the skylines of the city.
• Shopping for the colorful handmade traditional crafts.

6. El Valle de Antón

El Valle de Anton is a town and eponymous nature reserve settled in the crater of a long-extinct volcano that rises to 600 m above sea level and has a diameter of almost 5 km.

The reserve is valued for its unique wet mountain forest ecosystem, and in my opinion, it’s worth visiting. The jungle is carved by tourist routes leading from one attraction to another. The spellbinding waterfalls Chorro de Las Mozas and Chorro El Macho are the highlights of El Valle de Anton.

The surrounding forests are steeped in orchids and the national flower of Panama, Flor del Espiritu Santo (The flower of the Holy Spirit). The ample foliage conceals Rana Dorada, a rare frog with an amusing appearance.

Thanks to its volcanic origin, this place has preserved some traces of geothermal activity, boiling thermal springs, and healing mud pools featuring a unique mineral composition.

• Enjoying a sunrise hike via the scenic Sleeping Indian Trail.
• Crossing the high suspension bridge through the rainforest and reaching the stunning El Macho Waterfall. 
• Visiting the vibrant farmer’s market (which was open seven days a week) and sampling local food and produce, such as the tasty deep-fried thin plantains.

7. Pearl Islands

The Pearl Islands lie 40 miles southeast of Panama City in the Gulf of Panama. Comprised of 97 islands, the archipelago became known to Europeans in 1513 when an Indian chief revealed a secret about the mysterious islands adorned with pearls.

Since then, pearl mining has become the leading trade on the islands. Still, the archipelago became one of the favourite holiday destinations for the great and the good (former US President Jimmy Carter, Spanish Prime Minister Adolfo Suarez Gonzalez, and the Shah of Iran stayed here), and I was a big fan, too!

The Pearl Islands have 83 excellent beaches, numerous lovely hotels and guest houses, and one of the most attractive snorkeling spots.

• Kayaking on the pristine waters, which took me past gorgeous scenery.
• Relaxing on the gorgeous Isla Saboga which offered a lovely restaurant and great snorkelling.
• Exploring the lush jungles on foot with a local guide.

8. Gulf of Chiriquí

Founded in 1994, the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park is located on the Pacific coast of Panama in the bay of the same name.

The park is spread across 25 volcanic islands covered with pristine tropical forest. The tranquil waters around the islands are considered the best diving place, and I would highly recommend diving here if you can. They accommodate the second-largest coral reef in the eastern part of the Pacific.

Divers can contact reef inhabitants such as whales, sharks, manta rays, and dolphins. The jagged volcanic peaks rising 30-60 meters above sea level are replete with various species, while the coastal areas allow spotting relict forms of flora and fauna.

For instance, super-cute sea turtles can be observed nesting on the local beaches.

• Hiking the Lost Waterfalls Trail, where I discovered three breathtaking natural showers.
• Climbing up to the highest peak in Panama, Volcan Baru National Park and finding awe-inspiring views overlooking the ocean.
• Dining on tasty deep-fried vegetable tempura at the trendy Christopher’s American Bistro. 

9. Soberania National Park

Located 40 km north of Panama City, the Soberania National Park boasts extensive swaths of tropical forest. It is one of the best birdwatching spots in the world, inhabited by about a thousand feathered species.

Soberania Park is the only place to observe the Crowned Eagle and the Sunbittern. The park retooled the former five-floor radar tower to make birdwatching more convenient. I suggest heading for their observation deck to see rare birds in their natural environment! 

Dense rainforests have diverse natural features that are ideal for hiking. The park’s highlight is the striking thickets of cotton trees towering 60 meters above the sky. Some of the routes have comfortable campgrounds.

• Climbing up to the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center’s spiral staircase and seeing an incredible bird’s eye view above the canopy.
• Hiking the scenic Plantation Road trail which was home to several waterfall viewpoints and exotic tropical plants.
• Going for a swim in the natural pools of the El Charco Trail, surrounded by picnic spots and scenic beauty.

10. Boquete

A small village, Boquete is one of Panama’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s also very pretty. Nestled in the valley of the Caldera River, it is surrounded by mountains on three sides, which largely determine its landscape.

In the west, Boquete borders the Baru volcano. From the north, the town is confined by the Talamanca mountain range. The city’s eastern outskirts merge with the Jaramillo Mountains. Boquete starts a fascinating seven-hour journey to the Baru volcano, the country’s highest summit.

At its top, you will be amazed by the magnificent view of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The town also features cozy parks, coffee plantations, and an abandoned palace (I recommend visiting!).

Accompanied by a guide, you can explore the jungles teeming with exotic birds, including Quetzal, the sacred Indian bird with bright plumage and a long tail. While hiking in the jungles, you can check out waterfalls and a mountain canyon with a pure water pool.

• Trying out the fun zipline, which overlooked the forest.
• Going on the hanging bridges tour, the bridge here is Central America’s second longest and highest.
• Going on an interesting jungle tour and seeing incredible birdlife.

11. Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is one of the best surfing spots in Panama. This small village is located in the Veraguas province on the coast of the Gulf of Chiriquí. Santa Catalina’s beaches, Playa Santa Catalina and Playa Estero are known for mighty waves up to 10 meters high.

The ebb and flow fluctuate within 8 meters, thus creating solid tides. The beaches are smeared with black volcanic sand and offer a stunning view of the sun setting behind the horizon. You might want to explore other bay beaches just outside Santa Catalina.

The walk will take approximately 2.5-3.5 hours. You can rent a small boat or a yacht for an incredible sailing experience or a trip on the high seas.

• Watching the surfers ride the waves at La Punta Beach.
• Watching the sun go down at La Coquita home to spectacular black sand shadows at night.
• Kayaking over to the white sand beach on Isla Catalina and hiking up to the viewpoint on the island.

12. Isla Taboga

Twenty kilometers from Panama City is the charming, historic Taboga Island. Four centuries ago, it was the site of the first deepwater port in the region.

Frequent pirate raids forced the locals to build a system of defensive structures on the nearby Island of El Morro.

They had served for three hundred years and, in the XIX century, were used as the headquarters of the Pacific Steam Company.

The pirates’ defences have been preserved to this day. Besides them, Isla Taboga is famous for its beaches, observation platform near the walls of the old American military bunker, the oldest in Latin America church of the XVI-XVII centuries, an array of tropical rainforests, a variety of hibiscus and bougainvillea gardens, and one of the largest colonies of brown pelicans.

• Strolling through the quiet Spanish-settled village, which was filled with pretty colorful houses.
• Spending the day sunbathing on Playa Restinga and walking along the sandbar to Isla El Morro during low tide.
• Walking to the viewpoint at Cerro de la Cruz and seeing a spectacular view of the island and the surrounding ocean.

13. Sunset Coast, Azuero Peninsula

Sunset Coast is named for its expansive coastline in the western portion of the Azuero Peninsula. You will love visiting Sunset Coast because, with the Azuero Peninsula’s shape, this is the only area where you can see a breathtaking coastline sunset, hence its name. 

When you visit Sunset Coast, I suggest stopping by Coiba National Park to see the most extensive coral reef in the Pacific. Jump in and go scuba diving or snorkeling to catch the beautiful coral reef. I recommend deep-sea diving for one of the best undersea experiences worldwide! 

Jaguars, crested eagles, and howler monkeys inhabit Coiba National Park and the bird-watching opportunities here are also incredible; I was lucky enough to spot a scarlet macaw! 

• Catching a magnificent sunset over the coastline with a tropical cocktail in hand!
• Going snorkeling and seeing the pretty coral reef. 
• Trying fun boogie boarding (which was easier than my surf lessons)!

14. Los Cangilones

Los Cangliones is your go-to destination for village shopping and canyon views while jumping in the nearby waters. The bus to get there is cheap and only costs $1.50 per person per ride. A mini supermarket greets you when the bus drops you off so you can pick up any snacks or beach supplies you need. 

It is a short walk to the canyons and waters, where you can privately sunbathe, swim, and sightsee, depending on how many people are nearby.

I would suggest packing a big picnic to enjoy the gorgeous views after a fun swim in the water! 

• Buying a packed lunch at the local supermarket and spending a day by the canyons.
• Watching the braver visitors jump off the natural rock formations into the aqua-colored waters.
• Swimming through the crystal-clear canyon that stretches over 40 meters in length.

15. Punta Chame

Punta Chame is a tiny city with only a population of 443, but the beaches are untouched and beautiful. The waters to the left are shallower and calmer, so it is easier for you to go kitesurfing. 

Walk the white sand for a lovely beachside experience. Be prepared because it goes 22 miles long. A portion of the beach meets the Pacific Ocean. Make it a whole day trip to explore this stretch of beach land to see its vast beauty while taking some swims in between. 

Be mindful of jellyfish in the water or washed up on the beach. They can sting even when they are dead, so tread with caution. 

• Hiring a paddleboard which was a fun way to explore the coast!
• Exploring the petite city’s fishing village and surrounding areas by bike.
• Trying kite surfing! The ocean conditions here are perfect for all abilities.

16. Isla Perro

This paradise-like Island is part of the San Blas Islands but deserves a special mention. Crystal blue waters and tropical palm trees surround the small island.

Because of its clean waters, snorkelers love to explore marine life throughout Guna Yala. 

The most unique aspect of Isla Perro is the shipwreck in front of the Island. Snorkelers can find artefacts from the army gunboat washed ashore many years ago. You may see the rusty bow protruding from the water with a low tide. 

If you do not want the water adventure to end, rent one of the 30 campsites available. Then, the next day, you can explore more of the territory. 

• Going snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters and discovering a shipwreck and a pretty coral reef.
• Capturing images of the dreamy palm trees and stunning clear water for my Instagram.
• Trying volleyball on their court (I wasn’t much good, though, sadly)! 

Pedasi is a small fishing town famous for year-round comfortable weather, residential colonial-style buildings, and many beaches in its vicinity.

The main natural highlight of Pedasi is Isla Iguana. This nature reserve occupies 52 hectares and is surrounded by coral reefs. More than 62 species of birds found their home here, many of which, such as the Lesser Frigatebird, are under state protection.

It is also a reptile habitat, including the black iguana named the Island. Tropical fish, moray eels, and turtles live in the waters, while humpback whales stay here briefly during the migration seasons.

The local waters are bristling with various fish, including ten tuna species. So, I would recommend wildlife spotting here! 

• Indulging in delicious freshly made ceviche at Restaurante El Chichemito.
• Attending the fun Barro Fest in February and watching loads of live bands!
• Going on an incredible Turtle Watching Tour and spotting super cute sea turtles.

18. Isla Grande

Isla Grande, the country’s largest Island, is located 15 km from the historical town Portobelo. The coast of the Island houses magnificent beaches with white sand and turquoise water.

Suppose you decide to soak up the sun. The beaches have everything you need: sunbeds, umbrellas, coastal bars with various exotic drinks, and cozy restaurants to get acquainted with traditional Panamanian cuisine. Active recreation buffs will find many appealing activities, too.

The waters of Isla Grande are dripping with coral reefs, creating an ideal backdrop for diving, snorkeling, and surfing. If you want to learn more about the traditions and customs of Panama, be sure to visit one of the local resorts with an authentic Caribbean vibe.

I recommend stopping by Portobello and enjoying its medieval charm if you have spare hours.

• Sipping on a handcrafted signature cocktail at The OC Bar & Lounge which offered stunning views overlooking the Caribbean Ocean.
• Taking a boat tour around the coastline and seeing beautiful vegetation landscape.
• Dining on freshly made sushi at La Playita restaurant.

19. Panama City

The capital of Panama is a modern, thriving city stretched 10 km along the Pacific coast from the ruins of Panama Viejo in the east to the coast of the Panama Canal in the west.

The highlight of Panama City is vibrant contrasts, a fusion of ancient history and contemporary architecture of the XXI century.

Like the United Arab Emirates, its business center has formidable skyscrapers. Lively, modern areas are side by side with quiet streets imbued with history.

The city has a business feel, so I think it doesn’t have much for tourists here, but the city’s most picturesque historic district is the old town of San Felipe. This area impresses with ancient architecture and miraculously preserved traditions.

I recommend exploring the square, museums, churches, and the monastery ruins. If you need to recharge your batteries, I suggest stopping at one of its cosmopolitan restaurants.

• Wandering through Casco Viejo’s streets and admiring the Old Town Quarter’s pretty architecture.
• Checking out the large Artisan Market which was filled with handcrafted products.
• Visiting Plaza De La Independencia which was home to boutiques and traditional restaurants.

20. Península de Azuero

The Azuero Peninsula is an unassuming place that blends rich culture, fantastic architecture, and fascinating history, and I would highly recommend visiting! 

The peninsula consists of three provinces: Herrera, Los Santos, and Veraguas, resulting in two regions – The East and the West. The East area is famous for its annual lively activities, including its carnival. Pedasí is your place if you are a surfing and nature fan.

A charming fishing town surrounded by Spanish colonial architecture. The West area is well-known for its stunning beaches and focus on farming.

• Attending the fabulous and very Carnaval  de Las Tablas (which takes place here every February)
• Dancing the night away at a fabulous beach party.
• Relaxing at Sansara Surf and Yoga Resort.

21. Cerro Ancon

It is free to hike the area of 654 feet in elevation, and it takes only 30 minutes to complete the entire venture. The trail is home to a jungle inside a city of over 1 million individuals. 

Watch for the incline as you hike. During your journey, you can see Casa Viejo, which has scenic views of the Panama Canal. The Bridge of the Americas is a sight to behold above the Canal. 

The Miraflores Locks is one of the three locks throughout the Panama Canal and is named after the gate to the Pacific. 

• Photographing the breathtaking scenery at various stops along the trail.
• Seeing incredible views of the Panama Canal.

Becky Moore - Owner, writer and photographer My first true adventure began as a six-month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh-faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi-nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in the warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds, and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex-Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland. Hotel Reviewing Experience - published hotel review in the 52 Sleeps Book organised by Laterooms.com and Lonely Planet. Asked by over 12 tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Canada Tourist Board , Eviivo , France.fr , Visitoostende.be , Live Riga and Queensland Tourist Board . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . I’ve also been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic , The Times , LA Weekly , Yahoo Travel , Huffington Post , Business Insider , Thrillist , British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur , Daily Express , Wanderlust , Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and Metro . Winner of Travel Blog of the Year . Find me on Linkedin or Facebook .

6 thoughts on “21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Panama”

No doubt Panama is a great place to visit for every tourist around the world. Santa Catalina is my favorite place for surfing in Panama. It is a great adventurous point for those who like adventures.

Great clicks u take ..my favorite is Isla Grande great place .i heard lots of good about this place

I loved Panama when I visited, although I think I preferred Costa Rica at a push!

Panama is a really underrated destination, you’ve really captured its beauty here!

I’m heading to Central America soon so this list is perfect! Looks wonderful!

What a fantastic blog. Absolutely amazing photos and information you shared in a attractive ways. I love to read travel blog as well as write something differently…Thanks for sharing this nice piece.

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Panama

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

With access to both the turquoise Caribbean and the azure Pacific, Panama is attractively tropical all year round. Add to that excellent beaches and phenomenal natural scenery, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in Central America.

While it may be known for its iconic shipping waterway that connects the Pacific to the Atlantic, Panama has so much more to offer visitors than the Panama Canal – although seeing this humanmade masterpiece is unforgettable. From mountain villages and skyscraper cities to coffee plantations and island archipelagos, there is something in Panama for everyone. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Panama:

10. El Valle de Anton [SEE MAP]

El Valle de Anton is a picturesque little Panamanian village in the Cocle Province of Central Panama. Surrounded by an ancient volcanic caldera, local families have been climbing the hills and swimming here for centuries, making it the oldest continually occupied volcanic site on Earth. Due to its isolation from the rest of civilization, it’s a prime example of Old Panama, where life is slower and the preferred mode of transport is a bicycle.

You won’t find much of western consumerist culture in the village – the most touristy options are an ice cream parlor and a pizza place open only on weekends. Instead, the focus in El Valle de Anton is on nature – and there’s plenty of it. Visit the local orchid conservatory or the amphibian rescue station, home to just some of Panama’s 10,000-strong plants and hundreds of amphibian species. Nearby forests offer excellent bird-watching, and the valleys of El Valle are home to an impressive set of waterfalls as well as some rare golden frogs.

9. Pearl Islands [SEE MAP]

Panama’s Pearl Islands are a cluster of islands in the Pacific that featured heavily during three seasons of the reality TV show Survivor. Some of the most beautiful islands in the world, they’re characterized by forested islands and pearl-white sandy beaches. While the majority of the islands’ beauty lies in their isolation, Contadora Island is the most developed and boasts two luxury tourist resorts.

Once home to native Indians until the 16th-century, the Pearl Islands were then taken over by the Spanish, who came in search of pearls, the island’s sought-after namesake. The pearl industry was prominent here, and they were counted, registered, and shipped from Contadora Island (which means ‘Counting Island’). Most of the activity surrounds relaxation: sunbathe on one of the many superb beaches, fish, and whale watch, or explore the old shipwreck that lies rusting away on the far side of Playa Larga, Contadora Island’s biggest beach.

8. Volcan Baru [SEE MAP]

Volcan Baru is the highest peak in Panama, offering some of the most amazing views over Costa Rica and the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Located in the Chiriqui Province of the Pacific West, the mountain is best reached at dawn, when you can witness an enchanting sunrise from the top. There are two ways you can ensure you reach the top in time: either you can start the hike around midnight and hike back later in the day, or you can hike up the day before and camp at Fogones campground near the summit.

There are two routes to choose from. The Boquete route is the easiest (yet still very challenging) and takes five to eight hours to ascend and three to five hours to descend. Many people prefer to take the Boquete route up and the Volcan route down, which is steeper and much more scenic. As you’ll climb a total of 3,474 meters above sea level, make sure you allow enough time to acclimatize, as mild altitude sickness is a risk.

7. Gulf of Chiriqui [SEE MAP]

The Gulf of Chiriquí stretches along the Pacific coastline between Costa Rica and the Azuero Peninsula. It’s made up of countless scenic marine islands and beaches topped with forests and coco palms, including two national parks – Golfo de Chiriquí National Park and Coiba National Park, which is also the largest island in Panama.

Established in 1994, this marine park protects thousands of hectares of coral reefs, some of the richest mangrove forests in Central America, and some glorious coastal meadows. The most touristy offerings can be found on the islands of Cala Mia Island Resort, Isla Palenque, and Isla Secas.

Coiba National Park is a popular spot for humpback whale watching between May and November, and Galapagos seals can sometimes be seen on the far-away island of Montuosa. For those who prefer to just hang out and soak up the island life, sunbathing on one of the amazing beaches is encouraged, while those in search of a little more activity can find it surfing, scuba diving, or sport fishing.

6. Boquete [SEE MAP]

Located in the Chiriqui province in the Pacific West, Boquete village is a great place to enjoy a little R&R. Enjoy plenty of fresh mountain air while surrounded by a patchwork of beautiful coffee plantations. Home to a surprising number of North American expats, this small-town mountain village has become a destination for health tourism, with a number of luxury spas and hotels.

For those in search of adrenalin, Boquete has a focus on the outdoors, with a pleasant temperature in the low 70s all year round – something that’s given it its nickname ‘The Land of Eternal Springtime.’ It’s also dubbed ‘the Valley of the Flowers’ and offers a lesser-known alternative to Costa Rica’s tourism draws. You can be as adventurous as you dare here. Go zip-lining through the rainforest, white water rafting, hike the Baru volcano, or trek in search of howler monkeys and resplendent quetzal. Or simply take your time exploring the region’s picturesque coffee plantations sipping on some of the world’s best brews.

5. Santa Catalina [SEE MAP]

It may just be a quiet fishing village off Panama’s Pacific coast, but Santa Catalina is one of the country’s top tourist destinations. In fact, it is the village’s remoteness and unspoiled authenticity that appeals to most travelers. Adding to that, Santa Catalina is a popular surfing and diving spot with fantastic beaches as well as a frequent gateway to the Coiba National Marine Park.

Santa Catalina is small enough that it can be explored completely by walking. Tourists will not find any major landmarks, man-made attractions or shopping malls in this quaint village, but what they will discover are friendly people, a laid-back atmosphere and sandy beaches offering swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sport fishing. With some of the best and most regular surf breaks in all of Central America, Santa Catalina is also a surfer’s dream. The idyllic landscapes surrounding the village present horseback riding and birdwatching opportunities.

As Santa Catalina can only be reached by a single yet windy paved road from Sona, it’s advised that you travel during daylight hours as cattle can cause sudden dangerous roadblocks.

4. San Blas Islands [SEE MAP]

The San Blas Islands are a collection of islands off the Caribbean coast. They’re self-governed by the indigenous Kuna Yala tribe, who speak Tulekaya – their own language. A popular backpacker destination on the route between Colombia and Panama, the islands are slowly becoming more touristy. Yet even today, you can witness everyday life in an indigenous community where electricity isn’t always a given and ATMs are non-existent. Visitors are advised to bring plenty of cash for their visit.

Time spent on the San Blas Islands consists of sunbathing on the pristine, palm-lined beaches as well as swimming, snorkeling and diving among hundreds of tropical fish species. Hiking trails amid lush vegetation offer views of colorful birds and calls of howler monkeys. Visiting the Kuna Yala Indians is a good way to learn about their language, traditions, music and distinctive dress. The tribe members often host festivals and dances as well as sell handicrafts, which make good souvenirs.

3. Bocas del Toro [SEE MAP]

The Bocas del Toro Archipelago is a cluster of islands, islets, and cays between Almirante Bay and Chiriqui Lagoon in the Caribbean Sea. Located in the north-western region of Panama, the island group is part of the district and province of Bocas del Toro, and is also home to a significant city of the same name.

Visitors can explore the islands easily via water taxis and private boats, while Isla Colon is also accessible via ferry and plane with an international airport. A magical wonderland of wild jungle, national parks, and biodiverse habitats for a plethora of birds and marine turtles, a href=”https://www.touropia.com/best-places-to-stay-in-bocas-del-toro/” target=”_blank”>Bocas del Toro is home to fascinating fauna and flora – some of which can only be found here. Endangered species include painted rabbits, green iguanas, and howler monkeys.

Like the rest of the Caribbean, with gorgeous beaches and beautiful blue waters, diving and snorkeling are popular activities. The province’s capital city, Bocas del Toro, is a melting pot of ethnicities – from Western Caribe to Latino’s and extraneros – with plenty of food and traditions aligned with each. Plus, while most of the islands are focused around chilling out, Bocas Town has a surprisingly good nightlife scene when the sun goes down.

2. Panama City [SEE MAP]

Panama’s capital and largest city, Panama City has plenty to shout about. As the national and provincial capital, it’s also the most modern city in Central America. To give you an idea of its modernity, it’s unofficially dubbed ‘the Dubai of Latin America’ You’ll find high-end resorts, shopping malls, and glitzy skyscrapers lining every meter of the city.

Like New York, the preferred method of transport is by taxi. Most city-dwellers won’t walk more than half a mile on foot. If you prefer the flexibility of walking, the cobblestone streets and colonial buildings of the historic quarter, Casco Viejo, are more pedestrian-friendly.

Panama City is known for its excellent views surrounded by the Panamanian rainforest creeping into the confines of the city. Witness the might of the Panama Canal – undoubtedly the highlight in this multicultural capital – with a skydive, climb up the Bridge of the Americas for a fantastic view of the cityscape, or rent a bike and cycle to the four islands along the Amador Causeway.

1. Panama Canal [SEE MAP]

The Panama Canal is one of the most famous landmarks in Panama – and indeed, all of Central America. Running between Panama City on the Pacific side and Colon on the Atlantic side, the waterway provides a shortcut between two oceans, and one of the world’s most popular shipping zones. It was initially constructed by the French in the late 19th-century; however, the project was deserted in 1893 after thousands of workers fell ill and died from malaria, yellow fever, and other diseases.

A decade later, the United States took over, with much more powerful machinery. They were able to complete this massive feat of engineering in 1914. A total of three major locks give access to the canal system and are the best places to witness the mechanics of the canal in action, particularly from the Miraflores Visitor Center, just a short drive outside of the capital. It takes eight minutes to fill or release the water in each lock and raise or lower the ship to the next water level, where it passes through the next lock. All in all, it takes just ten hours in total for a ship to travel from one ocean to another.

Map of Panama

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Guide to Traveling in Panama

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Panama is so much more than its famed canal . The country’s curvy, narrow land mass serves as a physical—and cultural—land bridge between North and South America. But despite its global significance, Panama is often overlooked by tourists.

While Panama is more expensive than the rest of Central American countries, its natural beauty is unsurpassed. Imagine hundreds of idyllic, deserted islands scattered through warm seas ; densely forested wilderness; creatures as incredible as those in Dr. Seuss’s most imaginative books. Panama’s skinny isthmus holds all this, and much more.

Where Should I Go?

Panama City is one of the most cosmopolitan, culturally distinct, and enjoyable capital cities in all of Central America. Modern commercial buildings blend with cobbled streets and Spanish colonial architecture of centuries past. West of the capital lies the Panama Canal, the legendary feat of humankind that unites two entire oceans.

Panama’s most striking and popular archipelagos are Bocas del Toro and the San Blas Islands in the Caribbean, and the Pearl Islands in the Pacific. The Pearl Islands were featured on a season of the reality TV show, Survivor. The San Blas islands are noteworthy for being populated by the Kuna Indians—remarkable artisans. Book a long-term room on a major island (specifically, Bocas Town in Bocas del Toro, and Contadora in the Pearl Islands), and use it as a base to explore Panama’s hundreds of remote islands and islets.

Other worthwhile destinations are Boquete in the Chiriqui Province, an ecotourist’s dream in the southeast featuring volcanoes, waterfalls, and even the elusive quetzal; Boquete, a quaint town overflowing with flowers; and the Anton Valley, the largest inhabited dormant volcano in the world.

What Will I See?

Docked against Costa Rica in the northwest and Colombia in the southeast, Panama’s mountains, forests and oceans boast an exceptional biodiversity. In fact, the animal species of this unique country are as varied as any region in the world. Panama is home to 900 bird species —- more than the entire land mass of North America!

Those interested in experiencing true rainforest can visit the Soberania National Park, just 25 miles north of Panama City. The Bastimentos Marine National Park in Bocas del Toro offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in Central America.

Darien is one of the most dangerous areas in Panama, but also one of the most fascinating. The Pan-American highway, which stretches from Alaska to Argentina, is broken only at the Darien Gap -— the rainforest in Darien is impenetrable. Travel to Darien is not recommended, but if you insist, book an experienced guide.

How Do I Get There and Around?

As in every Central American country , local buses — often garishly painted American school buses — are the least expensive mode of transport in Panama. Destinations like Colón, Panama City, and David are also served by larger and more comfortable express buses. Outside more populated areas, paved roads can be rare. In those cases (like venturing to Bocas del Toro, for example), booking a seat on a small aircraft is the preferable option.

To travel to Costa Rica in the northwest, you can either book a plane from Panama City or an air-conditioned Ticabus .

How Much Will I Pay?

Partially because of its use of the United States dollar, Panama is one of the most expensive Central America countries to visit. While rooms usually start at $12-$15 USD a person, travelers can reduce costs by taking advantage of local cafes, markets, and transportation. More affluent travelers will find a pleasing selection of plush resorts, especially among Panama’s islands.

When Should I Go?

Panama’s rainy season usually between June and November, with rainfall much higher on the Pacific side of the country.

In Panama, Holy Week (the week of Easter) is similar to Semana Santa in Guatemala , with colorful religious processions and festivities. In February or March, Panama celebrates Carnaval, a boisterous nationwide fiesta most notable for its lively water fights. Visit Kuna Yala in February to see the grand Independence Day celebration of the indigenous Kuna people. Book a room early during any holiday, and be prepared to pay extra.​

How Safe Will I Be?

In the larger cities of Panama, such as Panama City and Colon, extreme caution should be taken at night. Passports must be worn on your person at all times—carry it, along with important documents and large sums of money—in an underclothes money belt. Keep an eye out for helpful Tourist Police with white armbands.

In the thickly forested, far southeast region of Darien (which borders Colombia), guerillas and drug traffickers remain a real threat, and while this area is still visited by intrepid travelers, we don’t recommend travel there without an experienced guide.

While traveler’s diarrhea is the ailment you’ll most likely experience (and you can reduce your risk by drinking bottled water and peeling all fruit), vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever are recommended for all travelers to Panama. Make sure you take prophylaxis against mosquito-borne Malaria , especially in rural regions—see MD Travel Health for more specific information. Like Costa Rica, Panama is also a popular destination for “health tourism”, or traveling abroad for inexpensive medical services.

Edited by Marina K. Villatoro

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A land radiating with life, perfectly imperfect, and full of authenticity. Where Northern and Southern worlds connect, old and new worlds coexist, and cosmopolitan landscapes live in harmony with wild, untamed rainforests.

A country for those who seek beyond expectations, that dares you to see more. Taste more. Connect more. Feel more. A place for those who long more stimulation, connection and transformation. Panamá is not the destination, but the journey to discover more of what truly matters.

Make more lasting memories through an explosion of inspiration and purpose. And let the spirit of Panamá unlock a sense of belonging.

Panamá. Live for More.

Panamá's unique location provides the experience of a lifetime. We are gifted with having a wide range of rainforests, a desert, and breathtaking beaches on both coastlines, the Caribbean and the Pacific, all within driving distance of a cosmopolitan city. Ready to start exploring?

March to October

Best swell for surfing, june 3rd to 18th, corpus christi festival, june to november, best time for river rafting, march to august, tuna fishing season, birdwatching, hiking & waterfalls, visit indigenous communities, places to visit, panama city.

Panama City is much more than the country's capital. Here you can pedal in front of a skyline with some of the tallest skyscrapers in Latin America, enjoy the Pacific breeze as you ride along the Bay of Panama, walk among archaeological sites and trails, and see how colonial history and the night come alive in the same place. Panama City is a high-contrast destination where greenery, indigenous peoples and vibrant city life are waiting for you.

Bocas Del Toro

Bocas del Toro is one of the favorite destinations among Panamanians and visitors. Just a 45-minute flight from Panama City brings you to the north-westernmost province of the country. Immerse yourself in its cultures, cross forest-covered mountains, sail through mangroves, swim among reefs, surf the perfect wave and discover the good vibes of Bocas.

Boquete is a colorful, wooded valley surrounded by the mountains of Chiriquí, in northwestern Panamá. The valley of dreams? Maybe so. This is a recurring destination for those who dream of trails with waterfalls and exotic animals, climbing natural rock formations, tasting the best coffee and enjoying excellent seasonal meals. Discover this unique place where peace and adrenaline converge.

Tierras Altas

The Tierras Altas region is a quite different place from the rest of Panamá. It is a mountainous district located in the extreme west of the country, in the province of Chiriquí. Take in its peaks, forests, rivers, and set out on an adventure among agriculture and culinary activities it has in store for you. Can you fathom how it feels to see both oceans at the same time? Well, in Tierras Altas, you can!

Riviera Pacifica

The Riviera Pacifica extends along the Pan-American Highway, a 25 mile (40 km) stretch of road dotted with beaches and mountains. On your way out of Panama City, just 50 miles (80 km), on your left, you’ll see a number of beaches where you can enjoy the best plans in the Pacific. And on your right, mountainous areas await that are brimming with trails, waterfalls and adventures in a cooler climate. Which one sounds best to you?

Pedasí & Tonosí

The province of Los Santos, located in the south of Panamá, is the cradle of folklore. At the end, towards the Pacific, there are two unique points: Pedasi and Tonosi. Here you will enjoy natural beauties such as the migration of humpback whales from July to October. You can also visit Isla Iguana to dive over the oldest and largest coral reef in the Gulf of Panama and see many of the birds and iguanas that live there.

Pacific Coast of Veraguas

The province of Veraguas in central Panamá is an exciting destination full of epic adventures. Its Pacific coast is a true jewel where lovers of the sea and wildlife coexist to enjoy the beauties of the region.

In the province of Colón, facing the Caribbean Sea, you'll find Portobelo. Legend has it that Columbus named Portobelo as soon as he saw it. The color of its deep blue sea, the white of its beaches, along with the intense green of its forests and mangroves, deserve no other name: it is a beautiful port. Come and discover it for yourself!

Panama Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Panama travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Located in Central America, the country of Panama has grown into an exciting travel destination in recent years.

Offering both big-city glitz and rugged adventures, Panama is one of the most exciting Central American countries for travelers. There’s so much to explore in this jewel of Latin America.

To get a feel for both the history of Panama and its modern culture, head to Panama City.

This city has been dubbed the “Dubai of Latin America” for a reason:

The skyscrapers and beachside luxury hotels are reminiscent of the infamous Middle Eastern destination.

There’s also the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Panama Viejo, where you can explore the ruins of the first European settlement on the Pacific Ocean.

And don’t forget to check out the Panama Canal, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Panama is also a great destination for ecotourism with its many beautiful beaches, rainforests, and volcanoes. Here you can find unspoiled beaches like Santa Catalina and incredible hiking destinations like Boquete .

You’ll also definitely want to check out Bocas Town , a colorful beachside town that’s a whole world away.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Panama. If you’re traveling to Central America , you won’t want to miss this incredible destination!

Note: This ultimate guide to Panama travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this Panama travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Things To Do In Panama

Discover the best places to visit in Panama & the top experiences to have!

Hiking In Panama: The Best Trails In Boquete

How To Plan An Unforgettable Panama Itinerary (Experiences Included!)

Here Is What It’s Like To Live With An Indigenous Tribe In Panama

Panama Travel Advice

Use these Panama travel tips to plan the perfect trip!

Best Places To Stay In Bocas del Toro For Sustainable Travelers

Top Panama Tours

Explore Panama tourism & culture with a local through these recommended excursions:

• Taste of Panama City: Walking Tour with Food and Drinks in Casco Viejo
• Panama Canal Full Transit Tour from Panama City
• Embera Village Day Trip from Panama City
• Authentic Day Tour in Indigenous Guna Village in San Blas Islands from Panama City
• Hiking, Waterfall & Zipline Adventure in El Valle de Anton from Panama City (El Chorro Macho waterfall included!)

Renting A Car In Panama

Need a rental car for your Panama trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Panama Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in Panama!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Panama Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Panama tour. When visiting Panama — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Panama itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Panama Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Panama .

Q: What are some good tourist sites in Panama?

Panama’s top attraction is, of course, the famous Panama Canal. Located between Panama City and Colon, this modern engineering marvel connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.

It’s definitely worth taking some time to watch the ships pass through the canal if you’re visiting either city. Even if you’re not into engineering, you won’t want to miss this incredible sight.

If you’re a hiker or nature lover, you’ll definitely want to check out Boquete , a small village on Panama’s Pacific side. Boquete is truly home to some of the best hiking trails in the world !

Here, you can experience “The Land of Eternal Springtime,” where flowers are constantly in bloom and the temperatures stay around 70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

There are tons of trails in the area that will take you through rainforests and up close with volcanoes. You can also explore the area via zipline or raft!

And you’ll definitely want to get some beach time in while visiting Panama!

One place to do this is Bocas del Toro , a collection of islands off Panama’s northeastern coast. If just chilling on the beach sounds a little too boring, the islands are also perfect for diving, surfing, and so much more.

Q: Is Panama dangerous for tourists?

While there are risks involved in any trip to Panama, it’s very possible to safely travel through the country.

Crime rates are very high in Panama, particularly in cities like Panama City and Colon. Both violent crime and theft are common, so always be aware of your surroundings and avoid going out alone at night in these areas. Keep any valuables close and hidden away, particularly in markets.

Also, be sure to only use licensed taxis throughout the country.

Drug trafficking is common in Panama and local authorities take this issue very seriously. You can get arrested for having even a small amount of drugs on you or for traveling with someone in possession of drugs. Keep this in mind as you travel throughout the country.

Also, avoid the Darien Gap area near the Panamanian-Colombian border, the epicenter of the drug trafficking business in Panama. The amount of criminal activity in the area makes it incredibly dangerous, particularly for travelers.

Q: What do I need to know before traveling to Panama?

While not required, travelers visiting Colon and areas east of the Panama Canal may want to get a Yellow Fever vaccine, as the disease is prevalent in these areas.

If you’re traveling from, or recently traveled to, a country with a high prevalence of Yellow Fever, you may need to provide proof of vaccination before entering the country.

Typhoid vaccines are also recommended if you are visiting smaller cities and more rural areas. Check with your country’s health department for full vaccine recommendations.

While Panama is fairly inexpensive for travelers compared to other parts of the world, it is one of the more expensive countries in Central and South America. You’ll be able to get some great deals while you’re in the country, but you may need to budget a bit more than you would for, say, Honduras , Guatemala , or Nicaragua .

English is also not widely spoken in Panama, so it’s a good idea to learn a few Spanish words and phrases before you go in order to communicate with the locals. Luckily, Spanish is typically one of the easiest languages to learn for English speakers .

Q: Is it safe to travel in Panama City?

Panama City has grown into a bustling metropolis and is generally pretty safe for travelers. That said, crime rates are still high in the city, so it’s important to keep your guard up and any valuables out of sight to avoid pickpockets .

The parts of the city that are most popular with tourists are also popular with pickpockets, so use common sense and stay vigilant when out sightseeing.

Finaly, try to avoid neighborhoods that are known to be dangerous, like El Chorillo, Santa Ana, and San Miguel.

Q: Do I need a Panama travel visa?

Citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Panama for less than six months. Citizens of other countries may require a visa to enter the country, but visa waivers are available in some cases.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Panama International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of Panama.

Q: How many days should I spend in Panama City?

There are so many things to do in Panama , especially in Panama City. At the very least, you’ll want to allow three days to visit the Panama Canal (including the Miraflores Visitor Center), wander Casco Viejo, explore the ruins of Panamá Viejo (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), enjoy nature through Metropolitan Natural Park and Ancon Hill, and wander the various neighborhoods.

Remember, too, that there are numerous day trips and weekend trips to enjoy from Panama City, like the San Blas Islands, Monkey Island, Chagres National Park, the Pearl Islands, and Taboga Island.

You’ll really want to allot extra time for these local getaways.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Panama?

Major credit cards are accepted around Panama — particularly Visa and MasterCard — though it’s recommended to carry cash for smaller establishments.

Additionally, you’ll want cash when visiting remote parts of the country.

Q: What is the best time to visit Panama?

While Panama is a year-round destination, most tourists like to avoid the rainy season and instead visit during the dry season between January and mid-April.

Q: What months are summer in Panama?

Summer in Panama runs from about December to April.

Q: Can you drink tap water in Panama?

You can drink tap water in many places in Panama, though not Bocas del Toro or the Comarca de Guna Yala.

On my trip, I drank the tap water in Boquete, El Valle de Anton , and Panama City and thought it was very tasty.

Q: What is the hottest month in Panama?

The warmest month in Panama is typically April.

Q: What is the local currency in Panama?

The local currency in Panama is the Panamanian balboa.

What would you add to this Panama travel guide?

Pin for later: Panama Travel Guide

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Things To Do In Panama: A Complete 10 Day Panama Vacation Itinerary

last Updated: December 17, 2023 bocas del toro boquete panama panama city san blas islands

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

→ Planning a trip to Central America and looking for the ultimate Panama vacation itinerary? Look no further; I’m sharing our favorite things to do in Panama (we just got back!), including our exact 10 day itinerary, when to go, where to stay, how to maximize your time on your Panama trip, and oh so much more!

Panama is a tropical destination that has a little bit of everything – stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, laid-back surf towns, misty mountains, and vibrant cafes. There’s cultural diversity, cloud forests, and colonial charm. Wondering what to do in Panama? I’ve got you covered, don’tchu worry, my friend! <3

I was determined to somehow get all of this onto my recent Panama vacation itinerary, and was thankfully able to figure it all out! And now I’m sharing my list of things to do in Panama with all of you, including my exact Panama itinerary that we pretty much followed to a T.

I have to admit that figuring out this itinerary was kinda tricky. Yes, we followed the typical tourist route – Panama City (with a side trip to San Blas ) → Boquete → Bocas del Toro , but with only 10 days in the country, squeezing everything in proved rather difficult.

At first I wished we had a few more days, but after seeing the trip come to life (aka doing it all), I’m not so sure extra time was in fact necessary. I think we would have liked an extra half day or so in Boquete, but I just couldn’t make it work.

Do note that this Panama vacation itinerary is pretty jam packed; if you’re looking for a more relaxed trip, it’d be wise to tack on at least another 2 days or so. That being said, I carefully researched the most efficient transport options in order to fully maximize our time in the country, and it all worked out pretty swiftly.

MAIN REGIONS VISITED ON THIS ITINERARY:

• Panama City
• San Blas Islands
• Bocas del Toro

Pre-Travel Guide to 10 Days in Panama

Where is panama you ask.

The country is located in Central America sharing borders with Costa Rica to the north and Columbia to the south. It’s actually the connection of land that links Central and South America (hence, the Panama Canal)!

This itinerary starts in Panama City (which is where most international travelers arrive in the country), heads up northeast to the San Blas Islands , due west to Boquete, and then finally up north to Bocas del Toro .

We chose to fly from region to region when we could, as this saved us lots of time considering our Panama vacation was only 10 short days. The country is large but not too large, making it possible to visit three (if not four) areas when planning out your Panama itinerary.

There are a whole myriad of things to do in Panama, so carefully planning out your trip is so very important if you don’t have tons of extra time for mistakes and possible transportation mishaps (more on this below).

WHEN TO VISIT PANAMA:

Before planning a trip to Panama, it’s important to understand its weather patterns. BUT first things first – humidity is always high (hey, it’s a tropical country!), so be prepared for frizzy hair and sticky skin throughout your trip.

Panama experiences two distinct seasons, the dry season (mid-December to mid-April) and the rainy season (May to November). If you’re looking for comfortable temperatures and little to no rain, I highly suggest you visit during the dry season, which is actually Panama’s summer.

However, thankfully, temperatures remain pretty consistent throughout the year, at an average of 86 F/30 C.

But of course it’s not that easy, as different regions around the country experience different climates, temperatures, and specific rainfall patterns.

Caribbean destinations, like Bocas del Toro, have a shorter dry season, occuring in September/October and February/March, although rainfall can happen any day. Unusually heavy rains are common in Bocas in December, so it’s best to avoid that month.

Boquete experiences high winds and some misting (called bajareque) from mid-December to mid-February, while January see’s the occasional thunderstorm. Looking for some sun? Head to Boquete between March and May.

San Blas is a whole different story, which we’ll get into down below.

Don’t fret if your Panama vacation plans don’t fall within the country’s dry season – the early months of rainy season (April to July) only receive short bursts of sudden thunderstorms in the afternoon, with plenty of sunny mornings or afternoons. I’d try to avoid August through November if you don’t want rain to possibly take over your trip.

HEALTH AND SAFETY:

A few notes on health-related things:

• I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the tap water in many parts of Panama is potable, as many visitors don’t expect this! However, do note that you cannot drink the water in Bocas del Toro or on San Blas → stick to bottled.
• I was also thrilled to learn that there are no required vaccinations to enter the country. With so much lush jungle, I was shocked by this! However, always consult your doctor, as yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, and hep A and B vaccinations are recommended.
• You’ll want to take along a decent amount of sunscreen with you, as the sun is extra brutal over in these parts.
• On the last day of our trip I felt a little dizzy and wasn’t feeling my best – pretty sure I was wildly dehydrated and the intense heat and humidity wasn’t helping. Make sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty and plenty of water!

And now some safety info:

• For the most part, Panama is a relatively safe country. We felt safe during our entire Panama vacation, and didn’t worry about pickpocketing or other petty crime. That being said, there are a few areas in Panama City that are a bit seedier than the rest.
• This Panama itinerary doesn’t visit the city of Colon, but if you diverge from my recommended plans and end up there, know that the city has a high rate of street crime. Stay alert.
• There have been cases of drug trafficking on boats traveling from Colombia to Panama → just FYI and something to keep in mind if you’ll be on the water near the border.

Psst: it’s a good idea to get travel insurance no matter where you go. I recommend and personally use SafetyWing (the best insurance out there because they include pandemic coverage). They’re reliable, cost-efficient, and cover a wide array of potential travel problems, not only health-related. Check them out and get a free quote over here.

No visa is required for U.S. citizens traveling to Panama as long as a valid tourist passport and proof of onward travel is in possession, and you’re traveling to the country for 180 days or less.

HOW TO GET TO PANAMA:

Most international flights arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City, with many direct nonstop flights leaving from a wide array of large cities in the states.  

Our flight was originally scheduled as a direct flight from San Francisco to Panama City, but we got rerouted to Las Vegas at the last minute due to the groundings of the 737 MAX’s (better safe than sorry, though!)

I like using Skyscanner and Google Flights to check for prices, and most commonly find the cheapest flights on one of these. We flew economy class from SFO to Panama City for approximately $650 round trip per person, which we thought was a pretty good deal considering our dates were not particularly flexible.

→ It’s important to be very careful when booking your flights to Panama City, as there is also an airport in Florida with the same name! For this Panama vacation, you’ll want to head to the Tocumen International Airport, code PTY. And if you end up in Florida, don’t blame me! :p

Where to Stay in Panama :

• Panama City : American Trade Hotel (we LOVED) -or- Hotel Casa Panama (also great!)
• San Blas : we opted for a private thatched hut on Isla Diablo (lots more info here )
• Boquete : The Haven and Spa (Adult’s Only)
• Bocas del Toro : Azul Paradise Bocas Town

(more info on each one throughout itinerary below)

HOW TO GET AROUND:

You’ll be taking a myriad of public and private transportation during your Panama vacation! There was definitely a lot of moving around throughout the 10 days, and as noted was kinda difficult to figure out the logistics of this trip, but we made it work! And lucky you, I did all the hard work for you!

We found Uber to work in Panama City, and rates were typically much cheaper than taxis.

→ Don’t have Uber yet? It’s super easy to use! Sign up here and use code jessicak148 for $$ off your first few rides!

Here’s a quick synopsis of our travels throughout Panama:

• flight from SFO to Panama City (Uber around Panama City )
• shuttle bus and speedboat to San Blas Islands
• return to Panama City via speedboat and shuttle bus
• flight from Panama City to David → taxi to Boquete → taxi around Boquete
• shared van and shuttle boat to Bocas del Toro → taxi and boat around Bocas del Toro → walk to airport (for real)
• flight back to Panama City → flight back HOME.

Phew, told you we were moving!

You’ll want to book your inter-country flights as soon as possible, as there aren’t tons of flights per day and I’ve heard the prices jump exponentially the closer the dates get. We paid approximately $100 each per person per flight within Panama (all one-ways).

If you follow this Panama trip, you’ll need a flight from Panama City to David (for Boquete) and then Bocas del Toro to Panama City.

Do note that the airport in Bocas is prettyyy much the smallest one I’ve seen to date, with one waiting room, one “gate”, and 1-2 bag scanners. That’s pretty much it. Don’t expect to be able to grab food here, that’s for sure.

WHAT TO PACK FOR PANAMA

Panama is a country of all climates: dense, misty jungles, stunning sunny islands, and humid cosmopolitan cities.  Within this itinerary, we’ll be doing tons and tons of exploring, so you’ll want to make sure you’re completely prepared for those 10 days. Don’t worry, I gotchu.

• Because of its hot, sticky climate, you’ll want light, airy clothing.
• Comfy footwear- you’ll be walking ALOT!
• Sandals/bathing suits for the islands
• MORE DETAILED LIST COMING SOON!

Currency in Panama

Those coming from the USA will be pleased to know that Panama uses the same currency as the States, so there’s no need to worry about an exchange rate or getting foreign bills! It’s important to note that you’ll undoubtedly come across some Panamanian coins, called Balboa, used around town and on the islands in the form of coins.

With that being said, the US dollar is accepted everywhere and you don’t need to worry about exchanging dollars for balboa. Just be sure to use up any balboa you receive (when receiving change) as you obviously can’t use them in the States!

Communicating in Panama

The official language of Panama is Spanish, although quite a few Panamanians know basic English as well. We had no trouble communicating with hotel staff, taxi drivers, and/or restaurant staff, either using our limited Spanish or since they knew English. There’s also quite a few expats as well.

We had the most difficulty in the San Blas Islands, and wish we had brushed up on our Spanish a bit more before visiting (many of the locals speak their native language and Spanish, but very minimal English).

And now, what you’ve been waiting for, my complete 10 day Panama vacation itinerary!

Things to do in Panama: My Ultimate Panama Vacation Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in panama city and explore.

Fly into Panama City! You’ll find most international flights to Panama will fly into Panama City, which is perfect as it’s the first stop on our Panama itinerary!

The flight isn’t as long as I had originally thought – just over 7 hours from San Francisco (which is just over my usual flight time between SFO from JFK where I frequent for long weekends).

We chose to take a red-eye flight (so, the night before) in order to arrive in Panama City mid-morning (we landed around 10:30am, FYI), allowing us ample time to explore the city our first day.

If you’re tight on time like we were, I highly recommend you take advantage of flying the night beforehand and arriving into Panama City in the early morning.

Check into your hotel, drop your bags if ya room ain’t ready yet, then we’re directly off to lunch in Casco Viejo! There’s a whole slew of restaurant options, but we loved both the ambiance and food at Tantalo Hotel and Kitchen. The rooftop terrace was divine, and that watermelon juice was the perfect way to start our oh so lovely Panama vacation.

Panama Canal | Miraflores Locks

We’re getting right to it on the first day (don’t wanna waste any time), so the Panama Canal it is!

Ahh, the connection between the Atlantic and the Pacific – how could you miss this super popular attraction in Panama City? Ya can’t! We took an Uber from Casco Viejo to Miraflores Locks for about $15 (something like that?), which took roughly 35 minutes or so.

Out of all the things to do in Panama, the Panama Canal is at the top of everyone’s list, and for good reason. It’s utterly fascinating.

Upon arrival, you can opt to pay for a $20 ticket to all the attractions at Miraflores Locks (the museum, exhibition halls, short films, highest viewing platforms, etc), but if you’re fine with reading about the canal yourself, head up to the restaurant and watch the ships pass through for the price of a beer.

We enjoyed a few drinks while basically getting the same view as everyone who bought a ticket (woop woop). And since we didn’t have much prior knowledge on the whole Panama Canal system, we googled some fun facts and read them over a few beers.

Things to know before visiting:

• Miraflores is just one of three sets of locks in the Panama Canal, and it’s the most popular one to visit (due to its close proximity to Panama City).
• The ships don’t pass through every minute of every hour. You’ll be able to watch the ships between 9am-11am, and then again from 3pm-5pm(ish). If you’re here at a different timeframe, you’ll have to wait! We arrived at the canal around 2:45pm after getting lunch, and only waited a few minutes for the first boat to start making its way through the Miraflores section of the canal.

• Oh and trust me, you won’t want to stay the entire 2 hours or so, as the ships pass by super slowly and it takes quiiteeee a long time to set everything up. We watched 2-3 ships pass then had enough. Do keep your eyes peeled on the locks and water levels prior to a ship passing through – it’s wild!

Afternoon Stroll on the Cinta Costera

Once you’ve had enough of the Panama Canal, make your way to the Cinta Costera. We had planned to visit around sunset, but arrived early due to how quickly we got over the canal – it’s intriguing the first 2 times a ship passes through, but then kinda monotonous going forward (you’ll see). And it literally takes foreverrrr (10 hours for a ship to fully pass through the canal).

The Cinta Costera is essentially a pedestrians walkway and complex park next to the water. We enjoyed strolling around for about an hour or so, picking up some raspados from a street vendor (kinda like the Panamanian version of a shave ice) to cool off.

Walk far enough and you’ll find the iconic Panama sign – a giant colorful piece of artwork (which we unfortunately missed). If you finish early like we did, don’t fret – just watch the sunset from the next spot!

Sunset drinks at Finca del Mar

Cocktails and ceviche with a view of the sun setting on the water with a gentle ocean breeze? Sounds like the perfect way to finish off the day, am I right? The atmosphere here is very fun, with outdoor seating, string lights, and colorful seating (including a few swinging chairs at the bar). Tuna ceviche was very tasty, as were the mojitos we ordered.

If you’re still hungry → consider Cafe Coca Cola for a fast and simple dinner

This unassuming restaurant is actually the oldest cafe in Panama City! I heard that the Coca-Cola brand let the restaurant keep its name due to how long they’ve been in business! While the ambiance was nothing to write home about and the food was decent at best, it’s a quick and easy spot if you’re exhausted (like we were).

Where we stayed: Hotel Casa Panama → we loved the trendy and open-air leafy vibe of the hotel. The room was basic with funky decor touches, and the shower was heaven on earth! Located right in Casco Viejo, which is a great location to base yourself in while in Panama City!

There’s also a rooftop plunge pool if you find yourself with some time to enjoy it! It’s known to get kinda noisy on weekend nights since there’s a bar on the roof, so just keep that in mind! We slept like babies though!

Day 2: Off to the San Blas Islands!

Hopefully you went to bed early last night, because you’re getting picked up bright and early this morning! 5:30am to be exact. 🙂 Alllll your tropical island dreams, coming right up (you can sleep on the bus, I promise, although the last hour is kinda bumpy)!

Note : You’ll want to have your hotel in Panama City hold your luggage – you only need to pack a small bag for your few nights in San Blas. Suitcases are unheard of on the islands, and you’ll be getting to your final destination via tiny speed boat, so leave that large luggage behind.

We packed a few bathing suits, shorts, and tank tops, and that’s all we really needed besides basic toiletries. Ladies – leave your makeup and beauty bag behind (I couldn’t even find a mirror on the island and there’s no place to plug in items for doing your hair)! DO take lots of SPF though!

Yes, the San Blas Islands are kinda a pain to reach → you’ll need to take a 3 hour shuttle ride to the Kuna Yala port, then hop on a speed boat for 45 minutes or so to reach your island of accommodation. Worth the hassle? Easily. My advice- book a tour and everything will be taken care of for you.

P.S. → We booked with San Blas Dreams and had a lovely experience. We opted for the 2 night, 3 day experience, as you can choose to spend only 1 night on the island, or even do a day trip to San Blas (although I recommend staying over at LEAST 1 night). Alternatively, if you don’t wanna stay on the islands for 2 nights like we did ( read my FULL recap over here ), you can spend the extra time in the rainforest in Boquete.

→ Read next: everything you need to know about visiting the san blas islands

We reached our island of accommodation around 10ish or so, and had the option of lazying around or going straight out on a tour. We opted to stay put and soak up the sun, swing in the hammocks, read our books in the sand, and just enjoy each other’s company with zero distractions that first day. Oh, and get a few coconuts – the freshest water you can get!

A few things to note about the San Blas islands:

There’s really no best time of year to visit the San Blas Islands , but the Kuna’s (the indigenous people on the island) informed me that the least rainfall occurs in January, February, and March. Rainy season begins in April, comes out in full force in May, and basically lasts until the end of the year.

However , if you’re planning on heading to San Blas in the rainy season, don’t fret – you’ll still find beachdays with hours of sun even when the clouds aren’t cooperating. The weather can be tricky and unpredictable, so just hope for the best!

Accommodations are basic at best , with super simple thatched huts with literally only a bed in a single room. You won’t find any pools, sun loungers, or anything remotely luxurious on the islands (not even hot water or the amount of electricity you’re used to).

It’s very possible you’ll be sharing bathrooms with other guests (our island had one set of shower stalls and toilets for everyone), will have to charge your devices at the few outlets at the restaurant, and will eat the same meal time and time again.

You will, however, find untouched beauty, starfish in their natural habitat, tons of healthy fresh fish and coconuts, and luminous turquoise waters.

The islands are not a culinary experience ; you’ll have minimal meal variations and given a choice of fish fillet (my meal of choice), fried/grilled fish, mixed seafood, prawns (when available), and chicken (on occasion). The food wasn’t half bad, we just ate mostly the same thing for 3 days.

The Kuna’s and San Blas in general are a cash society . Plan to take some small bills with you to buy coconuts and beers, and purchase any handicrafts you may wish, as well as to supply a ~$23 Kuna tax and port fee.

Read my very thorough post about our experience in the San Blas islands to help decide if you want to add a few days on the islands to your Panama vacation.

In my opinion though, no trip is complete without visiting these glistening palm tree ridden islands (just suck it up and rough it for a few days, you got this!. Make some room in your itinerary and you’ll come home with glistening golden skin and feel relaxed as ever.

Where we slept : Beach bungalow in San Blas! Be sure to go for a night walk and look up – the stars are so bright over here!

Day 3: Get some Sun on San Blas

After a hectic first few days on this Panama vacation, it’s finally time to just relax and soak up some sun. Hopefully you slept ok, as I woke up hot and sticky each morning (allll the more reason to jump in the sea, right?)

Here’s a typical day-in-the-life on San Blas, and what you can expect during your time here:

• 7:30ish: Wake up to the birds happily chirping (your ears off)
• 8:15ish: Hot Breakfast
• 9-10: Lounge on beach, read, free time
• 10:15ish: Island hop (tour of the day)
• 1:00: Lunch back on your “home” island
• 2-7: Free time/showers (snorkel, nap in hammocks, read, swim, laze around)
• Night: beers and card games, stargazing and short beach walks

Those San Blas tours we took each day for a few hours took us to nearby islands, natural swimming pools (previously sunken islands), and sand bars, where we wandered around the islands taking photos, going for swims, snorkeling, and hanging with other people from our boat.

The Kuna’s provided rum and cokes for us to enjoy, and we even saw a bunch of exceptionally large orange starfish in the shallow waters!

I talked about this in my big San Blas blog post , but I think it’s important to mention again. Starfish are living creatures, you guys. They need to be kept in water – do not lift them out! They are extremely sensitive and should be handled with care, for the least amount of time possible.

Our Kuna guides said we could lift them up for a quick photo (still halfway submerged in water), then place them right back. Don’t go moving them all around for your perfect IG shot, just don’t do it. They’re so delicate – we want to keep these little sea beauties alive!

Where we slept : Beach bungalow in San Blas!

Day 4: San Blas in Morning/Afternoon, then back to Panama City

Last Morning in Paradise

Another day in paradise it is! Well, most of the day at least! Depending on what tour company you book with, and which package you choose, you’ll either leave San Blas at 9am or 3pm. We chose the latter, and enjoyed exploring other islands before leaving our new favorite place.

If you think you’ll want to explore a bit more of Panama City (we’ll have another ¾ of a day before leaving the country later on in this itinerary), you may want to choose the earlier San Blas departure. The beach is sooo our thing, so we opted to stay as long as possible without staying another night.

Make sure to drink alll the coconuts, revel in the warm, luminous waters one last time, and take your last nap under the palm trees!

It was a breath of fresh air to have limited amenities and zero wifi availability. After 3 days in San Blas we were oh so relaxed, although any longer and I think I’d have been longing for a hot shower more so than actually enjoying the picturesque beaches.

Back to Panama City and Dinner at Ocho y Medio

Say goodbye to San Blas, because it’s back to Panama City we go! And yes, you’ll have to head back the same way you came → a 45 minute speed boat ride back to the port, then ~2hr, 30 min van ride back. If I remember correctly, we got back to Panama City around 6:30pm or so, then headed out to dinner at Ocho y Medio before picking up our suitcases at our first hotel, Hotel Casa Panama.

→ We booked a super early morning flight to David in order to have as much time as humanly possible in Boquete, so we chose to stay close to the airport at the Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel , which is roughly a 5 minute drive to the airport.

We’re definitely not morning people, and when there’s a sliiiiight chance we may oversleep, we like to stay as close to the airport as humanly possible, while still having a comfy bed.

Where we slept: Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel (highly recommended)

Day 5: Coffee Tasting in Boquete

First things first, get yourself to Boquete

Okay, so in order to get to Boquete at a normal hour, you’ll need to take an early morning flight to David. Our flight left Panama City at 7:30am, arrived in David around 8:50am, then we took a 45 minute taxi straight to Boquete for $35 (standard price). There are no ubers in David or Boquete, so you’ll need to find other ways to get around (hence the taxi).

Note that you can also take a bus to Boquete from the David airport, but you’ll need to get yourself to the bus station first (for only a few bucks or so). If we weren’t so exhausted I think we would have attempted to take the bus as it would have been the much more cost-effective option, but oh well, we were tired!

And not to stress you out, but be sure to book early as there’s only a few fights to David per day. We booked on COPA airlines and noticed there were only two flights a day from Panama City to David, at 7:30am and 4:30pm. I’m pretty sure Air Panama has flights as well, but no more than 2-3 either (7ish, 11ish, and later on in the day).

If you want to follow this Panama vacation itinerary exactly as I have laid out, you’ll NEED to get yourself on an early morning flight. If you have an extra day or two, getting into Boquete later on in the day will be fine, but we didn’t have this luxury.

Morning Stroll through Boquete Town

As soon as we checked into our hotel (yay for early check-ins), we dropped our bags then set out for town. Honestly, we were kinda surprised at how dirty and downright sad the town looked from an outsiders point of view (I didn’t even take one photo – there wasn’t anything really to photograph). I wondered out of all the things to do in Panama if I had made a bad choice by coming here, but nope, I’ll explain below!

It’s a pretty small town and I have to admit, the walk from The Haven (our hotel) to town was much, much nicer than the actual town itself. There was tons of construction going on, a mildly run-down main street, and a few unattractive shops.

BUT, let’s not dwell on the negatives, because there are SO many positives to this luscious green area that makes Boquete so appealing. (Plus – we learned that there’s even a large expat community here, so Boquete must be more than it’s tiny unassuming little town).

So, what is Boquete known for? First of all, after one look around, it’s evident all the lushness surrounding the town more than makes up for the complete lack of charm within the town itself. With its towering mountain views, blankets of flowers, and oh so much greenery, you’d be hard pressed to find a more stunning natural scenery in the mountains.

Venture outta town and you’ll find pristine waterfalls, an ancient volcano, and treetops full of birds! If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot the stunning Volcan Baru through the misty clouds.

Boquete is located on the Caldera River, within the Chiriqui Highlands, which is home to coffee plantation after coffee plantation, and is known as more of an adventurous mountain village for those wanting to take part.  

If you have an extra day or so, you can climb Volcan Baru, go ziplining, go on epic waterfall hikes in the jungle, go rafting, and partake in a chocolate making class (among other things).

It’s high elevation in the mountains provides a cool, enjoyable climate, so you’ll want to dress a tad warmer during your day in Boquete. We thankfully were blessed with an absolutely beautiful day in the mountains, only needing a light jacket at times.

In town we had some brunch at Sugar and Spice (the most popular breakfast spot in Boquete which we LOVED) and tried the famous gesha coffee at La Viuda del Cafe (The Coffee Widow)!

The coffee, originating from a village in Ethiopia, is said to be the most expensive cup on Earth. It commonly sells for about $9 a cup, but would found it (albeit a very small cup) at The Coffee Widow for about $5. A bargain if you ask me!

We actually saw it selling for $9 a cup in Panama City later on in the week. It’s said to be smooth, fruity, silky, and aromatic, tasting a bit more like tea than coffee, and we enjoyed our few sips.

We attempted to go to Fresas Mary for some famous Boquete strawberries and whipped cream, but they were unexpectedly closed (what a bummer – we even took a taxi there!) Hopefully they’re open when you go!

The walk back to our hotel was exceptionally scenic, as we found ourselves high above the town taking in all the lush greens and fuscia-colored flowers.

Afternoon Coffee Plantation Tour

Boquete is widely known for their mass coffee production, and boasts some of the best and most expensive coffee in the world. Yup, the world!

There are plenty of coffee plantation tours to choose from, but after doing a bit of research, Finca dos Jefes sounded like the best one! And I have to admit, I think we chose correctly. The story of the farm is just so moving and inspiring!

We walked through the fields, learned about coffee cherries and traditional organic farming, were given a brief education of the coffee industry (oh, it’s so fascinating you’ll see), and learned how to properly roast coffee beans. And of course we tasted a whole bunch of freshly brewed coffee (both a medium and dark roast blend)!

Unlike other coffee tours, there were only about 8 of us in total, so we felt like we were given a more personalized experience and had allll our crazy coffee questions answered.

I especially appreciated how the tour spoke a lot about economics; the realities of the global coffee economy and the impacts made on the farmers and workers were especially eye opening and really makes you think.

And plus, the dogs on site were the absolute cutest (we’re a suuuuucker for pups!) The farm was covered in plants, flowers, and hummingbirds, and I just couldn’t get enough. Towards the end of our tour a rainbow appeared above the fields, which made for such a beautiful end to the day. A well-spent $30 (each).

Note that there are two options for tours each day, at 9am and 2pm. We obviously chose the 2pm tour since we weren’t even in Boquete by 9am! The tour lasts for roughly 3 hours, so we got back to our hotel around 5ish or so.

Private pool time and some dinner

If you’re staying at The Haven and Spa , take advantage of the pool before dinner! You’ll have to make a reservation, but this just ensures you have the pool to yourself! We were bummed it wasn’t heated, so just enjoyed putting our tired feet in.

If you’re looking for a good dinner option, we thoroughly enjoyed our meal at Boquete Fish House – you can never go wrong with some fish and chips, yucca fries, and fresh fish sauteed in white wine lemon garlic butter. Oh, and their house margs were a-okay and only a few bucks.

Where we Stayed: The Haven , and it was just like I imagine heaven to be. As soon as we arrived, I was overly wowed – the grounds are so incredibly luscious and green, and the outdoor space was so inviting. I desperately wish we had another night here.

Note that the hotel is an adults-only resort, so if you’re traveling with kiddos, you’ll have to find another place to stay. We loved the indoor pool, and we even took advantage of the fully equipped gym and sauna/steam room. The included room-service breakfast was lovely, and we ate on our outdoor patio in the garden every chance we got!

Day 6: Arrive in Bocas del Toro

Today we’re making our way to Bocas del Toro , another one of Panama’s hot spots with a chill, surfer vibe and gorgeous islands off the coast, oh, and a jungle too! Bocas is kinda the best of both worlds, allllll rolled into one archipelago of beautiful islands.

Before we dive into the Panama vacation itinerary of the day, lemme explain the geographical makeup of Bocas del Toro for a hot second (as I was semi-confused when initially researching).

Bocas del Toro is made up of a few different islands, with Isla Colon being the most popular and consisting of Bocas Town, where the bulk of visitors decide to stay, and Starfish Beach (very popular spot as well). Next you’ve got Isla Solardo, which is only a few minutes off the coast of Isla Colon, and an island not many choose to visit.

Finally, there’s Bastimentos, which is the largest of the archipelago and where you’ll find Old Bank, Up in the Hill, Red Frog Beach (very popular), and other secluded resorts/hotels. We chose to base ourselves out of Bocas Town on Isla Colon, which I’ll explain in more detail below.

→  Read Next: A Comprehensive Guide to Bocas del Toro

Transfer to Bocas del Toro

It’s semi-complicated (yes, again) to get from Boquete to Bocas del Toro, as you’ll need to take a 3.5 hour shuttle to Almirante (a port town), then a 30 minute marine taxi (which was essentially a speed boat) from there to Bocas Town. Thankfully, there are organized transportation services that will take care of everything for you.

We booked with Hello Travel Panama through Mamallena Hostel, left Boquete around 9am, and arrived in Bocas del Toro around 1:30pm or so. Make sure to schedule this transfer in advance as the shuttles get booked up beforehand.

With that being said, there’s absolutely no reason to attempt this transfer yourself, as prices weren’t half bad: $30 per person, including the boat transfer from Almirante. Our shuttle was comfortable, air-conditioned, spacious, and safe, with enough room for all luggages (on top of the shuttle actually).

Wander Bocas Town -or- head to Starfish Beach

Since we arrived in Bocas around 1:30pm, we had quite a bit of time to explore on the first day! And with so much going on this area, you’ll want to make sure to use your time wisely!

You’ve got a few different options for your first afternoon in Bocas del Toro:

• Wander around town; get some ceviche and cocktails (the lazy man’s choice)
• Head to Starfish Beach (the need-to-see-and-do-it-all choice)

Since we were feeling a bit sluggish (and hungry) after our transfer to Bocas, we kept things pretty casual by wandering around Bocas Town. We opted to miss out on Starfish Beach since I had read tons of negative reviews, with many even saying they hardly saw any starfish, or none at all.

And since we had suuuuch a wonderful experience seeing the starfish in San Blas, I felt okay missing out on Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro. Do your own research though, as the reviews are mixed at best.

However, if you think you’ll have FOMO (fear of missing out), getting to Starfish Beach on the outskirts of Isla Colon isn’t all that difficult from Bocas Town. You’ll need to take a 45 minute bus ride from the park in the middle of town to Drago, and then you can either take a quick water taxi to Starfish Beach or walk 20 minutes.

Where we Stayed : Azul Paradise Bocas Town (not to be confused with the location on Bastimentos). After doing tons of research (it’s what I do best!), we ultimately decided on Azul Paradise Bocas Town, as other hotels looked a bit run down and not in the best shape.

Bocas is kinda like a party town so be prepared for late night shenanigans and loud music, although we didn’t experience any of these things.

The hotel was modern, fresh, and in a wonderful location. We splurged and booked the King Luxury Suite, and it was roomy to say the least. With floor to ceiling windows with views of the sea, a soaking tub, and a superrr comfy bed, we couldn’t have picked a better spot.

→ There are two main options for accommodation in Bocas del Toro. You have the option of staying in Bocas Town (close to lots of bars and restaurants), or spending a few nights on Bastimentos, the island next door and much more secluded. Up to you, but we highly prefered being in the middle of everything and having dinner options (after basically eating the same thing for 3 days on San Blas).

After visited Bastimentos (later on in the itinerary), we quickly learned the sheer seclusion of the island just wasn’t for us. Up to you!

Day 7: The Ridiculously Gorgeous Zapatilla Islands

Intoxifying. Serene. Wild. Enchanting. There’s no words significant enough to describe the Zapatillas. It’s say to safe that I’m low-key obsessed with this place I had never previously heard of.

If there’s one stop you can’t miss while in Bocas, it’s the Zapatilla Islands, also known as Cayos Zapatilla. These two uninhabited islands are located east of Isla Bastimentos and are quite honestly, one of the most amazing places I’ve ever been (same level as Bora Bora I might add).

While many say that San Blas is way more beautiful than Bocas, I’d have to disagree, as long as you make your way to the Zapatillas. We booked a tour the day before with Hello Travel Panama on a whim, and I’m obviously more than glad we did.

All was (more than) fine in the end, as we not only got to visit Zapatilla Island, but also visited Sloth Island, went snorkeling and anfibia boarding, and had a fresh seafood lunch overlooking the sea.

1st Stop: Searching for Sloths at Sloth Island

We first visited the protected mangroves of Sloth Island to, well, you guessed it, look for some sloths! Despite how difficult they are to spot, we found a whole bunch! Our guides were experts at spotting them, and thankfully made sure everyone on the boat got a few glimpses! They’re kinda hard to see in the photos, but look for the hornet’s-nests-looking things! Makes me wanna go to Costa Rica (they’re known for them, right?)

2nd Stop: Snorkel and Anfibia Boarding

Next up, it was finalllyyy time to jump in the refreshing waters with some snorkel gear! We had about 45 minutes or so to snorkel, where I saw tons of colorful coral (many that I had never seen before!), schools of glistening silver fish, sea fans, parrotfish, and so much more. It’s hard to keep your eye on one thing when you’re underwater – they’re just so much to see and I get distracted quite easily.

The water was calm, clear, and sheltered from debris from land – we were out in the middle of the Caribbean Sea! I so wish I had brought my go-pro with me to photograph all the lovely underwater life.

Since we were already in the water, anfibia boarding it was! It’s kinda hard to explain what anfibia boarding actually is, so I’ll just leave you with this: it’s oh SO much fun. You’ll feel like you’re flying underwater. Move the board up and down and you’ll see what I mean.

3rd Stop: Seafood Lunch

A fresh seafood lunch over the water? Yes please! Plates start at $15 per plate, so thankfully we had brought exactly $31 with us…enough to cover two lunches and nothing else. Take a bit more cash if you want more lunch choices. Kinda expensive for what it is, but hey, they’ve got little to no competition out in the sea so they can charge as much as they want.

You can plan to pack your own lunch, but the food was surprisingly really tasty and a hot lunch after being in the water for a while was appreciated.

We had some time to explore the restaurant on stilts, and some people chose to snorkel around as there’s known to be starfish nearby.

4th and Final Stop: Zapatilla!

In my opinion, Zapatilla is by far the best beach in Bocas del Toro, and all of Panama I might add. Yes, we LOVED San Blas more than anything, but if you get a perfect day weather-wise on Zapatilla, you’ll see exactly what I mean. This serene island paradise is absolute heaven and then some. It’s actually where Survivor Panama was filmed!

Out of all the things to do in Panama on this itinerary, spending the day on Zapatilla was by far my favorite. <3

It was soooo nice to just relax on a (nearly) deserted island and soak up the sun for a few hours. Oh, and that crystal clear water didn’t hurt either – I spent a decent chunk of our time wading in the shallow waters offshore, just admiring that gorgeous turquoise Caribbean water.

Note that there are zero facilities on this stunning and untouched uninhabited island, but our tour company set up a gorgeous spread of tropical fruits for us to enjoy. The Zapatillas are actually part of the undeveloped national marine park, so you can expect to find lots of little fishies under the water, as well pay a $10 National Park entrance fee if you aren’t part of a tour.

Thankfully it was quite isolated when we were there so didn’t have to share the palm-tree lined beach/waters with too many others. There was tons of space to lay out our towels, and we chose a shady spot underneath a few palms.

With sooo many shades of turquoise and oh so many palm trees inland made for an absolutely wonderful day. It was almost unreal how perfect the day was. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!

Where we Stayed: Azul Paradise Bocas Town (not to be confused with the location on Bastimentos)

Where we ate dinner: Restaurante Azul (6 course tasting menu for $20 and very tasty!)

Day 8: Explore the Jungle and Beaches of Bastimentos

Ahh, back to the jungle it is! If you’re kinda sad you only had one day in Boquete, now’s the time to make up for it! We found Bastimentos SO incredibly different from Isla Colon and Bocas Town, so make sure you hit up this spot when you’re in the area as well! And despite their close proximity, they’re like different worlds!

Quick Note → Bastimentos is another island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, and is roughly a 10 minute boat ride from Isla Colon. If you’re staying in Bocas Town like we were and want to follow the days activities I planned out, you’ll have to first get yourself to Bastimentos Town.

You can do so by basically asking anyone on the street in Bocas for a water taxi ride (they’ll probably come right up to you and offer their services). We paid $5 each to get from Bocas Town to Old Bank, which was our first stop of the day.

Wander throughout the sleepy town of Old Bank

When we first stepped off the water taxi, we instantly knew that Bastimentos was much more rugged and real that Bocas Town. We explored Old Bank, an Afro-Caribbean community which is right off the dock from where our boat let us off. There’s not as much tourism in this area, and you’ll get to see first-hand how the people live.

We saw roosters, baby chicks, lots of laundry hanging to dry, and tons of colorful old wooden buildings amongst lush vegetation. Just follow along the main dirt path directly from the port, and you’ll come across all this and more. With flavors of the West Indies, and being the second largest town in the Bocas archipelago, don’t miss it!

(P.S. pop into any market and you’ll find cans of rum and coke – my husband loved that!)

Up in the Hill Organic Chocolate and Coffee Farm

And now the main reason we popped on over to Bastimentos for the day – to learn all about how chocolate is grown/processed! When I first heard about Up in the Hill, I knew we just had to include this on our longgg list of things to do in Panama. An organic chocolate and coffee farm with jungle tours – sign me up!

Up in the Hill is a fully sustainable farm, producing zero waste and using every last bit to better their efforts. There’s a tour through the family farm everyday at 11am, which we signed up for the night before.

But beware — Getting there is an activity in and of itself! Start making the short trek from Old Bank around 10:15ish, and keep going up, up, and up into the jungle and through the woods. They’ll be signs, don’tchu worry. The hike/walk wasn’t difficult per say, we were just super hot and sweaty from the intense humidity and heat.

Be sure to take ample amount of water, and forget about having a good hair day (I had just washed and blow dried my hair the night before – biiiiig mistake).

On the tour we saw poisonous red frogs (harmless to look at, but no touching allowed), huge spiders with insanely strong webs (you can touch these to see what I mean), parades of ants carrying leaves (just wow !), yellow tailed birds, and chocolate cocoa trees!

We learned the reasons why they’ve chosen to live off the land, how the plants work together to help the others grow, and how they go about creating and sustaining a permaculture organic farm. It’s all very fascinating stuff, and quite inspiring to say the least.

Our guide carried a machete with us throughout the jungle (don’t be alarmed), which he used to chop down plants and show us some of the fruits of his labor. At the end of the tour, we were served a delicious spread of jackfruit, plantains, banana with fresh cocoa, chocolate drinks with coconut milk, pumpkin soup, coconut brownies, and more, all made with fresh ingredients from the farm.

→ Practicalities : $25 per person; tour starts at 11am; we emailed the lady the night before to register for the tour; put on LOTS of bug spray beforehand if you don’t want to get eaten alive (I warned you)

Red Frog Beach

Beach time, finally! After making your way back down to Old Bank (it’s sooo much easier going down, trust me), take a water taxi straight to Red Frog Beach ($5 per person). We chose to get dropped off at Palmar Dock, and took a 15 minute walk to the beach through the “shortcut” for another $5 each.

It didn’t quite seem like a shortcut, but it is what it is!  On the nature walk to the beach we saw lots of monkeys playing in the jungle (ahhhh I was exceptionally excited about this) and passed a pond with caiman (in the alligator family) which royally freaked me the F out (we didn’t see any thankfully).

We unfortunately didn’t find Red Frog Beach to be anything that spectacular; considering we had already spent time at both San Blas and the Zapatillas, Red Frog was just so-so comparatively. Nevertheless, our veggie bowls and fresh fruit smoothies made for a fantastic lunch at Palmar Resort.

And after our tiring morning hiking in the jungle to Up in the Hill, laying out on the beach was an afternoon well spent. Oh, and seeing those monkeys out in the wild totally made the short trek to Red Frog Beach worth it.

You’ll have to cough up around $8 to get back to Bocas Town from Red Frog Beach.

Where we Stayed : Azul Paradise Bocas Town (not to be confused with the location on Bastimentos)

Where we ate dinner: El Ultimo Refugio

Day 9: Cocktails at Blue Coconut (or the “Floating Bar”)

Chill out for a while, then it’s off to the airport to head back to Panama City!

Cocktails and Tacos Over the Sea

On our last day in Bocas, we chose to take it easy and had a relaxing brunch at Francine’s, where we had the most delicious breakfast crepes and coffees. We wandered around town a bit more before we set off for the Floating Bar, which is essentially just that – a bar floating in the middle of the Caribbean sea!

We took a $5 water taxi here, and it only took a few minutes or so to reach the freestanding bar surrounded by water.

It was kinda dead when we went (probably because of the unfortunate foul weather), but I heard that there’s usually live music playing and people snorkeling around in the surrounding waters (to see the nearby starfish). Although we didn’t make use of all the amenities (hellooo pool floats), we still had a relaxing time. The fish and chicken tacos were bomb, don’t miss them!

Psst : you can also head to the famed Blue Coconut (closed on Fridays), which is a bit farther away but still the same vibe, so we ultimately decided on the Floating Bar because of the mix of clouds and rain.

Fly Back to Panama City in Late Afternoon

Our flight was at 6:10pm, so we had the better portion of the day to see the last of Bocas. If the weather had been more cooperative, I’m sure we would have appreciated this extra time in the area, but we were itching to get back to Panama City.

Up to you if you want to book an earlier flight or not. We flew into PAC (Albrook International) on Air Panama, but there are flights to PTY (Tocumen) as well.

Note that the airport in Bocas is supperrrr tiny and located directly in town! We even chose to walk from our hotel in town to the airport, it was that close! As noted earlier, there’s only one waiting room, one “gate”, and 1-2 bag scanners. Make sure you eat beforehand (or take along a few snacks) because there’s no restaurants over here!

Night in Panama City

We had our last official dinner in Panama at CasaCasco, which was quite delicious, although a bit pricey I might add! There’s also a night club at top, in case you’re feeling a bit frisky and wanna dance your heart out on your last night.

Where we stayed: The American Trade Hotel

The American Trade Hotel was quite possibly our favorite accommodation of our entire Panama vacation, and we wish we could have at least stayed another night. Located smack dab in the historic center of Panama City right in the heart of Casco Viejo, ATH   boasts lovely marbled tiled floors, tall ceilings with large windows (oh that natural light <3), and such charming architecture.

The old world charm of this place just makes it that much more appealing. And plus, it’s part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, so you know this place will not only have beautiful decor, but wonderful service as well. We were lucky to be given a room with a cute flower-filled balcony overlooking the square, which we enjoyed using both night and morning.

Day 10: Wander Casco Viejo and head home!

After a short sleep in, we hung by the pool for a bit then made our way downstairs to brunch at The American Trade Hotel. The decor is just lovely and the husband had to literally put my camera down for me. Even if you’re not spending the night at The American Trade Hotel , I highly encourage you to check out the restaurant for brunch/lunch, and grab some liquid fuel at the adjoining coffee shop (Unido Panama Coffee Roaster).

Stroll Around Casco Viejo

Out of all the things to do in Panama City, going for an aimless wander around Casco Viejo was by far my favorite! This historic district and UNESCO World Heritage Site wasn’t always what it is today, but has now revitalized into Panama City’s center of art and nightlife, with tons of hip cafes and restaurants.

Oh, and the colonial buildings are to die for. To. Die. For. The absolute cutest. It’s beyond instagrammable → trust me. You’ll find boutique hotels, rooftop bars, crumbling facades, and cobblestoned streets. Swoon.

Psst: you may hear this area being called Casco Antiguo or San Felipe – they’re all the same beautiful spot. 🙂

A few things not to miss out on your wander in Casco Viejo:

• Grab a quintessential Panamanian ice cone, known as a raspado to keep cool
• Check out La Michoacana and try out their condensed milk popsicles
• Enjoy fresh ceviche at the Fish Market
• Head to Weil Art for a traditional Panama Hat
• Lunch at Mahalo (loved this trendy spot)
• Admire the hand sewn molas (by the Kuna’s!) at Plaza de la Independencia

It’s important to note that Casco Viejo lies on the border with El Chorrillo, known to be a bit seedy and not highly recommended to walk around. I’m pretty sure we unknowingly ended up here, and it was quite obvious the distinction between the two areas. Note: after doing some research, I learned that El Chorrillo is one of the city’s most famous ghettos – whoops.

We were butt tired by this point, so just carelessly strolled around the city looking for buildings to admire and had some lunch.

If you want to eat all the things, I highly recommend booking a Panama City food walking tour , which will take you to the best restaurants in town to sample local coffee, chocolates, beer, cocktails and ceviche. You’ll also wander around Casco Viejo with a local guide who can explain the history of the area better than I ever could.

If you have additional time in Panama City (we would have loved another night at the American Trade Hotel and quite possibly another day or so to see the monkeys on Monkey Island ), be sure to check out these highly-rated activities:

Say Goodbye to Panama and Head Home

Be sure to book a flight later in the day or evening (our flight was at 6:30pm) so you can properly explore on your last day in Panama! It’d be an absolute shame to miss out on Casco Viejo – we loved it oh so much!

Phew! Hopefully that answers all your questions about things to do in Panama and how to carefully plan an itinerary for roughly 10 days! We were absolutely blown away by the country and can’t wait to return!

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February 24, 2023 at 5:45 pm

This is amazing!! Would you be willing to share the approximate amount your trip cost total without the flights from USA included? We are considering a trip to Panama!! So excited! But I would like to do the reservations myself as I also am a serial planner 🙂 Thank you!!

February 25, 2023 at 3:33 pm

Hi Tracy! Unfortunately I don’t have current prices, as I took this trip a few years ago! It really varies depending on your choice of hotels, where you eat, etc. I will say we found Panama to be a bit more expensive than other Central American countries, minus Costa Rica. Enjoy — it’s a fantastic country!

August 20, 2023 at 2:39 am

This is such a helpful guide! Can’t wait for my trip to Panama 🙂

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The Ultimate Panama Itinerary (7 Days in Panama or Longer)

The Central American country of Panama feels to me somewhat of a hidden gem. It’s often overlooked in favor of its bordering neighbors Costa Rica and Colombia, but Panama has everything you could want in a destination and quite literally offers “a little bit of everything.” In as little as one week in Panama, you can experience its bustling city life, remote tropical islands, breathtaking mountains and nature, great food, and a vibrant culture all whi le being very affordable to Western travelers. This perfect Panama itinerary combines all the major points of interest in just 7 days, taking you from the capital, Panama City, to the mountains of Boquete, and finishing off in the islands of Bocas del Toro. Find out why I believe Panama is one of the most underrated destinations in Central America in this comprehensive Panama travel guide.

Day 1 – 2: Panama City Itinerary

Begin your trip by flying into and spending the first two days in Panama City, Panama. Panama City is a large modern metropolis filled with futuristic skyscrapers, a historic core with colorful, Spanish colonial buildings, great restaurants, exciting nightlife, and friendly people. In these first 2 days, you’ll get to explore the best of the city and of course, visit the monumental Panama Canal.

How to See the Panama Canal

Visiting the Panama Canal should be one of the top priorities for your time in Panama City. The Panama Canal is a manmade waterway that connects the Atlantic with the Pacific Ocean and divides North and South America, giving ships the ability to cross oceans much more quickly and effectively. It is one of the most significant engineering advancements ever created. Successfully built by the US, the canal consists of artificial lakes, channels, and locks, and is fascinating to witness its technology. The ships usually take 15 minutes to go through the lock, and then 8 – 10 hours to travel the length of the canal.

The Miraflores Locks are the closest of the 3 locks to Panama City and can easily be reached by Uber for as little as five dollars (about 30 minutes from the city) or by public transportation. You can take a tour by boat through the Panama canal, or you can visit the Miraflores Locks by land, (which is what I did) through the Miraflores Visitor Center , which has observation decks and viewpoints, along with exhibitions and an IMAX film about the canal.

Entry to the visitor center to see the Panama Canal costs between $10 – $20 per ticket. A tour guide is usually not necessary as the visitor’s center is very informative, as is the Panama Canal Museum in the Casco Viejo neighborhood of Panama City. The best time to visit the Panama Canal is when there is the most transit, so try to plan to be there when the Canal is at its busiest, usually between 9:00 am to 11:00 am or between 2:00-4:00. Transit times vary daily, so make sure to check the transit schedule on the visitor’s center website to time your visit accordingly. For more precise times and types of vessels, you can also check the maritime transit schedule here .

Casco Viejo

The historic district of Casco Viejo, which is also known as Casco Antiguo (translating to Old Town/Quarter) is Panama’s hippest neighborhood and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage protected district. Filled with old colonial buildings updated with stylish and modern interiors, trendy rooftops, restaurants, bars, cafes, and other little gems, this is undoubtedly where you’ll want to spend a lot of your time. Casco Viejo is small and walkable, and many streets are cobblestone, so wear comfortable shoes!

An ideal day in Casco Viejo would go a little something like this:

• Start your morning with geisha coffee (the famous Panamanian coffee variety) at Cafe Unido , the best coffee chain in Panama. If it’s Sunday, make sure to indulge in the famous Sunday brunch next door at The Dining Room inside the American Trade Hotel. Not Sunday? No problem, Mahalo also offers a great breakfast every day of the week.
• After you’re fueled with breakfast and Panamanian coffee, head over to the Museo del Canal Interoceáno de Panamá , AKA the Panama Canal Museum and/or Museo de la Mola (MUMO) AKA the Mola Museum. Molas are the artwork made of stitched textiles by the indigenous people of Panama. You can find them sold all over Panama and make for lovely souvenirs. For either museums, be sure to make a reservation in advance.
• Next, head to Mercado de Mariscos for some fresh seafood for lunch or a snack. It is about a 10-minute walk just outside of Casco Viejo, or you can take an Uber or cab for a few bucks. This seafood market has dozens of outdoor stalls selling fresh ceviche and fried fish. The vendors each have staff members somewhat aggressively shoving menus at you as you walk by, but pay no mind and just keep walking. You’ll want to find the stall that has the most locals dining there (i.e. no Panama hats in sight!) as that will typically be the best ones. The stalls on either ends may look the busiest to you as they are the most easily accessed, but make sure you walk the full length from end to end before determining which stall looks the most happening.

• For a midday treat, stop and cool off with an afternoon popsicle made with fun flavors at Palettamerica .
• Spend the afternoon wandering through the shops and boutiques, making sure to stop at Victor’s Panama Hats to pick up a genuine Panama hat to buy as a souvenir or wear on your trip.
• In the early evening, head to the rooftop terrace at CasaCasco for sunset drinks and happy hour.
• After working up an appetite with some drinks, stay for dinner at one of CasaCasco’s 3 different restaurants, or choose one of the other great dining options in my restaurant section below.
• End the night with drinking, dancing, and bar hopping at the Casco Viejo bars and clubs. See my recommendations in the Panama City nightlife section.

Amador Causeway

Another popular activity in Panama City is Amador Causeway, a boardwalk with restaurants and attractions. Many people enjoy renting a bike or electric scooter to ride down the causeway, but you can also choose to just take a stroll. There are also several different activities and sites you can enjoy, which can be found here .

Day Trips from Panama City & Panama City, Panama Beaches

As far as top things to do in Panama City and other tourist attractions, there actually isn’t a whole lot to see within the city itself. That said, there are some popular attractions close by that you can enjoy for a few hours, a half-day trip, or full day. If you’ve already seen the Canal and spent time exploring Casco Viejo, and still have time permitting, you can choose any of the following activities for a full or half-day trip:

Monkey Island : Take a boat tour down the Panama Canal to visit different islands to get up close and personal with monkeys and other wildlife. If you’re lucky, the monkeys will jump right into your boat with you! (Make sure to book a morning tour as that is when the monkeys are most active.) Tour costs begin around $50/adult and goes up when combined with other sites to tour. Tour duration is typically around 2 – 4 hours.

Pearl Islands : If you’re craving beach time, the Pearl Islands are an archipelago off the Pacific Coast of Panama and offer white sand beaches, beautiful waters, and are great for snorkeling, scuba diving, or whale watching. To reach the Pearl Islands from Panama City, take the 1.5-hour ferry from Punta Pacífica or the Amador Causeway. The rate for round-trip ferry is around $100 per adult. You can also fly to the Pearl Islands or go on a guided tour. Duration: half to full-day trip.

Taboga Island : Taboga Island is one of the closest beach destinations to Panama City, and can be reached within 30 minutes by ferry and costs $24 per adult round trip.

Emberá Village Tours : Take a day trip to visit and immerse yourself in the culture of the indigenous tribes of Panama. Tours typically include a boat ride through the Gamboa rainforest to reach the village where you will spend the day with them learning about the culture and community. You’ll hear traditional music, learn about the shamans, medicinal plants, art, get to hike, and more. Includes lunch. Cost is around $100 – $200/adult. Duration is a full-day tour. This tour can also be combined with Monkey Island.

Restaurants in Panama City, Panama

Panama City offers a great variety of food thanks to the significant presence of immigrant communities such as Jewish, Chinese, and American. You’ll find stand-out restaurants from traditional Panamanian and Caribbean cuisines, to international fare such as Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean, Asian-fusion, and more. As a Jewish traveler, I was particularly excited by all the options for kosher dining, which can be hard to come by when traveling outside of the US.

While dining abroad, I like to chase an ultra foodie experience, leaning into the most gastronomic restaurants along with the authentic and ultra-local. In a metropolitan city like Panama, there are opportunities for both, however as we make our way to the more remote areas of Panama where there will be plenty of opportunities for more simple, local dining, so my priority in the city was towards the gastronomic, or elevated local cuisine (i.e. no Italian or Japanese food for me.) You may also notice that many of the best restaurants in Panama City are found in the neighborhood of Casco Viejo, which doesn’t come as a surprise to me!

Here are some of the top restaurants in Panama City:

Maito : Designated as one of the 50 best restaurants in Latin America. Maito is a stylish restaurant that serves Panamanian fusion with an international flair.

Mercado de Mariscos : A fresh and local seafood market with dozens of stalls specializing in ceviche and fried fish.

Fonda Lo Que Hay: A casual and affordable Casco Viejo neighborhood restaurant by Panama’s Top Chef winner serving Panamanian street food with local ingredients.

Tacos La Neta : An awesome rooftop taco spot on the terrace of the Selina Hotel in Casco Viejo.

Botanica : A super Instagrammable cafe and pizzeria with photo-worthy food.

Tantalo Kitchen : A trendy rooftop bar and restaurant located at the Tantalo Hotel in Casco Viejo.

Cafe Coca Cola : One of the oldest and most famous cafes in Panama serving cheap Panamanian diner food.

Aria : The best kosher meat restaurant in Panama City (in my opinion, aside from The Chief BBQ , which I also loved and was only available for delivery at the time I visited.) For dairy restaurants, (since kosher does not mix meat and dairy) Blame Kiki is so cute and Instagrammable, and Kava is highly loved as well. A full list of Kosher restaurants can be found here .

Cafe Unido : My favorite coffee chain in Panama.

Granclement : The best ice cream in the city with unique flavor combinations and all-natural ingredients.

Palettamerica : Popsicle spot with a plethora of fun flavors.

Panama City, Panama Nightlife

Most of the best nightlife in Panama can be found in either Casco Viejo or in El Cangrejo, I actually had the opportunity to celebrate the New Year in Panama, which was very exciting, and a great time spent on the rooftop at CasaCasco . There were fireworks everywhere in the city with lots of celebrations all over late into the early morning.

Here are some of the best places for a night out in Panama City: Salvaje : A luxe restaurant/bar that has one of the trendiest rooftops in Panama City

Tantalo : Another trendy rooftop bar at the Tantalo Hotel

La Tana : A more upscale supper club vibe

Teatro Amador : An old theater turned nightclub

CasaCasco : An upscale complex of 3 different restaurants, a nightclub, and rooftop terrace with the best views in Casco Viejo.

Where to stay in Panama City, Panama

The best area to stay in Panama City is either in Casco Viejo or close to it in neighboring areas. Note that the 5-star luxury chain hotels in Panama City are often much more affordable than in the US, so be sure to check their rates!

Here are the hotels I recommend:

JW Marriott : This is my favorite hotel in Panama City. My large suite came with a balcony with amazing views, and their stunning rooftop infinity pool is one the best in all of Latin America.

American Trade Hotel : This one is another favorite of mine! A super hip boutique hotel in Casco Viejo, and the “it” place to stay in Panama. It only has 50 rooms, so be sure to book early.

Tantalo : A more budget-friendly alternative to the American Trade Hotel, and another hot spot in Casco Viejo.

Waldorf Astoria : One of the few other 5-star options within Panama City. I stayed here and it was nice, but I prefer the JW.

W Panama : The W Hotel is always great, and a good affordable-luxury option in Panama City.

Day 3 – 4: Boquete

On day 3, take a quick, 1-hour early morning flight from Panama City (PTY) to the Chiriqui region’s city of David (DAV). From David, you can either rent a car or take a 45-minute taxi ride or shuttle to the beautiful, mountainous region of Boquete.

Boquete is known for its immersive nature, hiking and adventure activities, Volcan Baru, world-famous coffee plantations, abundant blooming flowers, and relaxation in the beautiful natural surroundings. It is also a popular retirement community for American expats young and old, as recommended by AARP for being one of the best places in the world to retire.

Things to do in Boquete

In Boquete, you’ll want to take advantage of the fresh mountain air and beautiful natural surroundings by partaking in adventure activities such as hiking, zip-lining, white water rafting, and more. Most activities require going with a guided tour, which you can book through your hotel or directly at the parks.

Boquete Tree Trek : This adventure park high in the lush mountains of Boquete offers the second-highest and longest-hanging bridges in Central America. They also offer ziplining and coffee tours. Guided tours only.

Volcan Baru National Park : Hiking the actual volcano is not the easiest (takes many hours in varying climates) but you can still visit and hike around the park ( Los Quetzal Trail at the base of the volcano ) as an alternative, or take a 4×4 up to the top. The top of the volcano is where you can see the Atlantic and Pacific oceans at once. If you do plan to hike the Volcano, make sure you do it with an experienced guide for safety!

Coffee Plantation Tour: Boquete is known for the world-famous “Geisha coffee” which is grown in the volcanic soil of Volcan Baru, making it some of the most expensive in the world. There are many different coffee tours in Boquete, with Finca Don Pepe being a great generational family and locally-owned option.

Swim in the river: Cool off and swim in the easily-accessible river of this natural canyon slot, Los Cangilones de Gualaca , which is about 40 minutes away from Boquete.

Whitewater rafting: Take an exciting ride whitewater rafting with an experienced guide on the Chiriqui Viejo River.

Chase waterfalls: Take a 2.1-mile hike through the cloud forest and be rewarded with waterfalls on The Lost Waterfalls Trail .

BCP Tuesday Market AKA The Gringo Market: Every Tuesday there is a market run by expats with both local and expat vendors selling crafts and produce. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and support the local farmers and artisans of Boquete.

Restaurants in Boquete, Panama

Many of the restaurants in Boquete are actually run by expats, but there are plenty of options for local dining as well. Here are the top choices for where to eat in Boquete:

The Rock : This is my number one recommendation and a popular restaurant amongst locals, expats, and tourists. They offer local and international upscale cuisine in a beautiful indoor and outdoor setting.

The Fish House : Another favorite. This casual seafood spot is known for its amazing fish & chips, and corvina (seabass) prepared 8 different ways.

Sugar and Spice : A popular cafe and bakery with breakfast items as well as sandwiches and fresh-baked pastries and bread.

Morton’s Bakehouse : A Kosher parve (dairy-free) bakery with great bread and awesome bagel sandwiches.

The Panamonte : A highly regarded fine-dining restaurant at The Panamonte Inn and Spa.

El Sabroson #3 : A super local, cafeteria-style restaurant with cheap and simple eats in 3 different locations (#3 seems to be the favorite.)

RetroGusto : Farm-to-table Italian dining.

Boquete Brewing Company : If you’re looking for nightlife, this is a popular hangout for both travelers and locals.

Big Daddy’s Grill : An expat hangout and serving typical bar food sometimes accompanied by live music, karaoke, or dancing (depending on the night.)

Fresas Mary : A cute little strawberry shack on the way to Volcan Baru which serves fresh strawberries and cream, strawberry milkshakes, and other strawberry sweets.

Where to stay in Boquete

Boquete is a much less developed region than Panama City (which is why it’s great!) but with that comes very few options for true luxury accommodations. The hotels here are mostly basic, however, here are a few nice ones I recommend:

The Inn at Palo Alto : This is a popular option for luxury travelers. The property is in a beautiful natural setting set against the Boquete River which you can hear from all over, adding to the tranquility of the environment. The rooms are simple casita-style accommodations, and the hotel has a nice little infinity pool and hot tub with lovely nature views.

Valle Escondido : A hacienda-style resort with a local residential feel, as it’s set within a community golf course.

Hotel Panamonte : A quaint cottage-style boutique hotel owned by the former President of Panama, Juan Carlos Varela.

Hotel Ladera : A slightly more modern hotel than what you typically find in Boquete! The location is a quick, 5-minute walk to downtown Boquete.

Day 5 – 6: Bocas del Toro

The last region you’ll visit is the islands of Bocas del Toro. I love to save the beach for last because I think it’s a great way to end a trip.

Bocas del Toro is a beautiful Caribbean archipelago off the east coast of Panama near the border of Costa Rica. There are about 9 inhabited islands and over 200 islets in Bocas del Toro. The main Island, Isa Colon, and its central hub known as Bocas Town is popular amongst backpackers and young travelers, giving it a very fun party vibe, but there are plenty of other more serene islands if that is what you prefer.

Boquete to Bocas del Toro

From Boquete, you will travel to Bocas del Toro either by shuttle or a driver, or you can pay for a one-way rental which was my preferred option. You can also fly, but it would require backtracking to Panama City so it’s not really worth it. Most people like to take a shuttle (such as Hello Travel Panama ) and find it pretty painless and affordable. The drive is about 3.5 hours to Almirante then around a 30-minute water taxi to Isla Colon. From there, you will either stay on Isla Colon if that is where your hotel is, or take a water taxi to your hotel’s island.

We rented our car from National at the David airport (drove to Boquete with it and used it there) then dropped it off at the Leiza Secure Parking lot in Almirante before taking the water taxi transport to Isla Colon with a company called Valencia. (There are several water taxi options at the port, this one was recommended to us by National.) The drive from Boquete to Almirante was a pleasant one, through lush mountains and passing by small waterfalls. There were a few areas of unpaved roads, two-lane highways, and a passport checkpoint getting into Almirante, but overall it was an easy and nice drive. The downside of driving is the one-way rental fee, making the overall rental price around $50 a day.

Things to do in Bocas del Toro

Bocas Town on Isla Colon is where you’ll find the most action, with plenty of restaurants and bars. Aside from that, naturally, activities in Bocas del Toro revolve in and around the water. To get around the Bocas, you’ll take a water taxi to the different islands, which only costs a couple of dollars, usually between $2 – 5 a person. For me, Bocas del Toro is kind of reminiscent of island hopping in Southeast Asia, such as in the countries of Thailand or Indonesia .

Taking an island-hopping day tour is an absolute must. I recommend Castillo’s Charters – they are fantastic and provide both group or private Island hopping tours in addition to water taxi services. (Feel free to DM them on Instagram or send a Whatsapp message — they are very helpful.) I set up a private tour, which allowed us to create a totally customized trip and visit the different sites at our own pace.

Some popular places to see in Bocas del Toro include: Sloth Island : An lush and foresty island where you tour around the perimeter by boat and hopefully see some sloths. Unfortunately, we did not see any sloths, but they can be found on other islands as well!

Starfish Beach (Playa Estrella) : As the name suggests, this beach is full of big, bright starfish and is one of the prettiest beaches on the islands. This beach was my favorite and I recommend it as a must-see! We were told that sometimes no starfish are seen, however, this was not my experience. Get here early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds as it is a very popular beach. There are a few beach bars here and the water is crystal clear and calm, making it a really nice place to hang out. Just remember not to pick the starfish up out of the water (even for a quick photo) as it can be very harmful (and deadly) to them. Many tours will take you to Starfish Beach, however, you can also get here on your own. To reach Starfish Beach from Bocas Town on Isla Colon, first, you must get to Bocas del Drago, and from there it is a few minutes water taxi ride to the beach (costs a couple of dollars) or a really nice 20-minute walk along the coast. To get to Bocas del Drago from Bocas Town you can either take a taxi (about 30 minutes and around $15-20 one way), the bus ($7 and about 45 minutes), or a water taxi, (which also takes about 30 minutes and costs around $5.)

Zapatillas : A set of 2 islands as part of a national park with some of the most beautiful beaches and clear waters in all of Bocas del Toro. These islands are paradise and an absolute must for any island hopping trip.

Coral Cay : A coral reef in the middle of the sea and the best place in Bocas to snorkel – lots of colorful fish.

Dolphin Cay : Where the dolphins hang out, and yes, we were lucky to see some!

The Floating Bar : a literal floating bar and restaurant in the sea that offers drinks, music, yoga, and water floaties to float and cool off with.

Hollywood : A cay with the name Hollywood because there are lots of starfish seen from the clear shallow water, but you’re not able to leave the boat here. If you’re going to Starfish Beach, you can skip Hollywood.

Partying and Nightlife in Bocas del Toro

If you came to party in Bocas del Toro like many do, there are plenty of opportunities to get your party on at the bars in Bocas Town. However, two party experiences you shouldn’t miss are: Filthy Friday : Happening every Friday, this multi-island bar crawl is one of the biggest events in Bocas with live DJs, drinking, dancing, games, and surprises.

Black Magic Bocas : A booze and party cruise on a pirate ship! Enjoy island hopping, swimming, lounging, partying, and good vibes.

Bocas del Toro Restaurants

There are many great places to eat so I recommend getting out of your hotel and exploring! Fresh seafood is of course the main appeal, best enjoyed with an ice-cold local beer or passion fruit margarita. Some of the best restaurants in Bocas del Toro are:

El Ultimo Refugio : One of the best (if not the best) restaurants on the islands. They serve local/Caribbean food and are a must-visit on Isla Colon.

Bibi’s on the Beach : A beach bar/restaurant on Isla Carenero with awesome ceviche and fried fish + a swimmable beach.

Raw Fusion : A popular Asian-fusion restaurant in the heart of Bocas Town.

Falafel Bocas : Amazing Kosher falafel and Israeli food run by the Chabad House in Bocas Town. If you are Jewish you should definitely consider having Shabbat dinner here alongside up to a hundred of Jewish travelers!

Leaf Eaters Cafe – Vegan/Vegetarian spot on Isla Carenero with great salads, tacos, and more.

Om Cafe – A very loved and popular Indian/International restaurant in Bocas Town.

Amaranto – Definitely the best coffee in Bocas Town / on all of Isla Colon

Cafe del Mar – Right next to Amaranto, a cute little cafe that’s great for breakfast.

Where to Stay in Bocas del Toro:

Deciding where to stay can be a bit of a challenge, so I’m here to help. First, you must know that if you are looking for luxury accommodations, they are few and far between. (There is a Viceroy opening up sometime in 2026 though which is exciting, albeit bittersweet because that means it’s losing some of its local authenticity as it’ll be the first Western chain hotel.) Most of the accommodations are pretty simple, especially on Isla Colon. You’ll find either eco-style lodges or traditional Caribbean ocean-front housing. There are 3 main islands where most of the action is which are Islas Colón (the main island), Carenero, and Bastimentos.

Step one is to decide whether you want to be in the center of the action (Isla Colon/Bocas Town) or if you want to have a more secluded stay. Being within walking distance of many restaurants and bars can be a plus, but I have to warn you that Isla Colon/Bocas Town can be very noisy from the late-night parties. As a luxury traveler, finding the right hotel was at the forefront of my mind, however, I didn’t want to be too far from the main island(s) so I could easily go back and forth instead of spending most of my time at the resort. I also wanted to spend at least one night in an overwater bungalow. This was a bit of a challenge as there are a limited amount of luxury hotels and overwater villas close to Isla Colon.

Bocas del Toro Overwater Bungalows & Luxury Hotels

Bocas Bali is my top choice for a luxury overwater bungalow hotel. It is the most similar experience to Bora Bora or the Maldives overwater resorts and is about a 15-minute boat ride away from the main island, Isla Colon. With a small number of rooms, this hotel can book up fast, so be sure to reserve in advance.

Red Frog Beach Island Resort is another popular option for luxury-minded travelers — probably the most popular. It’s not an overwater resort, but it is on one of the nicest beaches in the Bocas. It is also about 15 minutes from Isla Colon via water taxi.

There are also a handful of overwater eco-lodge-type bungalow hotels. They do not have all the luxury amenities you may be used to, but are a great option to get the overwater bungalow experience in a more affordable way. These include Sol Bungalows (5 minutes from Isla Colon), Azul Overwater Resort (45 minutes away) Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge (30 minutes away) and Eclypse De Mar (10 minutes away).

Eclypse De Mar is a lovely option for an overwater bungalow, though it is an eco-lodge, so there is no electricity during the day (but you really don’t miss or need it, and is an experience in itself!) Their honeymoon overwater villas are spacious, with a nice-sized outdoor deck, and an open glass coffee table within the living area to see the fish swim from below. They offer free rentals for kayaks, snorkel gear, and stand-up paddleboards, as well as a daily breakfast that you fill out a form for your desired breakfast options and they deliver it straight to your room at your preferred time. What’s especially unique about Eclypse De Mar in particular that other overwater resorts don’t offer, is that it is built on its own private nature reserve, which you can walk through to see sloths, monkeys, and lots of other wildlife. You can also stay in one of their treehouses within the nature reserve, which is also a pretty unique experience. The only drawback to staying at Eclypse De Mar is that it can be noisy during the night with music blaring from the nearby islands, though they do provide earplugs for that. Staying there was a fun experience to have for a short stay, as the accommodations and setting were very different from the other overwater bungalows I’ve stayed in.

Lastly, for another type of unique stay, eco-luxury, glamping, and treehouse options, you must check out La Loma Jungle Lodge and Palmar Beach Lodge .

As a final note, if you want to stay in Bocas Town on Isla Colon to be in the center of the action or if you need to catch an early flight as I did on my final night in the Bocas, Azul Par adise is nice and modern, and what I believe to be the nicest option in Bocas Town. (Book on the top 2 floors for a penthouse.)

Day 7: Back to Panama City

Say farewell to the Bocas and if you’re flying home internationally, sadly take your 1-hour flight back to Panama City from the small airport in Bocas Town. Note: You can also split up your time in Panama City by doing one day in the beginning and one at the end (up to your personal preference.) On your last day in Panama, if you’re not immediately flying home, get in that last restaurant from your list, book a spa treatment at a hotel, or if time permits, one last BIG adventure…

San Blas Islands

A popular day or overnight tour from Panama City is to the Islands of San Blas, known locally as Guna Yala. If your time in Panama permits at either the beginning or end of your trip, this stop comes highly recommended.

San Blas Islands are some of the most picture-perfect, untouched, remote islands in Panama. So much so, that the only accommodations are mostly local huts made from natural materials found on the islands, many with sand floors. Of the 378 islands in the archipelago, only 49 are inhabited. The islands are governed by the natives, known as Kunas or Gunas and tourists are not able to visit the islands freely in order to preserve their authenticity. You may not even take a coconut from the islands, as that is their main export and would therefore be considered stealing! There is no running hot water, virtually no electricity, and an entire island could share one bathroom, however, the setting is simply paradise on earth.

Panama City to San Blas – How to get to San Blas Islands

Besides the bare accommodations, the other caveat is that it is not so easy to get to. There are many San Blas tours from Panama City that can take you on a day trip (early morning to late night) or an overnight trip, however, it consists of a 3+ hour drive plus a 45-minute boat ride to reach the islands. (Or you could take a flight for about $350 round trip instead of driving, though this is less common.) That said, if having a completely unplugged, rugged, and culturally authentic getaway on a pristine island where you will do nothing but relax in paradise sounds appealing to you, the trek may be part of the fun.

Is San Blas worth it?

In general, I would say if you have the time and energy, visiting the San Blas Islands can be an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime type of experience. For me personally, having to rough it was not something I was after on this particular trip . It was a tough call, but in just one week I had to ultimately decide between visiting San Blas. cutting short Panama City (and my long list of restaurants I wanted to try), or perhaps cutting out Boquete or Bocas Del Toro entirely. I really wanted to experience the geographic variety Panama has to offer from the city, to the mountains, to the islands, and with Bocas Del Toro also coming highly recommended and a little more my speed at this point in my lifelong travel journey, San Blas, unfortunately, had to go. Having spent time visiting remote islands throughout the world, including all over Central America, in a way they sort of start to all blend together. Don’t get me wrong, I am not jaded by islands and still believe there’s nothing more beautiful on earth than a tropical paradise. Islands and beaches are my specialty and my favorite places to travel to – without a doubt – but at the end of the day (or with limited days, I should say,) an island is an island when they are undeveloped and therefore provide more or less the same type of experience.

The most exciting part to me was the prospect of being able to submerge in the local Kuna environment and learn about their culture, but I just wasn’t up for roughing it this time. I crave authenticity and local experiences while traveling, but in the end, I think I prefer the variety Bocas Del Toro offers, socializing with their locals, and there were some pretty fantastic islands there that got the job done great. All this is to say, the contrast between these two archipelagos may be interesting for travelers who have the time, and I absolutely wouldn’t mind returning to Panama one day to experience San Blas.

Panama Travel Tips

Getting to Panama:

From the US, Delta offers direct flights from major cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Orlando, and Atlanta (usually just once a week, which is great for this itinerary.) COPA Airlines also offer non-stop flights daily in some cities with more departure options in several countries in North, Central, and South America.

Best time to visit Panama and Panama’s climate:

Panama has a hot, humid, and tropical climate year-round. For most of the year, it rains in Panama with the driest months or “dry season” being December, January, and February, making December – February the best months to travel to Panama. The rest of the year is the “rainy season,” meaning it could rain any time. Don’t rely on the weather forecast apps, as they are usually inaccurate. The forecast will often predict rain which could mean anything from 10 minutes of rain to several hours, or sunshine and clear skies where you are but a torrential downpour just miles away. Be prepared with an umbrella.

Currency in Panama:

While the official currency of Panama is the balboa, the balboa and US dollar are tied and the US dollar is used throughout the country. (They don’t print money there, but you will receive both US and Panamanian coins as change.) Outside of the city, it is a good idea to have cash with you, particularly prior to arriving in Bocas del Toro because many places are cash-only and there is only one bank/ATM in the islands.

Is Panama affordable?:

Panama is relatively affordable for US travelers, but when compared to other Central American countries such as Costa Rica or Belize , it is on the slightly more expensive side. That said, 5-star hotels cost under $200 a night in Panama City, Ubers just a few dollars to get from one side of town to the opposite, and domestic flights are around $100 one way. Restaurants, cocktails, and coffee are all also much cheaper in Panama than in the US. The average daily cost for a luxury vacation is between $100 – $200 per person in the season, and in the high season, double that.

How to get around Panama:

In places like Panama City, Uber is easy and cheap. I recommend taking an Uber over regular taxis whenever you can as they cost less and are less of a hassle, but in a pinch, (i.e. you don’t want to wait for an Uber while taxis are abundant) a taxi is fine. Outside of Panama City such as in Boquete or Bocas del Toro, Ubers may be scarce or non-existent. Whenever taking a taxi in Panama, make sure to negotiate the price upfront before getting in the cab as they don’t use meters. Taxi drivers will surely try to rip tourists off, so as a rule of thumb whatever they quote you, you should negotiate to pay about half. There is also an efficient public transport system should you wish to use it.

Do they speak English in Panama?:

Spanish is the official language in Panama, however, English is widely spoken in the major tourist cities. In more remote areas and small towns, most people do not speak English. In the interest of being a socially-responsible traveler , I always recommend learning a few words, (at the very least hello and thank you) in the local language. It is always appreciated by the locals and you may get better service because of it. 🙂

Is Panama safe?:

Like many other destinations, safety varies from place to place within a country or city. In general, Panama is considered safe, especially along the tourist track, but you should exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings as petty theft and other small crime can occur. Be aware of your belongings to avoid getting pick-pocketed, try not to carry backpacks, large cameras, or flashy jewelry, and it is a good idea to carry copies of your Passport with you if needed for tours (while leaving your actual passport in the safe of your hotel.)

Can you drink the water in Panama?:

While tap water in most parts of Panama is considered safe to drink, for travelers it usually causes distress because we are not used to their microbiome, so bottled water is recommended. Something that helped me (my stomach) tremendously on this trip is a natural supplement called Travelan , which prevents traveler’s sickness . If there’s one thing you need to bring on this trip, it would be this.

Lastly, who should travel to Panama? Panama is great for anyone who enjoys a little bit of everything on a trip, with a strong sense of adventure as a requisite. It’s a beautiful country, but still a developing one very much so, so with that, it is rough around the edges. There is a strong distinction between the upper class and the impoverished, with not much of a middle. The best thing you can do is travel there and support their economy, shop local, dine local, tour with local guides, and learn as much as you can along the way. Panamanians are fantastic people with a great culture that doesn’t always get the credit it deserves!

Panama is great for anyone who enjoys a little bit of everything on a trip, with a strong sense of adventure as a requisite.

Perhaps you’ve already traveled to Mexico , Costa Rica , and Belize and would like to experience a somewhat similar, yet totally different Central American country. Or maybe you’re drawn to the islands, or other landscapes Panama has to offer. Many people suggest getting out of the city as soon as possible, but I think it’s worthwhile spending time there, too. What makes Panama great is the variety it has to offer. Whatever the case may be, I am sure that with the help of this itinerary, traveling to Panama will surely exceed your expectations and take you by surprise.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my  Disclosures  page.

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Share this:, 12 thoughts on “ the ultimate panama itinerary (7 days in panama or longer) ”.

hi super helpful! Just missing one part – return travel from Bocas de Toro? Also – when/what year was your trip taken to Panama?

Hi! Thanks for pointing this out – I mentioned the short flight back to Panama City but didn’t mention that there is a small airport right in Bocas Town (it’s in my Bocas del Toro guide.) I visited over the time around Christmas/New Years. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can help with. 🙂

What year did you visit and write this guide?

This is so helpful, thanks! And love the kosher info also! Anychance you checked out El Valle Do Anton? Noticed thats not on the list? I want to get in as much as I can so was thinking to swap one of the Panama City days with that, unsure how much I need to see the canal, is that terrible?!

You absolutely do not need to see the Canal 🙂 If nature is more your speed and your time is limited then skip it! I did not make it to El Valle De Anton (Boquete seems like it provides a similar experience) but Anton looks like a great option for a day trip from Panama City, so I say go for it! (And let me know how it is!)

My family and I are headed to Panama in March and following your itinerary. Wondering if you can help with details on the car rental from DAV to Almirante. You mention leaving it in the secured parking area. Did the rental company pick it up from there? I am having trouble figuring out that part of the reservation. Thanks for all the great advice.

Hi Megan, I’m very excited for you and your family! And yes, exactly, we did a one-way rental and were given the instructions for leaving it in a specific parking near where the ferries are to Bocas (and were instructed to give the keys to the parking attendant.) Let me know if I can help with anything else. 🙂

My husband and I want to go in March… I want to try to follow your itinerary! Sounds amazing! Thanks.

I think you guys will have a great time 🙂 I’m excited for you!

This is a great itinerary … so much fantastic information! How is the drive from Boca del Toro to Boquete? Is it safe? Do you have any suggestions for a driver?

Thanks so much for your comment 🙂 We drove from Boquete to Bocas Del Toro and the drive was quite pleasant! So I imagine doing it in reverse is good too. It felt pretty safe, nothing out of the ordinary. I don’t have a recommendation for a driver unfortunately since we had our own car, but many people take the Hello Travel Panama shuttle. Your hotel may also be able to recommend a driver. Have a great trip!

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The Perfect Panama Itinerary – 1 Week to 10 Days

Providing the bridge between Central and South America, Panama is an important yet overlooked country. Only slightly larger than Ireland, the ‘Crossroads of the World’ is a great destination for high-end travellers and backpackers alike. 

As Panama is relatively under-visited, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to planning a trip there. Luckily for you, the below Panama itinerary can help!

My two months in the country have put me in good stead to help you plan your trip. Below you will find routes for one week and ten days of travel in Panama. So kick back and relax, all you need to do now is book your flights! 

Read more: (opens in new tab)

• A Guide to Backpacking in Panama
• Getting from Panama to Colombia
• Iconic Hikes in Panama 

Epic Panama Itineraries

This post contains affiliate links. If you use them, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

1-Week Panama Itinerary 

The following Panama itinerary is a whistle-stop tour of the country’s main highlights. It has been created to optimise your time in the country which means it is jam-packed, allowing little time for relaxation! 

If you’re looking for a more slow travel experience, check out this suggested one-month backpacking route around Panama . There is so much more to see and do than the below Panama itinerary allows for! 

Panama City – 2 nights

The capital Panama City is one of the most easily accessible cities in Latin America. Serving a range of domestic and international flights from both Europe and North America, it is generally easy to reach. Your trip to Panama will likely begin here. 

Day 1 – Spend your first day in the capital exploring the beautiful Casco Viejo district. The city’s Old Town has plenty of character, with luxury hotels set in colonial buildings to crumbling graffiti-filled streets along the outskirts. A walking tour is a great way to explore this part of the city and get a feel for Panamanian culture. 

Head to the city’s fish market for a cheap and delicious lunch. This is a fabulous way to sample ceviche, one of the country’s most famous dishes. From the fish market, you can walk the Cinta Costera and head to Ancon Hill in the afternoon. 

Get an Uber here to avoid walking through any sketchy neighbourhoods. When you’ve reached Mi Pueblito, head up the path towards the flag that waves from the hill above. During your walk, keep an eye out for Panamanian wildlife – this is a great place to spot sloths and other exotic animals. 

Make the most of your evening by enjoying dinner and drinks in one of the many rooftop restaurants in Casco Viejo. These offer a fantastic view of the city skyline lit up and provide the perfect backdrop for a toast to your trip. Stay in Casco Viejo overnight. 

Day 2 – Rise early in the morning and grab a traditional Panamanian breakfast at Cafe Coca Cola in Casco Viejo. This is the oldest cafe in the city and offers great value for money. From there, head out on a trip to the famous Panama Canal, one of the city’s best day trips . 

While it is possible to visit the Miraflores locks independently using public transport, I’d advise hopping on a tour. Not only will you save a lot of time but having a guide to explain how everything works is a worthwhile experience. Check out some recommended Panama Canal tours here . 

Once you have finished your visit or tour of the canal, head to the Amador Causeway. Here you can grab lunch in one of the swanky restaurants or cool off with a raspado from one of the street vendors. Walk the Amador Causeway right up to where the boats depart for Taboga Island and the Pearl Islands and enjoy a bit of duty-free shopping.

Head back to your accommodation in Casco Viejo and enjoy some food at Mahalo Cocina y Jardin before turning in. You’ll need to get an early night because you’ll be heading out early tomorrow on your San Blas trip! 

Recommended accommodation in Panama City: 

• Selina Casco Viejo 
• Las Clementinas
• American Trade Hotel

Also read: 

• Where to Stay in Panama City
• Cheap Things to Do in Panama City 

San Blas/Guna Yala – 1 night

Day 3 – Prepare to be picked up early by your tour provider. You will then be whisked away to the San Blas islands (a.k.a. Guna Yala). The journey by car will take several hours so if you’re feeling tired, you can catch some shut-eye while you travel.

Once you arrive at the dock, hop on board your boat and prepare to be whisked off to one of the archipelago’s many islands. Enjoy the day snorkelling, playing volleyball and relaxing on some of the finest beaches that the Caribbean has to offer. Stay on one of the San Blas islands overnight. 

– How to Get to San Blas, Panama

Panama City – 1 night

Day 4 – Enjoy a couple more hours in San Blas paradise that morning before you embark on your journey back to Panama City. You will likely arrive back in the city early evening. Grab some food close to your accommodation when you arrive and pack up your stuff ready for a new destination tomorrow. 

Bocas del Toro – 2 nights 

Day 5 – Take a morning flight to the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Once you arrive on Isla Colón, head out to Starfish Beach . If you have arrived early, consider getting a colectivo to the beach and doing the hike. Alternatively, you can pay for a water taxi to take you there. (This is the quicker option.)

Spend the remainder of the day enjoying the beautiful beach and spotting starfish. If you are lucky enough to see these wonderful animals, do not touch them – it can be harmful . 

Return to Bocas Town and head off to the famous floating bar for a few drinks. Enjoy food, drinks and an epic sunset here. After this, grab a water taxi back to your accommodation in Isla Colón. 

Recommended accommodation on Isla Colón: 

• Koko Acqua Lodge
• Azul Bocas Town
• Hotel Bocas Town

Also read: Things to Do in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Day 6 – Head out on a day trip to Cayos Zapatilla. Depending on the tour that you choose, you will likely stop at a few notable places in the archipelago on your way to this beach paradise. Once you get there, enjoy sunning yourself on the sand and taking in the magnificent views. 

Depending on your flight on the final day of your trip, you can either return to your accommodation in Bocas Town, ready to fly out of the archipelago early tomorrow morning or catch a water taxi to Isla Bastimentos. 

If you are leaving Panama late the following day, I’d advise heading to Bastimentos Island overnight so you can see a little more of what the archipelago has to offer. Visit the Firefly Restaurant for a delicious seafood dinner before turning in. 

Recommended accommodation on Isla Bastimentos:

• La Loma Jungle Lodge
• Selina Red Frog
• Palmar Beach Lodge

Day 7 – Those with an early morning flight will need to make their way to the airport in Bocas Town to fly back to Panama City before catching their connecting flight home. 

If your flight leaves Bocas later that day and you are on Isla Bastimentos, head to the beautiful Red Frog Beach and spend the morning sunning yourself or doing yoga on the hidden deck. 

Catch a water taxi back to Bocas Town for lunch. Cafe del Mar is a great eatery with a range of dishes to suit various dietary requirements. After lunch, grab a taxi to the airport and hop on board your return flight to Panama City. 

10-Day Panama Itinerary

If you have ten days, follow the above week-long Panama itinerary but add Boquete into the mix. Instead of flying from Panama City to Bocas del Toro , head from the capital to the mountain town of Boquete. 

You can either get a bus from Panama City, transferring in David or fly to the city of David and catch a bus from there to save time. 

Spend two nights in Boquete, enjoying the cooler climate and incredible hiking opportunities. There are countless amazing treks in Boquete but I would wholeheartedly recommend you do at least one of the following:

• Volcan Baru (overnight trek)
• Pipeline Trail
• El Pianista
• The Lost Waterfalls

Spend your second day at Boquete Tree Trek where you can take on Panama’s Hanging Bridges , go zip lining over the cloud forest or embark on a coffee tour. 

When your time in Boquete comes to an end, arrange a transfer from Boquete to Bocas del Toro – these can be booked with various tour agencies across town. From here, pick up the above Panama itinerary again. Those spending 10 days in Panama should spend an extra night on Bastimentos Island on Bocas del Toro, and use the extra time during the day to explore the incredible Nivida Bat Cave . 

Recommended accommodation in Boquete:

• Selina Boquete 
• Boquete Garden Inn
• Bambuda Castle

Also read:  

• Best Places to Stay in Boquete, Panama
• Getting From Panama City to Boquete
• Things to Do in Boquete, Panama

Panama Itinerary FAQ

How many days are enough in panama.

In my opinion, the longer the better! While a week or 10 days will provide a good introduction to this country, I’d recommend staying at least a month if you want to get off the beaten track a little too. 

Is Panama cheap or expensive? 

Panama is not the cheapest country in Latin America nor is it the most expensive. The United States Dollar is commonly used in Panama which keeps prices comparatively high. For a reference point, Panama is cheaper than Belize and Costa Rica but more expensive than Colombia. 

Are two weeks enough for Panama? 

Two weeks is an ideal length of time for vacationers visiting Panama. If you are staying for two weeks, follow the one-week Panama itinerary and double the amount of time spent in each place. You will certainly find plenty of interesting attractions and activities to fill your time! 

Which of these Panama itineraries are you choosing? Share the highlights from your trip in the comments! 

Best (& Worst) Time Of The Year To Visit Panama: Weather By Month

This post contains affiliate links. I will earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.

If you’re thinking about heading to Central America, have you ever considered visiting Panama? If this is the case, you might want to know when the best time to visit Panama is .

To make sure you have the best experience, you’ll need to plan your trip around Panama’s tropical climate. It’s an equatorial country which sees both the sunshine and the rainy weather.

Whenever you decide to go, know that Panama is one of our favourite countries and surpassed all of our expectations.  We spent weeks backpacking the country and loved every moment of our trip! It’s filled with nature and wildlife and soft sandy beaches; it’s literally a haven for adventure travellers and nature enthusiasts.

So, to help you plan an epic adventure, we’ve written this guide to tell you everything there is to know about Panama’s weather, month by month!

Don’t Get Caught Out, Discover Panama’s Weather Month By Month And The Best Time To Visit For You!

In this post, we will cover the weather in Panama month by month to help you plan your perfect holiday! I’ll also include topics:

• The best time of the year to visit Panama
• The worst time to visit Panama
• Our experience visiting Panama in May
• The Geographic overview of Panama
• Festivals and carnivals in Panama not to be missed!

When Is The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Panama?

This is a relative question because depending on your reasons and which activities are attracting you to Panama, the time of year to visit will change.

However, most will agree that the best time of the year to visit Panama for a holiday is during the dry season between January, February and March.

The period from mid-December to March sees the most pleasant temperatures. You will get dry days with plenty of sunshine . There is also a gentle breeze with some cloud coverage so it brings relief from the sun and high temperatures.

That said, there are some questions you should ask yourself to help narrow down the best time of the year to visit Panama for you . Answer these questions to get started:

• Which part of the country are you thinking of exploring?
• Are you okay with variable terrains?
• Does the presence of crowds bother you?
• Does high humidity have a negative impact on your comfort?
• Are you comfortable with cooler or warmer temperatures?
• Do you lean towards spending your time outdoors hiking, by the beach or delving into a new city experience?

Give these questions some thought, and once you’ve determined the answers, you’ll be on your way to discovering when the best time to visit Panama is for you.

Ultimately, 

• The best times for dry weather is between January and March
• The best time for budget travellers is April to early December
• The best time for surfers is May to November

What We Think 

We think the best time to visit Panama is during the shoulder seasons . In Panama, these are a couple of weeks during mid-December and mid-April to early May . These shoulder months bring short spells of sunshine between the wet and dry seasons and fewer crowds. Due to this, they are actually great times to visit Panama! 👉 Further Reading We think Panama is worth visiting, find out why here!

Are you planning a trip to Panama soon? Use my links below to book!

Accommodations – I recommend Booking.com Flights – I recommend Skyscanner Travel Insurance – I recommend SafetyWing Tours/experiences – I recommend Get Your Guide Car rental – I recommend DiscoverCars These are all the sites I personally use to book my trips, and if you use them, some of them will earn me a commission at no extra cost to you . This helps reduce the ever-increasing costs of keeping my site up. Thanks!

What Is The Worst Time To Visit Panama?

Is it the wet season?

Again, this is relative. If you’re a surfer and want to visit Panama to enjoy its waves, then the rainy season is the best time to visit! This isn’t true for those of you seeking endless days on the beach or wanting to experience Panama’s incredible hiking trails. 

Even so, most will agree that the worst time to visit Panama is during the wet season , especially the months of October and November which see the most rainfall. Then again, the country holds some fantastic festivals during these months!

That said, it’s a busy time for domestic travel due to the number of national holidays. You’ll find many roads are blocked due to parades and the shops and businesses all but shut down. So, not ideal if you’re trying to travel and have a relaxing holiday.

• The worst times for wet weather is October and November
• The worst times for budget travellers is late-December to March
• If you’re looking for beach days, the worst time to visit is…depends on what side of the country you go!

Caught you out? We were confused at first, too…Panama has an interesting geological topography and climate. 

Panama Geographic Overview

Panama has both a Caribbean side and a Pacific side and is generally categorised into two climates : dry and wet . But the Caribbean side doesn’t really see a dry season. 

This is because although Panama has a tropical weather pattern created by the collision of the north and south Trade Winds, it features a subclimate on the Caribbean side: an equatorial climate. 

You can expect it to be hot and rainy all year round on the north Caribbean coast , as is expected by an equatorial climate but, tropical on the Pacific Coast.

Tropical climates are categorised by hot weather but with a dry and wet season.

Panama is a Central American country located just 8 degrees north of the equator , its close proximity to the equator is the reason why it has a tropical climate. It doesn’t matter what side of the country you are on; temperatures will be fairly consistent all year round.

In fact, the landscape is what alters the temperatures. North of the Isthmus, Panama has a central mountain range which divides the Pacific Coast and Caribbean Coast. 

You will find that the temperatures vary with altitude rather than with seasons. The higher you go, the cooler it becomes and even the nights can become chilly. Whereas, in the lowlands, it is hot and humid during the day and only slightly cooling off to give pleasant nights.

The North Pacific Coast sees drier plains than the South as it is sheltered by Panama’s mountainous spine. However, due to this, the south is more lustrous. If you’re visiting during the wet season the Azuero Peninsula could be a great shout as it sits in the north Pacific side of Panama!

Our Experience Visiting Panama

“There are more species of birds and plants in Panama — a country the size of South Carolina — than there are in all of Canada and the United States combined.” Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

Jack and I have only been to Panama once but it was enough to carve the destination into our hearts forever. So much so that we are already planning a return trip!

The start of my journey to Panama found me on a sailing boat in early May 2022. Departing from Colombia’s popular port city of Cartagena, I was heading for the San Blas Islands on a 5-day sailing trip. 

Jack decided to fly straight to Panama City and meet me after this adventure as he isn’t a fan of boats! It was a decision he questions now and again…

The San Blas Islands were my first encounter with Panama. They were something special and along with 8 other people we created lifetime memories there. If you get the chance to go, make sure you plan for at least a day trip to the San Blas Islands, preferably more!

The weather was perfect . We had sunny skies for the most part although there were a few dark clouds and the odd shower but these didn’t last long and were generally at night. There was one time we were snorkelling and soft droplets began to fall, but the water was warm and, in my opinion, it made the activity even better! 

May is the start of the rainy season , but even if there are heavier skies the downpours seem to be less frequent and softer on the Caribbean side.

After the San Blas Islands, I headed to Panama City where we spent a few days . We experienced only one day of rain – when we were walking around Casco Viejo . And, although the skies were duller the sun still made a constant appearance. 

By the time we reached Playa Venao on the Azuero Peninsula , we had a solid week of rain. We were there to surf and since we were in the water most of the day it didn’t affect us. However, there was no opportunity for sunbathing.

Afterwards, we headed to Boquete which is a town in Panama’s central mountain range. There, we had a fantastic time hiking , exploring and eating our way through local delicacies. 

👉 Related Post: We loved Boquete and so to help you plan your visit we’ve written a guide for where to stay to suit ALL BUDGETS!

We saw rain but not as frequently as the week before and generally only in the evening and night. The mornings were fresh and filled with wildlife , and when we did most of our exploration – this was the best time to take a guided wildlife tour through the jungles.

Would We Recommend Visiting Panama In May?

Panama is a year-round destination and although May is thought of as a bad time to visit we had a great time. It is just at the end of the shoulder season which means you’re likely to get both sunshine and rain , with more rain towards the end of the month.

Since we enjoy hiking and nature experiences just as much as beach days we weren’t bothered that we couldn’t enjoy sunbathing. If the beach is what you’re after, I would suggest visiting mid-April instead.

For all other activities, May is a good time to visit. Since it falls into the off-season, attractions are cheaper , there are fewer tourists and accommodation is more affordable. This makes May a great time to visit if you’re travelling on a budget.

During May and with most of the wet season you’ll notice the downpours lasting no more than an hour or two during the day with most occurring at night. Therefore, it is still possible to plan activities but aim for the mornings.

As the wet season progresses, hiking trails can become bogged down, soggy and dangerous so I also wouldn’t recommend visiting later in the season if you want to go hiking.

Panama Weather By Month

Do you know which month you’re visiting Panama? Find out below if it’s a good time to go.

Weather Stats For Panama

Rainiest month(s) in Panama: October and November Driest month(s) in Panama: January, February and March Warmest month(s) in Panama: February, March, April and June Coldest month(s) in Panama: October and November Most crowded month(s) in Panama: January, February and March Least crowded month(s) Panama: May, June, July, August, September and early December

Panama In January

In January, Panama offers the perfect escape. With an average temperature of 27ºC, it marks the first month of the dry season , making it an ideal time to explore. This is when Panama’s beaches shine their brightest, with golden sands beckoning sun-seekers.

For nature enthusiasts, the rainforest hiking experiences are truly enchanting during this time as the forests are lustrous and green following the rainy season. 

Adventurers can also embrace the thrill of kitesurfing along the coast. With the Trade Winds at their strongest from December to mid-February you’ll get the perfect conditions for this exhilarating sport.

The downside is that it’s one of the busiest months to visit Panama . January stands out as a popular month of the year where the skies are often exceptionally clear, creating a stunning backdrop but attracting the most crowds and higher prices.

Best places to visit during January in Panama :

Boquete Panama City Isla Taboga San Blas Islands Bocas del Toro Colon Portobelo

Panama In February

In February, Panama is at its prime with an average temperature of 28ºC. It’s the height of the peak season , offering up to 9 hours of glorious sunshine. 

The weather is warm and dry , making it an excellent time for beach lovers and rainforest hiking. It’s the perfect time to visit if you want to explore the islands on the Pacific Coast, go snorkelling and take part in adventure sports such as kitesurfing

Just keep in mind, it’s a bustling time to explore this beautiful country so you can expect high prices for tourist attractions and accommodations. You’ll need to book activities in advance to ensure they don’t get booked up so pre-planning is a must!

Best places to visit during February in Panama :

Panama City  Portobelo  Colon Las Tablas  Penonomé San Blas Islands

Panama In March

In March, Panama continues its sunny streak , much like January and February. With an average temperature of 28ºC, it’s still the height of the dry season . Panama’s golden beaches and rainforest hikes remain irresistible. 

Additionally, it’s an excellent time to explore places like Bocas del Toro and Guna Yala – San Blas Islands . Notably, Bocas del Toro enjoys two relatively dry spells, one being around March, making it a prime time to visit this coastal gem.

Again, expect higher prices.

Best places to visit during March in Panama :

Boquete Panama City David Portobelo Colon Bocas del Toro San Blas Islands Península de Azuero

Panama In April

In April, Panama has the warmest of temperatures , with an average of 29ºC that can occasionally peak at 32ºC. It marks the end of the dry season , offering the last of the dry weather up until mid-April. 

Easter is a highlight with the country celebrating this holiday. The beaches get crowded and you’ll find daytime highs often reaching over 30ºC. 

It’s worth noting that Easter coincides with spring break , so expect bustling crowds if you’re visiting during this period.

This is an ideal time for hiking in the forests as you’ll be shaded from the heat by tropical trees. But, it’s important to keep in mind that mid-April signals the start of the wet season. However, this shoulder season can be an excellent period to visit, as prices start to drop. 

Just remember that while April brings warmth, sunshine isn’t always guaranteed and it begins to get humid . Puffy hair anyone?

Best places to visit during April in Panama :

Panama City David Azuero Peninsula Santa Catalina & Isla Coiba Rio Hato Boquete Puerto Armuelles

Panama In May

In May, Panama offers an average temperature of 28ºC. It marks the first month of the wet season , signalling the end of the shoulder season towards mid-May. 

If you’re a surf enthusiast, it’s an exciting time as waves begin to grow larger, creating ideal conditions for catching the perfect ride!  Hiking is still possible and the wetter weather brings fewer crowds and more affordable rates.

Nature lovers will find May remarkable, as it’s the start of the nesting season for loggerhead and green sea turtles along the Caribbean coast.

You can expect the odd showers at the start of the month and becomes more frequent towards the end. Even so, rain showers during the wet season last no more than an hour or two during the day.

Best places to visit during May in Panama :

Santa Catalina Playa Venao Bocas del Toro Isla de Canas

Panama In June

This month is a dream for surfers , as the waves are at their best, providing thrilling rides along the coast. It’s also a fantastic time for nature enthusiasts as it can be one of the best times to spot wildlife.

The rain brings life to the jungle and oceans making it the very best time to experience water based-activities. You’ll find that the lakes and rivers fill and flow faster so if you fancy white water rafting , this is the month to visit.

Additionally, June marks the celebration of the Corpus Christi festival in La Villa de Los Santos, a cultural highlight with vibrant parades and festivities. 

However, it’s essential to note that humidity soars in June, and rain showers, along with regular thunderstorms, become more frequent. Be prepared for a downpour if you plan to explore Panama during this time.

The good news is that even though the skies are in near-constant cloud coverage, the rain lasts only for an hour or two and tends to be mid to late afternoon. 

Best places to visit during June in Panama :

Los Santos Panama City Soberania National Park Boquete Bocas del Toro Bastimentos Island Colon

Panama In July

In July, Panama embraces a comfortable average temperature of 27ºC . It’s a haven for surfers along the Pacific Coast, where the best waves continue to form; head to Playa Venao on the Azuero Peninsula for a great experience.

While the Caribbean Coast still sees regular showers it is drier in comparison to the Pacific side, for history enthusiasts, this is a good time to visit Portobelo .

Surprisingly, the Pacific Coast is drier than that in May and June; humidity is also slightly lower than in July. 

July also sees the start of the humpback whale migration which attracts wildlife fanatics to the Pacific Coast. July is still considered an off-peak month for visitors, meaning you can find better hotel rates and fewer crowds.

July is also quite a festive month in Panama, with a range of celebrations, including the Fiesta de Virgen del Carmen in Santa Catalina, Nuestra Señora del Carmen in Isla Taboga, and two more in Las Tablas. 

It’s a great time to immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of Panama!

Best places to visit during July in Panama :

Pearl Islands Panama City Santa Catalina Isla Taboga Colon  Portobelo Las Tablas  Soberania National Park

Panama In August

The month of August in Panama is a haven for divers and wildlife enthusiasts as humpback whales, sharks, and orcas continue to gather in their thousands along the Pacific shoreline. The best place to spot them is at Pearl Island.

For surfers, the waves are still inviting , making it a fantastic time for riding the waves. However, it’s worth noting that August is the cloudiest month of the year in Panama.

Despite the clouds, it’s still possible to visit the Caribbean side of Panama. The San Blas Islands typically see rain for only an hour or so in the afternoon but have warm, sunny skies in the morning. The rain actually brings a welcome relief from the humidity, leaving clear skies afterwards.

In the lush rainforests, August marks a thriving period , with nature bursting with life and greenery. It’s a unique time to witness Panama’s natural beauty in full bloom.

Best places to visit during August in Panama :

Pearl Islands Panama City Azuero Peninsula Parque Nacional Coiba Santa Fe National Park Ocú San Blas Islands

Panama In September

In September, Panama is well and truly into the wet season, offering an average temperature of 27ºC. This month continues to present an exciting opportunity for divers and wildlife enthusiasts , as humpback whales, sharks, and orcas gather off the Pacific coast.

However, due to the rain, there’s less visibility for scuba diving and snorkelling so it’s preferable to take boat trips to see them rather than underwater adventures. 

September also marks the last chance to experience Panama ‘s hiking trails before heavy rains set in, so it’s a unique time to explore the country with fewer visitors and better rates, ideal for budget travellers!

Surfers will continue to find fantastic waves during this season. For those of you interested in the Bocas del Toro island s, September is surprisingly one of the driest months to visit.

Keep in mind that for hiking, towards the end of September, it isn’t the most ideal time to explore, as it marks the beginning of a wetter period that extends into October and November.

Best places to visit during September in Panama :

Panama City Bocas del Toro San Blas Islands Pearl Islands Guarare

Panama In October

In October, Panama offers a comfortable average temperature of 26ºC . This is the prime time to experience Panama with as few visitors as possible, ensuring a more tranquil exploration of the country.

The landscape thrives during this month, creating a vivid rainforest. The rivers and lakes are full and new life has sprung into every nook and cranny of the country. It continues to be a great time to observe the whale migration.

Although daily rain is guaranteed, the downpours are typically confined to a few hours in the late afternoon. Luckily, the weather is quite predictable, allowing for easy itinerary planning.

The best part is Panama begins to celebrate regional fairs during October, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural traditions.

For those interested in visiting Bocas del Toro , note that Bocas enjoys two relatively dry spells, one of which is in October. This makes it a great time to explore this coastal treasure!

Best places to visit during October in Panama :

Panama City David Bocas del Toro Portobello

Panama In November

In November, Panama continues to offer a pleasant average temperature of 26ºC. It’s still the best time to experience the country with as few visitors as possible.

However, it’s worth noting that the rain can be unrelenting in November, with the most rain per year, often up to 5 hours a day, although this is still usually in the afternoons. 

This month is when the whole country takes off to celebrate multiple independence-related festivals, a time of cultural richness and celebrations from both Spain and Colombia.

Panama City tends to empty out as people head to the beaches, but the rain, at times torrential, still accompanies the festivities.

November isn’t the best time to visit the Caribbean Coast, as it experiences heavy rainfall. However, the end of November sees a drastic change in weather, with the rains starting to die off, particularly on the Pacific Coast.

If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly options, November is the cheapest time of the year to visit Panama. 

Again, the month continues to be a unique opportunity to witness humpback whales from both the northern and southern hemispheres as they migrate to mate and give birth, creating a remarkable natural spectacle.

Best places to visit during November in Panama :

Panama City Pearl Islands Azuero Peninsula

Panama In December

In December, Panama’s average temperature remains 26ºC, setting the stage for a delightful holiday season . However, it’s essential to pre-book accommodations, as Christmas and the period onwards mark the start of the dry season , drawing visitors from around the world.

As the month progresses, the weather warms up, and by mid-December , Panama experiences a dramatic decrease in rainfall , making it an excellent time to explore. The sea temperatures are also comfortable, at around 27°C (81°F).

If your plan is to witness the wonder of the Panama Canal , mid-December just before Christmas and New Year’s is the best time to visit, ensuring a smooth and memorable journey through this engineering marvel.

The rainforests in December are truly special, buzzing with new life after the rains. It’s an exceptional time to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Panama.

It’s also the best time to take to the water, activities such as white water rafting and kitesurfing are ideal during this period.

Best places to visit during December in Panama :

Panama City Santa Catalina Bocas del Toro Azuero Peninsula Chiriqui Pearl Islands Coiba National Park

Does Panama Have Seasons?

Panama does not have the typical four seasons most of the northern hemisphere experiences. Instead of spring, summer, autumn and winter, Panama has only two seasons: dry and wet. 

However, these seasons can differ slightly depending on which month and which side of the country you visit. 

This is due, in part, to the Isthmus of Panama, Panama’s central mountain spine and the convergence of the northern and southern Trade Winds.

Generally, the Caribbean Coast will remain damp throughout the year although the sun will appear in the mornings and afternoon. During the wet season, areas such as Bocas del Toro on the Caribbean side of Panama actually experience their driest months!

The Pacific coast sees a typical tropical climate. The dry season is from mid-December to mid-April whereas the wet season starts from mid-April and ends mid-December.

That said, Panama is a year-round destination.

During the dry season in Panama, most of the country enjoys sunny days and minimal rainfall. However, as I mentioned the Caribbean Coast will still experience occasional showers as will the highlands.

Due to the guaranteed sunshine, this is the busiest time for visiting Panama and therefore it becomes the most expensive time to visit as well. 

For hiking, popular places like Boquete and the group excursions into the national parks from Panama City can become crowded alongside excursions to the stunning San Blas Archipelago.

👉 It’s best to pre-book all your tours during the high season. We use Get Your Guide and Viator to pre-book our tours. They are both safe and reputable companies that we love!

While it’s ideal for hiking and water-based sports, the wind during this season can reduce visibility for snorkelers, so keep that in mind if you’re planning aquatic adventures!

The peak season encompasses major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter, as well as Carnival season. 

The rainy season in Panama stretches from mid-April through December , with its peak occurring in late October and November. During these wettest months, travel in the highlands can become challenging, if not impossible. 

The low season in Panama corresponds to the rainy months, particularly from June through November. This is when you’ll find the most affordable rates in travel, tours and accommodation.

The highlight of the wet season is the beauty of Panama’s natural landscape which truly flourishes. The annual whale migration also takes place during this season which is perfect for nature enthusiasts.

On the Pacific side, you’ll encounter thunderstorms and brief, intense tropical downpours. Meanwhile, on the Caribbean side, showers are less frequent, often occurring at night.

The rain is quite predictable which means it’s possible to plan your itinerary if you’re visiting during this period.

Panamanian Festivals & Public Holidays

Festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm in Panama. Traditionally, you’ll find water trucks, known as “culecos,” at most celebrations during the hottest months which spray the crowds with water. 

Popular celebrations are:

• January: Feria de las Flores y del Café in Boquete (date varies).
• February: Carnival and Ash Wednesday (Feb/March) are celebrated all over the country, but especially in Las Tablas and Panama City, with an aquatic version in Penonomé; Comarca de Guna Yala (Feb 25) celebrates the Guna Revolution of 1925, their independence day; Festival de los Diablos y Congos , biennially in Portobelo (2019,2021,2023…)
• March: Feria Internacional de David , Chiriquí; Semana Santa celebrations , celebrated everywhere, but most colourfully in La Villa de Los Santos, Pesé and Guararé, on the Azuero Peninsula.
• April: Feria de las Orquideas in Boquete (date varies); Feria International del Azuero in La Villa de Los Santos (date varies). Easter holidays!
• May: Labor Day.
• June: Corpus Christi, La Villa de Los Santos.
• July: Fiesta de Virgen del Carmen , Santa Catalina; Nuestra Señora del Carmen (July 16) on Isla Taboga; Patronales de La Santa Librada and Festival de la Pollera in Las Tablas (July 20–22).
• August: Panama La Vieja Day , Panama City; Festival Nacional del Manito Ocueño , Ocú. 
• September: Feria Internacional del Mar, Bocas del Toro; Feria de la Mejorana , Guararé.
• October: Festival del Toro Guapo , Antón. Festival of Nogagope (Oct 10–12) on Isla Tigre, Comarca de Guna Yala; Feria Guna (mid-Oct) on Isla Tigre; Festival de la Mejorana (five days mid-Oct) in Guararé; Fiesta de Cristo Negro (Oct 21) in Portobelo.
• November: Día de la Independencia (November 28). Cities and towns across the nation put on parades featuring school drumming troupes and majorettes, which the whole population comes out to watch.
• December: New Year and Christmas

Panama Resources

After reading all that I hope you’re considering Panama as your next destination! If it’s your first time visiting, we’ve written loads of useful guides to help you plan your itinerary. Here are the most popular articles to get you started:

• Perfect Panama 14-Day Itinerary: Travel Made For You
• 19 Fantastic Things To Do In Boquete Panama
• 21 Best Things To Do In Panama City
• Playa Venao To Boquete: How To Get There & Tips
• Panama City To Playa Venao: How To Get There & Tips
• Playa Venao To Bocas Del Toro: How To Get There & Tips

What To Pack For Panama

Since Panama has both wet and dry seasons, knowing what to pack can be confusing. In truth, you don’t need to pack too differently as the temperatures remain constant throughout the year. 

Instead, you will only need to pack a rain jacket and potentially some warmer layers for the cooler evenings if you are visiting the highlands. 

Click the link below to download your very own Panama packing list:

However, to quickly bullet point the essentials:

• City exploration: lightweight trousers/shorts and skirts, and a comfortable pair of walking shoes/trainers.
• Evening wear: Semi-formal trousers and short-sleeved shirts for men / smart dresses and flat sandals for women
• Beach exploration : lightweight dresses, shorts, vests, flip-flops and sandals 
• Mountain exploration: lightweight, absorbent trousers/shorts/t-shirts and a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
• General : lightweight rain/windproof jacket, rainproof phone cover, bug repellant and a Panama travel book!

Panama Weather By Month FAQs

The rainy season in Panama, also known as the wet season or the low season starts around mid-April and ends mid-December. You can expect daily showers lasting an hour or so towards the late afternoon and evening.

The rainiest/wettest month in Panama is October and November. Although these are the wettest months Panama is a year-round destination. There are many festivals and wildlife adventures to experience during this period; notably the humpback whale migration. 

The cheapest time to visit Panama is October and November at the height of the wet season. Although daily rain is guaranteed it is still worth visiting Panama during this period. The rainforests are truly spectacular and the whale migration is in full swing. Surprisingly, the islands of Bocas del Toro have a dry period in October.

October is thought of as one of the worst months to visit Panama as the rains are at their heaviest. However, October can still be a good time to visit Panama. If you are travelling on a budget, seeking cultural festivities or hoping to see humpback whales migrating along the Pacific Coast, October can prove to be the perfect time to visit Panama.

Best Time Of The Year To Visit Panama Conclusion

In our opinion, the best time of the year to visit Panama is late November into mid-December or mid-April into early May . Panama is a wonderful country which remains less crowded than other Central American countries. 

Therefore it’s a great place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in local culture , food and experiences without being swamped by other tourists. The country is still unique and authentic with multiple locations to visit. 

It has a typography for most holiday-makers with pristine beaches, untouched islands and mystical cloud forests. The urban buzz around Panama City is fun and lively and the Panamanians are a f riendly, welcoming people.

Overall, no matter what time of the year you decide to visit Panama, I guarantee you’ll have an amazing experience come rain or shine!

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Abigail Dalton is the owner and creator behind I’m Going On An Adventure, a blog which helps travellers find unique destinations worldwide. She focuses on budget travel and outdoor adventure, giving first-hand experiences to help her readers plan their perfect trips and make the best memories. She also helps travellers plan their dream holidays with bespoke travel services where she creates fun-packed itineraries. When she isn't writing about her travels you'll find her on long country walks foraging for mushrooms or enjoying a cool fruity white under the sun, toes tucked in the sand.

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When is the best time to visit Panama?

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• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Panama is between January and mid-April. This is the driest part of the year and shows off this tropical country at its most stunning.

However, it’s also worth considering traveling to Panama during the rest of the year, when you can experience local events and festivals. You’ll still enjoy warm temperatures (they stay at an average of 86°F) and if you’re not bothered by a bit of rain, it offers great value.

There are short, heavy bursts of rain almost daily on the Caribbean coast. The Pacific coast has a wet season from May to November.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Panama

Visiting Panama in January - March

With plenty of sun and only rare showers, January to March is a popular time to travel in Panama, with visitors from around the world descending on the country (so it’s best to plan your trip well in advance). Minimal rains will also give you excellent visibility if you wish to snorkel or dive.

Events & Festivals

• The town of Boquete in western Panama holds its annual Feria de la Flores y del Café (Flower and Coffee Festival) in mid-January, showcasing the region’s produce and traditional dancing.
• Costumes, music and decorated floats parade through towns across the country during March’s carnival.
• The Panama Jazz Festival, held each January in Panama City, is quickly becoming one of the best of its kind in Latin America.

Visiting Panama in April

April is a midpoint between Panama’s busy dry season and the less popular, rainier green season. Temperatures and humidity begin to rise, but this month also offers the opportunity to experience the country through the eyes of a local at several major festivals. Traffic can be busy, and availability can still be limited for some areas, so some forward planning is required.

• Boquete once more shows off its flora with its Feria de las Orquídeas (Orchid Festival) in mid-April.
• Easter is an important national holiday in Panama, celebrated with processions, services and feasting throughout the country.

Visiting Panama in May - August

From May to August, the tropical rains begin in earnest. This doesn’t always deter visitors, with many North Americans and Europeans choosing to visit Panama during their summertime. While you can expect typically short, tropical thunderstorms during this period, adrenaline-seekers can take advantage: heavier rains swell the rivers and create excellent conditions for rafting.

• The small city of Chitré and Los Santos Province celebrate Corpus Christi, and Los Santos’s idiosyncratic celebrations include costumed dancers dressed as ‘diablicos sucios’ (‘dirty devils’), a tradition dating back to colonial times.

Visiting Panama in September - November

To experience Panama with as few visitors as possible, this is the time to go. If you accept rain as an eventuality, you’ll be able to witness a number of festivals, culminating with three riotous Independence Day celebrations in November. Travel conditions are only for the hardy, with roads becoming muddy and sometimes closed for repairs due to strong thunderstorms.

• The area of Bocas del Toro celebrates its fishing heritage with the Feria del Mar (Festival of the Sea) in mid-September.
• November 3, 4 and 28 are all celebrated as national Independence Days, and see huge parties throughout the country.

Visiting Panama in December

At the year’s end, the rains give way to bright sunshine throughout most of the country. This can be one of the most rewarding times of year to visit, though visitor numbers start to pick up again leading into Christmas and New Year’s Eve. We advise avoiding the coastal beaches of Bocas del Toro , which experience unusually heavy rains in December.

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Panama Travel Guide and Reservation Services

Panama boasts a unique location that provides a truly diverse experience for visitors. It is a blessed land with a rich history, hundreds of islands and a lush rainforest. At Enjoy Panama we will guide you through every step of planning your Panamanian escape, ensuring you discover the perfect blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking nature, and blissful relaxation.

Enjoy Panama invites you to discover a variety of incredible destinations.  Our specialty is to elaborate custom itineraries and tours for all interests. We will arrange for transportation, hotels, daily and multi day tours and assist you with a discount airfare. We will also help you organize complex travel itineraries combining Panama with visits to other Central American countries.

Choose from one of our vacation packages and tours or work closely with one of our travel agents to design your perfect vacation!

Panama is situated between Colombia and Costa Rica and has a population of approximately 4.4 million. It is one of the most "globalized" countries in Latin America. It is also among the fastest growing tourism markets in Latin America. The Panama Canal, an awe-inspiring engineering marvel,  is an iconic waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, offering an unforgettable passage through history, nature, and human ingenuity.

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12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

A Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers. Experiencing this marvel of early 20th-century engineering appeals to those with a wide array of interests, from history and politics to colonial architecture and wildlife. Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers.

Panama Canal itineraries are offered by almost every cruise line. Thanks to a 2016 canal expansion project, a third set of locks can now accommodate larger vessels. It's possible to cruise the Panama Canal on ships of all sizes (from 148 guests to more than 3,000) on itineraries that range from a week in the sun to a six-month world cruise.

Some ships sail a full transit of the canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific or vice versa. These one-way journeys between Miami or Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Diego visit ports in Central America, South America, Mexico and California.

Others sail only a partial transit, entering the locks from the Atlantic and cruising into Lake Gatun before turning around and exiting again. These itineraries, sailing round-trip from Florida ports, combine the canal experience with island hopping in the Caribbean.

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The array of options means that a Panama Canal cruise experience is possible even if you're short on time or have a limited budget — and chances are high that your favorite cruise line offers one or more itineraries. Most sailings attract couples, typically retirees, but if the timing is right, a Panama Canal cruise can also be a great multigenerational experience.

Here are a dozen of the best Panama Canal cruises to consider.

Holland America's 14- to 17-night Panama Canal cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises , but the most popular itineraries span 14 to 17 nights. They offer a full transit between Fort Lauderdale or Miami and San Diego, Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia, or vice versa and are offered on multiple ships, including Koningsdam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam, Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. These sailings call on Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Longer sailings also call on several Caribbean islands.

Who should go : Holland America ships sailing a full transit are popular with retired couples who appreciate the cruise line's consistency and good value. All four ships accommodate between 1,432 and 2,650 passengers and offer signature onboard experiences that include the Greenhouse Spa and the World Stage for evening production shows. The larger Eurodam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Amsterdam feature additional specialty dining options, such as Tamarind and Nami Sushi, as well as popular music venues B.B. King's Blues Club and Billboard Onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami cruise

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, debuted in November 2023 and will transit the Panama Canal on several occasions in the next few years. The 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Dec. 13-29, 2024) and 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 8-23, 2025) transits offer luxurious all-inclusive pampering, plus port calls in Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Panama City; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Plan even further ahead for Grandeur's 22-night Miami-to-Los Angeles transit (Jan. 3-25, 2026) to enjoy additional Caribbean ports of call. From Jan. 25 to Feb. 9, 2026, the ship will sail a 16-night Panama Canal transit from Los Angeles to Miami with an itinerary similar to the 2024 and early 2025 cruises.

Who should go : This itinerary can be a wonderful splurge for a couple seeking to celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday in a memorable way on a luxurious new ship. Prices start at a hefty $10,099 per person for a spacious balcony suite, but they also include airfare, transfers, gratuities, dining and beverages, Wi-Fi and shore excursions — meaning you'll hardly have any other vacation expenses.

Related: The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Celebrity Cruises' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean cruise

For a Panama Canal experience that begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Cruises ' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean itinerary is a great option. There's still time to book the Dec. 2, 2024, cruise or the half-dozen almost identical sailings that follow through April 2025. All sailings are aboard the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and visit Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendjik, Bonaire; and George Town, Grand Cayman (Willemstad, Curacao, replaces Grand Cayman on some 2025 sailings).

Who should go : Celebrity Beyond and its Edge-series sister ships appeal to millennials, Gen Xers and young-at-heart baby boomers who appreciate innovative design, entertainment and dining options. The ships are geared toward couples or groups of friends, but families with older teens might also enjoy the onboard vibe. There are no splash pools or waterslides for younger kids, although calls on three Caribbean islands offer aquatic fun.

Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise

To explore the Panama Canal region in a relaxed manner aboard an intimate motorized sailing yacht or small ship, check out Windstar Cruises' seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary. Bookable on more than a dozen dates from November 2024 through March 2026, the itinerary is offered aboard 148-passenger Wind Star or Wind Spirit (in 2024 and 2025) and 312-passenger Star Pride (in 2026). The ship will travel from Colon, Panama, to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica (or vice versa), transiting the canal. Passengers can visit Panama City and Isla Parida in Panama, plus Golfo Dolce and Quepos (for Manuel Antonio National Park) in Costa Rica.

Who should go : Fans of small-ship cruising who enjoy a casual onboard ambience, are interested in nature and wildlife and wish to sample the regional flavors of Central America should consider a Windstar cruise . All accommodations on the sailing yachts are in snug yet well-designed staterooms with windows but no balconies. Wind Star and Wind Spirit are cozy and social four-deck ships, each featuring a pool and pool bar, a lounge and two restaurants. Star Pride is the better option for those who prefer a more spacious suitelike cabin with a balcony and a larger bathroom.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Silversea's 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles cruise

Silversea Cruises ' 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles transit aboard 596-passenger Silver Moon offers a luxurious and leisurely way to experience the Panama Canal along with top ports in four countries and 10 sea days. The itinerary includes Cartagena, Colombia (where the ship overnights); Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The sailing takes place from April 1 to 19, 2025.

Silver Moon is one of four Silversea ships to feature the S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, which combines regionally inspired dining in S.A.L.T. Kitchen, cooking classes and demonstrations in S.A.L.T. Lab with culinary-inspired shore excursions.

Who should go : Silversea's clientele is mostly mature couples with a luxury mindset and an appreciation for elevated dining with a strong regional focus. They also appreciate the cruise line's all-inclusive ease. An almost three-week itinerary such as this is likely to attract retirees seeking an extended warm-weather escape.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Carnival Cruise Line's 8-night Panama Canal cruise from Tampa

Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting. Carnival Cruise Line 's eight-night Panama Canal from Tampa itinerary offers a round-trip, partial-transit sailing aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. The ships call in Limon, Costa Rica, and George Town, Grand Cayman. Itineraries are available on several dates in 2024 and 2025, and cruise fares begin at under $900 per person.

With multiple pools (including the adults-only aft Serenity Pool), a WaterWorks aqua park, the Camp Ocean kids club and a wide array of restaurants, these ships offer enough diversions for sea-day fun, even at half the size of Carnival's newest megaships.

Who should go : Carnival's action-packed ships and affordable cruise fares appeal to families, friends and couples of all ages who enjoy a lively onboard ambience and casual complimentary dining options (including a Guy Fieri burger venue).

Related: The best cruise lines for families

Seabourn's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise

For a one-way Panama Canal transit that visits 12 countries (St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Curacao, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico) and offers 15 relaxing and luxurious days at sea, consider Seabourn 's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise. The 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn will sail from Miami to Los Angeles, departing in November 2025.

You'll enjoy beach time as you island hop in the Caribbean, while calls on Golfito and Puntarenas in Costa Rica offer access to eco-adventure. Visits to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala and Puerto Chiapas and Huatulco in Mexico feature excursions focused on pre-Spanish-colonial culture, coffee cultivation and more, while a call on Cabo San Lucas offers whale watching, deep-sea fishing or tequila tasting opportunities.

Who should go : Work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs and retirees who enjoy the luxury and refinement of small-ship cruising will enjoy this monthlong Panama Canal transit. Seabourn Sojourn pampers its guests with attentive service, elevated cuisine and all-ocean-facing suites featuring walk-in closets and spacious marble bathrooms. Seabourn's all-inclusive cruise fares also cover gratuities and complimentary wines and spirits.

Princess Cruises' 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruise

While Princess Cruises does offer several longer ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal itineraries, its popular 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruises conveniently sail round trip from Fort Lauderdale on more than 20 dates in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

What's more, you can choose between two ships: the 3,140-guest Caribbean Princess or the 3,080-guest Emerald Princess. In addition to the partial transit, these sailings call on several Caribbean islands, including Aruba, Curacao, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, as well as Cartagena, Columbia; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama.

Who should go : Couples who enjoy a ship with a more traditional vibe and families with kids who are content to participate in interactive learning activities and nature-based adventure (versus waterslides) will enjoy this cruise. Princess ships are known for their Movies Under the Stars screenings, multiple pools, specialty dining options, such as Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and The Salty Dog Gastropub, and Crooners piano bar.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Norwegian Cruise Line's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise

There's no "Panama Canal" in this itinerary's name, but Norwegian Cruise Line 's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise (Feb. 27-March 11, 2026) does a full canal transit as it sails from Miami to Lima, Peru. The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade will visit historic Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia; Panama City; Manta, Ecuador; and Trujillo and Lima in Peru.

Who should go : Couples and friends interested in experiencing not just a Panama Canal transit but some of the top coastal experiences along the Pacific coast of South America should choose this itinerary. Norwegian Jade is an older, smaller vessel that was refurbished in 2022 and features a top deck more conducive to sunning than thrill rides. The ship also has a surprising number of restaurants for its size: two main dining rooms, a buffet restaurant, a pub-style bar and grill, an Asian restaurant and an outdoor grill on a complimentary basis, plus six specialty dining venues (including a steakhouse and venues showcasing French, Italian and Japanese cuisines) for an added fee.

Oceania's 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles cruise

Oceania Cruises ' 1,200-passenger Vista — which debuted in May 2023 as the first new-build ship in Oceania's fleet in more than a decade — will offer back-to-back, 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Jan. 8-24, 2025) and Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 24-Feb. 9, 2025) itineraries. Both sailings visit six countries with port calls that include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. (The second sailing visits San Diego instead of Ensenada.)

Who should go : Oceania's newest ship offers a great compromise between a small and medium-size vessel and is ideal for those seeking a premium cruise experience with casual sophistication. Older couples especially will appreciate the ship's elegant cabin decor in soft hues of wheat and seagrass, mix of grand and intimate spaces and wide array of dining options. (Two new and noteworthy venues on Vista include Ember for inventive American cuisine and Aquamar Kitchen for wellness-focused breakfast, lunch and dinner.) A more immersive mixology program features curated cocktail menus, indulgent pairing experiences and specialty beverage carts.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Cunard's 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco cruise

Cunard's brand-new 2,996-passenger ship Queen Anne, which debuts in May 2023, will make both its first transatlantic crossing and its first Panama Canal transit on this historic 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco sailing (Jan. 9-Feb. 4, 2025). The ship will first cross the Atlantic and then overnight in New York before calling on Aruba, transiting the canal and visiting Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It will conclude with an overnight in San Francisco.

The winter transatlantic crossing might not be right for everyone, but the second half of this voyage explores warm-weather destinations with plenty of relaxing sea days for sunning, reading, taking dance lessons and enjoying expert lectures.

Who should go : British cruise line Cunard appeals mainly to older travelers who savor the line's formal traditions. This cruise is for you if you enjoy afternoon tea, dressing up for dinner, gala evenings and dancing to big-band orchestras. This particular itinerary appeals to retirees who wish to visit several cruise regions in one sailing.

Viking's 180-day World Voyage

For the ultimate cruise indulgence, Viking's 180-day World Voyage I includes a Panama Canal transit (on Christmas Day, no less) as 930-passenger Viking Sky cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City (Dec. 19, 2024-June 17, 2025). This round-the-world cruise will visit 37 countries as guests enjoy Viking Sky's modern Scandinavian interior decor, soothing LivNordic Spa, two pools (including one with a retractable roof) and six onboard restaurants. Pricing includes airfare, gratuities and complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

If this longer voyage is sold out, consider the 138-day Viking World Cruise (departing Dec. 19, 2025), also on Viking Sky. This sailing, which travels from Fort Lauderdale to London (Greenwich), visits 28 countries and transits the Panama Canal on the eighth day.

Who should go : With cruise fares that start at $79,995 and $59,995 per person, respectively, these extended adventures at sea require a luxury budget. Viking 's base clientele is mostly retired or close-to-retirement-age professionals who enjoy the cruise line's focus on educational enrichment (via onboard lectures) and serene ambience (there's no casino, and the nighttime vibe is on the quiet side).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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The best fine dining restaurant in Panama City, according to Tripadvisor reviews—plus, see the rest of the 4 best

Posted: May 15, 2024 | Last updated: May 15, 2024

Highest-rated fine dining restaurants in Panama City, according to Tripadvisor

With the advent of Big Data, it's now easier than ever to quantify what people like around the globe. And when it comes to food, Americans seem to have specific opinions. Dining brands in the U.S. have a long and storied history—and whether they're fast food, fast-casual, high-end, or super cheap, U.S. restaurants offer something for almost everyone.

What's clear about U.S. dining habits is that people love options. Restaurants across America are chock-full of variety, mixing ethnicities, food regions, and cultures into steaming melting pots of (often) fried deliciousness.

Stacker compiled a list of the highest rated restaurants in Panama City that are listed as "fine dining" on Tripadvisor . Locals are sure to see some favorite eateries and classic go-to restaurants. Keep reading to see if your favorite restaurant made the list—and to see which spots you haven't been to yet.

#4. G. Foley's

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (233 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5) - Type of cuisine: American, Seafood - Price: $$$$ - Address: 3214 W 23rd St, Panama City, FL 32405-1830 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#3. Terrace Restaurant

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (126 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: Seafood - Price: $$$$ - Address: 13741 E Emerald Coast Pkwy, Panama City Beach, FL 32461-7353 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#2. Capt. Anderson's Restaurant

- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (2,205 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5) - Type of cuisine: Steakhouse, Greek - Price: $$$$ - Address: 5551 N Lagoon Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32408-7915 - Read more on Tripadvisor

#1. Firefly

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (2,459 reviews) - Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5) - Type of cuisine: Steakhouse, American - Price: $$$$ - Address: 535 N Richard Jackson Blvd Shoppes at Edgewater, Panama City Beach, FL 32407-3616 - Read more on Tripadvisor

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When Moving Abroad, Tax Is The Biggest Concern: 5 Best Countries Where Americans Can Relocate Hassle-Free

A number of Americans are considering a move abroad, drawn by the promise of new experiences and escapes from economic pressures at home. Motivated by the thrill of adventure, better job prospects, and a desire for a safer lifestyle, one-third of U.S.-born nationals are exploring life beyond U.S. borders and not just for a vacation, but for longer stay.

If you’re in the same boat and wondering about the easiest countries to move to for tax and visa reasons, we’ve got you covered. Here are five countries that welcome Americans without a visa and are also tax-friendly.

Topping the list is Canada, a stunning country with plenty of job opportunities, friendly people, and a booming economy. Americans can live in Canada for up to 180 days without a visa and take advantage of its strong $2.2 trillion economy, the ninth largest in the world. From web development to fast-food industry jobs, there’s no shortage of work opportunities. Apart from that, Canada stands out for its diverse multiculturalism policies, stable economy, and low crime rates.

2. United Kingdom

The UK is famous for its rich art, music, and culture. Americans can live there for 180 days without a visa, and find plenty of job opportunities in this melting pot nation, especially for software developers, chefs, financial analysts, and hospitality staff. The country offers a favorable business environment and ranks highly for ease of doing business.

Located in Central America, Panama lets Americans stay for 180 days without a visa. With a resilient economy, 4.35 million people, and a GDP of $146 billion, Panama is one of the safest countries in the region. Its low inflation history and abundant job opportunities make it an attractive destination for Americans seeking a change of pace.

4. Barbados

Barbados offers tropical vibes and gorgeous beaches, where Americans can stay for 180 days without a visa. Most job opportunities are in tourism and hospitality, the island’s largest industries. Crime rates remain low, with only 21 cases reported in 2023. Barbados is known for its middle-income economy driven by tourism, tropical fruits, and clear oceans. Although not among the most stable economies, the country expects a steady economic recovery in 2024.

The Bahamas, a popular holiday spot for Americans, lets them stay visa-free for up to 240 days. Although it has a stable economy with a GDP per capita of around $31,000, finding job opportunities can be tricky for foreigners. Half of the country’s income comes from the tourism industry, and its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches are sure to enchant you.

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The 10 best beaches in Panama

Feb 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Panama's beaches offer snorkeling, surfing and lots of space to just relax © Andrea Comi / Getty Images

With a plethora of uninhabited islands, chilled Caribbean vibes on one side and monster Pacific swells on the other, Panama sits poised to deliver the very best of beach life. 

Whether you’re looking to snorkel over rainbow reefs, ride wicked waves or simply loll on golden sands, there’s something here for every type of beach bum. Here’s our list of the best beaches in Panama.

1. The San Blas Archipelago

Best beaches for snorkeling  .

While there are countless contenders for Panama’s most beautiful beaches, the sandy stretches in the San Blas Archipelago take the cake.

Also known as Guna Yala , the 365 islands are visually sumptuous and offer an opportunity to unwind like no other — the electricity supply is irregular, and there’s no internet access. 

While this pared-back existence may not be everyone’s idea of paradise, San Blas’ beaches dazzle for their powder-soft sand and crystal-clear waters that almost render snorkeling gear superfluous. 

The region is governed by the Guna (the first Indigenous group to gain political autonomy in post-colonial Latin America), so you’ll also gain insight into their culture and way of life. This is the place to enjoy a seafood-rich diet, pack a stack of good books and sink into a hammock.  

2. Cayos Zapatilla, Bocas del Toro

Best beaches to take photos .

Cayos Zapatilla is where postcards come to life. These two uninhabited islands are part of the Isla Bastimentos Marine Park in Bocas del Toro , an aesthetically pleasing archipelago on Panama’s Caribbean coast. 

“Zapatilla” is Spanish for shoes, and the cays get their name from their unique shape. From aerial photos, they look like two shoes walking in the water. Local legend says they were footprints made by God as he descended from heaven. 

Only one of the cays is open to visitors, and its entire circumference can be explored on foot in under 45 minutes. The Zapatilla Cays are wild, untouched and restaurant-free, so you’ll be tasked with bringing your own supplies. Don’t forget your camera either, as it’s nearly impossible to take a bad photo here.

3. Starfish Beach, Bocas del Toro

Best beach to swim .

What’s not to love about seeing starfish dotting the seafloor? Starfish Beach (Playa Estrella) is one of the most popular beaches in Bocas del Toro.

Situated on the main island of Isla Colon , this splendid beach has shallow, translucent waters perfect for swimming and admiring sea stars and beach bars to ensure you leave with your heart and stomach full. 

4. Playa Venao, Azuero Peninsula

Best beach to make friends  .

A long, picturesque Pacific beach, Playa Venao certainly has a lot going for it. Officially called Venado but pronounced and spelled as “Venao,” this gorgeous stretch of blackish volcanic sand has transformed from a wild beach on the southern edge of the Península de Azuero to a go-to destination. 

Though it chiefly lures surfers, many come for electronic music festivals, whale watching, stand-up paddleboarding, zip-lining, horseback riding and hiking to the La Cascada waterfall. 

Playa Venao is an intimate community with happening hostels and chic beach rentals dotted all around, as well as plenty of surf schools keen to help newbies with their first wobbly rides, including Extreme Surf Shop at El Sitio Hotel .

5. Playa Blanca, Coclé Province

Best beach resorts in panama .

A decade ago, Farallón was a fishing village filled with the ruins of the Panamanian military base destroyed during the US invasion to oust the then-military leader of Panama – Manuel Noriega. 

Today, nearby Playa Blanca (White Beach) has some of the best beach resorts in Panama, and it’s particularly attractive for all-inclusive fans. Here, you’ll find established names like Playa Blanca Beach Resort , Hotel Riu Playa Blanca and The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort Panama to call home. 

Much of the original village charm still exists in family-friendly Farallón if you wander away from the resorts. Another veritable highlight is visiting the tiny Isla Farallón by boat or jet ski from Farallón Beach.

6. El Palmar, Panamá Oeste Province

Best beach for weekend trips from panama city .

The lovely, white-sand beach of Playa El Palmar lies 14km (8.7 mi) southwest of Playa Coronado, one of the best beach towns in Panama for ex-pats near the village of San Carlos. 

Although much less developed than Coronado, El Palmar is popular with weekend families from the capital, but the atmosphere remains low-key.

Come here to find peace beneath the palm trees (it’s named in honor of the abundant tropical palms standing tall here) and for tranquil days spent swimming, flying kites, relishing riotous sunsets and surfing — beginners are welcome due to the moderate waves year round.

7. Gulf of Chiriquí, Chiriquí Province

Best beaches for diving and snorkeling .

Chiriquí is another popular Panama province for ex-pats and retirees beckoned by the cool climate and charming towns like Boquete (don’t miss out on the strawberries there). 

Some of the best beaches in the area are undoubtedly found within the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park, a collection of islands perfect for peering into the underwater world. The gulf has one of the largest reefs in the Pacific.

You can spot migrating humpback whales between July and October, traverse dense mangrove forests and hop between dreamy uninhabited islands amidst a backdrop of Volcán Barú – Panama’s highest point.

8. Playa Larga, Isla Contadora

Best beach for a bit of glamor.

Isla Contadora (Counting House Island), floating in the Gulf of Panama and connected to the capital by ferry, was once the accounting center for pearls before they were shipped to Spain . In more recent times, multimillionaires have made the island their refuge. 

However, a government crackdown on tax evasion embittered the previously sweet deal, and now you’ll see many mansions on the island standing vacant. One thing that has never changed throughout the island’s history, however, is the beautiful beaches. 

Playa Larga (Long Beach) occupies the longest stretch of sand on the island; the only eyesores are a beached ferry and an abandoned hotel behind it. 

Over the hill to the south and accessible via a well-worn path is Playa de las Suecas (Swedish Women’s Beach), where you can sunbathe in the buff – it's Panama's only legal naturist beach.

9. Santa Catalina, Veraguas Province

Best beach for surfers  .

Among Central America's top surf spots , Santa Catalina has right and left breaks comparable to Oahu ’s Sunset Beach on a good day. Playa Santa Catalina and Punta Brava are best for experienced surfers, while Playa Estero has smaller waves for those still finding their feet. 

Enjoy the Santa Catalina area while it’s still somewhat remote, undeveloped and home to some seriously wicked surf. Life here is pretty tranquil in a fishing village where skateboards rip down the main street, and kids go barefoot, but clothing is required to walk to and from the beach. 

Most non-surfers discover the area as the main springboard for day and overnight trips to Isla de Coiba and its national park , where there's outstanding scuba diving and snorkeling on offer.

10. Isla Grande, Colon Province

Best beach to experience afro-panamanian culture .

Isla Grande is one of the best beaches in Colon , Panama’s province with the largest Afro-descendant population. Palm trees and white-sand beaches form the backdrop to this lovely little island, just 15km (9.3 mi) from Portobelo on the country’s northern coast. 

A popular getaway for folks fleeing the urban grind of Panama City (which is around two hours away by car), Isla Grande is an ideal setting for snorkeling, scuba diving or simply soaking up the Caribbean island’s relaxed vibe. 

There are no roads, just a footpath along the island's southern coast backed by pastel-colored cottages, and remarkably, there’s a statue of a black Jesus Christ in the water who carefully watches over beachgoers.

This article was first published May 5, 2021 and updated Feb 26, 2024.

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Valentine, a French-Panamanian who majored in journalism and philosophy, joined Reuters in December 2021 after spending eight years in Spain. She studied at the University of Navarra and after graduation held different roles at Spanish news outlets 'El Español', 'El Confidencial', and 'La Información'. Valentine has helped boost the team's win rate, broke news on high-profile developments, and collaborated with the Spanish service and polling teams. She spends her free time producing podcasts, playing violin, trying to learn Mandarin, and searching for the best cafes in town.

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