Panama Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Panama

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With a week in Panama, you'll have time to go beyond the skyscrapers and Casco Antiguo of Panama City

1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in Panama is an excellent amount of time to explore the country's vibrant capital, hike in its highlands, and cruise between idyllic Caribbean islands. Panama City is a natural gateway, and a day or two here gives you ample time to explore its cultural highlights and the nearby Panama Canal. Then, include Valle de Antón, Boquete, or Santa Fe for time in the country's mountainous interior, while the San Blas Islands and Bocas del Toro are ideal spots for snorkeling and cruising among tropical islands.

Explore the culture and beaches of the San Blas Islands on this seven-day tour

Panama City & San Blas Islands Sailing Escape- 7 Days

Blend city sightseeing with a remote island getaway on this blissful weeklong trip to Panama. Start by checking off the highlights of Panama City with a tour of historic Casco Antiguo, a spin around the mighty Panama Canal, and a day trip into the Afro-Panamanian culture and pirate history of Portobelo. Chart your course for the San Blas Islands next, boarding a luxury catamaran for four nights of sailing around a Caribbean paradise of shallow waters and uninhabited islands.

Discover some of Panama's wildlife on this weeklong tour

Rainforests, Cloud Forests & Beaches of Panama - 7 Days

With a week to spare, you can check off Panama's jungles, cloud forests, and islands—and still have time to explore the vibrant capital. This nature-focused itinerary starts with a gastronomic walking tour of Panama City's historic center and then sends you into the highlands of Boquete to visit local honey and coffee farms. After an adventurous hike through the region's misty cloud forests, it's off to the Bocas del Toro archipelago for a cruise around its famed marine park and three days of sun, sand, and sea turtles.

Kick off your week in Panama in the capital's historic Casco Antiguo

Panama Culture & Nature Highlights Tour - 7 Days

Get a taster of Panama's cultural traditions and abundant nature with this adventurous weeklong highlights tour. Hopping between Panama City and the highland town of Valle de Antón, you'll kayak along the Panama Canal at sunset, spot exotic wildlife in the jungles of Chagres National Park, and hike to cloud forest waterfalls. Wind down on your penultimate day with a sailing trip into the San Blas Islands—swimming and beachcombing your way around the Caribbean archipelago.

Get off the beaten path as you head into the Panamanian highlands near Santa Fe

Panama Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip - 7 Days

Leave the tourist trail behind as you seek out Panama's remote corners on this seven-day self-drive adventure. Set out from Panama City to swim in the highland waterfalls of Valle de Antón and take a night hike through the rainforests of Santa Fe National Park. Continue to the Azuero Peninsula for Pacific surf, white-sand beaches, and boat tours around the unspoiled national parks of Coiba and Isla Iguana—ending back in the capital with an evening of traditional food and folklore.

Walk in the footsteps of pirates on Panama's Caribbean coast

Panama City & the Caribbean Coast: Culture, History & Nature - 7 Days

Combine Panama City with the Caribbean coast for a week of immersive culture and nature experiences. Start with an evening of traditional folklore and food in the capital, then venture into Chagres National Park to spot sloths and visit Indigenous villages. Head north to Portobelo to kayak along Caribbean waterways, explore historic Spanish forts, and discover Afro-Panamanian culinary and dance traditions. Circle back to the capital to end the trip with a scenic cruise along the mighty Panama Canal.

Watch for frogs and other amphibians on a jungle night hike in Panama's Santa Fe National Park in Alto de Piedra

10 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thanks to Panama's small size, you can visit the city, jungles, and beach in 10 days. Active travelers will enjoy a Camino Real hike and watersports in the San Blas Islands. Wildlife lovers can birdwatch in Soberania National Park and snorkel in Dolphin Bay, while those keen on culture can visit Naso communities in La Amistad International Park and learn traditional crafts in Valle de Antón. Foodies will appreciate a Panama City tasting tour and coffee and chocolate farm visits in Boquete and Bocas del Toro.

In five days you can experience island living in Bocas del Toro

5 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Panama is a great amount of time to discover the highlights of Panama City and visit one of the country's many idyllic islands. First-time travelers seeking a culture-focused tour will find Portobelo the perfect spot to delve into the country's culture, while those eager to minimize travel time stay on Taboga Island. If time well away from civilization tops your list, opt for a three-night catamaran sailing excursion around the San Blas Islands or head to the rainforest-covered Isla Bastimentos.

Hop between islands to spot birds and wildlife around Isla Bastimentos

Nature & Beaches in Panama City & Bocas del Toro - 10 Days

Bird-watchers and beach lovers can indulge their senses on this 10-day adventure through Panama's rainforests and Caribbean islands. Beginning in Panama City, you'll explore the historical Casco Antiguo and the Panama Canal before venturing to the tropical Bocas del Toro. Next, meet remote tribes in La Amistad International Park and then learn how cacao is cultivated from bean to chocolate. From snorkeling among coral reefs to observing seabirds, there's no shortage of natural wonders to behold.

Spend three nights in the Bocas del Toro islands for snorkeling, boat trips, and beach time

Panama City, Cloud Forest & Island Adventure - 10 Days

Dive into the best of Panama with this 10-day tour that hops between the busy capital, mountain cloud forests, and Caribbean islands. Explore Panama City's historic streets and kayak down the famous Panama Canal, then head to the peaceful highland town of Volcán to hike in wildlife-rich national forests and watch the sunset from the country's highest volcano. End in the idyllic Bocas del Toros archipelago to snorkel in clear waters, visit an island of monkeys, and relax on pristine beaches.

Admire colonial churches and colorful historic architecture in Panama City's historic center

Culture, History & Gastronomy in Taboga Island & Panama City - 5 Days

Get a quick taste of Panama's many charms with this captivating five-day island-and-city getaway. Start with relaxation on the tropical island of Taboga, brimming with sandy shores, colonial architecture, and exotic flavors. Then it's on to the modern skyscrapers and historic neighborhoods of Panama City, where you'll visit fascinating sites like the Panama Canal and the Biomuseo and embark on a flavorful food tour through the atmospheric Casco Antiguo.

Take in the epic views of Panama from mountain to coast

Panama Road Trip: City to Mountains to Beach - 10 Days

Road trip your way through the best of Panama on this intrepid 10-day tour. Arrive in Panama City, where you'll taste the capital's best flavors and cruise down the Panama Canal. Get behind the wheel and head to the mountainous town of Valle de Antón next for lush rainforest, spectacular wildlife, local culture, and outdoor adventure. Then, it's on to the Pacific coast to explore the beaches, islands, mangrove forests, and coral reefs around Playa Venao and Coiba National Park.

Sail your way through the tropical paradise of the San Blas Islands, Panama

Panama Hiking & Sailing Adventure - 10 Days

This adventure of two parts begins with a journey deep into Chagres National Park, where you'll hit the trail for a multiday hike along the Camino Real. Cross dense jungle, skirt winding rivers, and spot diverse wildlife before finishing among the historic forts and Caribbean coasts of Portobelo. Then it's time to switch gears and put your feet up as you head to the tropical San Blas archipelago for a four-day sailing tour of white beaches, palm trees, and an up-close look at the local Guna culture.

Panama not only has pristine beaches but rugged mountains as well

Off-the-Beaten-Path Panama - 10 Days

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy this 10-day journey through Panama, exploring national parks, secluded villages, and Caribbean islands. Starting in Panama City, you'll venture to three national parks for luscious rainforest hikes and dinners with a view. Then, cruise to the southern Golfo de Chiriquí to island hop via sailboat before visiting the mountainous Boquete region for coffee and honey tastings. Conclude your trip on Bocas del Toro's Caribbean islands to snorkel off the white sandy coasts.

Relax as you sail around the Caribbean waters of Panama's San Blas Islands

Sailing Escape to Panama's San Blas Islands - 5 Days

Set your course for the San Blas Islands on this five-day Caribbean sailing getaway. Fly into Panama City and spend a day exploring the dynamic capital of skyscrapers and cobblestones. Then it's time to board a luxury catamaran, your home for the next three nights as you sail between the palm-fringed islands of this unspoiled archipelago—swimming in shallow turquoise waters, snorkeling above a shipwreck, and experiencing the island life and culture of the Indigenous Guna people along the way.

Bask in the colorful tropical paradise of Panama's Pearl Islands

Panama City & Pearl Islands Getaway - 5 Days

Escape to Panama for five days of culture and relaxation between the bustling capital and the white-sand beaches of the Pearl Islands. Visit a national park on the shores of the iconic Panama Canal, search for whales off the coast of Isla Contadora, island hop among the 200 islands of the Pearl archipelago, and savor diverse Panamanian flavors in the historic Casco Antiguo.

Experience some of Panama's diverse culture on this five-day trip

Culture, History & Nature in Panama City & the Caribbean Coast - 5 Days

This five-day exploration of Panama's culture, history, and nature begins among the historic cobblestone streets of the capital and along the famous Panama Canal. Take a river cruise down the Río Chagres and visit a local Embera village before heading to the relaxed fishing village of Portobelo—once an integral Spanish port—to experience the best of the Panamanian Caribbean through dance, cuisine, and quality beach time.

Dive into the history and cuisine of Panama City's Casco Antigua district

History & Nature in Panama City & Bocas del Toro - 5 Days

This five-day itinerary takes you from cosmopolitan Panama City to the archaeological sites of Panama Viejo and the Caribbean jungles of Isla Bastimentos. Begin by touring food markets and tasting traditional dishes before wandering the centuries-old Panama Viejo, a historic city where the Spanish settled in the 1500s. Witness the world-renowned Panama Canal in action before spending your last few days exploring the nearby Bocas del Toro islands and snorkeling among ocean life.

Best Time of Year to Visit Panama

Panama is a great destination at any time of year, not least because it's so close to the Equator that temperatures don't change by season. However, its tropical maritime climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons, differs by region and elevation. Plus, there's a year-round calendar of festivals and events to consider when planning the best time to visit, such as the immensely popular Carnaval in Las Tablas preceding the Catholic season of Lent.

How Many Days to Spend in Panama

You can have a great getaway in Panama in as short as a long weekend if you stick to Panama City and its immediate environs. However, spending at least a week to discover a more meaningful section of this small yet diverse Central American nation is recommended. With up to 17 days, you can comfortably explore several of the country's diverse regions, experiencing the best colonial cities, island retreats, cultural highlights, and plenty of exciting activities.

Panama in December: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

December is the start of the dry season in Panama, so combine that with the major holiday of Christmas and it's a busy time of year to visit. But with great weather, you might find the peak season worth it anyway. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in December.

National Theatre of Panama in Casco Antiguo, Panama City

Panama in November: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

With relentlessly wet weather and a series of national holidays that close things down, November isn't a favorite month for travelers to visit Panama. However, if you can only visit the tropical Central American country during this month, you can still have a great time. Here's what to know about traveling to Panama in November.

Panama in October: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

One of the wettest months of the year in Panama, October isn't every traveler's ideal time to visit the tropical country. However, you can still enjoy certain activities and sights in October, despite the rain. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in October.

Starfish Beach on Bocas del Toro, Panama

Panama in September: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

September is the wet season in Panama, but if you can put up with the humidity and rain showers, there are good reasons to visit this tropical country in September—lower prices and whale watching among them. Read on to find out more about visiting Panama in September.

Panama in August: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

August is the middle of the rainy season in Panama, and while most travelers won't want to spend much time lounging on a beach during this month, there are other compelling reasons to visit this tropical country in August. Read on to learn more.

Panama in July: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Right in the middle of the rainy season, July is a quiet and cheaper time to visit Panama City. While you might not want to lounge on a beach, cultural sightseeing activities are worthwhile in any weather. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in July.

Panama in June: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

June is the rainy season in Panama, with soaring humidity and rain showers, but periods of clear weather too. If you're on a tight budget, it's not a bad time to visit the tropical country. Read on to find out more about visiting Panama in June.

Panama in May: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

May is the start of the rainy season in Panama, which stretches for about half the year. If you don't mind getting a bit wet, May is a more affordable time to visit. Read on to learn more about traveling to Panama in May.

Panama in April: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Panama's dry season comes to a soggy end later in April, but you can enjoy some idyllic beach time earlier in the month. Read on to learn more about making the most of your trip to Panama in April.

Panama in March: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

March is one of the hottest and driest months of the year in Panama. Combine this with the major festival of Easter, and March is a busy time to travel to Panama. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in March, including where to go and what to do.

Panama in February: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

February falls right in the middle of the dry, high season in Panama. It's an ideal time to hit the beaches on both the Pacific or Caribbean coasts, but you won't have the country to yourself. Read on to learn more about traveling to Panama in February.

Panama in January: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

January is peak season for travel to Panama, and with (mostly) clear skies and hot temperatures, who can blame vacationers for flocking to Panama's beaches at this time? Read on to learn more about traveling to Panama in January.

Drive between coasts on this Panama road trip

Panama Self-Drive Adventure: Coast to Coast - 17 Days

Enjoy the freedom of the open road on this 17-day self-drive journey through Panama. Discover dazzling diversity, from lush national parks and mountainous regions to the buzz of Panama City and the dreamy beaches of the Caribbean and the Pacific. Along the way, you'll hike to waterfalls, zipline through cloud forests, visit coffee farms, relax on tropical beaches, and sail to pristine island paradises.

Insider's Panama: Isla Palenque, Boquete, Portobelo & Panama City - 10 Days

Discover the quieter corners of Panama on this 10-day journey between cities, mountains, and coasts. Escape to an island paradise in the Gulf of Chiriquí, explore the lush coffee region of Boquete, and immerse yourself in Caribbean culture in the laid-back fishing village of Portobelo. Your getaway ends in the capital of Panama City, where you'll tour the historic Casco Viejo and watch ships transit the famous Panama Canal.

Panama Island Tour: Panama City, Pearl Islands & Bocas del Toro - 10 Days

This 10-day tour of Panama takes you from the city to the islands. Visit the world-famous Panama Canal and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Casco Viejo in Panama City. Then, venture to the Pearl Islands for some whale watching, hiking, and beach relaxation. Return to the city for more exploration, and head to Bocas del Toro for a few more relaxing free days by the beach enjoying nature walks and the surrounding waters. Spend a bit more time in Panama City to close out your visit.

Ultimate Panama Road Trip: Panama City, Gamboa, Pacific Coast & More - 15 Days

Panama is a great place for a scenic and adventurous road trip. In 15 days, this self-drive itinerary will take you around the most notable regions of the country. Begin in Panama City, then hit the road to discover the jungle, beautiful mountains, charming villages, and pristine islands. Some stops along the way include Gamboa, El Valle de Anton, Boquete, and the Pacific Coast.

Panama's Pacific Coast: Panama City, Playa Reina, & Santa Catalina - 10 Days

This 10-day trip to Panama’s Pacific Coast is the perfect mix of exploration and relaxation. Begin in Panama City, where you’ll tour the iconic Panama Canal, Casco Viejo, and take a day trip to visit the indigenous Emberá. Then, rent a car and drive to the beach—you’ll stay in Playa Reina for two nights, where you can observe turtles nesting and hatching. Next, enjoy some surfing and downtime in Santa Catalina, followed by a whale-watching excursion, before you return to Panama City.

Look for a variety of birds including the scarlet-rumped tanager

Panama Rainforest Adventure - 8 Days

Ideal for hikers, birders, and lovers of wild nature, this off-the-beaten-path trek takes you to Darien National Park—an ecologically-diverse rainforest at the tip of Central America. In addition to rare species of flora and fauna, the region is full of history and native people who are happy to display their artistry and hospitality. Start and end the trip in cosmopolitan Panama City for a dose of urban culture.

Panama Multi-Sport Adventure - 11 Days

Get ready for an active trip to an undiscovered region of Panama that combines beautiful landscapes, exuberant nature, and pleasant weather. On this 11-day multi-sport itinerary, you'll fly through a cloud forest, raft along a river, and trek up a volcano where you can witness two oceans from above before camping under the stars—an unforgettable experience!

Panama History & Nature Tour - 8 Days

Harken back to the days when Panama was rich with colonial ports and pirate invasions on this 8-day itinerary. Starting in the capital, you’ll explore historic neighborhoods, see the Panama Canal by train, and visit ruins of a UNESCO-listed fort. Finish the trip with a catamaran ride in the same waters as the pirates once sailed. You’ll also hike in two national parks laden with exotic birds, monkeys, and tropical plants.

Best of Panama City - 7 Days

Melding colonial history and bold modernity, the cosmopolitan capital of Panama is a thriving hub in Central America. With this active weeklong itinerary, you'll explore the city's best neighborhoods, boat through the Panama Canal, and take day-trips to nearby national parks and indigenous villages. Finish with a ferry to the Pearl Islands in the Gulf of Panama for a dose of beachy relaxation.

The Wonders of Panama - 7 Days

Panama is a beautiful country brimming with history and diversity, and this 7-day itinerary offers an exciting sampling of its many charms. You'll explore the capital, from its quaint colonial streets to its famous canal to its more modern attractions. Then venture out into the countryside, where you'll learn about the customs of indigenous locals, meet rainforest wildlife, and tour the Caribbean beach town of Portobelo.

Family Adventure in Panama - 7 Days

Discover the colorful streets and magnificent beaches of Panama on this week-long, family-friendly trip. Spend a few days in Panama City, where you'll sail down the Panama Canal and explore the city's vibrant, historic neighborhoods. Then head to the Caribbean paradise of Bocas del Toro for beach time and wildlife encounters before ending your journey back in the capital.

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