places to visit in the country of panama

The 8 best places to visit in Panama

Dec 1, 2023 • 6 min read

Experience the best of Panama with our guide to the top places to visit © Matthew Micah Wright / Getty Images

There’s so much more to Panama  than its world-famous waterway.

Yes, its canal is a whopper – and something you won't want to miss – but this Central American country offers lots more besides. With myriad  islands , wildlife-rich tropical forests and miles of pristine coastline on two oceans, it'll keep you under its spell for weeks.

Squeezed between Costa Rica and Colombia, this narrow land bridge and biological corridor may be compact, but it packs a lot in.

From a cosmopolitan capital filled with state-of-the-art skyscrapers to the splendid isolation of the  Guna Yala Archipelago , there’s a good chance you’ll want to extend your trip here. Especially once you hear about its adrenaline-fueled adventures in the highlands around  Boquete and the island hopping opportunities in  Bocas del Toro .

These are the best places to visit in Panama.

1. Panama City

Central America’s most stylish capital is a tale of three cities. Downtown is a skyscraper-packed hub of international finance, glitzy shopping malls and upscale restaurants. Across the bay, tombstone-like ruins are all that’s left of the original city,  Panama Viejo , which was sacked by pirates in 1671.

Next comes  Casco Viejo , which, after an ambitious restoration, has become the city’s hippest neighborhood. Boutique spots like the  American Trade Hotel and stylish rooftop restaurants and bars such as  Casa Casco fill the pastel-colored colonial mansions that line its cobblestone streets.

Planning tip:  To escape the urban jungle, hike the trails of the  Parque Natural Metropolitano , or cycle along the scenic Amador Causeway, where the striking Frank Gehry-designed  BioMuseo celebrates the natural and cultural history of the isthmus.

2. Panama Canal

The world’s most famous shortcut, the  Panama Canal – dubbed “the big ditch” – has been a vital trade route between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans since it opened in 1914. An awe-inspiring feat of engineering, this artificial marvel operates around the clock and moves more than half a billion tons of goods a year.

Planning tip:  The easiest place to watch the canal’s mechanics in action is from the viewing platforms at the four-story  Miraflores Visitor Center – try to time your visit with the arrival of a mega-ship, and don’t miss the 3D movie. You can get even closer to the locks on a partial (six to seven hours) or full (10 to 12 hours) canal transit with  Ancon Expeditions .

Adrenaline junkies should head to the highland town of Boquete , where adventurers have their pick of rappelling, rock climbing and rafting. From the foothills of Volcán Barú, you can hike up to the summit for a show-stopping sunrise, or whizz above the slopes on a zip line.

Hiking along its misty cloud forest trails in search of hidden waterfalls and elusive quetzals, shrouded in greenery and serenaded by birdsong, is a must.

After sweltering in Panama City, Boquete is – quite literally – a breath of fresh air, where shade-grown coffee plantations stretch to the horizon in an undulating patchwork of greens. Sample Panama Geisha, one of the world’s most expensive cups of joe, then feast on farm-to-table fusion fare at Italian-run  Retrogusto .

4. Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro have something for everyone. Simultaneously a backpacker party hub, couples’ chilled-out Caribbean paradise, and expat enclave, the three main islands and scores of uninhabited islets also boast some of Panama's finest beaches .

Bocas Town on  Isla Colón is party central. Everything from hostels to handicraft stores is housed in brightly painted, charming clapboard buildings.

Go starfish spotting at Playa Estrella, where the calm waters are perfect for snorkeling. Then kick back over killer cocktails and just-caught fish at over-the-water  El Último Refugio .

Planning tip:  For jungle-backed beaches, coral-fringed cays and magical surf breaks at  Wizard Beach , island hop to  Isla Bastimentos . Home to a namesake  marine park , this important conservation area contains mangroves, monkeys, crocodiles and caimans, among other wild things, with superb snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities to match.

5. Comarca de Guna Yala (San Blas Islands)

Indulge your inner Robinson Crusoe on this string of jewel-like tropical islands off Panama’s Caribbean coast – all swaying palms, icing-sugar-soft white sand and azure water.

The  San Blas archipelago has an island for every day of the year (plus a few to spare). This semi-autonomous region is home to the Indigenous Guna people, who fiercely protect their culture and customs – including molas , the hand-embroidered textiles designed and sewn by Guna women. 

With their no-frills cane-and-palm-thatch cabañas, the island lodges are all owned and run by families from the more densely populated village-islands, such as Playón Chico.

Planning tip: The San Blas Islands offer the chance to disconnect from the world – we're talking no internet, no TVs and no telephones – so be prepared to take a step away from your tech for the duration of your visit. Instead, idle your time away, sunning, swimming, snorkeling and stargazing.

6. Santa Catalina

A fishing village turned surfer haunt,  Santa Catalina in the Gulf of Chiriquí has some of the best year-round breaks in Central America – no wetsuit required.

Laid-back fishers sell the day's catch from the shade of a mango tree: expect sushi with a tropical twist. And if you aren’t there to surf, this is the jumping-off point for  Parque Nacional Coiba .

Planning tip:  Visit this former penal colony, dubbed "Panama’s Galápagos", at the right time of year  and you can swim alongside the gentle giants of the sea: whale sharks (December to April) and humpback whales (August to November), along with whitetip reef sharks, rays, hawksbill turtles and shoals of technicolor fish. To access the park, you’ll need to book a tour in town.

7. Portobelo

Strolling around the unhurried streets of  Portobelo , it’s hard to believe this was once one of the most important ports in the Caribbean, where treasure plundered from the Incas was shipped back to Spain.

The ruins of often-sacked fortresses remain, with Fuerte San Jerónimo  the most popular. The stone  Customs House , once piled high with Peruvian gold, stands out among the clapboard houses. 

Portobelo’s African roots stretch to the Congo and spaces like  Casa de la Cultura Congo help keep traditional art and music alive.

Planning tip:  Visit during the two spirited (and spiritual) festivals that celebrate the vibrant local culture: the colorful and rhythmic biannual  Festival de Diablos y Congos ; and October’s Festival del Cristo Negro, when the Black Christ – a life-size wooden statue steeped in myth and legend – is removed from  Iglesia San Felipe  and paraded around town.

8. Península de Azuero

Farming, folklore and fiestas are the lifeblood of the  Azuero Peninsula , the country’s cultural heartland, bordered by the Gulf of Chiriquí to the west and the Gulf of Panamá to the east.

Las Tablas puts on the country’s largest and loudest Carnaval celebration: expect flamboyant costumes, exuberant music and energetic dancing.

Further south, the streets of Pedasí are lined with well-preserved colonial buildings. Playa Venao, a golden sweep of sand with world-class surf, is another 34km (21 miles) south.

And for wildlife spotting, the reserves of  Isla Iguana and  Isla Cañas – one of the few places on the planet where olive ridley sea turtles go to nest in large numbers – are just short boat hops away. 

This article was first published Apr 17, 2022 and updated Dec 1, 2023.

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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.

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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 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.

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.

• Spend some time on the pristine waters by kayaking or snorkeling, a perfect spot for both these activities.
• Find one located around the Island for the most ideal location to sunbathe.
• Explore through the lush jungles on foot, or take a squad for more adrenaline rush speed.

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.

My must-do highlights…

• A main must-do is to venture along the Lost Waterfalls Trail, where you will discover three breathtaking natural showers.
• Climb up to the highest peak in Panama, Volcan Baru National Park, for the most impressive views overlooking the ocean.
• Make sure to take some Instagrammable pictures of the beautiful surrounding landscape.

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.

• Climb up to the top of Panama Rainforest Discovery Center’s spiral staircase for a bird’s eye view above the canopy.
• For those who love a scenic hike, take the Plantation Road trail to find several waterfall viewpoints and exotic tropical plants.
• Go for a swim in the natural pools of the El Charco Trail, surrounded by picnic spots and 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.

• Get your adrenaline pumping by going on the exciting zipline overlooking the forest.
• For an exciting adventure, take the hanging bridges tour, Central America’s second longest and highest.
• Go relaxed by strolling through the town center for an afternoon of shopping.

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.

• Ride some of the best waves in Central America at La Punta Beach.
• Watch the sun go down at La Coquita, well-known for its brilliant black sand shadows at night.
• Kayak over to the white sand beach on Isla Catalina and hike 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.

• Stroll through the vibrant town where the quiet Spanish-settled village is filled with colorful houses.
• Spend the day sunbathing on Playa Restinga and walk along the sandbar to Isla El Morro during low tide.
• Walk to the viewpoint at Cerro de la Cruz for 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! 

Remember the jaguars and ocelots that freely roam in Coiba National Park. You may spot a scarlet macaw if you are lucky since they regularly dwell there. 

• The highlight is in its name: catch a magnificent sunset over the coastline with a cocktail. 
• Cool down by swimming in the Pacific Ocean with an entrance point in Cobia National Park nearby.
• Wander along the long shore to wind down as the day ends.

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! 

• Grab lunch at the local supermarket while spending a day by the canyons.
• If you’re looking for a thrill, jump off the natural rock formations into the aqua-colored waters.
• Swim through the crystal-clear canyon that stretches 40 meters long.

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

• On a day when the ocean is calm, hire a paddleboard for a fun way to explore the coast.
• Explore this petite city’s fishing village and surrounding areas by hiring a bike.
• Enjoy kite surfing; the ocean conditions 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 artifacts 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. 

• Go snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters to discover the beautiful underwater world.
• Capture an Insta-worthy shot next to one of the picturesque palm trees and surrounding landscape.
• Slow down and relax along the golden sands by walking or sunbathing.

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! 

• Indulge in delicious cuisine from around the world while watching live entertainment at one of the restaurants.
• Watch for when the next festival is so you can attend and embrace the local culture.
• Lay out along the beach’s shores to soak up the marvelous rays of the sun.

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.

• Sip on refreshing cocktails at The OC Bar & Lounge with a view overlooking the Caribbean Ocean.
• Take a boat tour around the coastline to observe the beautiful vegetation landscape from a different perspective. 
• Taste freshly made seafood at one of the restaurants located around this location.

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.

• Wander through the streets of Casco Viejo to admire the spectacular architecture through the Old Town Quarter.
• Check out the large Artisan Market filled with handcrafted goods, perfect for a memorable souvenir.
• Visit Plaza De La Independencia, surrounded by an array of shopping boutiques and 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 and cattle ranching.

• Explore the untouched areas to discover the natural beauty and hidden gems.
• Dance the night away after a day of searching on the ocean with one of the fabulous beach parties.
• Slow down and relax with a yoga retreat hosted by 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. 

• Have your camera ready to capture the most breathtaking shots along this trail.
• Stop and take in the picturesque scenic views overlooking 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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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Panama

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

While visitors to Panama may come for the Panama Canal, they stay for everything else. Known as the “Crossroads of the Americas,” Panama is not only the geographical point where North America meets South America but also where the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans meet in the country’s famed canal.

Not only is the country known for its miles of coastlines and beaches, but it’s also home to active volcanoes, tropical jungles, cascading waterfalls, and mountainous highlands.

In addition to these spectacular tourist attractions, Panama has a vibrant culture that’s an electrifying mix of cosmopolitan growth and indigenous traditions. From the historic old towns to the rural villages, it’s easy to get lost in the unique atmosphere that surrounds the region. If you’re looking for a country that’s overflowing in natural beauty and influenced by centuries of ancient cultures, then look no further than these things to do in Panama!

15. Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park

Stretching down the Pacific coast of Panama is the Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park. With a mix of sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, and rugged forests, this unspoiled natural wonder is an outdoor enthusiasts dream.

You’ll have a world of activities at your fingertips, including snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and swimming. In addition, the national park is teeming with wildlife. Besides howler monkeys and green turtles, you’ll also get the chance to see humpback whales, dolphins, and manta rays beneath the ocean’s surface.

14. Amador Causeway

There’s always something happening on the bustling Amador Causeway. This 3.5-mile promenade snakes through the Panama Canal and connects the four main Causeway Islands to the mainland.

Not only will you be surrounded by gourmet restaurants and world-class museums, but you’ll also get to enjoy some of the best views of the Panama Canal and the Pacific Ocean. If you’re looking to burn a few calories during your trip, you can also take advantage of the provided bicycling and jogging path.

13. Soberania National Park

The lush, tropical atmosphere of Soberania National Park makes it one of the best natural attractions in Panama. Located on the banks of the Panama Canal, this rainforest is one of the best places in the world for birdwatching. In total, the park is home to over 500 different bird species, as well as over 100 different types of mammals.

Besides wildlife, you’ll also have the chance to visit the Embera Indians, one of the last remaining tribes in Panama. They welcome visitors to their village to learn more about their traditions and authentic, rural lifestyle.

12. Surfing in Santa Catalina

The charming fishing village of Santa Catalina is a surfer’s dream. The perfect barreling waves and easy to access surf break make it an ideal place for beginners as well as advanced surfers. Punta Brava and San Pedrillo boast powerful left and right breaks, while the calm waters at El Estero are great for first-timers.

Although it’s considered to be the best surfing destination in Central America , its remote location means it’s relatively untouched by mass tourism. Even if you surf, you can still enjoy the relaxing beaches and breathtaking landscape.

11. Darien National Park

No trip to Panama would be complete without a visit to Darien National Park. Connecting the two continents of North and South America , this national park is one of the few places where you can experience multiple ecosystems and habitats in one place. Here, you can trek through mangrove forests, hike along rocky coastlines, and explore dense tropical jungles.

Besides the diverse array of habitats, Darien National Park is also home to an abundance of wildlife. Spider monkeys, giant anteaters, jaguars, and even the endangered Central American Tapirs all roam wild through the park.

The colorful island of Taboga is one of Panama’s most beloved gems. From the green rolling hills to the white-sandy coastline, Taboga attracts visitors looking for a blissful escape from the mainland.

Spend the day wandering through the pastel-colored village, or trek up the Cerro de la Cruz summit for dramatic views over the entire Gulf of Panama. If you’re looking for a bit of relaxation, you can also chill underneath the swaying palms or treat yourself to a tropical drink at one of the many beach bars.

9. Coffee Tasting in Boquete

Get your caffeine fix with a visit to the mountainous town of Boquete. Located in the highlands next to the ominous Baru Volcano, Boquete has fertile soil, making it ideal for growing coffee. During your visit, you’ll find dozens of plantations and farms where you can sample this flavorful, award-winning bean.

Don Pachi, Hacienda La Esmeralda, and Finca Lerida are just a few of the must-see plantations and farms. If you’re lucky, you might also get to sample the rare Esmeralda coffee beans. Selling for an astounding $140 per pound, Esmeralda coffee is the rarest and most expensive bean in the world!

8. Pearl Islands

Situated off the coast of Panama are the Pearl Islands. Although there are over 250 islands in total, most tourists choose to spend their time on Contadora or Isla Sabago. The majority of the islands are unnamed and uninhabited.

Although many people come for a bit of sun and relaxation, the Pearl Islands offer plenty of outdoor activities. Thanks to the cobalt blue waters and tropical marine life, snorkeling and diving are two of the most popular activities. Whale watching around the islands is also a possibility, especially during the breeding season.

7. El Valle

The El Valle volcano sits along the Central American Volcanic Arc in the center of Panama. It has been over 200,000 years since its last eruption, making it a safe and popular place for hiking, walking, and horseback riding.

In the heart of the volcano’s crater is the El Valle de Anton, a popular vacation spot for locals and tourists alike. This small town caters to both city dwellers and nature lovers. Besides exploring the volcano’s hiking trails and waterfalls, you can also visit the town farmers market, geological museum, and butterfly house.

6. Volcan Barú

Easily one of Panama’s most recognizable landmarks, Volcan Barú looms over mountainous highlands in the North. At 11,401-feet high, the active Volcan Barú is the tallest mountain in all of Panama.

There are numerous hiking trails along the sides of the volcano. One of the most popular things to do in Panama is hike the leisurely Los Senderos Quetzales trail, as it gives hikers the opportunity to spot the rare and colorful Quetzal bird. However, if you’re up for the challenge, it’s also possible to trek to the summit of Volcan Barú. From the top, you’ll have panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean as well as the Caribbean Sea.

5. Coiba Island

The rural Coiba Island is located off the northwestern coast of Panama. Not only is it Central America’s largest island, but it’s also part of the Coiba National Park. Between the uninhabited beaches and the colorful coral reefs, it’s one of the best natural attractions in the country.

Scuba diving and fishing are two of the most popular activities to do around Coiba Island. The ocean is teeming with tropical fish and vibrant sea life, which can easily be seen through the translucently clear waters. Since it’s protected by the Gulf of Chiriqui, Coiba Island is also a safe haven for humpback whales, sea turtles, dolphins, and marlins.

4. Bocas del Toro

The fascinating Bocas del Toro archipelago has it all. The nine different islands are home to two national parks, multiple white-sand beaches, colorful Caribbean style houses, and friendly locals. No matter what you’re interested in seeing, Bocas del Toro has plenty of things to do.

Spend the day soaking up the sun on Starfish Beach, or marvel at rare, tropical birds on Bird Island. If you’re looking for something more cultural, you can simply wander through the charming town of Bocas, mingling with the locals and enjoy the laid-back Caribbean vibes.

3. Guna Yala Islands

Beauty and culture collide on the islands of Guna Yala. Comprised of 365 individual islands, Guna Yala (formerly known as San Blas) caters to travelers interested in beaches, hiking, wildlife viewing, and snorkeling. Only 40 islands are inhabited, mainly by indigenous people known as Gunas.

Although many people just visit the islands on a day trip, it’s also possible to spend the night. You’ll find ecolodges and rural cabanas that are privately owned by the Gunas themselves. For a truly authentic experience, consider staying in one of the hand-built thatched cottages in the jungle.

2. Casco Viejo

Despite its small size, the historic Casco Viejo is easily one of the most unique neighborhoods in Panama City . Covering just four avenues, Casco Viejo is lined with colonial houses, top-of-the-line coffee shops, and tropical-themed bars.

As you wander through the narrow brick alleys, you’ll encounter beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th-centuries. Take a peek inside the Catedral Metropolitana, which is located next to the central Plaza de la Independencia. You can also visit the ruins of the Arco Chato church, admire the artwork at the Museum of Religious Art, or catch a show at the grand National Theater.

1. Panama Canal

Flowing 51-miles through the center of the country, the Panama Canal connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific ocean using a series of canal locks. This human-made waterway was built in the early 1900s and is considered to be one of the most complex engineering projects of the last 150 years.

If you’re planning a visit to the Panama Canal, then make sure to stop by the Miraflores locks. Here, you’ll find a museum, restaurant, and viewing platform that offers a birds-eye view of the canal. The best time to visit is before 11 am, where you’ll see cargo ships and boats passing through the locks.

Map of Things to Do in Panama

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Reader interactions.

August 31, 2019 at 6:16 pm

My wife and I went this July for our wedding anniversary to Panama we had an awesome time. The Panama Canal is one of the best experience to do. But my favorites is Monkey Island. Those monkeys are so cute and adorable not to mention hilarious

June 7, 2017 at 10:27 am

@Kristin from MN, I have not taken a ferry to those places but I do know that motion sickness can occur when move in anything that can rock around or shake.

September 29, 2014 at 11:35 am

Has anyone taken the ferry to the Pearl Islands or the boat to San Blas? We will be there this winter. I want to go to both of those places, but I’m very prone to motion sickness. Have you heard if people that suffer motion sickness tend to get sick on the ferry/boat rides to these islands? Thanks!

August 7, 2014 at 6:53 pm

So for someone who is from the Caribbean where sun, sea and sand is an everyday occurence, is there anything else to see besides the Panama canal?

August 8, 2014 at 1:46 am

@Summer, you could visit Casco Viejo in Panama City, soak in the hot springs in Boquete, hike Volcan Baru, see also https://www.touropia.com/best-places-to-visit-in-panama/

March 10, 2014 at 10:48 pm

Pearl Islands It’s so beautiful!

January 26, 2014 at 10:45 am

I would love to visit the Sab Blas Islands! It’s so beautiful!

January 14, 2014 at 7:25 am

Hi everyone, If you are with family wanting to spend a day out on a sailing boat and spend the day at isla de Taboga, I know a great deal (55$/pers i think) lunch and drinks included!

January 7, 2014 at 1:55 am

Santa Catalina,Pearl islands and Volcan Baru are most attractive places in panama. I decided whenever i have one week vacation, Really wanna to visit these places..

December 17, 2013 at 7:04 pm

I’ve been guiding tours in Panama the last two years, and yes! This is a real top list of hot places to visit in Panama. I do recommend diving, snorkeling, fishing, trekking and hiking activities. You’ll find adventurous spots at the capital, Panama city, and into the all country.

Thanks for sharing quality info!

November 18, 2013 at 5:10 pm

i’m going there soon! Its seems beautiful

July 6, 2013 at 1:32 pm

i live in panama

September 18, 2012 at 4:50 am

It’s a toss up between Panama and Cuba for my next big trip – I think Cuba’s winning though. Is Panama just lots of beaches?

August 14, 2012 at 2:05 pm

I remember visiting Panama about 5 years ago and was one of the most beautiful places to visit.

July 24, 2012 at 9:44 am

I would like to visit one of the tiny San Blas Islands and experience loneliness like Robinson Crusoe.

May 26, 2012 at 12:05 am

You are covering all the beautiful places of central America and best part of this that you are also providing brief description of all the places.

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11 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Panama

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law loves exploring the islands, beaches, and history of Panama.

Panama's small geographic area packs in a diverse range of landscapes, interesting towns and cities, and a myriad of vacation possibilities. Beautiful beaches and islands can be found along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, and the mountainous interior is home to coffee plantations, small towns, waterfalls, wildlife, and some wonderful hiking trails.

In Panama City, you'll find a modern metropolis with shopping, dining, and an assortment of tourist attractions and things to do, including the country's most famous site, the Panama Canal.

Most first-time visitors head to Casco Viejo, the Old Town, to soak up the atmosphere and see a little of the city's history. But for most visitors, Panama City is just a starting point before they head out on adventures to other parts of the country.

For ideas to help plan which places to visit on your trip, see our list of things to do in Panama.

1. See Ships Transiting through the Panama Canal

2. surf, dive & soak up the beaches of bocas del toro, 3. watch the sun go down on the sunset coast, 4. hiking & nature in boquete, 5. wander the narrow streets of casco viejo in panama city, 6. escape to the san blas islands, 7. surf at santa catalina & day trip to parque nacional coiba, 8. swim in the river at los cangilones, 9. kitesurf at punta chame, 10. enjoy a beach vacation at playa coronado, 11. get off the beaten path in santa fe and san francisco, map of attractions & things to do in panama, tips for renting a car & driving in panama, best time to visit panama.

Highlight : Massive ships piled high with colorful containers moving slowly through the locks

Panama's most famous attraction is by far the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Watching a massive ship, piled high with colorful containers, gliding quietly into the locks reveals the true enormity of this great feat of engineering. Taking a boat tour through the canal gives you even more perspective.

If you want to simply see the Panama Canal, the best place to do this is at the Miraflores Locks , about 25 minutes from downtown Panama City. You can see the canal from the five-story visitor center, complete with a small museum, a restaurant, and an IMAX theater in a separate building.

Highlights : Wonderful beaches, unique townsite, and cheap accommodations

Bocas del Toro is Panama's main beach destination in the Caribbean. This collection of low-lying tropical islands, not far from the border with Costa Rica, is known for its outstanding soft-sand beaches lapped by crystal-clear, azure-colored waters.

The atmosphere here is beyond relaxed, with many young travelers coming to the area and, in some cases, staying for months or years. Things to do in Bocas del Toro include surfing, swimming, diving, or just lazing on the beach. Activities are generally cheap.

Although you can find luxury resorts with infinity pools, this is a budget-friendly destination, frequented by mainly singles or couples. The main town, also called Bocas del Toro or simply Bocas Town, is located on Isla Colon .

The town itself is not known for beaches, but you can find lovely stretches of sand on other parts of the island or by taking a boat to nearby islands. Some of the most popular are Bluff Beach, Starfish Beach, and Red Frog Beach.

Bocas del Toro has an airport on Isla Colon, which is how many travelers get to the islands. If you are exploring Panama by car or public transport, most people come here after a stop in Boquete. From Boquete, you can drive about 3.5 hours over the mountains to the town of Almirante, and from here, take a 25-minute boat ride to the town of Bocas del Toro.

Boat trip pricing is set by the government, and all boats charge the same amount. Parking in Almirante is safe and not expensive. Don't worry about finding the parking lots, touts will flag you down and direct you to their preferred lot, thereby earning themselves a small commission. This is a good investment if you are not familiar with the town.

Highlights : A low-key destination away from the crowds, stunning beaches

One of the very few places in Panama where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, the Sunset Coast is an undiscovered area with small towns, wide open beaches, and a small number of lodges and inns where you can get away from the tourist scene.

This is rural Panama, home to rolling hills, small villages, family farms, and huge beaches lined by palms and forests. Foreign tourists are not plentiful the way they are in other areas of the country, and many of the visitors are Panamanian. The road down to the Sunset Coast from the Pan-American Highway is twisty and has a few potholes to dodge, but every mile takes you further off the beaten track.

This area is also popular with surfers. The wide-open beaches take the brunt of the Pacific Ocean rollers, and it's rare that you'll need to share a wave. If you want a beach all to yourself, this is the place to come.

Highlights : Waterfalls, hummingbirds, coffee plantations, hiking trails through the mountains

The mountain town of Boquete has a wonderful climate, where you can escape the sometimes oppressive heat of the coast and lower areas. The town is relaxed and safe, catering to expats and people escaping the winters in northern climates, and local Panamanians looking for a weekend getaway.

Some of the appeal here is the variety of good restaurants, as well as a mix of quality hotels and luxury inns. It's also one of Panama's most important coffee-growing areas, and known as a hot spot for nature and wildlife, particularly hiking and birdwatching.

Having a vehicle here is quite handy for touring the surrounding mountains and reaching trailheads and nearby sites, but you can also arrange tours with transportation to the coffee plantations.

One of the best short drives in Panama leaves from the outskirts of Boquete. This scenic loop of about 15 miles passes the main hiking trails, a beautiful river, an abandoned castle, and waterfalls. The road also provides amazing views down the valley and up the slopes of Volcan Baru.

Along the loop is Finca Lerida Lodge , with an outstanding restaurant. It's also one of the best places to visit to see birds in the area. This makes a nice lunch stop, where you can watch the non-stop hummingbird action.

Serious hikers can arrange to hike up the Baru volcano, leaving in the wee hours of the morning with a guide to be at the summit for sunrise. You can also tackle hikes like the popular Quetzal Trail (Sendero Los Quetzales), leaving from nearby Volcan Baru National Park, or one of several waterfall hikes off the loop road.

If you want to experience a little nature here without leaving Boquete, plan a stay at the quaint Boquete Garden Inn and enjoy breakfast outside while you watch the colorful birds dining at the feeders.

Highlights : A compact area of restored 18th and 19th-century buildings, good dining options

History surrounds you as you stroll through the narrow streets of Casco Viejo, also known as the Old Town. See colorful buildings, historic ruins, and great views out over the bay towards the gleaming towers of modern Panama City. This area is compact, and all the sights are within an easy stroll of one another.

In the evening, the buildings and ruins are creatively lit up, and restaurants set up tables and chairs on the sidewalks. Casco Viejo is ideal for a romantic getaway, with boutique hotels located in restored buildings dating from the 18th or 19th century.

Highlights : Beautiful tropical islands best visited via luxury sailing charters

If you truly want to get off the beaten track and have a taste of adventure, a trip to the San Blas Islands might be just what you're looking for. Postcard-perfect islands with palm trees and crystal-clear water gently lapping the white-sand beaches are what this area is all about.

The most luxurious way to explore these islands is on a sailboat charter. Your captain will chart a course through this spectacular region, stopping at unbelievably beautiful spots. The boats are luxury catamarans, and cruises are anywhere from three to 21 days in length. All meals and beverages are included, and dining under the stars while the waves gently rock the boat is sublime.

If your budget doesn't allow for a crewed catamaran, economical options are available. However, you need to be prepared to bring out your inner Robinson Crusoe, as the accommodations are generally on the rustic side.

The only way to stay on these idyllic islands is to book a package with the local indigenous Guna people, which includes transport to, from, and around the islands, very rustic accommodation (no A/C), and three basic meals a day. This is a totally off-the-grid type of trip, so prepare accordingly, physically and mentally.

Highlights : Fun and funky town with a chill vibe, whale sharks off of Isla Coiba

One of Panama's top surf destinations on the Pacific Coast is Santa Catalina. This small but growing town has a laid-back surfer feeling about it. Small guesthouses and hotels, and funky restaurants, force you to slow down and relax.

If you aren't here to surf, great snorkeling and scuba diving spots are nearby, and horseback tours through the surrounding countryside are good options for those not interested in getting wet.

One of Santa Catalina's main draws is Isla Coiba . This lush island, now Coiba National Park , is almost untouched and is considered a biodiversity hot spot, with close to 200 bird species, crocodiles, turtles, and snakes.

Scuba diving here is very popular due to the enormous whale sharks that frequent the area. These gentle giants are curious creatures and enjoy interacting with divers. Tours to Isla Coiba can be arranged in Santa Catalina.

Highlights: A chance to hang with the locals and to practice your cliff jumping

One of the most fun things to do near Boquete is to visit the local swimming hole at Los Cangilones. Set at a lower elevation than Boquete, the climate here is much warmer, and on hot days, you'll find a fun scene, complete with music, barbecues, and food vendors. Panamanian families come from far and wide to splash and jump into the cool river water.

In this unique geological place, the river narrows into a gorge before opening up again in a shallow pool at the bottom. Daring adults and older kids jump off the edges into the slowly moving waters and then float down to the bottom, climb out, and do it all over again.

Youngsters and visitors who are looking for something a little milder can wade into the shallow waters where the gorge opens up. The walls vary in height, so it depends on how brave you are and how high you want to go.

Don't be deceived, the walls are actually quite a bit higher than you may think. The clear water below distorts your height reckoning. Fortunately, lifeguards are on duty and keep a close eye to make sure the jumpers resurface.

There is a small fee to enter the park, and it is a short walk from the parking areas down to the river.

Highlights : Shallow water, massive beach, consistent wind perfect for kiteboarding

Although it's not on most travelers' itineraries, Punta Chame is home to one of the nicest beaches in Panama and it's also the best place for kiteboarding in the country. Set on a peninsula jutting out into the Pacific Ocean, this area is literally all about the beach.

The seemingly endless stretch of sand here is wide, and the water, warm and shallow. This gives kiters who are learning the distinct advantage of being able to stand up in the water to collect themselves as they work with their kite.

The winds are side onshore and quite consistent from December to April, which is Panama's dry season. Several kite schools offer lessons, including Machete Kite and Kitesurf Panama, located at opposite ends of the beach.

Punta Chame is about 1.5 hours from Panama City , and about 20 minutes from the town of Chame, along the Pan-American Highway. You can find good accommodation in small luxury beachfront hotels, or, if you are looking for cheap accommodation, several hostels are available in town.

Punta Chame has an end-of-the-world type feel, and this is not the place to come for nightlife. All of the action is focused on the beach and kitesurfing and for most people, this is the entire reason for visiting.

Highlights : A long stretch of uncrowded sand, hot temperatures and sunny skies, golfing

If all you want to do in Panama is hit the beach and relax in comfort, Playa Coronado is a perfect spot. The beaches here stretch for miles and are an interesting mix of sparkling black and gold sand.

American chain restaurants and a large mall provide the touches of home that many of the retirees escaping cold northern winters appreciate. The water is not blue here, but more of a grey/green color; swimmers should be cautious of the large waves.

Playa Coronado also has some good beachfront hotels and some delightfully romantic B&Bs, although a majority of the accommodation is private homes or condos. Due to the geography of Panama, Playa Coronado is one of the hottest places in Panama during the dry season.

Highlights : Waterfalls, hiking trails, historic churches, a cooler climate

A couple of hours east of Panama City, you'll find the turnoff for the towns of Santa Fe and San Francisco. This turn takes you away from the coast and into the mountains, ultimately ending at Santa Fe National Park . This is a relatively undiscovered area of Panama and perfect for people who want to get off the beaten path.

On the road to Santa Fe, you'll come across San Francisco , an unassuming town with a pleasant main square and one of the oldest churches in the country, Iglesia de San Francisco de la Montana, dating from 1727 . This photogenic church is open each day until 4pm, but closed over the lunch hour.

Just down the road about a mile is a secret swimming spot, Balneario El Salto . Here, the water cascades over rocks into a shallow natural pool, and swimmers come with their inflatable donuts and other toys to escape the heat on hot days.

Farther up the road, Santa Fe is a small friendly town in the mountains with some of the same features as Boquete, except in a much smaller and less developed way. Hiking, birding, coffee plantation tours, river tubing, and 4x4 driving in the national park are popular activities, which can be easily arranged.

You won't find the great selection of restaurants as you will in Boquete, but you are more likely to have personal experiences with local proprietors as you dine in their small establishments. Speaking Spanish is a real advantage here, as English is not widely spoken.

Santa Fe is located at an elevation of 1,500 feet, so it has a cooler climate than lower areas and can feel like a refreshing treat if you are coming from the coast. Be aware that on Tuesdays almost all the restaurants are closed, and from 3-6pm every day, a small no-see-um type insect comes out and feasts on exposed skin. The bites don't hurt but do produce plentiful red spots that fade by morning.

Roads in Panama are generally in good condition and, except for Panama City, where traffic can be horrendous, driving is easy. Due to the fact that there is only one major highway, the Pan-American, which runs the length of the country, destinations are generally easy to find. The main secondary highways branch off from this main artery. Potholes can be a problem on secondary roads and can come up surprisingly quickly.

Speeders beware! Police with radar guns are a very frequent occurrence along the Pan-American highway. Speed limit changes are frequent, and it's easy to find yourself going too fast.

If you are looking to do a driving tour around Panama, you can easily rent a car in Panama City. Prices are usually better at locations in the city, rather than the airport.

Drive time from Panama City to Boquete is about 6.5 hours, but depends on traffic, particularly in Panama City. From Boquete to Almirante, where you can catch a boat to Bocas del Toro, is approximately 3.5 hours.

The best time to visit Panama is in the winter through to early spring, namely December, January, February, March, and April. At this time of year, the country is at its driest, the sun beats down with a fierce intensity, and the beaches are very, very inviting.

It's hot at this time — not just a little bit hot, but a lot hot! Daytime temperatures along the Pacific coast are in the low 30s Celsius and can easily rise well above that figure, with a strong easterly wind. Although it's hot, it's also when the Panamanians enjoy most of their festivals and religious holidays.

The months of May, June, July, August, September, October, and November are considered the rainy season, and although the average temperature only dips slightly, you'll find intense humidity and it pours rain most afternoons. You'll certainly be warm, but you'll also get wet.

On the Caribbean coast it's always warm and humid, and always slightly wet no matter the month you choose to visit.

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Panama City: While most people use Panama City as a jumping-off point for their trip through Panama, not everyone takes the time to see the sites and appreciate what this city has to offer. If you decide to spend some time here, see our article on the Top Attractions & Things to Do in Panama City .

Costa Rica and Colombia: On either side of Panama are destinations worth visiting. If you want to truly experience the wildlife and natural beauty of Central America, don't miss an opportunity to explore the sites of Costa Rica , Panama's neighbor to the north. At the other end of Panama is Colombia , another destination you'll want to add to your bucket list. From Panama City, direct flights run regularly to Cartagena , one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the Americas.

More on Costa Rica

70 Awesome Things To Do In Panama: The Ultimate Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: October 2, 2023

Categories PANAMA

Attention all adventure enthusiasts! If you’re searching for a new destination to satisfy your thrill-seeking needs, Panama should be your next getaway. This country boasts an array of unbelievable landscapes and exciting adventures. Whether it’s riding the waves in Santa Catalina, trekking through the lush jungles of Boquete, or standing atop a volcano, Panama promises an unforgettable experience. In this Ultimate Panama Travel Guide , I’ll guide you through some of the most adventurous things to do in Panama.

I made it my mission to create the largest-ever adventure Panama Travel Guide. I even explored some spots that surprised the locals. Panameno’s love their adventure and I met so many awesome locals along this journey. Thanks to all of you for making my 100 days of exploring Panama such an unforgettable experience. I have put an unbelievable amount of energy into documenting these adventures so that I can share them with you all. This is my adventure guide to Panama. These are 70 awesome things to do in Panama.

3 MOST POPULAR TOURS IN PANAMA

These are the three most popular activities for tourists in Panama. Personally, I love the San Blas Islands boat trip!

• San Blas Islands Boat Trip : Explore the tropical paradise of the San Blas Islands, the most beautiful region in Panama. Easily the most amazing activity I did in Panama.
• Taboga Island Catamaran Cruise : Admire Panama from the water on a sightseeing catamaran cruise to Taboga Island. Admire the city skyline, dive from the boat for a swim, relax on a beach in Taboga, and enjoy snacks and an open bar.
• Half-Day City Tour & Panama Canal : Connect with the beautiful and modern Panama City on this shared or private city tour. Stroll the narrow streets of the Old Town and watch ships sail through the Panama Canal

70 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN PANAMA: THE BUCKET LIST

In this blog post about the top things to do in Panama, I have split the activities up by region so you can plan out your trip. If you enjoy hiking, I suggest basing in Boquete or El Valle de Anton for at least a week. If you want those tropical beaches try Bocas Del Toro, Escudo de Veraguas , and Santa Catalina .

Table of Contents

BOQUETE (CHIRIQUI PROVINCE)

Boquete has fast become one of my favorite adventure towns. It is nestled in the province of Chiriqui, which is in the north of Panama only a couple hours’ drive to the Costa Rican border. At almost 2000 meters above sea level, Boquete has a cool climate, which is perfect weather to explore all of the awesome hikes and waterfalls in the region. Boquete is also one of the best places to spot the famous Resplendent Quetzal bird in the canopy of the many forests

THE LOST WATERFALLS TRAIL

On one of the most stunning jungle trails in the world, we looked for the lost waterfalls of Boquete. Through the luscious jungle, we trekked. Over muddy paths, we slipped and stumbled. From one patch of wildflowers to the next we discovered. Until we reached three, breathtakingly powerful and mind-blowingly beautiful waterfalls. The Lost Waterfall Trail Hike is one of the best things to do in Panama.

The Lost Waterfalls Trail is the first thing most visitors do in Boquete. It is a $7 entrance fee but quite easy to get to and only a short hike it gives great value with three amazing waterfalls. It is the crowd pleaser and great for those who want a bit of an adventure, a waterfall but only half a day’s worth of effort.

View the full blog post:  THE LOST WATERFALLS TRAIL HIKE

THE PIPELINE TRAIL

The Pipeline Trail is another great hike in the Bajo Mono region just outside of Boquete Town. Walk alongside a river through the jungle until you reach a massive yet slow-descending cascade at the end of the trail. On the way, you will discover a thousand-year-old tree and some unique wildlife. The trail takes about two hours and is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon when you are staying in Boquete town.

The Pipeline Trail is a nice short walk through the jungle, with a great chance of spotting a Quetzal bird. They say this is one of the best things to do in Boquete for spotting the Quetzal. we also spotted a snake, caterpillars, and lots of beautiful plants along the way.

View the full blog post:   THE PIPELINE TRAIL

EL PIANISTA TRAIL

El Pianista Trail fast became my favorite jungle adventure in Boquete with its narrow canyon-esque path. The trail is just 4km out of Boquete town and is a 3-4 hour out and back trail with more than 2000 feet of elevation. The trail leads you into a cloud forest, which essentially means at least half of the trail is inside the clouds. This turns the scenery into a dripping rainforest, where life is buzzing, water droplets are falling to the floor from every leaf, and wildflowers and birds are plentiful.

This trail harbors some dark secrets. In 2014, two Dutch girls in their early 20’s made it to the summit and then went missing. There was no sign of the girls until a few weeks later. There are huge holes in the story of what happened and how the investigation unfolded. The girls’ backpack was found 8 weeks later, and bones including a foot still inside a boot were also found weeks later. The girls had hiked down past the summit into the continental divide. The area between Costa Rica and Panama. The Ngobe tribe were the people to discover the backpack and would have been the first contact for the girls had they come into trouble and looked for a way out according to the reports. It’s one of the spookiest things to do in Panama.

View the full blog post:  EL PIANISTA TRAIL

LA PIEDRA DE LINO HIKE

It may be one of the shortest hikes in Boquete distance wise but La Piedra De Lino will hurt your legs the most! This hike was a grueling 434 meters in elevation over just 1.3km. That means for every three meters you walk forward, you walk up one meter. However, the view of Boquete from the top rock is worth the climb.

La Piedra De Lino means the rock of Lino. Lino is a small section of Boquete only about four kilometers from the center of Boquete town. There were lots to see on the way up with flowers, berries, and glimpses of the view as we made our way to the top of the rock. There was no one else on the trail at all and we felt like we were out in the jungle even though we had views back towards Boquete town!

View the full blog post:  LA PIEDRA DE LINO (THE ROCK OF LINO) HIKE

LA PIEDRA DE ARTILLERIA HIKE

La Artilleria hike is a beautiful trail up to one of the most epic viewpoints in all of Boquete. However, it is a strange one. At the top of the trail, we scrambled up the rocks and watched the clouds part to show us an amazing view of Boquete! It was definitely the best view we had during our hiking in Boquete and something I will never forget. In the opposite direction, we had rolling mountains with several layers and even a rainbow appeared. It was a day where everything seemed to turn out perfectly although this is one of the things to do in Boquete that won’t be recommended at your hostel.

View full blog post:  LA ARTILLERIA HIKE

LA PIEDRA DE LA INDIA VIEJA HIKE

La Piedra de la India Vieja hike has in my opinion, the best views of any hike in Boquete. However, it also has the worst trail, or from what I found… no trail. My legs had many a battle scar after this hike but boy was the rock viewpoint at the top worth it all and more. If you are up for an extremely tough jungle adventure, go for it. Otherwise, enjoy my photos and head to one of the other beautiful hikes in Boquete. That’s genuine advice, not a challenge. This was one of the toughest things to do in Panama!

At the summit,  the view was totally unexpected. A jagged rock wall curved around right beneath me while mountains in all directions created an immensely atmospheric backdrop. Despite the rough journey up and the imminent rough journey down, I felt like I was on top of Boquete and I really was out here alone.

View full blog post:   LA PIEDRA DE LA INDIA VIEJA HIKE

ROCK CLIMBING WALL

On the way to Bajo Mono, the location of the Lost Waterfall Trek, and many more, there is an epic Basalt rock climbing wall. The best part about it is that is completely natural. Josh and I used to run here in the morning and work out on the grass amidst the beautiful mountains. However, in the late mornings and afternoons, there were rock climbing tours that would set up and take tourists through their paces at climbing the wall.

SENDERO LOS QUETZALES

Los Senderos Quetzales, translated to the Quetzal Trail, is one of the most popular hikes near the small town of Boquete in Panama. The Boquete region has a variety of trails to choose from yet Los Senderos Quetzales remains near the top of the list for visitors. The popularity of Los Senderos Quetzales is because this trail, in the Volcan Baru National Park, provides hikers a great opportunity to spot the elusive Quetzal bird.

The Quetzal is the national bird of Guatemala as it plays an important role in numerous types of Meso-American mythology. Additionally, the Quetzal is a very striking bird with impressive green feathers on its back while on its front it is covered in striking red feathers. The Quetzal also has a long tail. All of these features make it an attractive bird for bird-watchers to travel all the way to the Chiriqui region of Panama. El Sendero Los Quetzales is one of the most popular things to do in Boquete.

View full blog post:  SENDERO LOS QUETZALES: THE TRAIL OF THE FAMOUS QUETZAL

HIKE TO THE SUMMIT OF VOLCAN BARU

Volcán Barú is an active stratovolcano located in western Panama and stands at an impressive height of 3,475 meters. It is the tallest mountain in Panama and provides breathtaking views of both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.

Trekking to the summit is a challenging but rewarding experience, and the summit provides incredible views from above the clouds. Despite being an active volcano, Volcán Barú is considered safe for visitors and offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Panama’s natural wonders. It’s an overnight hike and one of the tougher things to do in Panama.

View the full blog post:  27KM VOLCAN BARU HIKE OVERNIGHT FOR EPIC SUNRISE

THINGS TO DO IN CHIRIQUI PROVINCE (OUTSIDE OF BOQUETE)

Those are all of the hikes, waterfalls, and activities that I got up to in Boquete. However, while in Boquete I made a few day trips within Chiriqui Province. None of these trips were much more than an hour by car. It is quite hard to rent a car and DIY by bus isn’t the easiest but is possible.

I have added directions and helpful information with an individual blog post to all of the activities above and below to help you also. So, below are the waterfalls, hikes, and places I visited while in Boquete that aren’t technically in the Boquete region.

ROMELIO & KIKI WATERFALL

I’m standing behind a waterfall, watching the droplets majestically float down right before my eyes. I feel like I am inside the earth, inside a chamber watching the raw power of mother nature from the inside out. I am within the heart of Kiki Waterfall in the Ngäbe-Buglé region, Chiriqui. It was the second waterfall of the day after visiting Romelio Falls earlier with two local tour guides and a group of new friends.

These two waterfalls are a little tough to reach but if you can organize a crew it is an epic adventure for a day of waterfall chasing. I have linked the details of the guides in the full blog post which is linked below.

View full blog post:  ROMELIO & KIKI WATERFALL IN NGÄBE-BUGLÉ REGION

CHOCLON WATERFALL

Choclon Waterfall is a beautiful twin falls at the end of a small gorge. The tiny amphitheater is the perfect place for a short hike and to hang out in the afternoon with friends on a sunny day. The water has a beautiful blue tinge to it and vines grow all around the walls of the waterfalls giving this spot a magical atmosphere.

View full blog post:   CHOCLON WATERFALL IN CHIRIQUI

CASCADA DEL TRUENO WATERFALL

When the destination of the day is ‘Thunder Waterfall (Cascada Del Trueno) you know the crew is heading somewhere aggressive, powerful, and possibly a little bit extreme! Bundled into the back of a pickup truck, we wound our way through Chiriqui to Cordillera to begin the short trail. The 30-minute hike led us down into the amphitheater of dreams as the Thunder Waterfall lived up to its name, slapping a rage of spray at anything that came within a 20m radius with pure fury.

View full blog post:  CASCADA DEL TRUENO (THUNDER WATERFALL)

CABELLO DE ANGEL WATERFALL

Cabella de Angel waterfall was huge! It flowed from two different sides and then converged into one, an almighty powerful force that rocketed into the pool below. The mist blew everyone and the rocks were incredibly slippery, which made it a fun experience but incredibly hard to shoot.

View Full blog post:  CABELLO DE ANGEL WATERFALL

CANGILONES DE GUALACA

Los Cangilones de Gualaca is a natural canyon slot in Chiriqui. It has stood the test of time and is thousands of years old. It’s a great spot to hang out with friends, cliff jump, and swim! Cangilon means bucket in Spanish or deep vessel for collecting water. This canyon is one hell of a long bucket and an epic spot to visit in Chiriqui.

View full blog post:  LOS CANGILONES DE GUALACA

SINDIGO WATERFALL

Sindigo Waterfall in Chiriqui Panama is a great little spot with cliff jumping, a rope swing, and beautiful blue water. What I am saying is… welcome to paradise!

The waterfall is in the Gualaca region and is unmarked from the road. We jumped a barbed wire fence and headed down a small path. After hiking down a little path for 10-minutes we arrived at Sindigo Waterfall.

The scene was magical. Moss-covered boulders created a swimming pool, which a sweet little waterfall poured into. From the top of the boulders, you can jump in from about 4 meters. This epic little spot even had a rope swing, which flung you all the way out into the middle of the pool.

View full blog post:   SINDIGO WATERFALL IN CHIRIQUI

JOGUATA WATERFALL

After more than a week in the town of Boquete, I had visited many waterfalls but none so far had a sizeable cliff jump. That all changed when I paid a visit to Joguata Waterfall in Caldera. An 8-meter jump from beside a waterfall into the pool below was enough to get my adrenaline pumping for the day.

The water is quite deep and the waterfall crashes into the pool so aim just to the left of that but check the conditions first as you never know what lurks beneath the surface.

View full blog post:   JOGUATA WATERFALL CLIFF JUMP

EL VALLE DE ANTON (COCLE PROVINCE)

El Valle de Anton or ‘El Valle’ for short is a town I based myself in for a month. El Valle means ‘The Valley’, and this beautiful region just a few hours out of Panama City is much more than a valley, it is a volcanic crater from many years ago. There are plentiful hikes around the rim of the crater and in the surrounding region.

LA INDIA DORMIDA HIKE

One of the most popular sunrise viewpoints in all of Anton Valley. The hike only takes about 45 minutes to summit from the town, making it a perfect way to start your morning. The loop trail takes you along the edge of the beautiful mountains of the crater, which resemble the body of a sleeping person. This is where the hike gets its name and we will delve into the Legend of the Sleeping Indian in this blog post as well as everything you need to know about hiking La India Dormida to enjoy an epic sunrise.

Legend has it that Luba, known as ‘Airflower’, was the youngest daughter of heralded Chief Urraca. Urraca was the leader of one of the many Guaymi Tribes in Anton Crater. Luba was a rebellious girl and despite her tribes fighting with the Spanish for years, she fell in love with a Spanish official who lived in the town. Yaravi was a brave warrior from the tribe who loved Luba but she didn’t love him back. Yaravi couldn’t handle this and took his own life, throwing himself off of a mountain while Luba stared in a perplexed fashion. Luba didn’t want to betray her town and in a desperate panic of crying and mourning she loses herself in the bushes and dies

Need more information?  Full blog post:   HIKING LA INDIA DORMIDA FOR SUNRISE

CERRO CARA IGUANA

My first hike in Cocle was a short, sweet, and eventually very wet trek to the summit of Cerra Cara Iguana.  Anton Valley is actually a giant volcanic crater. It is said to be the only volcanic crater, which is inhabited. It’s pretty crazy to think that at some stage a key decision maker decided that the best place to set up camp was inside a volcanic crater.

What you have now is a beautiful town surrounded by epic mountains. In short, the Anton Valley unintentionally placed itself as a future adventure tourism destination. Cerro Cara Iguana gives you a great view of this crater. The ridge of Cerro Cara Iguana extends out towards the middle of the crater, more than any other point and it was great to do this hike early in my stay in Anton Valley. It gives you a great idea of the layout of the town and is one of my favorite places to visit in Panama.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO CARA IGUANA HIKE

CERRO GAITAL

Often labeled as ‘The toughest hike in Panama’, the Cerro Gaital hike will definitely challenge you while making your way up to the epic viewpoint.

Cerro Gaital leads you through a tunnel of the dense forest before hitting you with intense vertical rock climbs into the foggy summit. The hike takes less than three hours depending on how long you spend at the top. It is possible to walk to the trailhead from Anton Valley Town or you can catch a bus to the trailhead for $1.

From the top of Cerro Gaital, you have views over the whole valley and beyond. I sat atop the small cement hut eating my lunch enjoying yet another empty mountain in El Valle de Anton!

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO GAITAL HIKE

CERRO LA GAITA

Although it is not directly in El Valle de Anton, Cerro La Gaita is only a short drive or even a bus trip away from the town center. This makes it one of the best things to do in El Valle de Anton or at least nearby.

Every mountain in Anton Valley seems to surround you as you emerged from the jungle to rise above the canopy on a wooden platform. For an hour you trek up the slippery path and then the stairs that pierced through the dense jungle. You will reach the summit of Cerro La Gaita and the view over Cerro Picacho and San Carlos Lake is beautiful.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO LA GAITA HIKE

POZO AZUL WATERFALL CANYON

In what seems to be the middle of a quiet farmland region is one of the wonders of Panama. A lot of places around the world get hyped up but surprisingly Pozo Azul was spoken of as a nice spot but I didn’t expect to encounter such an epic location. In the depths of the jungle, a series of waterfalls flow down from one level to the next into crystal-clear azure pools. Rock climbing, cliff jumping, and the ultimate waterhole await you at Pozo Azul in Cocle, Panama.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  POZO AZUL WATERFALLS

CERRO LA SILLA

Cerro La Silla is a short journey to an epic viewpoint atop the mountains to watch the sun rise over the horizon with views of Valle de Anton and beyond! It’s interesting that  Cerro Cara Iguana  and  India Dormida hikes  are the most suggested but you don’t hear a lot about Cerro La Silla. Having experienced all three I would say it is hard to separate them all but La Silla possibly has the best views.

Just before the sun was about to break over the horizon we made it to the summit where we sat down beneath the giant cross, which seems to be common at viewpoints in Valle de Anton. We could see all the way back into the crater of Valle de Anton but also out to  Cerro Picacho .

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO LA SILLA ‘THE ARMCHAIR’ SUNRISE HIKE

CERRO PICACHO IN SAN CARLOS

Overlooking San Carlos Laguna, the Cerro Picacho hike in San Carlos (West Panama) is one of the best viewpoints in the region. It is a steady incline through the dense forest, which leads you over roots, through muddy paths, and underneath a beautiful canopy. The tropical conditions mean that as per usual you will be sweating, hot, and searching for air when you reach the summit.

There are two viewpoints on Cerro Picacho in San Carlos. The first is a really cool boulder that sticks out of the trail and gives a great vantage point of the lake and the other peak. The other peak is incredibly steep although I have seen a video of someone sitting on top of it. From the boulder lookout, we could see other hikes like  Cerro La Gaita  platform. It is a great spot to check out the other mountains in the area.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO PICACHO HIKE IN SAN CARLOS

CERRO TUREGA HIKE

Cerro Turega is an epic trail that leads you past waterfalls before up an intense incline to reach the three peaks at the summit with panoramic views! The hike is only a 6km trail. However, the hike is regularly touted as a 4-hour journey and this is because the terrain is incredibly steep and slippery making it very slow going.

There are three epic peaks but as far as I know, you can only reach the first where you can see us standing in the photos. They are very steep and I would be surprised if peaks two and three are accessible. The views are beautiful and we got a few glimpses amidst the fog and stormy clouds.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO TUREGA ‘THREE PEAKS’ HIKE

ISLA FARALLON DAY TRIP

Isla Farallon is a unique island off the coast off of Farallon on the southern coast of Panama, only a couple of hours’ drive from Panama City. We ventured down on three buses from Valle de Anton in about an hour and enjoyed a day of soaking up the sun, exploring Isla Farallon, and beach volleyball on Farallon Beach. This is a family-friendly beach with nothing but chill vibes, sun, and salt!

It only took us just over an hour to reach Farallon Beach from El Valle on two buses. Farallon Island only takes another fifteen-minute boat trip from there. I thought it would be handy in this guide as sometimes in El Valle de Anton, you forget what the beach looks like when you go on daily hikes!

Need more information?  Full blog post:  ISLA FARALLON AND FARALLON BEACH

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT IN COCLE PROVINCE

These are a few other random spots in Cocle province that didn’t quite fit into a popular region.

AGUILA FALLS AND CANYON

Aguila Waterfalls is one of those locations that take you into another world. I found myself wading through knee-deep in crystal clear blue water while staring up at huge walls of ferns and vines as sunlight crept in through the canopy, lighting up the canyon. This is an Indiana Jones type of adventure.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  AGUILA WATERFALLS AND CANYON

CERRO TRINIDAD HIKE

Cerro Trinidad is a steep hike through the jungle to an epic viewpoint out over Capiro. It isn’t very popular and subsequently, the trail is quite rough and very steep in some parts. A guide is highly suggested and hikers not in good physical condition may decide to give this hike a miss due to the incline.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO TRINIDAD HIKE IN EL CACAO

CERRO CHAME SUNRISE HIKE

Cerro Chame is a collection of ridges and rolling hills overlooking the region of Chame. The hike takes just over an hour until you reach the cross at the summit, although you can continue on much further along the ridges, which makes it a much longer hike.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO CHAME SUNRISE HIKE

30KM TIFE WATERFALL TREK

A journey of 30km with over 2000 meters of incline through the forest of Omar Torrijos National Park to reach the epic Tife Waterfall in Panama. It isn’t for the faint-hearted but it is an incredible experience and off the beaten path, to say the least! If you are game the adventure to Tife Waterfall challenges you! This was easily one of the toughest things to do in Panama!

Need more information?  Full blog post:  30KM TREK TO TIFE WATERFALL

FILIPINAS WATERFALLS

Filipinas waterfalls is a series of five different waterfalls easily accessible along a short, but interesting trail that leads you through the jungle to each spot!

The fifth and final waterfall is a double-tiered beauty. At the end of a short but narrow canyon, a slim waterfall shoots down into a little pool of blue water. It is possible to climb up the left side but it is very slippery and can be quite dangerous. However, if you do make it to the top the view is beautiful!

Need more information?  Full blog post:  FILIPINAS WATERFALLS IN SORA

NATIVA WATERFALL IN SORA

Nativa Waterfall is an amazing wall of water like nothing else in Panama! It’s a really unique waterfall as it is a rounded wall that pours into a tiny little pool and then shoots off sideways down the river

This huge water wall was one of my favorite waterfalls in Panama because it is just so different from the regular style of a waterfall. It’s deep enough to swim in the pool below, even though it is only a 3-meter wide pool!

Need more information?  Full blog post:  NATIVA WATERFALL IN SORA

LOS VALLES WATERFALL CLIFF JUMP

Los Valles Waterfall cliff jump is by far one of my favorite places to hang out in all of Panama. Taking in the sun while laying on the rocks in between massive cliff jumps is heaven on earth for me! This was one of the most fun things to do in Panama.

The biggest cliff jump is 15m and other spots are possible to jump from throughout the watering hole. The biggest factor to point out that this is not an easy place to cliff jump. Especially on the big 15-meter jump, you need to run and really push off to reach the middle of the pool below. It is dangerous if you are scared and only do a small jump or back out halfway. Don’t take this place lightly.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  LOS VALLES WATERFALL: THE BEST CLIFF JUMP IN PANAMA

OLA WATERFALLS

The waterfalls of Ola are a spectacle that could be argued to be among the best series of waterfalls in Panama. Two huge waterfalls are accompanied by many smaller cascades and watering holes, which on clear days boast beautiful blue waters.

The main waterfall was a sight to behold. It was aggressive and the pool it flowed down into was a scene of carnage. Huge rocks were littered everywhere from previous falls most likely and the water smashed down onto one of the rocks spraying up with pure force.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  THE AMAZING WATERFALLS OF OLA

CERRO PICACHO SUNRISE HIKE IN OLA

Sitting in the long grass on top of Cerro Picacho in Ola, we slowly watched the illumination of the epic ridges all around us until we had become ants amidst a golden glow in what is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Panama.

The sun rises directly in front of you lighting up the valley, which is littered with other epic mountains. Fog circled many of the bigger mountains and in combination with the layers of mountains, the view was incredible. Because of the sharp ridges, Cerro Picacho hike in Ola became one of my favorite hikes in Panama. It was only short but the view was just breathtaking. It is like nothing you ever expected from this country and one of the top things to do in Panama. I think this morning is one of my favorites photography-wise as well.

CERRO PICACHO SUNRISE HIKE IN OLA, PANAMA

MANGLARITO WATERFALL

Manglarito Waterfall in Chame begins with an insane canyon drop, which flows down into an amphitheater with the main waterfall. Both of the waterfalls are beautiful and this jungle atmosphere is one of my favorites in Panama.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  MANGLARITO WATERFALL IN CHAME

LOS CAJONES DE CHAME

Hidden in the depths of Chame is a masterpiece from mother nature. Los Cajones de Chame (The draws of Chame) is one of the most unique land formations in Panama. Only 90 minutes from Panama City, it is one of the most remarkable and popular spots to visit in Panama.

Need more information?  Full blog post:  LOS CAJONES DE CHAME IN PANAMA

CERRO DE LA CRUZ SUNRISE HIKE

We waited in the cold, curled up behind boulders atop Cerro De La Cruz with the almighty cross towering above us. It had been an early wake-up call at 2 am and we were now patiently shivering our way towards a beautiful sunrise in the Campana National Park on the Cerro De La Cruz viewpoint hike. After patiently waiting for an hour, the sun finally started to break its way through and we started to see how beautiful the view was with the sun streaming into the valley and up onto the mountain.

This viewpoint, which is at 905 meters of altitude, was one of my favorite lookouts in Panama. Standing beneath the cross with such an epic drop below us was an insane way to start the day!

Need more information?  Full blog post:  CERRO DE LA CRUZ HIKE IN ALTOS DE CAMPANA NATIONAL PARK

SANTA FE (VERAGUAS PROVINCE)

Santa Fe is a beautiful little town, nestled in the towering mountains of Veraguas. Almost exactly in the center of Panama, Santa Fe is one of the adventure hotspots for hikers and waterfall enthusiasts. I stayed in Santa Fe for ten days and went on a hike or visited a waterfall every single day. Not many people think about Santa Fe when considering what to do in Panama but it was one of my favorite backpacking spots in Panama.

CERRO TUTE HIKE

Cerro Tute is a viewpoint that looks out over Santa Fe from a pile of precarious rocks! I really loved Cerro Tute and it was a great first experience in Santa Fe, Veraguas. I recommend doing it as your first Santa Fe hiking trail even though it is quite long. You will get great views of the area and can even pick out a few other peaks you might want to summit also!

Read the full blog post:   EPIC CERRO TUTE HIKE

ALTO DE PIEDRA WATERFALL HIKE

I now backtracked all the way to the front gate and decide that I would try the trail on the far left. It was the only trail I had not yet visited because I entered the far right trail and emerged in the middle trail. I had seemingly done a loop. But I hadn’t yet visited the far left trail so off I went. It turns out that this is actually the trail to the biggest waterfall and maybe the most popular as the trail had tires placed to help with the mud and was the most well-defined and easy to follow.

At the bottom of the trail was a huge waterfall, the biggest of the day. I felt like the waterfalls in this region just never ended but that’s Panama for you. A shallow pool once again collected the water at the bottom of this pool.

Read the full blog post:   ALTO DE PIEDRA WATERFALLS HIKE

BERMEJO WATERFALL HIKE

Bermejo Waterfall was a scene of beautiful destruction. As I sat atop a wet rock, alone in the amphitheater of Bermejo, I could only envision the events that had unfolded over the years to leave this magical place in the state it remains today. Boulders the sizes of houses are covered in moss with trees growing readily from their surface. Freezing cold water swirls viciously, inviting you to test the danger. And then there is the waterfall itself. A multi-tiered, dual-directional flow of pure aggression, which slices through the earth in the middle of the Santa Fe Jungle with an exclamation point.

It’s an aggressive waterfall without a place to swim directly below it. However, the first pool is deep enough to at least cool off. I definitely suggest packing lunch and hanging out in this area for a few hours to appreciate the region and recover from your trek in!

Read full blog post:  BERMEJO WATERFALL HIKE

EL SALTO WATERFALL HIKE

El Salto is a collection of 22 waterfalls (if not more) in the middle of the mountains near Santa Fe. I explored two by foot and one other with the drone. It is possible to explore all of them but takes expert knowledge of the area, ropes, and some serious skills and planning.

It’s definitely one of the longer Santa Fe hiking trails but you usually get out what effort you put in and it’s is true in this case. Remote paradise!

Read full blog post:  EL SALTO WATERFALLS

NUCA DEL TORO HIKE

Amidst a myriad of amazing waterfalls and trails, Nuca Del Toro, is a basic trail without much of an epic viewpoint. However, if you give the trail a chance it can be a fun afternoon activity with a change of scenery from the Panamanian Jungle. Huge pine trees surround you on top of the hill with snippets of the mountain range visible depending on what giant boulder you can clamber onto.

Read full blog post:  NUCA DEL TORO HIKE

NATURE NIGHT TRAIL

Take a walk into the dark, armed with your flashlight! In the jungle at night, the creatures come out to play and we had an epic time exploring. We saw frogs, snakes, a shy sloth, cicadas, butterflies, tarantulas, and all kinds of crazy bugs.

The interesting part is that in Santa Fe there are lots of motion-sensor cameras and Edgar showed us the photos they had captured within the last 2 years. It is pretty shocking. Jaguars, Ocelots, Pumas, and lots of other large mammals are out here in the jungle, but they are seldom seen!

We walked for about 1.5 hours total admiring all of the amazing creatures along the way. Let’s just see if the bugs are bigger in Panama. If you are interested in this experience I do recommend it. Just drop into Hostal La Qhiaand let them know. It was $25 per person and the only paid tour I did in Santa Fe. The rest of the Santa Fe hiking trails were free!

Read full blog post:   NATURE NIGHT TRAIL IN THE JUNGLE

LOMA GRANDE WATERFALL HIKE

Loma Grande Waterfall near Santa Fe, Veraguas is one of the most spectacular little spots to visit in the region. Not only is this waterfall an epic natural sight but the amphitheater within which it is found is out of this world. Slopes on either side are covered in tropical plants, dripping from the spray of the waterfall. Moss-covered rocks are scattered throughout the stream that leads up to the fall. The best bit, however, is the unexplainable pool of blue water that sits to the side of the waterfall.

Read full blog post:  LOMA GRANDE WATERFALL

LAS GOLONDRINAS WATERFALL

I had heard about this goliath waterfall but never envisioned it to be quite so epic. Las Golondrinas Waterfall is a mammoth falls near Santa Fe, Veraguas. The trek to the falls takes only 20 minutes but leads you through a wonderland of vines and river crossings before revealing the gigantic waterfall.

The trail is very clear to follow and has handrails in some points. However, because of the conditions, it is very muddy and you will get wet and dirty on this trail. If the trail doesn’t get you wet, the river crossing will.

Read full blog post:  LAS GOLONDRINAS WATERFALL TRAIL

EL SALTO DEL LIMON WATERFALL

Multiple streams poured over the edge of the cliff, like lines of tears seeping out of the earth. El Salto del Limon is a beautiful waterfall that has a quiet, peaceful atmosphere rather than an aggressive show of raw power like many of the other waterfalls in Panama.

Read full blog post:  EL SALTO DEL LIMON WATERFALL

LA SILAMPA WATERFALL HIKE

A rocky path carves its way through the rolling hills of Calobre. For an hour of steep trekking, curious hikers can only imagine what paradise may be found at the end of their journey. The trail finally ends, and what is found is truly an oasis, a crystal clear oasis. Flowing down for a river through the mountains, a waterfall cascades into the azure blue water, which then flows into several small lagoons before finally free-falling into another waterfall to disappear into the river below. This my friends is a mountain paradise.

Silampa is one of my favorite places in Panama and it’s the perfect location for an all-day hangout with a packed lunch and good company. The trek is only an hour one-way, which makes it the perfect weekend adventure in Panama.

Read full blog post:  LA SILAMPA WATERFALL HIKE

ISLA ESCUDO DE VERAGUAS CAMPING TRIP

Locals will tell you it is the last frontier or the final hidden paradise in Panama. Escudo de Veraguas means ‘The Shield of Veraguas’ and it is one of the most amazing locations in Central America. It is home to the elusive three-toed pygmy sloth, which at times swims in the crystal clear waters of the mangroves in this tropical island oasis. Escudo de Veraguas is a must-see place in Panama!

SANTA CATALINA

Santa Catalina is the ultimate beach and surf destination in Panama. It’s a bit of a hidden gem but still has a few beautiful resorts and fun hostels to host you while you kick back and enjoy the chill, coastal vibes.

SURF AT LA PUNTA

La Punta has built a reputation as being one of the best waves in Central America because of its year-round offshore and consistency, which is seen almost nowhere else in the region.  It breaks right every day between April and October. With a tide sweeping in and out by quite some distance, surfers wait for high tide to paddle directly out from Hotel Santa Catalina or nearby entrance points.

The most popular section at La Punta surf break is the outside section. It gets dispersed down the long point, especially during high tide. The offshore winds get strong in the afternoon.

LEARN TO SURF AT PLAYA ESTERO

If La Punta break looks a bit too crazy or advanced for you, that is no problem in Santa Catalina. Just down the hill at the other end of the village is Playa Estero. This huge stretch of beach is home to some kinder, rolling waves. These are perfect for beginners of all ages. Kids and first-timers can be seen catching their first-ever waves here all day long.

You can rent a board for $5 right on the beach from local surf vendors who also offer lessons. If you have never surfed before I suggest taking at least a half-hour lesson so you have your feet right and your technique under your belt. Learning to surf is one of the best things to do in Santa Catalina.

Read the full blog post:   7 BEST BEACHES IN SANTA CATALINA

HANG OUT AT PLAYA SANTA CATALINA

Playa Santa Catalina is the second black sand beach of Santa Catalina. It is the hub of activity as it is situated right in the heart of the town. Cafes are situated nearby as well as scuba, kayak and snorkel rental stores.

During the day the beach is a great place to hang out and it never gets too busy. Groups of locals take to the volleyball court in the evening with fun social games that even tourists are welcome to join. Down near the water, the soccer games get into full swing on the slick black sand. I had an epic sunset soccer game and it was one of my favorite things to do in Santa Catalina.

TREK TO PUNTA ROCA

Punta Roca is a little trail that starts at the far-left part of Playa Santa Catalina. It takes you through some farm fields and along the coast for about thirty minutes until you end up at Punta Roca. It is an area along the coastline with lots of tight coves, inlets, and secret beaches. I walked out to Punta Roca once and it was kind of strange. You had to pass through what seemed like private farms but the fences had a little gap made for you to pass through.

The trail wasn’t clear the whole way but I ended up getting there in the end. When I arrived it was a huge storm. I decided to fly back with the drone the next day from Playa Santa Catalina to explore the region from the air. It’s one of the less popular things to do in Santa Catalina but it is an adventure for sure!

SEE THE REFLECTIONS AT LA COQUITA

La Coquita is one of my favorite beaches in Santa Catalina because of the reflections. It reminds me of Bali beaches, which give epic black sand reflections every night. When the sunset gives you some color you want to be at La Coquita.

Because of the huge stretch of sand, it is a popular spot for horseback riding and we even took the cruiser bikes all the way down here. On our visit to La Coquita, we watched an insane storm come straight past us as the horses were riding through. It was a pretty surreal ten minutes and the storm never even touched us. Visiting La Coquita for sunset would have to be one of my favorite things to do in Santa Catalina because of the reflections.

EXPLORE PUNTA BRAVA

If you walk down Playa Estero and then all the way down La Coquita you will then cross over the rocks to Punta Brava. It will take you about thirty or so minutes to complete the walk. It is a very rocky beach and this is evident at low tide. It isn’t at all like Playa Estero or La Coquita when considering how much sandy beach they have. Visiting Punta Brava isn’t one of the popular things to do in Santa Catalina but it’s a great spot to finish a walk from Playa Estero.

At high tide, it is a great surf spot where the waves can grow well beyond 6 feet. There are a right and a left wave. The right can be hollow and the fast left begins to work when there are more than 6 feet of well.

KAYAK TO ISLA CATALINA

Santa Catalina Island or Isla Catalina as it is known locally is a beautiful island sitting just off the coast of Santa Catalina in Veraguas. Snorkeling and a virgin white sand beach are the highlights of the island. You can expect a peaceful afternoon with tourists rarely venturing out to the island. You can either rent a boat to drop you there in a few minutes or head out on a kayak adventure to Santa Catalina Islands as we did. For me, this is one of the best beaches in Santa Catalina if not the best beach. However, it takes some effort to get out there.

The back side of the island is all rocks and the front side is a long sandy beach. It was a great place to grab a tan and hang out in the sun for a while. We explored along the shore keeping our eyes out for a trail we had heard about.

This day was epic and kayaking to Isla Catalina was easily one of the best things to do in Santa Catalina!

Read the full blog post:   KAYAKING TO SANTA CATALINA ISLAND IN PANAMA

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO COIBA NATIONAL PARK

MAKE A DAY TRIP OR STAY OVERNIGHT ON CEBACO ISLAND

Less than an hour away from Santa Catalina by boat is another amazing destination for whale spotting, snorkeling, and island hopping. Cebaco Island is a beautiful palm tree-laden paradise and the best part about it, you will be the only one there!

There is only one hotel on Cebaco Island called  Cebaco Sunrise  and there are less than 300 locals living on the island. I spent 48 hours on Cebaco Island and didn’t see another tourist or even another local. From  Cebaco Sunrise  we were completely isolated in our own little paradise. I walked up and down the coast in solitude, exploring lagoons, waterfalls, and caves. It’s not often you feel like you have an entire island to yourself!

Read the full blog post:   CEBACO ISLAND IN VERAGUAS

PLACES TO VISIT NEAR PANAMA CITY

Panama City isn’t my favorite region in Panama but if you find yourself in the city for a few days, these adventures will keep you busy.

ANCON HILL VIEWPOINT

Ancon Hill is the most popular viewpoint in Panama City, with views over the Panama Canal, city center, and Casco Viejo old town region. The climb up Ancon Hill (Cerro Ancon) in Panama City takes only 30 minutes. The incline is quite steep but it is gradual and on a paved road. This is a leisurely climb suitable for kids, dogs, and hikers of all abilities.

Once you reach the top there are two viewing platforms. Well, there are actually three but only two are legal. The first platform has a bench and a little viewing hut with good views over Casco Viejo old town. The second viewpoint is the most popular with a big seating area and great views back across the city center and the ocean.

READ THE FULL BLOG POST:  ANCON HILL VIEWPOINT

CERRO CEDRO VIEWPOINT

Cerro Cedro is arguably the best viewpoint of Panama City. At just over 500ft above sea-level, you will have great views of Panama City, the business hub of Central America. The part I love about this viewpoint is that you are seemingly in the Jungle staring out at the metropolis through the branches. Howler monkeys scream nearby to confirm that you are indeed in the wild despite your proximity to the urban jungle.

READ FULL BLOG POST :  CERRO CEDRO IN THE METROPOLITAN NATURAL PARK

PLANTATION TRAIL IN SOBERANIA NATIONAL PARK

Panama City can get quite crazy at times amidst the traffic and the urban jungle. However, the beauty of Panama is that you are never far from the jungle or an adventure. Just a 28km drive from Panama City is Soberania National Park. Inside the park, you will find several trails with one of the most popular being the 14km Plantation Trail.

READ THE FULL BLOG POST :  THE PLANTATION TRAIL IN SOBERANIA NATIONAL PARK

JAGUAR FALLS HIKE IN KALU YALA

Jaguar Falls is a beautiful waterhole and waterfall at the end of a 5.3km hike through the jungle. It’s called Jaguar Falls because it is indeed a site where the Jaguar is present at night. It is not known how many but sightings are not uncommon. During the day, however, it is safe to visit Jaguar Falls. There is a great cliff jump of about 8m or even higher at the falls too! This is my favorite hike near Panama City.

READ THE FULL BLOG POST :  JAGUAR FALLS HIKE AT KALU YALA

SAN BLAS ISLANDS

The journey from Colombia to Panama is not a straightforward transit. The dangerous Darien Gap Jungle makes it impossible to pass through overland on a bus or via car. The most common way to reach Panama from Colombia is to fly to Panama City. However, we found that the tickets were $250 USD one way, which is quite expensive given the distance of the flight. The next option is to sail or take a boat from Cartagena to Panama City, which sounded like the most adventurous option. We organized a 3-night/4-day San Blas Islands tour boat trip from Colombia to Panama, which costs $399 USD.

The San Blas Islands were epic. We did some amazing snorkeling, island-hopped, and had some tense beach volleyball games. The nights were spent sleeping in hammocks and the days were spent exploring different islands, meeting the local indigenous tribes, and hanging out at the beautiful beaches.

View the full blog post: SAN BLAS ISLANDS TOUR

BOCAS DEL TORO

Bocas Del Toro is the one destination in Panama other than the city that most travelers do visit. With the promise of tropical conditions, blue waters, sloths, and beaches can you blame them? It’s definitely a beautiful place full of great snorkel spots, empty islands, and beach shack getaways. I spent a few nice days hanging out in Bocas before the bad weather forced me to head to the mountains to go hiking. Bocas Del Toro is one of the most popular places to visit in Panama.

OVER-WATER BUNGALOWS

I don’t travel for luxury villas, but when your villa is over the water that is a really cool feeling. I was lucky enough to shoot for Azul Paradise and enjoy their resort for a few days. It is super expensive at more than $300 per night but some places in the Maldives are $5000 a night so if you do want that over-water experience and luxury getaway you could do it in Bocas Del Toro for much less than other locations around the world.

SPOT A SLOTH

There are many places to spot a sloth in Panama. I saw them on hikes near Panama City and in Campana. However, they are quite common in Bocas Del Toro. We did a little river cruise while on Bastimentos and our guide managed to spot several sloths. They are pretty difficult to spot and don’t move much but you may just get lucky.

ISLAND HOPPING IN BOCAS DEL TORO

You really can’t go wrong with island hopping in Bocas. There are so many trips offered and they all lead to beautiful islands with snorkeling spots. Try Zapatos Island or just ask a local for their favorite spot if you don’t want to join one of the group tours, which is a more economical option.

Wow! You made it this far. I made it this far. That’s it guys, this is my adventure guide to all of the best things to do in Panama. I hoped you enjoyed planning your trip based on some of the spots I visited and of course, I hope you love Panama as much as I do!

HAVE YOU CHECKED OUT MY OTHER PANAMA GUIDES

• 70 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN PANAMA : The ultimate guide to exploring the whole country!
• 26 AMAZING WATERFALLS IN PANAMA : The ultimate guide to waterfall chasing in Panama.
• 6 BEST CLIFF JUMPING SPOTS IN PANAMA : The guide for thrill-seekers and adrenaline hunters.
• 37 AMAZING HIKES IN PANAMA : All of the best hiking trails. Many you’ve never heard of!
• 18 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BOQUETE : Hiking, waterfalls, and volcanoes.
• 12 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN EL VALLE DE ANTON : My favorite place to base in Panama.
• 10 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SANTA CATALINA : Surf, hike, swim, kayak, and explore.

I hope you enjoy my guides and have a great time exploring Panama!

CONTACT JERRY THE LOCAL GUIDE (MY BEST FRIEND IN PANAMA)

If you need a local guide or are looking for tips to travel through Panama I suggest contacting, Jerry,  one of my best friends from Panama.  He runs group tours to off-the-beaten-path locations like Escudo de Veraguas and Bayano Caves. He is a local, indigenous guide who is incredibly funny, honest, and knows Panama by the back of his hand. We explored all of Cocle together and went on some insane adventures and he became like a brother to me. If you have any questions or want help, tours, guides, or tips he is your man.

• Instagram:  @jerryfit
• WhatsApp:  +507 6153 8924
• Email: [email protected]

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You can click to read my Full Review of the Best Travel Insurance .

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Saturday 9th of September 2023

what a good blog. thank you!! I got some supplemental info in regards to beaches. https://expat-tations.com/leisure/best-beaches-near-panama-city/ Keep going man!

Monday 31st of July 2023

Hey Jackson, a friend in Cambutal (Sam) recommended you...I'm looking to do some jungle hiking to some obscure falls and also into Darien. I'll becin Panama in September for a couple weeks. You can reach me at [email protected] Cheers!

Thursday 13th of October 2022

Hi! I loved all the places you are sharing. Actually know i really want to go to Panama and explore all the waterfalls. I'm a solo traveler and I'm worried that all this treks is better to do it with someone, isn't it? Do you recomend to do the treks alone?

Thank you very much

Thursday 10th of February 2022

Love this blog post! I just spent a month in Panamá as my partner is from there. Great to see all these amazing places. How can I follow you? Do you have IG? Cheers, Deon

Friday 28th of January 2022

Hi Jackson Great post of Panama!!!!! Can I share this with my travelers friends?

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41 Things to Do in Panama + 3 Things NOT to Do

May 22, 2023 by Silvia 25 Comments

My top tips for things to do in Panama:

My friend Rachel and I were chatting about our summer plans and when we realized we both had the same two weeks in August free Rachel suggested we visit Panama together!

Neither of us had been to Central America before so we were super excited to get to explore a new region, but also at a bit of a loss as to where we should actually go. In the end we opted for Panama, and I’m so glad we did because I can’t imagine a better introduction to Central America.

Basically we wanted to go somewhere with lots of beautiful nature, fun towns and cities, cute boutique hotels, and a good variety of things to do so we didn’t get bored over the two weeks. And Panama totally delivered.

Now, as we’re both full time travel bloggers, Rachel and I are both  super into travel planning. You should have seen the spreadsheets and Google docs that went into planning this Panama trip. It was a little over the top, to say the least. I probably spent more time researching the best things to do in Panama and the best places to visit in Panama than I actually did, well,  in  Panama.

We drafted so many different Panama itinerary possibilities and it seemed like as soon as we had decided where to go in Panama we were discovering another cool place to go. But in the end we did manage to narrow down a two week Panama itinerary that I LOVED.

It’s just such an amazing country, and really made for the best experience in Central America.

So, if you want to fall in love with Panama too, here are my top choices to do in Panama:

Table of Contents

Visit Panama City

I spent four days in Panama City and absolutely loved it, so you definitely shouldn’t skip it! In fact we had originally planned to stay in Panama City for three days but we loved it so much once we arrived that we extended our stay for an extra day.

I had expected Panama City to just be the necessary starting point for our trip, but actually the city ended up being a highlight of my entire time in Panama. It’s a beautiful and diverse city with so much going on, and I feel like I could have spent an entire week there exploring.

Here are some things to do in Panama City, Panama (and you can simply scroll down past the stars for things to do in Panama outside of Panama City)

 ★ The Panama Canal

Okay, you guys know I’m not usually one for museums and historic sites, but I was super excited to get to see the Panama Canal in real life! And while I had a sneaking suspicion the canal would be underwhelming in person, it actually was really cool and one of the highlights of my time in Panama City.

You might remember from your middle school history class, but the Panama Canal was an enormous project – in fact it was started several times before they actually figured out how to complete it. And it’s had a great impact on the country. The Panama Canal museum goes into all the history of the project, and then you can go outside and watch the canal in action.

★ Get lost in Casco Viejo

I really enjoyed Panama City and could have happily spent more than just four days there, and my favorite area was definitely Casco Viejo.

This area used to be really run down, but now Panama City is investing a lot in it and a lot of the old buildings have been refurbished and transformed into boutique hotels, stylish cafes and restaurants, and beautiful little shops.

I asked a local what he thought about Casco Viejo’s transformation and he said that while in a way it’s a bit sad to see the area change, the revitalization has thankfully had a really positive impact on locals and it’s great to have an area that has such tourist appeal as well.

Plus Casco Viejo is simply the best place for a photoshoot! I mean, you can’t expect two bloggers to go anywhere without taking an embarrassing number of photos for Instagram. What can I say?

★ Stay at a really unique boutique hotel in Panama City

I split my time between two gorgeous hotels in Panama City, and I really couldn’t say which I enjoyed more!

First I stayed at the American Trade Hotel , which was the perfect luxury hotel experience in the heart of Casco Viejo. The rooms were beautiful and the breakfast delicious, and I sort of felt like I was on a movie set. You can read more about my stay at the American Trade hotel here .

And then for my final two nights in Panama City I stayed at Las Clementinas , which has beautiful apartments. It was so fun getting to pretend like I was a local in Casco Viejo, and they had so many lovely touches like filling my fridge with breakfast treats. You can read more about my stay at Las Celementinas here .

★ Have lunch at El Trapiche

One of the best meals I had in Panama was at El Trapiche in the city center. I loved that it’s in a less touristy area of the city, but still super easy to get to (our taxi driver knew the name of the restaurant so we didn’t need to bother with directions).

This also felt like the most authentically Panamanian food in Panama City, and our waiter was really friendly and gave us some other recommendations for what to do in Panama City. Definitely stop by and try one of their sandwiches if you get the chance!

★ Have lunch at Super Gourmet in Casco Viejo

Super Gourmet is like an American style deli with a Panamanian twist. Another place well worth checking out for lunch! We both had sandwiches and ordered some cookies for takeaway, because who can resist a good old fashioned chocolate chip cookie? Definitely not me.

Granted this place was full of Americans when I visited, so you might not be getting the most “authentic” experience here. But hey, I don’t live in the US and really miss American food, so I really loved feeling like I was back home in Massachusetts for half an hour!

★ Sample the chocolate at Oro Moreno Tropical Chocolate Cafe

This is another lovely place to visit in Casco Viejo, where they make their own chocolate. They use local flavors and I seriously could have spent all afternoon sampling their amazing chocolates. You can also stay a while and get a coffee or hot chocolate to drink here.

This would also be a great place to pick up some gifts for people back home – as long as this is the end of your trip, as those chocolates will definitely be melting when you’re in San Blas.

★ Visit the golden altar at the Church of San Jose

If you visit you can read about the altar’s interesting history (which I won’t spoil here!), plus it’s right in Casco Viejo so there’s really no reason not to pop in to see it. You only really need five minutes to check out the altar, so pop in and get a quick taste of Panama’s history.

★ Have a drink at a rooftop bar in Casco Viejo

There are so many lovely rooftop bars to choose from in Casco Viejo, and they have the best views! I went to Barlovento which had a really nice vibrant yet laidback vibe. It’s definitely a backpacker hub so a great place to meet people – but don’t worry, the feel isn’t  too young. I’m in my 30s and didn’t feel too old there (unlike some other Panama City bars haha).

★ Take a walking tour of Panama City

I’m not usually one for walking tours, but Rachel loves them so she signed us up for the PTY Life Panama Detour . And it totally won me over!

We spent five hours exploring Joey’s favorite areas, stopping at food trucks, using public transport, and having cocktails at a rooftop bar. It was a great intro not just to Panama City, but to Panama as a whole, and it was really interesting to get an American expat’s perspective on the city and country.

★ Have a drink at the top of the W Hotel

I know I said to have a drink at a rooftop bar in Casco Viejo, but as part of our walking tour we also stopped at the W Hotel’s rooftop bar, which is in the new part of the city, and it was really cool to see the contrast! There’s a pool up there and it’s just a great place to hang out away from the bustle of the city below.

It’s also a bit more of a sophisticated crowd, if that’s what you’re looking for. Feel free to wear your prettiest cocktail dress here!

★ Ride the subway

And this is another thing we did on the walking tour. Panama City’s subway is actually pretty easy to navigate, it’s clean, tickets are like 30 cents and I always find riding public transport is a great way to get a feel for a new city. Just maybe try to avoid rush hour, as it can get pretty crowded.

★ Visit the Santa Ana market

If you head towards the Avenida Central from Casco Viejo you’ll get to Santa Ana, and right next to the church you’ll see a little covered market. Here you can find local handicrafts at local prices – way better than the fancier tourist boutiques in town.

We tried on local sandals, hats, and jewelry and it was such a fun way to get to know the local culture here a bit better.

★ Buy a real Panama hat

You know the iconic Panama hat that President Roosevelt made famous at the opening of the Panama Canal? Well, it’s actually from Ecuador.

If you want a real Panama hat you’ll need to go to a local market (like the Santa Ana market mentioned above) and look for a straw hat with black stripes. I think they’re actually cuter, plus Panamanians will get excited to see you sporting a real Panama hat, so it’s a great way to make friends!

★ Get a sim card on Avenida Central

I know a lot of people prefer to disconnect while traveling, but if you’re not one of those people, it’s super easy to buy a sim card in Panama City. Though if you don’t want to bring along your passport to register the new sim card, just buy one from one of the many phone shops along Avenida Central.

They don’t register them here, and a Digicel sim card will cost you $1. Then I paid $5 for each week I wanted service for, which gave me unlimited data (!!). So for $11 I got a sim card with unlimited data that I could use for two weeks in Panama. I had pretty good service too – it was only on San Blas that I lost connection.

★ Stop by Cafe Coca Cola

Apparently this diner has been around so long that Coca Cola doesn’t mind that it’s borrowed their name.

★ Have lunch at Mahalo

This Hawaiian themed restaurant in Casco Viejo is super cute, plus the food was pretty good too! I had a hummus platter (I can’t get good hummus in Norway!) and Rachel had a curry. Definitely check out Mahalo if you’re in need of a meal. The greenery and tikka bar also make the perfect backdrop from and Instagram post, just saying.

★ Take an eco adventure through the Gamboa Rainforest

Did you know that Panama City is on the edge of a rainforest? You can take a day tour like this one through the rainforest to see some exciting wildlife, or this aerial tram tour through the rainforest. I didn’t actually have time to do this, but I really regret not seeing a bit of Panama’s rainforest, so it will be at the top of my list the next time I visit Panama.

★ Visit an Embera Village

I’m not really one for village tours as they tend to make me feel a little uncomfortable, but if you’re interested you can take a day trip out to a traditional Embera village, including a canoe ride up a river and a walk to a jungle waterfall. You can book a tour here .

Visit the San Blas Islands

Over my travels through some eighty countries around the world, I haven’t come across many places that look as picture-perfectly like paradise as the San Blas islands. In fact I think the only place that could maybe rival it was my boat trip island hopping through Indonesia, and then I was sort of really lucky my boat didn’t sink so… if you’re looking for a safer journey to paradise, San Blas is perfect!

I’ve also written a whole blog post about my three days sailing in San Blas , including everything you need to know when planning a trip to San Blas. I found the process of planning our trip there quite confusing as there was a lot of conflicting information online, so here I’ve tried to break it down for you, because actually getting to San Blas is really simple.

I definitely think that sailing on a private catamaran is the best way to see San Blas, so if you’re looking for something to splurge on for your trip to Panama, this is it. I mean, when else are you going to be able to sail through paradise on your own private catamaran? Unless that’s the sort of life you already lead, in which case I’m jealous tell me your secrets!

And on that note, if you only have time to visit one place in Panama, I’d choose San Blas. It’s just so unique and I’m already dreaming of returning one day. The beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, and the culture is so relaxed and calming.

I also loved getting away from cell signal for a few days and totally unwinding without worrying about my emails and work obligations. Because I’m totally the type of person who would book a relaxing holiday at a resort and then spend my time lying on the beach checking my phone every twenty minutes. So bad! So if I really want to disconnect and truly relax, I need to get somewhere where I can’t even check my phone – and for me San Blas was that place.

Talk to locals

I was a little nervous about my lack of Spanish skills (or more like guilty – what American doesn’t speak any Spanish??), but everyone I met in Panama was so laidback and friendly that communication was never a problem. Most people spoke really good English, and it turns out Spanish is kind of just a better enunciated version of French/Latin – who knew? (Everyone knew.)

And the people in Panama really are so nice. They’re clearly proud of where they come from and were always eager to hear where else we had visited and what we thought about the country. Like, I’m getting a huge smile on my face just thinking back to the conversations I had with locals in Panama.

Take taxis without worrying about getting ripped off

Speaking of friendly Panamanians, never have I ever traveled anywhere with such nice taxi drivers! And long time readers here will know that I’m not a fan of taxi drivers. But all of our drivers here were so friendly and never argued over prices with us. It was so refreshing to be able to take taxis without stressing over finding one, or finding one that wouldn’t hugely overcharge me.

Fingers crossed I’m not jinxing my taxi ride to the airport later today…

Enjoy being safe

I mean, there are safe and unsafe areas in any country, but as a whole I never felt like I needed to worry while traveling through Panama. People were friendly and helpful and I felt really comfortable wherever I went.

Relax – Panama is so easy

In fact if I were to sum up my sixteen days in Panama in one word it would be “easy.” I don’t mean that in a boring way, but I cannot remember the last time I had such an effortless trip through a country I didn’t live in – much less where I didn’t even speak the local language.

Transport was a breeze, they use the US dollar here so I didn’t have to worry about currency conversions, all of our accommodation was amazing – like, I can’t think of any big stresses I had on this trip.

Explore Panama’s idyllic island escapes

I already mentioned San Blas, but Panama has so many other gorgeous island escapes. I also spent four days on Isla Palenque on the Gulf of Chiriqui and four days on Isla Bastimentos in Bocas del Toro, and would have loved to visit the Pearl Islands and more islands on the Gulf of Chiriqui.

Isla Palenque felt like my own secluded island in the middle of nowhere – I seriously felt like I was a character in a novel staying here! The vegetation was so unique, the water perfect, and I think my time on the island was the most relax I’ve been all year.

Plus how stunning is this bungalow? I loved how they combined traditional and modern here and it had all the luxuries I wanted while still feeling like an authentic island escape. And each bungalow is surrounded by trees so it felt like we were totally alone on the island – until we went to the pool and restaurant, which was like the social center of the island.

Look out for sloths!

Rachel and I thought we wouldn’t see a sloth here because we had opted against taking a tour to see them or visiting a sloth refuge, so imagine our surprise when one morning we passed a group of people at our resort in Bocas del Toro and realized they were all pointing at a sloth who had (very slowly) wandered into their yard.

I’ve seen so many YouTube videos of sloths (who hasn’t?) but there’s nothing like seeing one in real life – they are such funny creatures! It was like watching a cartoon or something, except this was real life.

Drink all the coffee

To be honest I don’t know much about coffee and generally will enjoy a cup of instant coffee just as much as some fancy brew, but it was still fun to hear Panamanians talk about their local coffee beans. We spent two days in Boquete, which apparently gets referred to as the Napa Valley of coffee.

I tried the famous Geisha coffee, which is really exclusive, and to be honest it tasted just like normal coffee to me, but other people told me it was some of the best coffee they’ve ever tasted. So if you have more refined taste than mine you’ll probably love it.

I also really loved how there are so many cafes in Boquete. I might not be into coffee, but I love the atmosphere of a coffee shop (and the pastries!), and Boquete has some truly lovely ones.

Stop by Boquete

Speaking of Boquete , there’s a lot more to this highland town than coffee! It feels totally different than Panama’s coastal areas, and offers lots of hikes, ziplining, and even hot springs. It’s also a big expat hub, which is great news for anyone craving an American-style turkey sandwich.

Boquete also was a favorite of old Hollywood stars, so you can feel like a total celeb hanging out here.

Go to Boquete Tree Trek

If you’re up for an adventure, definitely check out Boquete Tree Trek ! Here you can go ziplining and walk along the Cloud Forest’s famous hanging bridges.

Have a meal at Boulder 54 in Boquete

I talk more about places to eat in Boquete in my Boquete travel guide here , but Boulder 54 deserved an extra mention because it was one of the best meals I had in Panama! The atmosphere was lovely, and each dish was beautifully crafted.

It’s a new restaurant so you can feel like you’re truly in the know by going, and while I was there they had live music. This is definitely the sort of place to get a little dressed up for, if you feel like it! It was also a great place for eavesdropping on the expat crowd here – it turns out there’s quite a lot of gossip in Boquete – who knew?

Travel Panama on any budget

While you can travel fairly cheaply through Panama on the backpacker trail, there are also lots of mid-range and family options, as well as some seriously gorgeous luxury hotels. And the same goes with transport – most places it seemed like you could take the local bus on the cheap, a tourist shuttle for a bit more, a private car for more, Air Panama domestic flights, or even charter a private plane to get you where you want to go.

Or another popular option here is to rent a car for a road trip!

Eat all the food

I’m new to Central American food so I can’t really say if it’s better in Panama than in other parts of the region, but seriously, so much yum. My favorite food was in Panama City, though I also didn’t mind dining on freshly caught lobster every night in San Blas.

I was also impressed by all the options most places.

Cover a diverse range of landscapes

When we originally started planning this trip we thought we’d spend about a week in Panama and then head into Costa Rica, until we realized how much there actually is to see in Panama. Remember how I said we had to redraft our Panama itinerary so many times? It was just so difficult to narrow down where to go in Panama when there is such a diverse range of options there.

From the deserted islands of San Blas to the skyscrapers of Panama City, the highlands of Boquete, and the backpacker party scene on Bocas del Toro, it feels like we visited about five different countries on this Panama trip. And that’s what makes Panama such a good introduction to Central America as well. It really feels like you’re getting a taste of all sorts of aspects of the region.

But if you don’t have much time, my personal favorite areas to explore where Panama City, San Blas, and the Pacific islands. San Blas would probably top the list because the beaches and water there is just unreal, though Panama City is a close second – I’d say it’s one of my favorite cities that I’ve visited in a long time!

Visit both the Caribbean and Pacific

Speaking of Panama’s diverse offerings, you can also hang out on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts while here!

Everyone warned me that the Pacific is a disappointment after the Caribbean, but I actually really loved my time on the Pacific. It was quieter with fewer tourists (and fewer hotels – so book in advance), the weather was a bit more stormy, but during the day we still had enough sun for me to get sunburnt, as usual. I actually found the thunderstorms at night really exciting, plus it meant that it wouldn’t get too hot.

But if it’s white sand beaches and turquoise water you’re looking for, then you really need to head to San Blas. I mean, everyone needs to visit San Blas once in their lifetime, if they can. It’s really like a true-life paradise! It’s hard to believe how close it is to the US. Like, I used to think you had to go way out into the Pacific Ocean to find water and beaches like that.

And definitely check out the Gulf of Chiriqui

Speaking of the Pacific, you can read more about my time on the Gulf of Chiriqui here , but for now I’ll just say that if you’re looking for an idyllic island escape, definitely come here. It felt like being on a deserted island, and was definitely the most unique experience I had in Panama.

Like, I think most people visiting Panama go to Panama City, San Blas, Bocas del Toro, and even Boquete, but I don’t know many people who ventured down to the Gulf of Chiriqui. And the culture there seems quite unique too. The islanders have their own history and traditions, and seem very proud of their little corner of the country. And for good reason! The Gulf of Chiriqui is seriously stunning.

In fact, if you’re looking for a quiet getaway – or even a honeymoon retreat! – you could consider heading straight to Isla Palenque. Sure, you’d miss out on a lot of Panama’s other offerings, but you could also skip the exhausting of traveling all over the country and simply bliss out on the beach. I would love to return with my boyfriend someday and just hang out on the beach all week.

See whales on the Gulf of Chiriqui

If you visit the Gulf of Chiriqui between July and October you’ll have the chance to spot the humpback whales that have come from both the north and south poles to give birth!

I had gone on whale watching tours in Africa and Norway before so I wasn’t sure if this would just feel like more of the same, but I swear, seeing whales in real life will never get old. They’re so enormous, it’s really crazy to get so close to them and watch them surfacing and then diving down to find food.

so I’m probably not going to quit blogging to become a wildlife photographer

Go snorkeling on the Pearl Islands

I really wish I had squeezed in a trip to the Pearl Islands – especially considering you can even go as a day tour from Panama City! This tour here will take you snorkeling on the Pearl Islands, and it really does look like such a dreamy escape.

I spoke with some expats in Panama City who go to the Pearl Islands at least once a year, and they said it’s an insider’s favorite in Panama. And transport there is really well organized so you don’t need to stress about making your way down there.

Have a grown up holiday on Bocas del Toro

You guys, Bocas del Toro is not just for backpackers! You can read about my relaxing holiday at Red Frog Beach Resort here . The resort is huge, with beautiful landscape (this is also where I saw the sloth!), plus they organize lots of day trips around Bocas so you’ll never be bored.

Though to be honest I mostly just wanted to be an old woman and lounge at the pool and the beach, haha. It was just so relaxing there. They take care of absolutely everything for you – they have several restaurants, a spa, and the activity organizers are really helpful with recommendations based on what sort of holiday you’re looking for.

Or party it up on Bocas del Toro

Of course, if you do what to party with the backpacker crowd, you will love Bocas del Toro. Try to come on a Friday for their famous island hopping party.

We met some backpackers in Panama City who had just spent a few weeks traveling around Panama on a budget and they said that the best partying was on Bocas del Toro. If I were looking to party, I’d probably make Bocas town my base, as it has a strong nightlife of its own and then you can organizing island hopping tours from there.

Explore a working chocolate farm in Bocas del Toro

If you like chocolate, you can check out how it’s harvested and made! A few people I spoke to said this chocolate farm tour was a highlight of their time in Panama.

I’ve done chocolate tours in other countries so I decided to skip it here, but based on my experience in other places I can say that seeing the whole process of how chocolate is made is so interesting – especially if you are as obsessed with chocolate as I am.

Enjoy a boutique accommodation paradise

While my hostel days are long gone , I’m not a huge fan of the big chain luxury hotels that look the same regardless of what country you’re in, so I was so excited to find so many beautiful boutique hotels in Panama! Each featured such beautiful and unique designs that I sort of want to say that each and every hotel I stayed at in Panama was my favorite.

The American Trade Hotel is perfect old school luxury and has an interesting history of its own. While Las Clementinas offers gorgeous apartments that will make you feel like a local – well, a local living in a super stylish apartment getting breakfast baskets delivered to your room each morning. Can this be my life forever?

3 Things NOT to do in Panama

But what should you skip out on in Panama?

I would highly recommend NOT visiting the San Blas Islands at the start of your Panama trip. You see, I visited them first, and they sort of ruined the rest of Panama’s islands for me, because nothing else can compare to San Blas. So try to save the best for last, if you can.

San Blas is such a special experience, but I feel like I couldn’t fully appreciate it because I was still so excited for the rest of my Panama trip. Whereas if I had saved it for last I would have realized that it was the best part of Panama.

I would also avoid booking accommodation in Bocas del Toro on Airbnb. I usually love Airbnb, but I had a bit of a nightmare experience trying to book this place , and I heard from other travelers that they had similar problems in Bocas del Toro. It was just such an unnecessary stress in an otherwise totally stress free trip planning process.

And finally, don’t just visit Panama City and skip the rest of the country! Panama City is a great starting point, but if I had only visited the city I really don’t think I would have left with an accurate impression of Panama. The beaches are really where it’s at!

Or if you only have time for Panama City, promise that you’ll come back to explore Panama’s islands one day. I promise it’s worth it!

Though I feel like I should add that I’m also SO happy I made time for the city. When I first started planning my Panama trip I figured the best of Panama would be at the beach, but now I know that the country has amazing things to offer from beaches to cities to highlands to the rainforest – you really will fall in love with Panama if you give it a chance. That’s a promise!

Getting to Panama

As a US/Norwegian citizen, I could visit Panama for up to 180 days without a visa.

I flew KLM from Amsterdam direct to Tocumen International Airport and it was a really easy, straightforward flight. When you exit the airport there will be a lot of people trying to get to take their taxi. I ignored them and walked straight through the crowd and found a driver who wasn’t hassling me, but my friend Rachel took one of the first people and we both ended up paying the same (I think it was $20 to my hotel downtown).

And I really loved flying out of PTY. They’ve just redone it and there are lots of American chain restaurants – which was very exciting for me as an American living abroad, haha. I definitely had my fill of bagel sandwiches at their Dunkin Donuts!

Packing for Panama

Panama is super laidback, so you can really wear whatever you want here. I lived in dresses and shorts, as it was so hot here.

Oh and be sure to bring sunblock and a hat (or buy a hat in Panama City!), as the sun here is no joke. I got so burnt on San Blas, it was really bad.

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Justine says

August 31, 2018 at 4:09 pm

I’m severely missing Latin America. I did a two-month trip through Central America years ago but we didn’t make it to El Salvador or Panama. But Panama has always called my name. Hopefully someday soon I’ll be able to actually get back to that amazing region of the world. Following your and Rachel’s trip is sparking some serious wanderlust in me!!

Silvia says

August 31, 2018 at 6:32 pm

Yeah it’s been so crazy exploring a new region – I feel like my wanderlust has been reawakened now too and I need to see all of Central and South America!

Victoria@TheBritishBerliner says

September 3, 2018 at 6:18 am

Wow! ‘Love the post Silvia!

I haven’t yet been to Panama or even Central America. And I have absolutely no idea why!

But isn’t it cool that you literally bumped into seeing a sloth casually wandering along the yard, and minding it’s own business, doing what sloths do.

That’s travel!

September 5, 2018 at 4:54 pm

Ooooh I want to go to Panama too now! And the f it’s easy and safe, it will also be the perfect place to take my boyfriend :).

Your statement about Spanish made me laugh! LOL 🙂 But seriously, Panama will also be great for mi novio qui (que?) no habla español :). What’s the weather like there? As in, how hot and how wet?

Can’t wait to read the rest of this series and find out where that gorgeous organic roof with a cool modern white box underneath is!

September 12, 2018 at 2:33 pm

It was very hot – like around 30 I think – but also quite cloudy so it rarely felt unbearably hot. I was there in rainy season but most days it only rained for part of the day and then the sun would come back out.

April 2, 2019 at 5:35 am

Nice post!! I’ve been living in Panama for the last 10 years and there’s too much to do and incredible places to visit. My recommendation for your next trip to Panama: Visit El Otro Lado Private Retreat at Portobelo Bay. Portobelo is a small town, 1.5 hours away from Panama City on the Caribbean Coast. This is where all de treasures from latin america were shipped to Spain in the colonial times, so it has a lot of history about the conquest, the treasures and the real pirates of the caribbean, such as Francis Drake (who died in Portobelo) and Morgan. It was declared as Unesco World Heritage Site and the Congo Culture (Art expressions of the slave descendants) was declared by Unesco as intangible world heritage.

The crystal caribbean beaches, the nature, adventures, hiking on the ruins of old forts, the culture.. Its a place you should visit on your next trip.

Michelle M says

July 11, 2019 at 4:53 am

Loved your advice and read this just before my last trip to Panama. My boyfriend and I took your advice and bought some Panama hats but they got totally destroyed in the rain on the way to an island by boat lol. Probably best to save the Panama hats for dry season! Thanks for your post, I wanted to show you everything we did during our time in Panama, thanks to what you shared here! https://youtu.be/5yabOTcm5Wk

Luis A says

July 27, 2019 at 2:34 am

I am very happy you had a unique time in Panama.

I wanted to say that you guys were lucky with the Taxi drivers. It is better for a tourist to take a uber or consult the prices with their local hostel, hotel, or BB before taking them.

Besides that, got To Panama

Glenn S Richardson says

October 12, 2019 at 8:30 pm

Planning to visit Panama for the momth of Feb. 2020. Can I wing it , or should I make reservations in Panama City and other touristed areas? Thanks, Glenn

October 14, 2019 at 10:37 pm

I would keep an eye on accommodation and see if things start booking up, otherwise you can probably wing it if you aren’t picky about where you stay.

Mike Troublefield says

January 26, 2020 at 1:41 am

Feb. Is a great month to visit if you enjoy golf. The North American Korn Ferry your is in town near pty. Besides golf still a great time to visit .

Jeanne Urban says

November 26, 2019 at 4:27 am

we plan to travel a lot in-country an are wondering…did you rent a car and travel on your own or take buses or fly from one place to the other? what is your recommendation. thank you

November 26, 2019 at 4:01 pm

I love it. Panama is my native country but I left when I was just 18 years old. I am 44 and I cannot remember much. It has changed a lot and it sounds just like paradise

December 30, 2019 at 9:42 pm

I totally agree with you! And Bocas and AirBnB is a huge No! Learned the hard way 🤣

February 12, 2020 at 8:19 pm

What an excellent run-down of what to do in Panama! I definitely agree with you on the San Blas Islands, that’s one of the most magical places in the world.

David Hatfield says

March 15, 2020 at 4:22 pm

Nice article! I married a Panamanian woman 30 years ago and have spent a lot of time there- we even built a retirement home in Playa Santa Clara about 12 years ago. I would also recommend to your readers that they take time to visit the surfing villages in Playa Venao- a fun, bohemian location where lots of young travelers meet.

May 7, 2020 at 2:00 am

Great list! Thanks for sharing! My family loves visiting Panama City!

Ho Lien says

May 12, 2020 at 4:36 pm

You have nice pic and memories Unfortunately Getting Panama from Vietnam not easy 🙂 Thank for your great post

Dinora says

August 21, 2020 at 12:31 am

Hi guys!!! Omg thank you very much for all the beautiful things you wrote about my country, hope you guys come again after this whole covid situation goes away… And if any of you have any question about Panama, feel free to ask me, I’ll be happy to answer you 🙂 My gmail is [email protected]

August 2, 2021 at 2:52 pm

one place that you forgot to mention or to visit is: Isla Iguana.

its not as good as San Blas, however you get the feeling of the pacific ocean and the sorrounding area of Isla Iguana is a must.

October 29, 2021 at 3:09 pm

Amazing blog, please keep on writing blogs like this.

Cathy Turner says

March 17, 2022 at 2:22 am

Hi, I’m thinking of going to Panama in May 2022 with my son. We will be going probably only for 5 days. I would like to make the most out of my trip. Son has other things he has to do. I was going to tag along with him until I read what you wrote. Can you give my any info of what I can see in such a short time please? Thank you, Cathy

Alex I says

April 7, 2022 at 9:52 am

I am traveling to Panama May 7-11 and extremely excited to take in as much as i can during that period.

April 12, 2023 at 1:07 am

What vaccines do you need to visit??

July 19, 2023 at 3:52 pm

Your blog serves as a reminder to live life to the fullest and embrace new experiences.

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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

Click Here for City Guides

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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Places to Visit in Panamá

With over 1,400 islands, coastlines spanning 1,800 miles of breathtaking beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean; and mountain ranges that divide the country north and south providing distinctive climates and ecosystems; there are seemingly endless options for places to visit in Panamá. Take your pick of rainforest adventures in a biodiverse wonderland or cultural pursuits in cities big and small.

‌The snake-like shape of Panamá, facilitates easy travel, and it is also why Panamá is the only country where you can see the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean and set on the Atlantic Ocean on the same day.

‌The diversity of Panamá makes it a destination you will want to return to, for repeat visits, and our friendly people will warmly welcome you to explore Panamá.

Panama City

Beautiful beaches and idyllic islands aren’t the only treasures to be found in Panama. Panama City...

Bocas Del Toro

Representing Panama’s vibrant Caribbean culture, the Bocas Del Toro province comprises part of...

Boquete is a colorful, wooded valley surrounded by the mountains of Chiriquí, in northwestern...

Tierras Altas

The Tierras Altas region is a quite different place from the rest of Panamá. It is a mountainous...

Riviera Pacifica

The Riviera Pacifica extends along the Pan-American Highway, a 25 mile (40 km) stretch of road...

Pedasí & Tonosí

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Pacific Coast of Veraguas

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In the north of Panama, on the beautiful blue shores of the Caribbean, you’ll find a small town...

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Indigenous communities.

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Afro Heritage

Afro culture in Panamá is a vibrant and essential part of the country's cultural mosaic....

Cultural & Historic Sites

Panamá connects the world, and not only because it’s the bridge between North and...

Rural and Agrotourism

Agricultural tourism in Panamá is a unique adventure in the heart of nature. During this...

Panamá is the isthmus connecting Central America and South America, and offers access to both...

With world record fishing, more than 2,900 km (1,800 miles) of coastline and the perfect...

Rich in tropical flora, diverse wildlife, and picture-worthy sights, Panamá trails offer...

Birdwatching

Panamá is home and a place of pilgrimage to more than 1,000 bird species. The tropical...

Panamá is a surfer’s haven. We welcome you to the stunning shores of our fishing...

Diving & Snorkeling

Discover the magical and incredible Panamanian marine world while snorkeling and diving. Diverse...

Turtle Sanctuaries

On the Sandy shores of Panamá, sea turtles live, grow, and thrive under our warm sun and safe...

Whale Watching

10 Incredible Things to Do in Panama on Your First Visit

Fun Things to Do in Panama

Panama makes a great Central American destination to explore whether you have just a layover or two weeks!

Here are some things to do in Panama that we really enjoyed on our first visit – spanning everything from local history, hot spots of the capital city, local Panamanian cuisine and an unforgettable day trip!

Keep reading for more fun things to do in Panama!

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Where to Stay in Panama

We chose to stay in  Casco Viejo , the UNESCO World Heritage town just outside modern day Panama City.

If you’re visiting Panama for business and want a high rise, modern hotel, stay in Panama City. If you’re looking for charm and colonial architecture, stay in Casco Viejo!

We loved it and especially loved our stay at the American Trade Hotel . It's a beautiful landmark building, right on Plaza Herrera in a prime location. The hotel is decorated stunningly, our room was incredible and there's even a pool on the rooftop!

Read more:   Our Stay at the American Trade: Hotel Review

Book: Booking.com , Hotels.com

Check rates: TripAdvisor

Best Things to Do in Panama City, Panama

1. explore the colonial old town of casco viejo.

Casco Viejo was our favorite neighborhood in Panama City.

The town was settled in 1673 and is characterized by beautiful old world Spanish architecture. Local poor families were once the only residents of the town’s condemned buildings.

But today commercial development is turning once grumbling buildings into trendy hotels, bars and restaurants.

We chose to base ourselves in Casco Viejo over Panama City at the American Trade Hotel . You can read our in-depth review of the landmark  here .

2. Try Geisha Coffee

Geisha coffee is one of the best beans in the world, producing an aromatic and floral flavor.

You might have heard of Kopi Luwak from Indonesia or Blue Mountain beans from Jamaica … well Geisha beans from Panama are even more prized!

Technically, Geisha coffee isn’t local to Panama – it’s believed to have originated in Ethiopia.

But after it was brought to the country’s mountainous Boquete region, Panamanian coffee plantations began to produce some of the finest Geisha coffee in the world!

Sher’s Tip

Cafe Unido (next to the American Trade Hotel) is one of the few cafes in Panama City to offer entirely local coffee. Unido offers pour overs of Geisha in addition to standard cold brews, espressos and pastries.

3. Visit the Panama Canal

You can’t visit Panama and skip the Panama Canal !

About 20 minutes from Panama City, Miraflores Visitor Center is a four story interactive museum with a short film and outdoor viewing deck overlooking the Miraflores locks. Tickets for the Panama Canal can be purchased here .

Try to time your visit when a cargo or cruise ship is passing through and watch how the locks fill up and down to enable transit! It was so fun to watch in action and the museum does a great job of explaining the Panama Canal construction, management and history.

4. Day Trip to the San Blas Islands

If you’re looking for beautiful, uninhabited islands with white sand beaches and crystal blue waters, take a day trip to the San Blas Islands !

There are over 365 islands in the archipelago and traditionally the area was called the Guna Yala islands after the Guna indigenous people who live there.

San Blas is located on Panama’s north coast and is roughly a 2 hour drive from Panama City, so the easiest way to visit is via private charter (we booked a tour ).

Make sure to bring your passport as the Guna have a security check before allowing visitors to drive to the port. Although it was quite a trek, the islands are wonderfully sunny and snorkelers will love the coral reefs.

5. Buy a Panama Hat

Fun fact : did you know that we usually call a Panama Hat, those light colored brimmed hats, are originally from Ecuador?

Panama hats have never been made in Panama but you can buy them all over the city from souvenir shops. The hats are traditionally made from plaiting a local palm plant and you can judge the quality of a Panama Hat by the tightness of the weave. The finest are called Montecristis, after the town in which they are produced.

Sher’s Tip:  If you’re looking for a truly Panamanian souvenir, head to French Park Monument in Casco Viejo.

Up the steps and behind the monument you’ll find local Panamanians and indigenous Kuna women selling Mola. Mola are these colorful geometric cloth patterns that Kuna Indians traditionally wear. You can purchase a square cloth of Mola or a pillow made from the pattern.

6. Sip Rum at Pedro Mandinga

We stumbled on this adorable pink building while wandering Casco Viejo and discovered to our delight that it is Panama’s first artisanal rum distellery!

In late afternoon, this place comes alive with drinkers casually tasting local cocktails, hanging out with friends and having a great time.

Sher’s Tip: A couple other places we loved in Casco Viejo:

Casacasco , a recently restored white building on Plaza Herrera (it used to be a hostel!). Head up to the roof for epic views or grab bottle service at the swanky levels inside.

Tantalo is another great spot for nightlife, with a casual restaurant serving excellent sandwiches for lunch during the day and a rooftop club at night. They were advertising a Mykonos White Party in November for anyone who will be visiting Panama later this fall!

7. Visit Panama City (the metropolis)

While Casco Viejo packs charm, Panama City wields urban splendor.

For a look at local life, head to the pedestrian walkway at Avenida Central and experience the vibrant cacophony or people, street stands, art and noise. Swing around to Cinta Costera, the city’s waterfront development park where you can enjoy views of the beach, people watch, grab an ice cream or join in on a game of football/soccer/tennis/etc.

This Panama City tour takes you to all of the city’s highlights: Ancon Hill with its incredible views over the city, a local artisan market to shop for Panamanian made souvenirs and a walk through Puna Culebra, the Smithsonian owned museum in Panama.

Sher’s Tip:  Looking for the third “Panama City”?

If you want to see the first Panama City settlement, head to Panama Viejo where you can find the smoldering ruins of the 17th century city. Depending on who you ask, Pirate Henry Morgan sacked the city looting for gold or clever Panamanians destroyed the city to thwart him… and then promptly asked for a helpful gold donation to rebuild!

8. Pay Respects to the Gold Altar at Iglesia San Jose

Panama is a predominantly Catholic town, due to its Spanish heritage.

There are a number of really beautiful churches throughout Casco Viejo but the most famous is Iglesia San Jose for its altar of gold. The gigantic altar piece is carved from mahagony and overlaid with gold leaf.

The altar was originally located in the original Panama Viejo town , but legend holds that quick-thinking Jesuit priests painted the altar black to hide it from pirates.

After Henry Morgan left Panama in frustration, the altar was moved piece by piece to its current location.

The pope made his way to Panama City in 2019 and visited this church!

Sher’s Tip:  We visited as part of a Casco Viejo walking tour . Even if you’re not religious, there’s a lot of history in Panama’s old churches. Here’s some other famous churches in Panama:

• the Convent of Old Santo Domino – after two fires destroyed the interior and roof, the building is just ruins today  but occasionally hosts musical concerts and weddings
• Iglesia de la Merced – constructed in 1673, this baroque church was transported piece by piece from Panama Vieja to its current location.
• Catedral Metropolitana – there’s a beautiful altar piece hidden in this church

9. Learn about Panama’s Biodiversity

Panama’s unique geography as a bridge between North and South America is the focus of this fun museum .

Designed in eight colorful sections by architect Frank Gehry, it’s a fascinating look at how the isthmus of Panama was formed and the repercussions on flora and fauna development in the Americas. There are some really interactive exhibits in the Biomuseo and it’s worth a visit, especially if you have kids!

10. Try Local Panamanian Food

Try some local food while you’re in Panama – it’s amazing!

Panamanians typically eat chicken and rice (arroz con pollo), plantains, yuca and seafood. Some of our favorites were ceviche (of course) and petacones, fried green plantains topped with octopus or other meats.

The best way to taste great food in Panama is on a local food tour !

We also tried lots of fun drinks (they really know how to make their cocktails in Panama!) and the local beers, Balboa and Atlas.

And that’s it! Hope you enjoy your visit to Panama!

Visiting Panama – Travel Checklist

Flights | Copa Airlines, the national Panamanian airline, offers non-stop flights from select US cities. We hopped on a direct flight out of New York City's JFK Airport and arrived 5 hours later.  Check for flight deals and routes here .

Accommodation | After arriving in Panama City's Tocumen International Airport, you can opt to stay in Panama City or head to the Old Town of Casco Viejo. Check here for last minute hotel deals .

We found Panama City to be quite safe and would highly recommend staying in Casco Viejo for its charm and history. It's approximately a 20-30 min taxi ride from Panama City Airport. Be prepared for a slower exit out of Tocumen International, as they scan all bags with your person (like in Mexico).

Currency | Panama's currency is pegged to the U.S. dollar and therefore all prices are 1:1. There's no need to change money and in fact, little need to carry large sums of cash. We were happily surprised to discover that credit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, museums, etc and all our bills were charged directly in USD.

Insurance | Be sure not to visit Panama without travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, or your phone gets stolen (C managed to lose his for the second time in 2 weeks), travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a  quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Panama Vacation Planning Articles

Travel Tips: The Ultimate Panama Travel Guide

Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Panama

10 Fun Things to do in Panama

Activities & Where to Stay

20 Interesting Facts About Panama  I Bet You Never Knew These!

Seeing the Panama Canal  & Why It's Worth Visiting!

The American Trade Hotel : One of Our Favorite Boutique Hotels

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I absolutely loved Panama and am trying to organise a second visit. I particularly enjoyed the Bocas del Toro.

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I would love to see one of the great big cruise ships go through the Panama Canal – I’ve had friends who have worked on ships who have gone through and they say it’s a pretty neat experience, an pretty precise too, as sometimes there’s just a foot of space on either side of the boat.

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Panama: A Unique Travel Destination That Has It All

Panama stands apart from all the places you could visit. Not only does it connect two continents, but it also offers a mix of amazing nature and interesting culture. I had the opportunity to visit different cities in Panama as a tourist, and there is no other country where I feel more welcome. Panama is one of the only countries on the American continents whose economy has always been based on tourism and the service sector, so it is part of their culture to make foreigners feel welcome. Three places that are top in my opinion are Rio Hato, Panama City, and Isla San Blas.  

Rio Hato is one of the most unique places I have ever visited because I was able to enjoy the beach in the afternoon and go hiking around the volcano in the morning. Just two hours from Panama City airport. Driving is recommended for three reasons: you’ll see beautiful scenery, try authentic food, and connect with locals. Rio Hato is the ideal destination for those who are unsure whether they want an adventurous or peaceful vacation. Also, this place is very budget friendly. Rio Hato is home to a variety of hotels and resorts, some of which are all-inclusive, meaning you don’t have to leave the hotel because they offer nightclubs, children’s performances, a variety of restaurants, and adventure packages for a low cost. Some of the resorts I have stayed at with my family that I recommend are Royal Decameron, Hotel Riu Playa Blanca, and Red Frog Beach Island. Rio Hato is ideal since it is so diverse that you don’t feel the need to adjust to the surroundings because they adapt to your needs.  

Panama City is a beautiful city that doesn’t have anything to envy about other first-world cities. Tourists like the city because there is a balance between learning about the history behind the country and being able to enjoy the modernity that it has to offer. Panama City has one of the most iconic engineering marvels in the world, the Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Panama City’s population has been diverse since they started building the canal. A lot of the workers were foreigners, and a large percentage of the population is bilingual, so there is not much of a language barrier. If I were to give you a recommendation, it would be to buy a package that takes you to Panama Viejo and the Panama Canal. Personally, these are the two attractions I recommend the most if you are going for a short period of time.  

The San Blas Islands are known for their clear water, awesome beaches, and lots of green trees and plants. Islas San Blas is home to the indigenous Guna people; the islands showcase vibrant culture and tradition through colorful huts and textiles. You can do fun stuff like swimming, chilling on the beach, and learning cool things about Guna culture. It’s a calm and peaceful place where you can enjoy nature and learn new stuff. Isla San Blas gives you the opportunity to choose between staying in your hotel and enjoying their amenities or going on adventures and trying to immerse yourself in the Guna culture.  

Panama is a wonderful place to visit because it has a bit of everything: beautiful beaches, fascinating culture, and friendly people. Rio Hato is great if you want both beach time and adventure, while Panama City offers a mix of history and modern life, with must-see spots like the Panama Canal. And then there are the San Blas Islands, known for their stunning beaches and the chance to learn about the indigenous Guna culture. No matter where you go in Panama, you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring and enjoying the welcoming atmosphere. 

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4 Countries That Offer the Most Incentives To Retire There

M any Americans view foreign countries simply as places to visit, but a few who are “in the know” understand that they can be great places to retire as well .

Florida’s Retirees Are Fleeing: Here’s Where They’re Going Instead

Check: 3 Ways To Recession-Proof Your Retirement

In addition to offering a different culture, many countries specifically court foreigners by providing financial and lifestyle incentives to retire there. Retiring abroad is a major life decision, and you’ll have to keep your eyes open to all the pluses and minuses that come with spending your golden years overseas. But it’s worth taking a look at the perks that you can take advantage of if you decide to take that step.

Here are some of the countries offering the most incentives to retire there.

Panama has become a mecca for American retirees, thanks in part to its warm climate and relatively inexpensive cost of living. But its Pensionado Visa is the one against which most other countries are measured. Retirees who qualify are granted a host of benefits, including:

• 50% discount for expenses or closing fees on financial transactions for commercial or personal loans
• Exemption from payment of SFIC transactions in personal and commercial loans
• 15% discount on personal and commercial loans on their names
• 1% discount on the interest rate of mortgages for housing for personal use
• 50% discount on passports
• 25% discount on domestic and international airline tickets
• 50% discount on hotel rooms Monday through Thursday and 30% discount on weekends
• 20% discount on prescription drugs
• 15% discount on dental and optometry exams
• 30% discount on intercity buses, boats, ships and trains
• 25% discount on food in restaurants
• 15% discount in fast-food restaurants, if those are national or international franchises
• 15% discount of the total bill for services in hospitals and private clinics
• 20% discount on physicians and surgeon fees
• 20% discount on fees for technical and professional services
• 20% discount on all prostheses and all devised and assistive accessories as well
• 25% discount on electricity, telephone and water bills
• 50% discount on recreation and leisure activities such as movies, concerts, theaters, sporting events and other public events every day
• 50% discount on airport tax
• 20% discount on coffins and urns
• Exoneration from import tax (only once) on all goods, belongings and appliances for personal use up to the value of $10,000
• Exoneration of the import tax of one car every two years.

This long list of benefits outclasses every other visa offered by a foreign nation to American expats, and you don’t even officially have to move to Panama to qualify. As long as you spend at least one day in the country per year, you can maintain your visa status.

The Annual Global Retirement Index 2022 dubbed Portugal one of the five best places to retire overseas — and with good reason. A high quality of life, low cost of living and a generous retirement visa all play important roles. With a Portugal visa, you’ll have access to the company’s healthcare system, educational system for any dependents and the opportunity to acquire permanent resident status after five years.

If you’re 45 or older with a retirement income of at least $2,000 monthly, you may qualify for the Belize Qualified Retirement Program. By meeting just a few other requirements, including staying for at least 30 consecutive days in Belize at least once per year, you can gain access to a host of benefits, from residency status and duty exemptions to tax exemptions, dependent benefits and land purchasing rights.

The beautiful beaches, affordable lifestyle and English-speaking population all add to the appeal of retirement in Belize.

The Philippines

The sun-soaked Philippines are very friendly to foreigners, particularly in terms of acquiring a retirement visa. A quite inexpensive place to live, the Philippines is also home to some of the world’s best islands. Acquiring a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa entitles an expat to an indefinite stay (with multiple entry/exit privileges), a waiver of import duties and taxes on up to $7,000 of personal effects, and exemption from taxes on pensions and annuities.

SRRV holders also don’t have to pay the Philippine Travel Tax when they leave the country. This visa also allows expats access to the PHILHEALTH system.

Other Options

Many other countries offer retirement visas to expats, but some just grant the ability to reside in the country without access to things like healthcare or discounts on services. Individual cities in some countries, including Spain and Italy, may offer financial perks for expats to live and invest in them, primarily due to shrinking populations. With a little legwork, you can likely find an option that is attractive to you. 

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : 4 Countries That Offer the Most Incentives To Retire There