Panama

Panama: general info for travelers

Panama is a country located in Central America, bordered by Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the southeast. It is known for its natural beauty, tropical climate, and cultural diversity. The capital city, Panama City, boasts a modern skyline and historic Casco Viejo district. Panama is also renowned for the Panama Canal, a man-made waterway that connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and revolutionized global trade. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Panama, including beach hopping, hiking in the jungle, bird-watching, and exploring local history and culture.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Panama, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Panama: places to visit

1. Panama Canal - A 48-mile-long waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The canal is one of the most important engineering feats of the 20th century. Visitors can see the canal in action from various locations along the way.
2. Casco Viejo - Also known as the historic district of Panama City, Casco Viejo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Panama's colonial architecture and culture.
3. Bocas del Toro - This archipelago is located on the Caribbean coast of Panama and is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, surfing, and other water activities, as well as explore the local culture.
4. San Blas Islands - Located on the Caribbean side of Panama, the San Blas Islands are a collection of over 300 picturesque islands. The region is home to the Kuna tribe, who have preserved their traditional way of life.
5. Boquete - Boquete is a mountain town located in the Chiriqui Highlands. The town is known for its cooler climate, coffee plantations, and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Panama Viejo - The ruins of Panama Viejo are the remnants of the original Panama City, which was founded in 1519. The site features several preserved structures, including a cathedral and a tower.
7. Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park - This marine park is located on the Pacific Coast of Panama and spans over 14,000 acres. Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and watching sea turtles.
8. Coiba Island - Coiba Island is part of a national park and is located in the Gulf of Chiriquí. The island features diverse wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and over 760 species of fish. It's a great spot for snorkeling and diving. 9. El Valle de Anton – A small town located in a valley featuring the El Valle de Anton crater, thermal hot springs, waterfalls, and beautiful scenery.
10. Embera Villages - Visitors can learn about Panama's indigenous culture by visiting Embera communities. The Embera people live in small villages along the Chagres River and offer visitors a glimpse into their traditional way of life.
There is more to see and do in Panama: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Panama: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Panama, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Panama has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. However, there are two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season runs from December to April, and it is the best time to visit Panama. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm weather with very little rainfall. Temperatures typically range from 25-30°C (80-90°F). The rainy season runs from May to November, and it is characterized by brief rain showers throughout the day. Despite the rains, temperatures are still warm and usually range from 25-30°C (80-90°F). The peak of the rainy season is usually in October and November.
Overall, the best time to visit Panama is during the dry season from December to April, when you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, national parks, and outdoor activities without worrying about the rains.

Panama: activities and what to do

There are plenty of fun and exciting activities and sports to do on holiday in Panama. Here are some options: 1. Surfing: Panama has great beaches for surfing such as Santa Catalina, Bocas del Toro, and Playa Venao.
2. Scuba diving and Snorkeling: Panama offers some of the best diving spots in the world like Coiba Island and Bocas del Toro.
3. Hiking: Boquete and Volcán Barú are great places to go hiking and enjoy the natural beauty of Panama.
4. Zip-lining: Chiriqui Highlands and Boquete are great places for zip-lining and canopy tours.
5. Kayaking and Rafting: Panama has great rivers for kayaking and rafting such as the Chagres River and the Rio Chiriqui.
6. Wildlife watching: Panama is home to many species such as monkeys, sloths, whales, dolphins and birds. One of the best places to spot animals is Soberania National Park.
7. Visiting indigenous communities: Get to know the Panamanian indigenous communities to learn about their traditions, culture and beliefs.

Panama: few words on history and culture

Panama has a rich cultural and historical heritage that dates back to before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. The area that is now Panama was home to several indigenous groups, including the Kuna, Ngäbe, and Emberá, who had their own unique languages, traditions, and customs.
In 1501, Spanish explorer Rodrigo de Bastidas arrived in the region, and in 1513, Vasco Núñez de Balboa crossed the isthmus and became the first European to see the Pacific Ocean. Panama became a part of the Spanish Empire and was a major center of trade, linking South America to the rest of the world.
Over the years, Panama has been shaped by many different cultures, including African, Chinese, and Indian. Today, Panama has a diverse population and is known for its music, dance, and food. Some of Panama's most popular cultural attractions include the Panama Canal Museum, the world-famous Carnival celebration, and traditional folkloric dance performances.

Panama: how to move around on holiday

Panama is well-connected and offers a range of transportation options for visitors. Here are some of the best means of transport to reach and visit Panama: 1. Air Travel: Panama has one major international airport, the Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, that offers numerous flight options from around the world. You can also get around the country by plane using domestic airlines like Air Panama and Copa Airlines. 2. Bus: Buses are the most common form of transportation for both locals and tourists in Panama. The buses are cheap and widely available, and they can take you almost anywhere in the country. 3. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Panama, and they are also relatively affordable. Just make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid any surprises. 4. Car Rental: Renting a car allows visitors to have more control over their itinerary and flexibility as they travel around Panama. 5. Ferry: Ferries are available to some of the popular islands in the Bocas Del Toro region and to Taboga Island from Panama City. Overall, the transportation options in Panama are budget-friendly and reliable, making it easy for travelers to explore the country at their pace. To hire a car to visit Panama, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Panama: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Panama with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Panama along with their description: 1. Sancocho: This is a traditional Panamanian stew made with chicken, yucca, plantains, potatoes, corn, and cilantro. It is usually served with white rice.
2. Arroz con Pollo: This is a dish of chicken and rice that is similar to the Spanish paella. The chicken is cooked with onions, garlic, peppers, and other seasonings before being added to the rice.
3. Ceviche: This is a dish made with raw fish that is marinated in lime juice, onions, cilantro, and peppers. It is typically served with crackers or chips.
4. Tamales: These are similar to the Mexican tamales, but with a distinct Panamanian twist. Panamanian tamales are made with corn and filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables.
5. Ropa Vieja: This is a Cuban dish that has become popular in Panama. It is made with shredded beef that is cooked with onions, peppers, and a tomato-based sauce.
6. Empanadas: These are small, fried or baked turnovers that are filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
7. Chicheme: This is a sweet and creamy drink made with sweet corn, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. It is a traditional drink in Panama and is often served with empanadas.

Panama: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Panama can be expensive for tourists, but it depends on your travel style and budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can be high in certain tourist areas like Panama City, Bocas del Toro, and San Blas Islands. However, there are also plenty of affordable options for budget travelers, such as guesthouses, hostels, and street food vendors. It's important to research and plan your budget in advance to make the most of your trip to Panama.

Panama: where to find accodation

There are several websites where you can look for accommodation in Panama. Some of the popular ones are: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Expedia 4. Agoda 5. Hostelworld Additionally, you can also check the websites of specific hotels or resorts you are interested in staying at. It's always a good idea to read reviews from previous guests to get a better idea of the quality of the accommodation.
You can check hotel prices in Panama here:
Booking.com

Panama: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Panama receives approximately 2.5 million visitors annually. The busiest tourism season is generally from December to April, when many tourists visit Panama to escape colder climates in their home countries. This period can be quite crowded, particularly in popular tourist destinations such as Panama City, the San Blas Islands, and the Bocas del Toro archipelago. However, outside of this period, Panama is generally less crowded and tourists can enjoy a more relaxed experience of the country's attractions and culture.
Overall, Panama is considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any country, there are areas that should be avoided, especially at night. It is recommended to avoid the areas of El Chorillo and Santa Ana in Panama City, as they have a higher rate of crime. Additionally, parts of the Darrien Province bordering Colombia are known for drug trafficking and should be avoided. As a tourist, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking alone at night. Overall, with proper precautions, Panama can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Panama on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Panama: events for tourists

Panama is a vibrant country with a rich culture and many interesting events that attract tourists. Here are some of the most popular events in Panama: 1. Carnival of Panama - This is the biggest celebration in Panama and takes place each year, usually in February. The streets fill with colorful processions, floats, music, and dancing.
2. Boquete Flower and Coffee Festival - This festival takes place in January and celebrates the coffee and flowers produced in the Boquete region of Panama. Visitors can enjoy coffee tastings, flower exhibitions, and live music.
3. Panama Jazz Festival - Held in January, this is one of the best jazz festivals in the region. It attracts international jazz musicians and offers concerts and workshops.
4. International Film Festival of Panama - This festival takes place in April and showcases the latest independent films from all over the world.
5. Independence Day - Panama celebrates its independence from Spain on November 3rd. Festivities include parades, music, and fireworks.
These are just a few of the interesting events that take place in Panama throughout the year.

Panama: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Panama, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is a two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Panama: Day 1-3: Panama City Explore the bustling capital city of Panama, including visiting the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood, enjoying the dining scene in the trendy El Cangrejo neighborhood, and taking a boat ride through the Panama Canal.
Day 4-5: San Blas Islands Take an unforgettable trip to the beautiful San Blas Islands, where you can relax on pristine beaches, swim in crystal clear waters, and learn about the indigenous Guna culture.
Day 6-7: Boquete Travel to the cool highlands of Boquete, known for its coffee plantations, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Day 8-9: Bocas del Toro Head to the Caribbean coast to explore the laid-back town of Bocas del Toro, where you can swim, surf, snorkel or scuba dive along the vibrant coral reefs.
Day 10-11: Pedasi Visit the charming town of Pedasi and nearby beaches. Kayak or paddle-board in the clear waters, or go whale-watching off the coast.
Day 12-14: El Valle de Anton Relax in the beautiful mountain town of El Valle de Anton, where you can hike to waterfalls, take a dip in hot springs, and visit the colorful local market.
This itinerary can be customized based on your interests and preferences. Safe and enjoyable travels!

Panama: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Panama described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bocas del Toro is an archipelago located in the Caribbean Sea of Panama. It consists of nine islands and numerous smaller islets. The archipelago is known for its stunning natural beauty, white sandy ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bocas del Toro
- Boquete is a small town located in the highlands of Panama, near the border with Costa Rica. It is situated in the province of Chiriquí, and it is known for its picturesque landscape, cool climate, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boquete
- El Porvenir is a small island located off the coast of Panama in the San Blas archipelago. It is inhabited by the indigenous Kuna people, who have preserved their traditional way of life and cultural ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Porvenir
- El Valle de Anton is a town located in the Cocle Province in central Panama. It is situated in a valley on the western side of the Azuero Peninsula, and is surrounded by scenic mountains and forests. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to El Valle de Anton
- Isla Boca Brava is a stunning island located in the Pacific coast of Panama, near the border with Costa Rica. The island is part of the Chiriqui Archipelago and it's known for its pristine beaches, lu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Boca Brava
- Isla Carenero is a small island located off the coast of Panama, near the popular tourist destination of Bocas del Toro. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Carenero
- Isla Cebaco is a small volcanic island located in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Panama. With a population of only around 1,200 people, the island is a tranquil and secluded destination perfect f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Cebaco
- Isla Chapera is a small island located off the coast of Panama in the Gulf of Chiriqui. It is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life, making it a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Chapera
- Isla Coiba is a remote island located in the Pacific Ocean, southwest of Panama. It is part of the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses several islands and the surroundin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Coiba
- Isla Colon, also known as Bocas del Toro Island, is the main island of the Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama. It is located in the Caribbean Sea, off the north coast of Panama, and is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Colon
- Isla Contadora is a small island located in the Gulf of Panama, about 50 kilometers from Panama City. It is part of the Pearl Islands and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Contadora
- Isla del Caño is a small, uninhabited island located off the Pacific coast of Panama's Osa Peninsula. The island is about 10 kilometers from the mainland and is part of the Corcovado National Park. It... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla del Caño
- Isla del Rey is a small island located in the Gulf of Panama, just off the coast of the Azuero Peninsula. It is mostly known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and snorkeling opportunities... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla del Rey
- Isla Galeta is a small island located in the Gulf of Panama, about 2.5 kilometers from the Pacific coast of Panama. It is part of the National Audubon Society's Important Bird Area program due to its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Galera
- Isla Gobernadora is a small island located in the archipelago of Las Perlas, in the Pacific coast of Panama. The island has an area of approximately 900 hectares and a population of around 200 people.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Gobernadora
- Isla Grande de Chiriquí is a beautiful island located off the Pacific coast of Panama. It is part of the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park and is known for its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Grande de Chiriquí
- Isla Grande is a small island located off the coast of Panama in the Caribbean Sea. It's part of the Portobelo National Park and is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Grande
- Isla Ladrones is a small, uninhabited island located off the Pacific coast of Panama, in the Gulf of Chiriqui. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Ladrones
- Isla Mogo Mogo is a small island located in the Pearl Islands archipelago, off the Pacific coast of Panama. The island is a popular destination for eco-tourism and adventure activities, such as snorke... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Mogo Mogo
- Isla Pacheca is a small island located in Panama's Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, clear waters, and beautiful beaches. Visitors ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Pacheca
- Isla Parida is a stunning island located in the Gulf of Chiriqui, Panama. Known for its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, it is a popular destination for tourists looking for a serene and relax... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Parida
- Isla Popa is a small island located in Bocas del Toro province in Panama. It is part of the Popa Island National Park and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical ve... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Popa
- Isla Saboga is a small island located in the Pacific Ocean, about 35 kilometers from the Panama City. It is a part of the Pearl Islands archipelago and is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Saboga
- Isla San Cristobal is a small island located in the Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama. It is part of the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park and is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear w... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla San Cristobal
- Isla San Jose is a tiny uninhabited island located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Panama. It is a protected wildlife sanctuary, known for its diverse marine life including sea turtles, dolphins... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla San Jose
- Isla Solarte, also known as Solarte Island, is a small island located in the Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama. It is known for its white sand beaches, lush vegetation, and diverse marine life. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Solarte
- Isla Taboga is a small, tropical island located about 20 kilometers off the coast of Panama City, Panama. It is often referred to as the "Island of Flowers" for its abundance of tropical vegetation an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isla Taboga
- La Arena is a small town located in the province of Los Santos in Panama. It is known for its beautiful beaches, including Playa Venao, which is a popular destination for surfing. The town is also hom... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Arena
- Las Lajas is a small town located in the Chiriqui province of Panama, just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its long and beautiful beaches, which attract many tourists throughout th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Las Lajas
- Narganá is an island located in the Guna Yala archipelago of Panama. It is home to the indigenous Guna people, who have preserved their traditional way of life and culture. The island is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Narganá
- Nombre de Dios is a small town located on the Caribbean coast of Panama in the province of Colón. It is known for its historic significance as a significant port for the Spanish Empire during the colo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nombre de Dios
- Panama City is the capital and largest city of Panama, located at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. It is a vibrant and modern city, with a rich history, culture and a wide range of attraction... CONTINUE here for a trip to Panama City
- Playa Blanca is a popular beach destination located on the Pacific coast of Panama, about 2 hours west of Panama City. It is known for its pristine white sand beach and crystal-clear waters, making it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Blanca
- Playa Panama is a beautiful beach located in the northwestern province of Guanacaste in Costa Rica. It is renowned for its picturesque landscape, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush ve... CONTINUE here for a trip to Playa Panama
- Portobelo is a small town located on the northern coast of Panama, known for its rich history and beautiful colonial architecture. It was founded in the early 17th century as a port city and served as... CONTINUE here for a trip to Portobelo
- Puerto Armuelles is a town on the Pacific coast of Panama, located in the province of Chiriquí. It was originally a company town built by the United Fruit Company in the early 20th century to support ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Armuelles
- San Blas Islands is a chain of over 360 scenic islands located off the northeast coast of Panama in the Caribbean Sea. The islands are primarily inhabited by the Kuna Yala indigenous tribe, who mainta... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Blas Islands
- Santa Catalina is a small seaside town located on the Pacific coast of Panama, known for surfing and its proximity to Coiba National Park. It is approximately 5 hours from Panama City by car and is a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Catalina
- Santa Clara is a small beach town located in the Pacific Ocean coast of Panama. It is part of the district of Antón in the province of Coclé. Santa Clara is known for its kilometers of white sand beac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Clara
- Volcan is a town located in the province of Chiriqui, Panama. It is situated in the western part of the country, near the border with Costa Rica. Volcan is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Volcan


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