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Introducing Panama

Panama  fosters a traveler’s sense of exploration. From trekking the rainforest, sailing from island to island, exploring the ruins of Spanish forts, and getting to know its unique culture, this country has the makings of a great adventure.

When is the best time to visit?
Panama is a year-round destination, but many prefer to travel there during the driest season from mid-December to mid-April.

 Where to go in Panama?
Discover the classic destinations of Panama City and the Panama Canal, swim with colorful fish and lounge on the white sand beaches of the Archipielago de Bocas del Toro, visit the forested hills of the highlands, and fall in love with the colorful culture of the Peninsula de Azuero.

How many days do I need?
Spend at least a week exploring Panama’s natural wonders and scenic highlights.

Explore trips by duration: 7 days · 8 days · 10 days

Panama Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Casco Viejo, Panama City
Map of The Wonders of Panama - 7 Days
The Wonders of Panama - 7 Days

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

Valle de Anton
Map of Ultimate Panama Road Trip: Panama City, Gamboa, Pacific Coast & More - 15 Days
Ultimate Panama Road Trip: Panama City, Gamboa, Pacific Coast & More - 15 Days

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

Bocas del Toro
Map of Family Adventure in Panama - 7 Days
Family Adventure in Panama - 7 Days

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

Panama City Skyline
Map of Best of Panama City - 7 Days
Best of Panama City - 7 Days

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

A waterfall near the village of Boquete
Map of Panama Multi-Sport Adventure - 11 Days
Panama Multi-Sport Adventure - 11 Days

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

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

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

Panama Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Panama Content

Bocas del Toro, Panama
Best Time of Year to Visit Panama

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

Miraflores Locks, Panama Canal
How Many Days to Spend in Panama

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

Tropical island in Panama
Panama in December: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

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

Panama Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Panama map: The Wonders of Panamá - 7 Days
The Wonders of Panamá - 7 Days
View article
Panama map: Ultimate Panama Road Trip: Panama City, Gamboa, Pacific Coast, & More - 15 Days
Ultimate Panama Road Trip: Panama City, Gamboa, Pacific Coast, & More - 15 Days
View article
Panama map: Family Adventure in Panama - 7 Days
Family Adventure in Panama - 7 Days
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Panama
Travel specialist Zulmy Revette
active 1 day ago

Zulmy Revette

I’m Venezuelan living in Panama for 6 years now. I just fell in love with this country that offers beautiful landscapes, charming people, and great culture. Panama stands by its slogan: Much more...

read more...
Travel specialist Reyna Ulloa
active 7 hours ago

Reyna Ulloa

My name is Reyna, a young professional from Masaya, Nicaragua. I am a university graduate of Tourism Management and Development, and I declare myself completely in love with Central America. I...

read more...
Travel specialist Lucía Barrios
active 5 hours ago

Lucía Barrios

I have worked in Tourism industry since 9 years. I am keen on the outdoors activities especially those involved in direct contact with nature like hiking, snorkeling. I love to swim, bird watching...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

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You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

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Trip Reviews for Panama

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Panama was an epic trip. We were looking for ...
Panama | Mar 6 - Mar 16, 2023

K
Karen S.
San Leandro, CA | Reviewed on Mar 20, 2023

Panama was an epic trip. We were looking for a beach vacation and wanted to see the Panama Canal. The itinerary and service provided by Reyna was excellent. Reyna checked in with us throughout the tour. The trips/transfer to and from the Pearl Islands and to Bocas del Toro were arranged by Reyna and her team and we had no problems at all. She communicated with our hotels and drivers throughout the trip. The drivers were helpful and informative. One of the tours Reyna recommended was a rain... read more

Panama was an epic trip. We were looking for a beach vacation and wanted to see the Panama Canal. The itinerary and service provided by Reyna was excellent. Reyna checked in with us throughout the tour. The trips/transfer to and from the Pearl Islands and to Bocas del Toro were arranged by Reyna and her team and we had no problems at all. She communicated with our hotels and drivers throughout the trip. The drivers were helpful and informative. One of the tours Reyna recommended was a rain forest boat tour of Gatun lake- which is entered via the national park in Panama City. This is a real treat and not to be missed and gives a real perspective of Panama canal's history and geography. Our guide for Gatun Lake and then a visit to Colon, Jenny who is a local, was excellent. I really appreciated her enthusiasm and she clearly knew area well- not to mention where to get the best raspado in town. We spent two nights at Oro y Mar on Isla Contadora which was the most elegant hotel on the island with a beautiful private beach. This was a quiet stay as the island is small. We stayed at Island Plantation in Bocas del Toro- I can't say enough about this place- beautiful with a pool, private beach and far way yet close enough to the town to go into town. We took day trips from there with Kawi Voyage Eco-tours and our guide Sophie Garcia was fantastic. We packed a lot into this trip but it never felt like too much. Thank you Reyna and your team!

Hotel Review
Hotel Island Plantation
Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro

Highly recommend. The place itself is beautiful and serene- a real retreat. They have their own beach with the restaurant above so it felt like the tropical vacation I was looking for. Thank you Chris and Choco!

Authenticity & Character
The place itself is beautiful and every detail is noticeable.
Location
Away from the main town but close enough to go into town at any time.
Staff
From owner to the staff they attended to us. Really kind and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Water provided in the room. Spotless.
Local specialist: Reyna Ulloa
Reyna
Reyna Ulloa
Local specialist in Managua | Replied on May 12, 2023

Hi dear Karen. :)
Thank you very much for your kind message and feedback about your trip.

It was a great opportunity to provide you assistance during all your stay in Panama. A pleasure to be part of this special trip and we really appreciate all your comment to keep the good work an improve our services.

Hope to have the chance to assist you in a future trip maybe for Nicaragua! ;)

All the best for you both,
Great to e-meet you during this adventure.

Warm regards,

A great trip to a gem destination.
Panama | Jan 28 - Feb 9, 2023

J
Jeffrey W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Feb 20, 2023

The services for our trip were all outstanding. Beginning with Zulmy who put together a trip that was well suited to our interests.

One of the best tour guides was Yesenia Yepez. Her knowledge of local animals and the environment was very impressive.

The other tour guide we'd like to mention is Erick Gonzalez. He was an exceptional young man and a great guide. Making dinner with his family was the highlight of the trip.

Local specialist: Zulmy Revette
Zulmy
Zulmy Revette
Local specialist in Panama | Replied on Feb 27, 2023

I really appreciate your comment Jeffrey. I will send your reviews to Jesenia and Erick!

Thank you for letting me help you with the preparation for this trip to Panama filled with a lot of cultural exchange!

Best,

Zulmy

Two week flavor of Panama Trip
Panama | Dec 28 - Jan 11, 2023

Luke
Luke T.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jan 15, 2023

My trip to Panama was preceded by a few weeks in Costa Rica. The first difference was the heat in Panama but that was why I was here. But let's start with the planning.

Reyna was awesome from the start. I explained what I wanted to try and accomplish, and she really did a great job setting things up for me in a variety of locations and activities. I'm not sure she was expecting an old guy (60) lol, to want to do as many active or even risky activities but thats me. She was always on... read more

My trip to Panama was preceded by a few weeks in Costa Rica. The first difference was the heat in Panama but that was why I was here. But let's start with the planning.

Reyna was awesome from the start. I explained what I wanted to try and accomplish, and she really did a great job setting things up for me in a variety of locations and activities. I'm not sure she was expecting an old guy (60) lol, to want to do as many active or even risky activities but thats me. She was always on the spot, and I could contact her anywhere I had a signal, and she would promptly respond. A few things we scheduled I decided to modify on the fly and she made sure this went seamlessly. This was nothing she did, but more from me seeing something a little crazier and wanting to modify my activities. I can't say enough good things about her.

I started in Panama City at the Tryp hotel which was centrally located with nearby restaurants and amenities. I then began my activities the next morning. Bianca, my guide contacted me and suggested we leave earlier to catch more wildlife. I suggested an even earlier start to catch the sunrise and the animals and it was simply amazing. Bianca would be my gude for two days and she was so full of information and fun. She spoke perfect English and we hit all kinds of local stuff, local eateries at my request, (sorry I chickened out on the pigs feet, a local favorite jajaja! We Kayaked into the jungle and visited the Enberra people. Awesome.
The next day we would canoe out to a beautiful waterfall and then indigenous village. It was awesome. The food and the cultural display were very cool I took a hike around the area on my own to try and get a better idea of the people and was met and followed by the children and befriended by them It was very moving! Do this if you go!
I visited some monkey islands in the canal the next day and Casco Viejo and it was also very intereting. One more night then off Valle de Anton.

Valle De Anton was a beautiful Place and I stayed at the Mandarino Hotel. It was very beautiful in a beautiful location. If I had a complaint about any part of my trip it would be here at reception at the Mandarino. It was the only time I would encounter people that seemed to have a poor attitude towards me. They were just unpleasant, and this would be on check in and checkout. The rest of the staff I encountered were wonderful. The breakfast was great, and the beauty was spectacular. I went on a hike the next day and was contacted by Nico, an independent guide, and Cecilio the driver for the day and also my guide and driver the next day. We did a tour of different areas and a short hike, and it was awesome. Both of these guys were so good, and I would highly recommend requesting them when setting up your tours in Anton Valley.

Next up was Boca Chica. After a slight delay at the regional airport, I was off to Boca Del Mar. It was even more Beautiful than the Mandarino. Because we were arriving late the driver contacted the hotel and they stayed open so I could have a hot dinner when I arrived. The dinner was awesome, and the view was off the charts. I would take a day off and get a massage in the evening. I strongly recommend this if you are staying here. The massage was one of the best Ive ever received and I was married to a trained masseuse!! I then did the 4 hour Island tour here and it was awesome. I set this up while at the hotel Reyna had scheduled a few days of just relaxing and this was definitely the place to do that, but I was ready for action, so I did the tour. It too was absolutely breathtaking, and I highly recommend this. My final stop would be Boquete in the mountains.
I was picked up by Fernando and highly recommended requesting him for your transportation while in Boquete. He knows the entire area and most of the people with a long history here in the mountains. FGLtaxi@icloud.com He gave me many local tips and also was on the spot when I needed driver outside of the activities planned by Reyna. Reyna learned that I was on the go constantly even after the tours etc. I would stay at Finca Lerida, a working coffee plantation. The staff was extremely pleasant and helpful and made great suggestions for me when I arrived early. The hike to the local waterfall was beautiful as were the entire area around me. I did the mini canyon tour, and it was a little crowded for me, but it was a holiday, and it was hot, so a lot of people were there. It did not stop me from doing a few backflips into the river though! I had a great dinner at an Argentine restaurant in town and then called Fernando when I was ready, and he drove me back to my room. My last hike was up the gasline road and to a waterfall. We saw all kinds of wildlife and had a family of Howler Monkeys come through and put on quite a show in the canopy above us. It was a great end to the adventures for tomorrow was back to Panama City and then home.
I would be back at Tryo hotel who let me check out late and were awesome as they were at the beginning of the trip. I stayed in the pool until the last minute and was transported once again to the Airport and Home.

Summary
Reyna was absolutely awesome as my trip coordinator.
My Guides and transport through Miguel tours were great. Ask for Bianca in Panama City. Nico and Cecilio in Valle De Anton, and Fernando at FGLtaxi in Boquete.

Great job KimKim. Second trip with you guys and it was perfect!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Finca Lerida
Boquete

First off, awesome reception staff!! The facility was beautiful, the staff very pleasant, the location unbelievable and the breakfast was amazing. The views from the deck at the restaurant were spectacular. I did all the hikes around the plantation, and it was fun and beautiful If your adventurous check out the waterfall hike. The trail has a few scrambling parts, but it is so worth it. I would stay here again!

Authenticity & Character
Old world charm
Location
The overall beauty, the temperature and the views.
Staff
Super happy and cheerful Very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bocas Del Mar Hotel
Boca Chica

Absolutely gorgeous location and hotel Awesome helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Look at any picture online and then magnify it by 10 in person. Absolutely stunning!
Staff
Helpful and cheerful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Los Mandarinos Boutique Spa and Hotel
El Valle de Anton

A beautiful location and hotel kind of spoiled by reception staff and lack of information.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Reception staff needs some hospitality training. Everyone else was great!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tryp Panama Centro by Wyndham
Panama City

Everyone here was super helpful. Decent location, but im not a big city person. Great room with a good view on New Years of the mayhem outside from the safety of my room lol.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Sunset Sea Kayak - Panama Canal (half day)
Panama City

Bianca making the suggestionof an earlier start made it an unforgettable experience. The sunrise, the serene lake, the crazy amount of wildlife, especially for birdwatchers, and excellant guide. Do this tour!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bianca was the best! Could not ask for a better guide.
Transport
Bianca made it awesome. Learned so much just coming and going.
Embera cultural tour OR Gastronomic tour in Colon
Panama City

Emberra Cultural tour! Bianca again, so lucky. Absolutely beautiful, fun and informative.

Quality of Experience
Food
The Enberra lunch was delicious.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bianca=Awesome. Intelligent, cheerful and fun.
Transport
Bianca
Canal Rainforest Boat experience
Panama City

It was a different tour checking out all the islands. I went to late to really catch the wildlife my mistake.. Should have requestedearlier start as Reyna and Miguel Tours I know would have made it happen.

Valle de Anton - Local Highlights
Valle de anton

Really cool tour that you select activities. Nico and Cecilio and hiking around made it awesome. Nico is a wealth of knowledge, and I would request him for your tours in the Valle

Quality of Experience
The entire day was great and I learned so much. I wanted an authentic hat but we were almost back and they turned around and we went and found one. Very cool!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cecilio was great driver and we guide me the next day
Slot canyon waterfall
Valle de anton

So, I had Cecilio today and we had a great morning hike in the rainforest and then a crazy -in the best way- drive to the waterfall the hike was really what I had been waiting for and he made it really fun the waterfall was absolutely breath =taking and the water colors so vibrant. I jumped off the higher points after watching the locals and it was a blast.

Quality of Experience
I loved the whole day from start to finish. Fun Challenging and beautiful
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ask for Cecilio
Transport
Cecilio knowledge of the backcountry trails.
Cloud Forest "Pipeline Trail"
Boquete

Really fun easy hike with lots of wildlife and beauty. Cool waterfall at the end. It hadnt rained in a while so not as much water but after rain it is probably insane.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guuide actually grew up near the hike and his family still lived near the starting point. Lots of local info and very knowledgeable of the entire thing.
Transport
Local specialist: Reyna Ulloa
Reyna
Reyna Ulloa
Local specialist in Managua | Replied on Feb 02, 2023

Hi dear Luke, nice to greet you again!

I cannot tell you how much we appreciate this nice feedback from you.
Thank you so much for give us the opportunity to our great guides and team in the field to welcome you and provide you the best assistance possible during your visit.

We always have the pleasure to learn from adventurers and active travelers like you!
It was great to e-meet you and hope to have the pleasure to assist you with your trip to Nicaragua in the near future!!

Best wishes in your next adventure Luke!