Panama: Complete Travel Guide

Why Panama Should Be Your Next Destination

The Crossroads of the Americas

Panama’s unique geography as the slender isthmus connecting North and South America has shaped its destiny for centuries. This land bridge has been a conduit for trade, culture, and biodiversity, creating a destination that is both a continental crossroads and a world of its own. Its strategic position offers travelers a rare and compelling experience.

The country’s narrow waistline makes it one of the few places on Earth where you can witness the sunrise over the Caribbean Sea and later watch it set over the Pacific Ocean, all within a single day. This proximity to two distinct and immense bodies of water defines the Panamanian landscape and offers a remarkable sense of place.

Unparalleled Biodiversity

Beyond its famous canal, Panama is a sanctuary of natural wealth. Its territory is a vibrant tapestry of ecosystems, from the dense lowland rainforests of the Darién to the misty cloud forests of the Chiriquí Highlands. The country’s two long coastlines are fringed with mangrove forests, coral reefs, and hundreds of islands, supporting a staggering diversity of marine life.

This ecological richness makes Panama a premier destination for nature enthusiasts. With over 970 recorded bird species, it is a celebrated location for birdwatching. Countless trails wind through protected national parks, offering immersive hiking and wildlife spotting opportunities, solidifying its reputation as a haven for thoughtful eco-tourism.

A Fusion of Worlds

Panama is a country of compelling and visible contrasts. It is home to the Panama Canal, a monumental feat of 20th-century engineering that fundamentally altered global trade and stands as a testament to human ingenuity. This modern marvel coexists with a deep and layered history that is visible at every turn.

This duality is most apparent in its capital. The gleaming glass and steel towers of Panama City’s financial district create a skyline that rivals any major metropolis. A short distance away, the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, invite exploration of colonial plazas, restored historic mansions, and rooftop bars with views of the old and new. For more on what to do in the capital, check out our guide to the best things to do in Panamá City.

The nation’s identity is also profoundly shaped by its indigenous communities. The Guna, Emberá, and Ngäbe-Buglé peoples maintain their distinct traditions, arts, and ways of life, offering visitors a respectful opportunity to engage with cultures that have thrived in this land for centuries. Learn more about the rich Kuna culture of San Blas and other indigenous traditions.

Planning Your Panamanian Adventure

Best Time to Visit

Panama’s tropical climate means warm weather year-round, but the country experiences two distinct seasons. Choosing when to go depends entirely on your travel priorities. For a comprehensive overview of the country’s diverse offerings, see our guide to the best places to visit in Panama.

• Dry Season (mid-December to April): This is Panama’s high season. Expect sunny skies, minimal rain, and ideal conditions for lounging on Pacific coast beaches, hiking in the highlands, or exploring the San Blas Islands. Naturally, this is also the most popular and expensive time to visit, so booking accommodation and tours in advance is recommended.
• Wet/Green Season (May to November): Don’t be deterred by the name. This season transforms the landscape into a vibrant, lush paradise. Crowds are thinner, and prices for flights and lodging often drop. Rain typically comes in short, intense afternoon downpours, leaving the rest of the day clear. It’s an excellent time for birdwatching and seeing the rainforest at its most dynamic.

It’s important to note that the Caribbean coast, particularly the Bocas del Toro archipelago, follows a different rhythm. This region can experience more rain during the country’s official dry season, with drier spells often occurring in September and October.

Visas and Entry Requirements

Panama is a welcoming country with straightforward entry policies for most tourists. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and the EU, do not require a visa for stays up to 180 days. Upon arrival, you will typically receive a stamp in your passport.

However, all travelers should ensure they have the following:

• A passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date.
• Proof of onward or return travel (e.g., a flight ticket out of Panama).
• Proof of economic solvency (while rarely asked for, it is an official requirement).

Health and vaccination requirements can change. While certain vaccinations may be recommended, they are not always mandatory. It is essential to consult with your doctor and check the latest travel advisories before your trip. For advice on what to bring, our what to pack for Panama guide is a great resource.

Disclaimer: Entry requirements, visa policies, and health advisories are subject to change. Always consult the official website of the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your country for the most current and accurate information before booking your travel.

Budgeting and Currency

Panama’s official currency is the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), but its most unique feature is that it is pegged 1-to-1 with the US Dollar (USD). Panama does not print its own paper currency; instead, US dollars are used for all paper transactions. You will only encounter Balboa in coin form (alongside US coins). This makes transactions simple for many international travelers. For detailed information on managing your finances, explore our guide to currency in Panama and our breakdown of the budget to visit Panama.

Your daily budget can vary widely depending on your travel style. Here are some general estimates per person, per day:

• Backpacker: $35 – $50. This covers a dorm bed, local meals from *fondas* (small eateries), public transportation, and free activities.
• Mid-Range: $80 – $150. This allows for a private room in a mid-range hotel or guesthouse, meals at a mix of local and tourist-oriented restaurants, a few tours, and occasional taxis or ride-shares. Consider our Panama accommodation guide for lodging options.
• Luxury: $250+. This budget accommodates stays in high-end hotels or resorts, fine dining, private tours, and domestic flights for greater comfort and convenience.

Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service, with 10% being a standard amount in restaurants. It’s customary to round up the fare for taxi drivers.

Getting There and Around

Flying In

The primary gateway to Panama is Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City. As the “Hub of the Americas,” it is one of the best-connected airports in Latin America, receiving direct flights from major cities across North America, South America, and Europe.

Domestic Travel

Navigating Panama is relatively straightforward, with several options to suit different itineraries and budgets.

• Domestic Flights: For covering long distances quickly, domestic flights are an efficient choice. Air Panama is the main carrier, connecting Panama City’s Albrook Airport (PAC) with destinations like Bocas del Toro, David (for Boquete), and the Guna Yala region. If you’re heading to the highlands, our Boquete Panamá Travel Guide offers valuable insights.
• Long-Distance Buses: The bus network is the backbone of Panamanian travel. It is extensive, reliable, and highly affordable. Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches connect Panama City’s Albrook Bus Terminal to all major towns and regions across the country. For those seeking unique experiences off the typical tourist path, explore our guide to out of the beaten tracks places to visit in Panama.
• Taxis, Ride-Sharing, and Metro: In Panama City, you have multiple options. Taxis are plentiful, but be sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey as they are not metered. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Didi are also widely used and offer fixed pricing. The city’s modern and efficient Metro system is an excellent way to bypass traffic when traveling between key districts.
• Boats and Lanchas: To reach Panama’s famous archipelagos, water travel is essential. Organized boat transport is the only way to explore the San Blas Islands, while frequent water taxis, or *lanchas*, shuttle travelers between islands in Bocas del Toro. For adventurers interested in marine life and pristine diving, the Coiba Panamá Travel Guide is a must-read.

Must-See Destinations and Regions

From a glittering capital city to untouched islands and misty highlands, Panama’s diverse regions offer a remarkable range of experiences. Each area has a distinct character, promising new discoveries whether you seek urban energy, serene nature, or cultural immersion.

Panama City: The Cosmopolitan Capital

A city of stunning contrasts, Panama City is where a futuristic skyline meets a colonial past. It’s a dynamic hub of commerce, culture, and cuisine, serving as the perfect entry point to the country’s wonders.

The Panama Canal

More than just a waterway, the Panama Canal is a monumental testament to human ambition and engineering. Witnessing this marvel in operation is a quintessential Panamanian experience. The sheer scale of the locks and the sight of massive cargo ships being lifted and lowered between two oceans is something that must be seen to be fully appreciated. It stands as one of the great man-made wonders of the modern world.

• Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, just outside the city, to watch ships pass through from the observation decks. The on-site museum provides excellent context on the canal’s construction and global impact.
• For a deeper dive into its history, the Panama Canal Museum in Casco Viejo offers detailed exhibits on the political, social, and technological challenges overcome to build it.

Casco Viejo (The Old Quarter)

Step back in time in Casco Viejo, the city’s historic heart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow brick-paved streets are lined with beautifully restored colonial-era buildings painted in pastel hues. By day, it’s a photographer’s dream of charming plazas and historic churches; by night, it comes alive with some of the city’s best rooftop bars and restaurants, offering spectacular views of the modern skyline across the bay.

• Key sights include the Plaza de Francia, honoring the French effort on the canal, the grand Metropolitan Cathedral on Plaza de la Independencia, and the legendary Arco Chato (Flat Arch), which famously helped prove Panama’s seismic stability.

Modern Panama

Across the bay from Casco Viejo lies the city’s modern face: a dazzling collection of glass and steel skyscrapers. A walk, jog, or bike ride along the Cinta Costera, a landscaped coastal belt, provides the best vantage point for this impressive skyline. For a different perspective, visit the Biomuseo, a strikingly colorful building designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, which explores Panama’s immense biodiversity.

The districts of Obarrio and El Cangrejo are hubs for international dining, boutique shopping, and a vibrant urban atmosphere.

The Caribbean Coast: Turquoise Waters and Island Life

Panama’s Caribbean side is a world away from the Pacific’s hustle. Here, life moves at a slower pace, dictated by the rhythm of the waves and framed by coconut palms and crystal-clear waters.

San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)

The San Blas Archipelago is an experience unlike any other. This autonomous territory is governed by the indigenous Guna people, who have preserved their culture and the pristine nature of their home. Comprising 365 tiny islands, most of them uninhabited, this is the definition of an off-the-grid paradise. Forget luxury resorts; the experience here is about authenticity. You’ll stay in simple, rustic cabins, often with sand floors, and eat fresh-caught seafood prepared by your Guna hosts. It’s a chance to disconnect completely and immerse yourself in a unique culture while exploring some of the most beautiful, untouched beaches in the world.

Bocas del Toro Archipelago

Bocas del Toro is Panama’s premier backpacker and surf destination, a laid-back chain of islands with a distinct Afro-Caribbean vibe. The main town on Isla Colón is a bustling hub of waterfront restaurants, dive shops, and lively bars. From there, water taxis can whisk you away to quieter islands like Bastimentos, home to Red Frog Beach and a national marine park, or the tiny, tranquil Isla Carenero. Activities are centered on the water, from surfing and snorkeling to spotting dolphins and exploring luminous bays on a bioluminescent tour.

The Pacific Coast: Surfing and Seclusion

Panama’s expansive Pacific coastline offers everything from exclusive island escapes to world-class surf breaks and vital marine ecosystems.

The Pearl Islands (Archipiélago de las Perlas)

A quick ferry ride from Panama City, the Pearl Islands feel like a different world. Known for their upscale resorts and tranquil, white-sand beaches, they offer a more polished island getaway. The archipelago is also a prime destination for humpback whale watching, as pods migrate here to breed and calve from July to October.

The Azuero Peninsula

Considered the cultural heartland of Panama, the Azuero Peninsula is where you can experience the country’s rich traditions. The region is famous for its vibrant festivals, particularly Carnival. Beyond the culture, it’s a hotspot for surfers, who flock to the consistent waves of Playa Venao. Nearby, the Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for frigate birds and boasts a beautiful coral reef perfect for snorkeling.

Santa Catalina and Coiba National Park

The sleepy fishing village of Santa Catalina is the gateway to two of Panama’s greatest natural treasures. The town itself is legendary among surfers for “The Point,” a powerful and consistent reef break. But the main draw is its proximity to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This protected marine reserve, a former penal colony, is often called the “Galapagos of Central America” due to its incredible biodiversity. Divers and snorkelers can encounter whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, and massive schools of fish in its thriving waters.

The Highlands: Coffee, Cloud Forests, and Volcanoes

Escape the coastal heat by heading to the cool, misty mountains of the Chiriquí province, a region of lush cloud forests, coffee plantations, and volcanic peaks.

Boquete

Nestled in a verdant valley, Boquete is Panama’s adventure capital. The cool climate and fertile volcanic soil make it the epicenter of Panama’s coffee production, including the world-renowned Geisha variety. Coffee farm tours are a must-do. For hikers, the famous Quetzal Trail offers a chance to spot the elusive and vibrant Resplendent Quetzal. Other activities include zip-lining through the forest canopy, white-water rafting, and the ultimate challenge: a pre-dawn hike up Volcán Barú, Panama’s highest point, to witness the sunrise over both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

El Valle de Antón

This charming town is uniquely situated in the crater of a massive extinct volcano. Surrounded by jagged, forested peaks, El Valle is a haven for nature lovers. Easy-to-access trails lead to serene waterfalls and viewpoints, with the most popular hike being the ridge of La India Dormida (The Sleeping Indian). The town also hosts a bustling Sunday market where you can buy local handicrafts and fresh produce.

Key Panamanian Experiences

Wildlife and Birdwatching

Panama’s unique position as a land bridge between continents has blessed it with an astonishing concentration of wildlife. The country is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, offering accessible encounters with a diverse range of species. In the highlands of Boquete, patient observers can seek out the vibrant plumage of the Resplendent Quetzal, a truly memorable sight. The languid pace of life in Bocas del Toro is perfectly mirrored by its resident sloths, often spotted clinging to cecropia trees. Just a short drive from the capital, Soberanía National Park echoes with the calls of howler monkeys and the chatter of white-faced capuchins. For birdwatchers, Panama is a premier destination, home to over 970 recorded bird species, a number greater than the United States and Canada combined.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

With two long coastlines, volcanic highlands, and dense jungles, Panama is a natural playground for the adventurous. The country offers a full spectrum of outdoor pursuits for every skill level.

• Water Sports: The Pacific coast, particularly at Santa Catalina and Playa Venao, delivers world-class waves for surfers. The clear, protected waters of the San Blas and Bocas del Toro archipelagos are ideal for snorkeling and diving, revealing vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. For an adrenaline rush, the rivers of the Chiriquí province offer exciting white-water rafting excursions.
• Hiking: Trails crisscross the country’s varied landscapes. You can trek through humid rainforests in search of waterfalls, explore the unique cloud forest ecosystem along Boquete’s Quetzal Trail, or undertake the challenging pre-dawn ascent of Volcán Barú for a chance to see both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans at sunrise.

Coffee and Cuisine

Panama’s culinary scene is a flavorful reflection of its cultural mosaic, but its most famous contribution to the world of gastronomy is undoubtedly its coffee. The volcanic soil and high altitude of the Boquete region provide the perfect conditions for growing Geisha coffee, one of the most exclusive and sought-after varieties in the world. Renowned for its delicate, tea-like body and floral notes, a tasting tour at a local coffee farm is an essential highland experience.

Beyond coffee, Panamanian food offers hearty and fresh flavors. Be sure to try these local staples:

• Sancocho: A comforting chicken and root vegetable soup, often considered Panama’s national dish.
• Ceviche: Fresh raw fish or seafood cured in lime juice with onion and cilantro, a refreshing staple found everywhere from city restaurants to roadside stands.
• Patacones: Twice-fried green plantain slices, served as a savory, crispy side dish for nearly every meal.
• Ropa Vieja: A flavorful dish of shredded beef stewed with peppers and spices, served with rice.

Culture and History

Panama’s story is one of connection—of oceans, continents, and people. Engaging with its rich cultural tapestry is one of the most rewarding aspects of a visit. You can arrange a trip up the Chagres River to visit an Emberá indigenous village, where you can learn directly about their deep connection to the rainforest and traditional way of life. In the autonomous Guna Yala territory, the Guna people maintain a distinct matriarchal culture, world-famous for their intricate textile art, the mola. For a glimpse into the colonial past, explore the ruins of the Spanish forts at Portobelo on the Caribbean coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once guarded the empire’s silver route.

Essential Travel Tips

Health and Safety

Panama is generally considered a safe country for travelers, but like any destination, it requires common sense and awareness. In urban areas such as Panama City and Colón, be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, and keep your valuables secure. Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded markets and on public transportation, so it’s wise to use a money belt and keep a close watch on your belongings. For more on this, check out our guide on safety in Panama.

Before your trip, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional regarding recommended vaccinations. While no specific shots are mandatory for entry from most countries, ensuring your routine immunizations are up to date is always a good practice. Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue and Zika are present, particularly in humid, lower-altitude regions. Using an effective insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants during dusk and dawn, and choosing accommodations with screens or air conditioning can significantly reduce your risk. Learn more about what to pack to stay prepared by reading our what to pack for Panama guide.

Tap water in Panama City and most major towns is generally safe to drink, but in rural areas and on the islands, it is best to stick to bottled or purified water. When it comes to food, Panama offers a delicious culinary scene. Most restaurants and established street food vendors maintain good hygiene, but use your judgment. If a place looks unclean or the food appears to have been sitting out for a long time, it’s better to choose another option.

A special note of caution concerns the Darién Gap, the dense jungle region bordering Colombia. This area is not a tourist destination and should not be entered without an experienced, professional guide. It presents significant dangers, including remote terrain, lack of infrastructure, and the presence of illegal armed groups. Travel in this region is strongly discouraged for all but the most seasoned and well-equipped expedition teams.

Accommodation Guide

Panama offers a diverse range of lodging options to suit any travel style and budget. In Panama City, you can find everything from sleek, modern high-rise hotels to charming boutique hotels in Casco Viejo and social backpacker hostels. In the highlands of Boquete, eco-lodges and coffee farm stays are popular, offering a close connection to nature. Along the coasts, choices range from all-inclusive resorts on the Pacific to rustic, over-the-water bungalows in Bocas del Toro and simple, community-run cabins in the San Blas Islands. Discover more options in our comprehensive Panama accommodation guide.

During the dry season (December to April), it is highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially in popular destinations like Bocas del Toro, Boquete, and Casco Viejo. For a cultural and historic stay in the capital, base yourself in Casco Viejo. For a more modern, central vibe with easy access to restaurants and the Metro, consider areas like El Cangrejo or Obarrio. When visiting the San Blas Islands, accommodation is typically arranged as part of a multi-day tour package, which simplifies the process of finding a place to stay on these remote islands.

Communication and Connectivity

Staying connected in Panama is relatively straightforward. Wi-Fi is widely available and generally reliable in hotels, cafes, and restaurants throughout Panama City and other major towns. However, as you venture into more remote areas like the San Blas Islands or parts of the Chiriquí Highlands, expect connectivity to be limited or entirely unavailable, offering a welcome opportunity to disconnect.

For consistent data access, purchasing a local SIM card is an easy and affordable option. Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport or in any town, you can find stores for providers like Tigo or +Móvil. A prepaid SIM with a data plan is inexpensive and will allow you to use maps, translation apps, and ride-sharing services with ease.

While English is commonly spoken in the tourism industry and in Panama City, knowing a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your interactions and is always appreciated by locals. Here are a few to get you started:

• Hola (Hello)
• Gracias (Thank you)
• Por favor (Please)
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much is it?)
• La cuenta, por favor (The bill, please)