Panama travel guide

Snaking between two continents, this dramatically varied country combines the natural beauty of South America with a thriving, cosmopolitan energy that flows south from the US. Divide your time between historic cities, pristine national parks and deserted islands strewn along Pacific and Caribbean coastlines — from tracking birds through high-rise cloud forests to diving deep below ocean reefs, there’s an enormous variety of activities on offer. Those you’ll meet in these mountain, jungle and coastal regions range from indigenous communities wedded to a traditional way of living right through to modern, fast-paced urban dwellers chasing an American dream.
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Discover the many faces of this Central American country in its capital, Panama City. Founded in 1519, the restored Casco Viejo (old town) is an excellent place to delve into a troubled past of colonial conquest and pirate invasions.
The most significant development in modern times is undoubtedly the Panama Canal, which transformed the city into a centre for commerce when its locks opened in 1914. Ships continue to pass through — you can watch them from an observation deck in the Miraflores Visitor Centre* — and the traffic encourages an influx of nationalities to settle here. Museums, theatres, world-class restaurants and nightclubs reflect a modern, buzzy development — yet nature still thrives in the 573-acre, bird-filled Metropolitan National Park*.
Beyond the city limits, Panama is still very much an untamed natural paradise. One of the most remote areas is Bocas del Toro, connected by only one road to the rest of the country. Feeding into Costa Rica, the region is smothered in thick rainforest and is one of the best places to discover weird, wonderful — and possibly unknown — species. Listen to the folklore and music of the indigenous Ngabe-Bugle, Naso and Bribri communities on the mainland, then journey to a castaway chain of islands fringing the shore. The Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park is ideal for snorkelling and diving, with nurse sharks and stingrays often spotted. Beaches are perfect for surfing, but not swimming, and nesting turtles can be found between May and September.
Big waves along the Pacific coast are a draw for the global surf community, with pros gathering at the black sand beaches of Santa Catalina in Veraguas — the only province with access to both the Caribbean and the Pacific. Watching riders tackle towering waves is an epic spectacle, but anyone wanting to test the waters with a board for the first time should head to the calmer Playa El Estero. Providing access to the largest reef on the western coastline of the American continent, nearby Coiba National Park is a top dive site for manta rays, hammerhead sharks and whale sharks (from December to April).
Above water, more opportunities for adventure lie inland in the Chiriqui highlands, where jungle-wrapped mountains tower above golden beaches washed by Pacific waves. Some of the country’s best hiking trails can be found here: climb Volcan Baru, the highest point in Panama, or trek along the Los Quetzales Trail* searching for the emerald-feathered bird after which the path is named.
Small town Boquete is a laid-back base for tours of coffee plantations and visits to hot springs; a relaxing complement to the action-packed itineraries of ziplining, rock climbing and white-water rafting in the region. Back at sea level, the Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park has 19 coral reefs and 25 islands to explore.
It’s easy to find a place to match your budget, with properties aimed at all levels of traveller in most popular destinations. A good selection of chain hotels can be found in Panama City*, with the most characteristic boutique options located in Casco Viejo (old town)*.
Along the coast, options include simple cabanas, all-inclusive resorts and even a few exclusive high-end offerings in remote, secluded areas.
Taking advantage of the wonderful scenery, a good selection of eco-lodges provide access to national parks. Community-based tourism is also increasing in popularity, especially in the regions of Bocas del Toro and Guna Yala (which includes the San Blas islands), where simple accommodation is managed by indigenous groups and there’s even the option to book a homestay.
TheSan Blas islands*, in the Guna Yala region, are an idyllic archipelago of 365 islands where a proud indigenous community lives as its ancestors did hundreds of years ago. Visit on a boat tour — it’s a two-hour drive from Panama City — or drift along in a dugout canoe and delve into the complexities of a fascinating place where a surprising tolerance of gender fluidity means many men choose to live as women.
The best time to visit Panama is between January and mid-April, the driest period of the year. Waves are ideal for surfers during the rainy season and most cetaceans can be seen from August to September.
How safe is Panama?This is one of the safest countries to visit in Central America, although care should always be taken in cities. Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas so it’s best to carry only small amounts of cash. Stretches along the border with Colombia can be dangerous, but gun crimes rarely involve tourists.
How long do I need to see it?It may be a small country, but travelling in Panama and accessing remote areas can require a bit of time and patience. Generally speaking, ten days is a good amount of time to explore Panama’s major highlights. Using domestic flights between places like Panama City and Bocas del Toro in the north will help save on journey times.
Where’s the most beautiful place in Panama?It’s a tough call, but the San Blas islands are consistently regarded as being one of the most scenic areas of the country, due both to their idyllic scenery and the strength of indigenous culture still celebrated by communities.
Currency Panamanian balboa and US dollar are both used.
Inspired to visit Panama but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Expedia* and Caribbean Warehouse*. These are the best tours of Panama from our trusted partners*.
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