Ready for your dream Panama vacation? From the island vibes of Bocas del Toro to the cloud forests of Boquete, the beaches of the Pacific to the iconic Panama Canal, this guide outlines the ultimate Panama itinerary.
These easy-to-use and curated itineraries help find the best things to do in Panama—featuring jungle hikes, Caribbean islands, volcano trails, coffee tours, and canal cruises.
Want to make your Panama trip even more special? Learn basic Spanish before you go
- Panama City: A vibrant capital where sleek skyscrapers meet colonial Casco Viejo charm—plus, the Panama Canal steals the show.
- Bocas del Toro: Island-hopping paradise with overwater bungalows, turquoise waters, and a laid-back Caribbean beat.
- Boquete: A cool mountain retreat surrounded by cloud forests, coffee farms, waterfalls, and volcanic hiking trails.
- San Blas Islands (Guna Yala): A postcard-perfect archipelago of white-sand islands and crystal-clear waters run by the Guna people.
- Pearl Islands: Luxe meets tropical—think whale watching, yacht life, and deserted beaches just off the Pacific coast.
- El Valle de Antón: A lush volcanic valley with hot springs, hiking trails, waterfalls, and a famous Sunday artisan market.
- Portobelo: Colonial ruins and Afro-Caribbean culture blend in this historic port town on Panama’s Caribbean side.
- Santa Catalina: A surfer’s dream with big waves, diving access to Coiba Island, and a chill, off-the-grid vibe.
- Coiba National Park: Often called “the Galápagos of Central America”—this marine reserve offers world-class diving and unspoiled nature.
- Isla Taboga: The “Island of Flowers,” just a short ferry ride from Panama City—ideal for beach days and quiet getaways.
- Pedasí: A hidden gem on the Azuero Peninsula—rustic charm, empty beaches, sea turtles, and surf-friendly waves.
💡 Panama Tips
- The U.S. dollar is used: Officially called the Balboa, Panama uses U.S. dollars for cash. Coins may differ, but bills are identical to U.S. currency.
- Cash is essential in rural areas: While cards are accepted in cities and tourist hubs, small towns, taxis, and local vendors prefer cash — bring small denominations.
- Tipping is customary: 10% is standard in restaurants. Tip hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers for good service.
- Avoid tap water in most areas: It’s safe in Panama City and Bocas del Toro but not in rural or beach areas — stick to bottled or filtered water when in doubt.
- Public transport is affordable: Buses and metro in Panama City are cheap and reliable. Use a RapiPass card for convenience.
- Uber is widely used: It’s cheaper and more reliable than taxis, especially in Panama City. Avoid unmetered taxis unless you agree on the price beforehand.
- Traffic can be chaotic: Avoid driving in the capital unless necessary — consider domestic flights or buses for longer trips.
- Be ready for humidity: Panama is hot and humid year-round — wear light, breathable clothes and stay hydrated.
- Respect local customs: Greetings are warm — say “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes” when entering shops or speaking to locals.
- English is spoken in tourist areas: Spanish is the official language, so learning basic phrases will enhance your experience.
- Dry season is best for travel: From December to April, the weather is sunny and ideal for beaches and hiking.
- Safety is good in most areas: Avoid certain parts of Panama City at night, and be cautious in border zones — but overall, Panama is safe for travelers.
🇵🇦 Panama Menu
- Sancocho: The national dish — a light chicken soup with yuca, corn, plantains, and culantro (a local herb) — comforting and served year-round.
- Arroz con Pollo: Seasoned rice cooked with chicken, vegetables, and annatto — a flavorful, one-pot dish found at home and special events.
- Carimañolas: Deep-fried yuca rolls stuffed with seasoned beef or cheese — crispy on the outside and chewy inside.
- Tamal de Olla: A deconstructed tamale baked in a pot — made with cornmeal, chicken or pork, olives, and vegetables.
- Empanadas: Fried or baked pastries filled with cheese, meat, or chicken — popular street food and breakfast snack.
- Patacones: Twice-fried green plantain slices — crunchy and often served as a side with meats or seafood.
- Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef stewed in tomato sauce with peppers and onions — typically served with rice and beans.
- Guacho de Mariscos: A thick rice stew with mixed seafood, cilantro, and spices — rich, coastal comfort food.
- Ceviche: Chopped fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, onion, and herbs — found at fish markets and beachside shacks.
- Hojaldres: Fried dough similar to a flat doughnut — eaten at breakfast with cheese or eggs.
- Torrejas de Maíz: Corn fritters made with fresh ground corn — sweet or savory, and often served with coffee.
- Yuca Frita: Fried cassava sticks — a crunchy alternative to French fries, often served with garlic sauce.
- Chicheme: A sweet drink made from corn, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla — thick, refreshing, and found at roadside stands.
- Ron Ponche: Panamanian eggnog made with rum, milk, and spices — popular during Christmas and New Year’s.
- Seco Herrerano: A sugarcane-based liquor — Panama’s national spirit, often mixed with fruit juice or coconut water.
📅 Panama calendar
- Flower & Coffee Festival (January, Boquete): Floral displays and tastings of Panama’s top coffee in the highlands
- Jazz Festival (January, Panama City): World-renowned musicians and open-air performances
- Festival de las Mil Polleras (January, Las Tablas): National dress parade with folk dancing and music
- Carnaval (February/March, Las Tablas & Nationwide): Massive parades, water fights, and colorful costumes
- International Fair of David (March, Chiriquí Province): Agricultural exhibitions, food, music, and rides near Boquete
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) (March/April, Nationwide): Religious processions and beach escapes
- Corpus Christi (May/June, La Villa de Los Santos): Traditional dances and masked performances
- Festival de la Pollera (July, Las Tablas): Celebration of Panama’s national dress with dance and folklore
- Panama Independence Days (November 3–28, Nationwide): Parades, fireworks, and patriotic pride
- Christmas & New Year’s (December, Nationwide): Fireworks and family feasts — especially festive in Panama City and Bocas