Weather
As a tropical country not far north of the equator, Panama has two seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The rainy season runs from late April until November, but later in the season is the wettest time. In June, visitors should expect a bit of rain every day but not necessarily all-day torrents. The Pacific coast and Caribbean coast experience slightly different climates, with the Caribbean coast being wetter year-round.
As for temperatures, the annual average temperature in Panama is 86°F (30°C). Temperatures are a bit cooler in the rainy season but humidity is higher, which can be more uncomfortable than hot and dry conditions. The higher-altitude highlands are always a bit cooler than coastal areas.
Crowds & Costs
The rainy season is low tourism season in Panama, so costs are low and crowds thin. June is a good time to come if you're on a tighter budget but still want to enjoy some cultural and outdoor activities, as this month isn't as wet as later in the rainy season.
Where to Go
Panama's capital, Panama City, is full of cultural, culinary, and historic attractions that can be enjoyed no matter what the weather's doing. Tour the visitor's center at the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal, shelter from the rain at the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo, and wander the streets of Casco Viejo, the charming old part of town.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
Although the jungle national parks like the Darien National Park are essentially off-limits during the rainy season, you can still spot wildlife and birds in more accessible areas. Camino de Cruces National Park and Soberania National Park are both near Panama City and good for day trips.
Active travelers can enjoy white-water rafting in the rainy season, when the rivers are swollen with rain. Boquete and Chiriqui have some of the best rafting in Panama. Scuba-diving and surfing are also possible in the rainy season.
Events in June
Fiesta de Corpus Christi. Held 60 days after Good Friday, this religious festival is a colorful display of local culture in Panama. Chitre and Los Santos are especially good places to be during this festival. "Clean" and "dirty" devils dance through the streets, wearing horns and fascinating masks. This festival can also be in May, depending on the timing of Easter.
Traveling to Panama in June? Check out these great itineraries
Best of Panama City - 7 Days. Melding colonial history and bold modernity, the cosmopolitan capital of Panama is a thriving hub in Central America.
The Wonders of Panamá - 7 Days. Panama is a beautiful country brimming with history and diversity, and this week-long itinerary offers an exciting sampling of its many charms.
Panama Multi-Sport Adventure - 11 Days. Fly through a cloud forest, raft along a river, and trek up a volcano on this active 11-day itinerary.