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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: 5 days · 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.

Make the Most of Your Time in Panama

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
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...

In five days you can experience island living in Bocas del Toro
Map of 5 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Panama is a great amount of time to discover the highlights of Panama City and visit one of the country's many idyllic islands. First-time travelers seeking a...

With a week in Panama, you'll have time to go beyond the skyscrapers and Casco Antiguo of Panama City
Map of 1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in Panama is an excellent amount of time to explore the country's vibrant capital, hike in its highlands, and cruise between idyllic Caribbean islands. Panama City is a...

Panama Travel Advice

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

Our Latest Panama Content

With a week in Panama, you'll have time to go beyond the skyscrapers and Casco Antiguo of Panama City
Map of 1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in Panama is an excellent amount of time to explore the country's vibrant capital, hike in its highlands, and cruise between idyllic Caribbean islands. Panama City is a natural gateway, and a day or two here gives you ample time to explore its cultural highlights and the nearby Panama Canal. Then, include Valle de Antón, Boquete, or Santa Fe for time in the country's mountainous interior, while the San Blas Islands and Bocas del Toro are ideal spots for snorkeling and cruising among tropical islands.

Explore the culture and beaches of the San Blas Islands on this seven-day tour
Map of Panama City & San Blas Islands Sailing Escape- 7 Days
Panama City & San Blas Islands Sailing Escape- 7 Days

Blend city sightseeing with a remote island getaway on this blissful weeklong trip to Panama. Start by checking off the highlights of Panama City with a tour of historic Casco Antiguo, a spin around the mighty Panama Canal, and a day trip into the Afro-Panamanian culture and pirate history of Portobelo. Chart your course for the San Blas Islands next, boarding a luxury catamaran for four nights of sailing around a Caribbean paradise of shallow waters and uninhabited islands.

 Discover some of Panama's wildlife on this weeklong tour
Map of Rainforests, Cloud Forests & Beaches of Panama - 7 Days
Rainforests, Cloud Forests & Beaches of Panama - 7 Days

With a week to spare, you can check off Panama's jungles, cloud forests, and islands—and still have time to explore the vibrant capital. This nature-focused itinerary starts with a gastronomic walking tour of Panama City's historic center and then sends you into the highlands of Boquete to visit local honey and coffee farms. After an adventurous hike through the region's misty cloud forests, it's off to the Bocas del Toro archipelago for a cruise around its famed marine park and three days of sun, sand, and sea turtles.

Panama Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 5 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 10 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Panama
Travel specialist Jesse Barrera
active 52 mins ago

Jesse Barrera

Hi! I specialize in creating unique trip itineraries for all those keen on visiting the narrowest and longest country in the world: Chile. I believe travelling should be for everyone and can help...

read more...
Travel specialist Reyna Ulloa
active 2 days 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 Emily Solís
active 2 days ago

Emily Solís

Hello, I am Emily. I have a bachelor's degree in sustainable tourism. I am interested in knowing all about the culture, gastronmy, lige style of living, the beauties and the own particularities...

read more...
Travel specialist Isabel Acevedo
active 10 mins ago

Isabel Acevedo

My role as a travel experience specialist is to make your dream journey a reality. I leverage my extensive destination knowledge to offer personalized recommendations that perfectly match your...

read more...

Related Destinations

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Trip Reviews for Panama

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our first trip to Panama
Panama | Jan 19 - Jan 27, 2026

W
William L.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Feb 03, 2026
We had a fabulous experience with The Panama Trip. Isabel was our trip planner and she took care of all the details of our trip end-to-end. From the airport pickup all the way to our return. This was a customized private tour and her team more than met all our expectations. They provided excellent communication and support throughout the trip. We explored the Panama Canal, visited the Embera Quera community. Jean was our guide for this segment of the tour and he was very knowledgeable. He... Read more

We had a fabulous experience with The Panama Trip. Isabel was our trip planner and she took care of all the details of our trip end-to-end. From the airport pickup all the way to our return. This was a customized private tour and her team more than met all our expectations. They provided excellent communication and support throughout the trip. We explored the Panama Canal, visited the Embera Quera community. Jean was our guide for this segment of the tour and he was very knowledgeable. He got us on time to all our activities making sure we were ahead of the crowds. We sailed across the San Blas Islands. German was our captain and Iru the first mate. They were a great team and treated us like royalty. Iru"s cooking was amazing. This was our first trip to Panama and left the country with the desire to come back.

Local specialist: Isabel Acevedo
Isabel
Isabel Acevedo
Local specialist in Panama City | Replied on Feb 03, 2026

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure planning your first visit to Panama. I’m thrilled that Jean, German, and Iru exceeded your expectations with their knowledge, hospitality, and amazing cooking. Knowing you enjoyed the customized experience and left wanting to return is the best reward for our team. We can't wait to welcome you back soon!

Exceeded expectations!
Panama | Jan 9 - Jan 18, 2026

J
James B.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jan 25, 2026
Isabel was strong with knowledge, communication, and responsiveness. She was our "eye in the sky" throughout the trip guiding us through a wonderfully varied trip of discovery in Panama Read more

Isabel was strong with knowledge, communication, and responsiveness. She was our "eye in the sky" throughout the trip guiding us through a wonderfully varied trip of discovery in Panama

Hotel Reviews
Palmar Beach Lodge
Isla Bastimentos

No cars. No crowds. Jungle. Private beach. Great staff. Good food. Loved it!

Authenticity & Character
500 meter walk on a jungle path leads to the hotel located on an isolated beach on Bastimentos. Covered, outdoor dining. The sounds of monkeys and birds throughout.
Location
No crowds. Easy boat taxi to other beaches, snorkeling, and Bocas Town.
Staff
Very helpful and responsive. Once minor hiccup upon check in was no safe. One was installed within 20 minutes. Water taxi coordination was very helpful. They even checked in with us one evening we were in Bocas Town to coordinate pickup convenience during a rain shower. Above and beyond!
Cleanliness & Comfort
With a cabin in the middle of the jungle, we expected bugs, lizards etc. Outside yes, but none in the cabin!
Boquete Tree Trek Mountain Resort
Boquete

Loved the hotel's unique "off the grid" feel with cabins and "pods". Lots of activities (canopy zip lining, hiking etc.) make this an ideal spot if seeking that experience.

Authenticity & Character
Isolated at higher elevation. Beautiful views. Unique within the context of our experience as travelers
Location
Beautiful, isolated location with spectacular views. Off the beaten path and about a 20 minute ride ($15 taxi)up the mountain from Boquete. There is a free shuttle that runs throughout the day. Also note that there was a marked difference in temperature due to higher elevation. Include layers and pajamas in your planning if staying here.
Staff
The staff was friendly and responsive. They knew our names and our cabin number making us feel at home during our two nights there
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our cabin was very tidy and well-appointed.
Central Hotel Panama
Panama City

Location, location, location! Walk to all sites and restaurants within Casco Viejo. Plus and easy $4 Uber ride to Amador for a bike rental to ride the causeway. We spent 4 nights here in total and it was the perfect location. Breakfast was very good. We had snacks and drinks on the rooftop on our first night arrival. Very good, though we found some better value around town during the week.

Authenticity & Character
100+ year old hotel that has modernized without losing old world feeling
Location
see above
Staff
Friendly, helpful, efficient
Cleanliness & Comfort
Well appointed rooms with plenty of space. Very clean
Activity Reviews
Isla Colón Unveiled: A Boat Journey Through Bocas’ Best-Kept Secrets
Isla Colón Unveiled: A Boat Journey Through Bocas’ Best-Kept Secrets
Bocas del Toro

Starfish Beach, Bird island, lunch on the water. Another super day on the water!

Food
A restaurant on the beach after visiting bird island. I asked Mikey what he liked, and he said he always orders the fish soup. it was good, just know they use all of the fish parts...lol. We also got the snails which were very good. The Balboa was cold, and Everything was fresh of course!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mikey was captain with his first mate, Jordan. They are a lot of fun. Terrific sloth spotters, they were able to find one that we watched and filmed for probably 45 minutes. Mikey also prepared a wonderful pineapple treat served on a platter of fresh cut banana leaves and adorned with gathered hibiscus. Another birthday treat, and a kind touch.
Transport
transport was the same boat we had been using all week, just a different captain (they all work together). It was fun getting to meat so many different people each day.
Cultural Immersion: The Chocolate Traditions of Bocas Del Toro
Cultural Immersion: The Chocolate Traditions of Bocas Del Toro
Panama

Green Acres Cacao Farm. Included a nature walk with Gary, the owner/conservationalist, where we met sloths, monkeys, and poison green frogs while learning about the flora and fauna of the area. Sampled raw cacao, as well as the various finished product. Took some home of course. Highly recommend

Quality of Experience
We knew we would be learning about Cacao and the process. The bonus was the nature walk that included so much more than the theme of cacao.
Food
A different waterfront restaurant that was at least as good, maybe better than the previous! Family run, they tie your boat up to their dock, see you to your table and cook the food on a grill right there on the dock. Loved it!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
-Alejandro was our boat captain on this trip. He was a lot of fun, and took additional pictures which he shared with us. -Gary is the owner of Green Acres. He is passionate about his mission, and makes the tour interesting and fun
Transport
Alejandro took good care of us throughout the day and we had a blast. Cooler stocked with water and Balboa. Upon departure, he helped us with luggage from the boat to meet the taxi that he arranged to take us to the airport.
Cayo Zapatilla: Snorkel, Savor & Soar in Bocas del Toro
Cayo Zapatilla: Snorkel, Savor & Soar in Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro

Blue water, pristine beaches, lovely scenery. Found a sloth, saw dolphins. Plenty of snorkeling, and beach time on Zapatista.

Quality of Experience
Zapatilla was beautiful. Our captain dropped us on one side of the island. We explored the trails, then lounged on the beach on the other side of the island where a captain picked us up a couple of hours later
Food
Great vibe dock restaurant on the water (Restaurante Jasmin). Can only get there by boat. Try the whole red snapper if they have it!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Alejandro Robert was born and raised in Bocas. Knowlegeable, fun, and knew how to handle a boat. Cooler full of H20 and Balboa (Panama's National Beer) was a nice touch
Transport
On time. Well kept boat. Experienced and knowledgeable captain
Hiking Adventure in Boquete and Scenic Transfer to Bocas del Toro
Hiking Adventure in Boquete and Scenic Transfer to Bocas del Toro
Panama

Pipeline Trail was a good experience. Not a difficult hike for us novices. An area for bird watching, particularly the Quetzal, though not this time of year. Did cross some lovely mountain streams and saw a 1000 year old tree, which was cool!

Quality of Experience
As advertised
Food
A homemade picnic lunch prepared by Plinio was enhanced with a piece of cake, fresh strawberries, and local rum to celebrate a birthday. A surprising and kind gesture that is truly appreciated.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
It was fun to meet Plinio's son Sebastian during the hike. Uncle Pepe was back in the drivers seat. he was much more animated on the trip to the seaport, and it was a unique and fun time hearing his descriptions of the damn, lake and pipeline...all in Spanish, mind you (which we know very little) but he got the points across (along with some translation from the passenger seat. It was funny and fun, we had a great time!
Transport
Beautiful drive. We got to the ferry port safely and in plenty of time
A Sunrise Adventure at Volcán Barú: Witness the Dawn from Panama's Highest Peak
A Sunrise Adventure at Volcán Barú: Witness the Dawn from Panama's Highest Peak
Boquete

Stunning with views of Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as Costa Rica. A must

Quality of Experience
Needs to be seen
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The park only allows specifically licensed drivers to go to the peak. Plinio set us up with a driver who was experienced and had top notch equipment. While others were racing to the top, Elmer (sp?) just took his time and got us there in plenty of time. All of the vehicle drivers seemed to look after one another, which was reassuring.
Transport
On time, which is especially important at 330am. Elmer(sp?) knows what he is doing and has the right equipment to get it done.
Nature, Coffee, and Highlands in Boquete
Nature, Coffee, and Highlands in Boquete
Boquete

We are now big fans of Boquete! Plinio was a terrific guide. He started our visit at the visitors center which was a great way to get an overview of the area and set the expectation for the trip. Guided us through the local public park discussing history and pointing out flora and fauna. Butterfly House and Honey Tasting, then Coffee Farm tour and tasting. Full day, learned a ton, met a lot of nice people. Entirely enjoyable!

Quality of Experience
-The personalized coffee experience at Milagrosa with Plinio was a standout. Plinio knows the owner and is permitted to give a personal tour and tasting experience. Much different than a farm that has in house guides and schedule -the butterfly house and honey tasting was very interesting and relaxing. Lisa was our host there, and she spent much time teaching us about butterflies (and then honey). Liked this much more than we expected -We lucked out that the Boquete Flower Festival was occurring during our visit. Beautiful!
Food
Lunch in Boquete with Plinio and Uncle Pepe. Not a place would have found on our own, another reason to have a local guide. So good! He also recommended a restaurant (La Cueva del Pitufo) that he frequents with his family. Very good, and easy on the pocketbook!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Plinio is awesome! It was obvious that he is a popular/active citizen of the Boquete/Chiquiri. Everywhere we went, people waved, shouted, and greeted. He rode shotgun as his retired Uncle Pepe drove. Uncle Pepe spoke very little English, though he was a delight!
Transport
Plinio met us at the airport in David, and we were driven to Boquete (about 60 minutes). No hiccups and enjoyed the area overview as we rode.
Discover Panama: A Day of Culture, History, and Engineering
Discover Panama: A Day of Culture, History, and Engineering
Panama City

Our guide Jean was essential in efficiently moving us through the canal experience at the Miraflores locks. We got there early to beat the crowds, and he had an app that showed us the ships that were scheduled to move through the locks while we were there. After the lock experience, he took us to a unique view of the American Bridge at the entrance to the canal from the Pacific. We were the only "tourists" at that spot and would never have thought to go there without Jean. The day also included canal zone history, a trip to Amador, lunch, and a walking tour of Casco Viejo

Quality of Experience
The Panama Canal is one of those "wonders of the world" bucket list items for us and it was thrill to see it in person. An added bonus was seeing it from the air on our flight back later in the week from Bocas del Toro. We were able to comtemplate what we were viewing much better after our on the ground tour. Jean brought the day to live with his local knowledge and fun personality
Food
Lunch in Amador. It was fine, but felt a bit touristy for our preference. Not a complaint, just one things we would change in retrospect.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jean is a terrific guide. Knowledgeable, friendly, and fun. Made us feel right at home, and removed the stress that can come from navigating an unfamiliar city while on vacation.
Transport
Easy and on time.
A Gastronomic Journey Through Casco Antiguo Panama
A Gastronomic Journey Through Casco Antiguo Panama
Panama City

We thoroughly enjoyed this experience of flavors from the area. Every plate was unique (at lease to us) and the wine well matched. All items were chosen for us, which was absolutely fine! One suggestion would be to provide a sheet describing each plate and noting the wine chosen for the pairing.

Quality of Experience
Well organized, great food. Glad Jean (our guide) joined us so that we could continue to pick his brain about the area.
Food
Fresh, well-presented, delicious!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Friendly and fun. Great job pacing the plate presentation
Transport
Easy walk from our hotel. Jean, our guide, joined us and had everthing set up
Local specialist: Isabel Acevedo
Isabel
Isabel Acevedo
Local specialist in Panama City | Replied on Feb 02, 2026

Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a true pleasure being your 'eye in the sky' during your journey through Panama. I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the variety and discovery we planned for you. My goal is always to make sure my travelers feel supported every step of the way, and knowing you had a wonderful experience makes it all worth it.
I hope to welcome you back to Panama in the future!

Thank you for making our trip special for us ...
Panama | Nov 7 - Nov 11, 2025

Leigh
Leigh H.
Columbus, OH | Reviewed on Nov 12, 2025
Thank you for making our trip special for us and customized to our preferences. Jesse took the feedback and incorporated into the plan. Read more

Thank you for making our trip special for us and customized to our preferences. Jesse took the feedback and incorporated into the plan.

Hotel Reviews
The Hummigbird
Bocas del Toro

All the reviews online are accurate - absolutely beautiful and so peaceful.

Authenticity & Character
So serene and exactly what I was hoping for
Location
The beach and surf are so close by. It is down a very bumpy dirt road but loved the fact it was so Far out
Staff
Makes you feel like family
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spotless
Global Panama Hotel
Panama City

Very nice rooms and amenities like the pool, hot tub and gym. Great restaurant too

Authenticity & Character
Location
Nice and centralized but also quiet
Staff
Super friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spotless
Central Hotel Panama
Panama

This hotel is absolutely lovely and loved the location. They make you feel very special there. It is a beautiful hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Great history associated with the building and surrounding location
Location
Lots to walk around and see
Staff
Super friendly and welcoming
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spotless
Activity Reviews
Boca del Drago & Playa de las Estrellas
Boca del Drago & Playa de las Estrellas
Bocas del Toro

This is a great way to see starfish island and others

Quality of Experience
Very interesting and educational
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Excellent
Transport
Nice covered boat
Coral Cay and Red Frog Beach
Coral Cay and Red Frog Beach
Bocas del Toro

Super interesting and loved the guides. Good way to see all the different islands

Quality of Experience
Great guides
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Excellent
Transport
Nice boat ride
Panama Canal Partial Transit
Panama Canal Partial Transit
Panama City

Very informational and interesting - lots of yummy food

Quality of Experience
Food
Excellent - get breakfast and lunch and was a lot of food - big portions.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Awesome
Transport
Local specialist: Jesse Barrera
Jesse
Jesse Barrera
Local specialist in Santiago | Replied on Nov 12, 2025

Hi Leigh,

Thank you so much for sharing your kind feedback! I’m delighted to hear that your 5-day trip to Panama City and Bocas del Toro was special and that the itinerary reflected your preferences. It was a pleasure working with you and Will to fine-tune the details and create an experience that felt truly personal. From the energy of the city to the laid-back charm of the islands, I’m so glad you enjoyed both sides of Panamá.

If you ever decide to explore more of this beautiful country, I’d be happy to help you plan your next Panamanian adventure!

All the best,
Jesse

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