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Panama City Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Today, you can find divine food, plenty of shopping, and a vibrant nightlife scene in Panama’s capital. Casco Viejo, the oldest neighborhood of the city, is where you still find the early origins of the city when it served as an important trading hub between the New World and the Old World. Since the crumbling Spanish-colonial buildings of Casco Viejo were renovated in the 2000s, the area has evolved from a crime-ridden no-go neighborhood to Panama’s tourist hot spot.

Admittedly, Panama City doesn’t have a lot to offer in terms of landmarks and tourist sights, but it is a good place to spend a few days enjoying the amenities of a big city. It’s also a good base for visiting the Panama Canal, the rainforest, and nearby Taboga Island.

This guide to Panama City can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this massive capital city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Panama City

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Panama City

1. Wander Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo, the original Spanish-colonial settlement built in 1671, is a must-do and also a great place to stay if you’d rather not stay in the bustling metropolis part of the city. Everything is walkable in this gorgeous neighborhood that is home to some of the trendiest bars, restaurants, and boutique hotels. Visit the Panama Canal Museum for a bit of history as well as the Museo de la Moda to learn about the unique, vibrant tapestries made by the Guna indigenous people. You can also wander the cobblestone streets and watch the sunset at one of the many rooftop bars. If you’re a coffee fanatic and want to indulge, head to Café Unido.

2. Hang out in Metropolitan Park

The Metropolitan Park is a 575-acre rainforest within the city limits. This beautiful nature sanctuary is home to 227 bird species, 45 mammals, 14 kinds of amphibians, 36 different kinds of snakes, and 284 types of trees. There are 8 kilometers (5 miles) of trails here to enjoy and you can hike up to the top of Cedar Hill for beautiful panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal. Admission is $4 USD. You can also see 30 different species of butterflies housed on the butterfly farm for an additional $5 USD.

3. See the Panama Canal

One of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, the Panama Canal is definitely worth checking out if you’re in Panama City. The Miraflores Locks are one of twelve locks along the Panama Canal and the closest to Panama City. The canal took 10 years and over 40,000 laborers to build (over 5,000 of whom died during construction). There is a visitor center with an observation deck and, every time a ship passes through the canal, you’ll hear a detailed explanation of what is happening. Also, Miraflores has an interesting IMAX documentary on the history of the Canal with Morgan Freeman narrating. Admission is $20 USD.

4. Explore Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo (Old Panama) is a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site and forms the original part of the city. It was founded in 1519 by Pedrarías Dávila and was the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific Coast of the Americas — and the first planned town in the Western Hemisphere. In 1691, the city was attacked and destroyed by pirate captain Sir Henry Morgan. Despite several attacks, a huge fire, and an earthquake, you can still see some of the ruins of many of the original buildings including the Old Panama Cathedral. The remaining ruins are spread out over 57 acres, including the original cathedral. Admission is $15 USD.

5. Bike along Amador Causeway

Amador Causeway is made up of rocks excavated for the construction of the Panama Canal and connects Panama City with three small islands: Naos, Perico, and Flamenco. The 6-kilometer (4-mile) ultra scenic, colorful boardwalk is popular with cyclists and filled with all kinds of restaurants where you can stop for fresh seafood and take in the views (especially at sunset). You can rent bikes for about $15 USD per day if you want to explore by bike.

Other Things to See and Do in Panama City

1. check out mi pueblito.

This open-air museum is designed to give visitors a glimpse of village life in Panama. You’ll find replicas of colonial and indigenous buildings here and on Fridays and Saturdays they have folklore dance performances. The village is divided into three parts: an indigenous village, a rural village, and an Afro-Antillean village, showing aspects of these three different population groups in Panama. Admission is $3 USD.

2. Admire some colonial art

The Museo de Arte Religioso Colonial in Casco Viejo houses colonial religious art that dates back to the 16th century. Some of the art and artifacts even made it through the attack and sacking of the city by Henry Morgan and his crew in 1671. One of the most interesting pieces is the Arco Chato, a long arch that stood unsupported for hundreds of years (the arch was used to prove that Panama was not earthquake-prone, making it an ideal place for the canal rather than Nicaragua). This is a small museum and admission is only $1 USD, so it’s worth a quick visit.

3. Take a ferry to Taboga Island

Taboga Island is a little island 19 kilometers (12 miles) off the Pacific coast of Panama City. It’s easy to do as a day tour, with return ferries costing $24 USD. The ferries leave from Amador Causeway and the ride takes about 30 minutes. Explore the island’s village, chat with the locals, go on a hike, or just chill on the sandy beach. The beach is not the nicest as the water tends to be polluted but the ocean views towards Panama City and the Panama Canal make up for that.

4. Hike Cerro Ancon

The highest hill in Panama City makes for a great hike. It’s a steep 30-minute incline, but you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views. There are two viewing platforms: one facing historic Casco Viejo, and one facing the newer skyline that’s lined with skyscrapers. Look out for wildlife along the way – you’re likely to see toucans, iguanas, and pacas. A cab ride to the trailhead, which is right by Mi Pueblito, takes about 10 minutes.

5. Marvel at contemporary art

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Panama City features various permanent and temporary exhibits from Panamanian and Latin American artists. With over 700 items in the collection, it offers a comprehensive introduction to Latin American contemporary art. There are often free exhibits that provide an opportunity to hang out with the city’s artsy crowd too. It’s the only contemporary art museum in the entire country. Admission is $5 USD.

6. Take a Spanish course

If you’ve got some time to spend in the city, consider taking a week-long Spanish course. There are a number of schools here that offer programs with one-on-one or small group classes for $230-$250 USD per week. Try the Spanish Panama Language School or Casco Antiguo Spanish School for in-depth lessons that can help you master the language.

7. Learn about Marine Life

Punta Culebra Nature Center is a science and nature center run by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute that focuses on marine life. There is also a short nature trail with three-toed sloths, iguanas, and frogs. Explanatory signs are in Spanish and English, making it an educational exhibition that’s interesting for grown-ups and kids alike. Admission is $8 USD.

8. Visit the Biomuseo

The Biodiversity Museum was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and it was his first design in Latin America (Gehryd designed the Dancing House in Prague, the AGO in Toronto, and the Disney Concert House in LA) . It’s worth seeing simply for the stunning design, though spending a couple of hours inside the museum is a great way to learn about Panama’s biodiversity. The museum also highlights the natural and cultural history of the country. The Biomuseo has eight galleries for its permanent exhibits, each one covering a different topic. Tickets are $18 USD.

9. Check out the seafood market

Panama’s lively Mercado de Mariscos, the seafood market, is located on the western end of the Cinta Costera, the coastal road that connects Casco Viejo with the newer part of town. The market is divided into two parts: one section is where fresh fish and seafood are sold, and the other section is where you’ll find dozens of no-frills seafood restaurants where you can try some of the fresh catch. Try the local specialty, ceviche, made from raw fish and lemon.

10. Stroll Avenida Central

Avenida Central is the pedestrian walkway where you can soak up the city’s vibe. It’s noisy and fun, with lots of street food vendors and performers, making for some excellent people-watching. Cinta Costera is the city’s waterfront park area where you can enjoy views of the ocean while grabbing an ice cream or some street food as you soak up the pace of the city.

Panama City Travel Costs

Note: Panama uses both PAB and USD. There’s no real need to carry the local currency, the Panamanian Balboa, unless you’re paying for really small things on the street. For the most part, use USD (which has the same value as PAB).

Hostel prices – Hostels in Panama City are inexpensive, with a night in a hostel dorm costing between $12-30 USD per night for a 6-8-bed dorm. Private rooms start around $22 USD per night for a double room. All hostels offer free Wi-Fi and some offer free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – For a three-star hotel, prices start at $50 USD per night and go up from there. International hotel chains range from $75-135 USD.

Airbnb is available in the city, with private rooms ranging from $40-60 USD per night and entire apartments starting around $75-100 USD. Bigger apartments accommodating four to six people start at $150 USD per night. Book early otherwise prices can double.

Food – Like its neighbors, Panamanian cuisine features rice, black beans, yuca (a starchy vegetable similar to the potato), plantains, beef, chicken, and seafood. Common dishes include empanadas, chicken and rice, fried fish, and ceviche (a raw fish dish with lemon).

Local food stalls meals will cost around $4-6 USD. For that price, you will get a plate of chicken, rice, and beans — a staple dish in Panama. Western food such as pizza or hamburgers costs around $10-15 USD.

Panama City has the best international food in all of Central America, so take advantage of that while you’re in town. Many of the trendiest restaurants can be found in the Casco Viejo neighborhood, such as the Dining Room, Tantalo (a superb rooftop restaurant and bar atop the Tantalo Hotel), Donde Jose (fine dining Panamanian cuisine) and Casa Casco, which has three great restaurants, a rooftop bar and a nightclub. You’ll also find a number of great restaurants along Amador Causeway.

For a nice meal with wine, expect to pay around $50 USD. There are a lot of stylish, more expensive restaurants in Casco Viejo if you’re looking for something more upscale.

Domestic beer at a bar is around $2.50 USD. Cocktails at one of the popular rooftop bars are around $8-9 USD. A latte/cappuccino costs around $3.50 USD while bottled water is $1 USD.

If you plan on cooking your own food, expect to pay about $35-45 USD per week for groceries like rice, beans, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Panama City Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking around Panama City, expect to spend about $45 USD per day. This includes staying in a hostel dorm, limiting your drinking, cooking your meals, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free and cheap activities like hiking and wandering the Old Town.

On a mid-range budget of around $150 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, enjoy a few drinks, eat out for a few meals, take the occasional taxi, and do some paid activities like visiting the canal.

On a “luxury” budget of $220 USD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Panama City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Panama City is a pretty affordable place to visit. Unless you are dining on the higher end of things or staying in a chain hotel, you’re hard pressed to spend a lot of money here. However, there are always extra ways to keep your costs down. Here are the best ways to save money in Panama City:

• Stick to free activities – Most of Panama City’s sights can be visited for free: Casco Viejo, Amador Causeway, a stroll through the fish market and along Cinta Costera, the coastal road that offers stunning views of the bay and the freighters entering the Panama Canal.
• Eat at local food stands – Meals at local food stalls cost less than $5 USD. You’ll get rice, chicken, beans, and maybe another side plus a drink. Don’t expect a super tasty meal, but it is enough to fill you up.
• Avoid taxis – Buses are cheap and go everywhere in the city. Take the bus and save your money!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle. LifeStraw is my go-to choice as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Stick to beer – Beer is cheaper than other kinds of alcohol so if you want to drink, stick to beer.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Carry small change – Most taxis and small shops won’t accept larger bills for small purchases so make sure you carry change.
• Avoid hot water – Get rooms with cold-water showers. Hot water always costs a lot more. It’s so hot here anyway, you’ll hardly ever want hot water. Even I got used to cold-water showers, and usually, I get cranky without hot water!
• Stay with a local – There are tons of Couchsurfing hosts (and lots of community events) here, making this a great city to Couchsurf in. Pick up some tips and save some money by staying with a local!

Where to Stay in Panama City

Panama City has plenty of fun, affordable hostels. Here are my favorite places to stay:

• Hostel Mamallena
• Magnolia Inn
• Hostal Casa Areka

How to Get Around Panama City

Public transportation – It is easy to travel by city bus between Amador Causeway and Casco Viejo – buses have their destination written on the front. The main bus terminal is inside the Albrook Shopping Mall. If you think you’ll be taking the bus a lot, pick up a metro card at Albrook Terminal. The metro card is $2 USD, and then you can add however much money you think you’ll need. Since a bus ride is only $0.35 USD, adding only one dollar will get you four rides.

To recharge the card, you have to find a supermarket that offers this service (look for a sign that says Venta de Tarjeta y Recarga ) or head to Albrook Terminal. You’ll be able to navigate the bus system with the help of Google Maps.

Panama City’s first metro line opened in 2014 (the first metro system in all of Central America), but it is pretty irrelevant for tourists since it’s far away from the beaches and interesting sights. A ride is only $0.35 USD. The metro runs from 6am-10pm daily (even on holidays), with 14 different stations, running north and south and passing through the city center.

Bicycle – Cycling in Panama City is possible, but not very safe since Panama is known for its notorious drivers who often speed. The only places you can safely cycle at are Amador Causeway (where you’ll find several bike rental places) and Cinta Costera, the coastal beltway that links modern Panama City with the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood. You can rent bikes for about $15 USD per day.

Taxi – Taxis are cheap in Panama City. Be careful though: Panamanian cab drivers are known to try to rip off foreigners. Make sure to always negotiate your fare before the start of the trip, since the taxis don’t use meters. Note that taxis are cash only.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Panama City and is cheaper than taxis, so stick to using it if you need a ride.

Car rental – You won’t need a car to get around the city, however, they can be helpful for exploring the region if you plan on leaving the city. Rentals can be found for as little as $25 USD per day for a multi-day rental. Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 25, though some will accept drivers at 21 if they have a credit card.

When to Go to Panama City

Panama City has a short dry season between January and May, which is when there is little rain and you’ll get to enjoy clear blue skies. But since Panama is located only nine degrees north of the equator, temperatures are pretty consistent year-round.

The lowland regions, including Panama City, are always hot and humid. Daytime temperatures average 30-33°C (86-91°F), nighttime temperatures are around 21-23°C (69-73°F).

Rainy season in Panama lasts from mid-April to mid-December, but it usually only rains from late afternoon into the night, which means mornings and early afternoons can still be enjoyed. The rainiest month is November, and July and August are the months that see the least rain during the wet season. If you visit during the rainy season, pack a rain jacket and an umbrella.

You never have to deal with peak season crowds in Panama City – it never feels crowded, unless you run into a cruise ship tour group on one of the days a cruise ship docks in the port. The good news is that the cruise ships docking here are relatively small and that they usually depart at 5pm.

The only times of year that accommodation can book up (especially affordable hotels/Airbnbs) are during holidays and in February during Carnaval. If you’re planning to visit Panama City in February, look up the dates of Carnaval to avoid crazy crowds and inflated prices.

How to Stay Safe in Panama City

Panama City is generally safe but pickpocketing can occur, especially on city buses. Always be vigilant and don’t carry more cash on you than you’re planning to spend. Leave your passport and credit cards (other than the one you may be using) back at the hostel/hotel, don’t carry valuables in your purse.

Bag snatching also happens in Panama City – both on the street and in restaurants — so don’t leave your bag sitting on the chair next to you.

If you go out in Casco Viejo at night, but your hotel is in the newer part of Panama City, take a taxi or Uber back to your hotel. The El Chorillo neighborhood, adjacent to Casco Viejo, can be a bit sketchy after dark.

When taking taxis, negotiate the fare before the trip, or you might get ripped off. There have been frequent reports by foreigners about being overcharged for cab rides. If you don’t want to communicate with the driver or you don’t have cash on you, call an Uber via the app.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 911.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, before you leave on your trip.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Panama City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Panama City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Pedal Project

Things to do in panama city, panama: my complete 5, 7 & 10 day itineraries.

Have your OOO auto-responder set at the office, the plane ticket booked, but still wondering what to do in Panama City, Panama? I got you. In fact, I’ve got this so covered I just went ahead and made  5, 7 and 10-day itineraries, with each day featuring one of the best things to do in Panama City and a dinner pick from yours truly. I wanted to make sure you saw the best sites, leaving the rest of your days to fill how you please.

Not only did I not know much about this little country smack dab in the middle of the Northern Hemisphere, but I also had a heck of a time finding things for Panama City. Period. Like the capital city of Panama. Not Panama City Beach in the US. There were more than a few times that I found something online that looked nice. But Google Maps would send me on a casual 3,456 mile (5,562 km) walk to Florida. I don’t want the same for you, so I made a list of my favorite things to do here.

Plus, just for funsies, I paired each day’s adventures with one of my picks from the many delicious Panama City restaurants I taste-tested. For research. For you guys, not me. Annnyway…..here are some of the best things to do in Panama City & beyond.

Day 1: Walk along the waterfront and explore Casco Viejo

Depending on when you get into town, you might not want to jump right into the list of things to do in Panama City. Take it easy. Get oriented. Walk around the area you are staying in.

Whether you’re staying in Casco Viejo or the glittering high-rise part of town, it’s easy to access the waterfront. And it makes for a great walk. On Sundays, they even close part of the road to cars and leave it open just for cyclists. You know I’m on board for that.

Once you’re in Casco Viejo, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, you’ll find vendors along the walkway, plenty of opportunities to grab a coffee, and some unique artisan shops. I usually like to wait to buy souvenirs until I’m leaving a place (it gives me time to decide what I really want). But you should definitely spend some time enjoying the juxtaposition of the crumbling historic buildings, fully-restored Spanish architecture and modern skyscrapers in the distance.

You should also take time to appreciate the beautiful cloth mulas made by the women of the local indigenous tribes. I haven’t decided whether I’m going to frame mine or turn it into a throw pillow for the apartment I don’t have. But, needless to say, I got one.

Rooftop vibes and tapas at Tantalo Rooftop :

It won’t take you long to realize that Panama City restaurants tend to favor rooftops and ocean views. As it happens, one of the first things I like to do in a new city is find myself a good vantage point.  So, this worked perfectly. If you’ve been walking around Casco Viejo, you’re already next to Tantalo. They’ve got great tapas-style food, views of both downtown and Casco Viejo and some pretty magical mezcal mixed drinks. That’s definitely how you should start your vacation.

Day 2: See the Panama Canal

Is seeing the Panama Canal really one of the best things to do in Panama City? You have limited time. You came for an adventure-packed vacation and maybe even plan on clocking some hours on the islands. But….the Panama Canal?

Well, that’s what I thought. And I’m so glad I went – and that I went with a guide – because it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Panama City. I partnered with the guys at Barefoot Panama for this one.

I spent the entire day learning about what it was like to grow up in Panama when the area around the canal was still owned by the United States. And, of course, got tons of fascinating facts about the Panama Canal. Like, for example, that the captain of a ship has to cede control to let one of the Panama Canal captains take the ship through. Or, that the largest toll was $1.2 million dollars and that the smallest was less than 35 cents – for a guy who swam through. He was still assigned a captain, in addition to a man with a shotgun who watched for crocodiles. I can’t make this up.

Anyway, this is definitely one of the things to do in Panama City. Go early and you just might see a ship passing through the Miraflores Locks. That’s the section that lifts up or lowers the ships, moving them through the canal.

Wondering if you should opt for the IMAX? Just do it. When will you get to hear Morgan Freeman narrate a documentary of the Panama Canal that makes you kind feel like you were there helping build it with your own two hands? Probably never.

Delicious drinks and eats at Stranger’s Club :

Stranger’s Club is one of Panama City’s expat-owned restaurants. It’s an eclectic corner bar/restaurant with, again, a great selection of food and drinks. There’s no rooftop this time, but you’ll be well within proximity of all the hip bars if their strong cocktails have you feeling’ like you could keep going.

Day 3: Hike into the crater of an Extinct Volcano

Another one of my favorite things to do anywhere – including Panama – is to try to find a great hike to do. And, the Panama jungle has no shortage of those. The most unique trek I found was in El Valle, a town that set up shop right in the middle of an extinct volcano. Seems safe. The hike will take you up the rim of the crater and back down for some amazing views. You can take a 2-hour public bus to El Valle and follow the signs.

Or, if you have a little less faith in your bushwhacking and jungle trail-finding, you can enlist a guide. The guys at Barefoot Panama would be happy to take you here, too.

I had it all planned out and my hiking shoes ready. But, sadly, I just didn’t have time to make it work. It’s definitely on my list of things to do in Panama City when I return, though.

Cheers over beers at La Rana Dorada :

Post-hike beer anyone? Is that a nod I see? Then head over to La Rana Dorada, a local cerveceria (brewery). They’ve got everything you’d expect from a pub – tasty beer, pizzas and burgers – with the added touch that they make their beer right next door. I’m a big fan of beer and not very good at making choices, so a flight was right up my alley. How can you go wrong with that?

Day 4: Take a day trip to the San Blas Islands

Some of the most beautiful – if not THE most beautiful Caribbean islands are secretly hanging out in the water between Panama and Colombia. There are even multi-day sailing trips that will take you from Panama City, through the San Blas Islands and over to Cartagena, Colombia. Or vice-versa. That’s how I got to Panama and even found myself looking for things to do in Panama in the first place.

But if you don’t have 5 days to spare – and don’t want to end up in a different country – you can take a day trip. There are plenty of companies and captains that will take you out to the best of the San Blas Islands.

In total, there are more than 350 of them, so you won’t see them all. Forty-nine of the San Blas Islands are inhabited by the Guna Yala people, a self-governing indigenous tribe. They have their own customs, traditional dress and even laws for the region. For example, if you decide to take a coconut from one of the islands, you can be hit with a $300 fine. So best to just enjoy the palm tree forests, endless white-sand beaches, clear waters and beautiful reefs, leaving them how you found them.

It’s good to keep in mind that getting rid of garbage is a difficult task when you live on an island that’s only about 100 yards in diameter. So, follow Leave No Trace Principles: Take nothing, leave nothing. Your garbage goes right back with you on the boat.

If you do have time to spare and fall in love with the ocean views (trust me, it’s easy to do), you can stay on one of the San Blas Islands with one of the local families. You’ll get a hut and/or hammock and never be further than arm’s length from the Caribbean.

Fresh fruit and food at Mahalo :

Keep the Caribbean vibes going at Mahalo. It’s kind of out of an Instagram dream if I’m being honest. But the food is as good as the atmosphere. This was one of my favorite brunch spots, but they do have a full menu and are open late. Grab a smoothie and live in island paradise a bit longer before you step out onto the hectic streets and finish checking off your list of things to do in Panama City.

Day 5: Step into Panama’s untamed wilderness for some cave exploration

Panama is a small enough country that you’re never further than a short drive from some very wild and untamed jungle. And spelunking through the caves in Panama’s jungle near Bayano Lake was one of my favorite things to do in Panama. I mean, how often do you find yourself wading up an underground river with waterfalls flowing through the slot canyons and bats swirling overhead? If your answer to that is “often,” I’m very jealous.

For the rest of us mere mortals, it can take some effort to get off the tourist trail sometimes. But this is one of the Panama tours that will help you do just that. You’ll start in Panama City with a 2 drive toward the Darien Gap before ending up at Bayano Lake. A 45-minute ride across the lake in a wooden dugout will get you to the river mouth.

There, you start wading. The water levels will rise, the daylight will disappear and you’ll feel like you’re in another world. You kind of are. You’ll see wildlife, underwater waterfalls and more before grabbing a fish lunch served up by a local family and heading back to Panama City.

Street food or bust:

Get adventurous, stay adventurous. After a day of cave exploration, it would be weird to put on pants and sit down at one of the high-end restaurants in Panama City.

Instead, ask your guide where to get some great street food in town and he’ll steer you right. One of the best things to do in Panama City – and while traveling in general – is to try the local fare. In Central America, there is no shortage of street vendors, so grab some cash, prep your Spanish and go have a great time!

5 Day Itinerary Option: If you’re looking for 5 days of things to do in Panama City, this a wrap for you. Maybe you want to swap and make Day 1 your last, if you have an earlier flight. But the first half of my list where the can’t-miss things that just made it for me in Panama.

Travel is all about going your own way, though, so keep reading for more options or leave a bit of time open to get lost in this bustling city and discover new things all yourself.

Day 6: Visit museums and learn how to dance

I don’t think that Panama is exactly known for its museums, but it would be a shame to miss the Biomuseo . For starters, the building itself is a work of art by the famous architect Frank Gehry. Plus, it’s the only building in all of Latin America that he designed. And, you’ll have some stunning views of the Panama City skyline as you drive to the peninsula where the Biomuseo is housed.

Once you get done reveling at the crazy modern outside, you’ll have a couple hours’ worth of entertainment waiting for you inside as you wander through the exhibits and learn about how Panama was formed.

Done showing yourself around one of Panama City’s best museums? Let a local show the ropes when it comes to moving your hips. Salsa, bachata, ritmos and more – dipping your toes into the night scene of any country in Latin America will be a lot more fun if you know the basic steps to these dances. Pop into one of the many studios or check out Airbnb Experiences for a more intimate lesson.

I already primarily stay in Airbnbs when I travel, and just started using Experiences when I was in Panama. It’s a great way to support a local’s tourism business and learn about a place from the people who live there! Not signed up yet? Here’s $50 off .

See what there is at Lo Que Hay :

The name of this restaurant literally translates to “what there is” in English, but they do a whole lot more than plate up some meh leftovers. Lo Que Hay was started by a well-unowned 5-star chef. On the other end of the spectrum from his other high-end restaurant in Casco Viejo is this street-fare inspired hole-in-the-wall spot that puts a unique twist on traditional Panamanian food. Like a deconstructed wrap served with pickled veggies, patacones (plantains) and sesame butter.

Day 7: Have some of the world’s most expensive coffee and get a history lesson at the ruins 

Panama’s Geisha Coffee raises the bar for craft roasters around the world – but it comes at a price. And that price is up to $75 a cup. A. Cup. You read that right. Fortunately, this high-end coffee originated in Panama and can be bought a lot cheaper here. I’m a huge coffee fan. I even have a list of coffee shops around the world I want to visit. I know, I know. Weird, right? But you can also bet that I wasn’t going to let trying some Geisha Coffee slip off my list of things to do in Panama City.

Follow my footsteps and head to Casa Sucre. You’ll get to take your tastebuds on a new adventure while they explain the art of high-elevation coffee served pour-over style. Drink it alone – no sugar, cream or pastries – and sip slowly for the best taste.

Then, use the energy from your coffee visit to hop in a cab from Casco Viejo to Panama Viejo and walk through centuries of Panama City’s history. The ruins here are part of the original walled city that was founded in 1519. It was the first European city built on the Pacific Coast of the Americas and quickly became a gold and silver trading mecca. Unfortunately, the heyday was short-lived and pirates burnt the city down in 1671, killing thousands of people and leaving nothing but ruins behind. Today, you can see what’s left, visit the clock tower, walk along the wall and check out the museum.

Cafe hop for tasty treats throughout Panama’s historic streets:

There are lots of places that aren’t quit meals but are a bit more than a light bite waiting for you in Casco Viejo. And nothing is quite what it seems in Latin America. A run-down facade could be hiding a lush green courtyard and cut cafe or a hip, modern restaurant. Walk around, look in the windows, and wander in when something catches your eye. If you need inspiration for where to start, Royale Cookies and Cafe Coca Cola (the oldest cafe in Panama City) are right next to each other and show you different sides of the food scene in Panama.

7 Day Itinerary Option: If you’re staying in Panama City, seven days is a great amount of time to see most of the best things to do in Panama City. You’ll have a chance for a few day trips and plenty of nights to check out the awesome restaurants that are hiding throughout the city.

Staying longer? Good for you. You should. There are so many things to do in Panama beyond Panama City that you certainly can’t do it all in a week. Why not stay a bit longer?

Day 8-10: Become a beach bum in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Okay, so this is technically not in Panama, but being just a quick 45-minute flight away, it might as well be. Remember how I said the San Blas islands were some of the best and most beautiful Caribbean islands?

Well, Bocas del Toro islands are certainly nothing to shake a stick at, either.

Maybe they are even more beautiful. I don’t know. You’ll just have to go and decide for yourself. What I do know, though, is that nothing beats snorkeling in crystal clear waters, floating over thousands of starfish on your way to an uninhabited island and finishing your day with a family-style plated dinner at a bungalow while the stars start to twinkle overhead.

And there are daily – I repeat daily – flights from Panama City to Bocas del Toro. Two, in fact. So, yea, these might be the best Caribbean islands, too. Why do we have to pick, anyway?

Embrace island life at Bocas Brewery and Bambuda Lodge :

Don’t make these spots an either/or situation. They’re too tasty. If you’ve got a weekend in Bocas Del Toro, you’ve got time to hit up Bocas Brewery on the main island in Bocas Town (walking distance to the airport) for local-make, tropical-inspired craft beer (passionfruit IPA, anyone?) and tacos AND stay at least a night at Bambuda Lodge on Bastimentos Island for one of their famous plated dinners. Their chef prepares a menu each day, you pick from the options and then sit back and let them handle the rest. All that relaxing probably pairs best with a Daiquiri.

Other things to do in Panama:

Every time I go to a new place or am planning an upcoming trip, the first thing I do is make a Pinterest board full of travel ideas . Then, I start mapping out which ones are close and which ones I’ll have time to see. Of course, I can’t see everything every time but I always have a list much longer than just what I share.

I figured I’d give you the short list of things that I simply ran out of time to do in Panama, but that I’ll definitely be checking out in future visits. Several of these require a day trip or more, but would (in my opinion) be totally worth the effort:

• Visit monkey island in the middle of the Panama Canal
• Camping in the jungle near Bayano Lake
• Kitesurfing
• Bungee jumping
• Waterfall hunting in Boquete
• Surfing in Playa Venao

Planning an upcoming visit to Panama? Let me know if you check out any of the places on this list – I always love to get your opinion.

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Panama City Travel Guide: Visiting the Hub of the Americas [2023]

· a detailed guide with everything you need to know for your next trip to panama city, panama including getting to and around the city, the best things to do, and more ·.

Panama City, the place that links North and South America, is an incredible tropical destination filled with world-class food, incredible Pacific and Caribbean beaches, and of course, the only waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

On top of all of that, Panama City is the world’s only metropolis that contains a rainforest within its city limits! Panama City is one of the most international places in all of Latin America, and the diversity is on full display – between the languages you hear on the streets and cuisines from all over the world. 

We had an incredible time on our visit, and with this guide hopefully you will too.

Our Panama vlog covers the highlights in Panama City and also our absolutely EPIC hike to Cerro Los Picachos

Best Things to Do in Panama City

Panama City is an incredible place with so much to do. The city itself feels like Miami, except plopped into a tropical rainforest climate. Well, I guess Miami already feels that way! Jokes aside, this Central American gem deserves a visit, and here are some of the best ways to spend your time.

1. Wander Around Casco Antiguo

Casco Antiguo is the “old town” area in Panama City. Filled with beautiful streets, stunning architecture, top-tier restaurants, and thrilling rooftop bars, this is where most tourists spend the majority of their time.

There is definitely no shortage of restaurants and cafes here – in fact, most of the places in the “where to eat” section are in Casco Antiguo.

But in addition to the great food and nightlife, there are plenty of other beautiful things to see. You can go for a walk along a pedestrian walkway overlooking the Pacific Ocean, visit the Plaza de Francia, admire the many murals and quaint alleyways, and marvel at the incredible churches, including the city’s cathedral.

One very popular thing to do in Casco Antiguo is head to one of its countless rooftop bars in the evening, many of which offer awesome views of the city.

2. Explore Panama City’s Natural Surroundings

Several Uber drivers and locals that we talked to in Panama City have a very salty opinion of Costa Rica because they say that their northern neighbor has nothing that Panama doesn’t have, other than good marketing by its tourist industry.

They say that so much emphasis has been put on marketing the city and canal as major tourist destinations that people don’t realize that the natural sites surrounding Panama City are breathtaking. From the rainforest park that is literally within the city limits, to the Valle de Anton just an hour north to the awesome beauty that extends even further north, Panama is every bit as beautiful and naturally breathtaking as Costa Rica.

The sunrise hike at Cerro Los Picachos was one of the best experiences of our lives.

We opted to take a day-long tour with Travelling Souls Panama to go for a sunrise hike at the Cerro Los Picachos and it was literally one of the best experiences of my life. This breathtaking mountain is about two and a half hours north of Panama City and hiking it was one of the most rewarding challenges of my life.

While the hike isn’t super intense and is very short, it is very steep and very scary to someone like me, who is pretty afraid of heights.

Whether you head to Cerro Los Picachos or not, I definitely recommend visiting some of the stunning nature that this country has to offer, and I even more strongly recommend doing it with Josias at Travelling Souls Panama.

3. Try Panamanian Geisha Coffee

If you’ve read my previous posts, like my Abu Dhabi Travel Guide , for example, you know that I am a coffee fiend. I’ve worked in the coffee industry for several years and definitely consider myself to be a coffee snob.

When we decided to head to Panama, one experience stood out to me as a “must-do” – trying Panamanian Geisha coffee. Geisha coffee is a specially-cultivated type of coffee that requires very specific growing environments, including extremely high altitudes.

While a handful of countries produce Geisha coffee, including Ethiopia where it originated, Panama has become the consensus expert in Geisha coffee cultivation.

Currently, Panamanian Geisha coffee holds the record for being the most expensive coffee on the planet, with a pound of beans costing over $1,000. Needless to say, trying Geisha coffee in Panama was a must for me.

While I definitely don’t see the $1,000 hype, it was definitely a good cup of coffee with very unique flavors. In Casco Antiguo, you can head to Casa Sucre Café where you can get a cup of this liquid gold for $10. The café is also very cute and homey, and you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

4. Take a Trip to the San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are easily the favorite beach getaway for the locals of Panama City. Located a couple of hours away by a combination of bus or car and ferry, the San Blas Islands are some of Panama’s most accessible Caribbean gems. The water is beautiful and crystal clear, the amenities and activities are an awesome blend of relaxation and adventure, and the retreat away from the fast pace of the city is serene.

Once you’re there you’ll find countless activities, including renting four-wheelers, snorkeling, diving, and more. While you can drive there yourself, another option to consider is taking an organized day or several-day tour, which will handle the transportation, lodging, and activities for you while also offering a knowledgeable guide.

5. Go for an Urban Hike at Cerro Ancon

Cerro Ancon is a Hill that sits in between the new city and the old city and provides some stunning views of both sides. This is a common place to go for an urban hike, and we definitely recommend going for sunrise.

If you go in the early morning there is a good chance to see all kinds of wildlife, including toucans, monkeys, and sloths! There are three different lookouts that you can access. The first two are totally legal, and if the access gate on the road is closed it is completely legal to go through the hole in the fence to the right of the road.

The third lookout, which is higher up the hill and sits at the base of the flagpole, is technically off-limits and considered trespassing, but people go up there all the time anyway. Regardless, Cerro Ancon should absolutely be something you check out next time you’re in Panama City.

From the entrance of the hike, it takes about 30-45 minutes to get to the top of the hill. The park opens very early in the morning and going for a sunrise hike is totally acceptable and definitely worth it! You can either Uber, taxi, or drive directly to the entrance, or you can opt to take the metro to 5 de Mayo station and walk about a mile and a half to the entrance.

6. Check out the Panama Canal

It’s hard to put together a Panama City travel guide and leave out the Panama Canal, which is one of the greatest spectacles of human engineering on the planet. While the idea of digging a trench through a skinny country to connect to big oceans might not sound like a major project or accomplishment, once you see it you’ll feel otherwise.

The engineering that went into the canal was incredible, and once you add the fact that it was built over a century ago, it becomes even more impressive.

One fact that very few people realize is that the construction of the Panama Canal cost more American lives than most wars that the United States has ever fought in, mostly as a result of diseases like malaria, dysentery, and yellow fever.

One tip to save money and skip the lines is to head to the restaurant by the Miraflores locks instead of going to the official viewing platform. While the platform normally has long lines and charges very high prices, the restaurant offers great views of the canal and the ships passing through it, and all it costs you is a beer or a coffee.

The Best Places to Eat in Panama City

As I said before, Panama City is one of the most international cities in all of Latin America, and you can find top-tier food of every major global cuisine. From Chinese, Japanese, and Indian to Mexican, Italian, American, and French, you can find just about anything you’re looking for.

These are some of the places we chose to visit and really loved. Unfortunately, some of the top places in the city that we planned on visiting were still temporarily closed because of the pandemic, but these ones were open and earned our stamp of approval!

Great Coffee Shops in Panama City, Panama

1. Café Unido

Caffe Per Due is more than just a café, actually. It’s a full-blown Italian restaurant run by real Italians in the heart of Casco Antiguo. While they do have good, authentic Italian coffee, the other highlight here is the pizza. We got a Margherita pizza and a Calabrese Pizza, and both were wonderful.

The restaurant is very small, but it’s a great place to get work done for an afternoon while snacking on some great pizza and sipping a fantastic cappuccino.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

2. Casa Sucre

Casa Sucre is adorable, and the barista who was working during our visit was an extremely kind man. I had an ice-dripped coffee which was very well done, and I followed it up by trying their Geisha pour-over. Both were awesome, and the vibe in the café is really calm and relaxing.

It’s another awesome place to sit for an afternoon and get work done, or even soak up some cool air while planning your next stop in the city. Like Caffe Per Due, it’s also a small business, which we all need to support in these hard times!

Best Breweries and Bars in Panama City, Panama

1. casa bruja.

Like La Rana Dorada, Casa Bruja is a great craft brewery in the heart of Panama City. Its brewhouse is in Costa del Este, which is a bit out of the way from Casco Antiguo, but definitely worth the bus or Uber if you’re into some good beers.

Their goal is to create a new beer every month to keep you on your toes, as they believe that predictability is boring. They’ve stuck to it pretty well, too – in their 8 years of operations, they’ve come up with 60 different beers. Not all of them are on tap at any given time, but you can definitely expect some high-quality brews.

On public transportation, you can take either the S487 or the E664 from Cinco de Mayo Station to Costa Azul Station.

2. The Blue Moon TapHouse

Run by Blue Moon itself, this restaurant and bar serves top-notch food and a wide variety of craft beers. The facility itself is beautiful in the newly renovated Casa Velasquez, and its location in the heart of Casco Antiguo makes it incredibly easy to visit.

If you’re a fan of Blue Moon, you’ll be excited to hear that the Blue Moon TapHouse also serves other, less popular varieties of Blue Moon that are very hard to find in stores. If you’re looking for a place for dinner or even just to grab a drink, look no further.

3. La Rana Dorada

I always love checking out the national beers wherever I go, but I also have a hard time saying no to quality breweries. La Rana Dorada is one of those! They make high-quality brews, with 7 or 8 different varieties on the menu at any given time.

The best part about this place, which has several locations throughout the city, is that they run a happy hour from 12 to 6 every day with 50% off of all beers. This is definitely a solid deal, especially considering the prices are awesome to begin with.

I went to two separate locations, and one of the bartenders even offered me a free 2 oz. sample of every beer on tap after he told me the flight wasn’t included in the happy hour. Their Pale Ale is great, but my favorite was actually their Saison, which was a seasonal rotation they had on tap.

Best Restaurants in Panama City, Panama

1. fonda lo que hay.

This trendy place is located right in the heart of Casco Antiguo, and it’s totally worth checking out for dinner. It’s a nice smart casual spot with a diverse menu, and everything is very good. We got their house burger and their fried fish with plantains and both dishes were awesome.

The prices were surprisingly low for the quality of the place, too, and we only paid about $30 total after tip for our whole meal. Definitely worth a visit.

2. El Trapiche

This place is much more dialed back and serves awesome Panamanian food. It is a local chain and has several locations throughout the city. The breakfast is great and widely recommended, and a handful of Uber drivers each recommended stopping by for their chicken and rice. Traditional, local, and delicious, El Trapiche is a place you should definitely hit on your trip to Panama City.

3. Coca Cola Cafe

Coca Cola Café feels like a hole in the wall while you’re there, and you may be surprised to find out that it is one of the oldest, most famous restaurants in the whole city. It is not visually impressive and looks pretty average on the inside, but the food is delicious and super cheap.

We stopped here for lunch and got fried fish and a beef tenderloin sandwich. Super basic, very tasty, and too cheap to be true. Check it out.

How to Get to Panama City

Panama City’s airport is a major hub. If you read my guide on finding cheap flights , you know that is supposed to be a good thing. Tocumen International Airport (PTY) , which is Panama City’s main airport, is actually called the Hub of the Americas because of the enormous volume of flights that it runs.

Yet, there are rarely cheap flights to and from the United States.

The part that we found to be funny is that flying through Panama City is often significantly cheaper than flying to Panama City.

For example, we saw plenty of flights from the United States to South American countries for around $350 round trip, while the cheapest flight on our dates to Panama City was closer to $500 round trip. The even funnier part is that the expensive flight going to Panama City is the same first leg as the flight to South America.

So, if you pay the cheap price to fly all the way to Brazil, you’re on the same flight as the person that paid hundreds more to go half the distance. Weird.

Anyway, to get to Panama City you simply need to fly into Tocumen International Airport. You don’t really have another option, as the closest alternative would be flying into San Jose in Costa Rica which is about 12 hours north of Panama City, or David, which is a city about 8 hours north. Also, Colombia isn’t an option if you’re looking to drive, as there is literally not a single road connecting Panama to its southern neighbor.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

To get from the airport into the city, you have two main options: take a taxi or Uber, or take a bus and then connect via the metro.

Taxi from the Airport into the city

If you take a taxi, be sure to get a certified cab from the airport. If you’re calling an Uber, just walk outside of the terminal and cross a couple of lanes until you get to the “passenger pickup” area.

Bus from the Airport into the city

If you’re taking a bus, follow the signs in the airport leading you outside to the bus stop. You’ll need to cross the street to catch the buses heading toward the city. The problem with this is that you can’t use the buses or metro without a metro card, which needs to be bought at a metro station in the city.

Uber from the Airport into the city

What we wound up doing was taking an Uber into the city from the airport for about $20 and then using public transportation to get to the airport when we left, as we had metro cards at that point.

Metro from the Airport into the city

The best way to get to the airport from the city on public transportation is to take the metro to 5 de Mayo metro station, walk a half block to the 5 de Mayo bus station, and take the 482 line all the way to the Airport stop, which is about 40 minutes later. From here it’s a very short walk into the terminal.

How to Get Around Panama City

METRO | BUS | UBER | SCOOTER

Panama City is wonderfully connected via public transportation. There is only one metro line, but it takes you right through the spine of the city. It is also one of the cleanest, best metro systems we’ve been on in our lives – comparable to Shanghai, China!

There is also an expansive network of metro busses that take you just about everywhere you can imagine within the city and its nearby neighborhoods. To use the metro and the buses you need to buy a metro card. You can buy one at a metro station for $2.

Each trip on the bus or metro costs $.35, which is extremely affordable! Keep in mind you can’t travel on public transportation without a metro card, as they do not accept cash.

Uber in Panama City

If you don’t like using public transportation or need to get somewhere that isn’t conveniently reached by bus or subway, your best bet is Uber. Uber works wonderfully in Panama City, and the prices are pretty affordable; you can go just about anywhere for $2-5. Like always, as long as you make sure you’re getting in the right car, Uber is perfectly safe, too!

Also, there are shareable electronic scooters here, which are especially handy for getting around Casco Antiguo.

– R E A D –

Is Panama City Safe to Visit?

Panama City is extremely safe, especially by Latin American standards. Like any place, there are areas that you shouldn’t visit, and flashing your wealth and shiny watches around isn’t ever a wise choice. All in all, if you use some common sense, it is unlikely that anything will happen to you – even at night.

Panama is extremely safe, especially for Latin American standards.

If you’re going to walk at night, try to stay among a group of people. While Casco Antiguo is a very safe area and is famed for its nightlife, the area right outside of Casco Antiguo is not quite as safe – in fact, one lady on a bus told me not to pull my phone out of my pocket there, even during the day.

While I think that was an exaggeration and I never once felt targeted or threatened, a local always knows better than a tourist, so I’d be weary there just in case. With that being said, if you keep your wits about you, it’s unlikely anything will ever happen. For reference, the average parts of Panama City felt safer than the average parts of most big U.S. cities.

Is Panama City Worth Visiting?

The only negative thing I have to say about Panama City is that the weather is brutal. Other than that, this city truly is an incredible destination to visit. From outstanding restaurants, to a charming Old City, to spectacular nature and an urban rainforest, Panama City, Panama has a long list of great things to do.

Many see Panama City as a gateway to other places. Many travelers pass through Panama City, Panama on their way to the Chiriqui region, Bocas del Toro, or to South America, and surprisingly few actually stick around to see all that this tropical capital city has to offer.

After all of our travels through Latin America, we can honestly say that Panama City, Panama is unique and worth a visit. To me, it is very similar to San Jose, Costa Rica but with a lot more to do. There is more to Panama City than just the Panama Canal, and I highly recommend checking it out if you have the opportunity.

Our Final Panama City Tips

Be prepared for unbearably humid weather.

Firstly, Panama City is extremely humid and pretty hot all year round. Packing breathable clothing is definitely a good bet, as even walking a block makes you break a sweat. This also helps when you head to nature destinations outside of the city, as the rainforest is even more humid than the city.

Make sure your accommodation has AC

Secondly, do yourself a favor, and make sure wherever you stay has air conditioning. If it doesn’t, you might die. That’s an exaggeration, but honestly, you’ll really be very uncomfortable at night if you don’t have air conditioning.

Pack an umbrella if you’re going during rainy season

While we’re talking about the weather, be sure to pack umbrellas or ponchos if you’re heading to Panama City during the rainy season, which runs from about May to December – literally most of the year. As one Uber driver explained to me, you never know what you’re going to get.

The sky could look extremely gloomy and it will never rain, or it can appear to be a gorgeous day and within 5 minutes a thunderstorm starts. The good news is that the rain doesn’t tend to last very long, and most showers clear up relatively quickly.

You can use the US dollar

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that Panama has it’s own currency called the Balboa, but it is pegged in value directly to the dollar, and the dollar is also in circulation in Panama, meaning it is an official currency. If you’re coming from the United States, there is no need to convert any cash before your trip, but I would recommend bringing cash from home because foreign ATMs always tend to smack you with fees.

The airport does NOT have free Wi-Fi

Speaking of stupid fees, be aware that the airport does not have free Wi-Fi! This was probably the first big airport we have ever seen that doesn’t have free Wi-Fi. Technically, there is free Wi-Fi, but you only get 30 minutes of low-speed access per device the entire time that you’re in the airport. After that, you need to pay anywhere from $5 for an hour to $10 for four hours of Wi-Fi access.

So, if you plan on using your phone or computer for anything important while waiting for your flight and you don’t have a data plan during your trip in Panama, be prepared to pay for it.

That’s all we have for you about Panama City! Hopefully, this guide helps you with planning and epic Panama City getaway.

If you have any questions about visiting Panama or going on the Ola Hiking adventure, drop a comment below !

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Panama City Panama Bucket List: Cool Experiences & Places

Are you headed to the country of Panama and looking for the best bucket list things to do in Panama City? You have come to the right place! I’m sharing some of my favorite experiences in and around the city. 

Panama City, Panama. The name typically brings on thoughts of those colossal cargo ships gliding through the iconic Panama Canal, a testament to human ingenuity. Sure, watching them navigate the canal is undoubtedly a bucket list experience , but trust me, this city has a whole lot more in store to wow you—from savoring fresh ceviche at busy markets to getting lost in the streets of Casco Viejo.

Activities & Attractions Not to Miss in Panama City, Panama

1. watch the ships pass through the panama canal .

Can you imagine giant ships gracefully moving through a narrow passage? This is not in a sci-fi movie, but the real deal at the Panama Canal, especially at the Miraflores Locks (one of its three locks.) On my recent Five-Hour City Tour & Panama Canal Adventure with Conozca Panama Primero Tours, I got a front-row view of this engineering marvel and its history.

The idea of linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through a canal began in the 16th century to avoid the dangerous trip around South America. After failed attempts by the French in the late 1800s, the United States took on the challenge in the early 20th century. The canal’s completion revolutionized global trade as we know it.

Today, the Panama Canal sees around 25 ships daily, taking 8-10 hours for a full crossing. Each lock adjusts water levels, lifting or lowering ships to the next “step.” 

2. Eat Ceviche at the Mercado de Mariscos

Mercado de Marisco at the Cinta Costera Causeway is a large, open-air fish market with a wide variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, lobster, and octopus. There are also several restaurants on-site where you can buy cooked seafood dishes.

Anthony Bourdain himself devoured the ceviche there, and let’s be real, the man knew good eats. The best part is that a styrofoam cup of ceviche will cost under five bucks. 

TIP: There’s plenty of restaurants to choose from, but I went to the busiest one at the time, El Bote Pty—and it was delish!

3. Try Geisha Coffee at Cafe Unido (the World’s Most Expensive Coffee)

Coffee connoisseurs, prepare to have your minds blown. Cafe Unido serves up the world’s most expensive coffee – the legendary Geisha. Each pound of these coffee beans reaches up to a jaw-dropping $600 due its rareness, meticulous production, and unique floral-citrus flavor. At $12 a cup at Cafe Unido, it’s a splurge, but worth every sip for the bucket list experience.

4. Plaza De La Independencia (Independence Square)

Step into the heart of Panama City at Plaza de la Independencia, a town square steeped in history and buzzing with life. Imagine a postcard come alive – grand colonial buildings, like the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral, frame the scene. This wasn’t just a pretty square, though; it witnessed a pivotal moment in 1903 when Panama declared its independence from Colombia.

5. Visit Plaza De Francia

Originally a military parade ground, Plaza de Francia (French Plaza) now honors the French role in attempting to build the canal, showcasing their efforts and sacrifices through commemorative plaques and statues. You can also see a statue of France’s national symbol standing tall atop a majestic obelisk, the Gallic rooster.

6. Get Lost in the Old City of Casco Viejo

Lose yourself in the living museum that is Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where every corner whispers a story. Built in 1673 after the original Panama City was sacked by pirates, it’s a living testament to resilience.

Because of its small size this historic gem is a pedestrian’s paradise, with plenty of sights to see as you walk, like the iconic white twin towers of the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria or the hundreds of hanging hats along La Calle De Los Sombreros (Hat Street).

7. See the Wildlife at Punta Culebra Nature Center

Escape the city bustle and head over to Panama’s incredible biodiversity at the Punta Culebra Nature Center . Walk through a dry forest along two short trails filled with free-roaming monkeys, sloths, and vibrant birds. Then, head indoors to the “Fabulous Frogs of Panama” exhibit, where a chorus of croaks from its resident amphibians will greet you. This was my favorite part of the nature center!

You can also dive into the fascinating world of marine life at the touch tank, where you can gently stroke sea stars and curious turtles.

8. Walk through the BioMuseo

You can’t miss this colorful architectural marvel. Designed by Frank Gehry, the BioMuseo houses interactive exhibits that’ll have you buzzing about biodiversity and the wonders of the Panamanian isthmus. Think giant sloths, vibrant coral reefs, and even a peek into the construction of the Panama Canal – all brought to life with a dash of artistic flair.

9. Sip on Rum at Pedro Mandinga

Experience a piece of Panamanian culture with a visit to the legendary Pedro Mandinga rum bar in Casco Viejo. Sip on handcrafted rums and cocktails made with local ingredients, soak up the coy atmosphere, and listen to the rhythm of Panamanian music. It’s a fun spot to hit up before dinner, and I highly recommend their Mandinga Mule!

10. See the Iglesia San Felipe Nativity Scene

Iglesia San Felipe is a pretty church in Panama’s Casco Viejo, but the real draw is a large miniature Nativity scene covering almost one side of one of the church’s rooms, meticulously crafted to depict biblical villages and buildings in stunning detail.

TIP: It’s kind of hidden at the back of the church and through the large wooden door. Then go down a few stairs and you will enter a door on the left.

11. Take an Instagram-worthy Photo Down La Calle de los Sombreros

As you wander the charming streets of Casco Viejo, don’t forget to look up. Be prepared to be dazzled by one of the most Instagrammable of all the Panama City attractions, La Calle de los Sombreros, or “The Street of Hats”. You know I had spent quite some time there!

This spectacle unfolds along Calle 1a Oeste, where hundreds of Panamanian hats of all shapes, sizes, and colors dance overhead. 

12. Visit the Museo de la Mola

Get a glimpse of Panama’s indigenous art at the Museo de la Mola , where creativity knows no bounds. The museum, offering free admission, showcases the intricate craft of the Guna people, particularly their vibrant textile art known as “molas.” It’s a small museum, but packed in culture.

13. Walk the Paseo de las Bóvedas (Bougainvillea Walkway)

Take a walk through Paseo de las Bóvedas, where a tunnel of bougainvillea is the main star of the show, but that’s not all. This historical stroll treats you to a view of the Pacific Ocean and the Panama skyline. Above, colorful bougainvillea flowers make the scene pretty dang Instagram-worthy. Walk along the path, and you’ll pass ancient walls that have witnessed pirate tales and colonial battles. It’s like a history book, but with a view!

Plus, there’s little souvenir shops along the way. I bought myself the cutest bracelet for $10.00.

14. Eat Some Local Food

Panama’s culinary scene reflects its rich history, blending indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and Spanish influences into a mouthwatering mix. Indulge in fresh-caught seafood like ceviche, marinated in citrus and spices, or savor hearty stews like sancocho, brimming with chicken, beef, and vegetables. For something heartier, dive into carimañolas, fried yucca balls filled with savory meat or cheese.

TIP: Some of the best spots I recommend for some local grub include the Mercado de Mariscos fish market, El Trapiche (get the Fiesta Panamena that has nine different specialties!), and Fonda Lo Que Hay .

15. Take a Tour to the Embera Village

Deep within Panama’s lush interior, the Embera people – known for their deep connection to the rainforest and vibrant cultural traditions – have thrived for centuries. And what better way to see or experience this firsthand than with a tour to their village led by knowledgeable guides?

There’s dozens of tours that go there, but I took the Viator’s Tour at the Chagres Rainforest and Embera Indigenous Village and it was great! Here’s a brief summary of my tour:

It started with a canoe through the Chagres River that led us to a rainforest hike. We hiked about ten minutes before reaching a waterfall where you have the option of taking a dip. 

Then it was back to the canoe for a short ride to the village. We were greeted by the Embera people with traditional music and dance.  While visiting we ate a tilapia feast, learned their traditional dances, and wandered through the village, discovering their artistry in basket weaving, wood carving, and beadwork.

16. Hike up Ancon Hill to get the Perfect View

Panama City has plenty of places promising pretty views (take it from me, they do not disappoint!), and one such gem is Ancon Hill (Cerro Ancon) . The trail, suitable for all ages and abilities, winds through lush rainforest, filled with exotic wildlife like toucans and playful monkeys.

As you ascend the 199-meter (653 foot) hill, the cityscape gradually unfolds, culminating in a panoramic display at the summit. There are three viewing platforms along the way, each with a beautiful sight: the lively cityscape of Panama City, the deep blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and the iconic Panama Canal, an engineering masterpiece.

17. See the Bridge Of The Americas

Standing tall over the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, the Bridge of the Americas is more than just a concrete structure; it’s a symbol of progress and collaboration. Completed in 1962 by the United States, it replaced the ferry system as the primary land link between North and South America, significantly boosting traffic flow. Today, the bridge stands as a proud landmark, its four lanes carrying thousands of vehicles daily, while its graceful suspension design remains a marvel of engineering.

Fun Fact: Originally named the Thatcher Ferry Bridge after the ferry it replaced, the Panamanian government soon rechristened it “Bridge of the Americas,” reflecting its wider significance.

18. Stroll the Amador Causeway

Craving a mix of fresh air, stunning views, and lively energy? The Amador Causeway is an opportunity to bicycle alongside locals, zip around on a scooter, or just chill at a waterfront eatery with tasty Panamanian dishes. History buffs can even explore the remnants of Fort Amador, a former military base once guarding the canal’s entrance.

19. See the Tile Mural of the Panama Canal at Mayda bar

Step into the Sofitel Legend Panama hotel and check out a masterpiece: the hand painted tile mural of the Panama Canal adorning the walls of their Mayda bar.

As you sip your cocktail (which are really good, if I may add), let your gaze travel across the meticulously hand-painted tiles, depicting the canal’s construction journey from dream to reality.

20. Go to Monkey Island

Ready for a one-of-a-kind Panamanian escapade? Head to Isla Gatun, a.k.a. Monkey Island, in the vast Gatun Lake. On a tour you will cruise toward the island and watch out for playful white-faced capuchin monkeys having a swinging good time in the trees – guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. These curious buddies, along with howler monkeys adding their iconic calls, call the island home, giving you a peek into Panama’s wild side. It’s a monkey business you wouldn’t want to miss!

While you can’t set foot on the island itself, a boat tour provides a close-up encounter, allowing you to observe their natural behavior and snap adorable photos.

PS: Some companies allow you to feed the monkeys, but this is not recommended. I took the Panama Canal Boat Safari & Jungle Walk w/ Local Brunch tour, and can not speak highly enough about it. It was with an eco-tour company whose focus is on preserving the wildlife and land. Plus our guide was super knowledgeable! PPS: This was my favorite tour in Panama!

21. Step Inside Cathedral of Santa Maria

In the heart of Panama City’s charming Casco Viejo, there’s a grand dame that steals the show: the Cathedral of Santa Maria (Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Santa María la Antigua).

Completed in 1796, this historic beauty has graced the city for ages, watching its journey through its fiery beginnings to the country’s independence. The cathedral flaunts a stone faced charm under the sun, its two white bell towers standing tall like proud twins on each side.

22. Get a Photo in Front of the Panama sign

Strike a pose and become part of the postcard! Panama City has two vibrant “Panama” signs, each offering a fun backdrop for your picture-perfect memory.

At the Amador Causeway, snap a photo with the colorful sign standing proudly against the Pacific Ocean, capturing both urban energy and natural beauty in one frame. If you prefer a more classic city vibe, head to the Cinta Costera, where it perfectly captures the bustling cityscape from behind.

23. Hike at Parque Metropolitano (Metropolitan Natural Park)

Panama City’s very own green oasis, Parque Metropolitano (Metropolitan Natural Park) , filled with diverse wildlife like colorful birds, playful monkeys, and even sloths hanging lazily from the trees.

Choose from seven different trails, each offering a unique challenge and reward. For breathtaking panoramas, as an example, conquer the Mono Titi Walk trail, reaching the Mirador Cedro lookout point for stunning city and canal views.

24. Catch the Sunset at Panaviera Sky Bar

I can honestly say that this is the best spot in the city to catch the sunset — Panaviera Sky Bar . Perched atop the Ocean Sun Casino at the JW Marriott on the 66th floor, it’s the highest rooftop bar in all of Central America. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails while the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange, pink, and purple.

TIPS for Visiting

• Arrive at least 45 Minutes before sunset for a good spot. We found the place half full when we arrived at 5:45 PM for a 6:30pm sunset, and it didn’t take long for it to be full.
• Set the Uber to take you to JW Marriott, but you don’t need to go inside of the hotel. To the left of the front doors of the JW you will enter the Ocean Casino. Follow the signs to the elevators and take it to the 66th floor where the bar is located.
• FYI: the drinks are actually reasonably priced, but it’s not a place I’d stay for food or much longer than the actual sunset.

25. Buy a Panama Hat

Buying a Panama hat in Panama City is a quintessential souvenir and a chance to own a piece of the country’s cultural heritage. While not actually made in Panama (they originated in Ecuador), these hats have become synonymous with the country thanks to their association with the Panama Canal construction in the early 20th century. 

Here are some of the best places to buy a genuine Panama hat in Panama City:

• Victor’s Panama Hats : This iconic store in Casco Viejo has been selling authentic Panama hats for over 100 years. They offer a wide variety of styles and qualities, with prices starting around $20.
• Mercado Nacional de Artesanías (National Artisan Market) : This bustling market in Panama Viejo has a wide variety of souvenirs, including Panama hats at very affordable prices.

26. Take a Cooking Class

For me, one of the best things about visiting a new country is immersing yourself in the unique flavors of the food. And I love to do that by taking a cooking class. The Panamanian Cooking Class Experience not only takes you on a market tour, but then teaches you how to cook four different traditional dishes. Of course, you get to eat what you make!

27. Learn to Salsa Dance

Step into the dance scene and learn the sensual footwork of salsa, a cultural cornerstone of Panama.

For a truly immersive experience, join a group salsa class in the heart of Casco Viejo, where the atmosphere pulsates with the energy of salsa. The infectious rhythm will have you swaying and stepping in no time, guided by experienced instructors who share their passion for this beloved dance.

28. See San Lorenzo Fort

Step back in time and into the heart of Panamanian history at San Lorenzo Fort , a UNESCO World Heritage Site guarding the entrance to the Chagres River for over 400 years. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Caribbean Sea, this formidable fortress withstood numerous pirate attacks and played a crucial role in protecting Spanish trade routes during the colonial era. 

Explore the well-preserved structures, including the main courtyard, barracks, and gunpowder rooms, each offering a glimpse into the fort’s life and function.

NOTE: you can make your way there on your own or the Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Panama Jungle Tour will take you there, plus the Panama Canal!

29. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary

Ever feel like life’s moving a little too fast? Wish you could hit the “paws” button and just hang around all day? Then a visit to Panama’s Sloth Sanctuary in Gamboa is just what you need. This isn’t just a zoo exhibit though; it’s a rescue and rehabilitation center dedicated to helping injured, orphaned, and confiscated sloths.

As you stroll through the sanctuary, you’ll encounter these fuzzy ambassadors lounging in their leafy enclosures, munching on leaves, and engaging in their signature slow-motion adventures.

30. Go to the Agua Clara Visitor Center

Dive into the inspiring feat of Panamanian engineering at the Agua Clara Visitor Center , the Atlantic gateway to the iconic Panama Canal. Unlike the bustling atmosphere at Miraflores on the Pacific side, Agua Clara sits nestled amidst lush rainforest overlooking the expansive Gatun Lake.

Opened in 2016, the center offers exhibits and displays specifically dedicated to these groundbreaking new locks, allowing you to delve deeper into the engineering marvels hidden beneath the surface.

31. Spend the Day at San Blas Islands

Trade cityscapes for island bliss on a day trip to the San Blas Islands . Escape to a paradise of 365 turquoise-kissed islands, fringed by coconut palms and lapped by crystal-clear waters. Immerse yourself into the vibrant Guna Yala culture, where colorful mola textiles tell ancient stories and friendly smiles welcome you.

Dive into vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, or snorkel alongside gentle giants like manta rays. Savor fresh seafood feasts served up with the warmth of Guna Yala culture. In the San Blas Islands, every day is an escape to paradise, a postcard come to life.

32. Go to the mountains of El Valle

Escape the heat and dive into the refreshing green haven of El Valle de Antón. Towering mountains embrace this charming town nestled within an extinct volcanic crater, offering an invigorating change of pace.

Breathe in crisp mountain air and hike verdant trails, rewarded with panoramic views of the crater floor and lush rainforest. Discover hidden waterfalls like Chorro El Macho, its cascades refreshing your spirit. After a day of exploring, soothe your muscles and melt away stress at Los Pozos Termales , natural hot springs bubbling from the earth’s core.

Whew, that was just a taste of the incredible things you can do in Panama City, Panama. As you tick off the items on your bucket list – from the maritime marvel of Miraflores to the historic sanctuaries like Cathedral Santa Maria – you’ll discover a destination that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity.

Whether you’re sipping rum at Pedro Mandinga, immersing yourself in the artistic tapestry of Hat Street, or catching the sunset at the Panaviera Sky Bar, the city has more treasure than a pirate’s booty! Set sail, explore, and discover why Panama City is more than just a bucket list destination – it’s your own personal Panama Canal, connecting you to something truly unforgettable.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

More things to do in panama.

• Panama City Panama Bucket List: 32 Best Things to Do
• 11 Bucket List Restaurants in Panama City, Panama

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How To Plan An Unforgettable Panama Itinerary

Looking for an incredible Panama itinerary?

I’ve got you covered below.

Every summer, my boyfriend Andy and I plan an epic two-week vacation together. It’s one of the few times annually I’m not traveling solo; and because it’s such a special time, a lot goes into planning the perfect trip.

We’re curious outdoor enthusiasts who love experiential accommodations.

If that sounds like you, then you’ll want to keep reading to steal our favorite Panama vacation spots and travel tips.

Note that this post contains affiliate links to trusted partners I think you’ll love!

Psst! Don’t forget to pin this post for later!

Table of Contents

Panama Travel Video

Prefer to travel Panama through video?

You’re in luck!

We filmed a Panama travel guide to really show you what the experience was like.

Watch the video here:

A big thanks to Andy for helping me shoot the footage, and for editing this video!

Panama Travel Tips

Before I get into actual things to do in Panama, I want to go over some important Panama travel tips.

This way, when you begin diving into our Panama itinerary, you can better understand what your trip will look like.

Additionally, you can grab my free Ultimate Travel Planning Kit — which also includes a downloadable Google Map of this Panama itinerary.

Is Panama Safe?

In short, I felt very, very safe doing the Panama itinerary I share with you below.

That being said, whether at home or on the road, I’m never without a few very important safety essentials.

Vigilant Personal Alarm . Vigilant makes personal safety alarms — or sound grenades — in a variety of models and styles. Press a button to activate an alarm louder than a firetruck, meant to disarm and scare potential attackers. The model linked here even has a backup alarm in case the primary alarm becomes disabled.

Speakeasy Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . Hand-made by my fellow travel blogging friends over at Beers & Beans, these stylish scarves come in designs for all seasons. Bonus: The hidden pockets in the scarf are large enough to fit your passport!

Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments . Nervous about pickpockets? In more touristy areas of Panama City, for example, pickpockets are fairly common. Having pickpocket-proof garments ensures thieves don’t even know you’re carrying cash. I love the underwear, tank top, long johns and short sleeve dress!

Planning A Trip To Panama: Destinations

There are so many options when planning your Panama itinerary.

Below, I provide an overview of some — emphasis on some — of your options based on your travel preferences.

Beach Destinations In Panama.  Bocas del Toro, Pearl Islands, San Blas Islands, Isla Coiba, Santa Catalina, Colon.

Hiking / Outdoor Adventure Destinations In Panama.  Boquete, El Valle de Anton, Cocle Province, Santa Cruz de Cana.

Urban Destinations In Panama. Panama City, David.

Agricultural Destinations In Panama. Boquete, Santa Fe, Cocle Province, Isla Bastimentos, Isla San Cristobal, Colon.

Two Weeks In Panama Itinerary

If you don’t feel like reading this entire article, you can swipe my two weeks in Panama itinerary here in this quick overview.

We arrived into Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, and then took an Uber to get to the Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport to board a domestic one-hour flight to the Bocas del Toro “Isla Colón” International Airport in Bocas Town.

Our Panama itinerary was as follows:

Bocas Town on Isla Colon in Bocas del Toro  ( Airbnb- Stay Bocas ). One night.

Arrived via Air Panama flight from Panama City.

Highlights included Bibi’s on the Beach, Starfish Beach and simply wandering the lively town to peruse the shops, bars and even a brewery called Bocas Brewery.

Isla Bastimentos in Bocas Del Toro ( La Loma Jungle Lodge & Chocolate Farm ). Two nights.

Arrived via pickup in Bocas Town by the La Loma Jungle Lodge boat captain (ride is about 20 minutes).

Highlights included sleeping in a treehouse with no walls in the jungle, hiking to a bat cave, kayaking at sunrise and the creative meals made with mainly ingredients grown on their onsite farm.

Isla San Cristobal in Bocas del Toro ( CocoVivo ). Two nights.

Arrived via skiff boat taxi (about 25 minutes from Bocas Town).

Highlights included onsite hiking trails to waterfalls, snorkeling the healthy coral reefs, night swimming in the bioluminescent Tierra Oscura Lagoon, a dock with a second-storey diving board and hammocks right over the water, and paddle-boarding to the local fried chicken shop nearby (a very Panamanian experience!).

Boquete (Airbnb- Lost Waterfalls Cabin ). Two nights.

Arrived via Hello Panama tourist bus ($30), with the Airbnb host picking us up at the bus stop to take us to the cabin.

Highlights included hiking in Panama  — specifically through high altitude jungle to numerous waterfalls — a farm-to-fork dinner at Colibri Restaurant in Boquete Town and having a secluded cabin in the breathtaking cloud forest where our yard was filled with unique flora and hummingbirds.

Panama City ( The Bahia Grand Hotel ). One night.

Arrived via Air Panama flight from Enrique Malek International Airport in David, which we got to by paying $50 for a taxi from Boquete to David (though note there is also a cheaper bus option that we didn’t feel like navigating with our luggage).

This was just a one-night stopover before our trip to El Valle de Anton (aka “El Valle”), and we spent it by exploring some of the hotel’s amenities. These included swimming in the infinity pool, having an unforgettable chef’s tasting dinner at Tejas Restaurant, gambling in the Ocean Sun Casino and having drinks at their 66-storey Poolbar rooftop. Afterward, we took a bubblebath with wine in our in-room standalone tub. Heaven!

El Valle de Anton (Airbnb- Casa del Alma ). Two nights.

Arrived via 2.5-hour bus from the Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City (~$4.50 one way).

Highlights included hiking to the top of La India Dormida for incredible views, having a seafood dinner on the chill patio of Bruschetta Restaurant, and enjoying our funky zen lodging with had a pool, garden and deep soaking tub.

Panama City ( The Bahia Grand Hotel ). Three nights.

Arrived via the same bus we took to El Valle de Anton, but in the opposite direction.

Highlights included more swimming and enjoying cocktail-filled pineapples at the infinity pool, wandering the UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo neighborhood, seeing boats pass through the Panama Canal, walking the scenic Cinta Costera at night, savoring craft cocktails at the Strangers Club and a satisfying dinner at the innovative Wall Street Bar & Lounge where menu prices change based on their inventory.

If I could change anything about the above Panama itinerary, I would have stayed a few days longer in Panama to spend more time in Panama City. There is a lot to do there, both within the city and as day trips.

Currency In Panama

Interestingly, US Dollars — along with the Panamanian Balboa — are both official currency in Panama.

They even equal the same. Sometimes locals will mix up currencies, too.

So, if you’re supposed to get $1.50 change back, you might back $1 USD and 50 cents in Panamanian Balboa coins.

In short, we used US dollars the entire time.

Getting Around Panama

To get around Panama, Andy and I opted to travel by plane and bus.

There’s so much to do in Panama, and we were on a tight two-week schedule; so, we did take two domestic flights on Air Panama to save time, even though they were pricier than the bus.

Additionally, we opted for the tourist transfer bus offered by Hello Panama between Bocas and Boquete.

Another option we heard a few travelers rave about is renting a car, as long as you’re outside Panama City and Bocas del Toro.

Next time I go to Panama I’ll probably opt for this, as there are so many natural places and beautiful parks to explore that are time-consuming to get to via public transportation.

I recommend using a service  like Discover Cars  to determine the best car rental deals available.

Users of this site can save up to 70% on their booking just by being able to easily compare their options!

What’s great is their comparison tool does the hard research work for you.

You can use their widget right here to compare right now:

Solo Female Travel In Panama

While I was not traveling solo in Panama per my usual trip style, I know many of you are solo travelers.

Ladies, you can definitely feel confident traveling alone through Panama. We encountered a number of solo female travelers during our trip, and at almost all of our accommodations.

Actually, while the Panama itinerary I’m sharing works well for couples, there’s nothing we did on this trip that I wouldn’t come back and do solo, aside for maybe staying at the Lost Waterfalls Cabin because it’s pretty secluded (and I’m terrified of ghosts!).

Even the hikes in Boquete that I mention below — both of which are very well marked — would be fine to do on your own without a guide.

Just make sure you have the Vigilant Alarm I mention above on you for added protection, especially from wildlife.

Health Concerns & Zika Virus In Panama

Note that as of this writing (September 2018) there is a risk of Zika Virus in Panama. This means that if you’re pregnant you should avoid visiting Panama.

All travelers will definitely want to take precautions to limit mosquito bites, as well as bites from no-see-ums (or sand flies), which can also carry diseases.

In Bocas del Toro both of these insects were very prevalent.

Personally, I typically opt for natural insect repellent, as I feel it works better and doesn’t harm the environment.

I was able to buy an incredible insect repellent and bite soother at La Loma Jungle Lodge. It was made from coconut oil, citronella and fresh lemon.

If you’d prefer to buy your insect repellent before your Panama trip, here are a few highly-rated natural options from Amazon:

• 2 ounce repellent (spray)
• 2 ounce repellent (cream)
• 4 ounce repellent
• 8 ounce repellent

Another question in terms of health safety you’re probably asking yourself:

Can you drink the water in Panama?

The answer:

Yes and no.

Do realize in certain Panama regions and cities you can’t drink the tap water, like Bocas del Toro.

On the other hand, drinking the tap water in places like Boquete, El Valle de Anton and Panama City is absolutely fine.

Honestly, I thought the tap water in Panama — especially in mountainous places like Boquete — was some of the best I’ve ever tasted!

And while we’re on the topic of drinking, do remember to ask for your beverages without a straw when ordering at restaurants.

Many restaurants and bars will typically provide straws automatically, which can then get eaten by wildlife and harm or kill them.

My Panama Itinerary In-Depth

Now that we’ve covered some important Panama travel tips, it’s time to dive deeper into where to go in Panama, and what to do once you’re there.

Visiting Bocas Del Toro 

Christopher Columbus actually visited this beautiful archipelago in 1502, when he was searching for Asia. That’s why you’ll find a number of Bocas del Toro islands that give nods to the Spanish explorer — like Isla Colon, Isla Cristóbal and Bahía de Almirante — because he named them after himself.

According to Rough Guides , it wasn’t until 1826 that the town of Bocas del Toro — today called Bocas Town — was founded by West Indian immigrants.

Later on in the 19th century, it was the United Fruit company that built up Bocas del Toro’s wealth by planting banana plantations.

This strategic move led to over 50% of Panama’s export income coming from Bocas bananas.

While disease eventually hurt the banana industry in Bocas del Toro, a growing tourism industry is taking its place as a key money maker.

How To Get To Bocas Del Toro From Panama City

Arriving into Bocas del Toro via Air Panama flight was one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had on a plane.

With the soft hum of the aircraft as my soundtrack, I gazed down over hundreds of lush islands — some large enough to have homes, some so small they appeared like rocks from above.

As the plane descended, I noticed the water hitting the shoreline of the vibrant emerald green islands, sprouting dense forest that appeared like billions of broccoli stalks, the trees so close together.

Suddenly, the plane made a loud whizzing noise, and a burst of colorful buildings broke up the repeating green hues.

We were in Bocas Town.

Now, flights to Bocas del Toro from Panama City are relatively inexpensive on Air Panama. Andy and I paid $112 each for our one-way flight — including taxes and fees — booked for the end of August.

If you’re wondering how to get to Bocas del Toro, the above-mentioned flight to Bocas del Toro airport will be the easiest, quickest way at less than one-hour of travel time.

Another option is taking a bus from Panama City to Almirante, and then a boat to Bocas Town (or another Bocas del Toro island), though note this takes 10.5-11.5 hours total. Considering the flight is about 50 minutes, I personally think it’s the smarter option unless you’re on a really, really tight budget.

Driving is another option, and we met loads of travelers road tripping around Panama.

The thing with this is that once you’re in Bocas del Toro you’ll be getting around by taking tiny skiff boats. These don’t fit cars, so you’ll need to leave yours in Almirante. Driving from Panama City to Bocas del Toro takes about eight to nine hours.

Now Bocas del Toro is interesting in that it sits on Panama’s Caribbean coast and features some truly unspoiled beaches.

Moreover, you can swim in crystal waters, snorkeling lagoons and watching dolphins in the wild. You can float in a bioluminescent bay. You can hike through the jungle spying birdlife, monkeys and sloths, or head into a bat cave and go cliff jumping inside.

These are just a few of the many Bocas del Toro attractions and experiences to be had.

Bocas del Toro islands are plentiful. In fact, aside for the mainland there are nine main Caribbean islands to choose from when planning your trip.

That being said, you’ll notice as your flying over this Panama province that there are actually myriad small islands, calm waters sprinkled with lush emerald tufts of land. While you won’t find Bocas del Toro hotels on these smaller islands, many make for fun kayaking and paddle boarding destinations.

Visiting Bocas Town On Isla Colon [Bocas Del Toro, Panama]

Bocas Town — situated at the southern end of Isla Colon — is the capital and main hub of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, so this is where you’ll likely begin your journey, even if just to connect elsewhere.

That being said, no  Bocas del Toro vacation would be complete without spending a night or two in Bocas Town.  It’s extremely lively, with loads of restaurants, bars, shops, a main square and a walkable layout.

Bocas Town Hotel Recommendation: Stay Bocas

When researching where to stay in Bocas del Toro, specifically in Bocas Town, we chose Stay Bocas due to its positive reviews.

Plus, it’s literally a three-minute walk from the Bocas del Toro “Isla Colón” International Airport. This is where you’ll arrive into when flying into Bocas del Toro from Panama City.

As soon as we walked through the garden patio up to the check-in desk, a smiling man greeted us and offered us local Balboa beers.

The room was clean with air conditioning, and the location was walkable to all of the noteworthy things to do in Bocas Town.

It’s also budget-friendly at less than $50 per night, including breakfast, wifi and bike rentals.

We booked this Bocas Town accommodation on Airbnb. If you’ve never used Airbnb before, I recommending clicking here to set up your account so you get $40 off your first booking .

Once you’ve created your account, you can click here to book Stay Bocas.

Bocas Del Toro Restaurants: Bibi’s On The Beach

Bocas Town is the epitome of a chill beach town. Even as we walked around on a Monday night, small wooden bars and restaurants painted in bright tropical colors blasted calypso and reggae.

Near to a small brewery strung with fairy lights was a dock where locals eagerly wait to take people by taxi boat to other islands and destinations nearby.

Our destination for the night:

Bibi’s on the Beach , a restaurant recommendation from Stay Bocas.

Located on nearby Carenero Island, Andy and I were dropped off on the dock — after paying the $2/person fare — and took a short walk along the palm shaded, sandy shore to the open-air eatery.

Fresh seafood paired with fruity cocktails made fresh in a blender is the name of the game here.

On the water, we sipped Pina Coladas and Bahama Mamas while enjoying grilled tuna, mussels, shrimp and Bibi’s famous tender octopus.

The scene is uber romantic, with bare bulbed lights strung up over picnic tables and lounge chairs right on the water.

I highly recommend going before sunset so you can watch the sky light up and cast warm hues over the islands.

Bocas Del Toro Beaches: Starfish Beach

Possibly my favorite Bocas del Toro beach from the whole trip was Starfish Beach near Bocas Town.

On the main road in Bocas Town — the widest road, two blocks from Stay Bocas — is a park square.

Here, you’ll catch the bus to Bocas del Drago ($2.50 each way, payable on the bus in cash), the last stop on the bus.

The ride takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll drive through lush jungle and even some cow-laden countryside.

When you arrive at Bocas del Drago, you’ll be greeted by soft sand coastline shaded by palms, azure warm waters and chill beach bars selling rum drinks and lobster.

The real treat though:

Hiking 25 minutes along the coastline —walking barefoot through the warm water — to the gorgeous Starfish Beach.

Not only is the beach stunning, with hawks gliding overhead, but the clear water is filled with giant colorful starfish!

A note on responsible tourism at beaches:

Don’t touch the starfish!

There are signs everywhere warning visitors not to touch them, and that if you do they might die; but yet, we saw tourists not only touching them but moving them to take a “great” Instagram photo.

A photo is never worth hurting a living creature over, so just admire them with your eyes!

A warning on the buses:

They apparently come earlier than they tell you when you get off. The 2pm bus back to Bocas left at 1:55pm! Luckily we got back early.

Back in Bocas Town, we took a stroll through the lively, colorful streets, spending most of our time shopping at the artsy  Black Cat boutique.

Afterward, we headed to a really cool bar and restaurant —  Bocas Blended , aka the Batido Bus — to eat lunch.

This hippie bus serves smoothies, healthy wraps, salads and refreshing mojito lemonades.

It was the perfect place to relax while we waited to meet our captain — Mr. Kelly — who’d be whisking us away to our next Bocas del Toro island destination.

Visiting La Loma Jungle Lodge On Isla Bastimentos [Bocas Del Toro, Panama]

When Mr. Kelly arrived, we boarded a small skiff boat to visit La Loma Jungle Lodge & Chocolate Farm on Bastimentos Island.

The scenic ride took about 20 minutes — taking us past inlet eateries, small islands and mangroves — until we pulled up to dock dense with forest; a small dog, who we came to know as Zorro, greeting us.

Resting on 57 acres of tropical forest and fruit groves, La Loma Jungle Lodge is unlike any of the other Bocas del Toro hotels you’ll come across on your search.

First of all, the property is a self-sustaining experiential accommodation only accessible by boat, meaning you don’t need to worry about having a negative impact on the environment or about encountering too many tourists.

As a guest of the hotel — which is also a working farm — your stay includes three deliciously prepared meals.

About 60% of the ingredients in the food are grown right on their property. During my stay, I savored dishes like pumpkin soup with fried yuca, grilled blackjack fish over coconut rice, and roasted red pepper-laced lentils served alongside fresh salad from the garden and locally-sourced cheese.

For dessert, sometimes we savored homemade guava cookies showcasing onsite grown fruit, or decadent chocolate cake gowned in dulce de leche, made with La Loma’s renowned cacao.

Hey, Panama chocolate is some of the best in the world. And if you want to have the best of the best, it’s smart to get it right from the source.

You can work off the food through onsite hiking trails, night walks to spot caimans and jungle insects, trips to trek across Red Frog Beach and kayaking to the nearby bat cave or Sloth Island (which is home to — you guessed it — hundreds of sloths!).

While mornings were filled with watching wildlife — mainly birds and sometimes sloths and monkeys — through our open air treehouse, evenings were spent playing cards under the stars while enjoying a bottle of wine and listening to tree frogs.

Moreover, staff were happy to set up their kayaks for sunrise paddling with views looking out toward the active Volcán Barú — Panama’s tallest mountain at 11,400 feet — and the rest of the Cordillera de Talamanca range.

Adventures On Isla Bastimentos: Beach Hiking

No trip to Panama would be complete without visiting the beautiful beaches.

And one of my favorite experiences during my La Loma stay was to Red Frog Beach , specifically to do the 45-minute hike from that beach to the more secluded Polo Beach .

Admittedly, Polo Beach is a proper hike to get to.

While your feet will be slapping over the warm Caribbean Sea most of the time, you’ll also need to navigate jagged tufts of coral and humongous fall trees blocking the path.

Once you arrive, though, you’ll realize the effort was worth it as you have the crystal waters and outer island views all to yourself.

There aren’t beach bars at Polo Beach, so pack lots of water and lunch!

Adventures On Isla Bastimentos: Panama Bat Cave Exploration

Another one of the unforgettable things to do in Panama while staying at La Loma:

Hiking through the  Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park to the  Nivida Bat Cave with a local named Roger, whose father actually discovered the cave.

I always joke that when I’m working hard I’m in my bat cave; but the truth is I’ve never been in a bat cave like this.

Hundreds — possibly thousands — of bats hung upside down, grinning devilishly through the glow of our headlamps in the darkest corners of the cave.

Every few seconds, one would whizz past our ears so quickly they looked like a burst of black light; so close you could almost feel it’s little hairs on your skin!

I was glad I wore a bathing suit, as the further we hiked into the cave, the deeper the water inside became.

Actually, what started out as a stream quickly came to above our waists!

When we got to a large dry rock shelf the water didn’t reach, Roger instructed us to leave everything behind aside for our helmets and headlamps.

“The water gets very deep. You’ll need to swim at parts.”

Peering at a giant tarantula-like spider on the wall, I hoped the creepy crawlers of the cave wouldn’t also be making the journey.

After about 15 minutes, we came to a giant cave pool sitting below loads of stalagmites — where you could also cliff jump.

Andy jumped three times, and each time I held my breath hoping I wouldn’t need to tell his parents I’d lost their son in a Panamanian bat cave.

Luckily, he came up laughing each time.

The bat cave excursion also included a scenic boat ride through the mangroves. Roger not only gave us a comprehensive overview of the three types of mangroves on Bastimentos Island — red, brown and yellow — but also helped us spot an array of wildlife.

Crabs, capuchin monkeys, caimans and giant clawed pistol shrimp all made their way onto my camera roll, though the highlight was a sloth so close we could make out her facial features.

I learned sloths go to the bathroom once per week in the water, where the caimans sit hungrily waiting.

As this sloth moved about the tree, I hoped she realized what waited below her.

Luckily, what waited for Andy and I was much less scary:

A delicious multi-course lunch at La Loma, complete with plates of guanabana fruit and chocolate truffles for dessert.

Visiting CocoVivo On Isla San Cristobal [Bocas del Toro, Panama]

After washing down our meal with homemade passionfruit juice, Andy and I said our farewells, faithful Zorro giving us his final doggy kisses on the dock, before we headed back to Bocas Town to catch a taxi boat to CocoVivo Panama , a sustainable eco-retreat on Isla San Cristobal.

A friendly Bocas local named Choy was our captain, recommended to us by CocoVivo.

The scenic 20-minute ride cost $45 total for both Andy and I, and as our boat pulled up to the CocoVivo dock, surrounded by lush jungle, we knew we were in for a relaxing treat.

This portion of our trip was about simply enjoying the beauty and chilled out vibe of the property.

Actually, my laptop had sadly fallen prey to humidity on Isla Bastimentos. While I was more than a little sad about the screen of my $1500 laptop being destroyed, I decided to look at it as a blessing:

No laptop meant I had no choice but to take a deep breath and relax.

And CocoVivo certainly was the place to it.

Owned by expat couple Carmen and Lazare — who met while living in Bocas Town — the property is rustic and environmentally conscious using solar panels, a rain catchment system and composting.

You’ll need to be mindful of water usage, electricity usage and waste.

Moreover, our in-room toilet — for #1 only — was a hole right over the mangroves, and short cool showers handled only bio-digradeable products like this shampoo (though they provide soap, and have a beautiful Hill House with western facilities, too).

If you’re okay with that, then you’ll be rewarded with simple clean rooms built right into the island’s landscape.

Things To Do On Isla San Cristobal: Aquatic Bocas Del Toro Adventures

Actually, swimming in their bioluminescent Tierra Oscura Lagoon when the sky is completely dark is a magical experience; each slap of your hand on the water making bright sparkles shoot out from your fingertips.

Swimming during the day is also a must, as the property is surrounded by healthy reefs full of tropical fish and colorful corals.

A must-have CocoVivo experience:

Jumping off the second-storey diving board that’s on their main deck lounge, where fresh communal meals are served and the bar sits.

Here, you’ll find hammocks and wooden swings hanging right over the water, with a second-storey diving platform.

It’s scary the first time you jump, though after you come up for air giggling, you’ll want to do it again and again.

Things To Do On Isla San Cristobal: Bocas Del Toro Restaurants

Additionally, we loved grabbing the free-to-use kayaks and paddle boards and paddling across the lagoon to Los Amigos Restaurante & Bar .

Here, in this eatery on the water that genuinely feels like someone’s home, they serve one thing:

Three pieces of delicious fried chicken with fries and coleslaw.

It’s a true Panamanian experience, from getting to practice your Spanish to chatting with the owner — Ernesto — about his time living in the states, but coming back to where he was born and opening the business.

Behind the counter sits a shelf with a few bottles of liquor and a handful of mixers, which we turned into ginger ales spiked with local rum.

Around the open air restaurant, locals play music and sit on their porches, offering a glimpse into daily life in Panama.

Things To Do On Isla San Cristobal: Hiking On Isla San Cristobal

Additionally, the onsite hiking trails at CocoVivo allow you to see birds, wildlife (read: sloths!), waterfalls and crazy insects.

Led by CocoVivo’s three pups — Captain, Osa and Nanoosh — we ended up at a lovely waterfall.

This was a refreshing stop to cool off as Bocas del Toro weather can be very hot and humid.

After my laid back stay, I truly felt like I was leaving home, especially when Carmen, Lazare and the dogs stood at the dock waving (and barking!) goodbye.

Click here for a great list of unforgettable Bocas del Toro tours!

Visiting Boquete In Panama

So, where were we leaving Bocas del Toro for?

Boquete, a small mountain town located in the highlands of the bountiful Chiriquí province of Panama, renowned for its hiking trails and proximity to Volcán Barú , Panama’s highest point.

This is one of the best Panama vacation spots for those wanting to experience the country’s gorgeous cloud forest.

According to  Hotel Panamonte , Boquete was founded on April 11, 1911, when it became a shortcut to California for those looking to profit from the California Gold Rush.

Many locals and immigrants settled here, also drawn by the Panama destination’s abundance and natural beauty.

Today, the town is known for a few things:

• Boquete coffee production. The coffee in Boquete is said to be some of the world’s best!
• It’s retirement community. Many senior locals and expats settle in Boquete to take advantage of the mild weather, low costs, modern amenities and slower pace of life.
• Boquete tourism. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Boquete should be on your Panama itinerary!

Hotels In Boquete, Panama: The Lost Waterfalls Cabin

Andy and I booked the Lost Waterfalls Cabin on Airbnb, so if you’ve never used Airbnb before make sure to use this link to signup and get $40 off your first stay !

If you’re interested in hiking in Panama, the cabin is situated at the beginning of the renowned Lost Waterfalls Trail, high up in the cloud forest.

So high in fact that you’ll need to hike 20 minutes up a steep trail to reach the dwelling — meaning you’ll definitely need to be physically fit, and be okay with walking across shaking suspension bridges — to stay here.

Once you reach your cozy wooden cabin, you’re surrounded by hummingbirds, blue vervain, red spiky heliconias, tall moss-covered oaks and other high elevation flora.

Or, as I like to call them, Dr. Seuss-looking plants.

Plus, you won’t need to look up to see clouds; they’ll roll right past you like puffy tumbleweeds as you sit on the large porch — complete with rocking chairs and resident pup named Rocky Balboa.

Even the outdoor toilet and shower — both very clean — have views of the valley.

We loved our stay at this Boquete accommodation, especially because we spent almost our entire time hiking.

If you want to explore the actual main town in Boquete — with its many restaurants, bars and shops — you should stay at a hostel or hotel down there. For example:

• A popular choice is Hostel Mamallena , which has budget-friendly dorms and private rooms.
• Another great option if you’re not a hostel person is Agaseke Lodge Boquete , a simple and inexpensive Panama hotel right in Boquete Town that includes breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a clean room.

Another idea:

Do a few days in Boquete Town and a few days in the Panamanian cloud forest at the Lost Waterfalls Cabin.

You can always get to town via 15-minute hike down to the trailhead and then get a $10 cab, which the Airbnb host can call for you since you won’t have cell service.

If it’s the evening, make sure to bring a flashlight to see and your Vigilant Personal Alarm for safety, as it gets dark.

Most likely, you’ll eat most meals at the cabin, where you have a cooler (no fridge), outdoor grill, stove (no oven), sink and dishes / glassware.

Things To Do In Boquete, Chiriquí: Boquete Restaurants

One meal I do highly recommend you have in town:

A globally inspired farm-to-fork experience at Colibri Restaurante .

“Colibri” means “hummingbird” in Spanish, which is a great name for this restaurant focused on creative Mediterranean meals infused with mainly local ingredients.

They have outdoor seating, as well as indoor tables surrounded by walls covered in local artwork.

The menu is extensive with lots of noteworthy tastes, from the locally-made passionfruit limoncello to the home-brewed beer to the creative ice cream flavors.

Personally, I loved the tree tomato option, as well as the goat cheese made with a variety they find at a local farmer’s market.

Instead of bread, we were given a bowl of fried pasta with a pesto dipping sauce.

As a starter, the beef tenderloin salad was almost too pretty to eat, laced with carrot spirals, faddish slices and tender seasoned beef; all dressed in a passionfruit dressing.

The meal offered a delicious introduction to discovering the terroir of Boquete and the Chiriqui Province, as the reason many travelers visit is access to unique outdoor adventure opportunities.

Things To Do In Boquete, Chiriquí: Boquete Hiking Trails

Andy and I decided to continue exploring the landscape through two esteemed hiking trails:

The Pipeline Trail ($3 entrance fee) and the Lost Waterfalls Trails ($7 entrance fee), the latter of which our cabin sits at the trailhead of.

Both are moderately difficult, unbelievably scenic hikes that introduce you to lush jungle and renowned bird life. Moreover, they’re a short taxi or collectivo (shared taxi) ride from Boquete Town.

Additionally, both are well-traversed enough that I’d highly recommend them for solo female travelers — though do pack your personal alarm just in case. We didn’t see any, but there are jaguars here, and a sound grenade can help scare off wild animals.

The Pipeline Trail is 2.8-miles long, gradually bringing you to 1,578 meters above sea level. Despite the elevation gain, this is the easier of the two Boquete hikes. This is because the Lost Waterfalls Trail is very, very steep in sections.

During the hike, you’ll pass through two micro-climates of the cloud forest, seeing a wide variety of flora — and fauna, mainly birds.

Actually, along this trail sits a designated Quetzal habitat.

If you’re wondering where to see the sought-after Resplendent quetzal in Panama, this is where you need to go — though note having a local Boquete guide like this one will dramatically increase your chances of spotting one. These beautiful birds, despite their bright colors and dramatic feathering, are tough to spot on your own.

Another Pipeline Trail highlight:

A 1,000+ year-old Mexican elm tree, with enormous roots twisting out of the ground.

This is a fun photo spot for sure!

Along the way, you’ll cross lovely bridges — many crafted from parts of the pipeline the trek is named for — and will likely see lizards, butterflies and possibly even snakes, sloths and howler monkeys. We didn’t see the latter, but we definitely heard them!

At the end of the hike, you’re rewarded with a front row view of a waterfall perfect for swimming.

As Andy and I visited in the late August rainy season — Panama’s off season — we had the place all to ourselves.

The Lost Waterfalls Trail in Boquete was, in my opinion, even more beautiful, albeit more challenging with hugely spaced staircases and steep climbs — sometimes so sharp you’ll need a rope to assist you.

That being said, you’re introduced to three wildly gorgeous waterfalls, each quite different from the other.

Here is Lost Waterfall #1, the tamest of them all, with a viewing platform to see the falls:

Here is Lost Waterfall #2, my favorite of the three due to the multiple tiers and the cave behind it:

And here is Lost Waterfall #3, which you can also climb up and walk behind:

As a photographer on this Panama hike, I couldn’t help but notice the many opportunities for gorgeous natural framing.

Bring a raincoat! That rain can come out of nowhere. I’m a fan of the compact LINENLUX Rain Poncho .

Boquete gets much cooler than Panama City and Bocas del Toro, so bring some warm clothing. My travel-friendly scarf shawl  — which also makes for an excellent airplane blanket — came in handy for keeping me warm when hanging out on the porch.

Click here for a great list of unforgettable Boquete tours !

Visiting El Valle De Anton In Panama (aka El Valle)

After our cloud forest adventure in Boquete, we bid farewell to our Airbnb host, Elias, and the adorable Rocky Balboa.

While there is an inexpensive bus from Boquete to David — where you can board another inexpensive bus from David to Panama City — we decided to save time and hassle and instead grabbed a taxi to David’s international airport (1 hour, $50).

Then we took a flight from David to Panama City, where we grabbed a 2.5-hour bus to El Valle de Anton. Or, as it’s more commonly called, El Valle.

The town of El Valle — which I was told sits inside the largest inhabited volcano crater in the world — is known for its hiking trails, natural beauty and unique geography. Here, you’ll enjoy mountain treks, waterfalls, butterfly and orchid gardens, and hot springs.

Taking The Bus To El Valle From Panama City

So from Albrook Bus Station in Panama City there are ticket sellers coming up to you and anxiously asking you where you’re going.

“El Valle de Anton,” I said.

“Come!” A man said, beckoning me to follow.

He hurriedly brought me to a ticket selling table, and I again said “El Valle de Anton.”

A bunch of men were shouting around me, it was hectic and rushed, so when the guy repeated back “Anton?” I didn’t think that that might be a different place.

But alas, it was.

And our 2.5-hour bus ride took almost six hours as we arrived in Anton — different from El Valle de Anton — and had to backtrack to then take two different buses.

But hey, it was an experience.

Picture a small bus where people get on and off before the vehicle even really comes to a complete stop. Latin club beats blast, and on some buses there are even R-rated music videos to go along with them!

El Valle Panama Hotels: Casa del Alma (aka House of Soul)

We booked the funky, zen Casa del Alma space on Airbnb — so if you’ve never used Airbnb before, click here to create your account and receive $40 off your first stay!

This large house with four thoughtfully-decorated guest rooms, each with a private bathroom, is chock full of inspiring nooks, female-centric artwork and playful touches.

Moreover, the outdoor garden features a pool, fireplace (upcharge for setup) and tropical flora attracting birds — including hummingbirds!

In the morning, a big kitchen stocked with coffee, eggs, cereal and bananas is included in your stay.

Hiking In El Valle: La India Dormida Trail

While we had a nice seafood meal at Restaurante Bruschetta and tasty fried chicken from a place off the main drag that read “Bar Restaurante,” the reason to visit El Valle isn’t the food.

It’s the nature.

Specifically, it’s to hike La India Dormida , or “The Sleeping Indian.”

From afar, this mountain range looks like a sleeping indigenous woman, quite a sight to see from afar.

And from the top, the views are even more spectacular.

According to Journey Era , there is a legend surrounding the mountain.

Apparently, an indigenous woman named Luba — a local chief’s daughter — fell in love with a Spaniard, despite incessant fighting between them and her tribe.

There was an indigenous man in her tribe who did love her, but she didn’t feel the same. Deeply hurt, he threw himself off a mountain in front of Luba.

Luba then became hysterical and got lost in the bushes, perishing.

Back to the La India Dormida hike itself, Andy and I were told there are four routes by which you can get to the top. Three are free and one is paid.

We weren’t sure where the free ones were, so we went in the paid entrance near the Piedra Pintada. You’ll see tons of signs in El Valle Town pointing you to La India Dormida as well as to the Piedra Pintada trailhead.

Honestly, I was happy to pay $3 for such a beautiful, well-maintained trail.

After paying, you’re shown a 3D diagram of the natural Panama attractions that await; neat, but nothing compared to seeing them up close.

At  times the 45-minute uphill hike is pretty steep, and you’ll need to traverse uneven rock steps and roots.

That being said, you’ll be distracted from any fatigue thanks to the fact that there’s barely any lag time between sites.

Almost immediately, you see the famed Piedra Pintada , an enormous rock covered in petroglyphs said to date back to Pre-Columbian times; as in, before 1492 when Christopher Columbus “discovered” the Americas.

After that, you’ll cross wooden bridges and veer off the path out onto small outcroppings to view three different waterfalls, each cascade offering something different.

Here is a look at my favorite waterfall from the La India Dormida hike, with beautiful views out toward the Pacific Ocean.

Along the path we saw so many giant Blue Morpho Butterflies, along with yellow-bellied flycatcher birds.

Toward the top, we saw one more petroglyph rock before shortly arriving at a crossroads.

We almost missed it, but in very faint white there is an arrow directing you toward the left.

This takes you higher up the mountain, until you come to a tent with decent views over the valley.

As usual, I thought this was the end before it really was. Like in Boquete, Andy volunteered to run ahead and scope things out.

We were lucky he did, as despite having to climb up a very steep and uneven rock face, we were ecstatic to come up onto the edge of the volcano crater.

The views here are completely open, with rolling hills on one side and the valley drop on the other as you walk along the crater rim.

There are a lot of great photo opportunities here; though do be smart, as the drop down is really long.

Visiting Panama City

After 10 days of Panama beach and jungle exploration, we ended our trip with three nights in Panama City.

Panama City is definitely the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan city I’ve ever been when traveling Central America , with a lot of money coming in thanks to the Panama Canal.

Along with exploring innovative infrastructure, cosmopolitan architecture and cultural institutions like the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo and the Martin Theatre, you can also enjoy Panama beaches, hiking and wildlife in and around the city.

Getting Into Panama City From Tocumen International Airport

When you arrive into Tocumen International Airport, you’ve got a few options for transportation into the city — or to the nearby Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport for domestic flights.

• The bus. The cheapest option at less than $2, though note you can’t bring suitcases.
• Taxis. These you can grab right in the Arrivals Hall. The tourism information booth advised us it would be $35 from Tocumen International Airport to Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport.
• Uber. The best option if you’ve got luggage. We paid about $17 for the 14-mile ride to Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport.  If you’ve never used Uber, you can use code jessief7 to get your first ride free!

Where To Stay In Panama City: Bahia Grand Panama City

While trekking up hills to reach gorgeous jungle view rooms and hiking up steep stone paths for a secluded cloud forest retreat was so worth it, we decided to end with some luxury — and an elevator — by staying at the Bahia Grand Panama City   (formerly the Trump International Hotel & Tower Panama, though it’s now been taken over by JW Marriott).

This Panama City hotel is located in the opulent Punta Pacifica neighborhood, where you’ll see a number of luxury high rise hotels and condominium buildings.

Essentially, the Bahia Grand is a city within a city, with a shopping corridor, four restaurants, five oceanfront pools, a business center and a wellness center.

While mornings were spent enjoying fresh fruit and eggs at the BARcelona buffet breakfast and taking a dip (with a view!) in the 13th floor infinity pool, evenings were enjoyed taking baths in the standalone tub, drinking wine on our 31st-floor balcony and savoring the chefs menu at Tejas .

Their seafood — specifically their ceviche — is incredible!

Attached to the hotel is also the Ocean Sun Casino , from which you can take the elevator up to the 66th floor rooftop bar called Panaviera   Pool Bar .

I don’t think I’ve even been to a bar that high back home in NYC!

Now I have to be honest:

I was much less active in Panama City than I usually am while traveling.

Andy and I packed so much into our Panama itinerary that by the time we reached Panama City we really wanted to chill out.

So, a nice chunk of our time was spent sipping pina coladas out of pineapples by the pool.

#SometimesYouJustGotta

But, that’s not all we did…

Things To Do In Panama City

As stated above, if I could have changed one thing about our Panama itinerary, it would have been staying a few extra days to really get to know Panama City.

A few things we’ve added to our bucket list for the future since we didn’t have time on this Panama trip:

• Visiting Monkey Island where there are a lot of — you guessed it — monkeys.
• Whitewater rafting on the Mamoni River , which offers Class III-IV rapids.
• Taking a food tour of Casco Viejo , Panama City’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed quarter dating back to the 1670s. We certainly explored it, but it would have been a lot of fun to do an actual food tour with a local guide.
• Trekking to the top of Ancon Hill , which is about 1.2 miles each way and offers gorgeous views from the top.
• Spending a few nights in the San Blas Islands , an autonomous territory in Panama touted as possibly the country’s most pristine archipelago. There are over 365 islands, with the native Kuna people inhabiting a few of the larger ones where tourists also visit.
• Hiking the Pipeline Road from Panama City , which introduces you to Panama wildlife like numerous bird species and monkeys.
• Doing an all-inclusive catamaran booze cruise to the renowned Pearl Islands . Out of all the Panama City excursions we saw, this is the one we were most bummed to miss out on. Unfortunately, the catamaran goes out on very specific days which didn’t align with our Panama vacation plans.

Okay, enough about what we didn’t do in Panama City. Let’s talk about what we did do.

One must-have experience is wandering Casco Viejo .

As mentioned above, this Panama City neighborhood dates back to the late 17th century, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You really don’t need a plan here. You can simply walk and admire the historic Spanish colonial facades, which are protected.

In fact, many modern restaurants and bars gut the insides, but are not allowed to change the outsides. This gives Casco Viejo an enchanting old world feel.

Some of our favorite stops within Casco Viejo:

• Café Unido . Attention Instagrammers: This Panama City cafe was made for you. Along with being lovely looking, this is also one of the few places you can try the soft, tea-like Geisha Coffee. It costs a steep $9 per cup, but offered a gentle pick me up!

• CasaCasco . In this multi-level Panama City restaurant you’ve got three eateries to choose from, not to mention a rooftop bar serving tapas and a dance club. We opted for the Asian-focused NacionSushi. Warning: Their rolls are much, much, much bigger than you’re likely used to!

• The Strangers Club . This American-style craft cocktail bar was started by the team behind NYC’s famed Employees Only, along with two Panamanian partners. As many of you know, I lead a cocktail tour in Manhattan, so of course I had to try it. The ambiance is relaxed, with the menu showcasing Panama’s best ingredients. Pro tip: Order the “Angie,” featuring gin shaken with fresh passionfruit, house-made lemongrass syrup and frothy egg white. Yum!

Of course, you’ll also want to admire the views of the Panama City skyline and Panama Bay, as the neighborhood juts into the water.

Additionally, Casco Viejo is full of historic and cultural attractions, like  Palacio de las Garzas (where Panama’s president lives), the 18th century  Catedral de Panamá and the 17th century  La Iglesia San Felipe Neri .

Another experience you can’t miss when you visit Panama City:

Spending time at the Panama Canal !

While I appreciate engineering, I’ll be honest that this isn’t usually how I’d want to spend my time; however, Andy and I agreed that it would be wrong to miss it.

I’m glad we went, as we were able to get up close to the action.

Even if the idea of learning about boats and canals bores you, just seeing how the system works is interesting.

Something else fascinating:

The idea for the canal actually came from France; however, they eventually pulled out, which is when the project became a joint venture between the USA and Panama.

This short two-minute video by The BBC does a great job of explaining this further.

So, how long is the Panama Canal?

A whopping 48 miles, with ships generally taking eight to 10 hours to pass through. Astounding!

After visiting the Panama Canal, Andy and I spent some time roaming Panama City’s lesser-explored areas.

We really enjoyed the walkable  El Cangrejo, Obarrio and Marbella neighborhoods. 

Once we’d sufficiently worked up an appetite, we stopped at one of the most unique Panama City restaurants we’d seen yet:

Wall Street Bar & Lounge in Marbella.

Their concept is innovative in that the menu prices change based on what’s in stock.

The idea is that diners might be tempted to try something they normally wouldn’t order based on a great price.

Plus, the food and cocktails are just really good. Our drinks were works of art, adorned with flowers and burnt fruit slices.

In terms of dining it’s mainly hearty comfort food. We especially loved the burger topped with a creamy house sauce and served with spiced fries.

Definitely don’t come here on a diet!

To end the night — and the trip — Andy and I took an evening stroll along Panama City’s  Cinta Costera .

The coastal beltway begins and ends on the mainland, though a large portion of it weaves away from the city into the water, like one of Saturn’s rings.

Despite it being after 8pm, many locals were out running, skating and riding their bikes.

As we walked, Andy and I were able to take in an impressive view of Panama City, really grasping how humongous the cosmopolitan city really is.

Click here for a great list of unforgettable Panama City tours!

While Andy and I packed a lot into our two-week trip to Panama, we’re both looking forward to going back and exploring even more of what this beautiful country has to offer.

Because trust me, it’s a lot!

Travel Insurance

While you hope everything runs smoothly, sometimes travel just doesn’t go according to plan.

This is why I recommend always purchasing travel insurance. The scary truth is it only takes one bad accident to lose everything — or be thankful you were covered.

Personally, I use SafetyWing, as they’ve got a large network, offer both short-term and long-term coverage (including limited coverage in your home country), are budget-friendly, and offer $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What would you add to this Panama itinerary? Any questions on backpacking Central America? Please share in the comments below!

Panama Itinerary Logistics: Electronics Warning: MacBook Pro problems! Make sure to keep your electronics, namely your laptops, in a sealed bag, as high humidity in places like Bocas del Toro can ruin them. Additionally, you can purchase a dry bag for when your gadgets are not in use, like this one . Panama Transfers: Hello Panama is a top-rated company in Panama who do many of the popular transfers. We used them to go from Bocas Town to Boquete for $30. Car Rentals: Discover Cars  lets you compare various rental companies and save up to 70% on your booking!  Bocas Taxi Boat Recommendation: If you need a boat ride between Bocas Town and another Bocas island, contact Choy at +507 6711 8878. Taxi Service In Boquete Recommendation: William. Very nice guy recommended to us by our Airbnb host! His cell is +507 6784 0277. Recommended Reads:  Panama Fever: The Epic Story of the Building of the Panama Canal Panama: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture Panama Birds: A Folding Pocket Guide to Familiar Species Hands of the Rain Forest: The Emberá People of Panama Packing List:  A few must-pack items when visiting Panama include: A Vigilant personal safety alarm or safety whistle Clever Travel Companion pickpocket-proof garments Speakeasy Supply Co hidden-pocket scarves A compact raincoat A waterproof backpack All-natural insect repellent  Panama Tours: Bocas del Toro Tours Boquete Tours Panama City Tours All Panama Tours

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Thank you, Jessie, for sharing everything in so much details. You’ve made planning a trip to Panama very easy for me. Would love to go for hiking trails. Keep sharing your trips with us!

The natural beauty of Panama looks out of this world! And omg those little hummingbirds! So cute. Panama is officially on my list now. Thanks for such a comprehensive guide Jessie.

That’s a very informative post! You have covered so much and it seems like you had a perfect trip! Whenever I read such posts, my attention diverts to the food bit hehe (which looks amazing in your post btw) but my favourite here is the hands down, the Jungle Lodge, looks like a slice of heaven!

This is such a fantastic & comprehensive guide! It looks gorgeous! Panama is one of my husband’s top destination choices, so I’ll definitely be pinning for when we finally make it out there!

Really appreciate this wonderful post that you have provided for us. Great to share this information thanks.

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Canada Family Travel Blog

10 Things to do in Panama City, Panama for first time visitors

10/18/2023 By Traveling Canucks 3 Comments Categories: Central America National Park Panama Panama City Top Lists Travel Stories Trip Ideas Tropical Islands

Things to do Panama City, Panama

Panama City is one of the most cosmopolitan capitals in Central America. There are plenty of fun and interesting things to do in Panama City, so we encourage you to spend a few days here. It’s much more than a travel hub for the region. 

In this quick Panama City travel guide, we highlight the top attractions we visited during our two week trip to Panama . We also share a few Panama City travel tips, and lessons learned, from our experience.

Let’s start planning your Panama City itinerary!

Read more posts from our trip to Panama:

• How to get to San Blas Islands from Panama City
• Photos from Hotel Mar y Oro and Contadora Island
• What you need to know before taking the Contadora Island Ferry
• Photos from our visit to Monkey Island Panama

Top Things to do in Panama City, Panama

Table of Contents

1. Wander the old streets of Casco Viejo 

We believe every first time visitor to Panama City should visit Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo or San Felipe. This is Panama City’s historic old quarter. It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is arguably the most popular tourist attraction in Panama City.

This trendy neighbourhood has a mix of old Spanish colonial and neoclassical architecture. It’s an interesting place, with many layers. Some buildings are completely restored to former glory, while others are left to crumble and fall apart. This is where you will find trendy restaurants and bars, boutique hotels, artsy shops and hipster cafes. 

Casco Viejo is a relatively safe part of  Panama City , where tourists are able to wander aimlessly. That said, like most big cities in Central America, you should still remain vigilant from pickpockets and scammers. 

You can either book an organized sightseeing tour of Casco Viejo or simply show up and let the cobblestone streets guide you. 

Related post – 50 Photos of Casco Viejo, Panama City’s Historic Old Town

Panama Metropolitan Cathedral

Also known as the Metropolitan Archcathedral Basilica of Santa María la Antigua, this beautiful church is located in the heart of Casco Viejo at Plaza de la Independencia. Try to spend a few moments inside the cathedral to see its beautiful alter and artwork. 

Casco Viejo is also a great place to view the Panama City skyline.

Paseo Las Bovedas Shopping

Located in Casco Viejo, this is the place to visit if you’re looking for small souvenirs and local crafts. You will find indigenous Guna Yala artwork and fabrics, woven baskets, carved wooden masks, handmade jewelry and inexpensive souvenirs to bring home. 

2. Watch ships pass through the Panama Canal 

Another must-see Panama City attraction is visiting the world famous Panama Canal. It’s said to be one of the largest, and most difficult, engineering projects ever completed. It’s considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World , a claim that is hard to dispute after you learn about its remarkable engineering accomplishments.

The Panama Canal is an artificial waterway that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic Ocean. The canal has a lock system that raise and lower ships to Gatun Lake, a large freshwater artificial lake that sits 85 feet above sea level.

The best place to watch ships pass through the Panama Canal is at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center in Panama City, picture below. Watch this short video from our visit to the Miraflores Locks.

Read more – Our visit to the Miraflores Locks in Panama City  

Visitors fill the observation deck to watch this impressive cruise ship pass through the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Locks in Panama City.

3. Monkey Island Panama 

If you’re looking for a unique Panama experience, a trip to Monkey Island will do the trick. We joined the Monkey Island Tour from Panama City. It’s a 4 hour excursion that includes round-trip transportation with an English speaking guide. The tour includes a boat ride up and down the Panama Canal, so you get the added bonus of speeding past mega-ships as they sail through the canal.

More details about the Monkey Island Panama tour here .

The Lake Gatun region is home to four monkey species – Panamanian white-faced capuchin (picture below), Geoffroy’s tamarin (pictured above), lemurine owl monkeys and mantled howler monkey. Monkey Island tours allow visitors the chance to witness these monkeys up close in their natural habitat. 

You can also combine the Monkey Island Panama tour with a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary, where you can see rescued three-toed and two-toed sloths. Details about this tour  here . 

Related post – Photos from our trip to Monkey Island Panama

Panamanian white-faced capuchin spotted while on the Monkey Island Panama tour . 

Monkey Island is actually not one island. It’s a cluster of islands in Gatun Lake. Because the resident monkeys tend to move around, the boats travel to a few different locations. 

4. Soberania National Park

Located 25 kilometers from Panama City, near the town of Gamboa, Soberania National Park is the perfect day trip from Panama City for nature lovers who want to experience the Panamanian rainforest. It’s a 45 minute drive from downtown Panama City to the park.

Soberania National Park is home to over 500 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Walk the popular Pipeline Road and search for toucans, crimson-fronted parakeet, crested owls and other rare birds, like the red-bellied woodpecker and yellow-eared toucanets. 

This national park, which is over 55,000 acres, is home to over 100 species of mammals, including the white-faced capuchin monkeys, mantled howler monkey, Geoffroy’s tamarins, Tamandua Mexicana (anteater), two-toed and three-toed sloths, white-nosed coatis and agoutis. 

While there, plan to visit the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center and climb 174 steps to the top of the Observation Tower. The top platform is 32 meters high and offers incredible views of the forest.

Here’s a short video about the Discovery Center.

Gamboa Rainforest Reserve is located on the edge of Soberania National Park. This is the launch point for many outdoor activities and tourist attractions. Take the Aerial Tram tour through the rainforest and visit the Panama Sloth Sanctuary.

Learn about Gamboa Rainforest Tours here .

You can also stay overnight at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort and spend more time in the jungle. 

See more Panama blog posts from our trip here .

5. Walk or bike Amador Causeway  

Amador Causeway is where you will find many of Panama City’s top activities and attractions. The road stretches over 6 km and links the small islands of Naos, Perico and Flamenco. 

This is where the southern entrance of the Panama Canal connects with the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal spot to watch the huge container ships enter and exit Panama’s famous canal.

The star attraction at Amador Causeway is Biomuseo , a museum focused on the natural history of Panama. You won’t have trouble finding this unique museum. Just look for the bright and colourful building with futuristic architecture. The museum has eight exhibition halls that display Panama’s geology, natural history and diverse cultures.

Things to do at Amador Causeway

Visitors can rent bikes (check out  Bicicletas Moses ) or walk along the waterfront boardwalk. Make sure you snap a photo in front of the giant Panama sign along the way. If you’d like to test your luck at fishing, there’s a fishing platform just before Isla Naos. 

Other Amador Causeway attractions include Punta Culebra Nature Center, La Playita pool bar at The Beach House, Omar Torrijos Herrera’s Mausoleum, Museo de la Libertad and Flamenco Marina.

Popular Amador Causeway restaurants are Mi Ranchito, Beirut Calzada de Amador, Hapai Tiki Bar and/or Restaurante Bucaneros.

6. Megapolis Hotel Panama Rooftop Bar

The hotel has changed names since we visited. Formally it was the Hard Rock Hotel Megapolis and it’s now called Megapolis Hotel Panama. We have read that the rooftop bar is still under construction. So, check back soon to see if it has re-opened.

In the meantime, check out this list of rooftop bars in Panama .

Sunset views of the Pacific Ocean from the 62nd floor of Hard Rock Hotel Panama.

Watch this short video from the rooftop bar at Hard Rock Hotel in Panama City.

Panama City is huge! As you can see, it has a wide range of interesting architecture. 

7. Avenida Balboa and Cinta Costera

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Panama City, head to Avenida Balboa and Cinta Costera. This is the perfect place to get outside and enjoy the hot Panama climate. 

Cinta Costera is a pedestrian walkway that connects Punta Paitilla (pictured above) to Casco Viejo and Amador Causeway.

You will see a lot of Panama City by walking, running or cycling this waterfront path. There are several parks and grass sections here, so it’s an ideal place to let your kids run wild and burn off some energy.

While walking along Cinta Costera, keep an eye out for the big colourful Panama signs. Because every tourist needs a photo with a big sign, right? 

Near the entrance to Casco Viejo you will find Mercado De Marisco Cinta Costera, a popular fish and seafood market. This is a fun place to grab lunch. If you like fresh seafood, we recommend you sample some local ceviche here.  

Palm trees line the Cinta Costera path that stretches along the Panama City waterfront.

There are several outdoor basketball courts and parks on Avenida Balboa and Cinta Costera.

8. Day trip to San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are one of Panama’s greatest treasures. You won’t find all-inclusive resorts with huge swimming pools here. Nor will you find mega cruise ships or mass tourism infrastructure.

And that’s precisely what makes these remote palm tree islands so special. 

Travel to San Blas Islands is not easy. While you technically can rent a vehicle and drive from Panama City to the coast, it’s recommended that you take a San Blas Islands tour. When you factor in the cost of renting a vehicle, insurance, fuel, parking and boat transportation, it makes sense to join an organized tour. 

If your plan is to take a day trip to San Blas islands, you will absolutely want to join a tour so you can visit a few different islands. It will be a very long day that starts at 5:00 AM and ends late in the evening. If you have the time, we recommend you stay overnight on one of the islands.

You can book San Blas Islands tours here . There are several options to choose from. We booked with San Blas Dreams.

Our San Blas Islands trip did not exactly go according to plan –  find out what happened here . 

Related – How to get to San Blas Islands from Panama City

Watch this video to see the smallest island we’ve visited (also pictured above).

Our water taxi to Yanis Island, one of many remote islands in the San Blas archipelago. 

The above photo is a good reason why you want to visit the San Blas Islands. 

9. Visit Taboga Island or Pearl Islands

A fun day trip from Panama City is visiting Taboga Island or one of the Pearl Islands.

Taboga Island is only 20 km from Panama City. The Taboga Express Fast Ferry takes 30 minutes from Panama City to Taboga. The ferry departs multiple times per day. More info on tickets and schedule here . The ferry terminal is located at Fuerte Amador Mall on Isla Flamenco (Amador Causeway).

Contadora Island is the most popular of the Pearl Islands for tourists.

We spent a few nights on Contadora Island . Read about that experience here . 

Similar to the San Blas Islands mentioned above, we recommend you stay overnight on Contadora Island. This will give you time to properly relax on the beach and explore the island. However, if you’re tight on time, a day trip to Contadora Island is possible.

The ferry from Panama City to Contadora takes 90 minutes (each way).

Related – How to take the Contadora Island Ferry from Panama City

Views of Playa Cacique on Contadora Island. It’s a tropical paradise.

10. Relax at Rooftop pool

We are guilty of trying to do too much on our family vacations. Yes, we want to have as many travel experiences as possible, but we also want to enjoy some downtime by the pool.

Fortunately, many Panama City hotels have rooftop pools with awesome views.

We spent many hours relaxing by the pool. The climate in Panama is typically hot and sunny, so it’s important to slow down and take advantage of this tropical environment. 

Try to schedule some time each day to relax by the pool, especially if you’re traveling to Panama with kids. When we ask our boys what they remember about our trip to Panama, the rooftop pools always come up.

See below for a few Panama City hotels with rooftop pools.

This is the rooftop pool at Marriott Executive Apartments Finisterre in Panama City.

Where to stay in Panama City Panama

There are many hotels in Panama City, so you have plenty of options at each price point. We typically stay in mid-range hotels when we travel as a family.

Your dollar will go much further in Panama City, when compared to other big cities. Would you believe the hotel pictured above (and below) only cost us $100 CDN per night?

During our time in Panama City, we stayed at 3 different hotels. 

• Marriott Executive Apartments Finisterre – we like this property because it has 1-bedroom apartment style rooms. It has a restaurant, rooftop pool and it’s located within walking distance to Cinta Costera, Iglesia del Carmen Cathedral and plenty of restaurant options.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Panama City – this is a new property that is connected to a shopping center. Rooms are modern, spacious and very nice (see photo below). The rooftop pool has incredible views of the ocean and city. It’s also priced very well – you get a lot of value at this hotel.
• Plaza Paitilla Inn Hotel – this hotel is inexpensive and centrally located on Cinta Costera. It’s an older hotel, however we stayed in a newly renovated room. It has an outdoor pool and restaurant with nice views of the city and ocean.  

After wandering the old streets of Casco Viejo, we would recommend staying in that neighbourhood. We did not stay at a hotel in Casco Veijo this time, but we will when we return to Panama City in the future. 

Above is our room at the Residence Inn by Marriott Panama City. 

How to get around Panama City

If you plan to use a taxi, it’s safer to hire the taxi from your hotel, instead of flagging a random taxi on the street. Prices will vary depending on where you are staying.

We prefer to use Uber for transportation around Panama City. It works great and removes language barriers.

You don’t need to download a different Uber app. The app you use in Canada or the US works fine in Panama City.

By using the Uber app, you avoid giving bad directions or having issues explaining where you want to go. You also don’t have to worry about exchanging money, so it removes the fear of getting ripped off by an opportunistic taxi driver.

We felt much safer taking an Uber in Panama City.

Learn about more options for how to get around Panama City here . 

Above it the Catholic church Our Lady of Carmen, also known as Iglesias Nuestra Senora del Carmen.

If you like visiting cathedrals, add this one to the list. It’s one of the most beautiful churches in Panama City. 

This huge ‘Big Foot’ statue is located in the lobby of the luxurious JW Marriott Panama, near the Trump International Hotel and Tower Panama.

Read more blog posts from our trip to Panama:

• 50 Photos of Casco Veijo, Panama City’s Old Town
• How to get to San Blas Islands from Panama City  
• The Abandoned Hotel Contadora Resort in Panama
• Our experience visiting the  Panama Canal in Panama City

Have you visited Panama City Panama? 

Share your Panama City travel tips below. Our readers thank you!

Related posts:

06/09/2022 at 1:00 pm

Great information on how to get out to the islands. I’d like to see the city for a day or two, but love having islands (mostly) to myself to enjoy nature. Those little monkeys are so cute!

06/10/2022 at 5:40 am

Wow, that architecture! We had no idea Panama City had such cool buildings. And then that lovely promenade on Paseo Las Bovedas. We had never really considered visiting, but it’s on our Travel To Do List now, for sure! Plus, of course, San Blas Islands…we have been wanting to sink our toes in that sand! 🙂

09/18/2023 at 9:52 am

My wife and I are going there next month. Thanks for the “tour”.

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This Rare Earth

A travel resource for the adventurous and often-solo female

The Best Things to Do in Panama City, Panama

Panama , Blog , North America / January 30, 2023 by Monica / Leave a Comment

Here are the best things to do in Panama City, Panama! From Panama City tourist attractions to activities and places to go, there is a lot to see in Panama’s capital. Here are my top recommendations for Panama City must-see attractions!

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Panama City, Panama is not one of those capital cities that you should high-tail it out of as soon as possible after landing.

On the contrary, Panama City has a lot to offer! There are so many things to do in Panama City that any tourist should plan to spend at least two full days here. As one of the best places to visit in the country , don’t skip it. Trust me.

Panama City’s tourist attractions include everything from natural wonders and hikes, to manmade marvels, to history and vibrant lifestyles.

So let’s dive in and look at the best places to visit in Panama City, now!

You May Also Like: Is Panama Safe for Tourists?

Table of Contents

The Best Places to Visit in Panama City, Panama

The Panama Canal

I’d be remiss if I didn’t start off this list with the most well known tourist attraction in all of Panama: The Panama Canal . You simply can’t visit Panama and not see one of the most significant accomplishments in the history of Panama.

The Miraflores Locks Visitor Center is the closest Panama Canal viewpoint to Panama City, so it is the most popular, hands down. Just 20 minutes from Panama City, this tourist stop has a 4th story viewing platform, a small museum, an IMAX movie theatre, and a gift shop.

Between the hours of 9-11am and 3-5pm, you get to view the locks in action as large cargo ships pass by. Tickets cost $15 USD for foreign adults. Read my in depth guide to visiting the Panama Canal before you go!

Want the ease of a guided tour? Check out  this combo tour  of the Panama Canal and Panama City sights. I recommend a tour like this if you don’t plan on booking a rental car and want someone else to do the legwork.

Casco Viejo

Casco Viejo is a popular neighborhood in Panama City, and is where most tourists book their accommodations . Compared to the chaotic Panama City metropolis, Casco Viejo showcases charming buildings, educational museums, historic churches, and greaat eateries.

Old Spanish colonial buildings have been converted into boutique hotels, apartments, restaurants, and bars. Other buildings sit in ruins, sprinkled between their trendier counterparts. Tourist shops and local eateries are on every corner.

Walk Casco Viejo and take time to read the informative plaques, explore the old ruins, and relax in the town squares. Prefer a tour guide? Book a Casco Viejo Walking Tour to get your bearings! Do this on Day One if possible, and then you’ll feel confident navigating the town for the rest of your trip.

One thing to be aware of, Casco Viejo was more expensive than I had expected. Overall, Panama is not the cheapest country in Central America, but some food costs, hotel costs, and shops here were about what I would expect pay in the USA.

For helpful tips on all money matters in Panama, check out my full Panama Travel Guide .

Panama Viejo

Another worthy historical place to see in Panama City is Panama Viejo. Panama Viejo is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the location of the original Panama City.

What you will see today are the crumbling ruins of the original site. Just a couple of structures still stand (or partially stand), and modern Panama City shines in the distance.

Panama Viejo was abandoned in the mid-17th century and relocated to where Casco Viejo sits today. The pirate Captain Morgan reportedly burned down the city, leaving the ruins that you can explore today.

If you want to visit solo, it is completely possible to take a taxi here. Panama Viejo is roughly 15 minutes from Panama City and has a $12 entrance fee.

Alternately, if you prefer a guided tour of Panama Viejo, you can book that here . This is the option to choose if you want a low stress day and want a guide to teach you more of the history, which is fascinating.

I highly recommend going!

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You May Also Like: A Panama Itinerary for 7 or 10 Days

The Cinta Costera Panama sign

If you visit a country and don’t get a photo in front of their colorful sign-boards, did you really even go?

I joke. But, the Cinta Costera is a beautiful, walkable stretch of land where tourists can go running, biking, use free workout equipment, practice yoga, or more.

Right on the waterfront, this popular spot is nothing short of beautiful – but it gets hot! I recommend visiting early in the day, near sunrise, or later in the day, closer to sunset.

The Amador Causeway

Much like the Cinta Costera above, the Amador Causeway is a long coastal stroll that leads to another Panama sign. However, this one’s origin is fascinating.

The Amador Causeway was built from the massive amounts of earth removed in order to build the Panama Canal?. it is a 4-mile long walkway that connects to a nearby island and offers great views of the city from a distance.

Bonus – the Amador Causeway is a great place to watch container ships enter into the canal, but – in my opinion – is not in lieu of heading to Miraflores Locks. Locals enjoy biking, walking, and running on the Causeway, and you should, too!

A Monkey Island Boat Tour

If you have read any of my other Panama guides, then you know I absolutely loved my Monkey Island Day Tour !

Contrary to the sound of it, Monkey Island is not just one island. Rather, it is a collection of small islands in the Gatun Lake and one of the best tours in Panama City. Well, if you like cute and fluffy monkeys, that is.

Three types of monkeys live in this area – White faced monkeys, Tamarindo monkeys, and Howler Monkeys. I got lucky, and the first two species actually climbed onto my boat! So I got to see these cuties up close and personal.

If you love observing wildlife, then a visit to Monkey Island is going to be one of your favorite things to do in Panama City.

You May Also Like: What to Wear in Panama

The Museo Canal

Located in the heart of Casco Viejo, this museum is what made my visit to the Panama Canal meaningful.

Before visiting this museum, I had a vague recollection of the Canal’s history, but had no idea about the timeline and scandals met while building this modern marvel. I highly recommend that everyone visits this museum prior to their Panama Canal trip, because you will have a significantly deeper understanding and appreciation of what is sometimes called the Eighth Wonder of the World.

A ticket costs $15 USD for foreign adults and is well worth the price.

Panama Metropolitan Nature Park

If you are a hiker or nature-lover like me, then you should plan for an early morning hike in the Panama Metropolitan Nature Park. This land is a protected rainforest, and provides important environmental services to the residents of Panama City.

With both easy and moderate hiking trails, this is an easy day trip from Panama City/You will likely see loads of wildlife like I did, such as monkeys, sloths, deer, and iguanas. Oh, and birds! Loads of birds. Definitely visit early if you want to see the wildlife – many of them will sleep during the heat of day.

The entrance fee is $5 USD and a trail map is $1.50.

The Mola Museum

If you plan to visit the San Blas islands in Panama (to which I say you must !) then you should first visit the Mola Museum.

Officially called Museo de la Mo, this museum teaches visitors all about the artwork and the meaning behind the intricate tapestries created by the Guna people. The Guna people are the indigenous tribespeople that still live on the San Blas Islands today.

The Mola Museum is completely free to visit. So, basically you have no excuse!

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Mercado de Mariscos

Though I am a vegetarian, I feel I’d be remiss not to mention the Mercado de Mariscos to all of the non-veg travelers out there! This is a very popular sot for fresh caught seafood.

This casual market is part fish stalls and part dining establishments. Loads of restaurant hosts will try to pull you into their restaurants with this or that special. One tip I was given, be sure to establish the prices before you dine. Some visitors have reported being surprised by extremely large bills after the fact.

You May Also Like: A Complete Panama Travel Guide

Best Places to Stay in Panama City

• For views of the Panama Canal:  Holiday Inn Panama Canal
• For accessibility to Casco Viejo:  Tantalo Hotel and Kitchen

What Are The Best Places to Visit Beyond Panama City?

The San Blas Islands

In case I didn’t make it clear above, I absolutely loved the San Blas Islands. If you want to experience true tranquility,

You can find my full multi-day experience of visiting San Blas on the blog, but let me sum it up with this:

The San Blas islands are beautiful, small islands littered with palm trees that dot the crystal clear Caribbean Sea. Most of them are calm, relaxed, and nearly empty, though a few have either permanent local or temporary tourist communities on site.

I visited San Blas at the end fo my trip, and it was the absolute best way to close out my experience in Panama. Highly recommend!

This area of Chiriqui is about as different as can be from both city or island life. Up in the mountainous cloud forests, the temperatures are much cooler and the landscape more lush.

I highly enjoyed hiking tp the Celestine Waterfall and visiting a local Panamanian farmhouse. Picture jungles, mountains, and a spectacular view of Volcan Baru.

Note that, if you do travel here, you will need to plan in advance what to pack for Panama . The climates across Panama are varied so anyone who travels to different provinces should be prepared.

Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro are the more lively group of islands in Panama. If you are looking for a party more than a laid-back beach trip, then these islands might be for you. Parties, clubs, and blaring music are all to be expected in Bocas Town as well as several other areas.

It all depends what you want for your trip! And, if you have time on your Panama Itinerary , then try and squeeze in both islands to compare and contrast.

Check out my Best Places to Visit in Panama guide for more suggestions!

I hope this list of the best things to do in Panama City helps you to have a great time! Panama city is definitely an area not to be missed!

Which of the above attractions are you most excited to see? Let me know below!

Need more Panama Travel Tips? Check out these guides!

• A Complete Panama Travel Guide
• Is Panama Safe for Tourists? Solo Female Travel Tips
• Visiting the Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks
• What To Wear in Panama: A Packing List for Women
• Visiting the San Blas Islands, Panama: Everything You Need To Know
• A Panama Itinerary for 7 or 10 Days
• The Best Places to Visit in Panama
• The Celestine Waterfall Hike in Chiriqui, Panama

About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

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24 Best Things to do in Panama City, Panama

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: December 20, 2023

Looking for things to do in Panama City, Panama? Whether you are going on a cruise through the Panama Canal or escaping to one of Panama’s luxurious islands, chances are you are going to visit Panama City for at least a day or two. This Panama City guide will help you plan your time there.

We first visited Panama City when we were invited to check out all the cool elements of the Hard Rock Hotel downtown Panama. Not only was it a cool hotel, but the city also blew us away! It has the perfect blend of a high-tech modern metropolis combined with a well-preserved history in its old town and historic ruins.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Panama City

During our first time in Panama City, we spent a week exploring everything it had to offer in the downtown core. We visited the Old Town, and the waterfront, and stayed at one of Panama City’s most recognizable hotels, the Hard Rock Hotel Panama. (rumour has it that this hotel is now closed but the website is still up and running so it is unconfirmed)

Recently, we returned to Panama with Uncruise to sail to Costa Rica from Panama and had the chance to tick off the rest of our Panama City bucket list. This city is a modern wonder that has blended its state-of-the-art architecture with its historic center. If you are visiting Central America, make sure to spend at least a few days exploring the best of Panama City. Enjoy these must-see attractions in Panama City and extra travel tips to help you make the most of your stay!

1. Panama Canal – Miraflores

The obvious choice for first-time visitors to Panama City is to check out the Panama Canal . The closest locks to Panama City are the Miraflores Locks located less than 30 minutes from downtown making it an easy day trip. It is amazing to see the crowds that the locks still attract and even we were a bit giddy when we viewed a cargo ship going through.

The Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic ocean with the Pacific ocean, is one of the Seven Industrial Wonders of the World and when you walk through the fabulous interactive Miraflores visitors center, you’ll understand why! This was not an easy waterway to make. There are two levels of viewing platforms to watch the ships and a Panama Canal museum. It is definitely the number 1 thing to do in Panama City.

First time to Panama City? This city tour is a great introduction to Panama where you’ll visit many of the top attractions including the Miraflores Locks visitor center where you’ll skip the lines arriving as soon as they open. After you’ve seen the famous Panama Canal, you’ll make your way to Casco Viejo, the Amador Causeway, the viewpoint of Panama City, and the boardwalk and waterfront with your local expert guide.

2. Casco Viejo

No visit to Panama City would be complete without taking a stroll through its old town. Casco Viejo, (Old Town) is the historic center of Panama City that is being restored to its original glory. Dating back to 1673, Casco Viejo is worth visiting on a tour to learn about all the buildings, cathedrals, and history of the area.

The historic center of Panama is a must-visit. It reminded us of the old town of Havana, Cuba and I can envision it being as beautiful in just a few short years as hotels and corporations transform the crumbling ruins into boutique hotels. This 2-hour walking tour takes you through the old quarter, where you’ll see the top tourist attractions including San Francisco de Asis and San José churches, the Panama waterfront and admire the architecture inspired by Spanish, French and early Americans.

3. Plaza de Francia

While in Casco Viejo make sure to visit Plaza de Francia. Also, known as The French Plaza, Plaza de Francia is a monument dedicated to the 22,000 workers who died during the construction of the Panama Canal. Here you’ll be able to see the Instituto Nacional de Cultura (National Institute of Culture) that houses a theater and cultural events. The statues and tablets depict the role that the French played in the construction of the Panama Canal.

Fun Fact: It is here that you’ll see a plaque dedicated to the Cuban doctor Carlos J. Finlay, who discovered out how mosquitoes transmitted yellow fever. 

4. Convent Santo Domingo

Located in the Casco Viejo, a quick photography stop is the Convent Santo Domingo and its Flat Arch (El Arco Chato). Similar to another popular tourist attraction in Panama (eh-hem, The Panama Canal), the arch is a feat of engineering for its time. Spanning nearly 50 feet without any support, it stood the test of time and helped solidify Panama as the place for the canal connecting the two oceans. Since it had stood since the 17th century, it proved that Panama wasn’t as prone to earthquakes at Nicaragua, thus making for better, … for the Panama Canal.

5. Plaza de la Independencia (Independence Square)

 Also known as Plaza Mayor or Cathedral Plaza, Plaza de la Independencia is a plaza with the Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama (Basilica of the Virgin of Santa María la Antigua) standing proud at its center. It is a quiet respite from the city with colonial architecture housing restaurants, shops and boutique shopping. You’ll also see the Panama Canal Museum and the headquarters of the Municipal Council in Plaza de la Independencia. We stumbled upon this square during a walk around the city and fell in love with its colonial architecture, its lovely white gazebo and the shady trees lining the square.

6. Iglesia San Felipe Nativity Scene

Even if you are not religious, this nativity scene in Iglesia San Felipe is impressive. For years, families in Panama set up their own nativity scenes around the city but after the restoration of Iglesia San Felipe de Neri, one family donated their massive scene that they built up over the years for everyone to enjoy. If you take a walking tour of the Old Town, chances are your guide will take you into this hidden gem.

Other Things to see in Casco Viejo

You should spend at least an afternoon in Caso Viejo. Take a walking tour of Casco Viejo to see all the main sites and attractions. Check out this city tour with GetYourGuide

One of the best ways we explored Panama was on a private tour. This highly rated private tour lets you explore Panama at your own pace with a customizable tour to suit your desires. Follow your local guide to top-rated attractions such as Casco Viejo, The Causeway, and other parts of the city as you learn insider tips, such as the best places to eat, buy groceries and the easiest ways to get around.

• Historic Society of Jesus
• Church of San Jose – Gold Altar

Gentrification is becoming a problem for the local families that lived in this neighborhood rent-free, so I do hope the government takes care of the people who are the heartbeat of Panama City. But I do also believe in progress, and turning this UNESCO World Heritage Site into a maze of walking streets filled with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants, will help everyone in the long run.

7. Panama Viejo

Not to be confused with Casco Viejo, Panama Viejo is a fascinating tour through the abandoned ruins of the original city. The highway once ran directly through these historic monuments, but thankfully, it was diverted before it all disappeared.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to 1519, Panama Viejo was the heart of the economic power of trade, religion, and commerce. The city was in use until 1671 when the Spaniards sacked the city themselves before moving to what we know today as Panama Viejo.

Panama was the first European settlement on the Pacific Coast and became a strategic location for mining gold and silver. There are several walls and facades remaining and they are doing regular restoration. The most impressive ruin is the Cathedral – Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción where you can climb up the bell tower for a panoramic view of Panama City.

8. Cinta Costera

Cinta Costera is the beating heart of Panama City. This 64-acre oceanfront parkway is within walking distance from the major hotels, shopping malls and restaurants. One of our favorite things to do in Panama was to walk along the walking trails of Cinta Costera taking in the views of the city. Spanish for Coastal Walkway, tourists and visitors alike use this greenspace for cycling, working out or simply taking relaxing away from the hustle and bustle.

You can rent bikes or hire a rickshaw to take you on a tour of Cinta Costera to explore many of the top attractions in Panama City.

9. Balboa Avenue

Avenue Balboa is Panama City’s downtown neighborhood with skyscrapers lining the waterfront. This ultra-modern waterfront neighborhood is a fun place to hang out for the afternoon.

There’s a paved walkway for cycling or walking. You can walk all the way along the 3km route to Casco Viejo. We stopped in at five-star hotels for a cocktail and for rooftop views of the bay.

10. Amador Causeway

This incredible 6km stretch of road houses some of Panama’s top attractions. It’s located 20 minutes outside the city and offers excellent views of Panama.

It is here, that you can enjoy some fun in the sun paddle boarding, hanging out at the pool bars or do some shopping. You can also hop on the aqua bus here for a view of Panama from the water.

11. Centro Artisan Market

Located at the Amador Causeway, this huge Artisan Market is a great place to shop for your souvenirs. I’ve picked up many a necklace from here, but you can also get masks, jewelry, Panama hats, and other nick nacks here. For another great shopping experience check out the pedestrian mall at the end of Avenida Central.

12. Albrook Mall

If shopping is your thing, pay a visit to Albrook Mall. It is the largest shopping mall in Central America. This mall really is a tourist attraction unto itself. It’s the 14th largest mall in the world and that’s saying a lot. When you think about the mega malls found in Dubai and Asia, its’ amazing that one of the top 20 is in Panama. The mall is located close to the airport and is just minutes from three of Panama’s most popular tourist attractions, the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal, the historic area of Casco Antiguo, and the Causeway.

The Wyndham Hotel is connected to the Albrook Mall making it a good choice to stay in Panama if you are flying out the next day.

13. Bridge of the Americas

It is from the Amador Causeway that you can see the Bridge of the Americas. This massive bridge spans the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. It was built by the United States in 1962. What is so unique about this bridge? It connects the landmasses of North America and South America.

14. Sunset at the JW Marriott 65 Floor

Another residential neighborhood popular with ex-pats is Punta Pacifica. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Balboa Avenue, or you can take an Uber or taxi for a reasonable price.

The JW Marriott has a huge Casino attached to the main floor. If you go here, take the elevators up to the 65th floor to the rooftop bar overlooking the infinity pool. This rooftop pool and bar is one of the most chic areas in the city. It’s one of the best sunset views in the city!

15. Marvel at El Tornillo

Definitely, the most unique building in Panama City is the spiral skyrise of El Tornillo. The best view we found of it was from the Hard Rock pool bar, but we also went for a walk to check it out up close. There isn’t a lot around there, so we suggest viewing it from afar instead.

16. Buy a Panama Hat

Here’s a fun fact. Panama Hats are not made in Panama. Panama Hats originated in Ecuador and are still made there. The Panama Hat got its name when President Roosevelt was photographed wearing one while visiting the Panama Canal.

The name stuck and even though they are not made here, they are very popular. In Casca Viejo, you can find many Panama Hats on sale at shops. Victor’s is the most popular spot for purchasing a hat. What we loved about buying a Panama Hat in the shops, is that there is no bargaining. You can buy high quality or cheaper imitations ranging from $25 – $200.

17. Biomuseo

Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo explores the biodiversity of Panama. Its unique location bridges North and South America. It’s also a pretty cool and funky building!

18. Ancon Hill

For one of the best overhead views of Panama, Ancon Hill is a great stop. It is included in many Panama City Day Tours, so if you don’t have transportation, chances are you’ll be able to see it if you book a tour!

Panama City Day Trips

19. san lorenzo fort.

Checking out the San Lorenzo Fort was a part of our UnCruise itinerary and I am so glad we had the chance to see this! Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Panama, this former Spanish military fort was a strategic location for the gold trade. Located on a beautiful clifftop the ocean and Chargras River views are extraordinary. Plus, it is a well-preserved fort dating back to the 1500s.

20. Monkey Island of Gatun Lake

As part of the UnCruise land extension for their Panama to Costa Rica cruise, Gatun Lake is an excellent way to see Panama wildlife such as iguanas, crocodiles, monkeys, toucans, and sloths. I had no idea that the Panama Canal was intertwined with wide and vast waterways.

This highly rated tour takes you to Monkey Island where you’ll catch a riverboat to the Chagres River to see the monkeys of Monkey Island including white-face monkeys, howler monkeys and tamarinds on this island in Gatun Lake.

21. Agua Clara Visitor Center

This Panama Canal expansion is located at Gatun Lake and is an interesting trip to the small town of Colon City. This lock was made to accommodate larger ships sailing through the Panama Canal. You can watch the cruise ships and cargo ships go through from the viewing platforms.

There is a projection room, restaurants, and a hiking trails where you can to try to spot wildlife. You Can visit Colon, Agua Clara, and San Lorenzo Fort on a day tour with Get Your Guide from Panama City.

Enjoy our Video Tour of Panama City

No trip to Central America would be complete without getting on the water, and this boat tour out of Panama City takes you to Taboga Island where you’ll hop aboard a catamaran for a 45-minute cruise where you’ll see the extraordinary Panama City skyline, and Cinta Costera with light snacks, lunch and an all-inclusive bar included.

22. San Blas Islands

San Blas Island has gained in popularity since the Netflix series Money Heist featured the beautiful and secluded white sand beaches of the San Blas Islands surrounded by turquoise water. San Blas Port is located 2.5 hours outside of Panama City and from here you’ll take a Pangas boat to the islands. If you have more time, we suggest spending a night or two on the island, but day tours are offered from downtown.

You can book a Money Heist-themed tour to San Blas Islands from Panama City. ON this tour you’ll visit four islands in one day including snorkeling at Perro Chico, known as the best snorkeling spot in the San Blas Islands, Waily Lodge, Pelicano and the natural swimming pool on a sand bar in the middle of the ocean.

Where to Stay in Panama City

Marbella neighborhood.

Bella Vista Neighborhood

Bristol Hotel – We enjoyed our stay at the Bristol Hotel and found it to be an even better location than the Hard Rock. It didn’t have the amenities of the Hard Rock though if you are looking for a full service hotel. Instead, it is a good luxury choice for a couple of days of sightseeing. We loved the breakfast. Check Availability and Prices on Booking.com or TripAdvisor

Punta Pacifica Neighborhood

JW Marriott – We didn’t find this area to be ideally located as it is away from most of Panama’s top attractions. But the hotel is luxurious with full amenities and an excellent view of the city. Check Availability and Prices on Booking.com or TripAdvisor

Casco Viejo Neighborhood

Central Hotel Panama – Casco Viejo is probably the best location to stay in Panama if you want to be in the heart of the action. Most nightlife has moved to this area and it is near plenty of shopping and culture. Check Availability and Prices on Booking.com or TripAdvisor

Panama City Facts

• Panama uses the USD currency. It is $1 – $1.
• When shopping at markets, it is fair to bargain, but when going into shops, prices are fixed.
• Uber is available in downtown Panama City. When taking taxis be sure to negotiate prices first.
• The main international airport of Panama City is Tocumen Airport
• Panama is a good walking city and we felt safe walking around during the day. Use caution when walking at night.

Book your own  Panama / Costa Rica Panama trip   within the next year with UnCruise, you’ll get $100 per person savings on the same 10-night trip we are taking!

And these are the best things to do in Panama City. Make sure to spend a few days exploring Panama City before you set out on your Panama Cruise or Panama tour, you will love it!

What to Expect on a Panama Canal Cruise with Uncruise

• Things do to in San Jose, Costa Rica
• Central America
• Panama Travel Guide

Experience the Hard Rock Hotel Panama Megapolis

• Best City Skylines in the World – Our Favourites in Photos

Did you enjoy all this Panama City guide? Save it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

• 21 Best Things To Do in San Jose, Costa Rica
• 23 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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4 thoughts on “24 Best Things to do in Panama City, Panama”

Panama city looks cool and awesome. Thanks for sharing all these tips.

Perfect place to explore!!

Amazing post with beautiful images. helpful and informative.

Simply awestruck by Marvel At El Tornillo what an architecture…what a beauty. Thanks for sharing.

The 14 best things to do in Panama City

Mar 8, 2023 • 7 min read

With the proper planning, you'll be ready to explore the beauty of Panama City © Chrispictures / Shutterstock

Panama City? It's only got that canal, right? Well, no, actually. The Panamanian capital has way more to offer than that: world-class museums, wildlife spotting in tropical forests, paddleboarding in the Pacific. 

With soft-sand beaches, a buzzing craft beer scene, and bounteous – burp! – belly-filling food trucks,  it's got way more to offer than its massive manmade river. Though watching huge ships breathe in and squeeze through the canal is well worth a peek during any trip.

So whether you’re a first-time visitor or coming back for more, these are the 14 best things to do in Panama City .

1. Rooftop bar-hop around Casco Viejo  

You could while away the hours simply gawping at Panama City's most historic neighborhood, Casco Viejo . Dripping with galleries and boutiques, this palm-lined quarter has legions of recently-restored colonial mansions and is crowned by the fabled golden altar inside Iglesia de San José . Better still, pair your sightseeing in the capital's most atmospheric district with some expertly-mixed drinks at a rooftop bar.

At long-time favorite Tantalo , well-crafted cocktails pair with panoramic city views and sets from top DJs. Selina’s rooftop comes with a tropical vibe, pool and party atmosphere, while sophisticated CasaCasco serves sushi with its show-stopping vistas.

2. Marvel at the sheer size and complexity of the Panama Canal  

Engineering enthusiasts aside, you might think that the Panama Canal won’t be that interesting. But a visit to the city isn’t complete without a sighting of the world-famous waterway, and there are various ways to do it.

Get within touching distance on a partial canal transit or combine ship-spotting with wildlife-watching on Gatun Lake on Ancon Expeditions’ Panama Canal Rainforest Boat Adventure. On dry land, the viewing platforms at the Miraflores Visitor Center are the best places to see the mechanics in motion. Try to time a visit around when a mega-ship passes through the locks. 

3. Taste a new spin on Panamanian food  

There's no shortage of international restaurants or hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving comida típica (traditional food). But it's at Lo Que Hay – literally meaning "what there is" – where chef José Carles showcases his contemporary take on Panama 's traditional dishes. The chalkboard menu puts the spotlight on seasonal produce, but some dishes are so popular they’re always on offer – including the toasted yuca with tuna carpaccio and onion ceviche and the flavor-bomb lettuce wraps. Mojitos are stuffed with mint plucked from the courtyard garden. Book ahead.

4. Sip a cup of Geisha, the champagne of coffee 

For coffee lovers, Geisha is the stuff of legends. Originating in Ethiopia , the beans made their way to Panama and today are cultivated on the lofty volcanic slopes of the Chiriquí Highlands and Volcán Barú near Boquete . Its complex flavors and distinct aroma make it one of the world’s finest – and most expensive – cups of joe. Sample it in Casco at the industrial-chic, vegan-friendly Sisu Coffee Studio , which serves varieties from the owner’s estates. Prices for a cup of Geisha range between USD$10 to $15. 

5. Cycle the Amador Causeway  

This skinny sliver of land jutting into the bay was created from earth leftover from the construction of the Panama Canal. Originally a breakwater and a land bridge to the diminutive islands of Perico, Naos and Flamenco, the Amador Causeway is a recreation hub and favorite of both residents and tourists.

Best explored on two wheels – try Bicicletas Moses – head to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute's family-friendly Centro Natural Punta Culebra . The marine museum is filled with educational displays and exhibits detailing the lives of the three-toed sloth or the strawberry poison dart frog. Later, indulge in some hearty Panamanian fare under a palapa at Mi Ranchito . 

6. Discover Panama’s incredible biodiversity at the BioMuseo  

Designed by starchitect Frank Gehry, the BioMuseo , with its multicolored origami-like canopies, is quite a spectacle – inside and out. The world-class museum, located on the Amador Causeway, showcases how the skinny isthmus of Panama changed the planet. The museum’s eight galleries explore the country’s fascinating geology, natural history and diverse cultures through a host of interactive displays. And don’t miss the beautiful biodiversity gardens with a zone on native plant species.

7. Enjoy Guna Yala art at the Museo de la Mola  

This small – just five rooms – but perfectly curated (and free) museum in Casco Viejo celebrates the mola , colorful appliquéd textiles handcrafted by Indigenous Guna women from the San Blas Archipelago . With around 200 molas on display, you’ll learn how they’re made and how the designs evolved from geometric patterns to symbols of the natural world and pop culture icons. 

8. Go on a paddleboarding adventure in Panama Bay  

StandUp Panama offers SUP lessons for all levels, including people with disabilities, from its base on the Amador Causeway. More experienced paddlers can join the two-hour tour to the Peñón de San José, stopping to take in the stunning city views – if you’re lucky, you may spot dolphins en route. 

9. Hike the trails of the Parque Natural Metropolitano  

The Parque Natural Metropolitano is a sprawling wild space in the heart of the city and a haven for a host of mammals, reptiles, birds and outsized butterflies.  The air is filled with chirps and squawks as you explore its five easy-to-follow trails, sloth-spotting and toucan-tracking. The forest opens at the park's high point to reveal stellar views across the city. 

10. Stroll the Cinta Costera  

You'll share the Cinta Costera – a land reclamation project turned waterfront walkway  – with joggers, cyclists and in-line skaters weaving around smooching couples and stroller-pushing parents. Cool off with a fruity raspado (shaved ice), and stop to watch a game of beach volleyball or skateboarders trying out tricks. And don’t forget to slather on the sunscreen; shade is in short supply. 

11. Enjoy a fishy feast at the Mercado de Mariscos  

 A Panama City institution –  Mercado de Mariscos is a required stop. Get there early, and you’ll spot pelicans divebombing the boats as fishermen unload their catch. Inside, there’s an amazing array of seafood for sale – head to the upper level for a bird’s-eye view of the action. There are plenty of restaurants competing for your dollars, but a more budget-friendly option is to grab a cup of ceviche and an icy beer from one of the outdoor stands. 

12. Indulge in tasty treats from San Francisco food trucks  

Panama City’s San Francisco neighborhood is the home base of many of the city’s top food trucks. Urbano67 is the city’s first food truck park serving up everything from well-stuffed tacos and crispy empanadas to juicy burgers and huge burritos. Wash it all down with a craft beer or cocktail – perhaps after riding the mechanical bull – and look out for live music events, artisan markets, and stand-up comedy nights.

13. Trek to the top of Cerro Ancón, the city’s highest point  

With an enormous Panama flag – said to be larger than a basketball court – fluttering at its summit, Cerro Ancón rises 200m (650ft) above the city skyline. The paved trail winds up through its rainforest-clad slopes, dripping with vines and scattered with tropical blooms – start early and keep a lookout for the sloths, monkeys, and birds that call it home. Your reward for reaching the top is the views over gleaming glass-and-steel towers and Casco Viejo’s tiled rooftops.

14. Sample Panama’s booming craft beer scene  

Head to Casa Bruja Brewing Co.’s taproom to sample Chivoperro – Panama's first bottled IPA. And if you’re looking for more, try one of the 50 or so beers that have garnered 40 international medals. Saturdays mean brewery tours, and its smokehouse turned food truck dishes out smoked brisket and honey-fried chicken, fit for an alfresco feast in the industrial garden. In Casco Viejo, La Rana Dorada offers up its own line of award-winning brews, with a generous happy hour that runs from noon through 6pm.

This article was first published May 24, 2022 and updated Mar 8, 2023.

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Things To Do In Panama: A Complete 10 Day Panama Vacation Itinerary

last Updated: December 17, 2023 bocas del toro boquete panama panama city san blas islands

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

→ Planning a trip to Central America and looking for the ultimate Panama vacation itinerary? Look no further; I’m sharing our favorite things to do in Panama (we just got back!), including our exact 10 day itinerary, when to go, where to stay, how to maximize your time on your Panama trip, and oh so much more!

Panama is a tropical destination that has a little bit of everything – stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, laid-back surf towns, misty mountains, and vibrant cafes. There’s cultural diversity, cloud forests, and colonial charm. Wondering what to do in Panama? I’ve got you covered, don’tchu worry, my friend! <3

I was determined to somehow get all of this onto my recent Panama vacation itinerary, and was thankfully able to figure it all out! And now I’m sharing my list of things to do in Panama with all of you, including my exact Panama itinerary that we pretty much followed to a T.

I have to admit that figuring out this itinerary was kinda tricky. Yes, we followed the typical tourist route – Panama City (with a side trip to San Blas ) → Boquete → Bocas del Toro , but with only 10 days in the country, squeezing everything in proved rather difficult.

At first I wished we had a few more days, but after seeing the trip come to life (aka doing it all), I’m not so sure extra time was in fact necessary. I think we would have liked an extra half day or so in Boquete, but I just couldn’t make it work.

Do note that this Panama vacation itinerary is pretty jam packed; if you’re looking for a more relaxed trip, it’d be wise to tack on at least another 2 days or so. That being said, I carefully researched the most efficient transport options in order to fully maximize our time in the country, and it all worked out pretty swiftly.

MAIN REGIONS VISITED ON THIS ITINERARY:

• Panama City
• San Blas Islands
• Bocas del Toro

Pre-Travel Guide to 10 Days in Panama

Where is panama you ask.

The country is located in Central America sharing borders with Costa Rica to the north and Columbia to the south. It’s actually the connection of land that links Central and South America (hence, the Panama Canal)!

This itinerary starts in Panama City (which is where most international travelers arrive in the country), heads up northeast to the San Blas Islands , due west to Boquete, and then finally up north to Bocas del Toro .

We chose to fly from region to region when we could, as this saved us lots of time considering our Panama vacation was only 10 short days. The country is large but not too large, making it possible to visit three (if not four) areas when planning out your Panama itinerary.

There are a whole myriad of things to do in Panama, so carefully planning out your trip is so very important if you don’t have tons of extra time for mistakes and possible transportation mishaps (more on this below).

WHEN TO VISIT PANAMA:

Before planning a trip to Panama, it’s important to understand its weather patterns. BUT first things first – humidity is always high (hey, it’s a tropical country!), so be prepared for frizzy hair and sticky skin throughout your trip.

Panama experiences two distinct seasons, the dry season (mid-December to mid-April) and the rainy season (May to November). If you’re looking for comfortable temperatures and little to no rain, I highly suggest you visit during the dry season, which is actually Panama’s summer.

However, thankfully, temperatures remain pretty consistent throughout the year, at an average of 86 F/30 C.

But of course it’s not that easy, as different regions around the country experience different climates, temperatures, and specific rainfall patterns.

Caribbean destinations, like Bocas del Toro, have a shorter dry season, occuring in September/October and February/March, although rainfall can happen any day. Unusually heavy rains are common in Bocas in December, so it’s best to avoid that month.

Boquete experiences high winds and some misting (called bajareque) from mid-December to mid-February, while January see’s the occasional thunderstorm. Looking for some sun? Head to Boquete between March and May.

San Blas is a whole different story, which we’ll get into down below.

Don’t fret if your Panama vacation plans don’t fall within the country’s dry season – the early months of rainy season (April to July) only receive short bursts of sudden thunderstorms in the afternoon, with plenty of sunny mornings or afternoons. I’d try to avoid August through November if you don’t want rain to possibly take over your trip.

HEALTH AND SAFETY:

A few notes on health-related things:

• I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the tap water in many parts of Panama is potable, as many visitors don’t expect this! However, do note that you cannot drink the water in Bocas del Toro or on San Blas → stick to bottled.
• I was also thrilled to learn that there are no required vaccinations to enter the country. With so much lush jungle, I was shocked by this! However, always consult your doctor, as yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, and hep A and B vaccinations are recommended.
• You’ll want to take along a decent amount of sunscreen with you, as the sun is extra brutal over in these parts.
• On the last day of our trip I felt a little dizzy and wasn’t feeling my best – pretty sure I was wildly dehydrated and the intense heat and humidity wasn’t helping. Make sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty and plenty of water!

And now some safety info:

• For the most part, Panama is a relatively safe country. We felt safe during our entire Panama vacation, and didn’t worry about pickpocketing or other petty crime. That being said, there are a few areas in Panama City that are a bit seedier than the rest.
• This Panama itinerary doesn’t visit the city of Colon, but if you diverge from my recommended plans and end up there, know that the city has a high rate of street crime. Stay alert.
• There have been cases of drug trafficking on boats traveling from Colombia to Panama → just FYI and something to keep in mind if you’ll be on the water near the border.

Psst: it’s a good idea to get travel insurance no matter where you go. I recommend and personally use SafetyWing (the best insurance out there because they include pandemic coverage). They’re reliable, cost-efficient, and cover a wide array of potential travel problems, not only health-related. Check them out and get a free quote over here.

No visa is required for U.S. citizens traveling to Panama as long as a valid tourist passport and proof of onward travel is in possession, and you’re traveling to the country for 180 days or less.

HOW TO GET TO PANAMA:

Most international flights arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City, with many direct nonstop flights leaving from a wide array of large cities in the states.  

Our flight was originally scheduled as a direct flight from San Francisco to Panama City, but we got rerouted to Las Vegas at the last minute due to the groundings of the 737 MAX’s (better safe than sorry, though!)

I like using Skyscanner and Google Flights to check for prices, and most commonly find the cheapest flights on one of these. We flew economy class from SFO to Panama City for approximately $650 round trip per person, which we thought was a pretty good deal considering our dates were not particularly flexible.

→ It’s important to be very careful when booking your flights to Panama City, as there is also an airport in Florida with the same name! For this Panama vacation, you’ll want to head to the Tocumen International Airport, code PTY. And if you end up in Florida, don’t blame me! :p

Where to Stay in Panama :

• Panama City : American Trade Hotel (we LOVED) -or- Hotel Casa Panama (also great!)
• San Blas : we opted for a private thatched hut on Isla Diablo (lots more info here )
• Boquete : The Haven and Spa (Adult’s Only)
• Bocas del Toro : Azul Paradise Bocas Town

(more info on each one throughout itinerary below)

HOW TO GET AROUND:

You’ll be taking a myriad of public and private transportation during your Panama vacation! There was definitely a lot of moving around throughout the 10 days, and as noted was kinda difficult to figure out the logistics of this trip, but we made it work! And lucky you, I did all the hard work for you!

We found Uber to work in Panama City, and rates were typically much cheaper than taxis.

→ Don’t have Uber yet? It’s super easy to use! Sign up here and use code jessicak148 for $$ off your first few rides!

Here’s a quick synopsis of our travels throughout Panama:

• flight from SFO to Panama City (Uber around Panama City )
• shuttle bus and speedboat to San Blas Islands
• return to Panama City via speedboat and shuttle bus
• flight from Panama City to David → taxi to Boquete → taxi around Boquete
• shared van and shuttle boat to Bocas del Toro → taxi and boat around Bocas del Toro → walk to airport (for real)
• flight back to Panama City → flight back HOME.

Phew, told you we were moving!

You’ll want to book your inter-country flights as soon as possible, as there aren’t tons of flights per day and I’ve heard the prices jump exponentially the closer the dates get. We paid approximately $100 each per person per flight within Panama (all one-ways).

If you follow this Panama trip, you’ll need a flight from Panama City to David (for Boquete) and then Bocas del Toro to Panama City.

Do note that the airport in Bocas is prettyyy much the smallest one I’ve seen to date, with one waiting room, one “gate”, and 1-2 bag scanners. That’s pretty much it. Don’t expect to be able to grab food here, that’s for sure.

WHAT TO PACK FOR PANAMA

Panama is a country of all climates: dense, misty jungles, stunning sunny islands, and humid cosmopolitan cities.  Within this itinerary, we’ll be doing tons and tons of exploring, so you’ll want to make sure you’re completely prepared for those 10 days. Don’t worry, I gotchu.

• Because of its hot, sticky climate, you’ll want light, airy clothing.
• Comfy footwear- you’ll be walking ALOT!
• Sandals/bathing suits for the islands
• MORE DETAILED LIST COMING SOON!

Currency in Panama

Those coming from the USA will be pleased to know that Panama uses the same currency as the States, so there’s no need to worry about an exchange rate or getting foreign bills! It’s important to note that you’ll undoubtedly come across some Panamanian coins, called Balboa, used around town and on the islands in the form of coins.

With that being said, the US dollar is accepted everywhere and you don’t need to worry about exchanging dollars for balboa. Just be sure to use up any balboa you receive (when receiving change) as you obviously can’t use them in the States!

Communicating in Panama

The official language of Panama is Spanish, although quite a few Panamanians know basic English as well. We had no trouble communicating with hotel staff, taxi drivers, and/or restaurant staff, either using our limited Spanish or since they knew English. There’s also quite a few expats as well.

We had the most difficulty in the San Blas Islands, and wish we had brushed up on our Spanish a bit more before visiting (many of the locals speak their native language and Spanish, but very minimal English).

And now, what you’ve been waiting for, my complete 10 day Panama vacation itinerary!

Things to do in Panama: My Ultimate Panama Vacation Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in panama city and explore.

Fly into Panama City! You’ll find most international flights to Panama will fly into Panama City, which is perfect as it’s the first stop on our Panama itinerary!

The flight isn’t as long as I had originally thought – just over 7 hours from San Francisco (which is just over my usual flight time between SFO from JFK where I frequent for long weekends).

We chose to take a red-eye flight (so, the night before) in order to arrive in Panama City mid-morning (we landed around 10:30am, FYI), allowing us ample time to explore the city our first day.

If you’re tight on time like we were, I highly recommend you take advantage of flying the night beforehand and arriving into Panama City in the early morning.

Check into your hotel, drop your bags if ya room ain’t ready yet, then we’re directly off to lunch in Casco Viejo! There’s a whole slew of restaurant options, but we loved both the ambiance and food at Tantalo Hotel and Kitchen. The rooftop terrace was divine, and that watermelon juice was the perfect way to start our oh so lovely Panama vacation.

Panama Canal | Miraflores Locks

We’re getting right to it on the first day (don’t wanna waste any time), so the Panama Canal it is!

Ahh, the connection between the Atlantic and the Pacific – how could you miss this super popular attraction in Panama City? Ya can’t! We took an Uber from Casco Viejo to Miraflores Locks for about $15 (something like that?), which took roughly 35 minutes or so.

Out of all the things to do in Panama, the Panama Canal is at the top of everyone’s list, and for good reason. It’s utterly fascinating.

Upon arrival, you can opt to pay for a $20 ticket to all the attractions at Miraflores Locks (the museum, exhibition halls, short films, highest viewing platforms, etc), but if you’re fine with reading about the canal yourself, head up to the restaurant and watch the ships pass through for the price of a beer.

We enjoyed a few drinks while basically getting the same view as everyone who bought a ticket (woop woop). And since we didn’t have much prior knowledge on the whole Panama Canal system, we googled some fun facts and read them over a few beers.

Things to know before visiting:

• Miraflores is just one of three sets of locks in the Panama Canal, and it’s the most popular one to visit (due to its close proximity to Panama City).
• The ships don’t pass through every minute of every hour. You’ll be able to watch the ships between 9am-11am, and then again from 3pm-5pm(ish). If you’re here at a different timeframe, you’ll have to wait! We arrived at the canal around 2:45pm after getting lunch, and only waited a few minutes for the first boat to start making its way through the Miraflores section of the canal.

• Oh and trust me, you won’t want to stay the entire 2 hours or so, as the ships pass by super slowly and it takes quiiteeee a long time to set everything up. We watched 2-3 ships pass then had enough. Do keep your eyes peeled on the locks and water levels prior to a ship passing through – it’s wild!

Afternoon Stroll on the Cinta Costera

Once you’ve had enough of the Panama Canal, make your way to the Cinta Costera. We had planned to visit around sunset, but arrived early due to how quickly we got over the canal – it’s intriguing the first 2 times a ship passes through, but then kinda monotonous going forward (you’ll see). And it literally takes foreverrrr (10 hours for a ship to fully pass through the canal).

The Cinta Costera is essentially a pedestrians walkway and complex park next to the water. We enjoyed strolling around for about an hour or so, picking up some raspados from a street vendor (kinda like the Panamanian version of a shave ice) to cool off.

Walk far enough and you’ll find the iconic Panama sign – a giant colorful piece of artwork (which we unfortunately missed). If you finish early like we did, don’t fret – just watch the sunset from the next spot!

Sunset drinks at Finca del Mar

Cocktails and ceviche with a view of the sun setting on the water with a gentle ocean breeze? Sounds like the perfect way to finish off the day, am I right? The atmosphere here is very fun, with outdoor seating, string lights, and colorful seating (including a few swinging chairs at the bar). Tuna ceviche was very tasty, as were the mojitos we ordered.

If you’re still hungry → consider Cafe Coca Cola for a fast and simple dinner

This unassuming restaurant is actually the oldest cafe in Panama City! I heard that the Coca-Cola brand let the restaurant keep its name due to how long they’ve been in business! While the ambiance was nothing to write home about and the food was decent at best, it’s a quick and easy spot if you’re exhausted (like we were).

Where we stayed: Hotel Casa Panama → we loved the trendy and open-air leafy vibe of the hotel. The room was basic with funky decor touches, and the shower was heaven on earth! Located right in Casco Viejo, which is a great location to base yourself in while in Panama City!

There’s also a rooftop plunge pool if you find yourself with some time to enjoy it! It’s known to get kinda noisy on weekend nights since there’s a bar on the roof, so just keep that in mind! We slept like babies though!

Day 2: Off to the San Blas Islands!

Hopefully you went to bed early last night, because you’re getting picked up bright and early this morning! 5:30am to be exact. 🙂 Alllll your tropical island dreams, coming right up (you can sleep on the bus, I promise, although the last hour is kinda bumpy)!

Note : You’ll want to have your hotel in Panama City hold your luggage – you only need to pack a small bag for your few nights in San Blas. Suitcases are unheard of on the islands, and you’ll be getting to your final destination via tiny speed boat, so leave that large luggage behind.

We packed a few bathing suits, shorts, and tank tops, and that’s all we really needed besides basic toiletries. Ladies – leave your makeup and beauty bag behind (I couldn’t even find a mirror on the island and there’s no place to plug in items for doing your hair)! DO take lots of SPF though!

Yes, the San Blas Islands are kinda a pain to reach → you’ll need to take a 3 hour shuttle ride to the Kuna Yala port, then hop on a speed boat for 45 minutes or so to reach your island of accommodation. Worth the hassle? Easily. My advice- book a tour and everything will be taken care of for you.

P.S. → We booked with San Blas Dreams and had a lovely experience. We opted for the 2 night, 3 day experience, as you can choose to spend only 1 night on the island, or even do a day trip to San Blas (although I recommend staying over at LEAST 1 night). Alternatively, if you don’t wanna stay on the islands for 2 nights like we did ( read my FULL recap over here ), you can spend the extra time in the rainforest in Boquete.

→ Read next: everything you need to know about visiting the san blas islands

We reached our island of accommodation around 10ish or so, and had the option of lazying around or going straight out on a tour. We opted to stay put and soak up the sun, swing in the hammocks, read our books in the sand, and just enjoy each other’s company with zero distractions that first day. Oh, and get a few coconuts – the freshest water you can get!

A few things to note about the San Blas islands:

There’s really no best time of year to visit the San Blas Islands , but the Kuna’s (the indigenous people on the island) informed me that the least rainfall occurs in January, February, and March. Rainy season begins in April, comes out in full force in May, and basically lasts until the end of the year.

However , if you’re planning on heading to San Blas in the rainy season, don’t fret – you’ll still find beachdays with hours of sun even when the clouds aren’t cooperating. The weather can be tricky and unpredictable, so just hope for the best!

Accommodations are basic at best , with super simple thatched huts with literally only a bed in a single room. You won’t find any pools, sun loungers, or anything remotely luxurious on the islands (not even hot water or the amount of electricity you’re used to).

It’s very possible you’ll be sharing bathrooms with other guests (our island had one set of shower stalls and toilets for everyone), will have to charge your devices at the few outlets at the restaurant, and will eat the same meal time and time again.

You will, however, find untouched beauty, starfish in their natural habitat, tons of healthy fresh fish and coconuts, and luminous turquoise waters.

The islands are not a culinary experience ; you’ll have minimal meal variations and given a choice of fish fillet (my meal of choice), fried/grilled fish, mixed seafood, prawns (when available), and chicken (on occasion). The food wasn’t half bad, we just ate mostly the same thing for 3 days.

The Kuna’s and San Blas in general are a cash society . Plan to take some small bills with you to buy coconuts and beers, and purchase any handicrafts you may wish, as well as to supply a ~$23 Kuna tax and port fee.

Read my very thorough post about our experience in the San Blas islands to help decide if you want to add a few days on the islands to your Panama vacation.

In my opinion though, no trip is complete without visiting these glistening palm tree ridden islands (just suck it up and rough it for a few days, you got this!. Make some room in your itinerary and you’ll come home with glistening golden skin and feel relaxed as ever.

Where we slept : Beach bungalow in San Blas! Be sure to go for a night walk and look up – the stars are so bright over here!

Day 3: Get some Sun on San Blas

After a hectic first few days on this Panama vacation, it’s finally time to just relax and soak up some sun. Hopefully you slept ok, as I woke up hot and sticky each morning (allll the more reason to jump in the sea, right?)

Here’s a typical day-in-the-life on San Blas, and what you can expect during your time here:

• 7:30ish: Wake up to the birds happily chirping (your ears off)
• 8:15ish: Hot Breakfast
• 9-10: Lounge on beach, read, free time
• 10:15ish: Island hop (tour of the day)
• 1:00: Lunch back on your “home” island
• 2-7: Free time/showers (snorkel, nap in hammocks, read, swim, laze around)
• Night: beers and card games, stargazing and short beach walks

Those San Blas tours we took each day for a few hours took us to nearby islands, natural swimming pools (previously sunken islands), and sand bars, where we wandered around the islands taking photos, going for swims, snorkeling, and hanging with other people from our boat.

The Kuna’s provided rum and cokes for us to enjoy, and we even saw a bunch of exceptionally large orange starfish in the shallow waters!

I talked about this in my big San Blas blog post , but I think it’s important to mention again. Starfish are living creatures, you guys. They need to be kept in water – do not lift them out! They are extremely sensitive and should be handled with care, for the least amount of time possible.

Our Kuna guides said we could lift them up for a quick photo (still halfway submerged in water), then place them right back. Don’t go moving them all around for your perfect IG shot, just don’t do it. They’re so delicate – we want to keep these little sea beauties alive!

Where we slept : Beach bungalow in San Blas!

Day 4: San Blas in Morning/Afternoon, then back to Panama City

Last Morning in Paradise

Another day in paradise it is! Well, most of the day at least! Depending on what tour company you book with, and which package you choose, you’ll either leave San Blas at 9am or 3pm. We chose the latter, and enjoyed exploring other islands before leaving our new favorite place.

If you think you’ll want to explore a bit more of Panama City (we’ll have another ¾ of a day before leaving the country later on in this itinerary), you may want to choose the earlier San Blas departure. The beach is sooo our thing, so we opted to stay as long as possible without staying another night.

Make sure to drink alll the coconuts, revel in the warm, luminous waters one last time, and take your last nap under the palm trees!

It was a breath of fresh air to have limited amenities and zero wifi availability. After 3 days in San Blas we were oh so relaxed, although any longer and I think I’d have been longing for a hot shower more so than actually enjoying the picturesque beaches.

Back to Panama City and Dinner at Ocho y Medio

Say goodbye to San Blas, because it’s back to Panama City we go! And yes, you’ll have to head back the same way you came → a 45 minute speed boat ride back to the port, then ~2hr, 30 min van ride back. If I remember correctly, we got back to Panama City around 6:30pm or so, then headed out to dinner at Ocho y Medio before picking up our suitcases at our first hotel, Hotel Casa Panama.

→ We booked a super early morning flight to David in order to have as much time as humanly possible in Boquete, so we chose to stay close to the airport at the Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel , which is roughly a 5 minute drive to the airport.

We’re definitely not morning people, and when there’s a sliiiiight chance we may oversleep, we like to stay as close to the airport as humanly possible, while still having a comfy bed.

Where we slept: Crowne Plaza Airport Hotel (highly recommended)

Day 5: Coffee Tasting in Boquete

First things first, get yourself to Boquete

Okay, so in order to get to Boquete at a normal hour, you’ll need to take an early morning flight to David. Our flight left Panama City at 7:30am, arrived in David around 8:50am, then we took a 45 minute taxi straight to Boquete for $35 (standard price). There are no ubers in David or Boquete, so you’ll need to find other ways to get around (hence the taxi).

Note that you can also take a bus to Boquete from the David airport, but you’ll need to get yourself to the bus station first (for only a few bucks or so). If we weren’t so exhausted I think we would have attempted to take the bus as it would have been the much more cost-effective option, but oh well, we were tired!

And not to stress you out, but be sure to book early as there’s only a few fights to David per day. We booked on COPA airlines and noticed there were only two flights a day from Panama City to David, at 7:30am and 4:30pm. I’m pretty sure Air Panama has flights as well, but no more than 2-3 either (7ish, 11ish, and later on in the day).

If you want to follow this Panama vacation itinerary exactly as I have laid out, you’ll NEED to get yourself on an early morning flight. If you have an extra day or two, getting into Boquete later on in the day will be fine, but we didn’t have this luxury.

Morning Stroll through Boquete Town

As soon as we checked into our hotel (yay for early check-ins), we dropped our bags then set out for town. Honestly, we were kinda surprised at how dirty and downright sad the town looked from an outsiders point of view (I didn’t even take one photo – there wasn’t anything really to photograph). I wondered out of all the things to do in Panama if I had made a bad choice by coming here, but nope, I’ll explain below!

It’s a pretty small town and I have to admit, the walk from The Haven (our hotel) to town was much, much nicer than the actual town itself. There was tons of construction going on, a mildly run-down main street, and a few unattractive shops.

BUT, let’s not dwell on the negatives, because there are SO many positives to this luscious green area that makes Boquete so appealing. (Plus – we learned that there’s even a large expat community here, so Boquete must be more than it’s tiny unassuming little town).

So, what is Boquete known for? First of all, after one look around, it’s evident all the lushness surrounding the town more than makes up for the complete lack of charm within the town itself. With its towering mountain views, blankets of flowers, and oh so much greenery, you’d be hard pressed to find a more stunning natural scenery in the mountains.

Venture outta town and you’ll find pristine waterfalls, an ancient volcano, and treetops full of birds! If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot the stunning Volcan Baru through the misty clouds.

Boquete is located on the Caldera River, within the Chiriqui Highlands, which is home to coffee plantation after coffee plantation, and is known as more of an adventurous mountain village for those wanting to take part.  

If you have an extra day or so, you can climb Volcan Baru, go ziplining, go on epic waterfall hikes in the jungle, go rafting, and partake in a chocolate making class (among other things).

It’s high elevation in the mountains provides a cool, enjoyable climate, so you’ll want to dress a tad warmer during your day in Boquete. We thankfully were blessed with an absolutely beautiful day in the mountains, only needing a light jacket at times.

In town we had some brunch at Sugar and Spice (the most popular breakfast spot in Boquete which we LOVED) and tried the famous gesha coffee at La Viuda del Cafe (The Coffee Widow)!

The coffee, originating from a village in Ethiopia, is said to be the most expensive cup on Earth. It commonly sells for about $9 a cup, but would found it (albeit a very small cup) at The Coffee Widow for about $5. A bargain if you ask me!

We actually saw it selling for $9 a cup in Panama City later on in the week. It’s said to be smooth, fruity, silky, and aromatic, tasting a bit more like tea than coffee, and we enjoyed our few sips.

We attempted to go to Fresas Mary for some famous Boquete strawberries and whipped cream, but they were unexpectedly closed (what a bummer – we even took a taxi there!) Hopefully they’re open when you go!

The walk back to our hotel was exceptionally scenic, as we found ourselves high above the town taking in all the lush greens and fuscia-colored flowers.

Afternoon Coffee Plantation Tour

Boquete is widely known for their mass coffee production, and boasts some of the best and most expensive coffee in the world. Yup, the world!

There are plenty of coffee plantation tours to choose from, but after doing a bit of research, Finca dos Jefes sounded like the best one! And I have to admit, I think we chose correctly. The story of the farm is just so moving and inspiring!

We walked through the fields, learned about coffee cherries and traditional organic farming, were given a brief education of the coffee industry (oh, it’s so fascinating you’ll see), and learned how to properly roast coffee beans. And of course we tasted a whole bunch of freshly brewed coffee (both a medium and dark roast blend)!

Unlike other coffee tours, there were only about 8 of us in total, so we felt like we were given a more personalized experience and had allll our crazy coffee questions answered.

I especially appreciated how the tour spoke a lot about economics; the realities of the global coffee economy and the impacts made on the farmers and workers were especially eye opening and really makes you think.

And plus, the dogs on site were the absolute cutest (we’re a suuuuucker for pups!) The farm was covered in plants, flowers, and hummingbirds, and I just couldn’t get enough. Towards the end of our tour a rainbow appeared above the fields, which made for such a beautiful end to the day. A well-spent $30 (each).

Note that there are two options for tours each day, at 9am and 2pm. We obviously chose the 2pm tour since we weren’t even in Boquete by 9am! The tour lasts for roughly 3 hours, so we got back to our hotel around 5ish or so.

Private pool time and some dinner

If you’re staying at The Haven and Spa , take advantage of the pool before dinner! You’ll have to make a reservation, but this just ensures you have the pool to yourself! We were bummed it wasn’t heated, so just enjoyed putting our tired feet in.

If you’re looking for a good dinner option, we thoroughly enjoyed our meal at Boquete Fish House – you can never go wrong with some fish and chips, yucca fries, and fresh fish sauteed in white wine lemon garlic butter. Oh, and their house margs were a-okay and only a few bucks.

Where we Stayed: The Haven , and it was just like I imagine heaven to be. As soon as we arrived, I was overly wowed – the grounds are so incredibly luscious and green, and the outdoor space was so inviting. I desperately wish we had another night here.

Note that the hotel is an adults-only resort, so if you’re traveling with kiddos, you’ll have to find another place to stay. We loved the indoor pool, and we even took advantage of the fully equipped gym and sauna/steam room. The included room-service breakfast was lovely, and we ate on our outdoor patio in the garden every chance we got!

Day 6: Arrive in Bocas del Toro

Today we’re making our way to Bocas del Toro , another one of Panama’s hot spots with a chill, surfer vibe and gorgeous islands off the coast, oh, and a jungle too! Bocas is kinda the best of both worlds, allllll rolled into one archipelago of beautiful islands.

Before we dive into the Panama vacation itinerary of the day, lemme explain the geographical makeup of Bocas del Toro for a hot second (as I was semi-confused when initially researching).

Bocas del Toro is made up of a few different islands, with Isla Colon being the most popular and consisting of Bocas Town, where the bulk of visitors decide to stay, and Starfish Beach (very popular spot as well). Next you’ve got Isla Solardo, which is only a few minutes off the coast of Isla Colon, and an island not many choose to visit.

Finally, there’s Bastimentos, which is the largest of the archipelago and where you’ll find Old Bank, Up in the Hill, Red Frog Beach (very popular), and other secluded resorts/hotels. We chose to base ourselves out of Bocas Town on Isla Colon, which I’ll explain in more detail below.

→  Read Next: A Comprehensive Guide to Bocas del Toro

Transfer to Bocas del Toro

It’s semi-complicated (yes, again) to get from Boquete to Bocas del Toro, as you’ll need to take a 3.5 hour shuttle to Almirante (a port town), then a 30 minute marine taxi (which was essentially a speed boat) from there to Bocas Town. Thankfully, there are organized transportation services that will take care of everything for you.

We booked with Hello Travel Panama through Mamallena Hostel, left Boquete around 9am, and arrived in Bocas del Toro around 1:30pm or so. Make sure to schedule this transfer in advance as the shuttles get booked up beforehand.

With that being said, there’s absolutely no reason to attempt this transfer yourself, as prices weren’t half bad: $30 per person, including the boat transfer from Almirante. Our shuttle was comfortable, air-conditioned, spacious, and safe, with enough room for all luggages (on top of the shuttle actually).

Wander Bocas Town -or- head to Starfish Beach

Since we arrived in Bocas around 1:30pm, we had quite a bit of time to explore on the first day! And with so much going on this area, you’ll want to make sure to use your time wisely!

You’ve got a few different options for your first afternoon in Bocas del Toro:

• Wander around town; get some ceviche and cocktails (the lazy man’s choice)
• Head to Starfish Beach (the need-to-see-and-do-it-all choice)

Since we were feeling a bit sluggish (and hungry) after our transfer to Bocas, we kept things pretty casual by wandering around Bocas Town. We opted to miss out on Starfish Beach since I had read tons of negative reviews, with many even saying they hardly saw any starfish, or none at all.

And since we had suuuuch a wonderful experience seeing the starfish in San Blas, I felt okay missing out on Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro. Do your own research though, as the reviews are mixed at best.

However, if you think you’ll have FOMO (fear of missing out), getting to Starfish Beach on the outskirts of Isla Colon isn’t all that difficult from Bocas Town. You’ll need to take a 45 minute bus ride from the park in the middle of town to Drago, and then you can either take a quick water taxi to Starfish Beach or walk 20 minutes.

Where we Stayed : Azul Paradise Bocas Town (not to be confused with the location on Bastimentos). After doing tons of research (it’s what I do best!), we ultimately decided on Azul Paradise Bocas Town, as other hotels looked a bit run down and not in the best shape.

Bocas is kinda like a party town so be prepared for late night shenanigans and loud music, although we didn’t experience any of these things.

The hotel was modern, fresh, and in a wonderful location. We splurged and booked the King Luxury Suite, and it was roomy to say the least. With floor to ceiling windows with views of the sea, a soaking tub, and a superrr comfy bed, we couldn’t have picked a better spot.

→ There are two main options for accommodation in Bocas del Toro. You have the option of staying in Bocas Town (close to lots of bars and restaurants), or spending a few nights on Bastimentos, the island next door and much more secluded. Up to you, but we highly prefered being in the middle of everything and having dinner options (after basically eating the same thing for 3 days on San Blas).

After visited Bastimentos (later on in the itinerary), we quickly learned the sheer seclusion of the island just wasn’t for us. Up to you!

Day 7: The Ridiculously Gorgeous Zapatilla Islands

Intoxifying. Serene. Wild. Enchanting. There’s no words significant enough to describe the Zapatillas. It’s say to safe that I’m low-key obsessed with this place I had never previously heard of.

If there’s one stop you can’t miss while in Bocas, it’s the Zapatilla Islands, also known as Cayos Zapatilla. These two uninhabited islands are located east of Isla Bastimentos and are quite honestly, one of the most amazing places I’ve ever been (same level as Bora Bora I might add).

While many say that San Blas is way more beautiful than Bocas, I’d have to disagree, as long as you make your way to the Zapatillas. We booked a tour the day before with Hello Travel Panama on a whim, and I’m obviously more than glad we did.

All was (more than) fine in the end, as we not only got to visit Zapatilla Island, but also visited Sloth Island, went snorkeling and anfibia boarding, and had a fresh seafood lunch overlooking the sea.

1st Stop: Searching for Sloths at Sloth Island

We first visited the protected mangroves of Sloth Island to, well, you guessed it, look for some sloths! Despite how difficult they are to spot, we found a whole bunch! Our guides were experts at spotting them, and thankfully made sure everyone on the boat got a few glimpses! They’re kinda hard to see in the photos, but look for the hornet’s-nests-looking things! Makes me wanna go to Costa Rica (they’re known for them, right?)

2nd Stop: Snorkel and Anfibia Boarding

Next up, it was finalllyyy time to jump in the refreshing waters with some snorkel gear! We had about 45 minutes or so to snorkel, where I saw tons of colorful coral (many that I had never seen before!), schools of glistening silver fish, sea fans, parrotfish, and so much more. It’s hard to keep your eye on one thing when you’re underwater – they’re just so much to see and I get distracted quite easily.

The water was calm, clear, and sheltered from debris from land – we were out in the middle of the Caribbean Sea! I so wish I had brought my go-pro with me to photograph all the lovely underwater life.

Since we were already in the water, anfibia boarding it was! It’s kinda hard to explain what anfibia boarding actually is, so I’ll just leave you with this: it’s oh SO much fun. You’ll feel like you’re flying underwater. Move the board up and down and you’ll see what I mean.

3rd Stop: Seafood Lunch

A fresh seafood lunch over the water? Yes please! Plates start at $15 per plate, so thankfully we had brought exactly $31 with us…enough to cover two lunches and nothing else. Take a bit more cash if you want more lunch choices. Kinda expensive for what it is, but hey, they’ve got little to no competition out in the sea so they can charge as much as they want.

You can plan to pack your own lunch, but the food was surprisingly really tasty and a hot lunch after being in the water for a while was appreciated.

We had some time to explore the restaurant on stilts, and some people chose to snorkel around as there’s known to be starfish nearby.

4th and Final Stop: Zapatilla!

In my opinion, Zapatilla is by far the best beach in Bocas del Toro, and all of Panama I might add. Yes, we LOVED San Blas more than anything, but if you get a perfect day weather-wise on Zapatilla, you’ll see exactly what I mean. This serene island paradise is absolute heaven and then some. It’s actually where Survivor Panama was filmed!

Out of all the things to do in Panama on this itinerary, spending the day on Zapatilla was by far my favorite. <3

It was soooo nice to just relax on a (nearly) deserted island and soak up the sun for a few hours. Oh, and that crystal clear water didn’t hurt either – I spent a decent chunk of our time wading in the shallow waters offshore, just admiring that gorgeous turquoise Caribbean water.

Note that there are zero facilities on this stunning and untouched uninhabited island, but our tour company set up a gorgeous spread of tropical fruits for us to enjoy. The Zapatillas are actually part of the undeveloped national marine park, so you can expect to find lots of little fishies under the water, as well pay a $10 National Park entrance fee if you aren’t part of a tour.

Thankfully it was quite isolated when we were there so didn’t have to share the palm-tree lined beach/waters with too many others. There was tons of space to lay out our towels, and we chose a shady spot underneath a few palms.

With sooo many shades of turquoise and oh so many palm trees inland made for an absolutely wonderful day. It was almost unreal how perfect the day was. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!

Where we Stayed: Azul Paradise Bocas Town (not to be confused with the location on Bastimentos)

Where we ate dinner: Restaurante Azul (6 course tasting menu for $20 and very tasty!)

Day 8: Explore the Jungle and Beaches of Bastimentos

Ahh, back to the jungle it is! If you’re kinda sad you only had one day in Boquete, now’s the time to make up for it! We found Bastimentos SO incredibly different from Isla Colon and Bocas Town, so make sure you hit up this spot when you’re in the area as well! And despite their close proximity, they’re like different worlds!

Quick Note → Bastimentos is another island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, and is roughly a 10 minute boat ride from Isla Colon. If you’re staying in Bocas Town like we were and want to follow the days activities I planned out, you’ll have to first get yourself to Bastimentos Town.

You can do so by basically asking anyone on the street in Bocas for a water taxi ride (they’ll probably come right up to you and offer their services). We paid $5 each to get from Bocas Town to Old Bank, which was our first stop of the day.

Wander throughout the sleepy town of Old Bank

When we first stepped off the water taxi, we instantly knew that Bastimentos was much more rugged and real that Bocas Town. We explored Old Bank, an Afro-Caribbean community which is right off the dock from where our boat let us off. There’s not as much tourism in this area, and you’ll get to see first-hand how the people live.

We saw roosters, baby chicks, lots of laundry hanging to dry, and tons of colorful old wooden buildings amongst lush vegetation. Just follow along the main dirt path directly from the port, and you’ll come across all this and more. With flavors of the West Indies, and being the second largest town in the Bocas archipelago, don’t miss it!

(P.S. pop into any market and you’ll find cans of rum and coke – my husband loved that!)

Up in the Hill Organic Chocolate and Coffee Farm

And now the main reason we popped on over to Bastimentos for the day – to learn all about how chocolate is grown/processed! When I first heard about Up in the Hill, I knew we just had to include this on our longgg list of things to do in Panama. An organic chocolate and coffee farm with jungle tours – sign me up!

Up in the Hill is a fully sustainable farm, producing zero waste and using every last bit to better their efforts. There’s a tour through the family farm everyday at 11am, which we signed up for the night before.

But beware — Getting there is an activity in and of itself! Start making the short trek from Old Bank around 10:15ish, and keep going up, up, and up into the jungle and through the woods. They’ll be signs, don’tchu worry. The hike/walk wasn’t difficult per say, we were just super hot and sweaty from the intense humidity and heat.

Be sure to take ample amount of water, and forget about having a good hair day (I had just washed and blow dried my hair the night before – biiiiig mistake).

On the tour we saw poisonous red frogs (harmless to look at, but no touching allowed), huge spiders with insanely strong webs (you can touch these to see what I mean), parades of ants carrying leaves (just wow !), yellow tailed birds, and chocolate cocoa trees!

We learned the reasons why they’ve chosen to live off the land, how the plants work together to help the others grow, and how they go about creating and sustaining a permaculture organic farm. It’s all very fascinating stuff, and quite inspiring to say the least.

Our guide carried a machete with us throughout the jungle (don’t be alarmed), which he used to chop down plants and show us some of the fruits of his labor. At the end of the tour, we were served a delicious spread of jackfruit, plantains, banana with fresh cocoa, chocolate drinks with coconut milk, pumpkin soup, coconut brownies, and more, all made with fresh ingredients from the farm.

→ Practicalities : $25 per person; tour starts at 11am; we emailed the lady the night before to register for the tour; put on LOTS of bug spray beforehand if you don’t want to get eaten alive (I warned you)

Red Frog Beach

Beach time, finally! After making your way back down to Old Bank (it’s sooo much easier going down, trust me), take a water taxi straight to Red Frog Beach ($5 per person). We chose to get dropped off at Palmar Dock, and took a 15 minute walk to the beach through the “shortcut” for another $5 each.

It didn’t quite seem like a shortcut, but it is what it is!  On the nature walk to the beach we saw lots of monkeys playing in the jungle (ahhhh I was exceptionally excited about this) and passed a pond with caiman (in the alligator family) which royally freaked me the F out (we didn’t see any thankfully).

We unfortunately didn’t find Red Frog Beach to be anything that spectacular; considering we had already spent time at both San Blas and the Zapatillas, Red Frog was just so-so comparatively. Nevertheless, our veggie bowls and fresh fruit smoothies made for a fantastic lunch at Palmar Resort.

And after our tiring morning hiking in the jungle to Up in the Hill, laying out on the beach was an afternoon well spent. Oh, and seeing those monkeys out in the wild totally made the short trek to Red Frog Beach worth it.

You’ll have to cough up around $8 to get back to Bocas Town from Red Frog Beach.

Where we Stayed : Azul Paradise Bocas Town (not to be confused with the location on Bastimentos)

Where we ate dinner: El Ultimo Refugio

Day 9: Cocktails at Blue Coconut (or the “Floating Bar”)

Chill out for a while, then it’s off to the airport to head back to Panama City!

Cocktails and Tacos Over the Sea

On our last day in Bocas, we chose to take it easy and had a relaxing brunch at Francine’s, where we had the most delicious breakfast crepes and coffees. We wandered around town a bit more before we set off for the Floating Bar, which is essentially just that – a bar floating in the middle of the Caribbean sea!

We took a $5 water taxi here, and it only took a few minutes or so to reach the freestanding bar surrounded by water.

It was kinda dead when we went (probably because of the unfortunate foul weather), but I heard that there’s usually live music playing and people snorkeling around in the surrounding waters (to see the nearby starfish). Although we didn’t make use of all the amenities (hellooo pool floats), we still had a relaxing time. The fish and chicken tacos were bomb, don’t miss them!

Psst : you can also head to the famed Blue Coconut (closed on Fridays), which is a bit farther away but still the same vibe, so we ultimately decided on the Floating Bar because of the mix of clouds and rain.

Fly Back to Panama City in Late Afternoon

Our flight was at 6:10pm, so we had the better portion of the day to see the last of Bocas. If the weather had been more cooperative, I’m sure we would have appreciated this extra time in the area, but we were itching to get back to Panama City.

Up to you if you want to book an earlier flight or not. We flew into PAC (Albrook International) on Air Panama, but there are flights to PTY (Tocumen) as well.

Note that the airport in Bocas is supperrrr tiny and located directly in town! We even chose to walk from our hotel in town to the airport, it was that close! As noted earlier, there’s only one waiting room, one “gate”, and 1-2 bag scanners. Make sure you eat beforehand (or take along a few snacks) because there’s no restaurants over here!

Night in Panama City

We had our last official dinner in Panama at CasaCasco, which was quite delicious, although a bit pricey I might add! There’s also a night club at top, in case you’re feeling a bit frisky and wanna dance your heart out on your last night.

Where we stayed: The American Trade Hotel

The American Trade Hotel was quite possibly our favorite accommodation of our entire Panama vacation, and we wish we could have at least stayed another night. Located smack dab in the historic center of Panama City right in the heart of Casco Viejo, ATH   boasts lovely marbled tiled floors, tall ceilings with large windows (oh that natural light <3), and such charming architecture.

The old world charm of this place just makes it that much more appealing. And plus, it’s part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, so you know this place will not only have beautiful decor, but wonderful service as well. We were lucky to be given a room with a cute flower-filled balcony overlooking the square, which we enjoyed using both night and morning.

Day 10: Wander Casco Viejo and head home!

After a short sleep in, we hung by the pool for a bit then made our way downstairs to brunch at The American Trade Hotel. The decor is just lovely and the husband had to literally put my camera down for me. Even if you’re not spending the night at The American Trade Hotel , I highly encourage you to check out the restaurant for brunch/lunch, and grab some liquid fuel at the adjoining coffee shop (Unido Panama Coffee Roaster).

Stroll Around Casco Viejo

Out of all the things to do in Panama City, going for an aimless wander around Casco Viejo was by far my favorite! This historic district and UNESCO World Heritage Site wasn’t always what it is today, but has now revitalized into Panama City’s center of art and nightlife, with tons of hip cafes and restaurants.

Oh, and the colonial buildings are to die for. To. Die. For. The absolute cutest. It’s beyond instagrammable → trust me. You’ll find boutique hotels, rooftop bars, crumbling facades, and cobblestoned streets. Swoon.

Psst: you may hear this area being called Casco Antiguo or San Felipe – they’re all the same beautiful spot. 🙂

A few things not to miss out on your wander in Casco Viejo:

• Grab a quintessential Panamanian ice cone, known as a raspado to keep cool
• Check out La Michoacana and try out their condensed milk popsicles
• Enjoy fresh ceviche at the Fish Market
• Head to Weil Art for a traditional Panama Hat
• Lunch at Mahalo (loved this trendy spot)
• Admire the hand sewn molas (by the Kuna’s!) at Plaza de la Independencia

It’s important to note that Casco Viejo lies on the border with El Chorrillo, known to be a bit seedy and not highly recommended to walk around. I’m pretty sure we unknowingly ended up here, and it was quite obvious the distinction between the two areas. Note: after doing some research, I learned that El Chorrillo is one of the city’s most famous ghettos – whoops.

We were butt tired by this point, so just carelessly strolled around the city looking for buildings to admire and had some lunch.

If you want to eat all the things, I highly recommend booking a Panama City food walking tour , which will take you to the best restaurants in town to sample local coffee, chocolates, beer, cocktails and ceviche. You’ll also wander around Casco Viejo with a local guide who can explain the history of the area better than I ever could.

If you have additional time in Panama City (we would have loved another night at the American Trade Hotel and quite possibly another day or so to see the monkeys on Monkey Island ), be sure to check out these highly-rated activities:

Say Goodbye to Panama and Head Home

Be sure to book a flight later in the day or evening (our flight was at 6:30pm) so you can properly explore on your last day in Panama! It’d be an absolute shame to miss out on Casco Viejo – we loved it oh so much!

Phew! Hopefully that answers all your questions about things to do in Panama and how to carefully plan an itinerary for roughly 10 days! We were absolutely blown away by the country and can’t wait to return!

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February 24, 2023 at 5:45 pm

This is amazing!! Would you be willing to share the approximate amount your trip cost total without the flights from USA included? We are considering a trip to Panama!! So excited! But I would like to do the reservations myself as I also am a serial planner 🙂 Thank you!!

February 25, 2023 at 3:33 pm

Hi Tracy! Unfortunately I don’t have current prices, as I took this trip a few years ago! It really varies depending on your choice of hotels, where you eat, etc. I will say we found Panama to be a bit more expensive than other Central American countries, minus Costa Rica. Enjoy — it’s a fantastic country!

August 20, 2023 at 2:39 am

This is such a helpful guide! Can’t wait for my trip to Panama 🙂

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Panama City: A study in contrasts

When I booked my backpacking adventure through Latin America, I knew that my 24 th birthday would fall somewhere between Nicaragua and Colombia. Being a non-planner, I wasn’t sure exactly where I’d end up until about one week prior.

To be honest, I wasn’t too keen on the idea of Panama City. I’d pictured myself in some remote jungle romantically out of reach of Wi-Fi, or sipping sundowners on a secluded beach – to me a city didn’t feel quite so unique and adventurous for my special day. It’s well-worn wisdom on the road that you should never have expectations – whatever they are, they will always be smashed to pieces. Lo and behold, my expectations about Panama City were proven wrong and I had a birthday that I won’t forget.

Panama City is unlike any other city in Central America. The country has the fastest growing economy in all of Latin America, and the impressive skyline reflects this development. But don’t let it fool you – this city is characterized by contrasts.

Iglesia de San Felipe Neri: Cathedral in Panama City

While the waterfront is lined with high-rises, slums sit just beneath them. The bay is occupied by both humble wooden fishing boats, and gigantic shipping vessels waiting to pass through the Panama Canal. The confrontation between rich and poor is obvious, along with the distinction between new and old. Lights shine from skyscrapers on one side of the bay, while the crumbling Casco Viejo (Old Town) sits on the other. These juxtaposing worlds are the result of an intriguing and dramatic history, laced with corrupt dictatorships, drug-trafficking scandals and a complicated relationship with America.

It’s fair to say, when it comes to Panama City, there is more here than meets the eye:

Panama City’s Casco Viejo is an absolute must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage site is only four blocks wide, but packed with photo opportunities and uncovered stories.

Wandering is the activity of choice. While exploring this colorful neighborhood I discovered graffiti with both political message and vivid artistic quality, as well as aged wooden houses painted in blues, pinks and greens. I found shells of buildings that had trees and vines growing within arched, broken windows.

As I photographed one doorway, its owner emerged to chat to me. He was friendly and welcoming, and interested in where I was from and why I was there. He explained how property here was being bought up at an incredible rate, and that he was nervous as to how development would affect the beauty of the area.

RELATED: 7 FOODS YOU SIMPLY HAVE TO TRY IN CENTRAL AMERICA

Trump Ocean Club

Nothing could bear a stronger contrast to the beautiful Casco Viejo than the capital’s city center. The Trump Ocean Club, which defines the Panama City skyline with its sail-like shape, looms among lofty neighbors as a hallmark of the American money that has influenced the growth of this city, and that remains there still today. The Trump Tower is the region’s tallest skyscraper, and hosts casinos, numerous bars, hotels, and as I discovered, infinity pools.

Having been told that in one of the Tower’s casinos there was unlimited champagne for a mere $10, I of course went on a mission to find said place. I did not find any bubbly, but I did discover just how immense this building is, and how opulent. Money’s presence hangs in the air like an overpriced perfume, and if you are a humble backpacker like myself, while you are free to explore the numerous bars with their illuminated infinity pools, the lingering staff will make it known that you are not welcome to stay too long.

View of the city from Trump Tower

VISIT PANAMA AND COSTA RICA ON THIS AWESOME 13-DAY TRIP

Panama Canal

This is on the top of most people’s to-do lists for Panama City. At first I wasn’t particularly interested, but an engineer in my hostel convinced me it would be a sin not to see one of humanity’s greatest engineering feats.

I can assure you, even as someone completely disinterested in engineering – this is impressive. Visit in the morning or afternoon to make sure you see a ship passing through the Miraflores Lock from the observation deck.

It’s impressive to learn the role the Canal played in the country’s history, and in fact the world’s history, when you consider the impact it had on world trade. The Museum at the Miraflores Lock, which tells the story of the Canal, is a real highlight.

The canal’s history is littered with heavy casualties – many Europeans and Africans came to Panama to assist the build and died of tropical diseases – and numerous characters. It was France who initiated the ambitious project in 1881, but then cast it aside thinking it too expensive. Once they were out of the picture, it became a wrestling match between Colombia, the US and Panama as to who owned this lucrative band of land. In 1999 it was officially returned to Panamanian ownership from the US, and now creates around $2.5billion in revenue per year. Bet the French are kicking themselves.

Manuel Noreiga

If the Canal’s history wasn’t interesting enough for you, you’re bound to enjoy the story of Manuel Noreiga. He deserves his own Netflix series.

In the 1950s, Noreiga was a major cocaine smuggler, in cahoots with Colombia’s notorious Pablo Escobar, while at the same time being one of the CIA’s most valued spies, and even receiving training from the US Army in counterintelligence. The Americans ignored Noreiga’s illicit dealings while he was useful to them, but in the 1980s Noreiga soared up the political food-chain to become military dictator of Panama – allegedly murdering his way to the top spot. Unhappy with the position Noreiga now held, the US indicted him on drug-trafficking charges in 1988. He was removed from power and sent to the States, where he served 40 years in prison. But it didn’t end there – after finishing his sentence in the US, he was extradited to France and convicted of murder and money laundering, then extradited again back to Panama to serve a further 20 years in prison, where he remains today.

Once you’ve explored all that the city has to offer and learnt about its colorful history, Ancon Hill is the perfect spot to let it all soak in.

Being able to take in all of Panama City’s sights from one place allows you to reflect on the history that built this city, and imagine how it will evolve into the future.

Tempted to visit this unique city? Check out our range of small group adventures in Panama.

(Image credits from top to bottom: iStock/OGphoto, Intrepid Travel, Jen Welch x6)

Feeling inspired?

I've dragged my backpack across six continents, but for now it rests in the bottom of my wardrobe in Melbourne. I have a healthy obsession with bookshops, hammocks and coffee, and when not plotting the next adventure, teach English abroad. Don't ever make me choose between mountains and beaches.

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36 Hours in Panama City, Panama

By Freda Moon Updated March 30, 2023

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Panama City, the perpetually flowering capital of Panama — the small tropical country that bridges North and South America — has been fought over since its founding. The city and commercial hub, famous for the engineering marvel that is its canal, is among the unsung cosmopolitan capitals of the Americas. Flashy highrises and an eclectic culinary landscape — which includes neighborhood canteens, dim sum palaces, French bistros and kosher supermarkets — reflect the city’s international character. Panama City is also where you can feel history under your feet. The Museo Canal , celebrating its 25th anniversary, has a new permanent exhibition on the country’s route to sovereignty, including the United States’s handover of the Panama Canal in 1999, that provides visitors with much-needed context for this place that manages to be very much itself, while also a bit of everywhere else.

Recommendations

• The Amador Causeway has views of the city and the canal. It also offers a path to find wildlife at the Punta Culebra Nature Center and refreshment at Capitán Bahía .
• Museo de la Mola displays the distinctive textile art of the Indigenous Guna people, including 200 colorfully appliquéd mola. It also offers interactive and immersive exhibits.
• Fonda Lo Que Hay serves shareable dishes that celebrate Panama’s bicoastal, international food culture in a festive, music-filled setting.
• Mayda bar serves classy cocktails in a historic former social club overlooking Panama Bay in Casco Viejo.
• Mentiritas Blancas , in the Cangrejo neighborhood, has house-roasted specialty coffee that you can enjoy over a hearty breakfast and buy as gifts.
• Maito is a worthwhile splurge in Coco del Mar with a tasting menu of artful, regional dishes influenced by the country’s history.
• El Trapiche , on Vía Argentina, is a beloved local institution serving hearty and flavorful Panamanian dishes at affordable prices.
• Keene’s is a favorite for brightly hued, tropically inspired ice cream, including vegan options.
• Selina ’s rooftop bar in Casco Viejo is the place to end the night with Latin music and people watching.
• Café Unido , Panama City’s hometown coffee chain, has excellent breakfast sandwiches and a full morning menu.
• CACAO Bar Selection in San Francisco allows you to mix-and-match your own selection of exotic Oro Moreno chocolate bonbons.
• Monsters + Rako sells an eclectic mix of cheeky art prints and colorful souvenirs inspired by the country’s biodiversity and designed by a brother-and-sister team.
• Paseo de las Bóvedas , the bougainvillea-draped waterfront walkway, is a romantic introduction to the historic neighborhood of Casco Viejo .
• The Panamá Viejo archeological site preserves the ruins of the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific Coast and features the Museum of the Plaza Mayor .
• Hotel La Compañía , a new Hyatt hotel in Casco Viejo on the beautifully restored grounds of a former Jesuit convent, embraces the neighborhood’s history and has all the amenities one could want. Doubles start from about $300. (Prices are listed in U.S. dollars, which are accepted as legal tender alongside the balboa.)
• The towering InterContinental Miramar Panama may not have the character of the boutique hotels in Casco Viejo, but its convenient location in the center of the city, walkable to both San Francisco and the historic quarter, along with its wide ocean views and its resort-like swimming pool are hard to beat at this price. Doubles from about $165.
• Hotel Casa Magnolia Inn , housed in a restored French colonial mansion, is a small hotel and hostel in the heart of Casco Viejo with basic but clean and comfortable rooms. Private doubles with ensuite bathrooms start from $80, and shared six-bed dorm rooms start from $16 per bed.
• Panama City’s clean and modern two-line metro opened in 2014; while convenient for some trips, it doesn’t extend to a few key areas of the city, including Casco Viejo and the Amador Causeway. Uber rides within the city are typically between $3 and $6 and a good alternative to public transit.

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Few cities in Latin America can match the diversity and cosmopolitanism of PANAMA CITY : polyglot and postmodern before its time, its atmosphere is, surprisingly, more similar to the mighty trading cities of Asia than to anywhere else in the region. The city has always thrived on commerce; its unique position on the world’s trade routes and the economic opportunity this presents has attracted immigrants and businesses from all over the globe. With nearly a third of the country’s population living in the urbanized corridor between Panama City and Colón, the capital’s metropolitan melting pot is a study in contrasts.

Around Panama City

Avenida central, calzada de amador (amador causeway), canal authority administration building, drinking and nightlife, entertainment, iglesia de san josé and plaza herrera, iglesia y convento de santo domingo, mercado del mariscos, museo afro-antillano, the afro-antillanos, museo de arte contemporáneo, museo del canal interoceánico, palacio presidencial, parque natural metropolitano, plaza bolívar, plaza catedral, plaza cinco de mayo, plaza de francia, teatro nacional.

Standing on a small peninsula at the southwest end of the Bay of Panama, the old city centre of Casco Viejo (also known as Casco Antiguo or San Felipe) is the most picturesque and historically interesting part of Panama City and houses many of its most important buildings and several museums. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, it is gradually being restored to its former glory after decades of neglect. For views of the modern city and ships waiting to cross the canal, head for the bougainvillea-shaded Paseo Las Bóvedas , running some 400m along the top of the old city’s defensive wall between the Plaza de Francia and the corner of Calle 1 and Avenida A.

To the west, the Amador Causeway ( Calzada de Amador ) marks the entrance to the canal and the former Canal Zone, comprised of the causeway and the town of Balboa , which retains a distinctly North American character. East along the bay from the old city centre, the pulsing and chaotic commercial heart of the capital lies in the neighbouring districts of Bella Vista, El Cangrejo and Punta Paitilla, where the majority of banks, hotels, restaurants, shops and luxurious private residences can be found. Further east again, amid sprawling suburban slums, stand the ruins of Panamá Viejo , the first European city on the Pacific coast of the Americas

Casco Viejo and El Cangrejo are joined by Avenida Central , the city’s main thoroughfare. Running north of the old centre, its name changes to Via España as it continues through the downtown districts of Calidonia and La Exposición and the residential neighbourhood of Bella Vista. Isles of tranquillity far from the frenetic squalor of the city include Isla Taboga , the “Island of Flowers”, some 20km off the coast; the islets of the Amador Causeway alongside the Pacific entrance to the canal; and the Parque Natural Metropolitano , an island of tropical rainforest within the capital. Panama City is also a good base for day-trips to the canal and the Caribbean coast as far as Portobelo.

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Highlights of Panama

Explore Panama's vibrant capital, including the famous Panama Canal before heading out to the tropical rainforest. Nature trails are waiting to be explored before your flight to Bocas del Toro, where you will enjoy a few days kicking back or being active, the islands offer something for everyone.

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Cuisine & Culture of Panama

Explore Panama's culture and cuisine in depth in this itinerary. Learn about the Emberá traditions close to the capital, before heading to Panama's cultural heart. Take a local cooking class and explore the surroundings of Chitre, one of Panama's oldest settlements.

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Thrilling Adventures in Panama

Mountain-biking, river rafting, mangrove tours - Panama has endless opportunities for all adventure-seekers. Enjoy this fast-paced itinerary from Panama City to the highlands of Boquete and ending on the beaches of Boca Chica.

A growing number of budget travellers bed down in Casco Viejo. The restoration of many of the area’s colonial buildings makes it a pleasant retreat from the congestion and the pollution of the rest of the city – though there’s constantly some construction noise to contend with – and the nightlife is pretty good. The Calidonia/La Exposición area offers unexceptional but affordable modern hotels and residenciales , while further east along Via España, the districts of Bella Vista and El Cangrejo, the hub of the city’s nightlife and commercial activity, have a couple of hostels, some mid-range options and the expensive chain hotels. In high season (Dec–April) it’s highly advisable to book in advance no matter where you’re staying; hostels, in particular, are almost always booked up. It’s also best to exercise caution in all neighbourhoods after dark.

Two contrasting attractions provide welcome escapes from the frenetic pace of the capital: to the east, a short bus ride away, lie the ruins of Panamá Viejo , once the premier colonial city on the isthmus; to the southwest, and an hour by boat, tropical Isla Taboga provides a peaceful setting for some gentle hiking and beach-lounging.

Isla Taboga

Some 20km off the coast and about an hour away by boat, tiny ISLA TABOGA is one of the most popular retreats for Panama City residents, who come here to enjoy the island’s clear waters, peaceful atmosphere and verdant beauty. Known as the “Island of Flowers” for the innumerable fragrant blooms that decorate its village and forested slopes, Taboga gets very busy at weekends, particularly during the summer, but is usually quiet during the week.

Taboga’s one fishing village is very picturesque, with narrow streets, whitewashed houses and dozens of gardens filled with bougainvillea and hibiscus. Most visitors head straight for a section of beach , either right in front of the village or in front of the defunct Hotel Taboga , to the right of the pier as you disembark. The water is calmer here and the view of Panama City is magnificent, though the rubbish that frequently washes up on the beach is unsightly.

Behind the village, forested slopes rise to the 300m peak of Cerro Vigía , where a viewing platform on top of an old US military bunker offers spectacular 360-degree views. It’s about an hour’s climb through the forest to the mirador – follow the path some 100m up behind the church until you find a sign marked “Sendero de los Tres Cruces”, beyond which the trail is easy to follow. It’s a great area for spotting poison dart frogs and tarantulas, especially after some rain. The other side of the island is home to one of the largest brown pelican breeding colonies in the world and, together with the neighbouring island of Urabá, forms a protected wildlife refuge.

Panamá Viejo

On the coast about 8km east of the city centre stand the ruins of PANAMÁ VIEJO , the original colonial city founded by Pedro Arias de Ávila in 1519. Abandoned in 1671 after being sacked by Henry Morgan and his band of pirates, many of its buildings were later dismantled to provide stones for the construction of Casco Viejo, and in recent decades much of the site has been built over as the modern city has spread eastward – another new major road was being built through the site at the time of writing. Despite this encroachment, a surprising number of the original buildings still stand.

The best place to start a visit is the museum on Vía Cincuentenario near the ruins, where exhibits explain the changes that have taken place since this was a tiny Indian village around 500 BC. Only one section of the ruins, the former Plaza Mayor , requires an entry fee. The major draw here is the three-storey square stone tower of the cathedral, built between 1619 and 1629. It has a modern stairway with a lookout at the top and is flanked by the square cabildo (town hall) to the right and the bishop’s house to the left. Nearby, and free to the public, is the site of La Merced, the church and monastery where Francisco Pizarro took communion before embarking on the conquest of Peru in 1531. La Merced was once considered Panama City’s most beautiful church, and survived Morgan’s burning of the city by his use of it as a headquarters.

Avenida Central runs north all the way from the waterfront in the old city centre, through the scary, off-limits barrios of Santa Ana and El Chorillo – so don’t venture down the side streets – towards the more modern portion of the city. The pedestrianized, ten-block stretch between Parque Santa Ana , a small park, and Plaza Cinco de Mayo is the liveliest and most popular shopping district for the city’s less wealthy residents. Blasts of air conditioning and loud music pour from the huge superstores that line the avenue, while hawkers with megaphones attempt to entice shoppers inside with deals on clothing, electronics and household goods. Nowhere is the diversity and vitality of the city more evident.

To the southwest of Calidonia and El Chorillo, Panama City encompasses the former Canal Zone town of Balboa , administered by the US as de facto sovereign territory from 1903 to 1979. Balboa retains many of the characteristics of a US provincial town: clean and well ordered, it stands in stark contrast to the chaotic vitality of the rest of the city, though it conceals a troubled past.

Along the border of the former Canal Zone runs Avenida de Los Mártires . An extension of Avenida 4 de Julio and often called by the same name, the road is named in honour of the young Panamanians, mostly students, killed by the US military during the flag riots of 1964. A sculpture by González Palomino, depicting three people climbing a flagpole, was erected here in 2004 as a tribute to the fallen; above it rises Cerro Ancón , crowned by a huge Panamanian flag that is visible throughout the city. An early-morning or late-afternoon walk to the top will reward you with great views of both the canal and the city and likely sightings of toucans in the treetops.

West of Balboa, the Calzada de Amador , originally designed as the canal’s Pacific breakwater, runs 6km out into the bay, linking the mainland with the tiny islands of Naos , Perico and Flamenco . It’s a popular weekend escape for the city’s wealthier residents, who come here to jog, swim, stroll, rollerblade or cycle – you can rent bikes – and to enjoy the sea air and the views of the city and the canal. The northern sector of the causeway is being redeveloped into a complex – still under construction – which will comprise luxury bars, restaurants and hotels, and a marina, as well as the much vaunted Museo de la Biodiversidad ( w biomuseopanama.com ), a “biodiversity exhibition centre” designed by architect Frank Gehry. Building began in 2004 but has been plagued with controversy, and there is still no opening date in sight.

At the southern side of Punta Culebra, a small promontory at the end of Naos, 4km along the Causeway, and next to the unexciting Punta Culebra Nature Center , is the departure point for passenger ferries to Isla Taboga and for some of the canal transit tours. Beyond, Perico and Flamenco are home to more shops, bars, restaurants and a marina.

On Gorgas Road in Balboa Heights, the Panama Canal Authority Administration Building was built during the canal construction and is still home to the principal administration offices. Inside, four dramatic murals by US artist William Van Ingen depict the story of the canal’s construction under a domed ceiling supported by marble pillars.

At the rear of the building, where a Panamanian flag now flutters, a broad stairway runs down to the Goethals monument , a white megalith with stepped fountains that represent the canal’s different locks, erected in honour of George Goethals, chief engineer from 1907 to 1914 and first governor of the Canal Zone. Beside the monument is Balboa High School , whose ordinary appearance belies the dramatic events it has witnessed. It was here in 1964 that Zonians attacked students attempting to raise the Panamanian flag, triggering the flag riots that left a group of young Panamanians dead. During the 1989 invasion, the school was used as a detention camp for Panamanian prisoners, some of whom were allegedly executed by US soldiers.

Panama City is a 24hr metropolis, and its residents like nothing better than to drink and dance into the early hours. At one end of the great range of places to go are the cantinas and bars around Av Central: hard-drinking dives where women are scarce. Most of the upmarket places are found around El Cangrejo – around C Uruguay in particular – Amador and Casco Viejo, though the colonial centre also has some less expensive, more bohemian spots. Nightlife in the Amador Causeway centres on the Zona de la Rumba – a secure, walled enclave of glitzy bars, restaurants and clubs, with pricey drinks and a none-too-cheap taxi fare to factor in. Once you're in a particular neighbourhood, it’s easy and relatively safe to walk between venues at night. Most clubs are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and don’t get going until around midnight. Cover charges, mostly levied on weekends and for live acts, tend to be high, but often include several free drinks.

Panama City’s cosmopolitan nature is reflected in its restaurants: anything from US fast food to Greek, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and French can easily be found, and excellent seafood is widely available. The most celebrated areas to eat out in are Bella Vista and El Cangrejo – along and around Vía España, Vía Argentina, Vía Veneto and Calle Uruguay – and Casco Viejo, with a handful of restaurants sprinkled along the Amador Causeway. Cheap hot and cold takeaway meals are available from the Rey supermarket (open 24hr) on Vía España, while the food courts in the city’s numerous shopping malls are popular at weekends.

Most theatre productions are in Spanish, and can be found advertised outside theatre buildings and in La Prensa . Rock concerts and the like happen at the convention centres of ATLAPA and Figali. Check the papers, as well as w quehacerhoypanama.com , w thepanamanews.com and w prensa.com , for entertainment listings, including live music and theatre.

On Avenida A at the corner with Calle 8 is the Iglesia de San José . Built in 1673 and since remodelled, the church is exceptional only as the home of the legendary Baroque Golden Altar, one of the few treasures to survive Henry Morgan’s ransacking of Panamá Viejo in 1671 – it was apparently painted or covered in mud to disguise its real value.

One block west of San José, Avenida A emerges onto Plaza Herrera , a pleasant square lined with nineteenth-century houses. This was originally the Plaza de Triunfo, where bullfights were held, but was renamed in 1922 in honour of General Tomás Herrera, whose equestrian monument is at its centre. Herrera was the military leader of the short-lived independence attempt in 1840; he went on to be elected president of Colombia, but was assassinated in 1854. Note that beyond the plaza lies the no-go slum area of El Chorillo , which was devastated during the US invasion of Panama, leaving hundreds dead and thousands homeless.

On Avenida A stands the ruined Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo , completed in 1678 and famous for the Arco Chato (flat arch). Just 10.6m high but spanning some 15m with no external support, the Arco Chato was reputedly cited as evidence of Panama’s seismic stability when the US Senate was choosing whether to build an interoceanic canal through Nicaragua or Panama.

Even if you don’t smell the fish market from a distance, the vultures circling outside are a sure indication that you’ve reached the city’s seafood hub, on Avenida Balboa close to the entrance to Casco Viejo. Inside you’ll find a fantastic selection of Panama’s marine life on ice, with lime, and ready to consume. The market is open daily (6am–5pm) but closed the third Monday of the month for fumigation.

At the corner of Avenida Justo Arosemena and Calle 24 is a wooden former church, now the Museo Afro-Antillano , dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Panama’s large West Indian population. It’s very small, but the exhibits – photographs, tools and furniture – give a good idea of the working and living conditions of black canal-workers.

Some five percent of Panama’s population are Afro-Antillanos – descendants of the black workers from the English- and French-speaking West Indies who began migrating to Panama in the mid-nineteenth century to help build the railroad and canal. Widely considered second-class citizens or undesirable aliens, Afro-Antillanos worked and lived in appalling conditions under French and American control. Most of the twenty thousand workers who died during the French canal attempt were West Indians, and the mortality rate was four times higher among black workers than white during US construction.

Throughout the twentieth and into the twenty-first century, successive Panamanian governments have ignored the needs of Afro-Antillanos, and they remain among the most marginalized segments of the population. In spite of this, they maintain a vibrant and distinct culture whose influence is widely felt in contemporary Panamanian society. Many second- and third-generation Afro-Antillanos still speak the melodic patois of the West Indies, and the street Spanish of Panama City and Colón is peppered with Jamaican slang. Unique Protestant beliefs imported from the West Indies continue to thrive, heavily spiced Caribbean dishes permeate Panamanian cuisine, and the music, from jazz in the 1950s to “reggaespañol” in the 1990s, has made an indelible mark on the region.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo , just off Gorgas Road and housed in a former Masonic temple, has a small collection of modern paintings and engravings by Panamanian and Latin American artists, as well as temporary international exhibitions.

The excellent Museo del Canal Interoceánico , on the south side of the Plaza Catedral, explains in great detail the history of the country’s transisthmian waterway. Photographs, video footage and historic exhibits – including the original canal treaties – document everything from the first Spanish attempt to find a passage to Asia to the contemporary management of the canal.

On the seafront two blocks north of the Plaza Catedral along Calle 6, the Palacio Presidencial , built in 1673, was home to several successive colonial and Colombian governors. In 1922 it was rebuilt in grandiose neo-Moorish style under the orders of President Belisario Porras, who also introduced white Darién herons to the grounds, giving the palace the nickname of “Palacio de las Garzas”. The birds and their descendants have lived freely around the patio fountain ever since and have now been joined by a couple of cranes, donated by the South African government. The streets around the palace are closed to traffic and pedestrians, but the presidential guards allow visitors to view the exterior of the palace between 8am and 5pm daily (except Tues) via a checkpoint on Calle 4.

A couple of kilometres north of central Panama City, the 2.65-square-kilometre Parque Natural Metropolitano is an unspoilt tract of tropical rainforest that is home to more than two hundred species of birds and mammals, including Geoffroy’s tamarin monkeys, white-tailed deer, sloths and agoutis. It’s possible to complete the four main trails in just a few hours; the best of these is the combined La Cienaguita and Mono Titi trail (3km), which leads to a mirador with views across the forest to the city. As elsewhere, the best time to see wildlife, particularly birds, is early in the morning – there’s nothing to stop you from coming in earlier than the official opening time. The park office and main entrance are on Avenida Juan Pablo II.

Two blocks east of the Palacio Presidencial is Plaza Bolívar , an elegant square dedicated in 1883 to Simón Bolívar, whose statue, crowned by a condor, stands in its centre. Bolívar came here in 1826 for the first Panamerican Congress, held in the chapter-room of the old monastery on the northeast corner of the square, now the Salón Bolívar , a small museum whose centrepiece is a replica of the Liberator’s bejewelled ceremonial sword. The whole building has been beautifully restored and currently houses government offices but you can visit for free.

Next door stands the church and monastery of San Francisco , built in the seventeenth century but extensively modified subsequently. Since the impressive tower is collapsing, the place has been closed for years awaiting unforthcoming restoration.

Elderly men chat amiably among the shaded benches and gazebos of cobblestoned Plaza Catedral , which sits at the heart of Casco Viejo and the old city. It’s also known as Plaza de la Independencia, in honour of the proclamations of independence from both Spain and Colombia that were issued here. The western side of the plaza is dominated by the classical facade of the cathedral . Built between 1688 and 1796, it was constructed using stones and three of the bells from the ruined cathedral of Panamá Viejo.

Across the square from the cathedral towers the half-restored facade of the Hotel Central , built to replace the Grand Hotel , which was, in its time, the plushest hotel in Central America. Southeast of the cathedral is the Neoclassical Palacio Municipal, whose small Museo de Historia Panameña offers a cursory introduction to Panamanian history.

As Avenida Central emerges onto Plaza Cinco de Mayo , the pedestrianized section ends and the maelstrom of traffic takes over again. The plaza is actually two squares rolled into one. The first has a small monument to the volunteer firemen killed while fighting an exploded gunpowder magazine in 1914; bomberos occupy a revered position in a city that has so often been devastated by fire. To the south of the plaza stands a forlorn Neoclassical building that was once the Panama Railroad Pacific terminal. The second square, Plaza Cinco de Mayo proper, borders the legislative palace compound, identifiable by a black, monolithic monument.

The Plaza de Francia lies at the southeastern tip of the peninsula, a couple of hundred metres from the theatre, and beyond the ruined shell of the Club de Clases y Tropas – the former recreation centre for Noriega’s national guard, which was bombed during the US invasion. Enclosed on three sides by seaward defensive walls, it’s the site of a monument dedicated to the thousands of workers who died during the disastrous French attempt to build the canal. The Neoclassical French Embassy building, fronted by a statue of former president Pablo Arosemena, stands on the north side of the square. The elegant building to the east is home to the National Cultural Institute . During the colonial period the square was a military centre, with the now restored vaults under the seaward walls – known as Las Bóvedas – serving as the city’s jail; built below sea level, it is claimed that they would sometimes flood at high tide, drowning the unfortunate prisoners within.

There are several souvenir shops lining Vía Veneto in El Cangrejo, and a handful of shops catering to tourists clustered along C 1 in Casco Viejo – the best is the Galería de Arte Indigena. Av Central. The pedestrian zone running between Plaza Cinco de Mayo and Casco Viejo is the place to go for low prices on any type of goods.

Just south of Plaza Bolívar on Avenida B is the Teatro Nacional , designed by Genaro Ruggieri, the Italian architect responsible for La Scala in Milan. Extensively restored in the early 1970s, the splendid Neoclassical interior is richly furnished and decorated in red and gold, with French crystal chandeliers, busts of famous dramatists and a vaulted ceiling painted with scenes depicting the birth of the nation by Panamanian artist Roberto Lewis. Official opening hours are rarely adhered to, but if the door is open, you can usually take a look around; alternatively, try to catch a performance here.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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Panama Travel Blogs

These are all of my travel blogs about panama. .

From the exciting capital Panama City, to tropical island life in Bocas del Toro and the San Blas Islands, and rainforest treks in Boquete, find out the best places to travel to in my Panama travel blogs and travel guides.

Happy exploring!

Travelling To The San Blas Islands, Panama

It’s time to travel to the San Blas Islands in Panama – a highlight of my time in Central America.

“The most content people on the planet”.

That’s what the article in Wanderlust magazine said. It was talking about the Guna Yala – the indigenous people living on the San Blas Islands just off the east coast of Panama. My plan? To capture some of that happiness to take home!

The draw of this archipelago is more than just spending a day lazing on a deserted beach; it’s to witness the Guna Yala culture first hand. These indigenous people live in a handful of places in Panama and Columbia, with the islands of San Blas being the most densely populated. It’s fair to say, this Guna Yala region is particularly special.

Panama’s government has tried to control and change these communities against their will. After a few revolutions, there is now a treaty in place, which permits them to have a certain degree of autonomy. Some islands are tiny, with little more than a dusting of sand and a few palm trees, others have small shacks or basic hotels, while a few are more developed and home to large communities with their own schools and churches.

How To Get To The San Blas Islands

First things first, this San Blas Islands map will help you get your head around where the islands are…

If you want to stay overnight, that can be arranged, otherwise you return in the evening. These San Blas islands tours are pricey and you’re restricted to a rigid itinerary, not to mention travelling with a bus-load of tourists.

We looked at other ways to get there, but felt nervous about the options. Many forums said that you could be stopped from going along the road to the port, and that some of the roads were in such bad condition they might be difficult to navigate even in a 4×4. Add to that, the main road wasn’t even listed on Google Maps!

Panama: Top Places To Visit

There’s plenty more to Panama than the canal! Find out the best places to visit including Bocas Del Toro, Boquete and the stunning San Blas Islands.

How much do you know about the Central American country of Panama? Before I went, I knew there was a famous canal and they had their own type of hat. However, what I found was a country with breathtakingly diverse landscape, friendly people, buzzing cities and relaxed desert islands. The climate was tropical with high temperatures all year round on the coast, and some welcome cooler temperatures in the mountains.

With two weeks, you can cover a lot of ground. A few months ago I fell in love with Guatemala, and didn’t expect another country to come close, but Panama really won me over. If you’re not convinced yet, perhaps this will help…

Bocas Del Toro

Bocas Del Toro is an archipelago of nine main islands and over 50 smaller islets in the Caribbean. They are beautiful and it’s very easy to settle into the relaxed pace of ‘island life’. On the main island Colon you’ll find several hotels, restaurants, bars and shops, but venture away from here and you’ll have a more authentic Panamanian experience.

I stayed on Isla Bastimentos (the second largest island) at the family-run Hotel Caribbean View . It was all hands on deck – parents in the kitchen cooking, the son driving the water taxi, small kids running around helping rent out kayaks. It was a really local experience! Other great places to stay in Bocas del Toro include overwater bungalows on Isla Colon where you can snorkel right from your own deck.

Visiting Panama City In Panama

Find out all there is to do in Panama’s buzzing capital Panama City including visiting the Panama Canal, the malls and the old town.

Visiting Santa Catalina, Panama – The Hidden Gem Of The Pacific Coast

Find out more about visiting Santa Catalina, Panama, including how to get there, where to stay and what there is to do in the small beach town.

Read this before visiting Boquete in Panama

With lush rainforest and cooler temperatures, Boquete in Panama is a huge contrast to Bocas Del Toro and Panama City. Find out more and plan your visit.

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Complete Panama itinerary - 14 - 21 days, 5 - 8 stops

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Most Panama itineraries that you find online will only include the Panama highlights like Bocas del Toro, San Blas, Panama City, or Boquete. In our Panama itinerary, we feature some off-the-beaten path destinations like Boca Chica, Santa Catalina or Valle de Anton to include in your Panama backpacking trip.

Interested in doing some backpacking in Panama? This Panama travel blog will provide you with unique things to do as well as the best places to visit in Panama!

You can use this Panama itinerary as a loop and fly in and out of Panama City. You can also use it to incorporate it in a longer Central and South America trip travelling to and from Costa Rica and Columbia without any flights.

Our itinerary takes at least 2 weeks in Panama to complete but of course, you can also stay longer and extend your stay in Bocas del Toro for some beach vibes, Santa Catalina for some surfing, Valle de Anton for some hiking or Panama City for some city vibes - there’s really no upper limit.

• Why visit Panama?

Why is Panama worth visiting? Easy! It’s one of the most diverse countries in Central America with a great tourist infrastructure. From families over couples to solo backpackers Panama offers something for everyone. You can stay in cheap dorms, glamping tents or all-inclusive resorts. You can take tourist shuttles or the save and convenient public transport. You can eat traditional dishes or western food. You can relax on the beach or hike. You’ll find waterfalls, volcanoes as well as paradise islands. The wildlife is incredible on land and in the water.

What to do in Panama?

• Hiking Panama

The best destinations to hike in Panama are Boquete, Hornito, and Valle de Anton.

• Best beaches in Panama

The best beach destinations are Panama’s amazing islands like Bocas del Toro and San Blas in the Caribbean as well as in the Gulf of Chiriqui in the Pacific.

• Budget Panama

Panama is not the most budget-friendly country in Central America. In fact, it was the country with our highest spending per day on our half-year trip. We roughly spent 70 USD per person per day (yes, the official currency used in Panama is the US Dollar), which also included expensive activities such as diving.

Things to do in Bocas del Toro

How to get from panama city to bocas del toro, how to get from puerto viejo to bocas del toro, things to do in hornito, how to get from puerto viejo to hornito, things to do in boquete, how to get from bocas del toro to boquete, optional (especially during the whale season): boca chica and the gulf of chiriqui, things to do in santa catalina, how to get from hornito or boquete to santa catalina, optional (especially for hikers): valle de anton (anton valley), things to do in panama city, how to get from santa catalina to panama city, things to do in san blas, how to get from panama city to san blas, day 1-3: bocas del toro.

Bocas del Toro is one of Panama’s two main Caribbean island paradises - the other being San Blas. If you’re an island and beach lover like we are, we definitely recommend visiting both. We also recommend to visit more than one island if your time schedule allows for it. Stay on the main island Colon for major party vibes and move to a quieter island-like Solarte or Bastimiento for some relaxation afterwards.

Of course, there are plenty of things you can do in Bocas del Toro, including chocolate tours and sloth spotting but the main two reasons why people come are the nightlife and the beaches. It’s super easy (and reasonably priced) to take taxi boats around the archipelago.

Bocas del Toro beaches

Locals told us that their favourite beach is Playa Bluff on Colon. Our personal favourite is Playa Polo on Bastimiento. It’s the quintessential Caribbean beach with palm trees, coconuts, and some nice snorkelling. The famous Red Frog Beach is nice but the waves and currents are quite strong so it’s tough to swim.

Bocas del Toro nightlife

The pinnacle of all Panamanian parties is Filthy Friday in Bocas del Toro. It’s an island-hopping party that goes on the whole day so it’s not strictly part of the nightlife. Great party spots in Bocas del Toro include the Floating Bar, the Selina on Colon and the Aqua Lounge on Carenero.

Pro Tip : The Aqua Lounge is a hostel and a party location - stay here if you’re looking to party hard (not necessarily if you’re looking for sleep). It’s also the last stop of the Filthy Friday party. If you stay in the hostel, you can just pregame here and save the 30$ entrance fee. Additionally, the afterparty is wild and only open for guests of the hostel*.*

Bocas del Toro scuba diving

Diving or snorkelling Bocas del Toro is a definite recommendation. We dove with Panama Dive School and could not recommend them more ( not sponsored ).

You can either go snorkelling from the beach like at Polo Beach on Bastimientos or join a guided tour for example to Zapatilla. Be careful that you cannot go snorkelling everywhere because some beaches face the open Caribbean and have too strong waves and currents.

There is a daily night bus from Panama City to Bocas del Toro. It leaves at 8 pm and the drive from the Albrook terminal to Almirante takes around 9 hours. Here, you can take a watertaxi. The providers are all on the same road in case you want to compare and leave regularly throughout the day.

We took a shuttle, it’s the easiest option. At a price of 25$ (including the boat) you just don’t save that much compared to public transport and they also help you with the border formalities.

Day 5-7: Hornito or Boquete

Explore the Panamanian jungle. On the way from the Caribbean Coast to the Pacific coast, travellers have basically two options: Hornito and Boquete. We chose Hornito because it’s easier to reach as it lies directly on the way between Almirante and David. The downside: There is not much to do in the area besides hiking. If we could choose again, we would probably stay in Boquete, where you have a lot more infrastructure and options.

People come here to hike and enjoy the cloud forest.

Celestine Waterfalls

Celestine Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area. It’s a true hidden gem as it’s not marked on Google Maps. You’ll have to hop on a bus to reach it and bus drivers will know where to drop you off. Your hostel will give you detailed directions.

Lost and Found Hostel

The Lost and Found Hostel might be the most infamous hostel in this region. To be completely honest, it might not be the best place to stay during rainy season as you have to hike in and many areas lack roofs. But it’s definitely a great social place to keep you busy. They offer hiking trails, a treasure hunt and communal dinners which makes this an amazing base for solo travellers.

Absolutely no need for a shuttle here. Most people take a boat to Almirante, a 1$ taxi to the bus terminal and hop on the bus to David. Tell the driver where you want to be dropped off in Hornito and the bus will stop.

Another option is to take the boat to Chiriqui Grande. Buses either leave directly at the harbour or a shared taxi will bring you to the gas station for 1$ where you can hop on a bus to David

Like Hornito, people come here to hike. We have not been to Boquete ourselves but some of the things that have been recommended over and over to us are:

• The Lost Waterfalls hike
• Hike Baru Volcano
• Take a coffee or chocolate tour
• Our shuttle driver recommended to visit the Caldera Hot Springs

Best Coffee Tours Boquete Panama

Travel Guides

Best Coffee Tours Boquete Panama (2023)

Learning about and tasting Boquete coffee is one of the best Boquete tours you can do!

To get from Bocas del Tori to Boqete, the first step is the same as going to Hornito. You want to stay on the bus until David, where you can hop on a chicken bus to Boquete.

Disclaimer: We have not gone here ourselves as we did not visit Panama during the whale season from July to October but we heard that it’s worth a visit all year round.

The fishing village Boca Chica is one of the last hidden gems of Panama. It’s easy to reach from David by bus. It’s also the jumping off point for the islands Isla Boca Brava, Isla Palenque, Islas Ladrones, Islas Paridas and Islas Secas in the Gulf of Chiriqui. The Chiriqui National Marine Park is a paradise for scuba divers and fishing enthusiasts.

Day 8-9: Santa Catalina

People come to Santa Catalina for two reasons: to surf and to visit Coiba. The town itself is quite sleepy with a few restaurant options but nowhere near as lively as other Central American surf spots like Puerto Escondido (Mexico), El Tunco (El Salvador) or San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua).

Pro Tip : As of 2022, there is one ATM in Santa Catalina but it’s not 100% reliable.

Surfing Santa Catalina

If you want to surf, you should base yourself at Playa El Estero - it’s the nicest surf beach in town. Unless you’re heavily into surfing 1 or 2 full days should be enough here. You can find various surf camps of which Surfers Paradise and Oasis Surf Camp come highly recommended.

Scuba diving Coiba

Scuba diving or snorkelling Coiba is one of the highlights in the whole of Central America. You can see a plethora of sharks (bull sharks, reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks - you name it), rays, whales (July to October), turtles, and much more in this national park. Be warned that diving has quite a steep price tag here as you have to go far out with the boat - we paid 190$ for our three-tank boat dive including a small lunch and the nationalpark fees. We wish we could recommend our dive centre but we cannot, we heard good things about Panama Dive Center though.

Take a shuttle for 40$! You can theoretically take local buses but it takes ages. You can take a first bus to David, a second bus to Santiago, a third bus to Sona and a fourth bus to Santa Catalina. The bottleneck on your journey is the last bus from Sona to Santa Catalina. The last bus of the day leaves at 4 pm. We have met plenty of travellers who have missed this bus and needed to take a taxi for around 30$ which made their journey longer, more stressful, and more expensive.

Disclaimer: We did not go here ourselves as we were already quite “hiked out” by our previous hiking heavy travels through Central America.

Valle de Anton is the largest inhabited volcano crater in the world which seems pretty amazing in itself. The main activities are hiking and visiting waterfalls. In that respect, it’s quite similar to Boquete and Hornito but it’s more of a hidden gem.

You can reach it from Panama City by a direct minibus which leaves every 20 - 30 minutes from the Albrook terminal. If you’re coming from the direction of David, you have to exit the bus at the Las Uvas crossing. Here, a colectivo leaves towards Anton Valley every 20 minutes.

Day 10-12: Panama City

Unlike other capitals in Central America, Panama City is definitely worth a visit. It’s rather safe and walkable with some nice bar and restaurant options. There’s a modern part of town, where you’ll find skyscrapers and hotels with rooftop pools and the historic part of town or Casco Viejo . If you have the time it’s nice to spend time in both areas.

There are a bazillion blogposts about things to do in Panama City so rather than giving a comprehensive list, we only name a couple of our favourite things.

Visit a rooftop bar

Or all of the rooftop bars. We have tried a different one every day and must say Tantalo is our favourite. Selina has a great view but mediocre service, Casa Casco offers no shade, and Lazotea is pretty pricy.

Take a free walking tour in Casco Viejo

Like all free walking tours, it’s completely worth it - especially if you’re too lazy to do a lot of research yourself.

Walk along la Cinta Costera

If you walk from Casco Viejo, you get great skyline views. Additionally, you can stop at Mercado de Mariscos for some cheap seafood.

Visit the Panama Canal

As people who are not engineering enthusiasts, we were a bit hesitant to make our way to the canal but we must say it was worth the visit. Plus it’s an easy trip as you can just take an Uber.

The easiest way is the 8 am bus to Sona. Here, you can hop on a direct bus to Panama City after a short wait which will bring you all the way to Albrook Terminal.

Day 13-14: San Blas

If you have time, don’t just take a day trip but stay at least for one night. You’ll be rewarded with an amazing sunset and sunrise as well as empty beaches.

Basically, you visit San Blas to do some combination of island-hopping and beach bumming. Of course, you can also learn more about the indigenous Guna Yala culture. Some of the highlights are:

Visit Pelicano Island

Which is famous from the Netflix series "Money Heist”. There is not much to do here besides taking pictures, relaxing in a hammock or on the beach and some light snorkelling.

Take a tour to a Guna indigenous community and Saiba waterfall

Expect a hike and bring some good shoes. You can also buy a mola, the traditional textile art.

Eat seafood

It’s not uncommon to get a lobster for dinner. Just enjoy.

It’s easiest to take a tour. The road is quite bumpy and the region is part of the indigenous province Guna Yala which comes with its own rules and controls. Most tours are “all-inclusive” deals including transport, accommodation, food, and activities which is super convenient.

You can decide whether you want to be dropped off in Panama City again or continue your Central America trip and make your way to Columbia!

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Exploring Panama City, Panama with kids

A re you visiting Panama? Your time in the country will almost certainly begin or end with a few days exploring its capital city, and there are lots of fun activities to check out. It was the first stop on our family gap year trip around the world, and we were very happy with all of the great family activities in Panama City, Panama!

Looking for more ideas for visiting Panama? Check out our complete guide!

Pro tip:  Take Uber everywhere! It’s cheap and easy, and the cars are generally nicer than regular taxis (especially from the airport). Many rides in the city are just a few dollars. If you’re traveling with young kids, check out the best travel car seat options to use in Uber. If you’re new to Uber, save $5 on your first two rides .

Things to do in Panama City with kids

Visit miraflores locks.

There is nothing for which Panama is more famous than its namesake canal, which connects the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean through a series of locks relying only on gravity and clever engineering. The Canal opened in 1913 and has changed the world in so many ways over the last century, from accelerating the globalization of commerce to impacting global ocean circulation patterns that drive weather systems. Today there are 14,000 ships that pass through the Canal every year, and if you plan your visit to the locks right, you’ll be able to witness some of them. You can easily combine a visit to the Miraflores locks with a stop at the Biomuseo below.  

Located part of the way out on the Causeway Amador, the Biomuseo is a gorgeous, colorful Frank Ghery designed space dedicated to the wealth of biodiversity of Panama. We love the way the museum’s layout integrated the world-altering formation of the Panama isthmus with discussions of Panama’s past and present species of flora and fauna. What’s more, there’s even great information on Panama’s history from multiple perspectives from the pre-Colombian era to present day engineering marvels. A visit to Biomuseo is a great complement to the Miraflores locks, as it’s just an affordable Uber ride separating them.

Monkey Island and Panama Canal tour with Panama Day Trips

If you only have two days in Panama City, make sure to book this small group tour with Panama Day Trips. The monkey islands in Panama are a fun and interesting place for visitors of all ages, and these wonderful tour guides provide great context to make it a rich experience. You’ll also get to see both coasts of Panama, the newest project of the Panama Canal and much more. This tour was one of the highlights of our trip to Panama! Read more about it here or book your tour today .

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Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute

If your family enjoys visiting zoos and aquariums, don’t miss the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s (STRI) small FREE educational center on the Causeway Amador. Our whole family “ooooh”ed and “ahhhhh”ed at the sea turtle display, while the young English-speaking guide in the reptile exhibit taught us so much and did an amazing job of engaging the kids. There’s also a beautiful touch tank with sea stars and a building housing aquariums representing each of the various aquatic habitats of Panama.

Bike the Causeway Amador

One of Panama’s newer public works projects is the Causeway Amador, a 6km path for walking and biking that extends from the main portion of Panama City all the way out past STRI and Biomuseo. The bike rentals were very affordable compared to the US, and drivers other cyclists out that direction seemed generally respectful. You can either rent bikes in the city and go out to the Causeway, or as we did, rent at the end of the Causeway and go back in the direction of the city. We kept our family’s ride very short, as it was Jacob’s first solo ride, but he did great and made it to the Smithsonian for a visit.

We were pleased to find that Burke Bikes has a wide range of options available for our family, including a rear-mounted seat for Shoshana and a 14” kids bike for Jacob (with his choice of whether or not to use training wheels). They also offer family-sized quad bikes if you’d rather have everyone together. No matter what gear you choose, there’s a nicely paved, dedicated bike path that runs adjacent to the sidewalk – no worrying about oncoming traffic! There’s also a great nautical-themed playground where parents can enjoy city or sea views while the kids practice their climbing skills. And if you find the bag of Shoshana’s clothing that we left behind, please sent it our way!

Stroll through Casco Viejo (Casco Antiguo)

I’ll admit that I don’t think we did justice to Casco Viejo (displayed on local signs as Casco Antiguo). This section of the city dates from the 17th century and is an amazing place for street photography, especially in the evening! It’s an area that really demonstrates the juxtapositions you’ll find in Panama City, with decaying buildings now housing a bustling night scene. If you have the time an interest, I’d recommend booking a free walking tour of the area – it’s probably the best way to quickly get acquainted with a city.

Where to eat in Panama City, Panama

By far our favorite restaurant in Panama City is the venerable El Trapiche in El Cangrejo. The bargain-prices Panamanian restaurant attracts tourists and locals alike with its delicious food at extremely reasonable prices. We liked it so much that we ate on their spacious patio twice! The portions are extremely generous, so order accordingly.

Between us, we sampled the range of Panamanian specialties: frijoles y arroz for Shoshana, ceviche for me, “amazing” steak for Jacob and “old rope” for Ronnie – all served with a healthy portion of caramelized plantains to finish things off.  For the adult visitors, you’ll find all of your favorite Central American cocktails on the menu (especially rum-based drinks!). If given the choice again, we’d probably eat every meal at El Trapiche in Panama City.

Where to stay in Panama City, Panama

We liked staying in the El Cangrejo neighborhood for its centrality. We had a great stay at the Hampton by Hilton Hotel and it was an awesome bargain – with their long weekend promotion and our AAA discount, we paid only  $75 per night for a two-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom suite!  While we often stay in vacation rentals to give our family more space to spread out, the Hampton by Hilton was almost as spacious. The hotel also features a swanky rooftop pool with amazing views of the city at night. Ronnie loved sneaking off to the fitness center after the kids went to bed. In the morning, breakfasts featured a mix of typical American far and local specialties. Book your room today!

Read more: Get more info on visiting Panama with kids!

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