Dry Season
The dry season runs from December to April, offering the best weather for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
巴拿马
Panama, a vibrant Central American country, offers a rich blend of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. From the iconic Panama Canal to lush rainforests and beautiful beaches, there's much to explore beyond the capital city of Panama City.
Panama_canal_panoramic_view_from_the_top_of_Ancon_hill.jpg : Brian Gratwicke der · CC BY 2.0- Best MonthsDecember to April
- AirportsTocumen International Airport (PTY), David Airpo
- TransitBuses, taxis, Metro
- Power110V, Type A/B plugs
- Tipping10% recommended
- LanguageSpanish (English in tourist areas)
01
When to go
The best time to visit Panama is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This period offers pleasant weather and is ideal for outdoor activities.
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
The wet season lasts from May to November, with frequent rain but lush landscapes.
Cool Season
Temperatures are cooler in the highlands, making it a great time for hiking and exploring.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural Hub
Casco Viejo
A historic district with colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions.
Can be crowded with tourists.
Food and Nightlife
El Cangrejo
A lively neighborhood known for its restaurants, bars, and proximity to public transport.
Busy atmosphere, especially at night.
Beach Destination
Bocas del Toro
A beautiful archipelago famous for its beaches, diving, and laid-back vibe.
Requires a flight or long bus ride.
Nature Retreat
Boquete
A charming mountain town known for coffee plantations and hiking trails.
Cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.
Urban Experience
David
The capital of Chiriquí province, offering a mix of urban and rural experiences.
Less touristy than other areas.
Cultural Experience
San Blas Islands
An archipelago known for its indigenous culture and stunning beaches.
Access requires a boat trip.
Historical Site
Colon
A port city with historical significance and access to the Panama Canal.
Less developed than Panama City.
Nature Spot
Gamboa
A small town near the Panama Canal, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatching.
Limited accommodation options.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Sancocho
A traditional chicken soup, best enjoyed at local eateries.
→ Try it on a rainy day for comfort.
Ceviche
Fresh fish marinated in citrus, commonly found at beachside shacks.
→ Look for the freshest catches.
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef stew, often served with rice and plantains.
→ A hearty local favorite.
Patacones
Fried green plantains, a popular snack or side dish.
→ Perfect with ceviche.
Tamales
Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves.
→ Great for breakfast.
Arroz con Pollo
Chicken and rice dish seasoned with spices, found in many homes.
→ A comforting classic.
Chicheme
A sweet corn drink, perfect for cooling off.
→ Look for street vendors.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Panama Canal
An engineering marvel that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Casco Viejo
A UNESCO World Heritage site with charming streets and historic buildings.
Bocas del Toro
Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
Coiba National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site with rich biodiversity and beautiful islands.
Metropolitan Natural Park
A green oasis in Panama City, offering hiking trails and wildlife.
Amador Causeway
A scenic road with views of the city skyline and the canal.
El Valle de Antón
A picturesque town in a volcanic crater, known for its markets and hiking.
San Blas Islands
Famous for their pristine beaches and indigenous culture.
Darien National Park
A remote area with diverse ecosystems and indigenous communities.
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
A resort offering access to the rainforest and wildlife tours.
The Biomuseo
A museum dedicated to Panama's biodiversity and natural history.
Fort San Lorenzo
A historic fort with views of the Chagres River and Caribbean Sea.
Panama Viejo
The ruins of the original Panama City, rich in history.
Cerro Ancón
A hill offering panoramic views of the city and canal.
La Amistad International Park
A UNESCO site shared with Costa Rica, known for its biodiversity.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Tocumen International Airport (PTY) and David Airport (DAV) serve as the main gateways to Panama.
PTYTocumen International Airport
DAVDavid Airport
Public Buses
Buses are an affordable way to travel between cities and regions.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in urban areas, but agree on a fare beforehand.
Metro System
The Metro in Panama City is efficient and connects key areas.
Domestic Flights
Consider domestic flights for longer distances, especially to islands.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type A and B plugs are used, with a standard voltage of 110V.
Cash
The US dollar is widely accepted, but it's good to have some local currency.
Tipping
Tip around 10% in restaurants and for services.
Language
Spanish is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore the main attractions.