Overview
Panama, a small yet incredibly diverse country in Central America, is famous for its iconic canal, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture. With a mix of modern cities, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests, Panama offers a variety of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Panama Canal, hiking through rainforests, or relaxing on the Caribbean coast, Panama provides the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban excitement.
Quick Facts
- Language: Spanish (official), English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
- Currency: Panamanian Balboa (PAB), U.S. Dollar (USD) is also widely accepted
- Climate: Tropical, with a wet season (May to November) and dry season (December to April)
- Best Time to Travel: December to April is the dry season, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips
- Visa: U.S. citizens and many other nationals do not need a visa for stays up to 180 days
- Power Plugs: Type A, B, 110V
- Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST), UTC -5
Where to Fly Into
The main international airport in Panama is Tocumen International Airport (PTY), located in Panama City. It serves as a hub for flights from North America, Latin America, and Europe.
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget options range from $15-50 per night, mid-range hotels from $60-150, and luxury accommodations start at $200+ per night.
- Food: Street food and local meals typically cost $3-10, while restaurant meals range from $10-30.
- Transport: Public transportation is affordable, with buses and metro rides costing less than $1. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available in most cities.
Climate
Panama has a tropical climate, with high humidity and year-round warm temperatures. The dry season is perfect for outdoor activities, while the wet season is great for experiencing lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F)
- Summer (June to August): 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F)
Safety
Panama is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any destination, it’s important to exercise caution in certain areas, especially in Panama City’s more tourist-heavy neighborhoods. Stick to well-known destinations and use reputable services when traveling to remote areas.
Top 10 Things to Do in Panama
- Explore the Panama Canal: No visit to Panama is complete without seeing the famous Panama Canal. Take a tour at the Miraflores Locks or the Agua Clara Visitor Center for an up-close look at this engineering marvel.
- Relax on the Beaches of Bocas del Toro: Bocas del Toro is an idyllic archipelago with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and surfing.
- Visit Casco Viejo (Old Panama City): This UNESCO World Heritage site is a charming colonial neighborhood with cobblestone streets, vibrant plazas, and historic buildings, perfect for exploring on foot.
- Trek in Volcán Barú National Park: For an adventurous hike, head to Volcán Barú, the highest point in Panama, where you can enjoy panoramic views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
- Swim in the San Blas Islands: The San Blas Islands are an unspoiled paradise, home to over 360 islands and cays. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and experiencing the indigenous Guna culture.
- Take a Jungle Tour in Darien National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Darien is a remote and biodiverse rainforest with opportunities for wildlife spotting, indigenous culture visits, and river excursions.
- Explore the Panama Rainforest: Panama’s rainforests are filled with incredible biodiversity. Visit the Soberanía National Park near Panama City for a guided tour and to spot wildlife like monkeys and tropical birds.
- Visit the Panama Viejo Ruins: Discover the remains of Panama’s first Spanish settlement, Panama Viejo, which was founded in 1519 and now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Stroll Around the Biomuseo: Located in Panama City, the Biomuseo showcases the biodiversity of Panama, including its role in the creation of the isthmus and its importance in world ecology.
- Experience the Embera Indigenous Culture: Take a boat trip to visit an Embera village along the Chagres River, where you can learn about their traditional customs, food, and arts.