Things To Do
in Panama
Panama is a country of tropical forests, dramatic coastlines, and a strategic canal that shaped global trade. From the modern skyline of Panama City to the pristine beaches of Bocas del Toro, it offers a surprising mix of urban culture and wild nature. Its diverse communities blend Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences into vibrant music, cuisine, and festivals.
Travelers experience a welcoming vibe, a well-developed infrastructure, and a tropical climate that invites daily exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Tocumen International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Panama City. After settling in, enjoy a traditional Panamanian breakfast at a local cafe, savoring dishes like hojaldres and scrambled eggs. Take a leisurely stroll around the bustling Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire its colonial architecture.
Explore the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you can watch ships navigating through the locks. Enjoy a light lunch at the on-site cafe with panoramic views of the canal. Educate yourself on the canal's fascinating history and engineering marvel through interactive exhibits.
Head back to Casco Viejo for dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city skyline. Indulge in a mix of Caribbean and Latin cuisine while enjoying the sunset. Afterward, take a walk through the vibrant streets filled with live music and street performers.
Set off early to bike or hike the scenic trails in the Soberania National Park, where you can spot unique wildlife and enjoy the lush rainforest. Visit the Ancon Hill for stunning panoramic views of Panama City and the Pacific Ocean. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful surroundings.
Return to the city and visit the Biomuseo, a museum dedicated to Panama's biodiversity and natural history. Enjoy lunch at the museum's cafe, featuring local ingredients. Engage in the museum's interactive exhibits that showcase the importance of Panama's natural environment.
Spend your evening in the vibrant neighborhood of Marbella, known for its dining options and nightlife. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of the many upscale restaurants offering a fusion of international and local flavors. Finish your night at a nearby lounge, where you can sip on cocktails while enjoying the local ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $50-90 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚌Monthly transit pass | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Great biodiversity and natural beauty
- Strong infrastructure and safety in cities
- Friendly locals and a convenient use of USD
- Two coastlines offer varied experiences
- Traffic in Panama City can be heavy
- Tourist crowds in peak season
- Weather can be humid and rainy, with frequent showers
- Some remote areas require longer travel times
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Panama
Visit one of these nice places.
Short, paved hike with sweeping panoramic views over Panama City, the canal, and the Pacific coastline—best at sunrise or sunset.
Photo opportunities across narrow colonial streets, colorful facades, and vibrant plazas—golden hour light is ideal.
Wide ocean vistas, the skyline at distance, and teal water framing ships and boats entering the canal.
Architectural lines and waterfront scenery near the museum offer modern photography angles with natural backdrops.
Food in Panama
Panama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A balanced platter of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat or fish, representing the classic Panamanian lunch.
Must-Try!
A hearty chicken and root-vegetable soup, often seasoned with culantro and served with rice on the side.
Fresh raw fish cured in citrus with onions, cilantro, and peppers—popular along the coast.
Fried green plantains served as a side or snack, often accompanied by sauces or toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Waterfront market in Panama City offering freshly caught fish, ceviche, and grilled options.
Morning markets with tropical fruits (mango, papaya, guava), yucca, cassava, and herbs—great for snacks.
Vibrant rows of food stalls offering empanadas, fried plantains, and quick bites after a day of sightseeing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes.” Handshakes are common; maintain polite conversation and eye contact.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and cultural sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Be patient with service; building relationships matters in Panama, so small talk and courtesy go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Panama
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants commonly include no service charge; leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares and leave tips in cash where possible.
US dollars is the de facto currency; many places also accept Panamanian balboa, especially for coins. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities; carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, mostly sunny days with less rain; ideal for outdoor activities, beaches, and canal viewpoints. Humidity is high but manageable with early starts.
Frequent brief afternoon showers and lush landscapes; mornings are often clearer, and misty rainforest photography is common. Pack a light rain layer and quick-dry gear.
April and November can offer a balance of fewer crowds and variable weather—great for flexible itineraries and steady wildlife viewing.
Panama at Night
Hiking in Panama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic rainforest trail just outside the capital; renowned for birding and dense jungle scenery.
Short, accessible city hike with panoramic views of the canal and skyline.
A volcanic crater valley with waterfalls, forests, and scenic overlooks within a few hours' drive.
Airports
How to reach Panama by plane.
Panama’s main international gateway about 20–25 km from downtown; well-connected by taxi, rideshare, and shuttles.
Regional airport in David serving western Panama; convenient for trips to Boquete and the Pacific coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic group with mixed Indigenous, African, and European heritage.
Significant communities along the Caribbean coast contributing music, cuisine, and culture.
Rural communities with distinct languages and traditions; responsible tourism supports local livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The country’s favorite sport with local leagues and community games across cities.
A long-standing sport with strong youth programs and regional pride.
World-class waves at Santa Catalina and nearby Pacific beaches draw surfers from around the world.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Panamanian dishes can be adapted: look for veggie casados with beans and plantains, or request sides like yuca, rice, and fresh vegetables; inform cooks about avoiding meat-heavy broths.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Panama.