Panama Canal Miraflores Locks
Region: Near Panama City
Modern architecture
The highlight of canal tourism where visitors can watch massive gate operations from observation decks.
Tourism in Panama
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Casco Viejo (Panama Historic District)
Region: Panama City
Cultural heritage
The old town with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings from the Spanish colonial era.
Panama Viejo Ruins
Region: Eastern Panama City
Cultural heritage
Ruins of the old capital destroyed by pirates in 1671 with museum.
Bocas del Toro Archipelago
Region: Caribbean side
Nature
Popular tropical islands surrounded by coral reefs for diving and beaches.
San Blas Islands (Kuna Yala)
Region: Caribbean Sea
Nature
An eco-resort with over 360 small islands and preserved Kuna culture.
Darién National Park
Region: Darién Province
Natural heritage
UNESCO-registered virgin rainforest and birdwatching sanctuary.
Coiba National Park
Region: Off Veraguas Province
Natural heritage
Marine protected area including former prison island with migrating whale sharks and mantas.
Portobelo and San Lorenzo Fortifications
Region: Colón Province
Cultural heritage
Caribbean defense fortresses and townscape from the Spanish Empire era.
El Valle de Antón
Region: Coclé Province
Nature
A resort town located within a volcanic caldera offering hot springs and hiking.
Boquete Highlands
Region: Chiriquí Province
Nature
Base for coffee plantations, cloud forest trails, and Barú Volcano climbing.
Suggested itineraries
3-Day Capital and Canal Tour
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: Miraflores Locks, Casco Viejo, Ancon Hill
Experience the canal mechanism, colonial heritage, and modern skyscrapers in a short time.
6-Day Highland Coffee and Beach
Duration (days): 6
Highlights: Boquete plantations, Barú Volcano, Bocas del Toro
Active plan combining mountain coolness and Caribbean transparent sea.
10-Day Complete Panama Tour
Duration (days): 10
Highlights: Darién National Park, Coiba Island diving, San Blas Island stay
Long journey conquering three natural heritage sites and experiencing diverse cultures and wildlife firsthand.
Travel tips
- Rainy season (May–November) brings afternoon showers; folding umbrella essential.
- U.S. dollar bills circulate directly; prepare plenty of small denominations under $20.
- Many taxis lack meters; confirm fare before boarding.
- Metro has good security and available from flat $0.35 fare.
- Restaurant tap water not potable; purchase bottled water.
- Drone photography prohibited in some indigenous areas.
- Caribbean side has many sandflies; prepare insect repellent.
- Pacific coast in dry season has strong sun; sunscreen and hat necessary.
- Hiking comfortable with early morning departure in tropical climate.
- Always carry passport copies; keep originals in hotel safety boxes.