Jungle-draped isles and modern marvels unite two continents in nature's playground.
Bridging the Americas with a flourish that only Mother Nature could design, Panama is far more than its famous canal. This slender strip of land packs more biodiversity per square mile than a rainforest full of taxonomists could catalogue. The country's dramatic coastlines embrace two oceans, while its interior hosts everything from mist-shrouded cloud forests to indigenous villages frozen in time. In Panama City, glittering skyscrapers cast shadows over colonial cobblestones, creating a fascinating timescape where centuries blend seamlessly. The Casco Viejo district whispers tales of pirates and prosperity through its pastel-colored walls, while the ultramodern skyline mirrors the yachts gleaming in the bay. Meanwhile, the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal slices through the countryside, a testament to human ambition that somehow manages to complement rather than compete with the surrounding wilderness.
Panama delivers adventure in spades, from snorkeling in the crystal waters of Bocas del Toro to hiking through the pristine rainforests of the Soberania National Park. Watch giant cargo ships squeeze through the Miraflores Locks, spot rare quetzals in the highlands of Chiriquí, or lose yourself in the magic of the San Blas archipelago, where the Guna people maintain their traditional way of life on picture-perfect coral islands. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, history buff, or beach lover, Panama offers endless opportunities for discovery.
Off the beaten track
Venture into the Darién Gap, Panama's wild frontier where the Pan-American Highway finally admits defeat. This remote region, home to indigenous communities and untouched rainforest, offers intrepid travelers a glimpse of Panama at its most raw and authentic. Just remember - this is true wilderness, requiring proper permits and local guides. For something equally unique but more accessible, take a dugout canoe up the Chagres River to visit the Embera people, whose traditions remain largely unchanged despite their proximity to the capital.
Something to think about
While Panama's tropical climate means year-round warmth, the rainy season (May to December) can make some roads impassable and some islands inaccessible. The country's infrastructure varies widely - from ultra-modern in Panama City to charmingly basic in remote areas. Plan accordingly and embrace the contrasts - they're part of Panama's unique appeal. Speaking some Spanish will enhance your experience significantly, especially outside the capital.
Best time to visit
When to go on a Panama City Trip
Excellent
Good
Mixed
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Panama Trips & Tours in january
january
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in february
february
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in march
march
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in april
april
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in may
may
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in june
june
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in july
july
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in august
august
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in september
september
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in october
october
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in november
november
Season
Panama Trips & Tours in december
december
Season
As Seen in
11 Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialists 2025
No. 1 & No. 2 Tour Operator in Travel + Leisure's Best Awards 2024 & 2025
Best Booking Platform in Women's Health Travel Awards 2025
Travel Specialist voted as Latin America A-List Travel Advisor 2025
"Timbuktu can take relatively complex and slightly amorphous travel plans and transform them into a well-organized, perfectly tailored trip."