Panama-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Panama City

Morning

  • Arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
  • Take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in Panama City (~ $20-30)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the nearby Miraflores Locks at the Panama Canal, a must-see attraction in Panama City

Afternoon

  • Explore the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Walk through the colorful streets, visit the Cathedral, and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants

Evening

  • Head to the rooftop bar at La Posta for stunning views of the city skyline
  • Try some local cuisine like ceviche or empanadas

Things to Know

  • Panama uses the US dollar as its official currency
  • Spanish is the official language, but many Panamanians speak English
  • Be prepared for tropical weather with sunscreen, hat, and light clothing

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Panama for tourism or business stays up to 180 days
  • Check with the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements

Day 2: Panama City

Morning

  • Visit the Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, to learn about Panama’s natural history and biodiversity
  • Take a stroll through the adjacent Parque Natural Metropolitano, a lush urban forest

Afternoon

  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in El Chorrillo neighborhood
  • Visit the bustling Mercado de Abastos, a marketplace with fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of Panama City’s trendy restaurants, like Donde José
  • Experience the city’s nightlife in the El Cangrejo neighborhood

Day 3: Gamboa and Soberanía National Park

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Gamboa, a charming town at the entrance of the Panama Canal
  • Visit the Soberanía National Park, a lush rainforest with hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching

Afternoon

  • Take a scenic drive along the canal, stopping at lookout points like Miraflores Lake
  • Enjoy lunch at one of Gamboa’s local restaurants, serving traditional Panamanian cuisine

Evening

  • Return to Panama City and relax at your hotel or explore the nearby Costa del Este neighborhood

Day 4: Bocas del Toro

Morning

  • Fly from Panama City to Bocas del Toro, an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea (~ $100-150 round-trip)
  • Check-in to your hotel or eco-lodge and explore the colorful town of Bocas

Afternoon

  • Take a boat tour to nearby Red Frog Beach or Starfish Beach, known for their stunning beauty
  • Snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea

Evening

  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of Bocas’ many restaurants, like El Ultimo Refugio
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the town’s laid-back atmosphere

Day 5: Return to Panama City

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing in Bocas del Toro or exploring the nearby islands
  • Fly back to Panama City (~ $100-150 round-trip)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Panama Viejo, a historic site with ruins of the original city
  • Explore the nearby Museo de la Ciudad de Panamá, showcasing the city’s history and culture

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Panama City’s top restaurants, like Maito
  • Reflect on an amazing 5-day adventure in Panama!

Transportation

  • Taxi: readily available, but agree on a price before departing
  • Uber: available in Panama City and other major towns
  • Bus: affordable and frequent services between cities
  • Flight: domestic flights connect major cities like Panama City and Bocas del Toro

Other Tips

  • Stay hydrated with bottled water and avoid drinking tap water
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience
  • Respect local customs and traditions