Panama 6 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Panama City

  • Morning: Arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Miraflores Locks, one of the most impressive feats of engineering in the world, where you can see massive ships passing through the Panama Canal. ($20 entrance fee)
  • Evening: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of El Cangrejo, known for its restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Things to Know:

  • Panama City is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic colonial architecture.
  • The official currency is the Panamanian balboa (B/), but US dollars are widely accepted.

Day 2: Panama City Exploration

  • Morning: Visit the Casco Viejo, the historic old town, and explore its colorful streets, plazas, and colonial architecture. ($10 entrance fee)
  • Afternoon: Stop by the Panama Canal Museum to learn about the history of the canal and its significance in global trade. ($5 entrance fee)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city, serving a mix of Panamanian, Latin American, and international cuisine.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available, but make sure to agree on the price before you start your journey.
  • Uber is also an option, with many drivers speaking some English.

Day 3: Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

  • Morning: Take a guided hike in the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve, exploring the lush tropical forest and spotting exotic wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and toucans. ($60-$80 per person)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Soberanía National Park, which offers stunning views of the Panama Canal and surrounding rainforest.
  • Evening: Return to Panama City and enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel or exploring the city’s nightlife.

Things to Know:

  • The Gamboa Rainforest Reserve is home to over 1,000 species of plants and animals.
  • Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and bring insect repellent and sunscreen.

Day 4: Boquete, Chiriqui Province

  • Morning: Fly from Panama City to David, the capital of Chiriqui Province (approximately $100-$150 per person)
  • Afternoon: Transfer to Boquete, a charming town in the mountains, known for its coffee plantations and stunning natural scenery.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Boquete’s cozy restaurants, serving local specialties like seafood and traditional Panamanian dishes.

Transportation:

  • Domestic flights are available from Panama City to David with Copa Airlines or Air Panama.
  • Private transfers can be arranged from David to Boquete (approximately $30-$50 per person).

Day 5: Boquete Adventures

  • Morning: Take a guided hike in the Volcán Barú National Park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. ($40-$60 per person)
  • Afternoon: Visit a local coffee plantation, learning about the production process and sampling some of the best coffee in the world.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening in Boquete, exploring its picturesque streets and cafes.

Things to Know:

  • Boquete is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like hiking, rafting, and zip-lining available.
  • The town has a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and rejuvenate.

Day 6: Return to Panama City

  • Morning: Transfer back to David (approximately $30-$50 per person) and fly back to Panama City (approximately $100-$150 per person)
  • Afternoon: Spend your last day in Panama exploring the city, visiting any attractions you may have missed earlier.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Panama City’s top restaurants, celebrating an unforgettable trip to Panama.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and EU nations, 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.

Other Things to Know:

  • Panama is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
  • The local currency is the Panamanian balboa (B/), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also widely accepted.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, nature, and adventure, giving you a comprehensive experience of Panama’s beauty and charm. Enjoy your trip!