see all of panama in 2 weeks
Panama itinerary
Created by:
itinerary-hub
Published on:
Sept. 14, 2020
14 days
1787 km
7 steps
This 2 week loop starting and finishing in the capital, Panama City, will guide you past amazing beaches, unspoiled nature and the picture perfect San Blas Islands.
Step 1: Panama City
2 days recommended
Panama City
Panama City, Panama's thriving capital, is a dynamic metropolis where modern skyscrapers coexist with colonial architecture, lively marketplaces, and historic districts. Panama City, located at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, is a melting pot of cultures and influences, reflecting its long history as a major crossroads for trade and business. Visitors to Panama City are lured to its cosmopolitan environment, gorgeous shoreline, and diversified culinary scene, which provide a compelling combination of urban attractions and natural beauty.
The city's skyline is dominated by sleek high-rises and renowned monuments like the towering Trump Ocean Club and the F&F Tower, which has a distinctive sail-like shape. Amidst the modernity, Panama City's historic section, Casco Viejo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its picturesque cobblestone walkways, colorful colonial houses, and old churches. Visitors can explore centuries-old plazas, boutique stores, and art galleries, as well as enjoy Panamanian cuisine at local restaurants and cafes. Beyond its historic heart, Panama City has a vibrant nightlife scene, upmarket shopping districts, and options for outdoor recreation along its picturesque waterfront promenades and adjacent rainforest reserves.
The City provides a riveting blend of history, culture, and cosmopolitanism, whether you're visiting its historic monuments, enjoying in gastronomic pleasures, or taking in panoramic vistas from skyscraper roofs.
-
Panama City Food Tour
Take a culinary journey around Panama City's different districts, trying traditional Panamanian cuisines, street food, and international cuisine. Take a guided culinary tour to explore local restaurants, markets, and hidden gems, while sampling delicacies like ceviche, empanadas, and tropical fruits along the way. Learn about Panama's culinary legacy and cultural influences while enjoying great sensations and visiting the city's bustling gastronomy scene. A cuisine tour is an enjoyable way to discover Panama City's cultural richness and culinary wonders.
-
Visit the Biomuseo
Experience Panama's biodiversity and natural history at the Biomuseo, an architectural marvel conceived by famous architect Frank Gehry. Explore interactive displays that showcase Panama's distinct ecosystems, diversified animals, and geological formations, as well as the country's position as a North-South America bridge. The Biomuseo provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages, with breathtaking views of Panama City's cityscape and Panama Bay from its waterfront location.
-
Panoramic Views from Ancon Hil
Hike or drive to the summit of Ancon Hill, which is just minutes from Panama City's center, for panoramic views of the city skyline, Panama Canal, and surrounding rainforest. Enjoy stunning views from the observation deck, where you can watch ships enter the canal, observe the cityscape, and take in the lush greenery of the surrounding Metropolitan Natural Park. Ancon Hill is a popular destination for photographers and environment lovers looking to get a bird's-eye view of Panama City and its surrounds.
-
Explore Casco Viejo (Panama Old Town)
Explore the historic streets of Casco Viejo, Panama City's lovely colonial district. Admire the magnificently preserved Spanish colonial architecture, which includes majestic churches, scenic plazas, and colorful buildings with exquisite balconies. Visit historic landmarks like the Panama Canal Museum, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Plaza de Francia to experience the neighborhood's colorful atmosphere. Casco Viejo is also a culinary destination, with hip restaurants, rooftop bars, and artisanal shops to explore.
-
Boat Tour on the Panama Canal
A boat excursion departing from Panama City or Gamboa allows you to experience the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal. Cruise the canal's peaceful waterways, going through locks and viewing ships as they navigate the historic route. Learn about the canal's history, operation, and ecological significance while admiring the surrounding rainforest and fauna.
step 1: Panama City
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
128 km / 79 miles
step 2: Anton Valley
Step 2: Anton Valley
2 days recommended
Anton Valley
El Valle de Antón, a quiet oasis tucked within the crater of an extinct volcano, is located in Panama's beautiful countryside. This lovely village has a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty, attracting visitors looking for a relaxing escape from the rush and bustle of city life. El Valle de Antón, surrounded by lush tropical woods, gushing waterfalls, and towering mountains, provides an abundance of outdoor activities and exploring opportunities. Visitors can take spectacular excursions across the valley's varied topography, uncovering secret waterfalls, panoramic views, and unusual rock formations along the way. The valley's temperate climate and rich biodiversity make it a naturalist's paradise, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and botanical investigation.
In addition to its natural wonders, El Valle de Antón has a rich cultural past that dates back millennia. The town is home to indigenous people, whose traditions and customs are kept alive through cultural events, traditional dances, and artisan goods. Visitors can learn about the region's history and culture at the Museum of El Valle de Antón, which displays ancient relics, archeological discoveries, and exhibits on the area's geological significance. The area also has thriving artisan markets, where visitors may browse handmade goods, pottery, and souvenirs manufactured by local artisans. El Valle de Antón provides a genuinely memorable experience for those who want to enjoy the beauty and
-
Vibrant artisan markets
For those seeking a taste of local culture, El Valle de Antón boasts vibrant artisan markets where visitors can browse handmade crafts, pottery, and souvenirs crafted by local artisans. The Sunday Market, in particular, is a must-visit, featuring stalls selling fresh produce, traditional textiles, and artisanal goods. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as fresh fruits, empanadas, and ceviche while enjoying the lively atmosphere of this bustling market.
-
El Valle de Antón: A natural wonderland
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in El Valle de Antón, with hiking trails leading to scenic viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and natural hot springs. The valley's mild climate and rich biodiversity make it a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and botanical exploration abound. Visitors can also embark on horseback riding excursions, zip line adventures, and ATV tours to discover the valley's rugged terrain and pristine landscapes.
-
Victoriano Lorenzo Museum of El Valle de Antón
Visiting places like the El Valle de Antón Museum allows visitors to learn more about the rich cultural legacy of the area. In order to shed light on the region's past, artifacts and exhibitions highlight the history, geology, and indigenous cultures of the area. The area's pre-Columbian occupants can be seen in petroglyphs and rock formations, while nearby archeological sites provide insights into past civilizations.
step 2: Anton Valley
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
265 km / 164 miles
step 3: Santa Catalina
Step 3: Santa Catalina
1 days recommended
Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina is a small beach-side town on the Pacific coast. Santa Catalina is perfect to relax at the beach for some days or to go surfing, fishing or diving.
step 3: Santa Catalina
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
271 km / 168 miles
step 4: Boquete
Step 4: Boquete
3 days recommended
Boquete
Tucked away in the Chiriquí province of Panama, Boquete is a quaint mountain town known for its breathtaking natural landscape, pleasant weather, and outdoor adventure activities. Boquete is a well-liked location for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike since it provides a peaceful getaway from the rush of city life. It is surrounded by thick cloud forests, towering mountains, and fertile valleys. The town itself has a laid-back atmosphere, with charming coffee shops, artisanal markets, and gardens full of vibrant flowers.
-
Boquete coffee tour and tasting
Discover the secrets behind Panama's world-famous coffee on a guided tour of a local coffee plantation. Learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and roasting processes that go into producing some of the finest Arabica beans in the world, and gain insight into the history and cultural significance of coffee in Panama. After the tour, indulge in a coffee tasting session, where you'll have the opportunity to sample freshly brewed cups of specialty coffee and savor the rich flavors and aromas of Panama's prized brew.
-
Hike the Quetzal Trail
One of the most picturesque hiking paths in Boquete is the Quetzal Trail, so lace up your hiking boots and go off on an adventure. This trail, which is named for the elusive Resplendent Quetzal bird that lives in Panama's cloud forests, winds through unspoiled wilderness and provides stunning vistas of mist-covered mountains, green valleys, and tumbling waterfalls. Watch for sightings of rare bird species, vibrant orchids, and other distinctive plants and animals that inhabit this biodiverse area.
-
Hiking to the Lost Waterfalls
Take a breathtaking journey to the Lost Waterfalls, a trio of magnificent waterfalls tucked away in the cloud forest of Boquete. Explore dense jungle vegetation by following designated pathways, carefully navigating wooden bridges and creeks. Admire the breathtaking waterfalls that plunge into glistening pools below, providing cool places to swim or pose for pictures. For those interested in seeing Boquete's unspoiled countryside, hiking to the Lost Waterfalls is an essential experience for photographers and nature lovers.
-
Relaxing at Caldera Hot Springs
Experience the natural thermal pools of Caldera Hot Springs, which are hidden away within Boquete's picturesque surroundings, to relax and revitalize your body and mind. Take a dip in the calming, mineral-rich waters, which are well-known for their restorative and therapeutic qualities. After a day of exploring Boquete's wilderness, the Caldera Hot Springs, surrounded by verdant foliage and peaceful mountain vistas, offer the ideal environment for rest and relaxation.
-
Birdwatching in the Palo Alto Cloud Forest Reserve
Discover the incredible diversity of bird species that inhabit Boquete's Palo Alto Cloud Forest Reserve on a guided birdwatching tour. Armed with binoculars and a knowledgeable guide, venture into the mist-shrouded forest to spot colorful toucans, hummingbirds, and elusive Resplendent Quetzals. With its rich biodiversity and pristine habitats, the Palo Alto Cloud Forest Reserve offers unparalleled birdwatching opportunities for avid birders and nature lovers.
-
Rafting on the Chiriquí Viejo River
Take on the thrilling adventure of whitewater rafting on the Chiriquí Viejo River, which is well-known for its breathtaking scenery and thrilling rapids. Climb aboard a guided rafting trip and make your way through rocky gorges and beautiful tropical scenery as you negotiate through choppy rivers. The Chiriquí Viejo River offers an amazing experience for both nature lovers and thrill-seekers, regardless of expertise level like rafting.
-
Zip-lining through the Cloud Forest
step 4: Boquete
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
188 km / 116 miles
step 5: Bocas del Toro
Step 5: Bocas del Toro
3 days recommended
Bocas del Toro
Located on the Caribbean coast of Panama, Bocas del Toro is a vibrant archipelago known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Comprising several islands and islets, this tropical paradise offers a diverse range of experiences, from laid-back beach days to thrilling water sports adventures. The main island, Isla Colón, serves as the gateway to the archipelago and is home to the bustling town of Bocas del Toro, where visitors can explore colorful streets lined with wooden houses, bustling markets, and lively waterfront bars and restaurants.
-
Snorkeling at Starfish Beach
Just a short boat ride from Bocas Town lies Starfish Beach, a picturesque stretch of coastline known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Grab your snorkel gear and dive into the shallow waters to discover colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, vibrant starfish, and other fascinating sea creatures. With its calm waters and gentle currents, Starfish Beach is the perfect spot for snorkelers of all skill levels to explore the underwater world.
-
Surfing at Bluff Beach
Head to Bluff Beach, located on the eastern side of Isla Colón, for some epic surf sessions. Known for its consistent waves and uncrowded lineup, Bluff Beach offers ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers alike. Rent a board from one of the local surf shops or sign up for a lesson with a qualified instructor to catch some waves and experience the thrill of riding the Caribbean surf.
-
Island Hopping Tour
Set out on an island-hopping journey to discover Bocas del Toro's breathtaking scenery and undiscovered treasures. Take a guided boat excursion to discover beautiful beaches and isolated islands where you may swim, sunbathe, and snorkel all you want. Explore deserted islets encircled by azure waters, immaculate mangrove forests rich with animals, and quiet coves that provide the ideal haven from the bustle of everyday life. You'll discover fresh wonders and make priceless memories at each stop on the island hopping tour in this idyllic tropical setting.
-
Exploring Bastimentos Island
Discover the lush woods, beautiful beaches, and lively culture of Bastimentos Island, one of the largest islands in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, on a day excursion there. Explore the island's thick jungle trails on foot to find undiscovered waterfalls, unusual fauna, and magnificent viewpoints with views of the neighboring islands. Don't pass up the opportunity to explore Old Bank, a quaint community where you may experience the native way of life and dine at waterfront restaurants serving authentic Caribbean cuisine.
-
Mangroves tour in Bocas del Toro
Take a kayaking trip through the mangrove woods that encircle Bocas del Toro to get a close-up look at the distinctive ecosystems of the area. While paddling along serene rivers dotted with tall mangrove trees, keep an eye out for a variety of vibrant bird species, marine life, and other intriguing plant and animal life. Kayaking is a tranquil and immersive approach to see the natural treasures of Bocas del Toro, with the soothing sound of paddles diving into the water and the placid beauty of the mangrove-lined channels drawing the eye.
step 5: Bocas del Toro
Transportation type:
airplane
603 km / 374 miles
Panama City
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
95 km / 59 miles
step 6: Portobelo
Step 6: Portobelo
1 days recommended
Portobelo
Portobelo, which is nowadays a small fishing village, used to be one of Spain’s richest ports between the 16th to 18th century. The remains of the crumbling ruins from this time are scattered inside and outside of town.
step 6: Portobelo
Transportation type:
boat
69 km / 42 miles
step 7: San Blas Islands
Step 7: San Blas Islands
2 days recommended
San Blas Islands
The San Blas Islands of Panama is an archipelago with approximately 365 islands and cays and is famous for its picture perfect beaches and inhabited islands. A part of the islands is inhabited by the indigenous Kuna people.