Panama Tours | Best Guides & Tours for 2024

Discover the wonders of Panama, a country brimming with diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unparalleled natural beauty. Our Panama tours invite you to explore beyond the capital city, delving into the heart of this enchanting country. From the lush rainforests of the Darien to the pristine island paradises of San Blas, and from the breathtaking mountain regions of Anton Valley to the charming towns of Boquete, Panama offers an array of experiences for every traveler. With over 2 million visitors annually, Panama's allure lies in its ability to captivate with its cultural richness and biodiversity. Our passionate Tao Travel 365 team has scoured the country for the most beautiful regions and best Panama tours offered to bring unforgettable experiences to our guests. Join us as we unveil the hidden gems of Panama, showcasing the diversity and splendor that this extraordinary country has to offer.

Why Visit Panama

Panama beckons with its diverse attractions and unparalleled natural beauty. From the stunning Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, to the lush rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife, our Panama vacation packages offer a rich tapestry of experiences. Explore the vibrant capital city, Panama City, where modern skyscrapers stand in juxtaposition to colonial architecture. Join one of our Panama tours and venture into the highlands for breathtaking mountain vistas, or bask in the sun on pristine Caribbean and Pacific beaches. Panama's cultural heritage is equally enticing, with indigenous communities, such as the Embera, Wounaan, or Gunas preserving ancient traditions and festivals. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Panama promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and wonder.

Panama stands out not only for its rich cultural heritage and diverse range of experiences but also for its outstanding safety record. According to Statistics, Panama is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Latin America. This makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking peace of mind while exploring its wonders. Whether you're strolling through the historic streets of Panama City, venturing into the lush rainforests, or relaxing on pristine beaches, you can do so with confidence. The country's commitment to safety ensures that visitors can fully immerse themselves in its beauty and culture without worrying about their well-being. Note: Despite Panama’s promising statistics, we urge all of our guests always use common sense and watch their belongings, as petty theft can happen anywhere.

Our Top 5 Panama Tours

Selecting among the treasures of Panama is a challenge, but we've compiled our top Panama tours and Panama vacation packages for you. Our handpicked tours ensure unforgettable memories and new impressions. Let our friendly Tao Travel 365 team create a Panama travel package tailored to your needs, preferences, and schedule.

Anton Valley Day tour 

Escape to Anton Valley, a picturesque mountain town nestled inside an extinct volcano crater. With flower-lined streets and lush green mountains, it's the perfect retreat from the tropical heat. During our Anton Valley Day Tour, explore the India Dormida trail with an expert guide and be rewarded with breathtaking views. Visit the Nispero Zoo and browse the local artisan market to round off your day in the mountains.

San Blas Day Tour – Enjoy freedom in the islands

A perfect day trip from Panama City and a Panama tour that should not be missed is our San Blas Day Tour - Enjoy the freedom of the islands tour. While this is a long day with a 2.5 hour drive each way, we feel that visiting the paradise islands of San Blas is worth every effort. The tour includes a visit to 3 islands and the Natural Pool, snorkel mask, a freshly cooked meal, one drink and roundtrip transportation from Panama City. We have one of the highest rated San Blas Day tours and we proudly say so.

Bocas del Toro Island Hopping Tour

Experience the best of Bocas del Toro on our Zapatilla Island Hopping Day Tour. Greet dolphins at sunrise, then snorkel at Cayo Coral's coral gardens. Explore the iconic Zapatilla cays with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. End at the "Hollywood" natural pool, home to countless starfish. Join us for an unforgettable day in paradise!

Fort Fort San Lorenzo & Panama Canal Tour

Embark on a 6-hour San Lorenzo & Panama Canal tour. Witness colossal ships passing through the Caribbean Agua Clara locks and explore the visitor center. Afterward, venture to the historic Fort San Lorenzo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll be transported back in time to the era of swashbuckling pirates and colonial conquests.

Caribbean Island Hopping & Portobelo Fort

Those who want to mix a little Panama history, monkey encounters and tropical Caribbean beaches of Panama really love our Isla Grande Panama – Caribbean Island Hopping & Portobelo Fort tour. Visit Isla Grande, Isla Mamey, Isla Linton (a.k.a Monkey Island) and the famous Love Tunnel and the historic Portobelo fort on a 9-hour Day Trip from Panama City.

How to Prepare for the Panama Tour

Planning ahead

Planning ahead is essential when visiting Panama, especially during the high season from December to May. We recommend booking Panama tours and accommodations as early as possible, as they tend to fill up quickly. In Panama City, hotels can get booked out fast, so it's wise to secure your stay in advance. While a one-week stay in Panama City allows you to see some highlights, those looking to explore more of the country should plan for at least two weeks. A visit to San Blas, with a stay of two to three nights, is a must for every visitor to Panama. This stunning archipelago offers pristine beaches and a unique cultural experience that shouldn't be missed. Additionally, consider exploring other beautiful areas of Panama, such as the island archipelago of Bocas del Toro, the Caribbean Province Colón with its rich history and the mysterious Darien Jungle, also considered the most important “natural lung” in the Americas.

What to pack for the trip

Panama is situated in the Intertropical Convergence Zone, resulting in variable weather, typically warm with occasional showers. Online weather forecasts may not always be accurate; it's common to see predictions of rain and thunderstorms all week when the weather is actually calm and sunny. When visiting Panama City, packing essentials like shorts, shirts, bathing suits, sandals, sunglasses, and sunscreen is a must. Also, bring a positive attitude and be prepared for cultural differences. Panamanian culture moves at a slower pace, people are often louder, and you may see trash along the roadsides. Those who come with the right expectations often leave with unforgettable memories.

Health & Safety Tips

Panama, the safest country in Central America and a crucial trade hub thanks to the Panama Canal, ensures a secure travel experience. Health conditions are generally excellent, with no reported cases of yellow fever since 1974, polio since 1972, diphtheria since 1981, and cholera since 1993. Clean drinking water is widely accessible, and medical facilities are well-equipped.

Food & Water: Safely enjoy local fruits and vegetables, and confidently drink tap water, especially in developed areas. However, exercise caution with bottled water in less developed regions like Bocas del Toro.

Beach Safety: While Panama's beaches are great for surfing, swimming requires caution. Tourist-friendly spots are safer, but note that lifeguards might not be available.

Insects & Snakes: Protect yourself from insect bites, particularly in rural zones. Mosquitoes aren't a major concern in urban areas. Be cautious around snakes and follow basic safety guidelines.

Do I need a vaccination for Panama?

Before your trip, consult a travel doctor for required vaccinations. Make sure routine vaccinations like tetanus-diphtheria and measles-mumps-rubella are up to date. Depending on where you're going, consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid fever, rabies, and yellow fever. In areas with a risk of malaria, antimalarial medication might be necessary.

Doctors, Clinics, and Hospitals

Panama has excellent medical facilities, especially in larger cities like Panama City and David. You'll find many English-speaking doctors, and pharmacies are well-stocked. For serious medical issues, it's advisable to seek treatment in Panama City.

Is Panama safe to visit?

Panama is generally safe, with friendly locals and low violent crime against tourists. However, be cautious of nonviolent crimes, theft, and scams, especially in tourist areas. Certain areas like Colón, El Chorillo, Curundu, and parts of the Darién near the Colombian border should be avoided. Stay informed about travel advisories and exercise sensible precautions for a safe visit. If in doubt, our friendly Tao Travel 365 team is here to advise you on where to go and what to do.

FAQs about our Panama Tours

What is the best time to travel to Panama?

Panama's dry season, from December to April, provides the best weather with less rain and more sunshine. Nonetheless, Panama is accessible and enjoyable year-round.

How do I get from Tocumen International Airport to the city center?

Tocumen International Airport is a modern and very well organized airport, boasting its newly opened Terminal 2. The airport is approximately 25 minutes away from the city center. Taxis, airport shuttles, and ride-sharing services are readily available for convenient transportation. The metro train will open in 2024, which allows travelers to conveniently reach the city center.

What are the travel requirements for Panama? 

Travel requirements for Panama include a valid passport with at least six months of validity, a return or onward ticket, and proof of funds for the duration of your stay, are usually not enforced.

What are the best beaches in Panama?

The best beach areas in Panama include Bocas del Toro, San Blas Islands, Isla Grande, Pearl Islands, Taboga Island and Santa Catalina, which is renowned for great surfing.

Is Panama expensive?

Panama can be considered moderately expensive, with costs varying depending on where you go and your lifestyle. While some areas, especially tourist hotspots like Panama City, can be pricey, others, like rural regions, offer more budget-friendly options. Overall, it's possible to find accommodation, food, and transportation at various price points, making Panama accessible to different budgets.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Panama?

Yes, it is generally safe to drink tap water in urban areas of Panama, including Panama City and other developed regions. However, in more rural or remote areas, it's advisable to drink bottled water or use water purification methods to avoid any potential health risks.

What is the currency in Panama?

The official currency is the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), but the U.S. Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and used interchangeably.

How can I experience the Panama Canal?

Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center for an up-close view, take a partial or full transit tour of the canal, or explore the Canal Museum for a comprehensive understanding of its history. We recommend booking the Panama City & Panama Canal Miraflores Locks tour.

Where can I experience Panamanian cuisine in Panama?

You can experience authentic Panamanian cuisine in various places across Panama, including local restaurants, street food stalls, and markets. In Panama City, visit the Mercado de Mariscos for fresh seafood dishes like ceviche, or try traditional dishes like sancocho (chicken soup) and arroz con pollo (chicken with rice) at local eateries. Don't miss the chance to taste delicious empanadas, tamales, and carimañolas from street vendors. Additionally, exploring smaller towns and villages will provide opportunities to savor homemade meals prepared with local ingredients, offering a true taste of Panama's culinary culture.

What outdoor activities are available in Panama?

Panama offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. You can explore lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems. Hiking trails in places like Soberanía National Park and El Valle de Antón provide opportunities to discover exotic wildlife and breathtaking scenery. For water adventures, snorkeling and diving in the clear waters of Bocas del Toro and San Blas islands offer vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking are popular along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Zip-lining through the canopy, birdwatching, and boat tours along the Panama Canal and Gatun Lake are also must-try experiences.

To learn some Fun Facts about Panama, visit our article in the Blog section

Conclusion

We're confident that our Panama tours will provide an unforgettable experience. Whether it's a day trip from Panama City or an extended stay in San Blas or Bocas del Toro, we have the ideal vacation package for you. We continue to discover new wonders and create lasting memories with travelers from around the globe, who often return to explore more of Panama's beauty.