Often overlooked by its bigger brother Costa Rica, many tourists miss out on Panama’s extreme beauties. This small country offers everything you could wish for, to give you a few examples: isolated white-sand islands, deep jungle full of animals, volcanoes, party destinations and a stunning old capital. Here is your ultimate itinerary for the best time in Panama, do not miss out!
1. Bocas del Toro
This group of Caribbean islands in front of the Panama coast is one of the top tourist destinations in Central America, and for good reason. Jump in one of the water taxis towards the main island from Almirante and enjoy the amazing views when you approach the archipelago. A good hostel in Bocas town is Cataleya Hostel, it is centrally located and not too expensive. The first few days you want to stay in town and explore the islands from there. Good activities include renting a bike and exploring the island, going to Playa Estrella, partying at the pirate boat, and visiting the beach at Isla Carenero.
Bluff beach, Isla Colon
Afterwards, make your way to Bambuda hostel at Isla Solarte. This is one of the most beautiful hostels in all Central America, with even a slide running from the hostel right into the sea! Beware that you are very isolated, so bring some cheap food from Town if you do not want to eat out in the hostel every night. The upside of this is that nature is all around you, and sloths will be looking down on you from the trees.
View from Bambuda lodge, Isla Solarte
Where to stay: Cataleya Hostel, Bambuda
Explore our blog about Bocas del Toro!
2. Lost and Found hostel
If you are looking for an adventure in the jungle, the Lost and Found hostel is the perfect place for you. This social, active hostel situated between Bocas del Toro and David is an amazing getaway where anyone who comes for 2 days, stays for a week. From here, you can do hikes in the jungle, visit big hidden waterfalls, and swim in the rapids of a river canyon.
It is a 20-minute hike up into the jungle before you get to the hostel
Every night there is a family dinner, where you can meet and socialise with other travelers. For anyone who wants, there is a small party hut that is used frequently to enjoy all night long.
View from Lost and Found
3. Santa Catalina
Next up is Santa Catalina. This sleepy surfing town is full of backpackers that are intrigued by the beach and its waves. But Playa Estero is not the only thing that attracts tourists to this town.
Surfing beach Playa Estero
Namely, Santa Catalina is just a 40-minute boat ride away from Isla Coiba. This island is on the same currents as the Galapagos islands in Ecuador, and therefore its biodiversity is very similar, and special. Come here on a daytrip with your local guide, and snorkel surrounded by turtles, rays and small sharks, before having lunch on the most beautiful beach you will see in your life.
One of the beaches of Isla Coiba
Where to stay: Bodhi Hostel
4. Isla Cañas
This tiny peninsula is the hidden gem of Panama. Unknown by even most Panamanians, you won’t find many tourists here. However, every night something very special happens on the beaches here. Ask a local to help you for a little tip, and walk to the beach together. Big turtles will come up the beach to lay eggs on one side of the beach, while on the other side, small babies are making their way into the ocean at the very same minute. This magnificent once in a lifetime experience is a must for everyone traveling through Panama.
One of the baby turtles at Isla Cañas
We stayed at cabanas de Isla Cañas, a very simple, but lovely place. The hostess even prepared dinner and breakfast for us.
Where to stay: cabanas de isla Cañas
5. Panama City
When visiting Panama, there is no skipping the city. Take your time, because it is fascinating. The stunning skyscrapers making up the famous skyline and the old centre in Casco Antiguo make this city a perfect blend between old and new. Next to this, the Panama canal is around the corner, so you can easily visit this massive place.
A cute park in Casco Antiguo
The Selina hostel has a beautiful roof-terrace which we recommend going to, however, the hostel itself is a bit over-priced. We had an amazing time at Bodhi hostel, which is close to the center yet it feels like you are in the jungle. A good way of spending your day is strolling around in Casco Antiguo, and soaking in the European culture in small boutique cafes like Patisserie Honore.
The impressive skyline of Panama city
Where to stay: Bodhi Hostel
6. San Blas Islands
The San Blas Islands are like heaven on Earth. Made up by hundreds of small islands inhabited by the indigenous Kuna, you will never want to leave this place. We stayed in Isla Ina, this is one of the bigger (you still walk from one side to the other in 10 minutes) islands, with many cabins and opportunities to meet other travelers.
The scenery in the San Blas Islands is heaven-like
The San Blas Islands are the ultimate form of relaxation. Spend your days chilling on the beach, playing beach-volleyball, and snorkeling in the beautiful reefs. For the adventure-seekers, there are some day-trips organised by the Kuna. For instance, you can climb a volcanoe inland, go to an island where ‘La Casa de Papel’ was filmed, help the Kuna fishing, or enjoy snorkeling close to a sandbank a boat ride away.
The chill life at Isla Ina
Three meals and accomodation is provided for around 30 dollars a night, just make sure to bring snacks and extra water, but you can always buy this at the island itself. The freshly fished dinners are amazing.
Where to stay: Isla Ina
Continuing your journey to Northern Colombia? Check out our post here.