Panama 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Panama City

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Try typical dishes like Gallo Pinto (rice and beans) or Chicha (cornmeal drink).
    • Visit the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal, where you can observe massive ships passing through.
    • Explore the modern cityscape from the Ancon Hill viewpoint.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with vibrant streets, colonial architecture, and lively cafes and bars.
    • Visit the Panama Canal Museum to learn about the history and construction of the canal.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner at Causeway Amador, offering beautiful views of the city and the bay.
    • Nightlife: Check out the clubs in Calle Uruguay or Casco Viejo.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in urban areas.
  • The currency is the Balboa (equal in value to the US dollar), but the US dollar is also widely accepted.
  • Tap water in Panama City is safe to drink.

Day 2: Soak up Nature in Soberania National Park

  • Morning:

    • Early morning departure to Soberania National Park (approximately 1 hour drive from Panama City).
    • Take a boat tour on the Chagres River for a chance to spot monkeys, sloths, and various bird species.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Embera Indigenous Village to learn about their culture and crafts.
    • Return to Panama City in the late afternoon.

Evening:

  • Dinner at El Trapiche, a traditional restaurant with live music.

Day 3: Relax on the Pacific Coast (optional: visit Gamboa Rainforest Resort)

  • Morning:

    • Drive to the Pacific coast (approximately 1.5 hours from Panama City).
    • Spend the morning relaxing at Playa Blanca or Playa Venao, both popular for surfing and swimming.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit Gamboa Rainforest Resort for a canopy tour, wildlife observation, or a visit to the Gatun Locks of the Panama Canal.

Things to Know:

  • The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to April).
  • A valid passport is required for all visitors, but no visa is needed for stays under 180 days for citizens of most countries.
  • Taxis are readily available and affordable, or you can use Uber. Buses are also an option for budget travelers.