Panama 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Panama

Day 1: Arrival & Panama City (1 hour from Tocumen International Airport)

  1. Arriving in Panama: Upon your arrival at Tocumen International Airport, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months remaining before its expiration date for most nationalities. Check visa requirements for your country if needed.

  2. Panama City Exploration: Visit the Panama Canal (Miraflores Locks Visitor Center), Casco Viejo (Old Quarter), and Panama Viejo ruins. Don’t forget to taste local delicacies like Sancocho, Ceviche, and Empanadas.

Day 2: Soak in the Natural Beauty of Panama City & Surroundings

  1. Ancon Hill: Hike up Ancon Hill for a beautiful panoramic view of the city and Pacific Ocean.

  2. Metro Park: Explore this urban rainforest with various trails, bridges, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

  3. Gamboa Area & Soberania National Park: Take a boat tour to see wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and caimans in their natural habitat.

Day 3: Boquete (4-hour drive or 1-hour flight from Panama City)

  1. Arriving in Boquete: This charming town is perfect for adventure lovers. You can reach it by road or take a short flight from Albrook Airport in Panama City.

  2. La Fortuna Waterfall: Spend your day hiking to La Fortuna Waterfall, enjoying the beautiful scenery and taking a refreshing dip.

  3. Quetzal Trail: If you’re lucky, you might spot the Resplendent Quetzal, one of the most beautiful birds in the world.

Day 4: Bocas del Toro (3-hour drive or 1-hour flight from Boquete)

  1. Arriving in Bocas del Toro: This archipelago is famous for its vibrant Caribbean vibe, beautiful beaches, and diverse marine life.

  2. Isla Colón: Explore the main island, visit the town of Bocas Town, and enjoy some local seafood.

  3. Zapatilla Keys: Take a boat tour to these pristine islands with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach.

Day 5: Santa Catalina (4-hour drive from Bocas del Toro)

  1. Arriving in Santa Catalina: Famous as a gateway for Coiba National Park, this small fishing village offers stunning coastal views and world-class surfing opportunities.

  2. Surfing & Snorkeling: Spend your day enjoying the waters of Santa Catalina. If you’re not into surfing, you can explore nearby islands or relax on the beach.

  3. Coiba National Park: For a more adventurous experience, take a boat tour to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse marine life and opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling.