Panama

Our Rating:

★★★★★

Panama: from cloud forest castles to island dreams

Panama isn’t just a stop along the way—it’s a place to explore, whether you’re surfing, hiking, or simply taking your time to get to know it. This narrow country, with one foot in the Pacific and the other in the Caribbean, stitches together city buzz, surf towns, misty mountains, and island time into a rhythm that makes it hard to leave.

Currency: US Dollar

Language: Spanish

Time Zone: GMT-5

Best time of year to visit

Best weather conditions from December to April

Destinations

Panama: from cloud forest castles to island dreams
Boquete: cloud forests and volcán Barú
Panama City: from old town charm to modern high-rises
Playa Venao: surf, sand, and sunsets
San Blas Islands: Panama’s postcard paradise
Valle Hornito: Hidden in the Cloud Forest
Discover your next Destination

Nature

Boquete: cloud forests and volcán Barú

From the beach, the highlands call. Cooler temperatures, cloud forests, and Panama’s highest peak—Volcán Barú—make Boquete a natural next stop.

Stay at Bambuda Castle
Bambuda Castle is a literal castle turned hostel perched on a hill, complete with panoramic views, a hot tub, and a waterslide.

Tip: from here, you can hike to the summit of Volcán Barú on an overnight trek, reaching the top in time for sunrise. On clear mornings, you’ll see both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans from the same spot. It’s tough but rewarding, and you’ll sleep well after.

City

Panama City: from old town charm to modern high-rises

The skyline surprises most first-timers—modern high-rises, rooftop bars, and a metro system that works well. But it’s Casco Viejo, the city’s old quarter, that tends to win people over. The area features pastel-colored buildings, lively plazas, and bay views at sunset, making it a convenient spot to explore and spend time.

Stay at Viajero Casco Viejo
For a social stay in a fantastic neighbourhood, Viajero Casco hits the mark. Right in Casco Viejo, its rooftop terrace is perfect for sunset drinks, city views, and meeting fellow travellers.

Sea

Playa Venao: surf, sand, and sunsets

On the Pacific coast, Playa Venao is a laid-back surf beach that balances just the right amount of buzz. Long rides for beginners and clean breaks for more advanced surfers make it a favorite surf destination.

Stay at Selina Playa Venao
Selina Playa Vanao is a solid bet—stylish dorms and privates, coworking spaces and direct beach access. It’s the kind of place where morning breakfast is followed by a surf session or a game of beach volleyball, and maybe a bonfire after dark. Even if you don’t surf, Venao is an easy place to just hang out and chill.

Nature

San Blas Islands: Panama’s postcard paradise

When Panama city starts to feel too polished, trade skyscrapers for palm trees and head to the San Blas Islands. A few hours by jeep and boat brings you into Guna Yala territory—hundreds of postcard-perfect islands dotted across impossibly clear waters. From day trips from Panama City to trips of 2-3 nights, sleeping in simple beach huts or tents.

Nature

Valle Hornito: Hidden in the Cloud Forest

Stay at Lost & Found Hostel
Tucked into the cloud forests of Valle Hornito, Lost & Found Hostel is one of those places that starts to feel like a secret club in the middle of nowhere. You’ll need to hike up from the road to reach it, and the views are worth every step. Hidden jungle trails, communal dinners, and panoramic mountain views make the whole stay feel a bit surreal.