Panama Vacations

Panama's culture is a rich mosaic of African, American Indian, North American, and Spanish influences, reflected in its traditional arts, music, religion, sports, and cuisine. Music from Panama resonates throughout Latin America, and the country is celebrated for its numerous festivals.

The cosmopolitan urban culture around the Panama Canal offers a stark contrast to the rural savannas' Hispanic traditions, where cattle ranching and horsemanship prevail. Indigenous territories contribute unique elements like the Kuna's vibrant molas and storytelling traditions, enriching Panama's cultural tapestry.

Panama City's historic district, with its colonial architecture dating back to the 17th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the Caribbean coastal fortifications of Portobelo and San Lorenzo.

Daily life reflects a blend of influences from the Americas, the Caribbean, and beyond, with a cuisine that favours rice, beans, corn, seafood, and tropical produce. Arroz con pollo and sancocho are national favourites, spiced with chiles and culantro, showcasing the country's gastronomic diversity.

Entertainment in Panama draws from its multicultural heritage, favouring Caribbean rhythms and North American rock over traditional Hispanic music. Television reflects a similar diversity, with Mexican and Venezuelan soap operas alongside American shows.

In the arts, Panama has seen a rise in national expression, with internationally recognized poets, writers, and artists, as well as a rich body of Native American literature, particularly from the Kuna people. This cultural richness makes Panama a fascinating destination for travellers seeking a blend of tradition and modernity.

Panama offers diverse experiences throughout the year, each season with its unique charm:

Dry Season Delights (January - mid-April):

Best for clear skies and outdoor activities.

Notable events include the Boquete Flower and Coffee Festival, the Panama Jazz Festival in January, and vibrant carnival celebrations in March.

The Cultural Spring (April):

Transition period with rising temperatures and local festivities.

Celebrate Easter and the Orchid Festival in Boquete.

Lush Summer (May-August):

Beginnings of the rainy season, perfect for rafting.

Corpus Christi is celebrated, featuring the "diablicos sucios" dance.

Vibrant Autumns (September - November):

Less crowded, ideal for festival enthusiasts.

Independence Day celebrations in November are a highlight.

For those who prefer quieter times, late November to early December is suggested, when rainforests are lush and the tourist footprint is lighter.

Here's an overview of everything you need to know before your Panama vacation:

Arrival: Fly into Tocumen International Airport or consider a bus or ferry from neighbouring countries.

Guided Tours: Book with local guides for authentic experiences.

Accommodation: Consider staying in diverse accommodations, from Panama City's vibrant scene to overwater bungalows in Bocas del Toro,​ if they fall within your budget.

Local Cuisine: Don't miss traditional dishes like Sanchocho and Ropa Vieja.

Language: Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance interactions​

Transportation: Use buses for budget-friendly travel or rent a car for flexibility.

Island Hopping: Explore the San Blas Islands and Bocas del Toro​​​

Wildlife: Experience Panama's rich biodiversity, including a multitude of bird species.

Hiking: Tackle the trails of El Valle de Anton and chase waterfalls in Chiriqui Province.

National Parks: Visit parks like Baru Volcano and Coiba National Park for varied ecosystems.

Festivals: Try to participate in vibrant festivals and carnivals like Las Tablas Carnival.

Coffee: Taste the famous Geisha coffee from the Chiriqui highlands.

Packing: Pack light, but be prepared for both hot weather and rain, and include a decent pair of hiking boots.

Safety: Panama is generally safe, but as with all travel, remain aware of your surroundings.

Currency: US Dollars are widely accepted but carry cash, especially in rural areas​

During Panama tours, one embarks on a gastronomic journey as diverse as its landscape.

Ceviche: Begin with Panama’s fresh ceviche, a citrus-cured seafood dish often found in seaside stalls and upscale eateries alike. With Panama’s ample coastline, the fish and seafood are exceptionally fresh.

Sancocho: Often hailed as Panama’s national dish, this hearty chicken stew flavoured with cilantro (culantro), yam, and plantains provides a comforting glimpse into the soul of Panamanian cuisine.

Ropa Vieja: This savoury dish of shredded beef in tomato sauce, served with rice, is a legacy of Panama’s cultural melting pot, drawing influences from the Caribbean to the Iberian Peninsula.

Arroz con Pollo: A staple at family gatherings, this flavorful rice and chicken dish, rich with spices and vegetables, mirrors Panama’s colourful culinary scene.

Tamales: A traditional Latin American fare, Panamanian tamales are wrapped in banana leaves and filled with corn-based dough, meat, and spices, offering a taste of Panama's indigenous roots.

Patacones: These twice-fried green plantains are a crispy, salty snack or side dish that perfectly complements the country’s rich main courses.

Empanadas: These fried or baked pastries are stuffed with a variety of fillings, from cheese to meat, and are a perfect on-the-go snack to fuel your explorations.

Panamanian Coffee: The highlands of Chiriquí produce some of the world’s finest coffee. The Geisha variety, in particular, is highly sought after for its aromatic and floral notes.

Seco Herrerano: Panama’s national spirit, a clear liquor distilled from sugarcane, is often enjoyed with milk or as part of a mixed drink.

Chicha Fuerte: A traditional fermented corn drink that offers an authentic taste of Panama’s indigenous heritage.

Ron Abuelo: A top-notch Panamanian rum that’s smooth enough to sip neat or mixed in a tropical cocktail.