TRAVEL TO PANAMA
Panama can offer more than just a canal
Panama bridges continents & oceans with vibrant rainforests, a bustling modern capital, and a unique geometry where you can watch the sunrise over the Pacific.
Island hopping in a beach paradise
Panama is the ultimate bucket-list destination, especially for active backpackers and beach bums.
The country is packed with hidden islands, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs just waiting to be explored. A trip here gives you a taste of that laid-back Caribbean culture and the slow, blissful lifestyle that comes with it! As the southernmost country in Central America, Panama lets you experience a tropical Caribbean vibe that is completely different from the Pacific side. You have to go Island hopping around the San Blas Islands, experience the epic nightlife and annual festivals in Panama City and party like a local during Mardi Gras in Peninsula de Azuero.
Island hopping in San Blas
What to do in Panama?
Surf, spanish lessons or maybe island hopping?
Need help planning your trip to Panama?
Our travel experts can help you refine your ideas, pick the right destinations and plan your trip from start to finish.
Bocas del Toro & San Blas
Lush Jungles and Stunning Beaches
The Bocas del Toro archipelago is a massive magnet for travelers, located right near the Costa Rican border. It consists of six vibrant, green islands and a breathtaking underwater national park called Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos. Since Panama is still blissfully free from mass tourism, you won't find any massive, soul-less commercial hotel chains here. The vibe is super laid-back, and all the islands are covered in lush jungle and picture-perfect beaches.
Isla Colón is the main hub and the most developed island. If you’re looking for a chiller, more low-key spot, we highly recommend heading over to neighboring Isla Carenero—famous for being the historical pit-stop where Christopher Columbus repaired his ships.
Most travelers agree: your Panama trip isn’t complete without hitting up San Blas. If tropical beaches are what drew you to Panama in the first place, island hopping here is a no-brainer. Scattered off Panama’s Caribbean coast, you’ll find 365 tiny paradise islands. This is the definition of a postcard-perfect beach: swaying palm trees, crystal-clear water, sunken shipwrecks, vibrant coral reefs, and powdery white sand everywhere you look. Aside from tanning, swimming, and peak relaxation, these islands serve up the freshest, most locally sourced seafood you can get.
Lazy days on the beach in Bocas del Toro
Why choose KILROY for your next trip
30+ years of expertise
For more than three decades, we’ve helped travellers discover the world. Our specialist knowledge and trusted global partners help you explore with confidence.
Personal travel advice
One dedicated travel expert who understands your plans, preferences, and goals. From first idea to journey home, they’ll guide you every step of the way.
24/7 support, wherever you are
If the unexpected happens, emergency support is always within reach. Wherever you are and whenever you need us, a KILROY expert is ready to help you.
The KILROY effect
The best trips don’t end when you get home. We create journeys filled with experiences, stories, and memories that stay with you long after the adventure ends.
Activities & Adventures in Panama
While Panama works for everyone, it is literally custom-built for backpackers chasing adventure and epic experiences.
Lounging in a hammock between swaying palms is definitely chill, but a trip to Panama serves up paradise beaches plus so much more. Think island hopping, surfing, rainforest treks, insane wildlife, snorkeling, diving, and whitewater rafting. The country’s only volcano is located in Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, where you can embark on epic treks surrounded by mind-blowing scenery. If you're into camping, Cerro Punta, Boquete, and El Valle offer the ultimate conditions. Looking for next-level nature and a massive adrenaline rush? Head to the fertile province of Chiriquí for some wild white-water rafting. The rivers are long, winding through lush rainforests and past stunning waterfalls. Chiriquí is an eco-traveler’s absolute dream.
Sloth hiding in a tree
Traveling Classroom
If you want to travel and learn Spanish alongside fellow backpackers - Travelling Classroom is the way to go.
Instead of sitting in a boring, traditional classroom, your lessons might take place right on the beach or out in nature with a local teacher. Plus, you get to experience the best of both Costa Rica and Panama in just one month!
Spanish Courses in Panama City
Curious about studying Spanish in Panama? Whether you want to make it part of a longer backpacking trip or you're planning a dedicated journey to sharpen your language skills, this is the perfect move. It’s an amazing way to learn the language while immersing yourself in a new culture and meeting awesome new people.
Spanish classes
Frequently asked questions
The prime time to hit up Panama is between December and April, during the dry season. It rains pretty much year-round on the Caribbean side, but don’t sweat it—the showers are usually super short and just leave the jungle looking even fresher. The rainfall dips a bit around February–March and September–October. If trekking is your main goal, aim for the dry season, while white-water rafting in Chiriquí is at its absolute best from May to December.
To get to Bocas del Toro, you can grab a quick 30-minute taxi from Guabito (near the Costa Rican border) to Changuinola. From there, daily water taxis will take you straight out to the islands. Inside Panama City, there's a bustling bus network, including the famous "diablos rojos" (red devils). For an unforgettable scenic route, you can also take the train from Panama City to Colón, offering incredible views along the way.
If you're on the hunt for epic waves, Panama has some insanely cool surf spots with big, powerful breaks and Santa Catalina (Boca Chica area) should definitely be at the top of your list.
For underwater explorers, Parque Nacional de Chiriquí features 25 islands and 19 coral reefs perfect for diving and snorkeling. Don't miss the protected Isla Boca Brava, where sea turtles lay their eggs and monkeys race you through the jungle trails.
