Lakes of Panama
PanamaPanama has a few lakes that travelers can visit, the most notable of which are Lake Gatún and Lake Bayano. Lake Gatún is an artificial lake that forms an integral, 21-mile (33-km) section of the Panama Canal. It’s the largest body of water in Panama and has islands that boast a diverse range of plants and animals. Visiting this lake while exploring the Panama Canal is a top activity of this region. Lake Bayano is located in the western Darién. This artificial lake sees few visitors but has good opportunities for exploring caves and going bird watching.
Panama Highlights
A curated look at the best Panama has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.
Lagunas de Volcan
The Lagunas de Volcán are two wetland lakes set outside the town of Volcán in Panama’s western highlands. The wetlands are protected and, at almost 4,000 feet (1,200 m), the highest in Panama.
Explore DestinationLake Bayano
Lake Bayano is a large artificial lake in the western Darién. The spooky (but beautiful) caves that lie along one side of the lake are the principal attraction for most visitors.
Explore DestinationLake Gatun
Lake Gatún is an artificial lake in Panama. Set to the south of Colón, this 163 square mile(422 square kilometer) lake is the largest body of water in Panama. In fact, when Lake Gatún was first created it was the largest man-made lake in the world. The lake forms an integral, 21-mile (33-km) section of the Panama Canal—ships that transit the canal pass through it en route to the Atlantic Ocean.
Explore DestinationFeatured Panama Trips
Browse our handpicked selection of Panama itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.
A Beautiful Vacation Beyond Our Expectations
It was a beautiful vacation.
A Spring Surf and Sun Getaway
Beautiful place. Everyone we interacted with was so helpful, kind, and patient. They made us feel at home.
A Birding Journey in The Tropics
Grab your binoculars and your guidebook! You're about to check a variety of beautiful birds off of your list in the rainforests and cloud forests of Panama.
Exploring Panama at The Pace of You
Take yourself on a grand getaway in paradise full of Caribbean cuisine, cultural exchanges, and exciting adventures. It’s as simple as booking this Signature Trip to Panama.
A 'Friend-Ship' Sails to Panama
From wild nights in Panama city to beaches and brews in Bocas del Toro, awesome adventures and amazing memories are waiting for you and your friends in Panama.
Canal, Beach, & Nature = Family Fun
This vacation, do a little of everything when you explore the city, forest, and beach on this awesome family getaway to Panama. Nature and knowledge await you.
Coming Solo, Leaving with Memories
Walk through local markets; go on long hikes; soak in a hot spring; this is your vacation, your way. Explore Panama at your own pace with this spectacular getaway for one.
A 'Best Of' Panama Family Adventure
This family adventure is a trip to paradise complete with magical forests, stunning beaches, marine wildlife, vibrant cities, and memories waiting to be made. Welcome to Panama.
Exploring Panama Together
This vacation, learn about the vibrant country of Panama as you explore its cities, forests, and even island beaches first hand. Go somewhere new –– together.
Traveler's Secret Paradise: Panama
You and your friends are about to head for one of Central America’s best kept secrets. Beyond the famous canal, Panama's city and beaches offer plenty of cool times on hot nights.
Panama: A Soulmate's Journey
Reconnect with the person you love the most when you go on an amazing adventure –– from cosmopolitan cities, to cloud forests, and an island beach, see all of Panama.
Our Adventure-Loving Trip
We have always lived by the beach, so we were more interested in the city, history, culture, food, and non-beach related outdoor activities for this trip. We were ready for adventure, and Boquete in Panama had it all!
We Had the Ultimate Adventure
I recommend Anywhere.com all the time. Loved the destinations and experiences we had in Panama. Panama is a hidden gem.
We Went from Coast to Highlands
I have used Anywhere 3 times now. There is room for improvement but I would recommend.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
