Lakes of Panama

Panama

Panama 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.

Lakes of Panama
Destinations

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

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 Destination
Lake Bayano

Lake 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 Destination
Lake Gatun

Lake 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 Destination
Trips to inspire

Featured 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.

9 days | $$

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.

Canal, Beach, & Nature = Family Fun
12 days | $$

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!

Our Adventure-Loving Trip
8 days | $$$

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.

A 'Friend-Ship' Sails to Panama
9 days | $

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.

A 'Best Of' Panama Family Adventure
18 days | $$$

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 Had the Ultimate Adventure
8 days | $

Family Road Trip and Island Adventure

Planning a family trip for twelve is not easy, but thanks to Anywhere.com, we got to experience the full flavor of Panama. Panama City is a wonderful destination, and we made some lasting memories.

Family Road Trip and Island Adventure
9 days | $

Our Journey Together in Panama

It was an amazing trip all in all

Our Journey Together in Panama
13 days | $$$

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.

A Birding Journey in The Tropics
29 days | $

We Explored All of Panama

Still needs some road repair, but overall progress is being made rapidly.

We Explored All of Panama
11 days | $$$

Our Excellent Journey

You did an excellent job planning and monitoring our trip. Thank you.

Our Excellent Journey
23 days | $$$

No Joke. We Did it All!

We spent almost 23 days exploring all over — from Panama City to Isla Carenero, Boquete, Boca Chica, Santa Catalina...we did it all.

No Joke. We Did it All!
9 days | $$$

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.

Panama: A Soulmate's Journey
9 days | $$

A Beautiful Vacation Beyond Our Expectations

It was a beautiful vacation.

A Beautiful Vacation Beyond Our Expectations
9 days | $$

City, Beach, and Mountain Road Trip

From Panama City, Playa Blanca, and Boquete, to El Valle de Anton, we experience all the different terrains of Panama. We had a great time and look forward to exploring more of Central America.

City, Beach, and Mountain Road Trip
8 days | $$

An Unforgettable City & Island Escape

Panama is a lovely country. We thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing pace and the beautiful environment of Isla Bastimentos. This tropical getaway is just what we needed in our busy schedule.

An Unforgettable City & Island Escape