Lakes of Panama

Lakes of 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.

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The best places to visit in Lakes of Panama

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.

Lake Bayano

Lake Bayano

Lake Bayano is a large artificial lake in the eastern Darién. The spooky (but beautiful) caves that lie along one side of the lake are the principal attraction for most visitors.

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.

Trips to Inspire

Lakes of Panama itineraries from local insiders

Explore hand-picked Lakes of Panama itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.

9 days | $$

A Beautiful Vacation Beyond Our Expectations

It was a beautiful vacation.

A Beautiful Vacation Beyond Our Expectations

Panama

8 days | $$$

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 Spring Surf and Sun Getaway

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

Panama

9 days | $$$

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.

 Coming Solo, Leaving with Memories

Panama

9 days | $$$

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.

Exploring Panama at The Pace of You

Panama

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

Panama

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

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

Panama

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

Panama

7 days | $$$

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.

Traveler's Secret Paradise: Panama

Panama

8 days | $$$

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.

Exploring Panama Together

Panama

9 days | $

Our Journey Together in Panama

It was an amazing trip all in all

Our Journey Together in Panama

Panama

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

Panama

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

Panama

20 days | $$

We Went from Coast to Highlands

I have used Anywhere 3 times now. There is room for improvement but I would recommend.

We Went from Coast to Highlands

Panama