Panama Mountains
PanamaLooking for excitement off the beach? Look no further than Panama's mountain ranges! The Cordillera Central, or Central Mountain Range, runs down the middle of Panama, forming the Continental Divide and separating the country's Pacific and Caribbean coasts. In Panama's mountain destinations, you will enjoy ample access to mountains, rivers, and forests.
Start your day with some early morning birdwatching in Volcán — Panama is home to toucans, harpy eagles, tanagers, and more. Go horseback riding in El Valle de Anton or explore hiking trails. Head to San Cristobal for both outdoor adventure and the chance to spy dolphins. Bring your favourite hiking boots because you'll have a great time hoofing it; additionally, the cool climate of Panama's mountain destinations makes them a nice alternative to the country’s hotter coastal areas.
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.
Boquete
The small town of Boquete sits in the highlands of Panama’s Chiriquí province, snugly fitted into a lush valley and surrounded by towering mountains, gushing streams, and abundant coffee farms. Though once a sleepy mountain town forgotten by time, Boquete is beginning to see more and more tourists these days, and for good reason – its natural beauty is astounding and its range of activities spectacular. Panama’s only volcano, Volcán Barú, lies only 9 km away, providing visitors with excellent hiking, nature viewing, and camping. Boquete’s other attractions include white-water rafting, canopy tours, hot springs, botanical gardens, and more.
Explore DestinationEl Valle de Anton
Nestled into the valley of an extinct volcano, El Valle is a pleasant highland town in central Panama. Its 600 meters above sea level make it much cooler than the lowlands, and its wide range of activities – including canopy tours, hot springs, and a bustling Sunday market – attract both Panamanians and foreigners alike.
Explore DestinationVolcán
The small town of Volcán is located in Panama’s western highlands along the west side of the Barú Volcano. The town itself is unremarkable but is close to several of the region’s best outdoor areas.
Explore DestinationSan Cristobal Island
San Cristóbal Island is often overlooked by tourists but its rich marine wildlife and well preserved Indian villages make it a worth the trip if you have the time.
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.

Insider-led Panama 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 Panama 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.




