Sample the best of the best — Panama's top destinations will ensure that you don't miss out on surfing in Playa Venao or the mountain town of El Valle de Anton.

Unsurprisingly, some of Panama's top things to do are outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and birdwatching, but history buffs and cultural enthusiasts won't be disappointed, because the country offers something for everyone.

Top Destinations

If all you know about Panama is its world famous canal, get ready to discover the adventure destination that's been right under your nose. Panama adventure travel is exciting and will take you across a variety of terrain.

Hike and raft in Boquete, windsurf in Punta Chame  —  surf, snorkel, zip line, and more! Panama's adventure activities offer something for everyone, which makes this a great destination for groups.

Adventures

Orchids, butterflies, toucans, sloths...these are just some of Panama's natural wonders. Why read about them when you can see them in real life in Gamboa and Portobelo?

Panama's nature tours are a wonderful opportunity to experience a world that you're used to seeing on "BBC" documentaries or in the pages in "National Geographic." Nature is real, and it's thriving in Panama.

Nature

From uncrowded beaches on the tiny island of Isla Boca Brava to the extremely remote jungles of Santa Cruz de Cana — this is Panama off the beaten path.

If you fancy yourself an adventurous or authentic traveller, then exploring Panama off the beaten path will ensure you experience the islands, towns, people, and wildlife missed by visitors who stick exclusively to Panama's top destinations.

Off the Beaten Path

To whom does a country's land truly belong to? That's a question to ponder when you learn about Panama's people and Panama's culture when you visit Panama's indigenous population.

From El Porvenir to Mogue, these are the destinations that will give you a truly authentic experience, and a unique insight into Panamanian culture.

Indigenous Culture

Time to head for Panama's beaches! From surfing in Playa El Mar to exploring the tide pools of Punta Burica, Panama's beaches offer something for adrenaline junkies and low-key explorers alike.

The best beaches in Panama are the ones which fulfil your interests the most, so use this list to discover your own brand of fun in the sun.

Beaches

Need a little rest and relaxation on your next getaway? Panama's island vacations offer all this and more. Snorkel or dive from Solarte Island. Learn how the Pearl Islands were named by a man who never reached them.

Enjoy lavish resorts, laid-back beach towns, private islands, deserted islands, and more. Whether you want to play volleyball or experience a true moment 'all to yourself,' Panama's islands are at your disposal.

Islands

See keel-billed toucans in Gamboa and the three-toed sloths of the Punta Patiño Nature Reserve. Panama's rainforests are full of beauty and natural wonders.

If you're an adventurous traveler, a Panama rainforest tour is a great way to explore the Darién — an incredible, and notoriously difficult to navigate, piece of jungle.

Rainforests

Love rugged treks and amazing views? Then you'll want to spend your next vacation exploring Panama's mountains.

In Boquete, you can hike, birdwatch, and raft. Meanwhile, Volcán is home to a nearby national park and the archaeological site of Sitio Barriles.

Mountains

Time to hang ten from the beaches of Central America. Surfing in Panama makes for a fun and active vacation, so pick your skill level and your beach.

The great thing about Panama's surf spots is that there's a wave for everyone — from beginner to professional. The sun is shining on the sands of Playa Venao and Santa Catalina, the only thing missing is you!

Surfing

From the cosmopolitan hub of Panama City to the colourful and funky vibe of Bocas Town, Panama's cities are diverse.

Explore everything from charming villages to up-and-coming destinations, because there's no shortage of Panama cities to visit.

Cities

It's time to get the party started! Panama's nightlife has something to offer you, regardless of how you prefer to spend your time after the sun sets.

Enjoy a glass of wine at an upscale establishment in Panama City or grab a beer in Bocas Town. Dance all night or chat until sunrise — this is Panama's nightlife your way.

Nightlife

Pedasi

Chitré

Playa Venao

Playa Cambutal

Las Tablas

Bocas Town

Isla Carenero

Isla Colón

Isla Bastimentos

Isla Popa

Playa Coronado

Playa Farallón

El Valle de Anton

Playa Blanca

Punta Chame

Armila

Santa Catalina

David

Isla Boca Brava

Boca Chica

Las Lajas

Panama City

Isla Contadora

Gamboa

Playa Bonita

Casco Viejo

Boquete

Ailigandi

Guanidup Island

Sapibenega Island

Yandup Island

Achutupu Island

Gulf of Panama and Canal Zone

Western Highlands

The Azuero Peninsula 

Valle de Anton

Central Panama

Bocas Village

Bocas del Toro Province

Isla Contadora 

Isla Contadora Archipelago Perlas

Panama’s small size and varied landscapes makes it an ideal place for adventurous activities. These activities are safe, fun, and typically suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Travelers to Panama can enjoy rafting, zip lining, horseback riding, ocean kayaking, scuba diving, and ATV riding. Qualified, professional guides lead the tours and ensure that travelers have a safe and memorable experience.

Adventure

Panama has spectacular natural areas—there are massive forests, extensive coral reefs, mangrove wetlands, and all manner of creatures within the country’s borders. These tours bring travelers face-to-face (or face-to-fin) with the animals and plants that populate the country. They include hikes with naturalist guides, bird watching expeditions, mangrove tours, turtle nesting, marine mammal observation, and night hikes.

As the land bridge between Central America and South America, Panama borders both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Its coastline stretches some 1,550 miles (2,490 km) and includes a diverse sampling of beaches and islands. Marine tours allow travelers to enjoy the ocean in a variety of ways – swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, sea kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and marine mammal observation. These tours combine the spray of the sea with the rays of the sun and expose travelers to some seriously beautiful areas. You’ll also have the chance to spot a number of marine creatures, including tropical fish, dolphins, manta rays, and whales.

Marine

Culture runs deep in Panama. With historic ruins, lively markets and seven indigenous groups, travelers won’t have any trouble experiencing Panama’s strong cultural dimensions. These tours bring visitors into close contact with the heart of Panamanian culture—they include visits to coffee plantations, historic forts, museums, performing arts centers, and indigenous villages. They are a great way to get a feel for where Panama has been and where it’s going.