Panama’s capital is the only city in Central America to have real heft on the global stage, and its mighty canal is undoubtedly an engineering tour de force. Comparatively few visitors venture farther afield, but our specialists have explored Panama’s remoter areas, from rainforests to coastal mangroves. They’ll tell you that other treasures lie in store on this twisting strip of land. They can suggest experiences beyond the city for your holiday to Panama, such as birdwatching around Gatún Lake (home to 385 species), exploring botany with the indigenous Emberá, and snorkelling with turtles in Bocas del Toro.
Elsewhere, as part of a Panama itinerary, you can embrace the café culture and tropical forests of El Valle, and wander among coffee plantations in highland Boquete. Or, escape into another world entirely on the isolated San Blas Islands, home to crystalline waters swimming with eagle rays and nurse sharks.
Suggested tours for Panama
These tours give you a starting point for what your holiday to Panama could entail. Treat them as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you.
Suggested activities for Panama
Whatever your interests, our specialists will build activities into your trip that connect to how you want to experience Panama.
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The Discovery Catamaran The Discovery Catamaran
Panama CityThe Discovery Catamaran
The Discovery is owned and operated by Panama Marine Adventures (PMA) and is a 33-metre purpose built catamaran capable of travelling up to a speed of 18 knots.
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Emberá Indian Village Emberá Indian Village
Panama CityEmberá Indian Village
This tour goes up into the hills outside Panama City to the Chagres River where you transfer with your guide onto an open-top Emberá motorised canoe. You zip along the clear river waters by boat through beautiful scenery to visit the small indigenous community of Emberá Indians in the Chagres National Park.
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Gatún Lake Boat Tour & Rainforest Hike Gatún Lake Boat Tour & Rainforest Hike
Panama CityGatún Lake Boat Tour & Rainforest Hike
Travel along the scenic Gamboa Road to the Soberania National Park for a walk along the Pipeline Road, Plantation Road or El Charco Trail, all of which are fantastic for viewing the unique ecology of the canal watershed.
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Why travel with Audley?
- 100% tailor-made tours
- Fully protected travel
- Established for over 25 years
- 98% of our clients would recommend us
Best time to visit
Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Panama, including information about climate, events and festivals.
Travel advice
Practical tips for travelling to Panama, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest FCDO travel advice.
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Panama in pictures
Our expert guides to travelling in Panama
Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Panama. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Panama at its best.
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Family holidays in Panama Family holidays in Panama
Family holidays in Panama
A Panama family holiday is ideal if your children are aged 10 and over. Considered an off-the-beaten-track destination it offers something a little more adventurous than the typical family trip.
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The best beaches in Mexico and Central America, country by country The best beaches in Mexico and Central America, country by country
The best beaches in Mexico and Central America, country by country
Thinking of including some beach time in your Central America trip? We outline the best beaches in each country and why we’re especially drawn to them — whether it’s for their sand, their snorkelling, or their ambiance.
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Birdwatching in Central America Birdwatching in Central America
Birdwatching in Central America
Tiny in comparison to its sister regions to the north and south, Central America covers just 0.1% of the world's surface, yet it contains an unparalleled level of biodiversity.
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