Travel around Panama in 14 Days: Itinerary (Beaches, Islands & Culture)
Since getting back from my trip to Panama, the number 1 question I get asked is: why Panama? When we think of Central America, the most popular destination is usually Costa Rica. But this Central American country is an underrated trove of cultural wonders, stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant city life. As well as this, it’s a far more affordable option compared to Costa Rica! I had the pleasure of spending 14 in this incredible country and now I’m here to show you how you can experience everything from the booming metropolis of Panama City to the tranquil shores of the San Blas Islands in just two weeks!
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Day 1-2: Panama City
Start your journey in Panama City for a warm welcome to what the country has to offer. Most people only end up in Panama City for a layover before jetting off to their main destination in South America, but this city has its own unique character that is so worth exploring!
Start your adventure with a stroll through Casco Viejo, the city’s historic district. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a mosaic of colourful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant street art. Visit the Plaza Mayor for a glimpse into Panama’s rich history.
If you do anything in Panama City, make sure you add some rooftops to your itinerary.
Did you know…? Panama City is home to the tallest rooftop bar in Latin America. The views from Panaviera are incredible at sunset, when you can get a stunning view of the city’s skyline with the backdrop of a dreamy sunset sky! This was definitely one of my personal Panama City highlights.
And it doesn’t stop there. Here are some more rooftops I visited and enjoyed:
Tantalo Hotel– It’s located in the Casco Viejo (the old town) and is a great option for an evening out as they often have DJs on the rooftop and incredible city views.
W Panama– A good option for a pool day and some lunch!
Tacos La Neta @ Selina Rooftop– These tacos are to die for! Seriously, makee sure you try them when in Panama City. The rooftop at Selina hosts some pretty lively parties with DJs too, so why not enjoy an evening here? I wouldn’t recommend staying at this hostel though! Based on conversations I had with people who actually stayed at their hostel, it can be too loud to get enough sleep and cleanliness wasn’t the best.
Tiempos Coffee @ American Trade Hotel is an elegant, boutique style brunch spots with delicious breakfast options.
In terms of accomodation, you do have so many options from the most expensive 5 star hotels to cheap and cheerful hostels! I stayed at Panama House Bed & Breakfast and was so impressed, I spend an extra night here after my islands trip! It cost around $30 for an ensuite private room, had a friendly hostel vibe and felt like a calm oasis in the middle of a busy city. Be warned the owners have real parrots who acted as my alarm each morning – if you’re not a early riser, this might get on your nerves!
Days 3-6 San Blas Islands
Are you ready to switch off from the world and enter a tropical paradise for a few days? Well, you can do just that at the San Blas Islands. The San Blas Islands or Guna Yala are autonomous islands off the coast of Panama. There are 365 island home to the native Kuna people who live a basic life and preserve their culture, traditions and beloved islands with pride. I can’t speak highly enough of this natural paradise. It’s an off grid experience so it’s important to note that there maybe times you wont be able to shower properly, charge your phone or send a message.
I booked my transportation from Panama City and 2 night stay at thee Inna/Robinson Island with San Blas Dreams. I absolutely loved my experience because the experience felt authentic and the island inhabitants going about their daily island lives there gave me some insight into how simply but truly happily the Kuna people live. There lots more islands you can choose to stay at, the most popular being Pelicano Island, which is famous for featuring in the third season of the Netflix series Money Heist. However, it is quite small and I was happy to just visit it as part of a boat tour which you can buy as part of your package or add on once you arrive at the island.
Days 7-9: Santa Catalina
You’ve experienced the Caribbean of Panama. Now it’s time to head to the Pacific Coast. Santa Catalina is known as a small surf town on the Pacific Coast of Panama. It’s also a great spot to base yourself if you’re in to water sports, sea life and exploring the natural gem, Coiba National Park. The wildlife in Coiba is pretty impressive and the sealife equally so, with the chance to swim with turtles!
If you’re looking to chill and have some pool days here, there are also a few hotels that do day passes. I trialled a day at Villa Coco and found he staff to be super friendly and the pool side beds as comfortable as it gets! One tiny regret I had was not booking accomodation with a sea view or pool. I stayed at the Bodhi Cabins – the idea of staying in a cut wooden cabin didn’t match the reality of it because of the heat. Whilst there were fans, Santa Catalina is HOT and it was challenging staying there during day with no AC or pool to cool down.
Days 10-12: Boquete
You’ve managed to explore the city and the most beautiful tranquil island beaches. Now it’s time to head up to the mountains. Boquete is a town in the middle of a cloud forest and home to some of Panama’s most beautiful waterfalls, a volcano and hiking trails!
What makes Boquete so special is its natural beauty and tranquility. Imagine wandering to the Lost Waterfall trail, followed by a relaxing yoga session at Selina, then a well-deserved Panamanian coffee and chocolate… The perfect day, right?! This was a day in my life here and it’s exactly what I felt I needed after island hopping!
The Selina in Boquete is pretty impressive in terms of location, being right in the town centre of Boquete and a taste of nature with a babbling stream running through the grounds. However, the accomodation that steals the show in Boquete has to be Bambuda Castle! Did you know that you can stay in a hobbit house at an actual castle?! I highly recommend staying at this fairytale like spot high up in the hills of Boquete. It’s further away from the main town but their are taxis and if you’re in need of a zen spot, this is IT!
Days 12-14: Bocas del Torro
Nestled within Panama’s Caribbean coast, Bocas del Toro is the island paradise that dreams are made of. Whilst it’s built itself a reputation for being a party place, Bocas del Torro offers many moments for tranquility, especially if you decide to stay on an island away from Bocas Town. Having stayed at Bambuda Lodge on Bastimentos Island, I experienced just this. Staying on a Caribbean Island, in a rainforest surrounded by exotic birds and sloth, these memories will last a lifetime for me!
Don’t forget to visit Starfish Beach, where crystal-clear waters and an array of marine life offer a magical snorkelling experience. Tour the idyllic Zapatilla Island, where powdery white sands meet azure waves. Here, whiled-away hours snorkelling, relaxing, or indulging in beachside picnics feel like fleeting moments in paradise.
Practical info and geting around in Panama
Getting around in Panama offers a variety of options depending on your preferences and destinations. Here’s a brief guide:
1. Public Transportation:
Metro: Panama City has a modern metro system that is fast, efficient, and affordable. It primarily serves main urban areas.
Buses: Buses are widely used throughout the country. The “Diablo Rojo” old school buses have been replaced by newer, safer ones known as “Metro Buses” in Panama City.
Water Taxis: In coastal and island regions like Bocas del Toro and San Blas, water taxis are a common and efficient mode of transport. In terms of affordability, you are better off in numbers. I found that I often had to pay more as a solo traveler when the boats weren’t full.
2. Taxis and Ride-Sharing:
Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Panama City and other urban areas. It’s best to agree on a fare before your ride as they do not always use meters.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Uber and Bolt operate in Panama City and a quite inexpensive.
3. Car Rentals:
Renting a car is a flexible option, especially if you plan to explore rural areas or destinations like El Valle de Antón or the highlands of Boquete.
Rental agencies can be found at Tocumen International Airport and major cities.
4. Domestic Flights:
For longer distances, domestic flights are a quick way to travel. Airlines like Air Panama and Copa Airlines offer flights to destinations such as Bocas del Toro, David, and the Pearl Islands.
5. Walking and Cycling:
Walking is a great way to explore urban areas, especially in cities like Casco Viejo in Panama City and Boquete. Some regions offer bike rentals for short-distance travel or leisure cycling.
6. Tours and Shuttles:
Organized tours and shuttle services are available for popular tourist destinations. These can be convenient if you prefer guided experiences.
Tips for Getting Around:
Language: Knowing some basic Spanish can be very helpful.
Safety: Always be mindful of your belongings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
Staying connected
One way to stay connected is to buy a sim card from a local phone shop when arriving in Panama City. Networks like Tigo and Digicel do 7 day data packages. Ultimately, I recommend getting an E-Sim if you want to be connected as soon as you arrive at airport in Panama! Also, if you plan on spending a few days at the San Blas Islands because the chances are you won’t have any phone service and you won’t want to waste days on a 7 day package. You can find the best E-Sim deals here.
Enjoy!
Panama is so diverse in incredible travel experiences. The wildlife and natural beauty will have you in absolute awe! My only regret is not having more time to travel through the country more slowly and mindfully! Make sure you bookmark this itinerary and follow me on @sarasidyll on Instagram for more Panama tips, recs and updates!
E N J O Y P A N A M A <3
