Panama 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Panama Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on exploring the highlights of Panama City and its surrounding areas.

Day 1: Immerse Yourself in History & Culture

  • Morning: Explore Casco Viejo, Panama City’s historic district. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets, admire the colonial architecture, visit the Panama Canal Museum, and enjoy a traditional Panamanian breakfast at a local café.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal for a closer look at the engineering marvel. You can watch ships navigate the locks from a balcony overlooking the canal.

Things to Know:

  • Panama Canal: Witnessing the passage of ships through the Miraflores Locks is a must-do in Panama.
  • Currency: The official currency is the Balboa (PAB), but US dollars are widely accepted.

Day 2: Modern Marvels & Rooftop Views

  • Morning: Visit the modern marvels of Panama City, like the Biomuseo or the Frank Gehry-designed museum with its stunning architecture and interactive exhibits.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic stroll along the Cinta Costera, a beautiful waterfront promenade in Panama City.

Day 3: Rainforest Adventure & Wildlife Spotting

  • Activity: Embark on a day trip to Soberanía National Park (Parque Nacional Soberanía). Hike through the lush rainforest on one of the many trails, and experience the incredible biodiversity of Panama!

  • Things to do:

    • Visit the Summit Canopy Trails for a breathtaking zipline adventure.
    • Explore the Gamboa Rainforest Resort, home to a variety of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds.
    • Go birdwatching: Soberanía National Park is a great place to see over 500 species of birds, including toucans, hummingbirds, and parrots.

Day 4: Beach Day & City Life

  • Morning: Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center & Museum.

  • Afternoon: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Panama Viejo, soak up the sun, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Things to know:

    • Panama has a tropical climate, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
    • Transportation: Taxis are readily available and affordable in Panama City. Uber and local transportation options like taxis and buses are convenient ways to get around.

Day 5: History & Culture Day

  • Morning: Explore the Panama Canal Museum in the morning and learn about the history of this incredible feat of engineering.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Casco Viejo, exploring the shops, cafes, and historical sites.

Things to do (choose one or two):

  • Visit the Biomuseo: This fascinating museum by Frank Gehry is a great place to learn about Panama’s biodiversity and history.

  • Wander through the historic streets: Explore the charming architecture and vibrant culture of Casco Viejo while enjoying the charm of its plazas and historical landmarks.

  • Panama Canal & Miraflores Visitor Center: Witness the engineering marvel in action, seeing ships rise and fall through the locks.

Things to note about the Panama Canal:

  • The Panama Canal is a popular tourist destination, so it’s best to book tickets in advance.
  • Bring your passport: As the Panama Canal is an international landmark, you need to bring your passport for entry into Panama.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking!

Things to know about traveling to Panama:

  • Visa Requirements: For most nationalities, including tourists, a tourist visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days (with the exception of citizens from some countries who need a visa even for short stays). Check with your local Panamanian embassy or consulate for specific requirements for your nationality.

  • Currency: The US dollar is the official currency in Panama.

  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Things to do:

  • Panama City: Spend the day exploring the historic Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings.

Things to consider for your trip:

  • Transportation: Consider using public transportation like the Metro de Panamá (subway) or the “chicken bus” system for a unique experience.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
  • Culture: Immerse yourself in Panama’s rich culture by visiting local markets, enjoying traditional music and dance performances, or trying out a cooking class featuring the delicious flavors of Panamanian cuisine.

Things to remember:

  • Panama Canal: Consider purchasing a souvenir guide to commemorate your visit.
  • Transportation: The Panama Canal Railway offers scenic views along the canal route.

This itinerary provides a framework for a 5-day trip. You can customize it based on your interests and budget. For example, if you’re interested in wildlife, you might want to spend more time at the Panama Canal Zoo, where you can see sloths, monkeys, and other animals native to Panama**.

Other things to do:

  • Visit Panama City’s beaches: Explore the beauty of the Pacific Ocean with a visit to Playa Coronado, a popular beach town for swimming, surfing, and relaxation.
  • Explore the rainforest: Consider visiting Panama Viejo, the ruins of the original colonial city, or Miraflores Locks Visitor Center