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Visiting Panama in February

Panama weather in February

Avg. temperature: 26.3°C / 79.3°FRain: 10.1 mm per month
Sun: 8.8 hrs per day (sunshine) / 11.8 hrs per day (daylight)Avg. Humidity: 66%

If you’re thinking of visiting Panama in February you’ve picked one of the best months to do so! In the heart of the dry season, Panama only experiences one rainy day during February so you can expect clear, bright skies, almost guaranteed!

The truth is, as a country with a tropical climate and year-round pleasant temperatures, there really is no bad time to visit Panama. But, Panama weather in February makes it particularly desirable amongst tourists, particularly those looking to escape the drizzly cold of typical northern hemisphere climates.

With this in mind, be aware that February is the peak of Panama’s tourist season, so you should book your trip in advance to secure your choice of accommodation and get the best deals as hotel prices and airfares are typically higher than the rest of the year.

Despite the crowds, it’s a fantastic time to visit and we’ll tell you some of the best things to do in Panama in February! From lounging on luscious beaches to hiking in some of the country’s best peaks, there is something for everyone in Panama.

Things to do in Panama in February

Attend the event of the year in the lead up to Lent

Starting four days before Ash Wednesday, the annual Carnaval is Panama’s biggest and most celebrated event. The festival takes place before Lent and is a dramatic display of live music, parades, traditional dancing and fireworks and more. Expect the streets to fill with performers and lavishly decorated floats as the Carnival Queen is crowned in this wild street party that takes place throughout the country.

The streets are lined with food vendors offering local street food delicacies and music rings through the towns and cities as communities come together to celebrate in the festivities. This fun-filled fiesta can be best enjoyed in the capital for those wanting a city-style celebration, or small towns on the Azuero Peninsula, most notably Las Tablas. We should warn you: water balloons are commonplace during the carnival, so expect to get wet, and don’t take it too seriously!

Enjoy island life Caribbean-style in Bocas del Toro

This collection of islands cannot be missed during your Panamanian adventure. The region is biodiverse, has lush, tropical vegetation and fauna found only in this part of the world, not to mention its incredible marine life beneath the surface of the crystal blue waters. 

The beautiful Caribbean water is perfect for diving and snorkelling, and February is the ideal time to enjoy these activities thanks to the drier days. Though the Caribbean coast can experience showers year-round, February is one of the driest months meaning that the water is clearer as a result of less rain.

The natural beauty of the islands is breathtaking, and can be overwhelming on first sight as it is simply out of this world.

For nature-lovers Bocas del Toro is paradise, with ample opportunities for bird-watching, plenty of forest treks for the ultimate exploration and some of the best views you are guaranteed to see… well, anywhere. 

There are boats and kayaks for rent, plenty of watersporting activities on offer and plenty of rich culture and history to soak in as you explore the islands in the region. The islands are also home to lots of wonderful bars and restaurants that will ensure you are fed well in the most incredible surroundings during your stay.

Revel in the rainforest at Soberanía National Park

Geoff Gallice from Gainesville, FL, USA

One of Panama’s most accessible tropical rainforests sits in the 220 square kilometre Soberanía National Park, just 30 minutes from Panama City by road.

Thanks to the dry season in the Panama Canal Zone region, February is one of the best times to visit the park as you’ll experience the best of the outdoors without getting wet. It features many hiking and nature trails, with different levels of intensity depending on your ability and preference. 

As you trek through the pristine rainforest your chances of spotting monkeys and sloths, not to mention many native birds, are pretty high as the park is home to more than 120 mammal species, over 400 bird species and nearly 80 species of reptile. This place is a wild paradise!

Also read: Best Waterfalls in Panama

Get an education at the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center

Just 40 minutes from Panama City, the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center is an ecotourism hotspot offering environmental education as its goal is the conservation of birds through environmental sustainability projects. 

There are various tours available, all of which involve walking trails through the forest where you’ll see (and hear!) a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The Calamito Lake has a lookout deck where you’ll spot aquatic birds, while the Observation Tower, standing 32 meters high above the canopy of the rainforest, offers spectacular views of the birds flying through the trees.

Soak up the surf in Pacific town Playa Venao

Panama’s Pacific coast doesn’t get quite as much attention as it’s Caribbean half and is much less trodden on the tourist path. Playa Venao is gaining in popularity, though, as one of the most talked about surf locations in the country thanks to its various beaches with different grades of choppy waves suitable for all levels of surfer, from novice to expert.

Aside from traditional surfing, there’s windsurfing, kite surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, diving, snorkeling and more on offer. It is a lively town filled with locals and tourists, and it has a kind of party vibe.

You might be tempted to stick to the Caribbean, but we’d recommend taking a trip to the Pacific coast, too!

Best time to visit Panama: JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

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Visiting Panama in March

Panama weather in March

Avg. temperature: 26.6°C / 79.9°FRain: 13.1 mm per month
Sun: 5.9 hrs per day (sunshine) / 12.1 hrs per day (daylight)Avg. Humidity: 56.5%

One of the driest months of the year, Panama in March is a great place to visit! Not only is the temperature in Panama in March pleasantly warm, but the humidity is at its lowest of the year thanks to the minimal rainfall.

While sunshine hours have decreased since February, the days are still long with over 12 hours of daylight. This means you’ll have all day long and into the evening to enjoy the very best of the natural beauty on offer throughout Panama!

The highlands experience some of the best weather during March; higher altitude regions typically experience more rain year-round, but this is one of the driest months so although temperatures will be a few degrees cooler, you’re pretty much guaranteed a dry time during your visit.

The Caribbean coast will experience more rain than other regions, but the temperatures make up for this so don’t let it put you off a lazy beach vacation!

Things to do in Panama in March

Take a hike in the highlands in the sunniest month of the year

Despite technically being the dry season, the Chiriqui Highlands experience a wet spell during January and February due to their altitude, before drying off for the bright and sunny month of March. While March may not be the sunniest month in other regions of Panama, it certainly is in the Chiriqui Highlands and we’d recommend a visit for the adventurers out there.

Panama’s only volcano and its highest peak, the Baru Volcano, is located in the highlands along with some of the longest rivers in the country. Despite being sunny during March, thanks to its high altitude the Chiriqui Highlands have a cool climate, which can be a welcome respite from the hot and humid lowlands.

With plenty of birdwatching, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking on offer, the highlands should be on the itinerary of any lover of the great outdoors during your Panamanian adventure.

Also read: Best Waterfalls in Panama

Wake up and smell the coffee (and oranges!) in

Boquete is the main town in the Chiriqui Highlands and a great base for exploring the area. But before you head off on a challenging hike, perhaps you need a little energy to get you on your way?

Thankfully, some of the best coffee in the world is produced in Boquete, thanks to the volcanic ash that enriches the soil making it prime location for harvesting coffee beans. The area is home to many coffee farms, processing plants and tasting facilities that welcome visitors and host tours on a daily basis.

Many of the producers are certified organic, and the coffee made is bound to be some of the best you’ve tasted. Amongst the most popular plantations are Kotowa Estates, one of the oldest coffee mills in the country, and Hacienda La Esmeralda which produces some of the world’s most elite, exclusive and expensive coffee.

The land surrounding the farms are rife with orange trees so, if coffee isn’t your bag you can sip away on the freshest, finest orange juice you ever will have.

Have an outdoor adventure at the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve

Set over 55,000 acres on the shores of the Panama Canal the Gamboa Rainforest Reserve is the place to be for eco-adventurers looking for an exhilarating, action-packed itinerary. With so many natural attractions to explore, there are many activities on offer that cater to all.

Get ready for an unforgettable and extraordinary rainforest adventure as you take the Aerial Tram on a 600 metre journey high above the canopy on an elevated gondola where you’ll see birds, sloths and all kinds of monkeys playing in the trees that are their natural habitat.

The observation tower offers spectacular panoramic views of the Soberania National Park, while the Gatun Lake and Panama Canal expedition caters to water-adventurers as you explore the second biggest artificial lake in the world.

The Gamboa Rainforest Resort offers spa facilities for guests who wish to observe spiritual and physical relaxation in the most tranquil of surroundings, perhaps after a few hours of excitement in the jungle.

Explore Caribbean culture in Portobelo Town

If you’re heading to the Caribbean coast, often overlooked is Portobelo, a laid-back Caribbean fishing village that is surprisingly the cultural and artistic center of the region. It is a picturesque colonial town whose Spanish fortification ruins that used to ward off English pirates are a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Portobelo National Park features beach terrain and a tropical climate, and plenty of exotic wildlife that calls the region home.

There are plenty of nearby beaches which can be accessed by boat from Portobelo, offering great snorkeling spots and the opportunity to chill out in a quieter part of the Caribbean coast before venturing to a more bustling beachside town.

Read our detailed guide: What to do in Portobelo

For palm trees and white sand beaches head to Isla Grande

Only 15km from Portobelo on the northern Caribbean coast is the small but perfectly formed Isla Grande. It is a postcard picture of exactly what you would expect of a Caribbean island, and is a popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike, looking to escape the hustle and bustle of nearby capital, Panama City. 

It’s the ideal setting for snorkelling and diving, or for those less inclined to delve to the depths of the ocean simply sit back and relax on the gorgeous beaches as you sip from a coconut. This is island life at its very finest.

We recommend that you visit during the week if you prefer to avoid crowds!

Best time to visit Panama: JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

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Visiting Panama in January

Panama weather in January

Avg. temperature: 26.2°C / 78.8°FRain: 29.3 mm per month
Sun: 7.4 hrs per day (sunshine) / 11.7 hrs per day (daylight)Avg. Humidity: 70%

Thinking of escaping to Panama in January? The average temperature in Panama in January is an enticing escape from the typical harsh colds of the northern hemisphere’s winters.

Not to mention, it’s the start of the dry season so the monthly rainfall takes a huge plunge from more than 100mm in December to less than 30mm. Sure, there may be the occasional thunderstorm, but you certainly shouldn’t expect your days to be dampened by anything too significant.

As the rainy season has just ended, the natural landscape is thriving from the water it received in the previous months. Did you know that the rainy season is also known as the green season? You can expect the trees leaves to be vibrant green, flowers to be popping with beautiful, bright colours and the native birds to sing louder than ever as they bask in the freshly revived forests.

As summer is just beginning, January is one of the most popular times to visit Panama, and with good reason. There’s so much to do and so much to see, and we will break down some of the highlights in this guide.

Things to do in Panama in January

Book a beautiful beach break on the Caribbean or Pacific Coast

With coastlines straddling two tremendous seas, in the height of the summer season there’s no shortage of beach breaks on offer in Panama in January. Head to the Caribbean coast for small beaches and calm waters that lend themselves to a relaxing, sleepy vacation, or the Pacific coast for bigger beaches, wilder waters and a more bustling atmosphere for a little bit more adventure.

For keen surfers, Playa Venao on the Pacific side offers some of the best breaks in the country, and for spectators the golden-sand beaches are a great place to sit back and take in the sport in comfort.

Read more: What to do in Playa Venao

Sticking to the Pacific Coast, the town of Santa Catalina offers surfing, beach horseback riding, great cycling trails through the sand or smaller beaches for you to unwind.

Over on the Caribbean coast you can expect white sand beaches, bright turquoise crystal clear waters and the ultimate destination for a beach escape. With many small islands dotted just off the coast, there are many beautiful places to explore that are easily accessible by boat.

Some of the best include the Bocas del Toro Islands, one of Panama’s most frequented tourist destinations, and The Pearl Islands, offering a more remote, rustic feel.

Expect a pleasant breeze off the water along the Caribbean coast, which is a welcome escape from the hot heat of the beaming sun.

For flowers and coffee, head to the Boquete Flowers and Coffee Fair

The small mountain town of Boquete might not typically find itself on a Panamanian itinerary, but it’s certainly worth a visit in January as it hosts a 10 day flower and coffee event. 

This is by no means what you would expect of a traditional Latin American festival; in fact, it is a much sleepier and slower-paced event, but enjoyable nonetheless as the beautiful landscape is decorated with delightful floral displays and local coffee producers occupy the towns fairgrounds selling their homemade produce.

Did you know that Boquete coffee is considered some of the best in the world?

Panama Jazz Festival

For a more lively experience head to Panama City for one of the country’s biggest musical events, the Panama Jazz Festival. It runs for a week and the city’s theatres and venues play host to a vast range of events, with the week ending with a free open-air concert at the Plaza de la Independencia. A must for jazz-lovers!

Celebrate Panama’s national dress at the The Thousand Polleras Parade

No visit to a Latin American country would be complete without attending one of their famous parades. In January, Las Tablas is transformed from a quiet, uneventful small town to a lively destination as it hosts The Thousand Polleras Parade.

The parade is a celebration of the ‘polleras’, Panama’s national dress, and consists of locals dressing in the traditional clothing and filling the streets as they are transported on carriages and decorated floats through the town. There is music and food and drinks and the ultimate community feel as the town lights up with an atmosphere of excitement and pride.

Booking your Panama trip in January

As the weather is improving and the landscape is thriving from the previous few months’ rainy season, January is one of the most popular times to visit Panama. With this in mind, travel and accommodation costs begin to increase as more and more tourists book their Panamanian adventures.

We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment, and look out for deals particularly at resorts with offers typically providing free nights if you book, say, 3 or 4 consecutive nights. Many resorts offer package deals including drinking and dining options, which can be a great way to go if you’re looking for a bargain.

Best time to visit Panama: JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

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Visiting Panama in Christmas

Weather in Panama in Christmas

Avg. temperature: 26.2°C / 78.8°FRain: 104.6mm per month
Sun: 3.9 hrs per day (sunshine) / 11.6 hrs per day (daylight)Avg. Humidity: 75%

With average daily temperatures of 26.2°C / 78.8°F in December, Panama makes a great escape from the harsh winter cold you might be used to experiencing over Christmastime. Of course, you should certainly not expect a White Christmas. Although temperatures are high you should know that December falls during the country’s wet season, so you can expect daily rain.

But did you know that the wet season, or winter, is also known as the green season? This speaks to the effect that the rain has on the stunning natural landscape, which turns a vibrant green as the trees and plants thrive in the water. For many, green season is the best time to visit Panama.

If you’re considering a Panama Christmas, keep reading this guide to understand how the locals celebrate and what you can expect during your festive break.

What are the main holidays in Panama?

The people of Panama love a celebration and there are many national holidays throughout the year that commemorate various significant cultural and religious events.

Some of the main holidays in Panama include Martyr’s Day, which falls on 9th January, and is a day of national mourning to commemorate the 1964 anti-American riots over sovereignty of the Panama Canal Zone.

On a more positive note, in March there is the annual Carnival which is a flamboyant celebration adored by locals and tourists. As in many Central and South American countries, Easter (typically in April) is a widely celebrated religious holiday, while in November the ‘Fiestas Patrias’ is a series of holidays focussed on Panama’s independence.

Finally, one of the main holidays celebrated in Panama is Christmas, which is the real reason you’re here.

How do they celebrate Christmas in Panama?

As in many of its neighboring countries, the Christmas season in Panama begins on December 8th, a holy day observed throughout Latin America marking the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. It is also Mother’s Day, so the festivities that commence are a lovely way to spend the day for Mom’s throughout the country as well.

Expect parades, where locals and their children dress up and carry statues of the Blessed Virgin through towns and cities main streets, and come together for feasts and music and dancing on this sacred day.

During the following week nativity scenes (or ‘nacimientos’) are set up, typical of many Christmas cultures across the globe. Families create their own scenes, many of which have been passed through generations and each year modernised with additions of new figurines or handcrafted items.

Alongside nativity scenes, the Christmas trees are set up and lavishly decorated with bright and beautiful twinkly lights and ornaments.

The main event comes on 24th December, Christmas Eve, with the 25th being a more subdued affair about relaxation and enjoying the company of one’s family.

December 24th is spent preparing traditional foods by the bucket load ready to host huge family gatherings for the evening’s dinner, after which dances and celebrations are taken to the streets for the ultimate feeling of community togetherness.

On the morning of December 25th, church services are held where people gather for worship. The rest of the day is spent devouring the previous days delicious leftovers in the comfort of home, and spending time with relatives and loved ones.

It is not until January 6th – known as “King’s Day” – that children eagerly await their gifts which are brought by the Three Wise Men.

Christmas in Panama City, Panama

If you’re thinking about visiting Panama, you’re likely to spend some time in the capital, Panama City.

One thing you shouldn’t miss if you’re in town over the Christmas period is the Panama City Christmas Parade. Typically held around the 14th of December, the streets of Downtown fill with elaborately decorated floats, locals dressed in wild Christmas costumes and masses of lights and festive decorations.

Locals and tourists come together to attend the parade and enjoy dancing to traditional Christmas music while enjoying the smells and tastes of the delectable food on offer from any of the street vendors lining the pavements.

Read more: What to do in Panama City

Planning your Panamanian Christmas

The month of December technically falls during the low tourist period, as it is winter and also the height of the rainy season. While this typically means cheaper travel and accommodation options, be aware that the prices do tend to pick up over the Christmas period as visitors flock to the country for a festive escape.

We therefore recommend planning in advance and getting your accommodation booked nice and early to avoid high prices, and any potential disappointment.

Best time to visit Panama: JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

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Visiting Panama in the Summer

Panama Summer Weather

Panama is a unique country with a pre-equatorial climate. Situated just eight degrees north of the equator, this is a unique situation as the weather mirrors that of its equatorial counterparts. The weather in Panama is primarily tropical with two seasons: wet and dry, this is colloquially known by Panamanians as summer and winter. “Winter” typically lasts from May to December and “summer” is from December to April

While it may be summertime where you are, and you are itching to take some time off to escape and hide out on the beach, you will be able to find that Panama will give you a mixed bag. Panama’s weather is very bisectional. It is surrounded by the Caribbean to the North and the Pacific to the south, and separated by towering highlands and rainforests in between. This creates two impressive biospheres. On the Pacific side, winter means short bursts of refreshing downpour and rattling thunderstorms. On the Caribbean side of the country, this usually means hazy skies and night-time sprinkles. 

While it may sway you away from the summer craze, you will actually find that Panama’s natural beauty really comes alive during these times. Firstly, the rain will be fueled by the rain to stay green and lush, which creates an absolutely stunning spectacle and makes for great exploring excursions! This also means that Panama is not a type of place where if it rains, it rains all day. Quite the contrary, actually. ‘Rain’ in the Panamanian definitions is usually a short spat, where if you go to a restaurant or cafe, the rain is most likely to have stopped by the time you leave the establishment. The sound of a rainy season might not be so enticing, but we can assure you that you will be able to have as much fun in the sun if you stay on the Caribbean side of the country and avoid activities that may have to contend with impending rain. It will be just as fun, sunny and painless, but just requires some extra planning! 

The best thing to know about Panama’s dynamic climate is that although Panama is technically situated in the hurricane zone, it is extremely rare for a hurricane to actually ever make landfall in Panama. As a matter of fact, only one hurricane has ever hit Panama inconceivable history, and that was 51 years ago! 

Panama during our summer season is a time of great discovery. You can explore the many cultural icons that dot the country’s capital, Panama City. Take a boat and go for an adventure through the paradise islands of San Blas. Explore the culture of one (or all) of seven different indigenous groups who inhabit different parts of the country through a new and burgeoning sector — community tourism! Ecotourism is also something to take into consideration as you will be able to make fun excursions through the cooler temperature area of Boquete. The world is yours to explore, and what easier place to do that than in Panama! 

Best time to visit Panama: JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Where to go in Panama in Summer

Panama City

Panama City is the biggest and most famous city in the country, as well as being a household name of the region. This city is a beacon of economic prosperity and the frontrunner of stability in an otherwise increasingly unstable region. With over 1.5 million inhabitants, the city is the entrance of the Pacific as well as the Carribean. Founded by Spanish Colonists, it was a stopover of one of the most important trade routes in the world at its time, so prosperity is something that Panama City has experienced since time immemorial. 

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Casco Antiguo, the old town of Panama to step into the rich colonial past of the city, as well as getting a good view into the modernity of the country. The Panama Viejo is a great way to see the city’s initial inception and learn about its uphill battle against the pirates that infested the seas. Best of all, visit the Panama Canal to get an experience of one of the most important trade passages in the entire planet!

 Panama City is a great place to hide out from the rain through its many activities that do not involve much of any outdoor requirements! Take a taxi to the Miraflores Visitor centre and observe the marvelous process of the Panama Canal locks. This is a great way to educate yourself about the Panama Canal and learn about why it is so important for the growth of the country. Visit the famed Biomuseo which is focused on the natural history of the country, which you might come to find out its geological inception was extremely recent. The church of San Jose is one of the most magnificent pieces of religious architecture in the country. Built in the 1670s, it contains a golden altar, which is one of Panama’s most viewed artifacts; bringing devotees from all over the place. With art galleries, churches, museums and other places of interest, there are many ways you can conquer the rain without having to even see a drop in Panama City!

Read our guide: What to do in Panama City

San Blas

If you want to splurge and go on an adventure unlike any other, take a visit to the famed San Blas Islands! This is a great place to disconnect from your phone, take a boat tour around (even for days), and learn about the local indigenous culture, the amazing seafood, and the amazing sea life and natural beauty that these islands are famous for. 

There are varied ways of getting to these islands, most of which seem to make getting there very difficult, but it seems to actually be very easy! Your accommodation in the islands will make sure to book your transportation from wherever you are in Panama to the port to get to the islands, and you will be able to easily find coordinated movement to get from island to island, as this is what the locals do almost every day! 

San Blas islands are your best bet if you want to vacation for the water activities. The waters around these islands are particularly calm and are subject to the shifting and poor visibility of the rainy season in other parts of the country. If you have the money to spare, it is suggested that you hire that Catamaran, which is great for calm waters like this location. You can sail for days and stop at any beachside location without having to deal with any docks, and you can choose any beach you would like to stop at! If you cannot afford a Catamaran, sailing is also a great option to explore these islands, where you can make your daily catch, or even buy the catch of the day through the local markets for way less than eating at a restaurant, and you will be able to cook your own meals at almost any beach, for a castaway experience (without the stranded feeling!). 

If you want to experience the indigenous landscape of Panama to its fullest, the San Blas Islands is the perfect place to be! These islands are actually located in an autonomous area in the country, rich with culture, craftsmanship and tradition. Check out the handmade boats, with pops of colour and rich with history. You can still see the traditional clothing in the area and can learn and talk to the very friendly locals! 

San Blas is an explosion of beauty, colour and relaxation, and is a great place to unwind; far, far away from all the bustling activities on the mainland!

Read our guide: Best Beaches in Panama

What to Do in Panama in Summer

Have a meal at El Trapiche

If you are looking to escape the spat of rain in Panama City, make your way down to El Trapiche cafe! This is the best place to try Panama’s delicious local fare. If you did not get a chance to stay dry before getting street food, El Trapiche is your place to get an appetizer of an assortment of Panamanian Street food! You can also try their sandwiches which are made with deep-fried bread! If you would like to try Panamanian entrees, then you would be delighted to try the local beans, rice and pulled pork which is very popular here. It is very easy to find this place as it is out of the bustling old town and more into the local crowd. 

Whale-Watching! 

Around August is the best time to get on a covered boat and watch the beautiful whale-watching activities. This is around the time when the whales migrate to the Gulf of Chiriqui to congregate. Revel at the majesty of these beautiful and docile creatures as they pop up and down from the waters to show off and bring joy to the crowds who watch! They are affordable activities and are great for a quick excursion for some wildlife watching. 

Experience the traditions of the Guna people

The Guna are the indigenous peoples of Panama and Colombia who live along the coast. These are people who have stayed with the traditions steadfast for many, many years, and continue to hold strong to these values. Nothing is more evident of this than when they declared the San Blas Islands, their autonomous territory, which still holds true today. Their long seafaring history and their love of the oceans is evident in their culture, where boating reigns supreme and their traditional clothes are worn with pride! 

Take a Chocolate-making class (!!!!)

In the cooler highlands of Boquete, you are able to put on a light sweater and cozy up in a nice repurposed hut. But if the rain is getting you down in these highland regions, there is nothing better to do than to take a chocolate-making class! Boquete is the chocolate capital of Panama, and there is nowhere more fun to do this than the Perfect Pair: Chocolate and Coffee where you can have a bite to eat while learning about the processes of chocolate-making — from bean to bite.

Buy artisanal crafts at the Karavan Gallery

In Panama City, you may be blinded by all the glitz and the glamour of the high street life. From the high-ticket stores at the expensive and foreign invested shopping malls to the high-brow restaurants around the Corniche in the city. But within the old city is the Karavan Gallery. This is a beautiful assortment of arts and crafts that are celebrated all over Panama and are an excellent place to find traditional Panamanian crafts and arts that are excellent souvenirs to bring back home!  

Learn about Human history in Panama

Javier Alonso / CC BY-SA

The Museo Antropologico Reina Torres de Arauz (or MARTA) is Panama’s go-to anthropological museum. Established in the 1980s and curated thousands of artifacts, the museum is a great testament to human history. You can explore the displays that include more than 15,000 pieces of pre-Colombian pieces and artifacts from the Barriles tribe, which were the first human inhabitants of Panama. You can also find the modern and old Pollera dresses and even antiques from the households of the early colonial settlers!

Panama’s diversity!

Panamanian culture and cuisine is a vibrant mix of European, Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean influences. Take a Panamanian Culinary Heritage and Food Tour, where you can enjoy the amazing dishes that Panamanians have been eating since time immemorial. You can try the delicious foods like codfish cakes, patacones and seafood platters to your liking! While doing this, you are able to explore the diverse neighbourhoods of Panama City and learn why and understand the culinary influence the Panamanians hold so sacred to their lifestyle! Finish the tour with probably the best coffee you have ever tasted. 

Learn about the wonders of the Panamanian wild

The Punta Culebra Nature Centre, curated by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute is a wildlife exhibition museum that is focused on the education of the marine and coastal biospheres. This is a great family activity to do if you are bored and want to explore the wildlife with kids without worrying about a hike where there is a risk of your child being distracted and going off the path! There are so many interactive activities such as the touch tank for turtles and sea life as well as an entire wing dedicated to the ‘Fabulous Frogs’ of Panama. After your tour, you are able to take a final trail through a tropical dry forest where you can witness animals and even butterflies roaming wild! 

What to Pack

During the Summer, it is recommended that you bring light rainwear with you, firstly. You will also need hiking boots that are waterproof if you are an athletic soul and would like to plunge into the wild during the rainy season. For a nice time on the Caribbean Coast, you will find it helpful to bring swimwear and sunscreen, because you will have a lot of time to catch some sun as well as sunglasses during this time. It is advisable to carry an umbrella during the walking tours as you it will be a lot more convenient for you keeping dry rather than soaked in the raincoat. 

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Visiting Panama in Winter – What to do

Panama is located well inside the tropics with a pre-equatorial climate, being placed at the crossroads of Central and South America. The good thing about Panama is that it has two seasons. The dry season that occurs from December to March and the wet season that lasts the rest of the year. 

The northeastern winds prevail which bring some rainfall on the north side that faces the Caribbean Sea, when the sea is warmer. The south side facing the Pacific Ocean, the weather becomes very dry and the country comes alive with adventure, activity and great wildlife spotting opportunities! It is hot almost everywhere, and the sun shines with very little rain. 

To find a bit of cooler weather, there are the tierras templadas, or “temperate lands” in the area surrounding Boquete, a quaint colonial town in the beautiful highlands of Panama. 

During the dry winter season, the little rain that does occur comes in the form of aguaceros, which is the Panamanian way of describing a thunderstorm of torrential downpour. These walls of water occur very sparingly throughout the months and last only for some minutes, usually in the afternoon, or early hours of the night. While the weather can sometimes be described as very unpredictable in Panama, the dry season makes way for a lot of tourism for people escaping the oppressing and cold climates back home. 

The dry season is the best time to visit Panama because it is summertime in the Equatorial nations, meaning that the heat and dry landscape from the south comes up and touches Panama in a beautiful and pleasant way, perfect for vacationing and fun! It is especially ideal to visit Panama during the winter months because it is much different than traveling during the long, wet season. For example, scuba diving in Panama during the dry season makes way for clearer waters as opposed to the wet season because the visibility is extremely ideal due to the lack of rain. 

Where to go in Panama in Winter

Panama City

Panama City is the biggest and most famous city in the country, as well as being a household name of the region. This city is a beacon of economic prosperity and the frontrunner of stability in an otherwise increasingly unstable region. With over 1.5 million inhabitants, the city is the entrance of the Pacific as well as the Carribean. Founded by Spanish Colonists, it was a stopover of one of the most important trade routes in the world at its time, so prosperity is something that Panama City has experienced since time immemorial. 

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Casco Antiguo, the old town of Panama to step into the rich colonial past of the city, as well as getting a good view into the modernity of the country. The Panama Viejo is a great way to see the city’s initial inception and learn about its uphill battle against the pirates that infested the seas. Best of all, visit the Panama Canal to get an experience of one of the most important trade passages in the entire planet! Panama City in the winter is especially pleasant because it allows you to walk through the city without having to worry about humidity and rain all day. Another great catch to being in Panama City in the winter is experiencing Carnival in a beautiful Latin American city. 

Read our detailed guide: What to do in Panama City

Las Tablas

Located on the Southern Pacific coast of Panama, Las Tables is the centre of Panamanian folk music, art, food, culture and architecture. Its name meaning “the boards”, comes from the ship that was taken apart to build the first settlements in the town. The political landscape in Las Tablas was also unique as one of the most beloved presidents in Panama was from Las Tablas. What it is best known for is its Carnival culture. The city comes alive but also splits apart into two carnival factions. Calle Ariba (Uptown) and Calle Abajo (Downtown) are on the same street but divides the town into a competition of queens, parades, fireworks, plazas, food, concerts and extravagance in a way to outpower the other side. To get a taste of this, the winter is the best time to pay the city a visit!

Colon

The Carribean capital of Panama, Colon has always been known as Panama’s second city. The site of an American military outpost, the city was a centre for the American expat community. Later becoming a centre of Latin American Carribean commerce, Colon was the centre of the Panama Railroad. During its heyday, the city was known for its nightclubs, cabarets and theatres. Massive restoration has created a revival in the city after decades of decline. During the winter, Colon is a great centre to get to the beach towns and Carribean beaches of Panama. The dry season creates a great snorkelling opportunity since the water is so clear from the lack of rain!

What to Do in Panama in Winter

Jazz and Jive

In January, Panama City comes alive in a way that is unique. Started in 1965, the Panama Jazz Festival is a multi-day extravaganza that attracts the world’s best jazz artists and spreads them out throughout this Latin American metropolis. The best thing — the concerts take place in the pleasant outdoors and are completely gratis! Put your jazz hat on and get your jazz hands out because you will be having a great time jiving and jamming to one of the world’s most beloved genres!

Costume at Carnival

One of the most important events of the year in Panama, Carnival takes place during the commencement of the Lent festivities, and is a time when the entire country comes together for a feast of the eyes, taste and feel! Live music overpowers the cities, where people dance for days. Food stalls smelling up the avenues and providing a delicious taste of Panama with traditional and contemporary fare. Parades line up and down the streets in an extravagant display of celebration. There is a pageant for the Carnival Queen and a crowning where water is sprayed from the floats! Another unique Carnival custom are water balloon and water gun fights! While all cities in Panama experience a great time and are equally great places to get in on the festivities, Las Tablas is the best place to go for Carnival!

Sea fare at the Sea Fair!

Along the beach fronts of Isla Colon, there is a great excuse to have fun in the sun, other than just being there! The Feria del Mar is a great place to experience the beautiful seaside culture of the country. Panama is surrounded by stretches of water, and a thriving history of sea-based culture gives this festival legitimacy to be a celebrated and well worth event to attend! Free sea snacks are thrown out at people as you can visit the parades and the exhibitions of the boats built or decorated by the fishermen and boatmen of this country. You will be able to take boat rides along the beach, look at the beautiful craftsmanship of the local industry, and dance around to live music performances of this dynamic and thriving nation!

Fabrics, Fashion, Fun!

The Pollera is the beautiful traditional garb of the Panamanian woman. The pollera is a long, full skirt with many gathers. This was a very common dress of the women of Europe at the time and said to have been brought over to Panama from Spain as early as the 1700s. This is a beautiful cotton skirt printed in beautiful floral designs most commonly used in tropical climates. These are very closely related to the traditional dress of the Southern Spanish region of Andalusia. La Pollera Festival was established to create awareness of the dress and to keep up this beautiful cultural garb. Women from around the country come with the best ateliers of the area to pay homage to this traditional and very special art. There are pageants, parades and awards for the best Pollera in many categories. 

What to Pack

For the coasts and the inner plains of Panama, bring lightwear, and a sweatshirt for the evening, and the blasting air conditioning. Some snorkeling equipment is ideal, as you will be using the clear waters of the dry season to your advantage, so bring those water shoes and trunks! Sunscreen and a sun hat is very important all year round in Panama, so it is very important to bring things that will protect your skin from the blasting sun. If you want a cooler experience in the highlands, make sure to get a pair of very good hiking boots. 

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