5 things you can’t miss in Panama

1. Discover the paradise-like San Blas Islands. This is an absolute must-do and see during your trip to Panama. For an authentic and immersive experience, I highly recommend taking a sailing trip through the islands. If you have the time and are up for an adventure, consider flying to Cartagena, Colombia, and crossing over to the San Blas Islands from there. This can be done via Blue Sailing and is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I’ve written a full post about this, which you can find on my profile. If you’re short on time, you can opt for a 3-day sailing trip within the islands themselves, also available with Blue Sailing. Picture white sand, palm trees, freshly caught fish and lobsters, and hardly any tourists—it’s truly paradise! 2. Explore the old and new parts of Panama City. A must-visit when you’re in Panama. Make sure to visit the famous Panama Canal, stroll along the boulevard, explore the old town (Casco Viejo), and hike through the Metropolitan Natural Park, where you can spot wildlife such as monkeys and macaws. At the top, you’ll enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city. 3. Hike in El Valle de Antón. This is a small village situated in the middle of a volcanic crater. It’s the perfect base for breathtaking hikes, hot springs, and beautiful sunrise and sunset spots. Being in the rainforest gives the hikes a unique charm. Must-do hikes include the India Dormida hike (ideal during the day) and the Cerro La Silla hike, which is best experienced at sunrise or sunset. Pack a local breakfast or snack, find a great spot, and enjoy the stunning views! You can also visit a nice butterfly sanctuary: butterly haven. We stayed at La Casa India Dormida, a nice and budget-friendly place close to the trailhead of the India Dormida hike. 4. Discover surfer’s paradise Santa Catalina. If you’re looking for an authentic beach town, this is the perfect place. Located on Panama’s Pacific coast, it’s globally known as a haven for surfers, divers, and nature lovers. The best surfing spots are La Punta and Playa Estero. Every evening, you’ll be treated to a gorgeous sunset too. It’s also an excellent base for visiting Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning beaches, coral reefs, and a lot of marine life like sharks, manta rays, and whales. Whale and whale shark seasons are worth checking out to plan your visit accordingly. In terms of activities, I highly recommend diving here. If you don’t dive, snorkeling tours are a great alternative. Tours can be booked at many locations on the island; we booked with Expedicion Coiba and highly recommend them. Another nice activity is renting a kayak and paddling to Isla Catalina, a 30-minute trip from the mainland. The island has beautiful blue water and a lovely beach. For a boutique hotel, I recommend Villa Coco, which also serves excellent food even if you’re not staying there. For a more budget-friendly option, Hostal Familiar Rolo is a great choice. 5. Hike into the cloudforest in Boquete. This is a mountain town with a cooler climate, known for its nature. It’s located at the base of Volcán Barú, Panama’s highest volcano, which you can also climb. The area offers incredible hiking opportunities, with the Lost Waterfalls hike and the Pipeline Trail being my top picks. You can also enjoy a coffee tour or go rafting. Unlike El Valle de Antón, Boquete is in a cloud forest, offering a completely different experience and making it a must-visit. For accommodation, I recommend staying at Selina Boquete, which offers dorms as well as beautiful private rooms in a perfect location. For a great meal, check out RetroGusto.

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