Panama: Things to do

Hike in a magical environment of bromeliads, orchids and quetzals at the foot of Barú volcano.

Be awed by the sight of huge humpback whales off the Pacific coast of Panama

Uncover a bloodthirsty history of conquistadors and pirates in the former Spanish stronghold of Portobelo.

Explore corners of an idyllic Caribbean archipelago that are inaccessible to other visitors on a multi-day kayaking and canoeing trip that helps to support the islands' indigenous community.

Swim, snorkel and follow nature trails on the paradise islands of San Blas while getting to know its autonomous Kuna community.

Watch shoals of tropical fish dart between coral reefs in the crystal-clear seas of San Blas.

Take a guided tour by boat or on foot in the wildlife paradise of jungle Soberania National Park on the banks of the Panama Canal. 

Travel from ocean to ocean along the historic Panama Canal Railway.

Watch giant cargo ships narrowly squeeze through the locks of the world-famous canal linking the two sides of the Americas – an astounding feat of engineering.

Get closer to nature on a trek along a historic route through lush rainforest.

Visit the historic core of Panama City to get a glimpse of life pre-canal.

Take on a challenging trek through near-uncharted jungle terrain, following in the footsteps of conquistadors and pirates.

Visit the traditional Embera indians who have only been a settled community for seventy years.

Explore the underwater world of Bastimientos Marine Reserve, where crystal-clear waters harbour coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles and manatees.

Snorkel from white-sand beaches or among mangroves, spotting starfish, turtles and other tropical marine life.

Visit a cocoa plantation in the Panamanian Caribbean islands of Bocas del Toro and learn how chocolate is made the traditional way.

Take a thrill ride along the Chiriqui river for an exciting way to get up close to the natural world.

Discover the secrets that go into producing some of Panama's finest coffee on a jeep safari around a rural coffee plantation.

Gallop across a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and premontane forest in the shadow of Barú volcano.

Get a bird's eye view of the cloud forest and canyons of Panama's volcanic interior from the vantage point of a canopy zipline or series of spectacular.hanging bridges.