Panama-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Panama City

  • Morning
    • Arrive at Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
    • Proceed to the immigration counter to obtain a visitor’s card (approximately $50-$100 USD, depending on your nationality)
    • Exchange some currency for Panamanian Balboas (PAB) or use an ATM to withdraw local cash
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the iconic Miraflores Locks to witness ships passing through the Panama Canal ($15 per person)
    • Explore the vibrant streets of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and try some local cuisine
    • Stop by the Panama Canal Museum to learn about the history and engineering behind this marvel (approximately $10-$20 USD per person)
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area, such as El Quindeño or La Tasca

Things to Know:

  • Panama is generally a safe country for tourists
  • Be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your drinks at bars and restaurants
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water instead

Day 2: Boquete Adventure

  • Morning
    • Take a domestic flight from Panama City to David (approximately $100-$150 USD, depending on the airline)
    • From David, take a bus or taxi to Boquete (approximately 1-2 hours, around $20-$50 USD)
    • Check-in at your accommodation and get ready for some outdoor activities
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Boquete Cloud Forest Reserve for hiking and birdwatching (approximately $10-$20 USD per person)
    • Go whitewater rafting or kayaking on the Chiriqui River ($50-$100 USD per person, depending on the activity)
  • Evening
    • Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants in Boquete, such as The Haven or Boquete Tree Trek

Things to Know:

  • The roads in Panama can be rough, so be prepared for bumpy rides
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat when exploring the outdoors

Day 3: Bocas del Toro Islands

  • Morning
    • Take a domestic flight from David to Bocas del Toro (approximately $100-$150 USD, depending on the airline)
    • From Bocas Town, take a water taxi or boat tour to explore the islands and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the Red Frog Beach for some beach time and swimming ($10-$20 USD per person)
    • Go snorkeling or diving in the Copa de Oveja area (approximately $50-$100 USD per person, depending on the activity)

Things to Know:

  • Bocas del Toro is a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers
  • Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning island scenery

Additional Tips and Information:

  • Transportation: You can rent cars or hire taxis in Panama City, David, and Bocas Town. Be aware that traffic rules may vary depending on the area.
  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries can enter Panama with a tourist card (approximately $50-$100 USD) for stays up to 180 days. Check with your local Panamanian embassy or consulate for more information.
  • Health and Vaccinations: Consult your doctor before traveling to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medications.
  • Weather: Panama has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 90°F (32°C). Be prepared for rain showers during the rainy season (May-November).
  • Budgeting: Plan ahead and budget accordingly. Accommodation prices range from $30-$100 USD per night in Boquete and Bocas del Toro.

This itinerary should give you a good starting point for planning your trip to Panama!