Panama Route

Panama, the narrow country that separates two oceans, offers travellers a fascinating mix of culture, nature and adventure. A round trip through Panama allows you to immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of the country. Our route takes us from the vibrant capital Panama City via tranquil Santa Catalina and breathtaking Isla Coiba up to the cool heights of Boquete.

General

Panama offers travellers various ways to explore the country, each with its own charm and advantages. Whether you opt for adventure in a chicken bus, enjoy the freedom of a hire car or reach your destination quickly by plane, Panama has the right mode of transport for every traveller.

Chicken bus: Colourful, cheap and adventurous

The colourful chicken buses, which are common in many parts of Central America, are also a popular means of transport in Panama. These former American school buses have been painted in bright colours and transformed into true works of art. A ride on a chicken bus is not only inexpensive, but also an authentic way to get to know the country and its people.

Buses run between cities and rural areas, and the journeys are often an experience in themselves. Music blares from the speakers as the bus driver manoeuvres through the winding roads. Although buses are not the most comfortable or fastest way to travel, they offer you an unparalleled insight into the lives of the locals and the colourful hustle and bustle of Panama’s streets.

Hire car: flexibility and independence

For those who want to explore Panama on their own, renting a car is an excellent option. With a car, you have complete flexibility and can plan your route however you like. Whether you want to stop spontaneously at a beach or explore hidden villages off the beaten track, a rental car gives you the freedom to experience the country at your own pace.

The roads in Panama are mostly in good condition, especially along the Pan-American Highway, the country’s main traffic artery. Remote regions and national parks are also easily accessible, even if you occasionally find yourself driving on gravel roads. You also have the opportunity to stop at any time to enjoy the scenery or go for a short hike.

Airplane: Fast and comfortable

If you want to cover long distances in a short time, flying is a comfortable option. Panama has several domestic airports connecting the main cities and tourist destinations. Flying is the fastest and often the only way to reach remote locations such as the San Blas Islands or Bocas del Toro.

Domestic flights are relatively affordable and offer you the opportunity to see a lot of the country in a short amount of time. The views during the flight are often spectacular, with views of dense rainforests, endless coastlines or even the Panama Canal.

Itinerary for approximately 10 days

The route from Panama City via Santa Catalina to Boquete can be planned as a one-way trip (e.g. as part of a transit to Costa Rica or Colombia) or as a round trip. Depending on how much you want to hike, surf or dive, the trip can of course be longer or shorter. However, always allow plenty of time for transport, as not all roads are well developed and progress can be very slow in some places.

Start in Panama City: Modernity meets history (approx. 3 days)

Our journey begins in Panama City, a city that effortlessly combines the past and the present. A stroll through the historic district of Casco Viejo feels like a journey back to colonial times. The narrow streets, colourful houses and lively squares tell stories of days long past. But just a stone’s throw away, the city’s modern skyline towers impressively, symbolising Panama’s progress and economic boom.

A visit to the world-famous Panama Canal is an absolute must. Watching the huge container ships slowly manoeuvre through the locks is an impressive experience. A detour to the Amador Causeway also offers a magnificent view of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

Santa Catalina and Isla Coiba: A paradise for divers

From Panama City, the journey continues to Santa Catalina, a small, relaxed coastal village that is considered the gateway to Isla Coiba. Over the years, Santa Catalina has become a popular destination for surfers and divers, without losing any of its original charm. Isla Coiba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a true paradise for underwater enthusiasts. The island, once a prison, is now a national park and one of the best diving areas in the world. The crystal-clear waters offer an incredible variety of marine life, including sharks, rays and colourful schools of fish. But Isla Coiba is also an experience above water: lush rainforests, secluded beaches and impressive wildlife make the island an unforgettable destination.

Boquete: Coffee plantations and cool mountain air

After the sunny coastline, head to the cooler heights of Boquete, a small town in the Chiriquí Highlands. Boquete is famous for its coffee plantations, and a tour of one of these plantations is an absolute highlight. Here you can learn all about the coffee-making process, from plant to cup, and of course sample some of the best coffees in the world.

The region around Boquete also offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Hikes through the cloud forest, trips to waterfalls and climbing the Barú volcano, Panama’s highest point, are just some of the adventures that await you here. The fresh mountain air and spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains make Boquete the perfect end to this varied round trip.

From here, you can either travel back to Panama City or continue on to Costa Rica via David.

Panama map

Panama itinerary conclusion: a journey full of contrasts

A round trip through Panama is a journey full of contrasts. From the modern metropolis of Panama City to the untouched nature of Santa Catalina and Isla Coiba to the idyllic mountain landscape of Boquete, Panama offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for culture, nature or adventure, this trip will remain in your memory for a long time to come.

FAQ: Panama itinerary