Day Trips from Panama City

Nature, beaches, culture, and adventure — all within easy reach

Panama's compact geography puts an astonishing variety of landscapes within a few hours of the capital. Here are the best day trips you can take from Panama City, organized by what you're in the mood for.

Nature & Jungle

Embera Village & Waterfall tour in Panama 6 hours

Embera Village & Waterfall

Canoe up the Chagres River to an indigenous village. Traditional dance, crafts, and a jungle waterfall.

1.5 hr from city · All ages
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Monkey Island 6 hours

Monkey Island

Boat ride on Gatun Lake to meet capuchin and howler monkeys in their natural habitat.

1.5 hr from city · Family favorite
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El Valle de Anton 8 hours

El Valle de Anton

Mountain town in a volcanic crater. Waterfalls, hot springs, golden frogs, and an artisan market.

2 hr from city · Cooler climate
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Beaches & Islands

San Blas Islands 14 hours

San Blas Islands

Caribbean paradise with crystal-clear waters, white sand, and Guna Yala indigenous culture.

3 hr by 4x4 · Must-see
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Contadora Island 10 hours

Contadora Island

Pearl Islands getaway with pristine beaches, snorkeling, and a 1.5-hour ferry ride.

1.5 hr ferry · Snorkeling
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Taboga Island 7 hours

Taboga Island

The "Island of Flowers"—swimming, hiking, and a charming village. Easy ferry from Amador.

1 hr ferry · Family friendly
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Beach and kosher BBQ 7 hours

Beach & Kosher BBQ

Hidden beach paradise with water activities and a kosher BBQ lunch on the sand.

1.5 hr from city · Kosher meal included
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Whale watching 8 hours

Whale Watching

Seasonal humpback whale encounters in the Pacific. A spectacular experience (Jul–Oct).

Boat tour · Seasonal (Jul–Oct)
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Lake Gatun fishing 5 hours

Lake Gatun Fishing

Peacock bass and tarpon fishing on the Panama Canal's Gatun Lake.

1 hr from city · All levels
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Culture & History

Panama Canal transit 6 hours

Canal Transit by Ship

Board a vessel and transit through the Panama Canal locks from the water.

On the water · Bucket list
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La Granja adventure 6 hours

La Granja Adventure Park

Zip-lining, kayaking, horseback riding, and nature trails. Great for families and thrill-seekers.

1.5 hr from city · Family friendly
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Need Help Choosing a Day Trip?

Not sure which excursion is right for your group? We'll recommend the perfect day trip based on your interests, fitness level, and travel dates.

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