If you’re planning a trip to Panama City, you’re in for a treat. This bustling city is full of culture, history, and adventure. But sometimes, it’s nice to get out of the city and explore the surrounding areas. Luckily, there are plenty of great day trips you can take from Panama City. Here are the 7 best day trips from Panama City.
Taboga Island
Taboga Island is a great day trip option if you’re looking to relax and enjoy some beach time. It’s just a short boat ride from Panama City and has several beautiful beaches to choose from. The island also has a small town that’s worth exploring, with colorful buildings and local restaurants.
San Blas Islands
If you’re up for a longer day trip, the San Blas Islands are a must-see. This archipelago is made up of over 300 islands, each with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. You can take a boat tour to see some of the islands and even spend some time snorkeling or diving.
Gamboa Rainforest
If you’re interested in nature and wildlife, the Gamboa Rainforest is a great day trip option. It’s just a short drive from Panama City and has plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities. You can even take a boat tour on the Panama Canal to see ships passing through.
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton is a charming town located in the crater of an extinct volcano. It’s known for its natural beauty, including hot springs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The town also has a market selling local crafts and produce.
Soberania National Park
Soberania National Park is another great option for nature lovers. It’s located along the Panama Canal and has over 500 species of birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. You can also hike through the rainforest and spot monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife.
Portobelo
Portobelo is a historic town located on the Caribbean coast of Panama. It’s known for its Spanish colonial architecture and the ruins of several forts that were built to protect the town from pirates. You can explore the town’s history at the Portobelo National Park and visit nearby beaches.
Panama Canal
Finally, no trip to Panama City is complete without a visit to the Panama Canal. You can take a boat tour to see the canal in action and learn about its history and importance. You can also visit the Panama Canal Museum and the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center.
Conclusion
Panama City is a great destination in its own right, but these day trip options give you the chance to explore more of what Panama has to offer. Whether you’re looking for nature, history, or just some beach time, there’s something for everyone within a short distance of the city.
FAQs
- How far is Taboga Island from Panama City? Taboga Island is just a short boat ride from Panama City, taking around 30-45 minutes each way.
- Can you snorkel at the San Blas Islands? Yes, the San Blas Islands are known for their snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- How long does it take to drive to El Valle de Anton from Panama City? The drive to El Valle de Anton takes around 2 hours from Panama City.
- What is the best time of year to visit Soberania National Park? The best time to visit Soberania National Park is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
- How long is a boat tour of the Panama Canal? The length of a boat tour of the Panama Canal varies, but most tours last around 1-2 hours.
- Is it possible to visit all of these day trip destinations in one trip? It would be difficult to visit all of these day trip destinations in one trip due to their distance from each other. It’s best to choose a few that interest you the most and plan accordingly.
- Can you visit Portobelo on your own or do you need a tour guide? You can visit Portobelo on your own, but a tour guide can provide more information about the town’s history and point out important landmarks.