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Love Contrasts and Coastlines?
Panama Delivers Both
We’d love to help you plan your perfect trip
Where Oceans Meet and Cultures Collide
Panama is more than the canal. It’s a fascinating blend of cosmopolitan city life, tropical islands, wild rainforests and Indigenous heritage. Stretching between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, this compact country offers a wealth of experiences in every direction.
Start your journey in Panama City, a buzzing capital where gleaming towers sit beside colonial streets and coastal promenades. Cruise through the iconic Panama Canal or escape to the San Blas Islands, where turquoise water laps against untouched white sand and the Guna people preserve their traditions.
Inland, Panama’s highlands are rich with coffee plantations, waterfalls and cloud forests. Spot sloths and toucans in Soberanía National Park or dive off the Pacific coast around Coiba, a UNESCO-listed marine park teeming with sea life. Wherever you go, warm smiles and authentic encounters await.
With Nexus Travel, your Panama itinerary is crafted to your style. Choose a city and beach combination, a nature-based adventure, or a cultural route through hidden corners. We’ll handle the logistics so you can focus on discovery.
Let us show you Panama — a place where diversity, beauty and surprise meet at every turn.
Suggested Trips and Tours
Explore our hand-picked selection of suggested trips and tours, designed to help you experience the very best each destination has to offer.
Darién National Park
Living Indigenous Culture
Island Escape Paradise
Coffee Highlands Tour
Wander through lush highland plantations, learn the art of coffee cultivation, and sample Panama’s finest brews amidst the misty mountain landscapes of the country’s premier coffee region.
Panama Canal Experience
Top Hotels
Explore our curated collection of top hotels, where exceptional comfort meets refined style. Hand-picked for their outstanding service, prime locations and unique character, these properties offer more than just a place to stay – they elevate your entire travel experience.
The Bristol Panama
Finca Lerida Plantation & Hotel
InterContinental Miramar Panama
JW Marriott Panama
Nayara Bocas del Toro
An exclusive, adults-only overwater retreat blending barefoot luxury with sustainability. Enjoy private villas, crystal-clear waters, fine dining, and serene Caribbean seclusion on a lush private island in Bocas del Toro.
Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge
Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino
Waldorf Astoria Panama
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We’ll Contact YouUseful Information for your trip to Panama
Entry Requirements
UK citizens can visit Panama for up to 180 days without a visa. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your stay. Proof of onward travel may be requested upon arrival.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season runs from December to April and is ideal for beaches, city exploration, and rainforest adventures. The green season, from May to November, brings lush scenery and fewer crowds.
Vaccinations
No vaccines are mandatory unless arriving from a country with yellow fever risk. Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Always check with a travel health professional before departure.
Currency
Panama uses the Balboa (PAB), which is pegged to the US Dollar. In practice, US Dollars are used everywhere. Cards are accepted in most places, but cash is useful in rural areas.
Language
Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in hotels and tourist areas, particularly in Panama City. Basic Spanish is helpful for exploring smaller towns and islands.
Electricity
Panama uses 110V power with plug types A and B. UK visitors will need an adaptor. Electricity is widely available, although some remote islands may have limited access.
Panama Canal
Visit the world-famous canal and watch ships pass through this engineering marvel. The Miraflores Locks visitor centre offers fantastic views and exhibits.
Casco Viejo
This beautifully restored colonial district of Panama City is filled with vibrant plazas, rooftop bars, historic churches, and colourful facades.
Bocas del Toro
This Caribbean island chain is known for its relaxed vibe, clear turquoise waters, and opportunities for snorkelling, surfing, and wildlife spotting.
San Blas Islands
Over 350 picture-perfect islands governed by the Guna people. Visit for pristine beaches, simple overwater cabanas, and authentic cultural experiences.
Boquete
A peaceful mountain town surrounded by cloud forests, coffee farms, and waterfalls. It’s a favourite spot for hiking, birdwatching, and cooler weather.
Gamboa Rainforest
Explore tropical biodiversity just outside the capital. Canal boat rides, hanging bridges, and sloth sightings await in this easily accessible jungle region.
Getting Around
Domestic flights connect major regions. Buses and shuttles are common, and taxis are affordable in cities. Boat taxis are used for island access in places like Bocas del Toro and San Blas.
Packing Tips
Bring light breathable clothing, good walking shoes, insect repellent, swimwear, and a rain jacket. A dry bag and waterproof sandals are great for boat-based destinations.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi is widely available in cities and tourist hubs. Mobile coverage is good overall, though some remote islands and rural areas may have limited service.
Health & Safety
Bottled water is recommended in most places. Tap water is safe in Panama City but varies elsewhere. Medical care is good in urban areas, with private clinics available for travellers.
Local Etiquette
Politeness and modest dress are appreciated. In Indigenous communities, ask permission before taking photos and follow local customs when visiting villages.
Sustainable Travel
Choose community-based tours, support local businesses, and respect marine conservation zones. Some islands are plastic-free, so bring reusable bottles and bags.
Canal Legacy
The Panama Canal opened in 1914 and remains one of the most important waterways in global trade. It links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the country’s narrowest point.
Two Oceans
Panama is one of the few countries where you can swim in the Pacific and Caribbean on the same day, with travel between coasts taking just a few hours.
Indigenous Cultures
Panama is home to several Indigenous groups, including the Guna, Emberá, and Ngäbe peoples. Many maintain traditional ways of life and welcome respectful cultural visits.
Biodiversity Hotspot
Panama is part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, rich in tropical wildlife. Expect to see toucans, sloths, monkeys, and even jaguars in protected areas.
Birdwatcher's Paradise
With over 970 recorded bird species, Panama is one of the best places in the world for birdwatching. The Pipeline Road near Gamboa is a favourite among enthusiasts.
No Currency Confusion
Although Panama has its own currency, the Balboa, US Dollars are used interchangeably. Notes are in USD and coins may be Panamanian or American.
Personal Specialist
Expert travel advisor from start to finish
- Direct access to your travel specialist
- Consistent support for all your bookings
- Tailored advice based on your profile
- Responsive help for all your concerns
- Reliable contact throughout your journey
- Trusted expert guiding every next step
Tailored Itineraries
Every journey shaped just for your style
- Plans designed around your expectations
- Custom routes built with care and detail
- Itineraries focused on your interests
- Schedules refined to fit your timing
- Balanced pacing throughout the trip
- Trips planned for meaning and comfort
Continuous Improvement
Constantly refining how we support you
- Feedback-driven changes every season
- Lessons learned improve every detail
- Refined processes through experience
- Team development fuels better results
- Reviews drive smarter planning always
- We update your journey with insight
NEXUS Benefits
Perks and upgrades exclusive to NEXUS
- Complimentary upgrades where available
- Priority reservations secured for you
- Partner deals with extra added value
- Private access to premium experiences
- Special offers for returning travellers
- Loyalty rewarded with every journey
End-to-End Support
Complete travel help at every step
- Planning to follow-up, fully handled
- 24/7 support whenever it's needed
- Pre-checks for all essential documents
- Live help for any travel disruptions
- Support continues after you return
- Every detail managed start to end
Trusted Partners
We choose only trusted travel experts
- Fully accredited suppliers worldwide
- Partners meet strict service standards
- Vetted through years of shared success
- Backed by consistent client feedback
- Trusted by us and our customers alike
- Reviewed regularly for quality control
Getting to Panama
International Flights: Direct flights from London to Panama City are available seasonally. More options connect via Madrid, Amsterdam or US hubs.
Preferred Airlines: Iberia offers direct services in peak months. KLM, Air France and United provide excellent one‑stop options.
Visa Requirements: UK passport holders do not need a visa for tourism stays up to 180 days. Entry is straightforward with valid passport and onward ticket.
Entry Documents: Passports must be valid throughout your stay. Proof of onward travel and local accommodation may be requested at immigration.
Travel with Nexus: We coordinate flights, airport fast‑track services and transfers so your arrival is seamless and comfortable.
Arrival Support: You will be greeted on arrival and escorted through customs. Private transfers will bring you to your accommodation quickly and easily.
Getting Around Panama
Domestic Flights: Small flights connect Panama City with Bocas del Toro, David and Puerto Obaldía. Useful for saving time on longer journeys.
Private Transfers: Private cars and drivers are recommended for travel to jungles, highlands or beaches. Comfortable and reliable for multi‑stop trips.
Car Hire: Driving is on the right with a UK licence accepted. Good roads on the Pan‑American Highway though rural roads may be rough after rain.
Buses & Coaches: Long‑distance buses are modern and economical. Metro Bus is excellent in Panama City. Shuttles are easy to book between tourist sites.
Canal Transit: Choose river taxis or private boat tours to explore Panama Canal locks at Miraflores or Gatun. A scenic and informative addition to your itinerary.
Tailored Routes: We design combined air, road and water transport plans so you enjoy every highlight without any hassle.
FAQs
Where is Panama and why should I visit?
What are the must-visit places in Panama?
When is the best time to visit Panama?
What can I do in Panama besides sightseeing?
Where can I combine Panama with for a twin-centre holiday?
What should I absolutely not miss?
What kind of accommodation can I expect in Panama?
Panama offers a wide range of accommodation, from modern city hotels and boutique colonial inns to eco-lodges and beachside bungalows. In Panama City, you’ll find everything from international luxury chains to trendy boutique stays. Rural and coastal areas provide eco-friendly lodges and charming guesthouses. The San Blas Islands offer simple huts and rustic cabanas, often run by local communities. Standards are generally good, and service is friendly. Booking ahead is recommended in peak travel seasons.
Is Panama suitable for families and first-time travellers?
Yes, Panama is suitable for families and first-time visitors. It’s a safe, welcoming country with a manageable size, making travel between destinations relatively easy. Many activities are family-friendly, such as wildlife tours, beach days and canal excursions. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and infrastructure is well developed in most regions. First-time travellers will appreciate the country’s diversity of experiences and mix of comfort and adventure.
What should I know before I go?
Final inspiration – Why Panama?
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