Our Top Day Trips From Panama City, Panama in 2024

Working in the Panama real estate business has given us a unique perspective on everything this amazing country has to offer. This month, we’re excited to share “Our Top Day Trips From Panama City, Panama in 2024.” Our team has highlighted their personal picks, ranging from popular spots within the city to hidden gems in the country’s interior.

This guide aims to be your trusted companion for exploring the best day trips around Panama City, Panama. With a heartfelt dedication to showcasing the beauty of Panama, we hope this post inspires your next Panama day trip in 2024!

#1 Sora, Altos del Maria: if you have all day to take a trip or to do fun activities, what will they be? If you want an adventure, family-friendly Sora is the spot! Waterfalls!

Catherine Lefebvre: Beach and Mountain Sales Associate | Marketing Manager

Cascada El Manglarito: with a convenient forest path, access is a breeze. Moreover, entry is $3 per adult on weekends and free on weekdays. Plus, it’s just a 5-minute drive from Sora and less than a 10-minute walk to reach the waterfall. Easy to find, easy to access!

Cascada La Nativa: Get ready for a family-friendly adventure! First off, it’s just a short 20-25 minute walk to reach an amazing waterfall. Plus, the entrance fee is $3. Also, if you’re up for it, you can drive closer with a 4×4, but regular shoes work too. Plus, this waterfall is even more spectacular than the last one. But hey, it’s a 25-minute drive from Sora. No worries though, as the person at the entrance can send their kids to guide you!

Chorro La Poma: on the way to El Valle, there’s a cool waterfall! About 10-15 minutes before reaching El Valle, you’ll come across this awesome waterfall spot. Locals typically charge $2 or $3 per car for a ‘car check.’ After that, it’s just a 15-minute walk to get to the waterfall!

#2 Panama City: one of my favorite places to explore in Panama is none other than the city itself. With its culture, history, and vistas, the city has something for everyone!

Ada Ortega: Property Administration

Morning (Breakfast/Brunch)

El Trapiche in Vía Argentina: serves up a delicious Panamanian breakfast with puff pastry, American cheese, tortilla, stewed sausage, and more, making it a standout for local cuisine.

Petit Paris Ocean Deck at JW Marriott (Old Trump): is a cozy French bakery/restaurant, with a stunning view of the Panamanian skyline. They have a varied menu of delicious food and drinks.

Noon (Lunch): Panama Canal: a must-see, where you can enjoy a tour of approximately 2 hours. Start your experience with a documentary narrated by Morgan Freeman, followed by a detailed tour showcasing the history and operation of the locks. Make sure you check the website for boat passage times!

Walk through Casco Viejo: from 4:00 p.m., wandering through the Old Town unveils the coolest spots. The tour typically lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour, offering a true glimpse into local culture.

Afternoon-Night (Dinner):

Lazotea Casco: to end the day, I would recommend visiting Lazotea Casco, a rooftop bar with a spectacular view. It is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset while tasting exquisite cocktails and delicious dishes. Visit their Instagram Page here.

Filomena Restaurant: another awesome way to wrap up the evening is by heading to the Italian restaurant Filomena on Av. Balboa. Don’t forget to check out their Instagram page!

#3 La Yeguada, Veragua: La Yeguada is in Calobre, Veraguas, a special place, ideal for visitors who want to spend their free time in nature, walking, swimming and relaxing in the highlands.

Ysmely Perez: Property administration

Panama is a country full of beautiful places to enjoy. In particular, I love camping with my family, in places where we can spend a weekend full of peace and relaxation.

#4 El Valle: I would start the day on a Sunday Morning, wake up at 7 am….pick up the family and pets and head to El Valle…On the Way there…I like stopping in Chorrera to grab a quick Panamanian breakfast in Chichemes El Chorro or Delicias Margot.

Ruben Nuñez: Sales and Leasing

Once I get to El Valle, I find parking near the town’s Public Fruit and Souvenir Market. My wife and I love to look at different souvenirs and plants for sale and we’ve made friends among the souvenir sellers. They are nice and helpful! 

After a while, we find a nice spot to have lunch. We’ve tried several restaurants in the area, one of them is PAUSA CAFE. They do a great job and you don’t spend much time waiting for your meal. 

Afterward, we might stop by Aguas Termales El Valle Resort and Spa for a quick dive and relaxing mud bath or thermal water dive or go to El Nispero Zoo if we feel like just walking a while (bring your raincoat in case it starts drizzling or “bajarequeando” as they call it here in Panama).

After we have relaxed in the area, and before we leave we love a hot cup of chocolate or coffee at La Divina Comedia. They have a lovely restaurant with views of the forest. If it rains, they have a tarp over the outdoor seating area to keep you dry so you can still enjoy your day.

With that, we set ourselves to go back into Panama City…with our batteries re-charged! 

#5 Isla Mamey: If I have the whole day available, I choose to visit Isla Mamey located in the province of Colón. It is approximately 2 hours by car from Panama City and about 69km.

Ramses Arguelles: Director, Property Management

At Mamey Island, you can spend a full day at the beach, enjoy good food, and explore other islands at affordable prices with locals. Plus, on your way back, you can also visit the Portobelo ruins and delve into Columbus’s history.

#6 Parque Metropolitano or Cerro Ancón: If I had a day in Panama, I would start early with a visit to Parque Metropolitano or Cerro Ancón to enjoy a walk and admire nature and animals.

Valery Valderrama: Real Estate Consultant 

Afterwards, I would head to Casco Antiguo for breakfast. Then, I’d spend the morning exploring the many museums. Next, I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to try a delicious raspado in Plaza Francia and capture the city from the viewpoint of the padlocks. Later on, to top off the afternoon, I would go up to the 64th floor of the JW Marriott to enjoy some cocktails and watch the stunning sunset.

#7 Amador: One of my favorite places to go for a quick day trip is the Amador Causeway. Renting a bicycle or just taking a relaxing walk along the causeway is the best way to see the ships passing through the Panama Canal with an awesome view of Panama’s modern skyline. 

Matthew Marx: Luxury Real Estate Expert

The Causeway has dozens of different restaurants to choose from along with smaller stands where the kids like to load up on sweets like raspao’, a Panamanian version of a snow cone.

The splash pad is the perfect way to cool down before heading back home. 

Our team’s top spot for a day out in Panama truly captures the essence of the country. Their insights highlight the mix of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation that make Panama special. From beaches to markets to local cuisine, every aspect reflects our team’s experiences. Whether exploring Panama City or the countryside, Panama offers an unforgettable journey. So, take heed of our team’s contributions and dive into the charm of this diverse destination. Where is your favorite place to spend a day in Panama?