Panama

© Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo

BEYOND THE FAMOUS CANAL

At the junction of the two Americas, Panama offers a vibrant and authentic destination, a gateway between Western culture and the laid-back Latin way of life. The country is home to incredibly diverse nature, forming a tropical paradise less frequented than its neighbour Costa Rica. Hikers and lovers of flora and fauna will take the trails through the jungle to observe monkeys, iguanas, toucans or the legendary quetzal. Off the Caribbean coast, the San Blas Islands and the archipelago of Bocas del Toro unroll their paradise beaches, refuges for abundant marine life. The Panamanian interior is also well worth a detour: the mountains of Chiriqui rise above the coffee plantations, along with the volcano Barú at the height; the Chagres National Park invites you to share the rich knowledge of the Emberá people regarding the exhilarating nature that surrounds them. While everyone knows the famous Panama Canal, the country's iconic attraction, do not miss a stroll through the alleyways of the old town of Panama City to feel the strong Spanish colonial heritage. The charm also works on the side of Portobelo, a peaceful fishing village, and to San Lorenzo where the fortifications built by the Spanish colonists are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

WHEN TO VISIT PANAMA

WHALE WATCHING

July to October

DRY SEASON

December to April

WATCHING TURTLES LAYING EGGS

July to January

OUR ADDRESSES IN PANAMA

Dry Islands

Panama - Chiriquí

Style : An exclusive and spectacular ecolodge established on an archipelago of 14 volcanic islets Location : Off the Pacific coast, in the Gulf of Chiriquí, 1 hour's flight from Panama City Capacity : 7 cottages with one to four bedrooms & a brand new exceptional villa, inviting you to commune with the natural elements Highlights : Explore one of the world's richest marine environments from an intimate retreat accessible to a handful of travellers

Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo

Panama - Panama City

Style : A building from 1917 tastefully and elegantly restored in a Franco-Panamanian spirit Location : In the heart of Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic district Capacity : 159 colonial-inspired Rooms & Suites, most featuring a balcony with sea views Highlights : The hotel blends old-world charm, luxurious facilities, and attentive service in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage district.

PLUS

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PRACTICAL GUIDE

ENTRANCE AND SECURITY

- No visa required for a short stay
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your departure date

CLIMATE

- Dry season from December to April
- Rainy season from May to November
- Tropical climate with warm temperatures
- Cooler temperatures in the regions of Chiriquí, Boquete, El Valle

TIME DIFFERENCE

- Panama is on GMT-5
- In summer, -7h time difference
- In winter, -6h time difference

LANGUAGE

- Spanish is the official language
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas

HEALTH & VACCINATION

- Vaccination record update
- Anti-malarial treatment in certain regions
- Yellow fever vaccination recommended for stays east of the Panama Canal Zone and compulsory for travellers coming from an infected area

CURRENCY

- The currency is the Balboa, pegged to the US dollar
- 1 PAB = €0.84 (July 2025)

ELECTRICITY

- 110 volts
- Sockets for American-style flat 2-pin plugs
- Await an adapter

TIP

- Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated
- 10 $ per person per day for the guides
- 5 $ per person per day for drivers

As this information may change, we invite you to consult
The website of your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Ethical luxury travel specialist LUXeTHIKA creates exceptional bespoke trips to Panama