Panama Audio Tours
Best cities to visit in Panama
All tours and tickets in Panama
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Self-guided audio tour
2h
Panama's Historical Treasures: The Old Quarter In-App Audio Walk €7per tour|$0 for subscribersSelf-guided audio tour
2h
Discover Panama’s Heartbeat: In-App Audio Tour €10per tour|$0 for subscribersSelf-guided audio tour
2h
Casco Viejo, Panama: Historic Quarter Exploration €10per tour|$0 for subscribersSelf-guided audio tour
2h
Panama City Highlights: Private Walking Tour €10per tour|$0 for subscribersAbout Panama
When visiting Panama, the Panama Canal tops the list of must-see attractions, offering a glimpse into the remarkable feat of engineering. The historic ruins of Panama Viejo, Casco Viejo's charismatic streets, and the awe-inspiring biodiversity of the rainforests in national parks like Soberanía are also essential Panama attractions. The idyllic beaches of Bocas del Toro and the unique cultural experience of the San Blas Islands with the Kuna community further enrich the traveler's itinerary.
Families with children will enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Biomuseo and the fascinating Punta Culebra Nature Center, which provide educational fun. Panama activities for kids also include beach days at Playa Bonita, wildlife spotting during a canal eco-cruise, and embarking on the aerial tram adventure through the Gamboa rainforest. The Amador Causeway is perfect for a leisurely bike ride with panoramic views.
Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a plethora of activities such as hiking the trails of Barú Volcano National Park or diving in the clear waters of Coiba National Park. Surfing in Santa Catalina, zip-lining in Boquete, and snorkeling at Starfish Beach are among the best things to do in Panama for thrill-seekers. Kayaking in the Gatun Lake provides a unique perspective on the lush landscape.
For a break from the sun, the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center at the Panama Canal offers an inside look into the canal's operation. The Panama Interoceanic Canal Museum and the Afro-Antillean Museum are among the best indoor Panama tourist attractions, offering cultural and historical insights. Shoppers can explore the Albrook Mall, the largest shopping center in Panama.
For immersive experiences, the best tours in Panama include an essential trip through the Panama Canal, an Embera Village cultural tour, a guided exploration of the historical Casco Viejo, a coffee tasting tour in the Highlands, and island-hopping in the San Blas archipelago. Enrich your exploration with audio tours that tell the stories behind each destination as you visit.
The most popular museums include the Biomuseo with its focus on Panama’s biodiversity, the Panama Interoceanic Canal Museum chronicling the canal's incredible story, and the Museum of Contemporary Art showcasing modern works. History buffs will appreciate the Colonial Religious Art Museum, and children will be entertained at the interactive Explora Science Center.
On rainy days, visitors can enjoy indoor audio tours at the Biomuseo, Panama Interoceanic Canal Museum, or the Afro-Antillean Museum. Other rainproof activities include chocolate factory tours, shopping excursions, and culinary tours that offer a taste of Panama's diverse cuisine — perfect for a day when the tropical weather turns wet.
Best Things to Do In Panama
Embark on a journey through the vibrant country of Panama, uncovering top attractions and hidden gems with our self-guided tours.
Panama City: Panama Viejo
What is it?
The ruins of the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas.
Why you should go?
Visiting Panama Viejo is a journey back in time to the origins of Panama City. These remnants are a testament to the city's resilience, surviving pirate attacks and natural disasters. Exploring the archaeological site provides an in-depth understanding of the country's colonial history. As one of the best things to do in Panama, it combines education with scenic beauty, showcasing the juxtaposition of historic ruins amidst a modern cityscape.
Gamboa: Rainforest Discovery Center
What is it?
An eco-tourism attraction located within the lush Soberanía National Park.
Why you should go?
The Rainforest Discovery Center offers a close encounter with Panama's biodiversity. The aerial tram, observation tower, and nature trails allow visitors to appreciate the rich flora and fauna, including numerous bird species. This immersive experience is amongst the top Panama activities for nature lovers and bird-watchers. Few places offer such an accessible and educational exploration into the heart of a rainforest ecosystem.
Contadora Island: Playa Larga
What is it?
A stunning beach destination known for soft white sands and crystal-clear waters.
Why you should go?
Secluded from the hustle-bustle, Playa Larga on Contadora Island is a slice of paradise, ideal for relaxation and water sports. The inviting waters are perfect for snorkeling, revealing a vibrant marine life. As part of the Pearl Islands, it offers a less commercialized beach experience, ranking highly amongst tranquil places to visit in Panama for a day of sun and sea.
Isla Iguana: Wildlife Refuge
What is it?
A protected island sanctuary off the coast of Pedasí, famous for its wildlife and coral reefs.
Why you should go?
Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its white sandy beaches, coral reefs and the opportunity to spot humpback whales during migration season make it an exceptional Panama attraction. The island is named after its resident population of black iguanas, and its waters are teeming with tropical fish, making snorkeling and beachcombing here amongst the best things to do in Panama.
Volcan: Cero Punta
What is it?
A mountainous area known for its rich biodiversity and cool, refreshing climate.
Why you should go?
Nestled in the Chiriquí Highlands, Cero Punta is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Home to rare quetzal birds and other wildlife, it's a mecca for bird-watchers and hikers. The lush green landscapes offer an escape from the tropical heat and a chance to experience Panama's agritourism with its local coffee farms. Undoubtedly, it's part of the quintessential best things to do in Panama for those seeking a mountain retreat.
Panama City: Biomuseo
What is it?
An architectural marvel and biodiversity museum designed by Frank Gehry.
Why you should go?
Biomuseo stands as a vibrant celebration of Panama's ecological diversity and human history. Its interactive exhibits, showcasing Panama's role in shaping the earth's biodiversity, are a feast for the curious mind. With its colorful, avant-garde design, this museum is not only among the key Panama tourist attractions for its educational value but also an architectural landmark that captures the imagination, making it quintessential of what to do in Panama.
Santa Catalina: Coiba National Park
What is it?
A remote natural reserve and UNESCO World Heritage site, once an infamous prison island.
Why you should go?
Coiba National Park is a hidden gem offering some of the best things to do in Panama for outdoor adventurers and marine wildlife enthusiasts. Accessible from the small surf town of Santa Catalina, Coiba's rich ecosystems offer world-class snorkeling and diving experiences. It's an untouched paradise where exotic wildlife thrives both on land and underwater, making it an essential item on the roster of things to see in Panama.
Chiriquí Highlands: Finca Dracula Orchid Sanctuary
What is it?
A garden sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of rare and exotic orchids.
Why you should go?
Finca Dracula Orchid Sanctuary is a captivating attraction for those with an interest in botany and serene natural environments. Nestled in the cool climate of the Chiriquí Highlands, the sanctuary hosts one of the largest collections of orchids in Latin America. The variety and beauty of the flowers make it one of the top things to do in Panama, providing a unique and educational experience surrounded by tranquil highland scenery.
Panama City: Ancon Hill
What is it?
A natural landmark offering magnificent panoramic views of Panama City and the Canal.
Why you should go?
Ancon Hill stands as a bastion of nature amidst the urban landscape of Panama City. A hike to the top is rewarded with stunning vistas, making it one of the prime Panama activities for both tourists and locals. Spotting ships entering the Panama Canal, viewing the sprawling skyline, and encountering wildlife like sloths and toucans along the trails, add to the allure, solidifying its status as one of the best things to do in Panama.
Portobelo: San Lorenzo and Portobelo Forts
What is it?
Historical Spanish colonial fortifications on the Caribbean coast, rich with history.
Why you should go?
The forts of San Lorenzo and Portobelo are pivotal landmarks in Panama's colonial past. These fortresses, now evocative ruins, transport visitors back to the era of explorers and buccaneers. They are among the top things to do in Panama for history buffs and photographers alike, offering a chance to traverse through time amidst the cannons and battlements while also indulging in scenic views of the azure Caribbean Sea.
Panama City: The Panama Canal
What is it?
An iconic feat of human engineering connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
Why you should go?
The Panama Canal is not just a pivotal shipping route but also a symbol of ingenuity and determination. Observing ships traverse the locks offers a tangible sense of history and the monumental human effort involved in its construction. An adjacent museum and visitor center provide rich context, ensuring the Panama Canal is among the top things to do in Panama for those fascinated by industrial heritage and natural wonders alike.
Boquete: Barú Volcano National Park
What is it?
Panama's only volcano and one of its most challenging hikes.
Why you should go?
Barú Volcano National Park presents an adventure for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. It is one of the essential places to visit in Panama for panoramic views, with clear days offering sights of both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea from the summit. The park also boasts a diverse range of wildlife, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and ecological tours. The region's cooler climate provides a pleasant escape from the tropical heat.
Bocas del Toro: Starfish Beach
What is it?
A serene beach known for its clear waters and abundant starfish.
Why you should go?
Renowned for its tranquil ambiance and the specks of orange starfish dotting its shoreline, Starfish Beach is a must-see destination for sunbathers and snorkelers. The beach offers a great opportunity to unwind, and its shallow, calm waters make it family-friendly. Engaging in the Panama activities available here, such as paddleboarding or simply lounging on the white sands, are among the best things to do in Panama for visitors seeking to bask in the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
San Blas Islands: Archipelago de San Blas
What is it?
An idyllic archipelago boasting pristine beaches and indigenous culture.
Why you should go?
Famed for its crystal-clear waters, untouched coral reefs, and the fascinating Kuna Yala culture, the San Blas Islands are a paradisiacal retreat. As one of the most arresting Panama attractions, the archipelago invites visitors to relax on beach hammocks, engage with the welcoming Kuna community, and snorkel among vibrant marine life. These islands epitomize a pristine, tranquil escape, making them an ultimate addition to the list of what to see in Panama.
El Valle de Anton: The Sleeping Indian Girl
What is it?
A nature hike offering stunning vistas, named after a local legend.
Why you should go?
La India Dormida, or The Sleeping Indian Girl, is a series of hills resembling the shape of a woman lying down. Situated in the lush El Valle de Anton, the hike to the top is a favorite for those exploring the best things to do in Panama. With its rich biodiversity, unique geographical features like a volcanic crater, and the charming local markets, this attraction encapsulates the variety of experiences available in Panama's picturesque landscapes.
TOP-5 Free Tours in Panama
- Discover the historical allure of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and delve into its colonial architecture and lively plazas.
- Stroll along the Amador Causeway, taking in the breathtaking views of Panama Bay and the Bridge of the Americas while learning about the area's development.
- Explore the natural beauty of Metropolitan Natural Park, a tropical paradise offering rich insights into Panama's diverse flora and fauna.
- Unravel the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks, where the audio tour illuminates the intricate workings and history.
- Immerse yourself in Panama's vibrant indigenous cultures with a tour around the Guna Yala region, known for its colorful textiles and traditions.