Destination: Panama

LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL GUIDEBOOK INFORMATION

Getting Started

Although Panama is a fine country for spontaneous adventuring, you’ll get more out of your trip if you do some planning before you go. There are several destinations in particular that are quite popular, and it’s unwise to show up without reservations. This is especially true in Bocas del Toro, which is currently the top destination in the country. If you plan to visit the Comarca de Kuna Yala, try to reserve your flight out to the islands as early as possible. Currently, Aeroperlas is the only carrier flying there, and demand far exceeds supply.
(Hint: you can reserve online at www.aeroperlas.com.)

If you’re planning on making a trip to one of Ancon’s lodges in the Parque Nacional Darién – one of the world’s great places to see wildlife – you’ll need to book far in advance. That also holds true of Isla Barro Colorado, an outpost for the Smithsonian’s Tropical Research Institute.

Panama is a country for any budget. There is a plethora of budget accommodations around the country and many decent, inexpensive restaurants. At the other end of the scale, there are five-star lodges overlooking the sea and charming B&Bs tucked away in the mountains. The only thing limiting you on a trip to this vibrant country is your imagination.

DON`T LEAVE WITHOUT...

Learning at least a few basic phrases in Spanish.
A poncho for rainy days and wet boat trips.
A mosquito net for trips into the jungle – or a night’s rest in well-ventilated quarters.
Decent insect repellent (30–50% DEET).
A flashlight (torch).
Binoculars, if you’re planning to do any bird watching.
Sun protection – sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat.
Warm clothes for chilly nights in the mountains.
An ATM card or a Visa/MasterCard with (known) pin number.
An alarm clock for catching early-morning flights (to/from Comarca de Kuna Yala, for instance).
An appetite for fresh seafood.

Travelling to Panama?
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