Destination: Panama

LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL GUIDEBOOK INFORMATION

When to Go

Panama’s high tourist season corresponds with its Pacific-side dry season – from mid-December to mid-April. During these months, there is relatively little rain in Panama City and elsewhere south of the Continental Divide. North of the mountains, on the Caribbean side of Panama, it rains all year-round. However, it tends to rain less in February, March, September and October than it does the rest of the year.

The best time to visit Panama really depends on what you plan to do. If you intend to spend most of your time on the Pacific side, you might want to visit in December or January, when there’s generally little rain and the weather is pleasant. Bear in mind, however, that hotel prices and airfares are generally higher from mid-December to mid-April. If you’ll be doing any serious hiking, the dry season is the most comfortable time to do it. For planning purposes, be aware that Panama’s mountains can get very cold at night; if you’re considering camping at altitude (in Boquete, El Valle or Cerro Punta, for example), be sure to bring warm clothing.

Some of Panama’s colorful festivals draw large crowds. The Península de Azuero is very popular for its Carnaval (Mardi Gras) – the celebrations held on the four days leading up to Ash Wednesday. Panama City’s Carnaval is also popular (and one of the world’s largest). Hotel reservations during Carnaval are a must and should be made well in advance. Panama has a number of other festivals worth catching, especially on the Península de Azuero.

Travelling to Panama?
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