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Panama

Panama, a land where vibrant cultures converge, offers an eclectic tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. Situated at the crossroads of North and South America, this country is the perfect blend of cosmopolitan cities and untouched nature. For those eager to explore, knowing where to visit in Panama can reveal an adventure that spans centuries and landscapes.

Discover captivating tours of Panama, where vibrant culture meets breathtaking landscapes.

Panama, a land where vibrant cultures converge, offers an eclectic tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. Situated at the crossroads of North and South America, this country is the perfect blend of cosmopolitan cities and untouched nature. For those eager to explore, knowing where to visit in Panama can reveal an adventure that spans...

Panama, a land where vibrant cultures converge, offers an eclectic tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. Situated at the crossroads of North and South America, this country is the perfect blend of cosmopolitan cities and untouched nature. For those eager to explore, knowing where to visit in Panama can reveal an adventure that spans centuries and landscapes.

Unveiling Panama City

Your journey begins in the bustling capital, Panama City, a metropolis that's as rich in history as it is in modern marvels. The city’s backdrop is a striking skyline of gleaming skyscrapers standing proudly beside the historical ruins of Panama Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Not to be missed is the awe-inspiring Panama Canal, a feat of engineering that has connected oceans and cultures for over a century.

Stroll through the charming streets of Casco Viejo, the historic district. Here, colonial architecture houses everything from boutique hotels to quaint cafes, offering a delightful blend of heritage and contemporary flair. From the vibrant murals to the salsa melodies echoing through the plazas, every corner of this district tells a story.

Escape into Nature at Boquete

For those yearning for a natural escape, head to Boquete, nestled in the lush highlands of the Chiriquí Province. Known as Panama’s adventure capital, it’s a haven for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether it's hiking the Quetzal Trail, one of the most scenic paths in Central America, or zip-lining across its cloud forests, Boquete promises an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Savour the region’s renowned coffee, grown in the fertile volcanic soils of the area, and embark on a coffee plantation tour to learn about its journey from bean to cup. Boquete’s temperate climate and stunning vistas offer the perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

Visit the San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are an idyllic paradise comprising over 360 islands and cays. Home to the indigenous Guna people, this archipelago is a must for those looking for a serene escape far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. The pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life provide the ideal setting for snorkeling and island hopping.

Immerse yourself in Guna culture, learning about their customs and craftsmanship. Staying in a traditional thatched-roof cabana, you’ll find a deep sense of tranquility amidst the sound of gentle waves and whispering palms.

Explore the Highlands of Bocas del Toro

A short flight from the mainland takes you to Bocas del Toro, an archipelago off Panama’s Caribbean coast known for its stunning biodiversity and vibrant marine life. From diving and snorkeling among coral reefs to exploring the rich rainforests, there’s no shortage of activities that connect you with nature in its purest form.

Famed for its laid-back vibe, this destination strikes a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Visit Isla Colón for its vibrant nightlife or head to the quieter Isla Bastimentos to explore the natural beauty of Red Frog Beach and the Bastimentos National Marine Park.

Discover the Cultural Richness of the Azuero Peninsula

The Azuero Peninsula, often referred to as the "Cultural Heart of Panama," is steeped in tradition and folklore. Known for its lively festivals and artisan crafts, this region provides a colorful insight into Panamanian culture. Visit the picturesque towns of Las Tablas and Pedasí to experience the local craftsmanship, where intricate hand-crafted pottery and masks come to life.

Join in the festivities during Carnival, celebrated extravagantly here with music, dancing, and parades. This region offers a glimpse into the timeless traditions that continue to thrive amidst modern influences.

Embrace the unknown and set your sights on Panama for an unforgettable journey. With its mixture of cosmopolitan allure, rich heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Panama invites you to explore its depths through captivating tours of Panama. Whether you're tracing history in Panama City or unwinding on the shores of Bocas del Toro, the best places to visit in Panama promise to leave you enchanted and inspired.

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What do the experts say?

Amanda De Oliveira

Amanda De Oliveira

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
U.S. dollars are used interchangeably with Panamanian balboas (at a 1:1 rate). There’s no need to exchange currency if you’re carrying U.S. cash.
Amanda De Oliveira

Amanda De Oliveira

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Many assume Panama is just about the canal. In reality, it’s also a paradise for beaches, highlands, and indigenous culture — from Caribbean islands like the San Blas to the coffee region of Boquete.
Amanda De Oliveira

Amanda De Oliveira

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Panama has more bird species than the United States and Canada combined — over 1,000. For birdwatchers, it’s one of the richest destinations in the world.
Samy Koussa

Samy Koussa

Team Lead
Learn More About This Expert
A visit to an Emberá indigenous village along the Chagres River is a cultural highlight — arriving by dugout canoe, sharing traditional food, and learning about their way of life in the rainforest.
Samy Koussa

Samy Koussa

Team Lead
Learn More About This Expert
Globetrotters should ensure they visit Isla Coiba, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a penal colony, today it’s one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the Americas, often compared to the Galápagos for its marine biodiversity.

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We had a great 3 week trip to India! It was wonderful and very well planned! Goway had obviously visited each hotel, attraction, and even each rest stop along the way. Everywhere we went we had Goway representatives, local tour guides, and a dedicated driver. We were very well taken care of and it was an amazing experience! Thank you Harpreet!Nathanael Butler
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Brooke from Goway Travel was really great to work with. There was 12 of us travelling and we weren’t all travelling on the exact same itinerary. Brooke worked hard to keep us all organized. She facilitated all the bookings and flights for an African safari and further travel for some after that. The safari out of Nairobi was excellent. Would definitely use Goway Travel and Brooke again. Karen G
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Goway Travel is one of the best travel companies that my family have used to book a vacation. We worked with Leo Li, a travel agent at Goway to plan a 12 day tour to China called Scenic China: Mountain, Rivers, and Rice Terraces in October, 2026. From the start, the communication was clear and helpful. Leo listened to what we wanted and added a day before the start of the tour and a day at the end of the tour which was requested, booked great hotels, and took the stress completely out of booking flights and transfers. When an order for tea that was purchased during the tour and not delivered as scheduled, Leo contacted the tea company to insure that the tea order had been shipped. An entire detailed itinerary was sent to me giving the dates and activity of each day, when and where the local guides were to meet us at each location whether at an airport, train station, or hotel . Goway provided me with a customer helpline to call for guidance, help coordinating services, or urgent assistance. Leo did an outstanding job of putting together a memorable tour and we would happily recommend Goway to anyone looking for a seamless vacation.Howard T
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I will always use GoWay when I travel. And especially use my agent Bijal Kana. You never feel unsafe and your transfers and itinerary are amazing. This is my second trip with Goway, having gone to Egypt with them and having an amazing experience. I’ve now traveled to China and also had an amazing experience. The only thing I would improve is that some of the quality of the restaurants were less than I would have expected, sometimes feeling like you’re in a fast food restaurant ..I’m not sure if that’s controlled by go away or the local tour managers. But as far as driving and transportation in the itinerary, it was perfectly planned. The hotels also were top-notch. The tour guides also guide you securely in airports and trains to make sure that you are safely placed in the right area. If i had anything to improve on, it would be the restaurant quality, I expected more of a four or five star restaurant experience, which I would say 75% of the time I felt like we were in a very nice restaurant. Which made me think it was up to our tour guide that chose the restaurants. There were a few times that was extremely disappointed on the location and the restaurant experience. But other times I felt like it was the best place in the world they could’ve chosen so I’m not sure. Please don’t take this as anything against go away. I would definitely use them every time I travel. I wish I could directly submit a review on each tour guide in each location, which would be much more specific on how the experience went. Maybe in the future they will give a more in-depth survey on each tour guide that you interact with and their choices and their touring style. That being said I still give the trip a 95%. Marina Pender
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This Kenya adventure was my second trip to Africa with Goway, and once again, my go-to Africa specialist, Alexandra Hale, worked her magic. She helped create a thoughtfully planned itinerary that included all the must-see highlights of Kenya, with the perfect blend of luxury and adventure. Our custom journey took us from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara, on to Amboseli National Park at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, and finally to the beautiful Kenyan coast along the Indian Ocean. Along the way, we stayed at outstanding accommodations, including the Tamarind Tree Hotel in Nairobi, the Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge, and the Baobab Beach Resort & Spa in Diani. Every destination offered incredible experiences, but if I could change one thing, I would have added an extra day at the beach to enjoy the coast a little longer. The in-destination support provided by the Sense of Africa team was exceptional. Their knowledgeable guides enhanced our experience at every stop and ensured everything ran smoothly throughout the trip. One of my most memorable experiences was the hot-air-balloon safari over the Maasai Mara. Seeing wildlife from above at sunrise was truly breathtaking. The experience was made even more special with a freshly prepared champagne breakfast in the bush after landing. This was another unforgettable African adventure, and I’m already looking forward to returning to the continent. When it’s time to plan my next trip, Goway will be my first call.ABanks
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Exceptional Service from Leo Liu at Goway Travel Our recent 16-day private journey through China was an extraordinary experience, thanks in large part to Leo Liu of Goway Travel, who worked closely with me to create a truly personalized itinerary. What I appreciated most about Leo was his willingness to collaborate with me throughout the planning process. I had very specific ideas about the destinations, luxury accommodations, cultural experiences, and activities we wanted to include. Rather than simply offering a standard tour package, Leo listened carefully to my preferences, offered valuable suggestions, and worked patiently with me to refine every detail. Our journey took us through Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guilin and Yangshuo, and Hong Kong. Each destination offered something special, from China’s magnificent historical landmarks to its vibrant modern cities and breathtaking countryside. The accommodations were thoughtfully selected, including the Peninsula Beijing, Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai, and the beautiful Sugar House in Yangshuo. We particularly enjoyed the unique experiences woven into our itinerary, including the spectacular Gong Yan performance in Shanghai and the scenic beauty of Yangshuo. What made Leo exceptional was that he understood the kind of travel experience we wanted. He respected my input, welcomed my suggestions, and helped transform my ideas into a seamless and memorable journey. Planning a complex private trip requires considerable coordination, and his professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail were greatly appreciated. Having traveled extensively, we value a travel advisor who does more than arrange hotels and transportation. We appreciate someone who genuinely collaborates with us to create meaningful experiences. Leo Liu delivered exactly that. Thank you, Leo, for your dedication, patience, and excellent service. Our China adventure was filled with wonderful memories, and we look forward to planning many more journeys with you and Goway Travel. Highly recommended for travelers seeking thoughtfully designed, personalized luxury travel experiences!Suzette
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I’ve travelled with GoWay Travel for over ten trips abroad.(Australia, Japan, NewZealand, South Africa, Botswana, Kenya/Tanzania.) Each itinerary was customized to fit my needs, suggestions given to improve the experiences, and the air transportation was arranged. The consultants have been exemplary, with Brooke Theron being my skilful consultant for this my third trip to Botswana. She was patient, knew her destinations, listened to my wants and delivered an itinerary that was different from my two other trips to Botswana. Since I now travel solo, I’m very conscious of security, planning, being met and transported from airports to destinations, very good accommodations with excellent food packages, and lots of activities. This trip rates in the top three of my journeys with GoWay. Brooke booked me into the Kwando Reserve- Splash 3 days and Lebala camp 3 days and 2 days on the Chobe Princess cruise on the border of Botswana and Namibia. Kwando Safaris were excellent and the Chobe Princess was good but not quite what I had envisioned. The whole trip was flawlessly detailed and executed. I was never left wondering what to do or where to go. GoWay’s partner in Botswana is Thompson Africa. They were very good. WIth GoWay and their wonderful consultants you can’t go wrong. You are safe and well looked after. I highly recommend this travel company.521810 - Linda Ann Weich - Africa
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I want to thank Taha for his outstanding knowledge on Ghana. It was so good to work with him on the planning and the process to Ghana. Everything was amazing, from the hotels, tour guide Leslie, restaurants, and the food. I would definitely recommend Taha to anyone wanting to travel with a group. Best, Lisa V HendersonLisa Henderson
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Early 2026 I met Alice Teramoto at the Phoenix travel show. I asked her about a dive trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Thankfully I kept her card. About 7 months later I started planning the trip myself. I was overwhelmed after I got my airline tickets to and from Australia and organized a dive boat. Thankfully I found her card. I texted her with my dates and within two days she had a complete agenda to me. It was amazing. She had transport to and from airports, car rental, tours everywhere I was going. I was gone for 6 weeks and I was so happy with everything she planned. I haven't used a travel agent in the past but believe me I would us Goway Travel and Alice again. barbara coy
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Everything was looked after and no stress for usJean Willoughby
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