Panama

When to go to Panama

One of Panama’s biggest strengths is that it’s a year-round destination and air and water temperatures remain reasonably constant. Plus, it is outside the main hurricane belt compared to the rest of Central America. The dry season runs roughly from December to April and is the most popular time to visit, but the green season (May–November) can be wonderful too, with lush landscapes, fewer visitors and typically sunny mornings followed by occasional afternoon showers.

It’s also worth noting that the Caribbean and Pacific coasts can experience opposing weather patterns, so in October, Bocas del Toro often enjoys good weather when the Pacific side is experiencing rain.

The most important thing for families to be aware of is that it WILL rain. However, and we speak from experience, these are short sharp showers and usually do not detract from the holiday or prevent activities from happening. Accepting some rain will make your holiday experience that much more relaxed. There is a phrase you will hear regularly – ‘This is Panama’. Rain, a slower service, intense humidity in Panama City – and uber-friendly locals are all part of it!

January

This is the dry season although there will probably be occasional showers and also humidity in the lower-lying areas along the coast and in Panama City. Prices are still peak and it will be busier than in the May-November periods but ‘busy’ in Panama is a relative term. January is also the month of the increasingly popular Panama Jazz Festival held in Panama City and there is a Flower and Coffee Festival in Boquete.

February

This is the dry season although there will be occasional showers and also humidity in the lower-lying areas along the coast and in Panama City. It will still be busier than in the May-November periods but ‘busy’ in Panama is a relative term. February is usually the month for Carnaval – so expect some vibrant celebrations.

March

This is the dry season although there will be occasional showers and also humidity in the lower-lying areas along the coast and in Panama City. It will still be busier than in the May-November periods but ‘busy’ in Panama is a relative term. If Easter is early, be aware of seasonal supplements and also queues crossing the Costa Rica border if combining both countries. Bocas del Toro is generally busy over public holidays however we can adapt our itineraries here to avoid the main crowds.

April

This is the dry season although there will be occasional showers and also humidity in the lower lying areas along the coast and in Panama City. It will still be busier than in the May-November periods but ‘busy’ in Panama is a relative term. If Easter falls in April, be aware of seasonal supplements and also queues crossing the Costa Rica border if combining both countries. Bocas del Toro is generally busy over public holidays however we can adapt our itineraries here to avoid the main crowds. Boquete holds its annual orchid festival in the middle of the month.

May

The start of the ‘green’ season – which we all know means ‘wetter’ season. However, with rain a regular feature of Panama’s climate, this term can be seen as relative. Fewer visitors and better rates at hotels make this month a good option for visitors. Be aware that the first weekend in May is usually a public holiday in conjunction with Labour Day – there will be queues crossing the Costa Rica border if combining both countries. Bocas del Toro is also generally busy over public holidays, however we can adapt our itineraries here to avoid the main crowds.

June

The ‘green’ season – which we all know means ‘wetter’ season. However, with rain a regular feature of Panama’s climate, this term can be seen as relative. Panama City and low-lying areas along the coast experience high humidity but fewer visitors and better rates at hotels make this a good option for visitors.

July

The ‘green’ season – which we all know means ‘wetter’ season. However, with rain a regular feature of Panama’s climate, this term can be seen as relative. Panama City and low-lying areas along the coast experience high humidity but fewer visitors and better rates at hotels make this a good option for visitors. Whale season in the Pacific.

August

The ‘green’ season – which we all know means ‘wetter’ season. However, with rain a regular feature of Panama’s climate, this term can be seen as relative. Panama City and low-lying areas along the coast experience high humidity but fewer visitors and better rates at hotels make this a good option for visitors. Whale season in the Pacific.

September

The ‘green’ season – which we all know means ‘wetter’ season. However, with rain a regular feature of Panama’s climate, this term can be seen as relative. Panama City and low-lying areas along the coast experience high humidity but fewer visitors and better rates at hotels make this a good option for visitors. Whale season in the Pacific.

October

The height of the ‘green’ season – which we all know means ‘wetter’ season. Although Panama is in a good position geographically and escapes the usual hurricane route, it does still experience the October rains like the rest of its fellow Central American neighbours, particularly on the Pacific side. Panama City and low-lying areas along the coast experience high humidity but fewer visitors and better rates at hotels make this a good option for visitors. Whale season in the Pacific.

November

The ‘green’ season is coming to an end but still be prepared for wet and humid conditions throughout the country, particularly on the Pacific side. However, this is still a good option for visitors as you can join in the celebrations of the many Independence Days celebrated this month, although this will make key locations busier than usual.

December

This is the start of dry season. There will still be occasional showers and also humidity in the lower-lying areas along the coast and in Panama City and it will be busy over the Christmas/New Year period – although ‘busy’ in Panama is a relative term. Be aware of festive supplements and also queues crossing the Costa Rica border if combining both countries. Bocas del Toro is generally busy over public holidays, however we can adapt our itineraries here to avoid the main crowds.