when to go to panama

Panama sits within the tropics and therefore the average year-round temperatures are stable, making it a great destination at any time. Altitude plays a part in temperatures, ranging from hot and humid in the tropical lowlands and cool in the highlands. As a tropical country Panama has distinct dry and wet seasons.

Dry Season

December to April

These months see pleasant temperatures, dry days, and plenty of sunshine. The dry season offers some of the best months to visit Panama. Specifically, if you want to relax under a warm Caribbean sun for hours on a spectacular beach, the best months to visit Panama are January, February, and March.

Wet Season

May to November

The wet season starts in May with short but heavy rain spells making an appearance, usually for no more than a couple of hours a day. It’s still a good time to visit Panama if you don’t mind some rain, and the rains turn the country a beautiful shade of green. May to July offers sunny skies in the morning or afternoon, punctuated by sudden, heavy thunderstorms that are short in duration and can happen every few days. October and November are the wettest months.

Other Considerations

• Cooler mountainous regions such as the Chiriquí Highlands and the Valle de Anton see rain throughout the year, though it’s usually limited to a light mist during the dry season.
• The Darien can be difficult at best in the rainy season.
• The Azuero Peninsula is a bit drier than the rest of the country.
• In Boquete, high winds and mist are common from mid- December to mid-February; January sees the occasional thunderstorm, and March to May are the sunniest months. 
• July to September are fantastic for whale watching in Panama. Waters are swarming with breaching humpback whales and dolphins.
• The Caribbean Coast receives more rainfall than the Pacific Coast, particularly Bocas del Toro where it can rain anytime of the year. The Pacific Coast offers slightly lower temperatures. 

Contact Destination Seekers to plan your Panama adventure