The Best Backpacking Spots In Panama

Backpacking through Panama can be extraordinary if you know the best places to go. Here are some of the best gems in the country to head for if you’re a backpacker looking to get the most out of your experience.

Mountains of Coffee

Located in the mountains of the Chiriquí Highlands is a quaint village known as Boquete. Quiet and peaceful, Boquete is popular among retirees, and with good reason. The gorgeous landscape of coffee plantations surrounded by mountains is home to one of the top three private gardens in the world; it’s called Mi Jardin es Su Jardin. Ample opportunities for hiking as well as cozying up and relaxing with a cup of Panamanian coffee make Boquete an incredible place to backpack through. You can also expect exceptionally delicious, world-class food.

Pay Respects to the Ruins

The Welsh privateer Captain Henry Morgan more or less destroyed Panama in 1671, but until then, it was the most important Spanish trading town on the entire Pacific coast. There are some ruins that remain today, including churches, convents, a hospital, bridges, and some stone walls, and a backpacking trip is not complete without a visit to the ruins of Panama Viejo (“Old Panama”).

San Blas Islands

This island chain is perfect for sailing, diving, and snorkeling. Backpackers often congregate on the San Blas islands on the Caribbean Sea, as do travelers on a budget, but there are high-end resorts here, too. The islands have a rustic feel and offer a phenomenal off-grid escape. San Blas is a world of islands all its own, and all are welcome here.

Caribbean Chill Vibe

The most popular backpacker destination in Panama remains Bocas del Toro. This beachy bungalow town on the sea is equal parts Caribbean chillout and epic beach party. Surrounded by the jungle and rainforest, surfers love to come to Bocas del Toro to catch the tide during the day and party on the beach at night. Water taxis are everywhere waiting to take travelers to secret, secluded coves and extraordinary snorkeling locations.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.