Panama is a vibrant Central American nation offering a unique blend of modern cosmopolitan life, rich colonial history, and pristine natural wonders. From the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo and the untouched beaches of Bocas del Toro, Panama provides diverse experiences for every traveler.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Panama Canal Miraflores Locks
Kids are mesmerized watching enormous container ships rise and fall through the lock chambers. The four-floor museum has interactive exhibits and the IMAX theater screens a canal documentary.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Gamboa Rainforest Aerial Tram
An open gondola through primary rainforest canopy at the edge of Soberanía National Park. Expert naturalist guides point out monkeys, toucans, and sloths. The butterfly garden, sloth sanctuary, and orchid display complete the experience.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Monkey Island Boat Tour (Lake Gatún)
Boat through the Panama Canal's artificial lake to a forested island where troops of Geoffroy's tamarins and capuchin monkeys approach boats. Crocodiles basking on shorelines add extra excitement.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Amador Causeway Cycling
Family cycling along the 3km causeway connecting Amador to the four Flamenco Islands. Flat terrain, ocean breezes, and spectacular Panama City skyline views. Bike rentals including children's bikes and tandems available at causeway.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Biomuseo
Frank Gehry's colorful museum tells Panama's story as a biodiversity bridge between continents. Eight immersive galleries with life-sized dioramas, animated exhibits, and an exceptional gift shop. Kids particularly love the megafauna gallery.
Duration: 2 hours
Pipeline Road Birding with Guide
Morning birding walk on the world-famous Pipeline Road in Soberanía National Park where 500+ species have been recorded. An expert guide's binoculars and spotting skill reveals toucans, antbirds, and sometimes harpy eagles to excited children.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Punta Culebra Nature Center (Smithsonian)
Smithsonian-operated marine science center on the Amador Causeway with a touch pool for interacting with sea creatures, nature trails through dry tropical forest, and Caribbean sea turtle exhibits. One of Panama's best-value family attractions.
Duration: 2 hours
Summit Botanical Gardens & Zoo
Family zoo near the Canal featuring Panama's national bird the harpy eagle, ocelots, tapirs, crocodiles, and capuchin monkeys in natural enclosures. The botanical garden has labeled tropical plants and the grounds are peaceful.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
The Westin Playa Bonita Panama
Panama's premier family beach resort 15 minutes from the airport with a children's water park, multiple pools, kids club, beach access, and spacious oceanview family rooms. All-inclusive options available.
Family features: Kids club (ages 4-12), water park, children's pool, playground, kids menus, babysitting available
Gamboa Rainforest Resort
Unique nature resort on the Canal watershed where children wake up to howler monkeys. The aerial tram, butterfly garden, sloth sanctuary, and boat tours make every day an adventure.
Family features: Aerial tram, butterfly garden, sloth sanctuary, outdoor pool, nature programs for children
Dreams Delight Playa Bonita
All-inclusive family resort next to Westin Playa Bonita with activities all day, a large free-form pool, beach access, and children's entertainment programs included in the rate.
Family features: All-inclusive with children's programs, Explorer's Club kids club, family pools, beach
Casa Nuratti Casco Viejo
Boutique hotel in Casco Viejo with spacious suites and kitchenettes suitable for families wanting extra space and city atmosphere. Rooftop pool and proximity to attractions make it convenient.
Family features: Suite rooms with kitchenettes, rooftop pool, central Casco Viejo location, flexible breakfast
Tryp By Wyndham Panama Centro
Reliable mid-range hotel in El Cangrejo with family rooms, rooftop pool, and easy access to restaurants and supermarkets. Good value base for families exploring Panama City.
Family features: Family rooms sleeping 4, rooftop pool, free breakfast, central location, parking
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Most Panama City restaurants welcome children warmly — high chairs available at all mid-range and upscale restaurants
Niko's Café 24-hour diners (multiple city locations) are reliable family options with American-style menus, large portions, and kid-friendly items
Fresh fruit juice (jugo natural) and agua de pipa (fresh coconut water) are healthy, delicious alternatives to soft drinks available everywhere
New York Bagel Café on Via Argentina has familiar breakfast foods including pancakes, bagels, and eggs that reliably appeal to children
Ristorante Napoli in El Cangrejo serves Italian pizza and pasta in a family-friendly atmosphere — a reliable standby when children resist Panamanian food
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Pack strong insect repellent (DEET-based) and sunscreen for all children — sun is intense year-round and insects in rainforest areas require protection
Uber is far easier than public transport with young children and luggage — the MiBus prepaid card system is confusing for short-term visitors
Book domestic flights to Bocas del Toro or San Blas well in advance — small Air Panama planes hold 9-12 passengers and fill quickly during school holidays
Afternoon rain in the wet season (May-November) is predictable — plan outdoor activities in the morning and have indoor backup options for afternoons