5 Reasons to Consider Traveling to Panama

When most travelers dream of Central America, Costa Rica often steals the spotlight with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and adventure-packed itineraries. But just a short flight away lies a destination that's every bit as breathtaking, without the crowds or high price tags: Panama.

If you’re considering a new adventure, here are five reasons why Panama should be on your travel radar.

1. There are Easy Flights From the U.S.

Panama is one of the most accessible destinations in Central America, especially for travelers departing from the U.S. With direct flights from cities like Miami, New York, Houston, and Atlanta, you can soak up the tropical sun in just a few hours. 

Flight deals are common (often under $300 round-trip), especially if you plan ahead. We recommend setting up a Google Flights alert for your home airport to track prices—Panama deals pop up more often than you'd think.

2. It’s a Budget-Savvy Alternative to Costa Rica

Don’t get us wrong; we love Costa Rica. But if you’re looking for the beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica, without as many crowds and high-season prices, consider Panama. It’s an underrated alternative. You’ll find wild beaches, jungle hikes, coffee farms, and charming surf towns, with a slower pace and more space to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone craving a first-time adventure, Panama offers an ideal balance of nature, culture, and affordability.

3. You Can Go Off-the-Grid in Nature

Panama is made for travelers who want to unplug. In remote corners of the country, you’ll find eco-lodges tucked deep in the rainforest, palm-lined islands with no cars or roads, and quiet beaches where you can spend hours without seeing another soul. Whether you're snorkeling in turquoise waters, kayaking through mangroves, or falling asleep to the sounds of the jungle, Panama’s raw beauty invites you to slow down, disconnect from daily noise, and reconnect with nature.

We hosted a virtual event with the team behind Casa Cayuco, one of the ecolodges we’ll stay at during our Panama group trip. Tucked away in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, Casa Cayuco is off-the-grid, community-centered, and deeply connected to the surrounding rainforest and sea.

During the event, we discussed what it truly means to travel consciously, and how places like Casa Cayuco are helping redefine adventure in a way that benefits both travelers and the local communities they visit.

4. Experience Two Oceans in One Trip

Did you know that in Panama, you can swim in both the Pacific and the Caribbean—all in the same week? Few places in the world offer such diverse coastal experiences within a single trip. One day, you might be surfing mellow waves on the Pacific side; the next, island hopping through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. 

Panama’s unique geography gives travelers the chance to explore two very different coastal regions, each with its own charm and character. Whether you choose to focus on one coast or visit both, you’ll discover diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable adventures waiting.

5. It Boasts a Rich Cultural Mosaic

Panama is so much more than beaches and jungle. It’s also a cultural crossroads—where Afro-Caribbean rhythms, Indigenous traditions, Spanish colonial history, and modern urban life intersect. From the colorful streets of Casco Viejo to visiting Indigenous Guna Yala communities, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the region.

Why Travel to Panama with Cherish?

Panama is the kind of place that surprises you, in all the best ways. It’s accessible, vibrant, and wildly beautiful. But more importantly, it’s a destination that invites presence. There are so many reasons to travel to Panama, but joining a group of women in this incredible destination is extra special.

If you’ve been craving space to reset, a chance to explore somewhere off the beaten path, and to travel alongside a supportive and like-minded group, our October trip might be just what you need. Like all Cherish experiences, this journey is designed to feel personal, restorative, and adventure-filled.

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