The Perfect 2 Weeks Panama Itinerary for Families with Toddlers

If yo are going to Panama soon but don't know where to go here is the perfect 2 weeks Panama itinerary for families with toddlers. Panama is a small country with a big heart and through our month there we never got bored once. Panama is one of those rare places that offers something for everyone, including families, solo adults and kids of all ages, especially toddlers. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and lush rainforests, Panama is the perfect destination for an unforgettable family vacation. Here is a two-week itinerary that will take you on a journey through Panama, with plenty of kid-friendly activities along the way.

The perfect 2 weeks Panama itinerary for families with toddlers

Week 1: Panama City and Surroundings

Day 1-3: Panama City

We are starting our perfect 2 weeks Panama itinerary for families with toddlers in Panama City because you will likely fly in and out of here.

Start your trip in Panama City, which is a bustling city and the capital of Panama. You and your family can visit the Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Because of Casco Viejo's charming architecture, we suggest to add a walk around the charming old town.  Casco Viejo, is sure to delight you if you enjoy colonial architecture and narrow streets. For a family-friendly activity, head to the Biomuseo, a museum dedicated to the biodiversity of Panama.

Panama City, the vibrant capital of Panama, has plenty of activities for families with toddlers and for kids of all ages, really. Start your day with a visit to the Biomuseo, a colorful museum that tells the story of Panama's biodiversity because this is sure to get your toddlers smiling. Walk along the Cinta Costera, a waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean.

Visit the Panama Canal Museum, where you can learn about the history and engineering of the famous canal. Take a stroll through the historic district of Casco Viejo, where you can see colonial architecture and colorful street art. For a more relaxing activity, head to the Amador Causeway. There you can rent bikes or take a leisurely walk with your little ones. And all while enjoying views of the ocean and the skyline, so the whole family enjoys!  Panama City offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it an ideal destination for families with toddlers who want to experience the best of Panama.

Day 4-6: Gamboa and Soberania National Park

Drive to Gamboa, a small town nestled in the rainforest, and stay at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Take a boat ride on the Panama Canal because what visit to Panama is complete without a visit to its famous canal? Make sure you keep your eyes open to see monkeys, sloths, and birds in their natural habitat. Visit the Soberania National Park, and be wowed at one of the best birdwatching spots in Panama.

Gamboa and Soberania National Park is located just outside of Panama City. This area offers a perfect opportunity for families with toddlers  because you get to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature.

Start your day with a hike in the lush rainforest and gift yourself the serenity of this experience. Make sure to keep an eye out for a variety of birds, butterflies, and even sloths. Because of the variety of animals on this hike, your little ones are sure to love it! Then, take a boat ride along the Panama Canal, where you can see ships passing through and learn about the history of the canal.

Visit the nearby Panama Rainforest Discovery Center.  There you can see hummingbirds and toucans up close. In the evening, head back to your hotel in Gamboa and relax by the pool. Don't forget to set time aside to enjoy the peaceful sounds of the rainforest. Gamboa and Soberania National Park offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It is an ideal destination for families with toddlers who want to experience nature and the natural beauty of Panama.

Need some Panama inspiration? Check out this reel with ideas of places to visit!

Day 7-9: San Blas Islands

We could not leave this destination out of our perfect 2 weeks Panama itinerary for families with toddlers.

Take a short flight to the San Blas Islands, a group of over 360 islands off the Caribbean coast of Panama. The islands are home to the Kuna Yala indigenous people and they are basically the inhabitants and protectors of these islands. They  have preserved their culture and way of life, and staying in San Blas even just one day is an unforgettable experience. Stay in a traditional thatched-roof hut, go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, and learn about Kuna Yala culture.

San Blas Islands, a collection of over 300 islands on Panama's Caribbean coast, offer a unique and unforgettable experience for families with toddlers. You can start your adventure with a boat ride to the islands which is sure to put a smile on your toddler's face. Be sure to look out for wildlife on your way there. On the ride over you can see crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.

Spend your days snorkeling in the coral reefs and seeing all the colorful fish and sea turtles. And don't forget to take a walk on the beaches and collect seashells with your little ones. It is one of our toddler's favorite things to do. You can also visit a local indigenous village, where you can learn about their culture and way of life.

At night, sleep in a cozy cabin or tent on one of the islands, and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. San Blas Islands offer a peaceful and serene escape for families with toddlers, where you can connect with nature and enjoy quality time together.

Week 2: Beaches and Rainforests

Day 10-11: Santa Catalina

Drive to Santa Catalina, a small surf town on the Pacific coast of Panama. The beaches here are perfect for toddlers, with calm waters and white sands. Take a boat ride to Coiba Island National Park, a protected marine reserve with diverse marine life.

Families with toddlers can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing vacation in Santa Catalina. It is a small surf town on the Pacific coast of Panama and it is so charming you won't want to leave.

Start your day with a stroll on the beach and a dip in the calm waters, because this is perfect for toddlers to play in and release that morning energy. Take a boat ride to Coiba Island National Park, where you can see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. For a more active day, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the mangroves along the coastline.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants in town. One of our favorite things to do is  watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean with a nice drink and meal. And because Panama has so many dining options, you won't struggle to find the perfect spot. Santa Catalina is a hidden gem of Panama, offering a peaceful retreat for families with toddlers who want to connect with nature and enjoy the beach.

Day 12-13: Boquete

Drive to Boquete, a charming mountain town surrounded by cloud forests. Stay at a coffee farm and learn about the coffee-making process. Take a hike in the cloud forest and see waterfalls, orchids, and birds.

Boquete, a charming mountain town in Panama, offers plenty of activities for families and for toddlers. Take a stroll in the town center and visit the local markets. Here you can sample fresh fruit and vegetables. Visit a coffee farm because you can learn about the coffee-making process and try some delicious coffee. And because this is something your kids will enjoy as well as the adults on the trip. Take a hike in the cloud forests, where you can see waterfalls, birds, and butterflies. For a more relaxing activity, head to one of the many hot springs in the area. Because you can soak in the warm waters and enjoy the mountain views, this is an unmissable spot. And don't forget to try some of the local chocolate, which is made from cacao grown in the region.

Day 14: Bocas del Toro

Take a short flight to Bocas del Toro and see the beauty of Panamanian Caribbean like nowhere else. Bocas del toro is an archipelago off the Caribbean coast of Panama and a destination sure to leave you dreaming of it for years to come. Stay on Isla Colon, the main island, and explore the beaches, mangroves, and coral reefs. Don't forget to take a boat ride to Dolphin Bay, where you can see dolphins in the wild.

Isla Colon, the main island of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, is a paradise for families and toddlers. You can spend your days exploring the beaches, such as Playa Bluff or Starfish Beach. These are amazing beaches where the little ones can splash in the shallow waters and build sandcastles. Take a boat ride to the nearby islands and ensure the little ones have a blast. Zapatilla or Bastimentos are both beautiful and there you can snorkel in the coral reefs and see colorful fish and turtles. Walk along the wooden boardwalks in the mangrove forests and try to spot sloths and monkeys. You cannot forget to sample the local cuisine, it Is delicious! One of my favorite are fresh seafood and plantains or as they call them patacones! There is no shortage of good eateries all around.

In conclusion

Panama is a country full of surprises and adventures. It's a country not visited by many and waiting to be explored by travelers of all ages. Families with toddlers will find Panama an incredible destination because it offers something for everyone and kids love all the natural adventures the country has to offer.

With this two-week itinerary, you'll be able to see the best of Panama. You will get a glimpse at Panama's culture, nature, and beaches. And you will enjoy it more because the little ones will be entertained and engaged. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen, hats, and bug spray. Get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Panama.