interested in traveling in panama?

Question

I am thinking of going to Panama, I was there long ago, 1973 when I was back packing to South America. I only stayed 3 days in the city, well outside of the city but I did not travel then to much. Now I would like to return. Where are the nicest mountians , are there good places to explore, back pack, I want to do some kayacking or white water rafting. i am not so much into cities, unless there old and historic. Any sugestions where to go and how is October for a visit. Thanks for answers.

Answer 1

Well the person making the comment about "Panama Sucks" probably hasn't been here, because his comment would have been totally different.

October is not the best month because you're right smack in the middle of the rainy season, so be prepared for hot, humid and rainy.

The best place for you to visit is Chiriqui Province in order to do some good rafting. Exploring and backpacking, I recommend you visit El Valle de Anton, the Pacific Beaches, and Chiriquí as well.

It's way better if you hook up with a tour guide. Check on the web, as now there are a ton of sites that can help you arrange a vacation in Panama for your liking.

Answer 2

The best place to explore, rafting, etc. would be Boquete, in the mountains of the province of Chiriqui. You need to get to David, the provincial capital and from there take a bus, departures every hour for approx. US$3.00
There are several hotels at good prices.
The Hotel Conquistador is an interesting, cheap option (maybe US$25 per night). The Panamonte is more expensive (US$90) and quaint, but the food is excellent.
October is rainy, but this makes the rivers even better for rafting. The coffee-picking season may still be going on in the first part of the month, so you may want to visit some of the local plantations, which are producing world-class beans. You should try to climb the Baru Volcano, the highest peak in the country. If you are VERY lucky and get to the top on a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans at the same time.
El Valle is another place for packpacking. There are only a few hotels and a Sunday market with local crafts.
Panama City has changed a lot since 1973, give it a try.

Answer 3

If you are going to Panama on October, you should visit Bocas del Toro (it is an Island but very nice, backpacker friendly)
You said, you are more inclined to the mountain sides, well I suggest, you go to Boquete, you can hook up with several companies for River Rafting and Kayaking (Panama Rafters and Chiriquí Rafters) You might want to go into a coffee estate tour, the nature there is overwhelming. Also you may visit El Valle de Antón, where you might find a place with square trees, golden frogs, and a mountain that looks like a person "la India dormida" sleeping Indian. There is a place near by El Valle called Altos de María, it is breath taking. All the places I mentioned above, are perfect for hiking or trekking. There is a lot to see in Panama and the locals are very friendly. Many people speaks English and some understand at least the basics.
I suggest to visit some web sites related to Panama, there you might find more information and pictures of the things I'm talking about.
Good luck

Answer 4

You can enjoy all these activities in El Valle,where it's springtime year round. I'm going back home in December,October is a nice time to visit also. And to the person who says Panama sucks....whatever.

Answer 5

Panama sucks. Go to Costa Rica instead.

Answer 6

I AM INTERESTED IN GOING AS WELL BUT JUST DONT HAVE THE TIME RIGHT NOW MAYBE LATER.

Answer 7

I am. Would you pay my plane tickets? Would you pay for my accoadations? Let's Go!