Cheapest and Most Expensive Times to Visit Panama
Learn the cheapest and most expensive times to visit Panama and the best time to go if you're on a budget but still want good weather.
Most Expensive Times to Visit Panama
Panama’s high season means sunny days, lots of visitors, and higher travel costs. Prices for flights, hotels, and tours can climb significantly during the months and events below.
- Dry Season (Mid-December to Mid-April)
This is Panama’s busiest and driest time of year. The weather is ideal, especially on the Pacific side, but you'll pay more for just about everything—from beachfront resorts to guided excursions. - Christmas and New Year’s (Late December to Early January)
Flights and hotels are packed with travelers escaping cold weather. Expect high demand and premium pricing during the holiday period. - Carnaval (4 days before Ash Wednesday, usually February)
This is one of Panama’s biggest celebrations. Towns like Las Tablas, Panama City, and Penonomé see a huge influx of visitors. Hotel rates double or even triple during this time. - Holy Week / Semana Santa (March or April, depending on Easter)
A major national holiday, with locals traveling throughout the country. Beach towns and island destinations like Bocas del Toro and San Blas book up early and prices surge.
Cheapest Times to Visit Panama
Looking to save money while exploring Panama? These are the times of year when prices are lowest, and crowds are fewer.
- May to Early July
This marks the beginning of the rainy season. While you'll get afternoon showers, mornings are usually clear. Hotels drop rates, and flights are easier to find on a budget. - September to Mid-November
This is the heart of Panama’s wet season. While heavy rain is common, it’s also when you’ll see the lowest hotel prices and the least number of tourists. - Late August to Early September
School vacations end and travel slows down. While still technically rainy season, this short window often has manageable weather and good deals.
Best Time of Year to Visit Panama on a Budget
If you're hoping for good weather and lower rates, Panama’s shoulder seasons are your best bet.
- Late April to Early June
Just after dry season ends, the crowds thin out. Rain is light and short, and you’ll see better deals on flights and hotels—especially in Panama City and Boquete. - Late August to Early October
While it’s technically wet season, many travelers report sunny mornings and cheaper prices during this time.
Panama Travel Cost Summary
| Time Period | Price Level | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-Dec – Mid-April | 💲💲💲 Highest | Dry season, tourist crowds, top hotel rates |
| Christmas – New Year | 💲💲💲 Very High | Major holiday travel surge |
| Carnaval & Semana Santa | 💲💲💲 High | Big national events, hotel prices spike |
| Late April – Early June | 💲💲 Moderate | Start of rainy season, better pricing |
| May – Early July | 💲 Low | Light rain, fewer crowds, hotel discounts |
| Sept – Mid-November | 💲 Lowest | Heaviest rain, lowest demand and best deals |
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