Has an exciting trip to the beautiful port country of Panama been a dream of yours? Would a memorable tourist experience in South America be something of interest to you? Does the idea of a Panamanian travel experience with a great company sound good to you?
Once you arrive in Panama, your eyes will be filled with wonder as you experience the amazing rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and clean beaches covering the country. You will experience the local culture while having a unique tourist experience with some of the top-rated guides in the entire country. Another great adventure is simply roaming through the world-renowned Panama City and seeing the remnants of old while enjoying many examples of modern technology and industry. No matter where or what you decide to spend your time doing, there is a tour company in Panama that has the perfect package for you.
Once you make the choice, the next thing to check off your list is deciding on the best tour provider so that you can have a relaxing, successful trip. This is no easy task and as you begin your search, you will be swamped with a large number of different companies providing services in Panama. Choosing the right Panama tour company can make or break your trip and each available option will have varying prices, experience in the industry, as well as tour packages. Many times, a tour can be a large financial investment as well as an investment of your time. It is imperative that you make the right choice and end up with a satisfactory tour in Panama.
We at TravellersQuest strongly believe that without investing the proper amount of time into the background of each available option, it is possible to spend money on a company that does not have your best interest at heart. Since we have taken the time to compare and contrast the variables of hundreds of tour operators, you can rest easy knowing that this top 10 list contains all of the information you need to make an educated decision.
Here is an unbiased list of the Top 10 most reputable Panama tour operators.
Providers | Reviews |
Bocas Dive Center |
Trip Advisor – 1,652 reviews |
San Blas Adventures |
Trip Advisor – 1,460 reviews |
Panama Day Trips |
Trip Advisor – 1,138 reviews |
Panama Dive Center | Trip Advisor – 925 reviews |
Panama Yacht Adventures Day Tours | Trip Advisor – 750 reviews |
Almiza Tours by My friend Mario | Trip Advisor – 839 reviews |
Conozca Panamá Primero Tours | Trip Advisor – 702 reviews |
Boquete Outdoor Adventures | Trip Advisor – 985 reviews |
Xplora | Trip Advisor – 322 reviews |
Layover Panama | Trip Advisor – 377 reviews |
Table update Dec 26, 2023
Bocas Dive Center
Bocas Dive Center is the highest-rated tour operator and dive center in Panama. A locally owned venture, the company is operated by a team of exceptionally passionate guides who are committed to providing outstanding experiences. With a focus on personalized adventures and a dedication to safety, Bocas Dive Center has become the go-to choose for those seeking exceptional tours and dives in Panama. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a family yearning for a fun-filled getaway, they have meticulously designed experiences that cater to your specific desires.
Bocas Dive Center Best Panama Tour Packages
Explore the best diving packages offered by Bocas Dive Center.
Dive into the world of scuba with Bocas’ quick and accessible Discover Scuba Diving experience! In just 30 minutes, you’ll start your underwater journey, learning SCUBA gear usage and diving to 12 meters/40 feet with an instructor by your side.
Embark on the world’s most popular SCUBA diving course and gain the skills and knowledge to become a confident, responsible diver. With the PADI Open Water Diver certification, you can dive globally down to 18 meters, unlocking a whole new realm of underwater exploration.
For those with Open Water certification looking to enhance their skills, the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course offers experience in 5 specialized diving fields. Boost your confidence and knowledge, becoming certified to dive down to 30 meters/100 feet worldwide.
Take on the most challenging yet rewarding PADI course with Rescue Diver. Elevate your skills and confidence by learning to manage diver emergencies both underwater and on the surface. This course is essential for all divers, aiming to make you a competent and prepared rescuer.
Bocas Dive Center Reviews
Bocas Dive Center is your ultimate choice for an unforgettable Panama travel and diving adventure. Boasting an impressive 5-star rating from over 1600 enthusiastic reviews, their commitment to excellence is evident in the consistently positive feedback from our satisfied customers. This Panama tour company’s excellence is further highlighted by the prestigious #1 position among the 25 outdoor activities in Bocas Town and TripAdvisor’s traellers choice award in 2023.
Great dive and refresher with Simon! He was very good at pointing out different fish and some of the tinier animals… ChrisDiBenedetto
Read all reviews of Bocas Dive Center on TripAdvisor.
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San Blas Adventures
San Blas Adventures is a Panama tour company that operates out of the famous port of Panama City. They are leaders in the industry and each day, the company grows larger. Due to their size and connections, they have abilities and allowances that other providers simply do not have and with their network, you can expect to experience Panama like a true local while still being given an affordable price.
San Blas Adventures Best Panama Tour Packages
San Blas Adventures offers the best Panama tour packages, providing unique and unforgettable experiences:
Go on an extraordinary adventure through the complete San Blas archipelago with their speedboat journey from Panama to Colombia. Avoid the two-day ocean crossing and traverse all 365 islands, witnessing the splendor of the third-largest coral reef and the untouched rainforests. As a swift alternative to the Cartagena to Panama sailing route, we offer a fast and thrilling boat journey connecting Sapzurro to Carti.
Escape to a tropical paradise with our 2-day island-hopping adventure. Lounge on pristine white sand beaches, immerse yourself in turquoise waters, and snorkel amidst incredible reefs and shipwrecks. Explore multiple captivating Caribbean islands, visit a Kuna village and museum, and indulge in a BBQ lunch with ice-cold beverages, all guided by San Blas Adventures knowledgeable and bilingual hosts.
Let the wind carry you away across the crystal-clear blue waters of one of the most secluded and beautiful archipelagos globally. San Blas Adventures offers custom and package sailboat charters in the stunning San Blas Islands of Panama. Tailor your Caribbean getaway according to your preferences, and we’ll ensure a sailing experience that aligns perfectly with your desires.
San Blas Adventures Reviews
San Blas has proudly earned over 1450 positive reviews with 5-star rating. They have also earned travelers’ choice award in 2023 by TripAdvisor and this can be attributed to their high commitment to service. They have also been rated as the #3 of 471 tours & Activities in Panama. Past clients have a lot of kind words to say and you can read what one person said:
Amazing tour, good people, loads of sport and culture. Couldn’t recommend enough. Had amazing crew. Lorca, Alvaro, marry…
Read all reviews of San Blas Adventures on TripAdvisor.
Panama Day Trips
If what you are searching for is a trusted, reliable Panama tour company, look no further than Panama Day Trips! This is a smaller tour company that offers very unique tours. Expect to learn much about the rainforest and the country while touring with their experienced guides and find hidden gems across the country while having the experience of a lifetime.
Panama Day Trips Best Panama Tour Packages
No matter what you decide to spend your time doing in Panama, this tour provider will take your trip to the next level. The Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Panama Jungle Tour is an incredible option that will give you the chance to see the ocean on either side of the country with a tour of the jungle included.
You can also join in on an overnight Panama tour of 3 days, 2 nights in order to see the once-in-a-lifetime event of nesting sea turtles while enjoying the beach and great food. There is a Panama tour package where you will take an Eco-cruise to visit the Embera village and get to know the people there while learning much about their culture and ways of life. For their Panama Canal and Gatun Lake Jungle Eco Cruise tour, you can expect to see an abundance of wildlife while visiting Monkey island and going through the canal.
Panama Day Trips Reviews
You are guaranteed a great experience with this tour operator in Panama and as you can see by their 1138 reviews on TripAdvisor, this company knows the business and how to provide great tours as well as how to treat clients. They have a five-star rating on TripAdvisor and have also earned multiple travelers choice award. Here is a glowing review from a past client:
Paola was an excellent guide. We learned a great deal of history and saw more animals and birds than we could have imagined. Lunch was great… rundelljr2018
Read all reviews of Panama Day Trips on TripAdvisor.
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Panama Dive Center
Panama Dive Center stands out as a premier dive center and tour operator in Panama, highly acclaimed for its exceptional services. The company specializes in Scuba Dive products and offers complete PADI courses. Panama Dive center also holds the distinction of being the first 5 Star PADI Dive Resort. Nestled in the captivating Coiba National Park, the center provides unparalleled day trips featuring some of the most breathtaking landscapes imaginable.
Clients have consistently recognized Panama Dive Center as the preeminent PADI Scuba Dive Resort in Santa Catalina, underscoring their dedication to delivering outstanding dive experiences. Whether you are an experienced diver seeking adventure or someone eager to learn and obtain PADI certification, the center caters to a diverse range of enthusiasts.
Panama Dive Center Best Panama Tour Packages
Panama Dive Center offers diverse tour packages, including the PADI Scuba Diver course for those with time constraints, allowing supervised dives up to 12 meters.
The Discover Freediving course provides a safe introduction to freediving in Coiba National Park.
The Divemaster Training Program emphasizes professionalism and ocean conservation, conducted in the scenic Santa Catalina with access to Coiba National Park. The center, recognized as a ‘5 Star Dive Resort,’ follows PADI’s highest training standards, ensuring a unique and fulfilling experience for participants.
Panama Dive Center Reviews
Panama Dive Center has received rave reviews, totaling 929, with an impressive 5.0 rating. The majority, 872, describe their experience as excellent, and 40 as very good. This acclaim places Panama Dive Center as the second-best among 22 outdoor activities in Santa Catalina. In recognition of their excellence, they have been honored with the prestigious Travelers’ Choice award for 2023.
Panama Dive Center was an excellent once in a lifetime experience. Starting from the friendly and easy vibe in the shop to the confident and grounding teaching from our guide…Katie M Read all reviews of Panama Dive Center on TripAdvisor
Panama Yacht Adventures Day Tours
Panama Yacht Adventures Day Tours is one of the most highly experienced Panama tour companies on our list and for good reason. With over 20 years in the tourism industry, they bring a long lineage of passion and knowledge into their tours to give you an unparalleled experience during your travels. You are in safe hands and Panama Yacht Adventures can’t wait to have you on board.
Panama Yacht Adventures Day Tours Best Panama Tour Packages
Get out on the water for some Maritime fun in one of the many Panama tour packages provided by Panama Yacht Adventures. Sea Breeze Champagne Adventure is available and this tour is an incredible opportunity to go under the bridges of Latin Americas.
Instead of being on top of the boat, you also have the option to join sport fishing tour. Experience the exhilaration of sport fishing in the pristine waters of Coiba and Piñas on Panama Dive Center’s Hatteras and Defender vessels. Their all-inclusive packages offer a chance to create unforgettable moments surrounded by the natural beauty of these breathtaking locations.
Panama Yacht Adventures Day Tours Reviews
Panama Yacht Adventures Day Tours has earned acclaim with a remarkable 5-star rating from 750 reviews, positioning it at #7 among 176 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Panama City. The prestigious Travelers’ Choice award for 2023 further underscores its excellence, reflecting consistent positive feedback from satisfied customers. The company is indeed one of the top Panama tour operators and a go to choice for your unforgettable Panama travel.
Every people that stay in Panama should have this experience! It was so amazing that we saw dolphins coming back to the city… Courville
Read all reviews of Panama Yacht Adventures on TripAdvisor.
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Almiza Tours by My friend Mario
Almiza Tours, led by My friend Mario, offers a unique opportunity to explore Panama’s culture with local guides at a remarkably affordable rate – half the price of competitors. Boasting a team of friendly guides with over 10 years of experience, this amazing Panama tour company ensures an enriching journey filled with insightful information and historical details.
Established in 1994, the company brings decades of expertise to the table, promising travelers an authentic and immersive experience that goes beyond typical tourist offerings. With a commitment to providing local insights and affordable pricing, Almiza Tours stands out as a reputable choice for those seeking a culturally rich exploration of Panama.
Almiza Tours by My friend Mario Best Panama Tour Packages
Almiza Tours by My friend Mario offers an enticing array of Panama’s best tour packages, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for travelers. The “Panama City Tour” provides a comprehensive exploration of the region, encompassing old ruins, the colonial town, the new city, and the iconic canal.
For nature enthusiasts, the “Bayano Lake” package includes a boat ride and cave exploration, promising a unique and adventurous journey.
Those looking for a blend of fishing, wildlife, and scenic beauty can opt for the Gatun Lake package, which includes fishing activities and a visit to Monkeys Island. For a cultural immersion and rainforest adventure, the “Embera Village” package offers a canoe ride, rainforest exploration, and a visit to a waterfall. With these diverse tour options, Almiza Tours caters to various interests, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Almiza Tours by My friend Mario Reviews
Almiza Tours by My friend Mario is undeniably a top choice for your Panama travel adventure, boasting numerous positive reviews. With over 800 reviews and an impressive 4.5-star rating, the company secures a position in the top 10 among all Panama tour companies. The wealth of positive feedback highlights the satisfaction of travelers, making Almiza Tours a trusted and highly regarded option for those seeking an exceptional and memorable exploration of Panama.
Our tour guide Alonso was awesome. We had a great experience. We saw wildlife, the Panama Canal and San Lorenzo Fort… Mobile32300863743
Read all reviews of Almiza Tours by My Friend Mario on TripAdvisor.
Conozca Panamá Primero Tours
Conozca Panamá Primero Tours specializes in offering both private and shared experiences in Panama, earning recognition as one of the Best Tours in Panama City by Viator and TripAdvisor. The company provides a range of options, including Panama Canal Tours, Embera Communities trips, Gatun Lake & Soberania National Park trips and so on.
Explore the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal and San Lorenzo National Park for a diverse and immersive adventure. Conozca Panamá Primero Tours ensures flexibility by allowing travelers to choose between private or shared transportation options. All tours come complete with drinks, snacks, and insurance coverage onboard their vehicles. The company is committed to delivering a unique and exceptional service, inviting travelers to book with them and discover the best of Panama in a memorable and enjoyable way.
Conozca Panamá Primero Tours Best Panama Tour Packages
Conozca Panamá Primero Tours presents an array of captivating packages, each offering a unique exploration of Panama’s beauty. The Ancon Hill, Sunrise, Nature & Wildlife Encounter package provides a rare opportunity to witness a stunning sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, with encounters with diverse wildlife. For those seeking dual-ocean enjoyment, the Caribbean Beach Day on Isla Grande package combines picturesque Pacific sunrise views with crystal-clear waters in the Caribbean, promising a day rich in pirate legends and cultural influences.
The Emberá Tribes Adventure at Chagres National Park invites travelers to discover lesser-known parts of Panama, immersing themselves in the Emberá ethnic group’s traditional clothing and indigenous culture. The Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour offers exceptional value with small group sizes, expert guidance, and personalized attention. Participants explore iconic sites like the Panama Canal, Amador Causeway, and Casco Viejo while enjoying unlimited hydration and snacks.
Conozca Panamá Primero Tours Reviews
Conozca Panamá Primero Tours has garnered widespread acclaim, boasting an impressive 5.0-star rating from 702 reviews. Recognized as the #3 choice among 314 Outdoor Activities in Panama City, the positive reviews underscore the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. The prestigious Travellers’ Choice award for 2023 further solidifies Conozca Panamá Primero Tours as a standout tour company in Panama.
Spectacular guide Roberto Ríos! Friendly, attentive and a great professional. 100% recommended. He made our visit very entertaining… Alfonso M
Read all reviews of Conozca Panamá Primero Tours on TripAdvisor.
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Boquete Outdoor Adventures
Boquete Outdoor Adventures, based in Boquete, stands out as a premier tour operator company in Panama. The company is committed to providing the best travel experience with a guarantee of the lowest prices. As the actual tour provider and not a travel agency, they eliminate middle-men to ensure direct, cost-effective connections between vacationers and local guides.
The team comprises both local Panamanians and experienced individuals from the United States, creating a well-rounded group dedicated to the enjoyment, comfort, and safety of their clients. Boasting over a decade in the business, their extensive knowledge of destinations, hotels, and tours sets them apart. With a customer-centric philosophy, they prioritize the unique needs of each client, offering tailored vacation experiences.
Boquete Outdoor Adventures Best Panama Tour Packages
Discover amazing Panama with Boquete Outdoor Adventures’ thoughtfully crafted tour packages. The 2-Day Trip, “Coffee, Canyon, and Cloud Forest,” immerses you in the essence of this Panamanian gem. Traverse the renowned coffee-producing highlands, wander through ancient cloud forests teeming with rare wildlife, and marvel at millennia-old rock formations and canyons.
For a more extended exploration, the 3-Day “Best of Boquete” journey unfolds a thrilling narrative of Panama’s wild west, encompassing breathtaking islands, heart-pounding whitewater rapids, coffee-producing highlands, ancient cloud forests, and distinctive rock formations. If you seek an adrenaline rush, the Whitewater Rafting and Canopy Zip Line Package seamlessly blends two of Boquete’s most popular activities for a day of excitement. The Island Trip takes you to the Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park, offering pristine beaches, snorkeling adventures, and encounters with diverse wildlife.
Boquete Outdoor Adventures Reviews
Boquete Outdoor Adventures, ranked as the #5 of 40 Outdoor Activities in Boquete, has garnered over 900 positive reviews, establishing itself as a favorite for unforgettable adventures in Panama. From Whitewater Rafting to combo packages for hiking, bird watching, cliff jumping, and snorkeling, they offer a diverse range of activities, promising an extraordinary and one-of-a-kind Panama vacation. With an outstanding 4.5 star over all rating, Boquete Outdoor Adventures is indeed one of the best Panama tour companies.
This company goes all out to make sure that you are well taken care. Ed was amazing ..he went all out to make us comfortable…Fuad_12
Read all reviews of Boquete Outdoor Adventures reviews on TripAdvisor.
Xplora
Offering small and large group tours, Xplora Panama Tours is one of the top-tier Panama tour companies available. Operating out of Panama City, this provider is fully operated and guided by local Panamanians who know the area and are passionate about giving you an unforgettable experience. As a company with over 10 years of gaining professional knowledge of the tourism industry, Xplora is guaranteed to offer you a top-quality tour experience during your stay.
Xplora Best Panama Tour Packages
Join one of Xplora’s many safe and educational Panama group tours and be blown away by the knowledge and fun you encounter. You can appreciate incredible wildlife diversity and an abundance of natural flora along the coast of the Panama canal in their canal tour. For a unique and privileged Panama tour, you can have the Caribbean Island Experience and live in luxury on the Isla Grande.
Another great opportunity to see wildlife and explore the depths of Panama is the rainforest tour. In this jungle tour of Panama, you will also see a hidden waterfall so bring your camera and prepare to get a little wet. If you would like to learn about the history and culture of this famous port city, you have the perfect opportunity to do so on the Panama city day tour.
Xplora Reviews
With over 300 stellar reviews on TripAdvisor, taking a tour with Xplora Tours is a great investment of your time and money. They have also been given multiple certificate of excellence award by the trip Advisor and for good reason. Here you can see an example of this by reviews such as this one:
We had a fantastic time on the Panama Canal Wildlife tour. Briant was an engaging, knowledgeable guide and took time to point out all the different types of birds and monkeys we saw…PZG
Read all reviews of Xplora on TripAdvisor.
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Layover Panama
Layover Panama stands out as a highly professional and dependable private tour and transportation service in Panama. Recognizing the uniqueness of each group and the varying travel needs of individuals, the company is dedicated to tailoring its services to meet specific requirements. Whether you’re interested in private or shared tours, “Layover Panama” offers a range of options, including visits to iconic locations such as the Panama Canal Locks, Monkey Islands, Agua Clara Locks, Embera Tribe, and more. With a commitment to providing personalized experiences, “Layover Panama” ensures that your time in Panama is both enjoyable and memorable, catering to the distinct preferences of each traveler.
Layover Panama Best Panama Tour Packages
Discover the best of Panama with Layover Panama’s exceptional tour packages. The “Private Layover Panama Canal & City Tour” offers a personalized exploration, starting from your preferred location. Visit the Panama Canal Visitors’ Center at Miraflores Locks, drive through the iconic Cerro Ancon, and enjoy the panoramic views from Amador Causeway. Explore Casco Antiguo’s charming streets, visit the Fish Market, and experience the modern city before returning to your starting point.
For a cultural immersion, the “Embera Tribe & Rainforest Walk Tour with Lunch Included” provides an insightful journey. Begin with a scenic drive through Soberania National Park, ride a canoe up the Chagres River, and explore a traditional Embera village. Engage in cultural experiences, witness dances, and shop for local handicrafts.
Travelers arriving at Colon Homer Port or Fuerte Amador can embark on the same enriching Embera Tribe tour. Additionally, cruise passengers departing from Amador Cruise Terminal can partake in the “Embera Tribe & Rainforest Walk Tour from Amador Cruise Terminal,” starting near the iconic “LA VIDA ES BELLA” sign. Each tour promises a unique and immersive experience, ensuring your time in Panama is unforgettable.
Layover Panama Reviews
Layover Panama has garnered positive reviews for its engaging and informative excursions. Participants find the tours worthwhile, describing them as both educational and enjoyable. The guides are commended for their effectiveness. With a substantial 377 reviews, all rated 5 stars, Layover Panama holds the respectable position of #9 out of 314 Outdoor Activities in Panama City on TripAdvisor. The acknowledgment of the Travelers’ Choice award for 2023 reflects the company’s commitment to providing quality experiences.
Very interesting and worthwhile excursion. Informative and educational while fun too. Guide was great… Road21180073497
Read all reviews of Layover Panama on TripAdvisor.
FAQs
Panama proves to be an excellent choice for tourists with its diverse attractions, including the famous Panama Canal, lush rainforests, and captivating cities.
Panama falls in the middle ground regarding expenses for tourists. While certain aspects like upscale dining and accommodations may be relatively pricier, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available, making it accessible for a range of travelers.
Panama is globally renowned for the Panama Canal, a critical maritime route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This engineering marvel has not only shaped international trade but also become a symbol of human innovation. Moreover, Panama’s fame extends to its diverse ecosystems, including vibrant rainforests and stunning destinations like the San Blas Islands.
Panama’s allure as a tourist destination lies in its geographical variety, offering landscapes ranging from tropical beaches to mountainous rainforests. The country’s blend of historical charm, seen in places like Casco Viejo, and the modern amenities of bustling Panama City enhance its attractiveness. The welcoming locals and a plethora of outdoor activities further contribute to making Panama a compelling choice for those seeking diverse and enriching experiences.