List of Activities You Can Do in Panama With Kids
Panama is an incredibly family-friendly destination offering a mix of nature, culture, adventure, and easy city activities that kids actually enjoy. Whether you’re visiting on vacation or considering relocating, here are some of the best things to do in Panama with kids of all ages.
Wildlife & Nature Experiences
1. Monkey Island (Gamboa)
A boat ride through the Panama Canal watershed where kids can spot capuchins, howler monkeys, and tamarins up close.
2. Gamboa Rainforest Reserve
Nature trails, a butterfly garden, aerial tram rides, and wildlife spotting. Great for curious little explorers.
3. Sloth Sanctuaries & Animal Rescue Centers
Educational and heart-melting visits where kids learn about conservation while seeing sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds.
4. Metropolitan Natural Park (Panama City)
An easy hike right inside the city with chances to see monkeys and birds, plus skyline views kids love.
Beach & Outdoor Fun
5. Taboga Island
A short ferry ride from Panama City with calm beaches, safe swimming, and small-town charm.
6. Amador Causeway
Bike rentals, playgrounds, ice cream stops, and ocean views ideal for an easy family day out.
7. Coronado Beach
Family-friendly Pacific beaches with nearby restaurants and amenities, perfect for weekend trips.
8. San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)
Crystal-clear water, white sand, and unforgettable island experiences for older kids and teens.
Educational & Cultural Activities
9. Panama Canal – Miraflores Visitor Center
Watching massive ships pass through the locks never gets old. It’s educational, interactive, and fascinating.
10. Biomuseo
Bright, colorful exhibits designed to keep kids engaged while learning about Panama’s biodiversity.
11. Casco Viejo
Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, plazas, and open spaces where kids can walk, explore, and snack.
12. Panamá Viejo Ruins
History meets outdoor exploration. Kids can roam ancient ruins while learning Panama’s story.
Adventure & Active Fun
13. POIN Panamá
An indoor adventure attraction with glass floors, swings, and skyline views for older kids and teens.
14. boquete tree trek Hanging Bridges
Suspension bridges through the cloud forest. You can trek across 6 different hanging bridges suspended up to 75 meters high for a birds eye view of the Boquete canopy!
Adventurous but family-friendly.
15. Zip-Lining & Tree Trekking
Available in Boquete, El Valle, and Gamboa for thrill-seeking families.
16. Cerro Ancón
A gentle hike with wildlife sightings and panoramic views over Panama City.
Easy, Low-Stress Family Activities
17. Malls & Indoor Play Areas
Panama’s malls (Multiplaza, Albrook) offer food courts, cinemas, arcades, and kids’ play zones.
18. Cinta Costera
Wide walkways, ocean breezes, bike paths, and playgrounds along the city’s waterfront.
19. Ice Cream & Treat Stops
Local heladerías and cafés are everywhere. Perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
Day Trips & Family Tours
20. Panama Canal Boat Tour
Cruising through part of the canal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience kids remember.
21. Embera Indigenous Village Visit
A cultural experience along the Chagres River featuring music, crafts, and nature.
22. El Valle de Antón
Cooler temperatures, waterfalls, butterflies, and family-friendly hikes in a mountain town.
23. Colón & Portobelo
Learn history through forts, coastlines, and Caribbean culture on guided family tours.
Why Panama Is Great for Families
- Warm weather year-round
- Short travel distances
- Affordable family activities
- Nature + city experiences combined
- Friendly, family-oriented culture
final thoughts
If you’re planning a family trip or considering relocating to Panama, I offer custom family-friendly tours and relocation guidance designed to make your experience smooth and stress-free.