first time visit
 

we are thinking of going to Panama- have heard it is very beautiful. Are there trips to the rainforests as there are in Costa Rica to see birds, and other animals. Can someone recommend any specific companies that arrange this in Panama? What is the best time of year to go? thank you

I wish I could be of more help, but our first trip to Panama will be in January. Tammy Liu at Panoramic Panama handled our arrangements and they sound great. Hopefully, everything will come off as planned. It sounds like a wonderful country. Jean

Our family just returned from Panama and we had a fabulous time. There are plenty of companies out there to handle treks or birding outings. Ancon Expeditions did a wonderful job for us. I would also check out www.xtrop.com. You should really invest in some reading materials to give you a good overview of everything there is to do there. Lonely Planet has a guide and William Friar's book Adventures in Nature-Panama is also very good. Adventures in Panama is also a guide company I recall seeing in all my research. Research is exactly what you will need to do for Panama and there are plenty of web sites once you start looking. Have a wonderful time and plan well. It will be worth it. Panama is a must-see. Far less touristy than Costa Rica. And you'll be surprised at the size and sophistacation of Panama City. Enjoy.

Ojoy,
I'm curious have you been to Costa Rica? I was there 15 years ago and enjoyed it but am concerned with it being a bit too touristy. However, we have 2 daughters (13 & 11) and CR does seem to offer some things that would hold their attention. Any thoughts on C.R. vs Panama?
Thanks,
Pete

Pete--I was in Costa Rica eons ago. We went to Panama with our kids and my sister and her daughter (18, 19 and 21) and they had a blast. I don't recall one complaint about being bored. I would pick Panama over CR simply because it is not as touristy and the opportunity to stay with the Kuna Yala Indians in the San Blas or the Embera Indians in the jungle is something you just can't do in CR. Otherwise, it's really a toss up--they are both very similar, although I hear the roads in Panama are much better for getting around. Plus they take U.S. Dollars! No exchange to deal with.

Both countries are excellent options and offer combination programs, both have different attractions for tourists. Why don´t you have a combined program? You can start in Costa Rica visiting the Tortuguero Canals, Arenal Volcano and a beach at the Caribbean (Puerto Viejo) and from there travel to Bocas del Toro Island in Panama, then you can take a flight to Panama City and visit other attractions.

Thank you both!
Great options.
pete

Hi all, if you will visit Panama City, I recommend you contact to Mario in myfriendMario.com , he has an excellent eco-trip deluxe and cheaper family package too. Write him which all you requeriments and he will reply you fast with a good deal. High recommended!