Capturing Panama’s Magic: My Photography Journey
The first time I visited Panama in 2017, I expected to stay for three days. I ended up extending my trip to three weeks. Something about this country—where jungle meets city meets pristine beaches—captivated me in a way nowhere else had. Since then, I’ve returned six times, camera in hand, watching Panama evolve while documenting its most photogenic corners.
During my last visit in late 2024, I found myself sitting on the seawall of Casco Viejo at sunset, watching the modern skyline glow gold against darkening skies. A local vendor passed by, offering me a cup of raspado (shaved ice with fruit syrup). “Para la calor,” he smiled—”for the heat.” That moment, sweet syrup melting on my tongue while capturing the perfect golden hour shot of Panama City’s contrasting architectures, summarized everything I love about photographing this country. It’s the unexpected moments that create the most memorable images.
Panama often gets overshadowed by its Central American neighbors, but for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts, this is actually a blessing. You’ll find fewer crowds photobombing your shots and more authentic experiences to capture. From the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to hidden jungle waterfalls and colonial streets, I’ve spent years finding the perfect angles and times for that Instagram-worthy shot.
In this guide, I’m sharing my insider knowledge of Panama’s most photogenic locations, including exact spots, best times of day, and the technical settings that have helped me capture images that consistently perform well on social media. I’ve also included several lesser-known locations that even most Panama travel guides don’t mention!
1. Casco Viejo: Panama’s Colonial Gem
Panama City’s historic quarter is arguably the country’s most photogenic urban landscape. I’ve watched this UNESCO World Heritage site transform over my six visits, from a partially abandoned neighborhood to a carefully restored showpiece.
Best Photo Spots in Casco Viejo
- Plaza de Francia – The seawall provides a perfect vantage point for skyline shots with the contrast of old and new Panama
- Paseo Esteban Huertas – This bougainvillea-covered walkway creates natural framing for your shots
- Las Bóvedas – These former dungeons-turned-promenade offer dramatic arched frames for your photos
- Plaza Herrera – Capture the colonial architecture with beautiful lighting, especially in the late afternoon
“Photographer’s tip: Visit Casco Viejo twice—once at sunrise (around 6am) when the streets are empty and again at golden hour (5-6pm) when the buildings glow. I’ve found most tourists don’t arrive until 9am, giving you several hours of crowd-free shooting.”
Insider Secret: The Hidden Rooftop
For my favorite skyline shot of Panama City, head to the rooftop bar at Selina Casco Viejo. Even if you’re not staying there, you can order a drink (try the local Seco Herrerano with pineapple juice for $5) and access their rooftop for spectacular 360-degree views. Go about 30 minutes before sunset and stay through blue hour—the transformation of the skyline is magical. This spot isn’t widely known among tourists, but local photographers frequent it.
2. Panama Canal: Engineering Wonder Meets Natural Beauty
When I first visited the Panama Canal, I expected an industrial eyesore. Instead, I found a fascinating blend of engineering and natural beauty that offers surprising photographic opportunities. The massive ships passing through lush jungle settings create dramatic scale contrasts.
Best Viewing Points
- Miraflores Locks Visitor Center – The classic viewing spot (entrance fee: $20 for foreigners)
- Gatún Locks – Less crowded with closer views of ships passing
- Restaurant Atlantic & Pacific – Enjoy a meal while photographing ships (my lunch cost $25 but saved me the entrance fee)
“Money-saving tip: Skip the expensive visitor center and head to the free viewing platform at the Balboa Yacht Club. You’ll get distant but free views of ships entering the canal, particularly good with a zoom lens.”
Photography Tips for the Canal
Time your visit to coincide with scheduled transits. The Panama Canal Authority updates their transit schedule daily. The most dramatic shots happen when massive cargo vessels or cruise ships pass through—the lock gates opening and water levels changing create dynamic images. A wide-angle lens helps capture the scale, while a telephoto zoom lets you frame interesting details of the ships.
3. San Blas Islands: Pristine Paradise
If there’s one place in Panama that consistently breaks my Instagram engagement records, it’s the San Blas archipelago. These 365 islands are largely untouched, administered by the indigenous Guna people who maintain strict control over development and tourism.
On my second trip to Panama, I spent three days island-hopping through San Blas. The powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and tiny palm-fringed islands are almost ridiculous in their postcard perfection. One rainy afternoon, our Guna guide Fernando told me, “Aquí, la naturaleza manda“—”Here, nature rules.” That respect for the environment is why these islands remain so pristine.
Most Photogenic Islands
- Dog Island (Isla Perro) – Features a shipwreck just offshore that’s perfect for snorkeling photos
- Starfish Island – Named for the abundance of starfish visible in the clear shallows
- Isla Pelícano – A tiny island you can walk around in 2 minutes, perfect for those “private island” shots
- Isla Diablo – Dramatic coconut palms that lean out over the water
“Respect the culture: Always ask permission before photographing Guna people. When I forgot this rule at a local market, an elder gently reminded me that photos should be consensual, not taken like ‘stealing souls.’ This was an important lesson in photography ethics I’ve never forgotten.”
Getting the Perfect San Blas Shot
The intense Caribbean sun creates harsh lighting conditions by midday. I’ve found the best photography happens either early morning (6-8am) or late afternoon (4-6pm). Bring a polarizing filter to cut glare on the water and enhance those turquoise colors. Drone photography requires special permission and a fee payable to the Guna authorities (currently $20).
| Travel Option | Cost (2025) | Photography Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Day Trip from Panama City | $120-150 | Limited time but hits major spots |
| 2-3 Day Tour | $250-350 | Multiple islands, overnight for star photography |
| Sailing Charter | $400-600+ | Best for serious photographers, flexible schedule |
Lodging and Logistics
Accommodation in San Blas is basic—think palm-thatched huts with minimal amenities. During my last visit in 2024, I stayed at Cabanas Chichime, paying $80 per night including meals. The simplicity is part of the charm, but bring power banks for your devices as electricity is often only available for a few hours each evening.
4. El Valle de Antón: The Volcanic Valley
Set in the crater of an extinct volcano, El Valle offers unique landscapes that make for distinctive Instagram content. The combination of misty mountains, waterfalls, and unusual rock formations provides diverse shooting opportunities in a compact area.
Must-Photograph Locations
- La India Dormida (The Sleeping Indian Girl) – A mountain ridge resembling a reclining woman
- Chorro El Macho – A 70-meter waterfall with emerald pools
- Piedra Pintada – Ancient petroglyphs (use soft morning light for best results)
- El Valle Market – Colorful produce and handicrafts, especially lively on Sundays
The microclimate here means frequent morning mist that burns off by around 9-10am. This creates ethereal conditions for landscape photography, particularly at the La India Dormida lookout point. I’ve had my best results using a tripod and shooting multiple exposures to handle the dramatic light differences between mist-covered valleys and bright skies.
A Photographer’s Schedule for El Valle
Based on my several visits, here’s my ideal photographic day in El Valle:
- 5:30am: Hike to La India Dormida viewpoint for sunrise (bring a flashlight for the dark trail)
- 8:30am: Visit the local market as vendors are setting up
- 10:00am: Head to Chorro El Macho waterfall before crowds arrive
- 2:00pm: Visit Piedra Pintada during softer afternoon light
- 5:00pm: Return to a high viewpoint for sunset colors over the crater
“Money-saving tip: Skip the expensive hotels and stay at Bodhi Hostel ($15 for dorms, $45 for private rooms). Their garden area has hammocks perfectly positioned for morning crater views—I got some of my best misty mountain shots without even leaving the property.”
5. Bocas del Toro: Caribbean Island Vibes
Bocas del Toro’s blend of Caribbean culture, clear waters, and lush rainforests creates a visual paradise. This archipelago on Panama’s northern coast has become more popular with influencers in recent years, but still offers plenty of uncrowded spots.
During my first visit in 2018, I made the rookie mistake of only staying on the main island (Isla Colón). Now I know that the most photogenic locations require island-hopping to smaller islands like Bastimentos and Zapatillas.
Instagram Hotspots in Bocas
- Starfish Beach – Shallow waters with abundant starfish (early morning has fewer crowds)
- Red Frog Beach – Dramatic shoreline with jungle meeting red-tinted sand
- Blue Coconut – Overwater bar with swings and platforms perfect for jumping shots
- Isla Zapatillas – The most pristine beaches in the archipelago, worth the extra boat trip
- Bocas Town’s Colorful Buildings – Caribbean-style architecture in vibrant colors
Weather Considerations
Bocas has its own microclimate with frequent brief rain showers, especially from May to November. On my last visit, I lost two memory cards to water damage after getting caught in a sudden downpour. Now I always bring waterproof cases for my gear and plan indoor backup activities for rainy afternoons.
“Insider tip: For a truly unique shot, book the bioluminescent tour with Bocas Sustainable Tourism ($35). Using a slow shutter speed (4-6 seconds), you can capture the glowing water as you move your hands through it. It’s challenging but produces magical results unlike anything else in Panama.”
6. Boquete: Misty Mountain Magic
Tucked in Panama’s highlands near the Costa Rican border, Boquete offers a completely different aesthetic from the tropical beaches. The combination of coffee plantations, cloud forests, and the imposing Volcán Barú creates landscapes that feel almost mystical, especially in the frequently misty mornings.
Prime Photography Locations
- Sendero Los Quetzales Trail – Cloud forest with opportunities for wildlife photography
- Coffee Plantations – Geometric patterns of coffee plants on hillsides
- Lost Waterfalls Trail – Three cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation
- Mi Jardín es Su Jardín – Private garden open to visitors with spectacular flowers
During my 2022 visit, I hired a local guide named Carlos who showed me exactly when the light hits the Lost Waterfalls for rainbow effects (between 10am-noon on clear days). His knowledge of local conditions saved me hours of waiting for the right light.
Technical Considerations for Boquete Photography
The high humidity and frequent mist in Boquete creates challenges for photography. I made the mistake of changing lenses outdoors during my first visit and had condensation issues for days afterward. Now I pack silica gel packets with my gear and only change lenses in climate-controlled environments.
For waterfall photography, a neutral density filter is essential to achieve those silky water effects even in daylight. I use a variable ND filter that allows me to adjust for different lighting conditions.
7. Panama City Skyline: Modern Architecture
Panama City’s dramatic skyline rivals those of much larger cities, creating a striking backdrop for urban photography. The curved coastline allows for varied compositions as you move around the bay.
Best Vantage Points
- Cinta Costera – The coastal beltway offers unobstructed views, especially near the Mahatma Gandhi Plaza
- Amador Causeway – Distance shots of the entire skyline, particularly good at sunset
- Panama Sign – Iconic lettering with the skyline behind (popular but effective)
- Rooftop Bars – Locations like Salvaje or Tantalo offer elevated perspectives
“Money-saving tip: Instead of paying $15-20 for a single drink at a fancy rooftop bar, head to the free public observation deck at Multiplaza Pacific Mall. The top floor parking garage has panoramic city views that are particularly stunning at night.”
Night Photography Challenge
Panama City’s skyline comes alive after dark with colorful lighting on many buildings. To capture these scenes, bring a tripod for long exposures—I learned this the hard way after ending up with blurry nighttime shots during my first visit. Security guards sometimes question tripod use in public spaces, but I’ve found that showing them some of my photos and explaining my project usually resolves any issues.
8. Isla Taboga: The Island of Flowers
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Panama City lies Taboga Island, a colorful escape that feels worlds away from the urban bustle. Known as the “Island of Flowers” for its abundant bougainvillea and hibiscus, this small island packs impressive visual variety into its 12 square kilometers.
Photo Opportunities
- Village Views – Colorful houses climbing the hillside
- Cerro de la Cruz – Hilltop cross with panoramic views of the Bay of Panama
- Second Oldest Church in the Americas – Iglesia San Pedro, dating from 1524
- Beach Pier – Wooden structure extending into transparent waters
The ferries to Taboga ($20 round-trip) run several times daily from the Amador Causeway. I recommend taking the earliest ferry (usually 8:30am) to maximize photography time before day-trippers arrive around midday.
Composition Strategy
During my visits to Taboga, I’ve found that including colorful fishing boats in the foreground dramatically improves shoreline shots. Most boats return to harbor by 10am, providing perfect timing for late morning photography with the village as backdrop.
9. Portobelo: Pirate History in Decay
On Panama’s Caribbean coast, the historic port town of Portobelo offers a haunting blend of colonial ruins, jungle encroachment, and Afro-Caribbean culture. UNESCO-listed but somewhat neglected, the crumbling Spanish fortifications create moody, dramatic scenes.
Key Photography Sites
- Fuerte San Jerónimo – The main fortress with weathered stone and cannons
- Aduana (Customs House) – Colonial building in various states of restoration
- Iglesia de San Felipe – Home to the Black Christ statue
- Congo Art – Colorful local paintings and crafts reflecting the Afro-Panamanian heritage
When I visited in 2023, I made the mistake of arriving at midday when the harsh Caribbean sun created unflattering shadows and washed-out stonework. The site’s caretaker, Mr. Rodríguez, advised me to return near closing time (4-5pm) when the golden light dramatically transformed the ruins. He was absolutely right—the late afternoon glow on the weathered stone walls created the atmospheric images I was hoping for.
Festival Photography
If possible, time your visit to coincide with the Festival of the Black Christ (October 21) or Congo dances (during Carnival in February). These cultural celebrations feature vibrant costumes and traditions that make for compelling documentary photography. Just remember to photograph respectfully and ask permission when focusing on individuals.
“Equipment tip: The humidity in Portobelo is extreme—I had lens fogging issues throughout my visit. Store your camera in a sealed bag with desiccant packets when not in use, and give equipment time to acclimate before shooting.”
10. Santa Catalina & Coiba National Park: Surfing & Marine Life
The tiny surfing village of Santa Catalina serves as the gateway to Coiba National Park, Panama’s premier marine reserve. This combination offers both action sports photography opportunities and underwater imagery in pristine settings.
Photography Highlights
- Surf Breaks – La Punta and Playa Estero offer consistent waves with dramatic backdrops
- Coiba Island Beaches – Untouched white sand shores with jungle meeting sea
- Marine Life – Sharks, rays, and colorful reef fish for underwater photography
- Former Prison Ruins – Atmospheric abandoned structures on Coiba Island
I’ve learned that Santa Catalina has two distinct photographic personalities. During the December-April high season, the clear waters and consistent waves make for classic surf photography. In the green season (May-November), dramatic storm clouds create moody landscapes, especially at sunset.
Getting to Coiba
Day trips to Coiba from Santa Catalina cost $80-120 depending on the season. For serious underwater photography, consider the overnight camping option ($150+) which allows you to shoot during the optimal early morning hours when marine life is most active.
I recommend Coiba Diving & Fishing for photography-focused trips. Their guides understand the needs of photographers and will position the boat for optimal lighting conditions.
11. Gamboa Rainforest: Wildlife Paradise
Just 30 minutes from Panama City, the area around Gamboa offers accessible rainforest photography. The meeting of Gatun Lake with dense jungle creates diverse ecosystems packed with photogenic wildlife.
Prime Shooting Locations
- Pipeline Road – World-famous bird-watching trail (best at dawn)
- Gamboa Rainforest Reserve – Aerial tram providing canopy-level access
- Monkey Islands – Boat tours to islands inhabited by several monkey species
- Summit Botanical Gardens – Controlled environment for plant photography
Wildlife photography requires patience and preparation. On my first visit to Pipeline Road, I saw very little because I arrived too late (around 10am) and made too much noise walking. When I returned with a local guide who had me arrive at 5:30am and move quietly, the difference was remarkable—toucans, sloths, monkeys, and dozens of bird species appeared as if on cue.
Essential Equipment
For Gamboa photography, I consider these items essential:
- Telephoto lens (at least 300mm equivalent)
- Fast SD cards (wildlife opportunities pass quickly)
- Rain cover for your camera (sudden showers are common)
- Insect repellent (protect both yourself and your gear)
“Unexpected tip: The Gamboa Rainforest Resort lobby has a spectacular view of the meeting of the Chagres River with Gatun Lake. You don’t need to be a guest to enjoy the observation deck, and many animals visit the surrounding trees. I’ve photographed toucans and howler monkeys while enjoying air conditioning and a coffee ($3).”
12. Playa Venao: Surf Beach Paradise
On Panama’s Azuero Peninsula, Playa Venao offers a perfect crescent of beach backed by jungle-covered hills. The consistent surf breaks, dramatic sunsets, and laid-back atmosphere make this a photographer’s dream location.
Best Shooting Times & Locations
- Sunrise – Often misty with surfers silhouetted against orange skies
- High Tide – More dramatic wave action (check local tide charts)
- Sunset – The beach faces west, providing perfect sunset alignment
- Hill Lookout Points – Several trails lead to elevated views of the bay
During my 2023 stay at Playa Venao, I discovered that the beach changes character dramatically throughout the day. Early mornings have a misty, ethereal quality with local fishermen casting nets. Midday brings vibrant colors as the sun illuminates the turquoise water. Sunset transforms everything to gold and pink. I recommend shooting the same compositions at different times to capture this transformation.
Accommodation with Views
I recommend Selina Playa Venao which offers budget options (dorms from $20) to private rooms with balconies (from $80). Their beachfront location means you can capture dawn surf sessions without leaving the property.
13. Las Lajas: Panama’s Longest Beach
While less-known internationally, Las Lajas offers 13 kilometers of wide, gently sloping sandy beach that’s ideal for minimalist compositions. Located in Chiriquí Province, this beach sees mostly local tourism, creating opportunities for authentic cultural imagery.
Photographic Features
- Vast Sandy Expanses – Perfect for negative space compositions
- Shallow Tidal Pools – Create natural mirrors during low tide
- Local Life – Panamanian families enjoying beach culture
- Palm-Lined Shore – Classic tropical framing elements
I discovered Las Lajas by accident when a local family I befriended in David invited me to join their weekend outing. What struck me was how different it felt from Panama’s Caribbean beaches—the Pacific waves are gentler here, the sand is darker, and the vibe is completely local. On weekends, you’ll find families cooking ceviche and grilling fish right on the beach.
Cultural Sensitivity
When photographing local beachgoers, I always ask permission with a simple “¿Puedo tomar una foto?” Most people readily agree, especially if you show interest in their activities or offer to send them the images later. This approach has led to some of my most authentic Panamanian lifestyle photographs.
14. Volcán Barú: Panama’s Highest Point
At 3,475 meters (11,401 feet), Volcán Barú offers a unique opportunity—on clear days, you can photograph both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea from one vantage point. The challenging hike rewards photographers with otherworldly landscapes and dramatic cloud formations.
Photography Challenges & Opportunities
- Pre-dawn Summit Hike – Starting around midnight to reach the top for sunrise
- Crater Views – Volcanic landscape contrasts with surrounding greenery
- Cloud Formations – Often creating a sea of clouds below you
- Weather Variability – Rapidly changing conditions create dramatic lighting
I attempted the Barú climb in 2019 but underestimated its difficulty. The combination of altitude, cold (temperatures can drop to near freezing at night), and my heavy camera gear meant I only made it three-quarters of the way before turning back. In 2022, I tried again with better preparation—hiring a guide ($50), carrying less equipment, and properly acclimating in Boquete for two days beforehand. The successful summit produced some of my most spectacular Panama photographs.
“Gear note: The extreme temperature variations on Barú wreak havoc on batteries. I lost power halfway through my sunrise shoot because I didn’t keep spare batteries warm. Now I always sleep with my extra batteries in my sleeping bag and keep spares in inner pockets close to my body during cold shoots.”
Alternative Access
If the full hike seems daunting, 4×4 tours can drive you to the summit (around $100 per person). While less adventurous, this option allows you to bring more photography equipment and arrive less exhausted.
15. Emberá Villages: Indigenous Culture
For cultural photography that goes beyond the typical tourist experience, visiting an Emberá indigenous village offers unparalleled opportunities. These communities maintain traditional lifestyles while selectively engaging with tourism on their own terms.
Visual Elements
- Traditional Attire – Distinctive clothing and body paint
- Thatched Dwellings – Elevated homes built using ancient techniques
- River Transportation – Dugout canoes navigating jungle waterways
- Craft Demonstrations – Basket weaving and carving using natural materials
My most meaningful photography experience in Panama came from a two-day stay with an Emberá community near the Chagres River. Rather than the brief tourist visits, this extended time allowed me to capture more intimate, relaxed images as the community went about daily life. The chief, Alberto, explained their complex relationship with photography—while proud to share their culture, they’re wary of exploitative images.
Respectful Photography Practices
The Emberá have specific protocols around photography:
- Always request permission before photographing individuals
- Offer to share resulting images (bring a portable printer if possible)
- Contribute to the community (beyond the tour fee)
- Avoid photographing certain private ceremonies unless explicitly invited
I arrange my visits through Emberá Tours, which is owned and operated by community members. This ensures the economic benefits flow directly to the people being photographed. A day tour costs around $85, while overnight experiences range from $150-250.
Your Panama Photography Adventure: Making It Happen
After six years of photographing Panama, I’ve learned that this country rewards those who venture beyond the obvious. While the Panama Canal and Casco Viejo deserve their fame, it’s the lesser-known locations—a hidden waterfall in El Valle, a remote corner of Bocas del Toro, or a local festival in Portobelo—that will make your Instagram feed truly stand out.
5-Step Action Plan for Your Panama Photography Trip
- Plan around light – Schedule your most important locations during golden hour (typically 6-7am and 5-6:30pm in Panama)
- Consider the seasons – The dry season (December-April) offers more reliable conditions but more tourists. Green season (May-November) brings dramatic clouds and fewer crowds.
- Pack strategically – Humidity protection is essential; bring silica gel packets, rain covers, and waterproof bags.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases – Even simple terms like “¿Puedo tomar una foto?” (Can I take a photo?) will improve your experience.
- Build in buffer days – Weather in Panama can disrupt plans; allow flexibility to return to key locations if conditions aren’t ideal the first time.
Sustainable Photography Practices
The growing popularity of Instagram has put pressure on many of Panama’s photogenic locations. As photographers, we have a responsibility to preserve what makes these places special:
- Stay on marked trails, especially in fragile ecosystems like cloud forests
- Avoid disturbing wildlife for the sake of a photo (no baiting or disrupting natural behaviors)
- Support locally-owned accommodations and guides
- Consider carbon offsetting your flights to Panama
- Share not just beautiful images but also conservation messages in your captions
“Final money-saving tip: Panama uses the US dollar, but prices vary dramatically between tourist zones and local areas. I’ve saved hundreds by staying in neighborhoods just 1-2 blocks away from the main tourist streets. In Casco Viejo, for example, accommodations on Avenida A can be half the price of similar options on Avenida Central, despite being just a 3-minute walk apart.”
Whether you’re shooting with a professional camera setup or simply using your smartphone, Panama offers endless visual gifts. The country’s diversity—from colonial architecture to pristine beaches, mountain landscapes to vibrant indigenous cultures—means you’ll return with a portfolio unlike anywhere else in Central America.
After my six visits, I’m still discovering new corners to photograph. That’s the magic of Panama—no matter how many times you visit, there’s always another perfect frame waiting to be captured.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Panama for photography?
Panama has two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the green season (May to November). For pure reliability, the dry season offers consistent sunshine and clearer skies, making it ideal for most photography. However, I’ve captured some of my most dramatic images during the green season when afternoon thunderstorms create spectacular lighting conditions and clouds. If you’re focusing on wildlife photography, the early green season (May-July) offers the best combination of lush landscapes and active animals.
Is Panama safe for photographers with expensive equipment?
In my experience, Panama is generally safe for photographers, but common-sense precautions are essential. I’ve never had issues in tourist areas during daylight hours. For city photography, particularly in Panama City, I avoid displaying expensive equipment unnecessarily and use a non-descript camera bag. In remote areas like San Blas or Bocas del Toro, theft is less common, but environmental hazards (water, humidity, sand) pose more risk to your gear than people do. Consider insurance for your most valuable equipment.
Do I need a permit to photograph in Panama’s national parks?
For personal photography, standard entrance fees cover your right to photograph within national parks. However, if you’re shooting commercially (advertising, stock photography intended for sale, or professional modeling shoots), you’ll need special permits from MiAmbiente, Panama’s environmental authority. Drone photography has additional restrictions—many national parks prohibit drones entirely, while others require specific permits that must be arranged weeks in advance.
What camera equipment should I bring to Panama?
Panama’s diverse environments call for versatile equipment. Based on my experience, a weather-sealed camera body is worth the investment due to frequent rain showers and high humidity. For lenses, I recommend a wide-angle (16-35mm equivalent) for landscapes and architecture, a versatile mid-range zoom (24-70mm equivalent) for everyday shooting, and a telephoto (70-200mm minimum, 100-400mm ideal) for wildlife. For underwater photography in locations like Bocas del Toro or Coiba, either a waterproof camera or a housing for your existing camera is essential.
How can I photograph indigenous communities respectfully?
Panama’s indigenous groups—primarily the Guna, Emberá, and Ngäbe-Buglé—have different attitudes toward photography. The Guna (in San Blas) are most restrictive, often charging photography fees and prohibiting certain types of images. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, explain how you plan to use the images, and offer to share copies. Working with community-approved guides ensures you’ll understand specific cultural protocols. I’ve found that spending time getting to know people before photographing them not only respects their dignity but results in more authentic, meaningful images.
What are the best transportation options for photographers in Panama?
Transportation choice depends on your photography priorities. For maximum flexibility to chase light and reach remote locations, renting a 4WD vehicle is ideal, though relatively expensive ($50-80/day). Panama’s public transportation system works well for budget travelers, with comfortable buses connecting major destinations ($10-25 for most intercity routes). For photographers carrying substantial equipment, I recommend a combination—use buses for long distances, then hire local taxis or guides for day trips to specific photography locations. In areas like Bocas del Toro or San Blas, water taxis are the primary transportation method.
Are there any cultural taboos about photography I should know?
Beyond the indigenous communities mentioned above, Panama is generally photography-friendly. However, avoid photographing military installations, border crossings, or government buildings without permission. In Panama City, the presidential palace (Palacio de las Garzas) has specific restrictions. Street photography in local neighborhoods should be approached respectfully—if photographing people is your priority, engaging with subjects first almost always yields better results than shooting candidly from a distance.
What apps or tools are helpful for photography planning in Panama?
I rely on several apps when planning photography in Panama: PhotoPills for sun/moon positioning and planning golden hour shots; Windy for weather forecasts specifically tailored to photographers’ needs (cloud cover predictions are especially useful); Google Maps with offline areas downloaded in advance for remote regions; and the iNaturalist app to identify wildlife and plants in your images afterward. For waterproof paper maps, the Panama Mapas series by Traveller’s Maps are excellent for areas with poor connectivity.
References
- Panama Tourism Authority – Official tourism information
- Lonely Planet: Panama – Comprehensive travel guide with photography locations
- Atlas Panama – Detailed maps and geographical information
- Smithsonian Magazine: Exploring Panama’s Coiba National Park
- Panama Canal Authority – Ship transit schedules and visitor information
- The Guardian: Panama City Guide – Urban photography locations
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Fortifications of Portobelo
- Bocas del Toro Travel Guide – Island-specific information
- Tropical Discovery: The Emberá People – Cultural background
- Outdoor Photographer: Tropical Paradise of Panama
- National Park Holidays: Panama – Conservation areas information
- MiAmbiente Protected Areas – Official environmental authority information