Climate & Weather

Climate & Weather in Panama

Panama has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but significant variation based on location and season. Understanding the climate helps choose the right area for your preferences.

Two Main Seasons

Dry Season (Verano) - December to April:

• Less rain, sunny days
• Lower humidity (but still humid!)
• Best weather for outdoor activities
• High tourist season
• Temperatures: 85-95°F (29-35°C) in lowlands

Rainy Season (Invierno) - May to November:

• Afternoon/evening thunderstorms common
• Mornings often sunny
• Higher humidity
• Greener landscape, fewer tourists
• Lower prices on accommodations
• Temperatures: 80-90°F (27-32°C)

Important: "Rainy season" doesn't mean constant rain. Expect 1-3 hours of afternoon rain most days, but sunshine in mornings.

Climate by Region

Panama City & Lowlands:

• Hot and humid year-round
• Average: 85-92°F (29-33°C)
• High humidity: 75-85%
• Sea breeze provides some relief
• Air conditioning highly recommended

Boquete & Highlands (4,000+ ft elevation):

• Spring-like weather year-round
• Average: 60-75°F (16-24°C)
• Cool nights, warm sunny days
• Lower humidity
• "Eternal spring" climate
• Most popular with heat-averse expats
• Light jacket needed evenings

Beach Areas (Coronado, Pedasí):

• Hot but constant ocean breeze
• Average: 82-90°F (28-32°C)
• Less humid than Panama City
• Trade winds provide natural cooling
• More comfortable than you'd expect

Bocas del Toro (Caribbean):

• More rain than Pacific side
• Average: 78-86°F (26-30°C)
• Can rain any time of year
• Lush, tropical environment

El Valle de Antón:

• Mountain valley at 2,000 ft
• Average: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
• Cooler than lowlands, warmer than Boquete
• Popular weekend retreat from Panama City

Adapting to the Heat

For those not used to tropics:

Strategies:

• Air conditioning in bedroom essential for sleep
• Ceiling fans throughout home
• Plan outdoor activities for morning
• Dress in light, breathable fabrics
• Stay hydrated (drink more water than you think)
• Many expats embrace afternoon "siesta"

Electricity costs:

• AC sparingly: $50-100/month
• AC constantly: $150-300/month
• Highland areas need minimal AC

Health considerations:

• Dehydration risk if not careful
• Sun protection essential (sunscreen, hat)
• Mold prevention in humid areas (dehumidifiers help)

Hurricane Risk

Major advantage: Panama rarely hit by hurricanes

• South of typical hurricane paths
• Occasional tropical storms but usually minor
• One of safest Caribbean/Central American areas for storms

Best Times to Visit/Move

December-April (Dry Season):

• Best weather for exploring
• Ideal for initial visits
• Peak tourism - higher prices

May-November (Rainy Season):

• Actually fine for living (mornings sunny)
• Much greener and lush
• Lower costs
• Good time to move/settle in

Temperature Comparison

Choosing Your Climate

If you love heat/beach:

• Panama City, Coronado, Pedasí work great
• Embrace the tropical lifestyle
• AC and fans keep you comfortable

If you prefer spring weather:

• Boquete is your answer
• Large expat community of fellow temperature refugees
• Can be cloudy/misty during parts of rainy season

If you want variety:

• Live in Boquete, visit beach on weekends
• Live in Panama City, weekend home in highlands
• Panama is small - easy to access different climates

What Expats Say

Positive:

• "Beach and mountains in same day"
• "Love the eternal spring in Boquete"
• "You adapt faster than you think"
• "No winter clothes needed"

Challenges:

• "Humidity takes getting used to"
• "Mold is constant battle"
• "AC costs more than expected"
• "Miss seasonal changes"