Traveling in Panama can be done on the cheap if you know where to stay. Dream of staying right on the beach or being in a private cabin in the mountains? It’s possible on a budget. I’ve rounded up a list of the best bangs for you buck throughout the entire country, meaning you can pocket that extra cash, or stretch your budget to enjoy a few extra days. Here are Panama’s most inexpensive getaways – all for under $50/night*.
*Actual rates may vary
Bodhi in Santa Catalina
Starting at $40/night – BOOK NOW
Santa Catalina is one of Panama’s best-kept secrets. Here you’ll find a laidback town with great surf, yoga retreats, and the closest access to Isla Coiba for Panama’s best diving & snorkeling. If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, Bodhi has super cute bungalows that start at just $40/night, with breakfast included. They also have bike rentals, lots of hammocks, a yoga terrace, and a communal kitchen where you can cook your own meals if you desire.
El Clandestino in Bocas del Toro
Starting at $50/night – BOOK NOW
Bocas del Toro is where you can fall in love with Panama’s quirky island life and there are so many cool places to stay! I just discovered El Clandestino while doing research for this article and it looks to offer an incredible value for the price. The facilities are new with thoughtful design touches, making it the perfect, secluded accommodation option right on the water for relaxing in Bocas del Toro.
Show Pony Beach Resort in Las Lajas
Starting at $50/night – BOOK NOW
Show Pony Beach Resort offers an incredible value for people looking for an affordable beach vacation. The property has modern, well-designed rooms, a large pool, a restaurant (or you can bring your own food to cook if you want to save money), kayaking in mangroves, and it’s steps away from a 12 km beach. It’s also pet-friendly so you don’t have to pay for someone to watch your pet back in the city.
Skully’s House in Bocas del Toro
Starting at $50/night – BOOK NOW
Skully’s House features beachfront lodging in a secluded, quiet area of Bocas away from the party crowd. It’s the type of place you’ll get to and never want to leave as it has a beach, pool, bar, restaurant, and ATV rentals. Rooms start at $50/night and can fit up to 4-people, making this super affordable to visit as a group.
Selina at Kalu Yala
Starting at $36/night – BOOK NOW
Take a break in Panama’s jungle at Selina in Kalu Yala. This is one of my favorite eco-tourism getaways because even though it feels remote, it’s easily accessible from Panama City (you can use the new metro to get most of the way there). Selina has created a glamping experience where you can stay in a bohemian teepee, which includes all meals during your stay. Days here are spent swimming in the natural pools formed by the river, hiking to waterfalls, drinking rum from their on-site distillery, or just sitting in a hammock and listening to birds and howler monkeys. They do have solar-powered high-speed internet just in case you need to get a little work done.
Hostal Pachamama on Isla Cañas
Starting at $15/night – BOOK NOW
If you want to get back to basics and enjoy nature uninterrupted – Hostal Pachamama has basic cabins starting at $40/night and tents for $15/night. There’s no electricity or wifi on the island so this is truly a place to disconnect while enjoying a beach to yourself and possibly getting the chance to see sea turtles lay their eggs.
Meanwhile in Veracruz
Starting at $26/night – BOOK NOW
Meanwhile in Veracruz is a small guesthouse with a swimming pool and it’s a short walk from the beach. This is one of the closest options to Panama City as it’s only 25-30 minutes away without traffic. The property has beautiful murals, colorful decor, hammocks, and is surrounded by tropical plants. The price is also very attractive, starting at $26/night with breakfast included.
Casa India Dormida at El Valle de Anton
Starting at $42/night – BOOK NOW
Casa India Dormida is a colorful house located In El Valle, close to the famous India Dormida hiking trail. The property has gorgeous views, hammocks, and a super helpful owner to make sure you enjoy your stay. Rooms start at just $42/ night with breakfast and complimentary bikes included.
Experience Panama
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