This might sound crazy, but Panama can be a day trip for travellers from Trinidad and Tobago.
With daily early-morning departures and late-night return flights, the Central American country is an ideal option for a quick escape centred around shopping, food or culture.
Flights from Piarco International Airport with Panama’s flag carrier Copa Airlines start at around TT$2,700, with one popular option departing at 3:50am and landing at Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 5:54am. The early arrival means travellers will have several hours to fill before the city fully comes alive.
If shopping is on the agenda, Tocumen International Airport is a good place to start. The duty-free area offers competitive deals on electronics, alcohol, fragrances and beauty products, making it an easy way to pass the time before heading into the city.
Once daylight breaks, it’s time to head out for breakfast.
A taxi or Uber will get you into Panama City quickly, but travellers are advised to confirm taxi prices in advance to avoid being overcharged. Uber remains a popular option and is often cheaper than traditional taxis.
For the adventurous, there are also the train and buses are also available at the airport which can take you to the city’s main transport hubs.
Line one of the metro system takes you direct to Albrook Mall.
To eat like a local, make your way to a fonda, which are small, traditional eateries that serve hearty Panamanian meals. Popular breakfast options include fried tortillas with pork, empanadas, ceviche and tamales.
What to see in Panama City
After breakfast, several attractions are within easy reach:
- Casco Antiguo: The historic old town, known for its colourful colonial buildings, churches and seaside views. It’s perfect for photos, walking tours and souvenir shopping.
- Panama Canal Visitor Centre (Miraflores Locks): Watch massive ships pass through one of the world’s most important waterways and learn about the canal’s history.
- Cinta Costera: A scenic coastal strip ideal for a stroll, offering sweeping views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean.
Shopping enthusiasts can then head to popular spots such as Albrook Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in Latin America, or explore smaller boutiques around the city.
Not into shopping? Try these experiences
For travellers more interested in experiences than malls, Panama offers several half-day tours close to the city:
- Panama Canal partial transit tour: A boat ride through part of the canal, offering a unique perspective on the engineering marvel.
- Monkey Island tour: A short boat trip on Gatun Lake where visitors can see capuchin and howler monkeys up close.
- Emberá Indigenous Village: A cultural excursion featuring traditional music, dance and cuisine, located less than two hours from Panama City.
- Panama City food tours: Guided tastings through local neighbourhoods highlighting Panamanian flavours and street food.
These tours typically last only a few hours, making them manageable even on a tight schedule.
Getting back home
Return flights usually depart Panama City at 9:41pm, arriving back in Trinidad at 1:45am the following day. Travellers are strongly advised to leave shopping and city areas by 6:30pm at the latest, as traffic in Panama City can be heavy and unpredictable during the evening rush.
With all this in mind, is Panama really too far for a day trip from Trinidad and Tobago?
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