Whale Watching in Panama 2024-2025

Panama offers an excellent spots for whale-watching, attracting thousands of humpback whales twice a year. It is one of only two places in the world where humpback whales migrate from both the Northern and Southern hemispheres.

Best time to watch whales in Panama

During July–October and December–February, you are guaranteed to see huge whales around the Las Perlas archipelago. If you decide to visit Panama at these times of year, you may even hear them sing during their mating period. Generally, watching whales in Panama is a unique and unforgettable opportunity as these species are unfortunately under extinction.

Places for whale watching in Panama

The most popular spots to see the whales here are Coiba National Park, Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge, and the Gulf of Chiriqui. Though you can see dolphins and bottlenoses, a humpback whale is totally the star of the show.

Gulf of Chiriqui

One of the best whale-watching tours in Panama can be found in the Gulf of Chiriqui, where humpbacks prefer the warm waters found off Panama's Pacific coast to give birth. Guests can try their luck spotting humpback whales in the Chiriqui Nationa Marine Park as early as May and as late as November. However, the pods of humpbacks are most active and in greater numbers between July and October. The Whale Watching Gulf of Chiriqui + Island Beach Break costs $75 for adults, departing on Tuesdays and Fridays at 8 am from the Boquete.

Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge in Pedasí

The wildlife reserve is the home to over 5,000 frigate birds, plenty of iguanas, and humpback whales during their migration. The warm tropical waters surrounding the Pacific Coast of Pedasi provide an ideal environment for whales to give birth to their calves. Whale-Watching Tour prices range from $15 to $150, with $150 being the price for a private tour for two people. The tour operates from July 15 to October 15, starting at 8:30 am and lasting until 2:30 pm.

Coiba National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Coiba National Park contains an abundance of marine wildlife, including whales. The stunning surroundings offer excellent spots to observe these magnificent creatures, along with other cetaceans. You can join the Whale Watching Tour at Coiba Island for $60 plus the entrance fee to Coiba National Park( $5 for Panamanians and $20 for foreigners).

Islas de las Perlas

Islas de las Perlas, the archipelago, and Contadora Island within it are a great option if you're looking for humpback whales. Orcas can also be found in this area, which will be an unforgettable bonus. Guided tours on Islas de las Perlas range in price from $45 to $160, depending on your preferences.

Other whale watching places in Panama

Additionally, you can always find other spots like the Azuero Peninsula, Panama Bay, Bocas del Toro, Isla Taboga, or Isla Contadora, where visitors can spend time in the company of whales and create lasting memories.