Panama is a tropical destination with temperatures that stay around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. The humidity and storms can be a challenge, so the best time to take a Panama Canal cruise is usually during the months of February, March, September and October when there is less rain. December and early May are also good times to go, as the days are usually dry and sunny. Prices tend to be lower in December, making it a great time for budget-minded travelers.
The Panama Canal is one of the seven modern wonders and attracts tourists from all over the world. Caribbean cruises typically visit the port of Colón at the eastern end of the canal, while Pacific coast cruises visit Panama City at the western end. The dry season is between mid-December and mid-April and provides a respite from the tropical climate. Even so, it's normal to be hot, but rain is rare in the canal area, and this may be the best time to travel without tropical storms frustrating travel plans or hiding the view.
The Caribbean side of the Panama Canal is twice as likely to rain, which is ideal for lowering temperatures and relieving humidity, but it's best to avoid this stretch of the Canal between April and July as it's prone to sudden rains in the afternoon. Prices of Panama Canal cruises depend on the cruise line you use, the booking method, the accommodation you book on the cruise, the itinerary you organize, and the number of family members you have on your cruise. If you have school-age children and are limited to school holidays, your options will be significantly limited due to the typical length of Panama Canal cruises. Rain also causes the jungles of Panama to explode with life, so the landscape around the canal can be especially green in the rainy season.
The best time to visit Panama is during its dry season from late winter to late spring. The worst season is from June to November when it's rainy. With its impressive engineering of its locks, view of huge ships passing through and lush surrounding jungles, a Panama Canal cruise is an unforgettable experience for travelers.
