Panama: Ten Reasons the Rainy Season Rocks

Almanacs will tell you that Panama’s rainy season is about seven months long, from May through November. They’re not wrong, but the stats can be misleading. Fact is, you need more than a string of data to understand Panama’s climate. Spend a little time here or compare Panama to other countries, and you’ll see it has one of the world’s best weather environments.

Here are ten reasons Panama’s rainy season rocks:

1. It’s not really that rainy!

In Panama’s most popular areas along the Pacific, the so-called rainy season offers blue skies. Most days are sunny, with about an hour of rain in the afternoon. There are places in the world that are known for their monsoons…places where day after day of cloudy skies can have a depressing effect. (I love Seattle, but boy can it be gray!) Panama isn’t one of them. We really do get some 300 sunny mornings a year!

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2. Panama gets even greener

With over 40% of its land designated for rainforest preservation, Panama is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors. Certain areas will look a bit sere during the summer months of December through April. But once the May showers have begun to work their magic, Panama’s legendary foliage is at its best. This is a great time of year for road trips and hikes in Panama’s many national parks.

3. The Cultural Calendar Doesn’t Let Up

Panama is a place of fairs, festivals and other fun events. And in the months after April, Panama’s social scene keeps chugging along. This month alone there are scads of activities to choose from…ribald comedy, flamenco and tango, new art exhibits, concerts for every genre imaginable, intellectual and educational symposiums, one of many annual film festivals, folklore performances and much, much more.

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4. It’s Mango Time

Once the dry season ends, mango trees begin to reveal their first hard green fruits. And it’s not long before green mango salad (a local favorite) shows up on supermarket shelves. If you have access to a mango tree, you can make this mouth-puckering treat by yourself. Slice up a not-quite-ripe mango (irregular shapes and sizes are A-OK), douse with apple cider vinegar, and sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper. It’s a perfect picnic side dish!

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5. Patron Saint Parties: Panama’s Madcap Patronales

Among the festivals that take place here every year are “mini-carnivals” or Patronales. These traditional events are the perfect way to lend some local flavor to your visit. There are parades and parties featuring oxcart floats, dance performances, and pretty girls in polleras (an off-the-shoulders dress worn on special occasions). Every town has its patronales and they happen at different times of the year…so you can always find a party in Panama! But  why not try the Fiesta Patronal de San Juan Bautista? It’s a stellar event hosted by the growing town of Chitre.

6. There’s Usually An Indian Summer

A typical phenomenon in the month of July, this period is referred to by farmers as the “Veranillo de San Juan.” During Indian Summers, Panama gets a break from daily showers. A mini-summer, if you will…right in the midst of the “winter” or invierno. If you’re from North America, chances are this sunny period overlaps with your kids’ summer vacation. Coincidence? We think not!

7. Low Season Prices

Looking to save on your next Panama vacation? Here’s a little known secret: July is considered low season, because it falls after the May onset of “winter.” But remember, the weather in July is often summery. Bottom line, this means you can often enjoy fine weather at beach hotels in Panama City Panama…at lower prices than you would in the December-April high season! Yet another reason to spend your family vacation south of the border!

8. October is a Dry Month in Bocas del Toro

Those pesky world almanacs will tell you that October is typically the wettest month in Panama. And once again, the stats can be misleading. Panama is known for its micro-climates. So while one area is getting soggy, you can head to another…where the sun’s rays are the only things coming down from the sky. For example, October is typically one of the drier months in the islands of Bocas del Toro. You know, the archipelago that boats spectacular white sands and turquoise waters. Halloween party on the beach, anyone?

9. One Word Says It All

Oktoberfest (Latin Style): Forget flying all the way to Germany for a beer. Celebrate cerveza the way it was meant to be…served up ice-cold in the tropics! Did you know that Panama has a thriving foodie scene? It’s very diverse, and German restaurants like Rincon Aleman go all out in October. There are beer-inspired menus and happy hours with specially obtained brews. You can get your Wiener Schnitzel and party it up Panamanian style. Salud!

10. Fiestas Patrias Highlight Folklore and More

One of the coolest months in Panama, November is a time of celebration. There are five major holidays featuring parades, dances, marching bands and more. The events commemorate Panama’s independence from Spain in 1821 and separation from Colombia in 1903. Whether you're in the capital or the countryside, you’ll get a big dose of Panamanian culture in November.

And remember, there are no hurricanes in Panama, ever. So go ahead…schedule your visit for any time of year!