Last updated: April 14, 2025
Panama's climate showcases remarkable variations, from its cooler temperatures in the mountainous regions to the sweltering heat of the lowlands. In Chiriquí, the temperature can dip to a refreshing 11°C (52°F) in February, while Veraguas can sizzle with maximums reaching 39°C (102°F) in April. The country experiences significant rainfall, with Los Santos receiving as little as 7 mm (0.3 in) in February, in stark contrast to the deluge of 568 mm (22.4 in) seen in Chiriquí during October. Humidity levels also fluctuate widely, registering an average minimum of 67% in March in Chiriquí, and peaking at a stifling 90% in June in Ngöbe-Buglé. This dynamic climate supports a diverse ecosystem and shapes the daily lives of Panamanians.
Panama’s climate is diverse, exhibiting a range of Köppen-Geiger climate classes across its regions. The lush provinces of Bocas del Toro, Chiriquí, and Los Santos enjoy the humid subtropical Af climate, characterized by rich biodiversity and ample rainfall. In contrast, Coclé and Darién feature both Am (monsoon) and Af climates, while Colón combines Am with a dry season, also classified as Aw. Emberá and Ngöbe-Buglé are celebrated for their persistent tropical conditions, primarily Af. The region of Guna Yala, meanwhile, has a unique blend of Aw and Am climates. Other areas, like Panamá and Veraguas, showcase a transition from Af to Am, offering a tapestry of weather patterns that significantly influence local ecosystems and lifestyles. Discover the specific climates of each area by exploring the linked climate pages for more detailed insights.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Af | Tropical rainforest climate with no dry season and high temperatures year-round. |
| Am | Tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall and high temperatures. |
| Aw | Tropical savanna climate with a dry season occurring in winter. |
Throughout the year, Panama exhibits a striking temperature range influenced by its diverse geography. In the cooler highlands of Chiriquí, temperatures dip to a brisk 11°C (53°F) in January and February, gradually rising to about 15°C (58°F) in August. Meanwhile, in the hotter lowland areas like Veraguas and Herrera, highs soar dramatically, peaking at 39°C (102°F) in April and sustaining warmth around 37°C (99°F) to 39°C (102°F) from February to April. As the year progresses into the rainy season, temperatures do cool slightly, but remain consistently warm, with averages lingering in the low to mid-30s °C (around 93-96°F). This blend of mild mountain air and sweltering lowland heat creates a unique climate tapestry that defines Panama’s weather patterns throughout the months.
Panama's precipitation patterns unveil a dramatic contrast across its regions and months. In February, Los Santos experiences the driest conditions with a mere 7 mm (0.3 in) of rainfall, and strikingly some days may see no precipitation at all. In contrast, October delivers a deluge in Chiriquí, where rainfall can peak at a staggering 568 mm (22.4 in), illustrating the intensity of the wet season. Furthermore, the month of July brings an astonishing 30 days of rain to Emberá, highlighting a significant shift in moisture levels during the year. These trends underscore the country's diverse climate, influenced by geography and seasonal changes, making it a fascinating study for meteorologists and travelers alike.
Panama experiences a significant range in humidity levels throughout the year, with a notable minimum of 67% in March in Chiriquí and a peak of 90% in June in Ngöbe-Buglé. This fluctuation highlights the tropical climate's influence, where the onset of the rainy season intensifies humidity, creating a muggy atmosphere in the summer months. While March offers a brief respite with relatively lower humidity, the transition into June signals a shift towards more oppressive conditions, affecting both the landscape and daily life across the region.
In April, Panama experiences significant UV Index levels, with the average daily maximum reaching a striking 15 in Colón and an even higher 16 in Chiriquí. This trend indicates that as the region transitions into the peak of the dry season, UV exposure intensifies, emphasizing the need for sun safety precautions. Residents and visitors alike should be particularly vigilant during this month, as the escalating UVI levels underscore the importance of protecting skin from harmful rays.
UV Risk Categories
Sunshine duration in Panama showcases some fascinating trends across various regions and months. For instance, Veraguas experiences a modest 212 hours of sunlight in August, making it one of the less bright months. In contrast, Guna Yala shines brightly in January with an impressive 260 hours, signaling the vibrant ecotourism opportunities during the dry season. Remarkably, March emerges as a standout month, particularly in Emberá and Los Santos, where sunshine peaks at 320 and 343 hours, respectively. This notable increase highlights March as an ideal time for outdoor adventures and exploration in these lush landscapes, as the sun casts its warm glow over the diverse beauty of Panama.
When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in Panama, a striking contrast emerges between the regions and seasons. In March, the coastal province of Chiriquí enjoys a robust 54% chance of sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration. In stark contrast, the interior region of Ngöbe-Buglé experiences a mere 4% likelihood of sunny days in August, highlighting the area's precipitation trends during that month. This disparity illustrates how weather patterns vary significantly across the country, offering unique experiences depending on the time and place of your visit.
In Panama, daylight hours exhibit a distinct variation across the year and regions. For instance, in December, residents of Bocas del Toro enjoy around 11 hours of daylight, creating a cozy ambiance during the festive season. Conversely, during the summer month of June, Colón basks in a generous 12 hours of sunlight, allowing for extended outdoor activities and explorations. This trend highlights how Panama's tropical climate not only influences daily life but also invites locals and visitors alike to relish the varying daylight experiences throughout the year.
Nestled in the heart of Panama, Bocas del Toro boasts a tropical climate that's both warm and inviting. With average temperatures hovering around 24°C (75°F) throughout the year, daily highs can reach a balmy 32°C (89°F) in the hotter months of April to October. While the region enjoys a vibrant atmosphere, it's also known for its significant rainfall, especially in May and October, with precipitation levels often exceeding 300 mm (12 inches). The humidity can be notably high during the rainy season, peaking in June and July, making the lush landscapes even more vibrant. For a deeper dive into this tropical paradise, check out the Bocas del Toro climate.
Nestled in the vibrant landscapes of Panama, Chiriquí boasts a climate that is as diverse as its natural beauty. With temperatures ranging from a cool 11°C (53°F) in January to a sizzling 36°C (97°F) in April, it offers a warm tropical experience year-round. However, visitors should be prepared for significant rainfall, especially during the lush months of May and October, when precipitation can soar over 400 mm. The average humidity hovers around 70%, creating a pleasantly warm atmosphere ideal for exploring the region's stunning scenery. For more detailed information and seasonal insights, check out Chiriquí climate.
Coclé, Panama, boasts a tropical climate marked by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. With average highs reaching up to 37°C (99°F) in April and consistent humidity hovering around 70-90%, it offers a lush and vibrant environment. The wettest months, from May to October, see heavy precipitation often exceeding 300 mm monthly, making this a truly rain-soaked region. Visitors can expect a relatively mild dry season from January to March, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 36°C (97°F). To learn more about the nuances of this enchanting climate, explore Coclé climate.
Colón, Panama, boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with average highs hovering around 26°C (79°F) to 33°C (91°F). January kicks off the year with pleasant temperatures, but the heat peaks from April to July, where it can soar above 33°C (92°F), perfect for sun-seekers. However, be prepared for the rainy season, especially from May to October, when precipitation can reach up to 370 mm (14.6 in), contributing to high humidity levels that climb above 80%. Despite the occasional downpour, the lush, vibrant landscape remains inviting, making Colón an alluring destination year-round. Discover more about the region's weather in our detailed guide on Colón climate.
Nestled in a vibrant tropical landscape, Darién, Panama experiences warm temperatures year-round, with averages hovering around 26°C (80°F). January and February offer slightly cooler nights with lows of 19°C (67°F), but as the year progresses, temperatures can peak at a sizzling 36°C (97°F) in the hotter months of March and April. Rainfall is abundant, particularly from May to July, where precipitation can soar to over 300 mm, resulting in a lush, green environment. The region's high humidity, often reaching up to 88% in June, contributes to its dense rainforest and rich biodiversity. For a more detailed overview, explore the Darién climate.
Nestled in the heart of Panama, Emberá boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and substantial rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature hovers around 26°C (79°F), providing a comfortable backdrop for exploring lush landscapes. Visitors can expect the wettest months from May to August, with precipitation peaking at 408 mm (16.1 in) in July, contributing to the region's vibrant ecosystems. Despite the humidity reaching up to 87% in June, the enchanting beauty of Emberá remains alluring year-round. For a detailed look at the weather, check out the Emberá climate.
Guna Yala, Panama, boasts a warm tropical climate, with temperatures consistently ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 32°C (89°F) throughout the year. Visitors can expect a delightful average of 27°C (81°F), particularly from January to December, while the highest temperatures occur in April and June. The region experiences its heaviest rainfall between May and July, with precipitation peaking at 232 mm (9.1 in) in July, making it the wettest month. Humidity remains high, typically above 70%, promoting a lush, vibrant ecosystem. For more detailed information, check out Guna Yala climate.
In Herrera, Panama, the climate is characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall, making it a lush, vibrant destination year-round. During the dry season from January to February, temperatures range from a comfortable 17°C (63°F) to a sizzling 36°C (97°F), but humidity remains high at around 75-76%. As the wet season approaches in April, rainfall spikes dramatically, especially in May, where monthly totals soar to 355 mm (14.0 in), contributing to the region's rich biodiversity. Expect consistent warmth, averaging about 26°C (79°F), with cooler nights amidst this tropical paradise. For more details on weather patterns, explore the full Herrera climate.
Nestled in a tropical paradise, Los Santos, Panama enjoys a warm climate year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from a comfortable 18°C (65°F) in January to a sizzling 37°C (99°F) in May. Humidity levels hover around 75% to 83%, creating a lush environment that flourishes amid seasonal rains. While the dry months of February and March offer respite with minimal precipitation, the wet season from April to October can unleash heavy rainfall, peaking in July with 416 mm (16.4 in). For those seeking a vibrant, tropical experience, the climate in Los Santos provides an inviting backdrop for adventure and relaxation alike. Discover more about the weather patterns by visiting Los Santos climate.
The climate in Ngöbe-Buglé, Panama, is characterized by warm temperatures and significant precipitation throughout the year. With January's average at a comfortable 23°C (74°F) and peaks reaching up to 36°C (98°F) in April, visitors can expect pleasant conditions. However, the region experiences its wettest months from May to October, with rainfall averaging over 400 mm in May, creating a lush, vibrant landscape. Humidity levels persistently hover around 70-90%, particularly during the rainy season, contributing to the area's rich biodiversity. Discover more about this unique climate by visiting Ngöbe-Buglé climate.
Panamá enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Daily highs generally hover between 32°C (89°F) and 34°C (93°F), while nighttime lows range from 20°C (68°F) to 22°C (71°F). The wettest months, from May to October, see heavy precipitation, with June recording nearly 302 mm (11.9 in) of rain, while humidity levels can soar to 89% during this period. In contrast, from December to February, the weather is slightly drier, making it a more comfortable time to explore. For a detailed look at weather patterns and seasonal variations, visit Panamá climate.
Panamá Oeste boasts a tropical climate that offers warmth and humidity year-round. With average temperatures ranging from a comfortable 26°C (79°F) to a peak of 34°C (93°F) in April, the region enjoys balmy conditions ideal for outdoor adventures. Precipitation varies notably, with May and June seeing the heaviest rainfall, reaching up to 295 mm (11.6 in). Humidity levels peak in the summer months, often hovering around 89%, enhancing the lush vegetation and vibrant ecosystems. For a detailed overview of the weather patterns throughout the year, check out the Panamá Oeste climate.
Nestled in the heart of Panama, Veraguas boasts a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from a comfortable 18°C (64°F) to a sizzling 39°C (102°F), creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Precipitation peaks during the lush months of May to October, where it can exceed 400 mm (16 in) in October alone, contributing to the region's vibrant ecosystems. With humidity levels often hovering around 75%, residents and visitors alike can expect a humid tropical experience year-round. For more detailed insights, explore the full Veraguas climate.
The climate of Panama is characterized by notable extremes and variability, showcasing a diverse range of temperatures and precipitation patterns across the country. For instance, temperatures can dip as low as 11°C (52°F) in February in Chiriquí, while soaring to 39°C (102°F) in April in Veraguas. The wet season brings intense rainfall, with October seeing a staggering maximum of 568 mm (22.4 in) in Chiriquí, contrasting sharply with February's driest months that record only 7 mm (0.3 in) in Los Santos. Humidity levels also fluctuate significantly, ranging from an average low of 67% in March in Chiriquí to a peak of 90% in June in Ngöbe-Buglé. Together, these trends underscore Panama's dynamic climate, which is crucial for its rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems.