When is whale season in Panama?
On the Pacific coast, humpback whales are seen from July to October, and August and September are usually the best months. Panama is one of the few places in the world where humpbacks from both hemispheres arrive: the whales you see in these months come from the Southern Hemisphere, after feeding in cold southern waters.
Where to see whales in Panama
Humpbacks visit many parts of Panama's Pacific coast, including the Pearl Islands near Panama City, the Azuero Peninsula, the coast of Veraguas and the Gulf of Chiriquí, where Coiba National Park is located. From Santa Catalina you can look for them on the way to Coiba and combine the whales with a snorkeling day.
What you might see
Mothers with their calves, spouts, tail slaps and, on a lucky day, a full breach. You may also see dolphins on the way.
Whale-watching trips from Santa Catalina
- Whales + Coiba, shared boat: $75 per person, plus the park entrance. The full Coiba Island Tour with time for the whales on the way.
- Private boat, whales only: $700 per boat for 1 to 6 people, $800 for 7 to 10. No park entrance, because you don't land in the national park.
- Private boat, whales + Coiba: the same boat price, plus the park entrance per person.
See all the details on our whale-watching tour page.
Responsible whale watching
Panama's whale-watching guidelines ask boats to keep at least 250 meters from the whales and to stay no longer than 30 minutes with a group, or 15 minutes if there is a calf. We follow these rules: the whales' wellbeing comes first. They are wild animals, so sightings can't be guaranteed.
Tips
- Bring sunglasses, a hat and a camera with zoom.
- If you get seasick, take your usual remedy before the boat ride.
- Book ahead in August and September, the busiest whale months.
Ready to see Coiba?
Tell us your date and how many people are coming. We confirm availability and the price on WhatsApp.
