by Panama BlogLast updated:: 9:00 PM ET, Thu July 13, 2023 The whale-watching season has started in Panama. The yearly migration happens during the breading and mating seasons. Right now, whales are returning to the waters of Panama from July to October, migrating from the south to the north to have their calves while transiting through Panama’s Pacific waters.
The country takes conservation seriously and, therefore, visitors can be sure that they are experiencing this bucket-list moment while supporting sustainable and educational opportunities as well as following Panama's strict guidelines centered around protecting these gentle giants. Only two boats at a time are allowed to follow a pod of whales while also maintaining a distance of at least 820 feet.
Visitors will be thrilled by what they do see while whale-watching in Panama. The humpbacks are known for putting on quite a show when they return each year, breeching and launching their entire bodies out of the water.
While the season for seeing whales begins in late June/early July, September is prime time to see the whales. some of the best local spots include Taboga Island and the Pearl Islands, both in the Gulf of Panamá, closer to Panama City. Visitors can also spy these magnificent creatures in the Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge in Pedasí in the Los Santos Province, the Gulf of Chiriqui near and around Boca Chica, and Coiba National Park, one of the 50 UNESCO Marine World Heritage Sites.
Book a tour to see the whales in Panama now!
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