Weather in Panama City 🇵🇦
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
December
Avg Temp
29°C
Rain Days
17 days
Sun Hours
10 hrs
Humidity
82%
North America › 🇵🇦 Panama › Panama City
Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Panama City?
4/10
Fair
December is a fair time to visit Panama City (4/10). With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 17 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 5th sunniest of the year in Panama City. December suits travellers visiting for indoor culture, food, and architecture rather than outdoor activities. Pack accordingly for 17 potential rain days. November offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. Watch out for prolonged rain stretches: with 17 wet days, a fully outdoor itinerary is risky. Build in museum days and covered market visits as contingency. Planning tips: most accommodation categories have availability, and last-minute deals are common. The quieter streets and shorter queues can make this a genuinely enjoyable time to visit for the right type of traveller. Budget-conscious visitors will find the best value of the year in this period.
vs November:28°C avg high
Step off the plane in Panama City in December and the air meets you at around 29°C, carrying the kind of warmth that makes you reach for sunglasses before your bag is off the belt. By the time evening arrives and temperatures settle near 24°C, the city takes on a different character entirely. With 10 hours of daylight sun on offer, December gives you the raw material for a genuinely memorable trip.
29°C
84°F
Avg High
24°C
75°F
Avg Low
17 days
105 mm total
Rain Days
10h
per day avg
Sunshine
82%
Humid
Humidity
Temperature in Panama City in December
The narrow 5°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures, characteristic of coastal cities with maritime moderation, means a single mid-layer works across the whole day. At 82% humidity, the 29°C daytime high feels 2-4°C warmer in practice: quick-dry fabrics and shade-seeking between noon and 3pm are the sensible response. The UV index of 3 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 84°F average high, 75°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Panama City in December
Morning24°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon29°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening27°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Panama City in December means dressing for 29°C days and 24°C evenings. A lightweight linen or cotton shirt with loose-fit trousers or a sundress handles the 29°C daytime heat. Evening temperatures settle at 24°C, a modest 5°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. For footwear, breathable walking sandals work for casual exploration, but closed-toe trainers are better for uneven surfaces in the historic centre. With 17 rain days expected, a compact travel umbrella is worth the bag space. A waterproof jacket is better than an umbrella if you plan full-day outdoor routes. At 82% average humidity, quick-dry synthetic or bamboo fabrics dry overnight and stay comfortable longer than cotton.
Local tip: Panama City sees heavy rain periods where a compact travel umbrella can feel inadequate. A packable waterproof jacket offers better coverage for prolonged downpours and leaves both hands free for maps and cameras.
Events in Panama City in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Panama City, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Panama City in December
Based on 29°C average highs and 17 rainy days
- Light layers for morning and evening
- Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
- Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
- Compact folding umbrella
- Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Panama City in December
- Early morning walk through Panama City's historic market districtBest before 9amTemperatures are still manageable at 25°C before the midday heat builds
- Open-air rooftop dining at sunsetFrom 6pm onwardsThe 29°C daytime heat drops noticeably after sunset, making al fresco dining comfortable
- Waterfront promenade or harbour walkEarly morning or after 5pmSea breezes cut through the humidity, making coastal routes the most pleasant in heat
- Guided cycling tour of the old quarterFirst tour of the day (7-9am)The low-traffic window before tourist crowds and the cooler morning air make this the prime riding slot
- Spend a morning in the national or city art museumOpens at 10am; arrive earlyWith 17 rain days expected, having a full-day indoor plan is practical insurance
- Cooking class focused on regional cuisineHalf-day sessions run 10am-1pm or 3-6pmIndoor activity that fills a rainy half-day with genuine cultural content
- Visit covered historical sites: cathedral, palace, or bazaarAny time; most crowded middayRoofed monuments and covered markets provide exploration without weather exposure
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in December, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings
Why is Panama City warm in December?
In December, Panama City sits in the dry season corridor, as the ITCZ shifts away from the region and trade winds bring drier, more stable air. This produces reliably sunny days reaching 29°C, with lower humidity than the wet months. Overnight lows of 24°C offer a pleasant reprieve from the midday heat. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Panama City in December
In December, Panama City experiences average highs of 29°C (84°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F). Expect around 17 rainy days and 10 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 82%. The 5°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 3.
Panama City typically sees 17 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 105mm. This is a notably wet period. A waterproof jacket or compact umbrella is essential, and it is worth building indoor alternatives into your daily itinerary for the inevitable rainy stretches. For context, the driest month in Panama City typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton), a wide-brim sun hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle for Panama City in December. The 29°C daytime heat demands sun protection during midday hours, typically 11am to 4pm. A compact travel umbrella is also worth packing, as 17 rainy days means afternoon showers are a real possibility. Quick-dry synthetic fabrics are preferable to cotton in 82% humidity.
December is a reasonable time to visit Panama City. Expect 17 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 29°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 10 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Panama City in December is 29°C (84°F), and the average low is 24°C (75°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 27°C (80°F). The day-to-night range of 5°C is narrow, typical of coastal or maritime cities. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Panama City is generally January. January offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 5 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 29°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around January gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Panama City, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 17 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Panama City suits a range of activities thanks to warm temperatures of 29°C. With frequent rain, indoor activities and covered attractions are a smart choice. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 10 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
December ranks 5th sunniest of the year in Panama City, with an average 10 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are February, March, and January. March is the hottest month (31°C avg high); October is the coolest (28°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 28°C high, 27 rain days), December is warmer and drier. December sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Panama City, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 29°C | 24°C | 5 | 11h | View |
| February | 30°C | 24°C | 3 | 11h | View |
| March | 31°C | 24°C | 4 | 11h | View |
| April | 30°C | 25°C | 15 | 11h | View |
| May | 29°C | 25°C | 29 | 9h | View |
| June | 29°C | 24°C | 29 | 8h | View |
| July | 29°C | 24°C | 30 | 8h | View |
| August | 29°C | 24°C | 30 | 8h | View |
| September | 29°C | 24°C | 29 | 9h | View |
| October | 28°C | 24°C | 30 | 9h | View |
| November | 28°C | 24°C | 27 | 9h | View |
| December | 29°C | 24°C | 17 | 10h | View |
January
5 rain days, 11h sun
29°24°
February
3 rain days, 11h sun
30°24°
March
4 rain days, 11h sun
31°24°
April
15 rain days, 11h sun
30°25°
May
29 rain days, 9h sun
29°25°
June
29 rain days, 8h sun
29°24°
July
30 rain days, 8h sun
29°24°
August
30 rain days, 8h sun
29°24°
September
29 rain days, 9h sun
29°24°
October
30 rain days, 9h sun
28°24°
November
27 rain days, 9h sun
28°24°
December
17 rain days, 10h sun
29°24°
Other Months in Panama City
Plan Your Trip to Panama City
Data Sources for Panama City
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.