Volunteer Programs in Panama

Panama is a very small country and nearly half of the population lives in the metropolitan area of Panama City. Sitting at the Pacific port of the Panama Canal and surrounded by dense swathes of rainforest all around, the city has had a long history of central influence in Latin America and today is Panama’s political, commercial, and cultural capital. Because of its importance as a major port, those who volunteer in Panama City can enjoy a thriving international life as the city is filled with inhabitants from all over the world.

San Miguelito is Panama’s only other major city, with around 300,00 inhabitants living in the urban area. Many volunteer placements in San Miguelito will place volunteers in small villages or provinces in rural areas. Panama’s landscape is dominated by dense jungles, beautiful beaches, and the Cordillera de Talamanca Mountain range which marks the continental divide. Temperatures remain steadily uniform through the year, defined by a tropical climate of heat, humidity, and abundant rainfall. Be prepared to sweat!