What December feels like in Panama City
December sits between Panama City's dry and wet seasons. Afternoons are hot, so sightseeing works best in the morning or evening. Little changes after sunset — nights stay warm, only slightly below the daytime level. The air is muggy, so it feels hotter than the thermometer suggests.
Rain in Panama City in December
Rain is part of normal life this month, falling on most days. A rainy day brings about 6.1 mm (0.2 in) on average — steady rain rather than a passing shower. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 8.5 mm per rainy day.
How December compares to the rest of the year
Ranked by average high, December comes out as the 6th warmest month in Panama City. Against November, the average high is 0.9°C (1.6°F) higher, with 178 mm less rain. The warm-up continues into January. January averages a high of 29.9°C (85.8°F).
Who December suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — rain falls on more than half the days.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — afternoons are too warm to linger outside.
- Museums & indoor: a good choice — with rain on most days, galleries and museums make easy plans.
Tips for visiting Panama City in December
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Sun Protection
Loose, breathable clothing plus sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Panama City in December?
Expect around 29.2°C (84.6°F) in the afternoon and 24°C (75.2°F) at night, which most visitors would call hot.
Does it rain a lot in Panama City in December?
Yes, fairly — rain falls most days and totals about 117 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Panama City in December?
The numbers point to rain protection and sun protection. There is little need to change for the evening.
Is December or January better for visiting Panama City?
On our 12-month climate ranking, January comes out ahead (#3 of 12 vs #5). January has fewer rainy days.
