How to Get to Guanico: Your Complete Travel Guide to Panama's Hidden Surf Paradise
- Margaux
- Jun 28
- 4 min read
Discover the best ways to reach Guanico and Playa Guanico from Panama City. From scenic road trips to convenient flights, find your perfect route to this untouched surf destination on Panama's Pacific coast.
Nestled along Panama's Pacific coastline, Guanico remains one of Central America's best-kept secrets. This tranquil fishing village near the world-class surf break of Playa Guanico offers an authentic escape from the crowds, where pristine waves meet untouched nature. But getting to this hidden gem requires some planning—and that's where we come in.
Whether you're traveling solo with a quiver of surfboards or bringing the whole family for a Panama beach vacation, we've compiled every transportation option to help you reach La Chantin and experience the magic of Guanico.
The Scenic Route: Driving to Guanico from Panama City
Best for: Surfers with gear, families, and adventure seekers who love road trips.
The drive from Panama City to Guanico is more than just transportation—it's a journey through Panama's diverse landscapes. Your route takes you from bustling urban centers through rolling hills and into the heart of the Azuero Peninsula.
The Route: Panama City → Divisa → Las Tablas → Tonosí → Guanico Abajo
Distance: Approximately 360 kilometers (224 miles) Drive Time: 5.5 to 6 hours
Pro Tips for the Drive:
From Las Tablas to Tonosí, take the scenic route via Cacao and La Miel. This road offers smoother pavement and stunning jungle vistas that make the extra miles worthwhile.
Download offline maps before departing—cell coverage becomes spotty as you approach Tonosí.
Start early to arrive with plenty of daylight for the final stretch to Guanico.
The freedom of having your own vehicle means you can explore hidden beaches, stop at local sodas (restaurants), and carry all your surf gear without restrictions.
Budget-Friendly Bus Travel to Guanico
Best for: Budget travelers and those seeking an authentic local experience.
Taking public transportation to Guanico offers an affordable way to travel while experiencing Panama like a local. The journey requires some patience and planning, but the savings are significant.
Step 1: Panama City to Las Tablas
Buses depart from Albrook Terminal every two hours until 7 PM. The 4-hour journey costs approximately $10 and takes you through Panama's interior countryside.
Step 2: Las Tablas to Guanico
A local bus makes the daily run at 12:30 PM for just $5. Important note: no bus service on Sundays.
Alternative: Las Tablas to Tonosí, then Taxi
If you miss the direct bus to Guanico, you can travel to Tonosí and catch a taxi for the final stretch (approximately $15).
Convenient Taxi and Transfer Services
Best for: Groups, travelers with time constraints, or those prioritizing comfort.
Sometimes the most straightforward route is the best route. Our taxi and transfer services eliminate the guesswork and get you to La Chantin efficiently.
Local Taxi Options:
Tonosí to Guanico: $15
Las Tablas to Guanico (via our Taxi partner): Flat rate $50
Panama city to Guanico: Flat rate $270
These transfers are particularly valuable when bus schedules don't align with your travel plans or when traveling with a group where the per-person cost becomes reasonable.
Shuttle Services via Playa Venao
Best for: Comfortable travel without driving, meeting other travelers.
Both MyPinkBus and BeachBreak Shuttle offer daily shared rides from Panama City to Playa Venao, located about 45 minutes south of Guanico.
MyPinkBus Details:
Departure: Approximately 8 AM
Amenities: Water, Wi-Fi, power outlets
Cost: Around $60 per person
BeachBreak Shuttle:
Departure: Approximately 9 AM from Coco Loco hostel
Cost: $50 per person
From Venao, arrange a local taxi or contact us for a transfer to La Chantin (typically $20-30).
Fly to Paradise: Domestic Flights to the Azuero Peninsula
Best for: Time-conscious travelers, special occasions, or those wanting to maximize beach time
Skip the long drive and arrive at your surf destination in under an hour with domestic flights to either Chitré or Pedasí.
Panama City to Chitré (CTD)
Air Panama operates approximately 5 direct flights weekly from Albrook or Pacífico airports.
Flight time: 30 minutes
One-way fares: $100-110
Ground transfer to Guanico: Approximately 2 hours, private taxi or bus.
Panama City to Pedasí (PDM)
Flytrip operates 7 flights per week to this closer airport.
Flight time: 40 minutes
One-way fares: $129-153
Ground transfer to Guanico: 30-40 minutes, private taxi $40-60
Flying to Pedasí puts you closest to Guanico, making it the premium option for those who value time over budget.
The Hybrid Approach: Shuttle Plus Local Transport
Best for: Travelers wanting comfort without the full cost of private transfers.
Combine the comfort of shuttle services with local transportation for a balanced approach:
Take a shared shuttle to Playa Venao ($50-60 per person)
Arrange a local taxi from Venao to Guanico (~$20)
Total cost: $70-80 per person with no driving required.
Choosing Your Perfect Route to Guanico
Transportation Method | Pros | Cons | Best For |
Rental Car | Complete flexibility, carry surf gear | Long drive, remote roads | Surfers, families, adventurers |
Public Bus | Most affordable (~$15-16 total) | Long journey, limited schedule | Budget travelers |
Taxi/Transfer Service | Door-to-door convenience | Higher cost | Groups, time-conscious travelers |
Shuttle + Taxi | Comfortable, no driving stress | Moderate cost, still 6+ hours | Balanced comfort/cost |
Flight + Ground Transfer | Fastest option | Most expensive, weather dependent | Premium travelers, special trips |
Arriving at La Chantin: Your Gateway to Guanico
Once you reach Guanico Abajo, follow the signs to La Chantin. We'll send you a GPS pin after your booking confirmation. Our location offers the perfect balance—just a 10-minute walk or 3-minute drive from Playa Guanico's world-class waves, yet nestled in lush surroundings that provide the ultimate escape from everyday life.
Planning Your Journey: We're Here to Help
Every traveler's needs are different, and we understand that getting to Guanico might seem daunting at first. That's why our team is ready to help you choose the best transportation option for your specific situation.
Get in touch with us:
Email: margaux.borderieux@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +507 6174-5911 for the fastest responses
When you contact us, let us know:
Your travel dates and group size
Any special equipment (surfboards, bikes, etc.)
Your budget and time preferences
Whether you're a first-time visitor to Panama
We'll provide personalized recommendations to ensure your journey to this Pacific coast paradise is as smooth as the waves you'll soon be riding.
Ready to discover why Guanico is Panama's best-kept surfing secret? Start planning your trip today and experience the untouched beauty of the Azuero Peninsula.
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