Panama City’s best workshops let you experience local culture hands-on, without the tourist traps. The city’s standout classes include chocolate-making demonstrations, traditional cooking lessons (which smartly include unlimited mojitos), and food tours through local markets. We especially love the intimate salsa classes in Casco Viejo – they’re well-paced for beginners and taught by patient instructors who know their stuff.
Cooking workshops are particularly worthwhile, teaching authentic techniques while keeping things fun and casual. The market tours are also excellent, showing you where locals actually shop and eat.
Browse our favorite workshops and classes to find the perfect fit for your Panama City visit.
Key Points
- Nomé Chocolate’s seasonal chocolate-making and tasting class offers a hands-on experience with drink pairings and cultural insights.
- Boozy Panamanian cooking class with a small group, featuring traditional recipes, bottomless mojitos, and diverse menu options.
- Guided cooking class and market experience explores local cuisine, including ceviche, carimañola, and tamales, with vegetarian and vegan options.
- Salsa Safari Studio offers small-group salsa classes with personalized instruction for beginners, as well as other Latin dance styles.
- Panama Foodie Walk & Mojito Class provides a 3.5-hour culinary tour with tasty snacks, refreshing mojitos, and a personalized experience.
Class for Chocolate Making and Tasting in Panama
The “Class for Chocolate Making and Tasting in Panama” at Nomé Chocolate offers an engaging and hands-on experience for chocolate enthusiasts.
Located in the heart of Panama City, next to the Hotel La Compañía and Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica, the class has earned 198 reviews with a 93% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
Participants will enjoy seasonal chocolates, a drink pairing, and the opportunity to pour melted chocolate into molds and add toppings.
The private tour lasts for a flexible duration, accommodating wheelchairs and strollers.
Priced at €43.30 per person with free cancellation, the class provides an immersive look into the cultural and historical aspects of Panamanian chocolate.
Read our full review: Class for Chocolate Making and Tasting in Panama Review
Book now: Check availability
10-Recipe Boozy Panamanian Cooking Class
Located in the heart of Panama City, the Recipe Boozy Panamanian Cooking Class promises an immersive culinary experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Panamanian cuisine with the playful touch of boozy cocktails.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the class offers a hands-on opportunity to learn traditional Panamanian recipes, from the zesty pico de gallo to the comforting arroz con pollo.
Guided by renowned chefs Winnie and Tanya, participants can expect an engaging and informative session, complete with bottomless mojitos and a delightful array of starters, mains, and desserts.
While a few reviews mention concerns about cleanliness and portion sizes, the class boasts an impressive 4.9-star rating and 99% recommendation from travelers.
Read our full review: 10-Recipe Boozy Panamanian Cooking Class Review
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4-Hour Guided Panamanian Cooking Class and Markets Experience
Enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of Panama with this 4-hour guided Panamanian cooking class and markets experience.
Operated by Panama Day Trips, this highly-rated class allows you to explore local markets, learn from an engaging chef, and prepare a delicious multi-course meal.
You’ll start with a Panamanian-style ceviche and carimañola before moving on to stewed chicken, tamales, and a sweet plantain dessert.
With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, this class caters to diverse dietary needs.
Complement your meal with complimentary alcoholic beverages as you enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Guided Panamanian Cooking Class and Markets Experience Review
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1 Salsa Class in Casco Viejo – Dont Just See Panama… Feel It!
Conveniently located in the heart of Casco Viejo, the Salsa Safari Studio offers a captivating one-hour salsa class that allows you to truly experience the vibrant culture of Panama.
With a 4.9/5 rating and 99% traveler recommendation, this small-group class caters to beginners and solo dancers, providing personalized instruction from a seasoned dance team.
Enjoy the rhythm of Latin American music as you learn the basics of salsa, with the option to explore additional styles like bachata, merengue, or cha cha cha.
Priced from $30 per person, this inclusive experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Panamanian nightlife.
Read our full review: #1 Salsa Class in Casco Viejo – Dont Just See Panama… Feel It! Review
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Salsa Classes in Panama City
Salsa classes in Panama City offer visitors and residents alike the opportunity to learn the vibrant dance form and enjoy the city’s lively Latin culture.
Located in the heart of Panama City, the classes at Anixon García Academy provide private lessons tailored to individual skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers.
Participants can expect personalized attention, bottled water for hydration, and a fun experience whether they’re learning solo or with a partner.
With classes available seven days a week from 6 AM to 8 PM, there’s plenty of flexibility to find a convenient time.
Priced from $76.93 per person, these salsa lessons are an excellent way to get a taste of Panama’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Salsa Classes in Panama City Review
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Panama Foodie Walk & Mojito Class
The Panama Foodie Walk & Mojito Class takes participants on a delightful culinary tour through the heart of Panama City.
This 3.5-hour experience begins at the Tántalo Hotel, where travelers can expect an array of tasty snacks and refreshing mojitos.
With a maximum of 4 participants, the small group ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
The knowledgeable guide, praised for their friendliness and expertise, leads the way through the city’s vibrant food scene, highlighting local murals and architecturally stunning sights.
Travelers rave about the amazing food and drinks, as well as the picturesque ambiance.
Whether a foodie or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour is highly recommended for its quality and value.
Read our full review: Panama Foodie Walk & Mojito Class Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Panama City offers a vibrant culinary scene with a range of immersive workshops and classes. From hands-on chocolate-making to lively salsa lessons, there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, these classes provide an engaging way to dive into Panama’s diverse flavors and traditions. With expert instruction and interactive experiences, you’ll leave with newfound skills and a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich gastronomic heritage.