Let me start by saying we do food tours in most every country we visit and we have done a lot of food tours! This one ranks right at the top. The two markets were incredible but the knowledge that was shared was the best part. We were told all about the different fish, fruits, vegetables, juices, hot sauces, candies, coffee and so much more. How they were grown, harvested and used in day to day cooking. This was an amazing tour. Love and passion for the country and the food. We were on a long layover at the airport and booked this tour but when we are back again in December I will book another tour because this was awesome.
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WanderingAB
August 17, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Fantastic Fish, Fruit, and other Foods (and fun)
We had a great time with Elena learning all about the history of Panama City and its food. She showed us the fish, fruits, and everyday foods that Panamanians enjoy, and she told us the stories behind all of them. It was a rainy day, but it actually worked out great because we were indoors for the rainy part. Elena had umbrellas for the rain and fans for the heat. She really thought of everything. After our bellies were full, she gave us a great guide to other places we can enjoy while we were in the city — but we will definitely be back for more ceviche! I've done food tours in Philadelphia, New York, Paris, Charleston, and this was up there with the best of them...but for a fraction of the price. I would totally recommend this tour and any of Elena's tours because she knows the city and the people. This was a highlight of our trip!
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franbote
August 15, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Excellent Panamanian food tour of the markets
Elena was an excellent guide sharing the many Panamanian foods and drinks including coffee with me at the fish market and San Felipe market. It was good to be better acquainted with all the exotic foods. Food tasting was fun and lunch provided at the end.
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W6172LRalexb
August 13, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Great time in Panama.
The guid was great and friendly, she guided me to a place to get dolls for my kids, and the food was great.
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anthonyeN1443UV
August 7, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Great experience
Love the Olivares ceviche. Fresh seafood, delicious!
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greenstonen
July 17, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Awesome food tour!!
Elena was a fantastic guide. She is passionate about food and her love of the culture shines through. She was knowledgeable, fun and has great relationships throughout the marketplace that made the tour feel intimate and like we were insiders. The food we got to try was plentiful, delicious and included a great variety. She gave us the confidence to be able to navigate the markets without her when we inevitably return. 10 out of 10 and I will recommend it to everyone I know who is visiting Panama.
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avinandr
July 14, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Must do tour.
The host contacted us when our initially booked date was not possible because of matket closure. They accomodated us at our only available time.
Meeting Maria was easy. She took us around all the fish market stalls and explained all that were there. She even pointed out the differences between pacific and atlantic varieties. She really knows her stuff. The prices were cheap and she took us to the best spot to get the best chiveche.
At the food market we tasted fruits, hot sauces, fruit blends, and we even had a coffee experience. We bought loads of stuff because they were so fresh and tasty. And the markets are so clean and cool.
As we were walking to the meat section, she introduced us to Jamaican patties and gave us the rundown of how thkse ended up in Panama. I won't spoil it for you.
The meat market was so clean and everythjng was fresh and well prepared.
Next it was onto the food stalls. She took us to two food stalls that cooked loads of various dishes with the fish and meats. There were also vegetarian options too.
Another great thing was the markets were not crowded. So we got to take our time.
It was good to hear that a meal was included as part of tbe tour. We devoured them.
All in all, Maria knows her stuff. Plus she has great apartments via AirBnB.
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Carma_V
July 4, 2026 · via Viator
Fantastic tasting tour of the Panamanian markets!
We had a fantastic experience touring the markets with Elena and Jonathan! Elena is an outstanding and knowledgable guide, with a fun personality. We enjoyed tastings of delicious ceviche, fresh squeezed juices, world-famous Panamanian coffee, and a variety of local hot sauces. We ended the tour with a delicious and authentic lunch in the market food stalls. I highly recommend this fun and engaging experience for visitors to Panama City!
