La Palma is not easy to reach, which is part of its appeal. From Panama City, the two options are a short flight and a long boat journey.
By air: Air Panama operates small-aircraft flights from Albrook (Marcos A. Gelabert) Airport in Panama City to La Palma's small airstrip. The flight takes about 45 minutes and runs several times a week. Book in advance — seats are limited. This is the recommended approach if you want to save time.
By road and boat: Take a bus from Panama City to Metetí on the Pan-American Highway (4–5 hours), then continue to La Palma (a further 2–3 hours) by a combination of road and water taxi. Boat schedules are irregular; ask locally in Metetí for current information. The journey is long but passes through interesting country.
From La Palma onwards: All onward travel into the Darién — to the national park, to indigenous villages, to the river communities — goes by boat. Arrange transport and guides in La Palma before departing.