How do Panama’s hot lowlands differ from its temperate mountain zone?

Panama’s climate is defined by its elevation, which creates distinct zones that influence both temperature and agricultural production.1

The country is divided into three primary climatic zones based on altitude:1

• Hot Lowlands: Located at elevations below 2,300 feet (700 meters), this zone covers nearly nine-tenths of the country’s territory. It is characterized by high temperatures, with the mean temperature of the coldest month rarely dropping below 78 °F (26 °C). This region is primarily used for the production of crops such as cacao and bananas.1
• Temperate Mountain Zone: Situated at elevations between 2,300 and 4,900 feet (700 to 1,500 meters), this zone accounts for most of the remaining land. Due to the higher elevation, this area experiences cooler temperatures compared to the lowlands and is the primary region for coffee cultivation.1

Beyond these vertical zones, Panama’s climate is further influenced by its geography, with significant variations in rainfall between the Caribbean and Pacific slopes of the Tabasar\u00e1 Mountains.1