Attracting vacationers and backpackers alike, this Central American nation boasts a relaxed vibe and beautiful locations. From surf resorts and idyllic islands to serene mountain hideaways and prime diving spots, listed here are the locations on this extraordinary nation I wish to share with you…
1. San Blas Islands
The gorgeous islands of the San Blas archipelago stretch alongside the Caribbean coast of Panama from San Blas Bay to the Colombian border. Many backpackers love this spot and journey right here earlier than or after exploring Costa Rica.
Go to San Blas islands, and you’ll journey 20 centuries again into the previous to find conventional Indian crafts, hear fascinating legends, and familiarize your self with Indian music and dances; it’s a gem!
The economic system of the islands relies on coconut cultivation and tourism. My private favourite islands included Achutupu which was full of a wealthy Guna tradition, the much less commercialized Kagantupu, and Coco Blanco which was my favourite island for snorkeling.
Location: off the northern coast of the nation within the Guna Yala area.
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: January to April (the dry season)
My favourite highlights…
Spending an evening in an Instagram-worthy over-water cabin which was an unbelievable expertise!
Taking a ship tour with San Blas Adventures which took us round a number of islands.
Going snorkeling and seeing the beautiful coral reefs and colourful marine life.
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2. Panama Canal
The monumental Canal is among the trendy world wonders. The Panama Canal is 82 kilometers lengthy and connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Greater than 12,000 ocean-bound vessels move by its lock system yearly. The Canal’s thread stretches throughout a collection of historic lakes and marshes, and its banks are adorned with a large strip of virgin forests.
In my view, the perfect place to look at ships is positioned northeast of Panama Metropolis, close to the partitions of the large seven-hundred-ton sluice gate Miraflores.
Location: runs from Colón to Panama Metropolis
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: all 12 months spherical
My private highlights…
Exploring the Miraflores Customer Middle, a four-story interactive museum and studying concerning the canal’s historical past.
Capturing an Instagram-worthy shot overlooking the canal.
Seeing the canal locks working!
3. Playa Venao
The Azuero Peninsula is thought for its beautiful seashores and is most well-known is the favored seashore resort of Playa Venao, which is 35 km from Pedasi.
I used to be a giant fan of this dreamy, laid again gem the place we stayed for every week and didn’t get bored! It actually was a stunning tropical paradise.
Water sports activities lovers worldwide rush to Playa Venao to hone and exhibit their browsing expertise and its additionally a terrific diving spot too as its residence to beautiful coral reefs, tropical fish and even close by ship wrecks. The shore is dotted with diving colleges the place we may simply hire gear and take classes from skilled instructors.
I like to recommend simply kicking again, sunbathing on the lengthy, extensive sandy seashore, taking a swim within the heat sea, eating at one of many many funky seashore eating places (many had DJs), or simply sipping on a signature cocktail at one of many open-air bars and gazing on the waves like we did!
Location: southern coast on the Azuero Peninsula
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: finish of December to center April (the dry season)
My highlights…
Taking newbie surf classes with Seaside Break Surf Camp.
Having fun with cocktails and searching on the sundown at Selina’s Seaside Bar (there are additionally some energetic seashore events after darkish).
Enjoyable with a rejuvenating therapeutic massage on the Nourish Spa.
4. Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is a series of islands within the mouth of the Chiriqui lagoon within the nation’s northeast. The archipelago consists of 9 comparatively massive islands, 52 small islands, and greater than 200 islets. It is usually a backpacking and vacationer magnificence spot.
Boasting inexperienced palm forests, an enormous shoreline of white sand, and crystal clear water, Bocas del Toro is one in all Panama’s most well-known vacationer areas, and for good motive: it’s critically beautiful! Pristine landscapes are interspersed with trendy resorts.
Followers of scuba diving and sea fishing flock to the islands all 12 months spherical to see a few of the finest coral reefs on the planet, a lot liked for his or her distinctive underwater gardens.
The snorkeling right here can also be elegant and might simply spot stingrays, crabs, and many sorts of colourful tropical fish species.
Location: northwest, close to the border with Costa Rica
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: February and March (the driest months)
My private highlights…
Renting an E-bike (from Flying Pirates Bocas) and using round Bocas City then heading to the beautiful Playa Bluff seashore.
Strolling alongside the breathtaking white sand seashores and photographing the spectacular sea views.
Watching the skilled surfers journey the unbelievable waves.
5. Casco Viejo
The engaging space of Casco Viejo sits east of Panama Metropolis, the nation’s capital and I liked this place! That is the very first settlement constructed by Europeans on the Pacific coast. It was based in 1519 and shortly turned probably the most necessary buying and selling facilities on the continent.
The transit route from Peru to the Outdated World, carrying the Incas’ gold and silver, ran by the city. In 1671, a pirate raid led by Henry Morgan nearly razed Panama Viejo, abandoning numerous ruins.
Nevertheless, a few of the buildings survived till at the present time, particularly, the sq. tower of the Cathedral de Panama Viejo, ruins of Santo Domingo and San Francisco convents, the well-preserved La Merced church and San José temple, the King’s Bridge, in addition to remnants of the partitions that served as safety in opposition to pirates.
On the finish of the previous century, the outdated quarters of Panama Viejo have been acknowledged as UNESCO World Heritage websites.
Location: Panama Metropolis
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)
My private highlights…
Sipping on a cup of espresso created from the well-known geisha beans, which have been regionally grown.
Wandering to the Plaza Francia and photographing the skylines of the town.
Searching for the colourful handmade conventional crafts.
6. El Valle de Antón
El Valle de Anton is a city and eponymous nature reserve settled within the crater of a long-extinct volcano that rises to 600 m above sea stage and has a diameter of just about 5 km.
The reserve is valued for its distinctive moist mountain forest ecosystem, and for my part, it’s value visiting. The jungle is carved by vacationer routes main from one attraction to a different. The spellbinding waterfalls Chorro de Las Mozas and Chorro El Macho are the highlights of El Valle de Anton.
The encircling forests are steeped in orchids and the nationwide flower of Panama, Flor del Espiritu Santo (The flower of the Holy Spirit). The ample foliage conceals Rana Dorada, a uncommon frog with an amusing look.
Because of its volcanic origin, this place has preserved some traces of geothermal exercise, boiling thermal springs, and therapeutic mud swimming pools that includes a singular mineral composition.
Location: centre of the nation, Coclé Province.
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)
My highlights…
Having fun with a dawn hike by way of the scenic Sleeping Indian Path.
Crossing the excessive suspension bridge by the rainforest and reaching the beautiful El Macho Waterfall.
Visiting the colourful farmer’s market (which was open seven days every week) and sampling native meals and produce, such because the tasty deep-fried skinny plantains.
7. Pearl Islands
The Pearl Islands lie 40 miles southeast of Panama Metropolis within the Gulf of Panama. Comprised of 97 islands, the archipelago turned identified to Europeans in 1513 when an Indian chief revealed a secret concerning the mysterious islands adorned with pearls.
Since then, pearl mining has grow to be the main commerce on the islands. Nonetheless, the archipelago turned one of many favorite vacation locations for the nice and the great (former US President Jimmy Carter, Spanish Prime Minister Adolfo Suarez Gonzalez, and the Shah of Iran stayed right here), and I used to be a giant fan, too!
The Pearl Islands have 83 wonderful seashores, quite a few pretty motels and visitor homes, and probably the most engaging snorkeling spots.
Location:off the Pacific coast within the south
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)
My private highlights…
Kayaking on the pristine waters, which took me previous beautiful surroundings.
Enjoyable on the beautiful Isla Saboga which provided a stunning restaurant and nice snorkelling.
Exploring the luxurious jungles on foot with a neighborhood information.
8. Gulf of Chiriquí
Based in 1994, the Gulf of Chiriquí Nationwide Marine Park is positioned on the Pacific coast of Panama within the bay of the identical identify.
The park is unfold throughout 25 volcanic islands coated with pristine tropical forest. The tranquil waters across the islands are thought-about the perfect diving place, and I’d extremely advocate diving right here if you happen to can. They accommodate the second-largest coral reef within the japanese a part of the Pacific.
Divers can contact reef inhabitants comparable to whales, sharks, manta rays, and dolphins. The jagged volcanic peaks rising 30-60 meters above sea stage are replete with varied species, whereas the coastal areas permit recognizing relict types of wildlife.
As an illustration, super-cute sea turtles may be noticed nesting on the native seashores.
Location: west, close to the border of Costa Rica
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My favourite highlights…
Mountain climbing the Misplaced Waterfalls Path, the place I found three breathtaking pure showers.
Climbing as much as the very best peak in Panama, Volcan Baru Nationwide Park and discovering awe-inspiring views overlooking the ocean.
Eating on tasty deep-fried vegetable tempura on the fashionable Christopher’s American Bistro.
9. Soberania Nationwide Park
Situated 40 km north of Panama Metropolis, the Soberania Nationwide Park boasts in depth swaths of tropical forest. It is among the finest birdwatching spots on this planet, inhabited by a few thousand feathered species.
Soberania Park is the one place to look at the Topped Eagle and the Sunbittern. The park retooled the previous five-floor radar tower to make birdwatching extra handy. I recommend heading for his or her commentary deck to see uncommon birds of their pure surroundings!
Dense rainforests have various pure options that are perfect for climbing. The park’s spotlight is the hanging thickets of cotton timber towering 60 meters above the sky. Among the routes have comfy campgrounds.
Location: middle of the nation
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My favourite highlights…
Climbing as much as the Panama Rainforest Discovery Middle’s spiral staircase and seeing an unbelievable fowl’s eye view above the cover.
Mountain climbing the scenic Plantation Highway path which was residence to a number of waterfall viewpoints and unique tropical vegetation.
Going for a swim within the pure swimming pools of the El Charco Path, surrounded by picnic spots and scenic magnificence.
10. Boquete
A small village, Boquete is one in all Panama’s hottest vacationer points of interest. It’s additionally very fairly. Nestled within the valley of the Caldera River, it’s surrounded by mountains on three sides, which largely decide its panorama.
Within the west, Boquete borders the Baru volcano. From the north, the city is confined by the Talamanca mountain vary. Town’s japanese outskirts merge with the Jaramillo Mountains. Boquete begins an enchanting seven-hour journey to the Baru volcano, the nation’s highest summit.
At its prime, you’ll be amazed by the magnificent view of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The city additionally options cozy parks, espresso plantations, and an deserted palace (I like to recommend visiting!).
Accompanied by a information, you’ll be able to discover the jungles teeming with unique birds, together with Quetzal, the sacred Indian fowl with brilliant plumage and a protracted tail. Whereas climbing within the jungles, you’ll be able to take a look at waterfalls and a mountain canyon with a pure water pool.
Location: Chiriquí Province, west
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My private highlights…
Attempting out the enjoyable zipline, which missed the forest.
Happening the hanging bridges tour, the bridge right here is Central America’s second longest and highest.
Happening an fascinating jungle tour and seeing unbelievable birdlife.
11. Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina is among the finest browsing spots in Panama. This small village is positioned within the Veraguas province on the coast of the Gulf of Chiriquí. Santa Catalina’s seashores, Playa Santa Catalina and Playa Estero are identified for mighty waves as much as 10 meters excessive.
The ebb and circulate fluctuate inside 8 meters, thus creating stable tides. The seashores are smeared with black volcanic sand and supply a surprising view of the solar setting behind the horizon. You would possibly wish to discover different bay seashores simply outdoors Santa Catalina.
The stroll will take roughly 2.5-3.5 hours. You may hire a small boat or a yacht for an unbelievable crusing expertise or a visit on the excessive seas.
Location: Veraguas Province, south
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My highlights…
Watching the surfers journey the waves at La Punta Seaside.
Watching the solar go down at La Coquita residence to spectacular black sand shadows at night time.
Kayaking over to the white sand seashore on Isla Catalina and climbing as much as the perspective on the island.
12. Isla Taboga
Twenty kilometers from Panama Metropolis is the charming, historic Taboga Island. 4 centuries in the past, it was the location of the primary deepwater port within the area.
Frequent pirate raids pressured the locals to construct a system of defensive constructions on the close by Island of El Morro.
That they had served for 300 years and, within the XIX century, have been used because the headquarters of the Pacific Steam Firm.
The pirates’ defences have been preserved to at the present time. In addition to them, Isla Taboga is legendary for its seashores, commentary platform close to the partitions of the outdated American army bunker, the oldest in Latin America church of the XVI-XVII centuries, an array of tropical rainforests, quite a lot of hibiscus and bougainvillea gardens, and one of many largest colonies of brown pelicans.
Location: 12 miles off the coast of Panama Metropolis
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My highlights…
Strolling by the quiet Spanish-settled village, which was full of fairly colourful homes.
Spending the day sunbathing on Playa Restinga and strolling alongside the sandbar to Isla El Morro throughout low tide.
Strolling to the perspective at Cerro de la Cruz and seeing a spectacular view of the island and the encircling ocean.
13. Sundown Coast, Azuero Peninsula
Sundown Coast is called for its expansive shoreline within the western portion of the Azuero Peninsula. You’ll love visiting Sundown Coast as a result of, with the Azuero Peninsula’s form, that is the one space the place you’ll be able to see a wide ranging shoreline sundown, therefore its identify.
If you go to Sundown Coast, I recommend stopping by Coiba Nationwide Park to see essentially the most in depth coral reef within the Pacific. Bounce in and go scuba diving or snorkeling to catch the attractive coral reef. I like to recommend deep-sea diving for the most effective undersea experiences worldwide!
Jaguars, crested eagles, and howler monkeys inhabit Coiba Nationwide Park and the bird-watching alternatives listed here are additionally unbelievable; I used to be fortunate sufficient to identify a scarlet macaw!
Location: south
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My highlights…
Catching a powerful sundown over the shoreline with a tropical cocktail in hand!
Going snorkeling and seeing the gorgeous coral reef.
Attempting enjoyable boogie boarding (which was simpler than my surf classes)!
14. Los Cangilones
Los Cangliones is your go-to vacation spot for village procuring and canyon views whereas leaping within the close by waters.
The bus to get there may be low-cost and solely prices $1.50 per individual per journey. A mini grocery store greets you when the bus drops you off so you’ll be able to decide up any snacks or seashore provides you want.
It’s a quick stroll to the canyons and waters, the place you’ll be able to privately sunbathe, swim, and sightsee, relying on how many individuals are close by.
I’d recommend packing a giant picnic to benefit from the beautiful views after a enjoyable swim within the water!
Location: Gualaca, approx. a 40 minuted drive from Boquete
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)
My favourite highlights…
Shopping for a packed lunch on the native grocery store and spending a day by the canyons.
Watching the braver guests soar off the pure rock formations into the aqua-colored waters.
Swimming by the crystal-clear canyon that stretches over 40 meters in size.
15. Punta Chame
Punta Chame is a tiny metropolis with solely a inhabitants of 443, however the seashores are untouched and delightful. The waters to the left are shallower and calmer, so it’s simpler so that you can go kitesurfing.
Stroll the white sand for a stunning beachside expertise. Be ready as a result of it goes 22 miles lengthy. A portion of the seashore meets the Pacific Ocean.
Make it a complete day journey to discover this stretch of seashore land to see its huge magnificence whereas taking some swims in between.
Be conscious of jellyfish within the water or washed up on the seashore. They’ll sting even when they’re lifeless, so tread with warning!
Location: Chame District, Panamá Oeste Province
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)
My private highlights…
Hiring a paddleboard which was a enjoyable method to discover the coast!
Exploring the petite metropolis’s fishing village and surrounding areas by bike.
Attempting kite browsing! The ocean circumstances listed here are excellent for all talents.
16. Isla Perro
This paradise-like Island is a part of the San Blas Islands however I feel it deserves a particular point out. Crystal blue waters and tropical palm timber encompass the small island.
Due to its clear waters, snorkelers like to discover marine life all through Guna Yala.
Probably the most distinctive side of Isla Perro is the shipwreck in entrance of the Island. Snorkelers can discover artefacts from the military gunboat washed ashore a few years in the past. You might even see the rusty bow protruding from the water with a low tide.
If you do not need the water journey to finish, hire one of many 30 campsites out there. Then, the subsequent day, you’ll be able to discover extra of the territory.
Location: San Blas, east of the nation
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My favourite highlights…
Going snorkeling within the clear turquoise waters and discovering a shipwreck and a fairly coral reef.
Capturing photos of the dreamy palm timber and beautiful clear water for my Instagram.
Attempting volleyball on their court docket (I wasn’t a lot good, although, sadly)!
17. Pedasi
Pedasi is a small fishing city well-known for year-round comfy climate, residential colonial-style buildings, and lots of seashores in its neighborhood.
The primary pure spotlight of Pedasi is Isla Iguana. This nature reserve occupies 52 hectares and is surrounded by coral reefs. Greater than 62 species of birds discovered their residence right here, a lot of which, such because the Lesser Frigatebird, are below state safety.
It is usually a reptile habitat, together with the black iguana named the Island. Tropical fish, moray eels, and turtles stay within the waters, whereas humpback whales keep right here briefly throughout the migration seasons.
The native waters are bristling with varied fish, together with ten tuna species. So, I’d advocate wildlife recognizing right here!
Location: south-eastern tip of the Azuero Peninsula
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My private highlights…
Indulging in scrumptious freshly made ceviche at Restaurante El Chichemito.
Attending the enjoyable Barro Fest in February and watching a great deal of stay bands!
Happening an unbelievable Turtle Watching Tour and recognizing tremendous cute sea turtles.
18. Isla Grande
Isla Grande, the nation’s largest Island, is positioned 15 km from the historic city Portobelo. The coast of the Island homes magnificent seashores with white sand and turquoise water.
Suppose you determine to absorb the solar. The seashores have all the things you want: sunbeds, umbrellas, coastal bars with varied unique drinks, and comfortable eating places to get acquainted with conventional Panamanian delicacies. Lively recreation buffs will discover many interesting actions, too.
The waters of Isla Grande are dripping with coral reefs, creating a really perfect backdrop for diving, snorkeling, and browsing. If you wish to study extra concerning the traditions and customs of Panama, you should definitely go to one of many native resorts with an genuine Caribbean vibe.
I like to recommend stopping by Portobello and having fun with its medieval allure when you have spare hours.
Location: Portobelo District, Colón Province
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My highlights…
Sipping on a handcrafted signature cocktail at The OC Bar & Lounge which provided beautiful views overlooking the Caribbean Ocean.
Taking a ship tour across the shoreline and seeing lovely vegetation panorama.
Eating on freshly made sushi at La Playita restaurant.
19. Panama Metropolis
The capital of Panama is a contemporary, thriving metropolis stretched 10 km alongside the Pacific coast from the ruins of Panama Viejo within the east to the coast of the Panama Canal within the west.
The spotlight of Panama Metropolis is vibrant contrasts, a fusion of historic historical past and up to date structure of the XXI century.
Just like the United Arab Emirates, its enterprise middle has formidable skyscrapers. Vigorous, trendy areas are facet by facet with quiet streets imbued with historical past.
Town has a enterprise really feel, so I feel it doesn’t have a lot for vacationers right here, however the metropolis’s most picturesque historic district is the outdated city of San Felipe. This space impresses with historic structure and miraculously preserved traditions.
I like to recommend exploring the sq., museums, church buildings, and the monastery ruins. If you’ll want to recharge your batteries, I recommend stopping at one in all its cosmopolitan eating places.
Location: east-central a part of the nation
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)
My highlights…
Wandering by Casco Viejo’s streets and admiring the Outdated City Quarter’s fairly structure.
Testing the big Artisan Market which was full of handcrafted merchandise.
Visiting Plaza De La Independencia which was residence to boutiques and conventional eating places.