Drawing each vacationers and backpackers from everywhere in the globe, this Central American nation has an unfussy, laid-back vibe and a few really beautiful spots. From fashionable surf resorts and paradise-esque archipelagos to sleepy mountain enclaves and dramatic diving spots, listed here are the locations 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 crammed with a wealthy Guna tradition, the much less commercialized Kagantupu, and Coco Blanco which was my favourite island for snorkeling.
My favourite highlights…
- Spending an evening in an Instagrammable over-water cabin which was a really distinctive expertise!
- Taking a ship tour round a number of lovely islands and admiring the beautiful surroundings.
- Going scuba diving and seeing the beautiful coral reefs and colourful marine life.
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2. Panama Canal
The monumental Canal is among the fashionable 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 way of 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, one of the best place to watch ships is situated northeast of Panama Metropolis, close to the partitions of the large seven-hundred-ton sluice gate Miraflores.
My private highlights…
- Exploring the Miraflores Customer Middle, a four-story interactive museum and studying concerning the canal’s historical past.
- Capturing an Insta-worthy shot overlooking the canal.
- Seeing the locks working!
3. Playa Venao
The Azuero Peninsula is understood 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 an enormous 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 fanatics worldwide rush to Playa Venao to hone and showcase their browsing expertise and its additionally a fantastic diving spot too as its house to beautiful coral reefs, tropical fish and even close by ship wrecks. The shore is dotted with diving faculties the place we might simply lease gear and take classes from skilled instructors.
I like to recommend simply kicking again, sunbathing on the lengthy, broad 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!
My highlights…
- Taking surf classes on the native surf college.
- Having fun with cocktails and searching on the sundown at Selina’s Seashore Bar (there are additionally some vigorous seashore events after darkish).
- Stress-free with a rejuvenating therapeutic massage on the Nourish Spa.
4. Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is a sequence 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’s also a backpacking and vacationer magnificence spot.
Boasting inexperienced palm forests, an enormous shoreline of white sand, and crystal clear water, Bocas del Toro is certainly one of Panama’s most well-known vacationer areas, and for good cause: it’s severely beautiful! Pristine landscapes are interspersed with fashionable resorts.
Followers of scuba diving and sea fishing flock to the islands all 12 months spherical to see a few of the greatest coral reefs on the planet, a lot beloved for his or her distinctive underwater gardens. The snorkeling right here can be chic and might simply spot stingrays, crabs, and many sorts of colourful tropical fish species.
My private highlights…
- Renting an E-bike (from Flying Pirates Bocas) and driving 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 experience the unimaginable waves.
5. Casco Viejo
The enticing space of Casco Viejo sits east of Panama Metropolis, the nation’s capital and I beloved this place! That is the very first settlement constructed by Europeans on the Pacific coast. It was based in 1519 and shortly grew to become one of the vital buying and selling facilities on the continent.
The transit route from Peru to the Previous World, carrying the Incas’ gold and silver, ran by way of the city. In 1671, a pirate raid led by Henry Morgan virtually razed Panama Viejo, abandoning numerous ruins.
Nonetheless, 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 previous quarters of Panama Viejo had been acknowledged as UNESCO World Heritage websites.
My private highlights…
- Sipping on a cup of espresso constituted of the well-known geisha beans, which had been domestically grown.
- Wandering to the Plaza Francia and photographing the skylines of 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 virtually 5 km.
The reserve is valued for its distinctive moist mountain forest ecosystem, and in my view, it’s price 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 encompassing 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.
Due to 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.
My highlights…
- Having fun with a dawn hike by way of the scenic Sleeping Indian Path.
- Crossing the excessive suspension bridge by way of 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 grew to become identified to Europeans in 1513 when an Indian chief revealed a secret concerning the mysterious islands adorned with pearls.
Since then, pearl mining has turn into the main commerce on the islands. Nonetheless, the archipelago grew to become one of many favorite vacation locations for the good and the nice (former US President Jimmy Carter, Spanish Prime Minister Adolfo Suarez Gonzalez, and the Shah of Iran stayed right here), and I used to be an enormous fan, too!
The Pearl Islands have 83 glorious seashores, quite a few beautiful lodges and visitor homes, and one of the enticing snorkeling spots.
My private highlights…
- Kayaking on the pristine waters, which took me previous beautiful surroundings.
- Stress-free on the beautiful Isla Saboga which provided a beautiful restaurant and nice snorkelling.
- Exploring the luxurious jungles on foot with an area information.
8. Gulf of Chiriquí
Based in 1994, the Gulf of Chiriquí Nationwide Marine Park is situated on the Pacific coast of Panama within the bay of the identical title.
The park is unfold throughout 25 volcanic islands lined with pristine tropical forest. The tranquil waters across the islands are thought-about one of the best diving place, and I might extremely suggest diving right here in the event you can. They accommodate the second-largest coral reef within the jap 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 numerous species, whereas the coastal areas permit recognizing relict types of natural world.
As an illustration, super-cute sea turtles may be noticed nesting on the native seashores.
My favourite highlights…
- Mountaineering 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 intensive swaths of tropical forest. It is among the greatest birdwatching spots on the earth, inhabited by a couple of thousand feathered species.
Soberania Park is the one place to watch the Topped Eagle and the Sunbittern. The park retooled the previous five-floor radar tower to make birdwatching extra handy. I counsel heading for his or her remark deck to see uncommon birds of their pure setting!
Dense rainforests have various pure options that are perfect for mountaineering. The park’s spotlight is the hanging thickets of cotton bushes towering 60 meters above the sky. A number of the routes have comfy campgrounds.
My favourite highlights…
- Climbing as much as the Panama Rainforest Discovery Middle’s spiral staircase and seeing an unimaginable hen’s eye view above the cover.
- Mountaineering the scenic Plantation Highway path which was house 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 certainly one of Panama’s hottest vacationer sights. 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. The town’s jap outskirts merge with the Jaramillo Mountains. Boquete begins an enchanting seven-hour journey to the Baru volcano, the nation’s highest summit.
At its high, 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 may discover the jungles teeming with unique birds, together with Quetzal, the sacred Indian hen with shiny plumage and a protracted tail. Whereas mountaineering within the jungles, you may take a look at waterfalls and a mountain canyon with a pure water pool.
My private highlights…
- Attempting out the enjoyable zipline, which missed the forest.
- Occurring the hanging bridges tour, the bridge right here is Central America’s second longest and highest.
- Occurring an fascinating jungle tour and seeing unimaginable birdlife.
11. Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina is among the greatest browsing spots in Panama. This small village is situated 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 move fluctuate inside 8 meters, thus creating strong tides. The seashores are smeared with black volcanic sand and provide a shocking view of the solar setting behind the horizon. You may wish to discover different bay seashores simply outdoors Santa Catalina.
The stroll will take roughly 2.5-3.5 hours. You’ll be able to lease a small boat or a yacht for an unimaginable crusing expertise or a visit on the excessive seas.
My highlights…
- Watching the surfers experience the waves at La Punta Seashore.
- Watching the solar go down at La Coquita house to spectacular black sand shadows at night time.
- Kayaking over to the white sand seashore on Isla Catalina and mountaineering as much as the point of view 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 compelled the locals to construct a system of defensive constructions on the close by Island of El Morro.
They’d served for 300 years and, within the XIX century, had been used because the headquarters of the Pacific Steam Firm.
The pirates’ defences have been preserved to at the present time. Apart from them, Isla Taboga is known for its seashores, remark platform close to the partitions of the previous American navy bunker, the oldest in Latin America church of the XVI-XVII centuries, an array of tropical rainforests, a wide range of hibiscus and bougainvillea gardens, and one of many largest colonies of brown pelicans.
My highlights…
- Strolling by way of the quiet Spanish-settled village, which was crammed with 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 point of view 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 may see a wide ranging shoreline sundown, therefore its title.
While you go to Sundown Coast, I counsel stopping by Coiba Nationwide Park to see probably the most intensive 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 probably the greatest undersea experiences worldwide!
Jaguars, crested eagles, and howler monkeys inhabit Coiba Nationwide Park and the bird-watching alternatives listed here are additionally unimaginable; I used to be fortunate sufficient to identify a scarlet macaw!
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 buying and canyon views whereas leaping within the close by waters. The bus to get there’s low-cost and solely prices $1.50 per particular person per experience. A mini grocery store greets you when the bus drops you off so you may choose up any snacks or seashore provides you want.
It’s a quick stroll to the canyons and waters, the place you may privately sunbathe, swim, and sightsee, relying on how many individuals are close by.
I might counsel packing an enormous picnic to benefit from the beautiful views after a enjoyable swim within the water!
My favourite highlights…
- Shopping for a packed lunch on the native grocery store and spending a day by the canyons.
- Watching the braver guests bounce off the pure rock formations into the aqua-colored waters.
- Swimming by way of 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 exquisite. 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 beautiful beachside expertise. Be ready as a result of it goes 22 miles lengthy. A portion of the seashore meets the Pacific Ocean. Make it an entire day journey to discover this stretch of seashore land to see its huge magnificence whereas taking some swims in between.
Be aware of jellyfish within the water or washed up on the seashore. They’ll sting even when they’re useless, so tread with warning.
My private highlights…
- Hiring a paddleboard which was a enjoyable technique 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 good for all skills.
16. Isla Perro
This paradise-like Island is a part of the San Blas Islands however deserves a particular point out. Crystal blue waters and tropical palm bushes encompass the small island.
Due to its clear waters, snorkelers like to discover marine life all through Guna Yala.
Essentially the most distinctive facet 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 may even see the rusty bow protruding from the water with a low tide.
If you don’t want the water journey to finish, lease one of many 30 campsites obtainable. Then, the subsequent day, you may discover extra of the territory.
My favourite highlights…
- Going snorkeling within the clear turquoise waters and discovering a shipwreck and a reasonably coral reef.
- Capturing photos of the dreamy palm bushes and beautiful clear water for my Instagram.
- Attempting volleyball on their courtroom (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 plenty 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 house right here, a lot of which, such because the Lesser Frigatebird, are beneath state safety.
It’s also 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 in the course of the migration seasons.
The native waters are bristling with numerous fish, together with ten tuna species. So, I might suggest wildlife recognizing right here!
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!
- Occurring an unimaginable Turtle Watching Tour and recognizing tremendous cute sea turtles.
18. Isla Grande
Isla Grande, the nation’s largest Island, is situated 15 km from the historic city Portobelo. The coast of the Island homes magnificent seashores with white sand and turquoise water.
Suppose you resolve to absorb the solar. The seashores have all the pieces you want: sunbeds, umbrellas, coastal bars with numerous unique drinks, and comfy eating places to get acquainted with conventional Panamanian delicacies. Energetic recreation buffs will discover many interesting actions, too.
The waters of Isla Grande are dripping with coral reefs, creating an excellent backdrop for diving, snorkeling, and browsing. If you wish to be taught extra concerning the traditions and customs of Panama, make sure to 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’ve got spare hours.
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. Energetic, fashionable areas are facet by facet with quiet streets imbued with historical past.
The town has a enterprise really feel, so I believe it doesn’t have a lot for vacationers right here, however the metropolis’s most picturesque historic district is the previous 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 could recharge your batteries, I counsel stopping at certainly one of its cosmopolitan eating places.
My highlights…
- Wandering by way of Casco Viejo’s streets and admiring the Previous City Quarter’s fairly structure.
- Trying out the massive Artisan Market which was crammed with handcrafted merchandise.
- Visiting Plaza De La Independencia which was house to boutiques and conventional eating places.
20. Península de Azuero
The Azuero Peninsula is an unassuming place that blends wealthy tradition, unbelievable structure, and engaging historical past, and I might extremely suggest visiting!
The peninsula consists of three provinces: Herrera, Los Santos, and Veraguas, leading to two areas – The East and the West. The East space is known for its annual vigorous actions, together with its carnival. Pedasí is your house if you’re a browsing and nature fan.
A captivating fishing city surrounded by Spanish colonial structure. The West space is well-known for its beautiful seashores and give attention to farming.
My highlights…
- Attending the fabulous and really Carnaval de Las Tablas (which takes place right here each February)
- Dancing the night time away at a wonderful seashore occasion.
- Stress-free at Sansara Surf and Yoga Resort.
21. Cerro Ancon
Cerro Ancon is a small path hike surrounded by canyons and waterfalls. I might counsel beginning your journey on the Mi Pueblito trailhead. Journey the stairway at this entrance to start the trek.
It’s free to hike the world of 654 ft in elevation, and it takes solely half-hour to finish all the enterprise. The path is house to a jungle inside a metropolis of over 1 million people.
Look ahead to the incline as you hike. Throughout your journey, you may see Casa Viejo, which has scenic views of the Panama Canal. The Bridge of the Americas is a sight to behold above the Canal.
The Miraflores Locks is among the three locks all through the Panama Canal and is called after the gate to the Pacific.
My private highlights…
- Photographing the breathtaking surroundings at numerous stops alongside the path.
- Seeing unimaginable views of the Panama Canal.