Home to an internationally famous canal, Panama is also a destination of incomparable natural beauty. Explore forest-clad mountains, relax on blissful tropical islands and spot wildlife on this narrow strip of land, fringed by Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Panama connects Central America with South America and was colonized by the Spanish in the 1500s. Today, Panama is home to diverse cultural groups.
Panama’s capital, Panama City, lies at the center of the country. This intriguing city blends sleepy colonial districts with street markets, a fast-paced financial center and an exciting nightlife. Panama City is a great base for visiting the country’s major attractions. Join a boat cruise along the Panama Canal, a fascinating feat of engineering that stretches for 48 miles (77 kilometers) from Panama City to Colón.
A varied landscape of rainforests, volcanos, mountains and wildlife reserves surround Panama City. Follow walking trails to spot tropical birds and monkeys in Soberanía National Park. Learn about native flora and fauna at Gamboa Rainforest Resort. Ride on horseback to the summit of Volcan Baru National Park, in the picturesque Chiriquí Province. Visit the Emberá and Wounaan communities in Darién National Park, a wilderness of beaches, jungles and mangrove swamps.
Go to the Caribbean coast to experience a culture influenced by Barbadians and Jamaicans. Unwind on white-sand beaches and snorkel at the idyllic islands of Bocas del Toro. Wander around the colonial ruins of Portobelo, the gateway to Isla Grande. Take a boat trip to the San Blas Islands, home to the Kuna people.
Panama’s beach life extends to the Pacific coast, too. Check out the resorts in Playa Coronado, join the carnival in Las Tablas or hit the surf breaks in Pedasi. Visit secluded islands such as Contadora and Taboga. Swim with multicolored marine life in the crystal-clear waters of Isla de Coiba.
Economic growth and a currency tied to the U.S. dollar make Panama one of Central America’s more expensive destinations. Enjoy consistently warm temperatures, history and gorgeous scenery in Panama.
