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the visitor panama tourist attractions

A land radiating with life, perfectly imperfect, and full of authenticity. Where Northern and Southern worlds connect, old and new worlds coexist, and cosmopolitan landscapes live in harmony with wild, untamed rainforests.

A country for those who seek beyond expectations, that dares you to see more. Taste more. Connect more. Feel more. A place for those who long more stimulation, connection and transformation. Panamá is not the destination, but the journey to discover more of what truly matters.

Make more lasting memories through an explosion of inspiration and purpose. And let the spirit of Panamá unlock a sense of belonging.

Panamá. Live for More.

Panamá's unique location provides the experience of a lifetime. We are gifted with having a wide range of rainforests, a desert, and breathtaking beaches on both coastlines, the Caribbean and the Pacific, all within driving distance of a cosmopolitan city. Ready to start exploring?

March to October

Best swell for surfing, june 3rd to 18th, corpus christi festival, june to november, best time for river rafting, march to august, tuna fishing season, birdwatching, hiking & waterfalls, visit indigenous communities, places to visit, panama city.

Panama City is much more than the country's capital. Here you can pedal in front of a skyline with some of the tallest skyscrapers in Latin America, enjoy the Pacific breeze as you ride along the Bay of Panama, walk among archaeological sites and trails, and see how colonial history and the night come alive in the same place. Panama City is a high-contrast destination where greenery, indigenous peoples and vibrant city life are waiting for you.

Bocas Del Toro

Bocas del Toro is one of the favorite destinations among Panamanians and visitors. Just a 45-minute flight from Panama City brings you to the north-westernmost province of the country. Immerse yourself in its cultures, cross forest-covered mountains, sail through mangroves, swim among reefs, surf the perfect wave and discover the good vibes of Bocas.

Boquete is a colorful, wooded valley surrounded by the mountains of Chiriquí, in northwestern Panamá. The valley of dreams? Maybe so. This is a recurring destination for those who dream of trails with waterfalls and exotic animals, climbing natural rock formations, tasting the best coffee and enjoying excellent seasonal meals. Discover this unique place where peace and adrenaline converge.

Tierras Altas

The Tierras Altas region is a quite different place from the rest of Panamá. It is a mountainous district located in the extreme west of the country, in the province of Chiriquí. Take in its peaks, forests, rivers, and set out on an adventure among agriculture and culinary activities it has in store for you. Can you fathom how it feels to see both oceans at the same time? Well, in Tierras Altas, you can!

Riviera Pacifica

The Riviera Pacifica extends along the Pan-American Highway, a 25 mile (40 km) stretch of road dotted with beaches and mountains. On your way out of Panama City, just 50 miles (80 km), on your left, you’ll see a number of beaches where you can enjoy the best plans in the Pacific. And on your right, mountainous areas await that are brimming with trails, waterfalls and adventures in a cooler climate. Which one sounds best to you?

Pedasí & Tonosí

The province of Los Santos, located in the south of Panamá, is the cradle of folklore. At the end, towards the Pacific, there are two unique points: Pedasi and Tonosi. Here you will enjoy natural beauties such as the migration of humpback whales from July to October. You can also visit Isla Iguana to dive over the oldest and largest coral reef in the Gulf of Panama and see many of the birds and iguanas that live there.

Pacific Coast of Veraguas

The province of Veraguas in central Panamá is an exciting destination full of epic adventures. Its Pacific coast is a true jewel where lovers of the sea and wildlife coexist to enjoy the beauties of the region.

In the province of Colón, facing the Caribbean Sea, you'll find Portobelo. Legend has it that Columbus named Portobelo as soon as he saw it. The color of its deep blue sea, the white of its beaches, along with the intense green of its forests and mangroves, deserve no other name: it is a beautiful port. Come and discover it for yourself!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Panama

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With access to both the turquoise Caribbean and the azure Pacific, Panama is attractively tropical all year round. Add to that excellent beaches and phenomenal natural scenery, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in Central America.

While it may be known for its iconic shipping waterway that connects the Pacific to the Atlantic, Panama has so much more to offer visitors than the Panama Canal – although seeing this humanmade masterpiece is unforgettable. From mountain villages and skyscraper cities to coffee plantations and island archipelagos, there is something in Panama for everyone. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Panama:

10. El Valle de Anton [SEE MAP]

El Valle de Anton

El Valle de Anton is a picturesque little Panamanian village in the Cocle Province of Central Panama. Surrounded by an ancient volcanic caldera, local families have been climbing the hills and swimming here for centuries, making it the oldest continually occupied volcanic site on Earth. Due to its isolation from the rest of civilization, it’s a prime example of Old Panama, where life is slower and the preferred mode of transport is a bicycle.

You won’t find much of western consumerist culture in the village – the most touristy options are an ice cream parlor and a pizza place open only on weekends. Instead, the focus in El Valle de Anton is on nature – and there’s plenty of it. Visit the local orchid conservatory or the amphibian rescue station, home to just some of Panama’s 10,000-strong plants and hundreds of amphibian species. Nearby forests offer excellent bird-watching, and the valleys of El Valle are home to an impressive set of waterfalls as well as some rare golden frogs.

9. Pearl Islands [SEE MAP]

Pearl Islands

Panama’s Pearl Islands are a cluster of islands in the Pacific that featured heavily during three seasons of the reality TV show Survivor. Some of the most beautiful islands in the world, they’re characterized by forested islands and pearl-white sandy beaches. While the majority of the islands’ beauty lies in their isolation, Contadora Island is the most developed and boasts two luxury tourist resorts.

Once home to native Indians until the 16th-century, the Pearl Islands were then taken over by the Spanish, who came in search of pearls, the island’s sought-after namesake. The pearl industry was prominent here, and they were counted, registered, and shipped from Contadora Island (which means ‘Counting Island’). Most of the activity surrounds relaxation: sunbathe on one of the many superb beaches, fish, and whale watch, or explore the old shipwreck that lies rusting away on the far side of Playa Larga, Contadora Island’s biggest beach.

8. Volcan Baru [SEE MAP]

Volcan Baru

Volcan Baru is the highest peak in Panama, offering some of the most amazing views over Costa Rica and the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Located in the Chiriqui Province of the Pacific West, the mountain is best reached at dawn, when you can witness an enchanting sunrise from the top. There are two ways you can ensure you reach the top in time: either you can start the hike around midnight and hike back later in the day, or you can hike up the day before and camp at Fogones campground near the summit.

There are two routes to choose from. The Boquete route is the easiest (yet still very challenging) and takes five to eight hours to ascend and three to five hours to descend. Many people prefer to take the Boquete route up and the Volcan route down, which is steeper and much more scenic. As you’ll climb a total of 3,474 meters above sea level, make sure you allow enough time to acclimatize, as mild altitude sickness is a risk.

7. Gulf of Chiriqui [SEE MAP]

Gulf of Chiriqui

The Gulf of Chiriquí stretches along the Pacific coastline between Costa Rica and the Azuero Peninsula. It’s made up of countless scenic marine islands and beaches topped with forests and coco palms, including two national parks – Golfo de Chiriquí National Park and Coiba National Park, which is also the largest island in Panama.

Established in 1994, this marine park protects thousands of hectares of coral reefs, some of the richest mangrove forests in Central America, and some glorious coastal meadows. The most touristy offerings can be found on the islands of Cala Mia Island Resort, Isla Palenque, and Isla Secas.

Coiba National Park is a popular spot for humpback whale watching between May and November, and Galapagos seals can sometimes be seen on the far-away island of Montuosa. For those who prefer to just hang out and soak up the island life, sunbathing on one of the amazing beaches is encouraged, while those in search of a little more activity can find it surfing, scuba diving, or sport fishing.

6. Boquete [SEE MAP]

Boquete

Located in the Chiriqui province in the Pacific West, Boquete village is a great place to enjoy a little R&R. Enjoy plenty of fresh mountain air while surrounded by a patchwork of beautiful coffee plantations. Home to a surprising number of North American expats, this small-town mountain village has become a destination for health tourism, with a number of luxury spas and hotels.

For those in search of adrenalin, Boquete has a focus on the outdoors, with a pleasant temperature in the low 70s all year round – something that’s given it its nickname ‘The Land of Eternal Springtime.’ It’s also dubbed ‘the Valley of the Flowers’ and offers a lesser-known alternative to Costa Rica’s tourism draws. You can be as adventurous as you dare here. Go zip-lining through the rainforest, white water rafting, hike the Baru volcano, or trek in search of howler monkeys and resplendent quetzal. Or simply take your time exploring the region’s picturesque coffee plantations sipping on some of the world’s best brews.

5. Santa Catalina [SEE MAP]

Santa Catalina

It may just be a quiet fishing village off Panama’s Pacific coast, but Santa Catalina is one of the country’s top tourist destinations. In fact, it is the village’s remoteness and unspoiled authenticity that appeals to most travelers. Adding to that, Santa Catalina is a popular surfing and diving spot with fantastic beaches as well as a frequent gateway to the Coiba National Marine Park.

Santa Catalina is small enough that it can be explored completely by walking. Tourists will not find any major landmarks, man-made attractions or shopping malls in this quaint village, but what they will discover are friendly people, a laid-back atmosphere and sandy beaches offering swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sport fishing. With some of the best and most regular surf breaks in all of Central America, Santa Catalina is also a surfer’s dream. The idyllic landscapes surrounding the village present horseback riding and birdwatching opportunities.

As Santa Catalina can only be reached by a single yet windy paved road from Sona, it’s advised that you travel during daylight hours as cattle can cause sudden dangerous roadblocks.

4. San Blas Islands [SEE MAP]

San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are a collection of islands off the Caribbean coast. They’re self-governed by the indigenous Kuna Yala tribe, who speak Tulekaya – their own language. A popular backpacker destination on the route between Colombia and Panama, the islands are slowly becoming more touristy. Yet even today, you can witness everyday life in an indigenous community where electricity isn’t always a given and ATMs are non-existent. Visitors are advised to bring plenty of cash for their visit.

Time spent on the San Blas Islands consists of sunbathing on the pristine, palm-lined beaches as well as swimming, snorkeling and diving among hundreds of tropical fish species. Hiking trails amid lush vegetation offer views of colorful birds and calls of howler monkeys. Visiting the Kuna Yala Indians is a good way to learn about their language, traditions, music and distinctive dress. The tribe members often host festivals and dances as well as sell handicrafts, which make good souvenirs.

3. Bocas del Toro [SEE MAP]

Bocas del Toro

The Bocas del Toro Archipelago is a cluster of islands, islets, and cays between Almirante Bay and Chiriqui Lagoon in the Caribbean Sea. Located in the north-western region of Panama, the island group is part of the district and province of Bocas del Toro, and is also home to a significant city of the same name.

Visitors can explore the islands easily via water taxis and private boats, while Isla Colon is also accessible via ferry and plane with an international airport. A magical wonderland of wild jungle, national parks, and biodiverse habitats for a plethora of birds and marine turtles, a href=”https://www.touropia.com/best-places-to-stay-in-bocas-del-toro/” target=”_blank”>Bocas del Toro is home to fascinating fauna and flora – some of which can only be found here. Endangered species include painted rabbits, green iguanas, and howler monkeys.

Like the rest of the Caribbean, with gorgeous beaches and beautiful blue waters, diving and snorkeling are popular activities. The province’s capital city, Bocas del Toro, is a melting pot of ethnicities – from Western Caribe to Latino’s and extraneros – with plenty of food and traditions aligned with each. Plus, while most of the islands are focused around chilling out, Bocas Town has a surprisingly good nightlife scene when the sun goes down.

2. Panama City [SEE MAP]

Panama City

Panama’s capital and largest city, Panama City has plenty to shout about. As the national and provincial capital, it’s also the most modern city in Central America. To give you an idea of its modernity, it’s unofficially dubbed ‘the Dubai of Latin America’ You’ll find high-end resorts, shopping malls, and glitzy skyscrapers lining every meter of the city.

Like New York, the preferred method of transport is by taxi. Most city-dwellers won’t walk more than half a mile on foot. If you prefer the flexibility of walking, the cobblestone streets and colonial buildings of the historic quarter, Casco Viejo, are more pedestrian-friendly.

Panama City is known for its excellent views surrounded by the Panamanian rainforest creeping into the confines of the city. Witness the might of the Panama Canal – undoubtedly the highlight in this multicultural capital – with a skydive, climb up the Bridge of the Americas for a fantastic view of the cityscape, or rent a bike and cycle to the four islands along the Amador Causeway.

1. Panama Canal [SEE MAP]

#1 of Best Places To Visit In Panama

The Panama Canal is one of the most famous landmarks in Panama – and indeed, all of Central America. Running between Panama City on the Pacific side and Colon on the Atlantic side, the waterway provides a shortcut between two oceans, and one of the world’s most popular shipping zones. It was initially constructed by the French in the late 19th-century; however, the project was deserted in 1893 after thousands of workers fell ill and died from malaria, yellow fever, and other diseases.

A decade later, the United States took over, with much more powerful machinery. They were able to complete this massive feat of engineering in 1914. A total of three major locks give access to the canal system and are the best places to witness the mechanics of the canal in action, particularly from the Miraflores Visitor Center, just a short drive outside of the capital. It takes eight minutes to fill or release the water in each lock and raise or lower the ship to the next water level, where it passes through the next lock. All in all, it takes just ten hours in total for a ship to travel from one ocean to another.

Map of Panama

Panama Map

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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Panama City, Panama

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Panama City offers all the comforts and glamour of a modern city, but has also done an excellent job of preserving its historical areas and attractions. Gleaming high-rise towers, a world-class airport, and fast-moving expressways stand in stark contrast to the slower pace of the historical center.

Many of the city's top tourist attractions are located in Casco Viejo , the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Old Town . Here, narrow streets lined with old architecture provide a glimpse into the past, while offering amenities like restaurants, hotels, and shops. Casco Viejo should not be confused with the original city at Panama Viejo , an area with a few remaining, mostly non-restored, ruins. Although it takes more imagination to visualize what used to be here, a trip to the site is still worthwhile.

Other important highlights can be found just outside of Panama City, including one of Panama's most famous sites , the Panama Canal . Also beyond the city limits but within easy reach are some lovely natural areas, perfect for spotting wildlife or hitting the hiking trails. Plan your visit with our list of things to do in Panama City, Panama.

1. See the Panama Canal

2. stroll the historic streets of casco viejo (old town), 3. visit historic panama viejo, 4. plaza de la independencia & catedral metropolitana, casco viejo, 5. iglesia y convento de la compania de jesus, casco viejo, 6. iglesia y convento de santo domingo, casco viejo, 7. wander through paseo de las bovedas & plaza de francia, casco viejo, 8. panama canal museum, casco viejo, 9. visit biomuseo (museum of bio diversity at panama), 10. learn about wildlife at the panama rainforest discovery center, 11. get back to nature at parque nacional soberania, 12. walk through the botanical gardens at parque municipal summit, where to stay in panama city for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in panama city, panama.

Panama Canal

A visit to Panama City is not complete without seeing the famous Panama Canal. Depending on your level of interest and the amount of time you have available, you can either take a boat tour through the canal, or see the locks from a viewing platform on shore.

If you are only interested in seeing the locks, head to the Miraflores Visitor Center , where you'll find a museum, multiple viewing platforms over the Miraflores Locks, and a restaurant offering the same outstanding view. Also on the grounds is an IMAX theater (separate admission fee). Be sure to arrive between 9 and 11am or 3 and 5pm, when the ships tend to transit the locks.

View of the Panama Canal from Miraflores Visitor Center

This is about 25 minutes by car from downtown Panama City. A short drive farther on are the Pedro Miguel Locks . There are no tourist facilities here, but you can get a free glimpse of the canal.

One of the most popular things to do in Panama City and best ways to experience the canal is an Ocean to Ocean Panama Canal and Jungle Tour . This is an eight- or nine-hour tour of the canal, which includes a boat trip, a stop at the Gatun Lock Visitor Center, a chance to explore Gatun Lake and Monkey Island and see some wildlife, and a stop at Fort San Lorenzo.

If you are staying in Panama City and want to watch the ships coming and going from the canal, the Radisson Hotel Panama Canal is a lovely hotel at the mouth of the canal. You can book a room with a balcony overlooking the entrance to the Panama Canal and watch the ships coming and going. The hotel also has a beautiful pool and is set in a quiet neighborhood, offering a pleasant retreat from the city.

Plaza Bolivar in Casco Viejo

The most enchanting area of Panama City is Casco Viejo, the Old Town. It was founded in 1671 after the original city, about seven kilometers up the coast, was ransacked by the marauding Captain Morgan. While the Old Town is actually a mix of old ruins and not-quite-as-old architecture, you can still find some impressive buildings here that date to the late 17 th century.

Casco Viejo was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, and since then the area has evolved from a former urban slum to the city's central showpiece. Today, visitors come here to wander the narrow streets, shop, and capture some great pictures of this historical oasis.

Street in Casco Viejo, Panama City

Casco Viejo is relatively compact, surrounded by water on three sides, and the main sights are easily explored on foot. Some of the must-see attractions include the majestic Iglesia y Convento de la Compania de Jesus , the Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo with its unique arch, and the Paseo de las Bovedas . The latter is one of the best places to visit for views of the modern city, and it's a pleasant area to shop for souvenirs.

At night, after the heat of the day starts to recede, this area of Panama City comes alive with people. Step out in the sultry evening air and enjoy dining under the lights of an ancient ruin, and take in a bit of nightlife. Lessep's Bistro Cafe is an always dependable French Restaurant in the Old City, open for lunch or dinner.

Ruins in Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo is the original site where the city was founded in 1519. Located about a 15- to 20-minute drive out of the city towards Tocumen International Airport, this historical sight is worth the effort to visit. The 14 remaining ruins are spread out over an area about 1.5 kilometers long.

The Museo de Sitio Panama Viejo is a perfect place to start your visit, where you can view a scale model of the ruins to gain perspective on what was once on the site. The best historical structures are the churches, including the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion , dating from 1619; the Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco ; and the Iglesia de San Jose , noted for its vaulted side chapels.

Other interesting things to see include the Puente del Rey , a bridge from 1617, reputed to be the oldest in the Americas, and Casa Alarcon, dating from the 1640s and considered one of the best preserved private residences.

Catedral Metropolitana

As you wander the old city, chances are you'll end up at the Plaza de la Independencia. Also called Plaza Mayor or Plaza de la Catedral , the park celebrates Panama declaring independence from Colombia in November, 1903. On one side of the plaza is the imposing Catedral Metropolitana, dating from 1688, home of the Archdiocese of Panama.

In the center of the plaza, you'll find benches beneath large trees and a lovely, white octagonal shelter, where people come to sit and visit. It's also handy for sudden downpours. The plaza is an ideal place to get dropped off or picked up by taxi or Uber, since the streets are wide, unlike the other areas of the Old City.

Along one edge of the park is the luxury Central Hotel Panama . Staying here puts you in the heart of the action, but also offers a splendid retreat at the end of a long day of sightseeing.

Iglesia y Convento de la Compania de Jesus

Dating from 1741, all that remains of this convent and church are towering walls and arches. Nonetheless, it is a central landmark and one of the most impressive and most photographed sites in the Old Town .

The site is a quiet escape from the city, and the walls and nooks provide some shade from Panama's intense sun and heat. At night, floodlights illuminate the structure, creating a dramatic setting.

Look closely at the walls to see an assortment of sea shells found in the surrounding waters. The Iglesia y Convento de la Compania de Jesus is just to the southwest of the Plaza de la Indepencia.

Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo

Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo is another of the few actual ruins in Casco Viejo, although seemingly more intact than Iglesia y Convento de la Compania de Jesus. This well-preserved site consists of walls and arches, including one unique flat arch (arco chato), which was reportedly installed to help with acoustics.

Arco Chato at Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo

Located on the same property, adjoining the ruins, is the Museo de Arte Religiouso Colonial , displaying a collection of artwork dating from the 16th century. In the evening, the restaurant across the street sets up tables and chairs in front of the ruins, and the area becomes a perfect spot to stop and soak up the scenery.

Paseo de las Bovedas

For souvenir shopping, Paseo de las Bovedas or Estaban Huertas, popularly known as Lovers Lane, is a good place to start. Located at the southern end of Casco Viejo, this walkway along the old seawall is lined with numerous tables of vendors selling interesting items, ranging from license plates right through to indigenous artwork and crafts.

Covered with bougainvillea and set along the oceanfront, this area is a welcome respite from the sun and heat of the inner streets. It's also a great place to snap a photo of the glimmering glass towers of downtown Panama City farther down the shore.

If you keep walking past the vendors, you will eventually end up at Plaza de Francia , a small park and monument celebrating the historical relationship between Panama and France.

Panama Canal Museum

Housed in a wonderfully restored building dating from 1874, which was once Panama City's main post office, is the Panama Canal Museum. It's located on Plaza de la Independencia in Casco Viejo and can be easily visited as part of your tour of the old town.

Fascinating displays showcase the development of the canal over the years, beginning with the attempts made by France, which were later abandoned, and continuing through to the construction by the United States and the eventual return of the canal to the Panamanian Government.

The colorful Biomuseo on Panama City's skyline

When you look out at the ocean from the Old City, or perhaps from your high-rise hotel room, you may notice a colorful building off in the distance towards the entrance to the canal. This is the Biomuseo. Designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry , this unusually shaped building is set on the Amador Causeway and is surrounded by walking and biking trails.

Inside, eight galleries showcase the natural and cultural history of Panama. Free guides are on hand and are more than happy to show you around and answer any questions you might have.

Official site: https://www.biomuseopanama.org/en

Howler monkey at the Panama Rainforest Discovery Center

Less than an hour from Panama City, the Rainforest Discovery Center is a great family outing or fun destination for anyone who wants to experience nature without embarking on a long hike.

One of the main things to do here is a climb up the 100-foot observation tower , where you can experience the various levels of the jungle canopy. The tower is reached via a 1.1-kilometer hiking trail , which also winds down to Lake Calamito and offers plenty of opportunity to spot the abundant wildlife . Sloths, monkeys, coatis, toucans, and a variety of other birds are some of the usual suspects seen here. Another highlight is watching the hummingbirds come and go at the feeders.

There are limited facilities here, so be sure to pack a lunch or snacks.

Gatun Lake in Parque Nacional Soberania

If you want to do some more serious hiking and see wildlife without venturing too far from the city, Parque Nacional Soberania is the place to go. Although it's hard to believe when you are in the heart of the city, there is a rainforest teeming with birds and animals less than 30 minutes away. One of the most popular parks in the country, it offers several hiking trails, including one that leads to a waterfall.

The park is home to over 500 species of birds, and Pipeline Road is one of the birdwatching hot spots in the country. In addition to birds, abundant mammals, lizards, amphibians, and reptiles are all lurking in the greenery. You may want to consider hiring a guide, who is more likely to know where to look for critters.

Harpy eagle

The frenetic pace of Panama City and the constant traffic can be a bit overwhelming. For a tranquil escape, head to the Parque Municipal Summit, just a short distance from downtown. The park provides an opportunity to get back to nature. If you are traveling with children, the park has a good playground.

A botanical garden takes up most of the park and features a variety of plants along with trees for much needed shade. The zoo is more of a rescue center than a proper zoo; it houses animals that range from jungle cats through to the national bird of Panama, the harpy eagle.

Luxury Hotels:

  • One of the top luxury hotels in downtown Panama City is Le Meridian. Rooms take advantage of the hotel's waterfront location with amazing views out over the Pacific Ocean. A trendy pool is on the 6th floor, and the Saril restaurant serves up innovative cuisine.
  • The Intercontinental Miramar Panama is another good choice, in a modern high-rise, just down the street from Le Meridian and also located on the waterfront. The large rooms are ideal for people who want a little more space. Walking trails along the waterfront are just outside the front door.
  • For those looking for a smaller boutique hotel in Casco Viejo , Las Clementinas is a quaint and luxurious colonial property with a shady courtyard. Ideally situated in the center of the Old Town, the hotel has only three studios and six apartments. It's also pet friendly.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • A good selection of mid-range hotels can be found in the downtown area. One of the top picks is the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Panama Punta Pacifica , located a short distance from the massive Multiplaza Pacific Mall.
  • The Hyatt Place Panama City is a smaller property, which still offers the amenities of larger hotels, including a large rooftop pool, rooms with great views, and a complimentary breakfast. It is within walking distance of trendy Uruguay Street.
  • Less pricey is the Holiday Inn Panama City Distrito Financiero , which offers quality rooms, a small rooftop pool, and an expansive breakfast buffet included in the room rate. The Iglesia Del Carmen subway is a short walk away, as is the Soho shopping mall.

Budget Hotels:

  • Budget travelers will be pleased to find a good assortment of cheap hotels in good locations in Panama City. The uniquely named Best Western Plus Panama Zen Hotel will provide some peace and tranquility for your wallet. The hotel has rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and the best rooftop pool in the budget category. The hotel is located right by the metro station on Via Espana, and a variety of shops and restaurants are within walking distance.
  • The Hampton by Hilton is well located near the Financial District and has very comfortable rooms, the same quality as you'd find in North America, for a fraction of the cost. The hotel has a very small rooftop pool.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Exploring Panama : If you are planning to see more of the country, be sure to have a read through our article: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Panama . This is a guide to the main highlights, from the beaches to the mountains and all the best stops along the way.

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Colombia and Costa Rica : These two neighboring countries are well worth taking the time to visit. Over the last decade, Colombia has developed into a popular tourist destination for everyone from backpackers to luxury travelers. The highlight for many travelers is the beautiful restored colonial city of Cartagena . To the north of Panama, Costa Rica offers a wealth of natural attractions, from volcanos and cloud forests to beaches and wildlife.

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Top attractions in Panama

Colonial buildings in Casco Viejo (Old Town) of Panama City. Photo: Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock

Boasting cloud-forested highlands, idyllic palm-topped islands, vibrant indigenous cultures and riotous festivals, there are is no shortage of things to do in Panama. Famous Panama landmarks, including the Panama Canal and Central America’s most ebullient capital city – Panama City – top most travellers’ lists, but there’s also a surprising amount of variety for such a small country. You’ll find plenty of places to visit in Panama that are wild and wonderful, and well off the beaten track.

Famous tourist attractions in Panama

1. casco viejo.

Hip rooftop bars and chic restaurants dot leafy plazas, ancient churches and stately colonial buildings in Panama City’s historic center, making up one of Panama’s major points of interest.  Visitors to the Panamanian capital naturally head first for colonial Casco Viejo – established in 1673 by the Spanish, two years after the sacking of the original settlement, Panama Viejo, by Welsh buccaneer Henry Morgan. Home to most of the capital’s historical sights, the area offers classy boutique accommodations, casual cafés and fine-dining, sprinkled among ancient churches and restored mansions, as well as a growing trendy nightlife scene. The ruins of Panama Viejo, the first European city to be founded on the Pacific coast of the Americas, some 8km (5 miles) northeast of the center, constitute the only other significant remains from the conquest era. Places to visit in Casco Viejo include the Iglesia de la Merced, the Plaza de Catedral and the Palacio Presidencial, where exploration is best carried out on foot.

2. San Lorenzo colonial fort

The ruined colonial fort of San Lorenzo is a Panama landmark an impressive reminder of the defences the conquistadors needed to protect their plundered treasure from marauding pirates. It perches high on a rocky promontory, standing guard over the mouth of the Río Chagres. These relatively well-preserved ruins bear witness to its importance during Spanish colonial times. Its spectacular location, commanding views of both the brooding river and the glistening Caribbean, coupled with its isolation and forest surroundings, make it a far more evocative place than the more accessible and more visited Portobelo fort, and if you avoid the cruise ship tour groups – especially midweek in the rainy season, you can have the place to yourself. The fort is set within the 120-sq-km (46-sq-mile) Área Protegida San Lorenzo, amid a swathe of secondary forest and swampland, which provide excellent birdwatching. Some 435 species have been recorded, some of which can be spotted along the short trails in the forest off the access road to the fort.

Construction of the original sea-level earth-and-wood fort began in 1595 to protect loot-laden Spanish boats sailing down the Chagres to Portobelo from attack by foreign vessels. Though Francis Drake failed to take the place in 1596, it fell to one of Henry Morgan’s privateers in 1670, enabling Morgan and his band to pass unhindered up the river and destroy Panama City. The fort was rebuilt in coral stone in the 1680s in its present cliff-top location, where it was eventually ruined in 1740 by the British. The attack was apparently in revenge for the Spanish coastguards’ wounding of a British merchant captain named Robert Jenkins, in what became known rather farcically as the War of Jenkins’ Ear. Although San Lorenzo was rebuilt and further strengthened, the fortifications were never really tested again, though they were used as part of the US military defenses in World War II – note the still visible anti-aircraft platform next to the tower. To explore the fort, cross over the drawbridge (not the original one) and continue through the smart, squat stone-and-brick guardhouse, the main entrance to the fort.

the visitor panama tourist attractions

3. The Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is undoubtedly the king of Panama’s tourist attractions. Running 77km (48 miles) across the isthmus between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, straddling the provinces of Panama and Colón, the Panama Canal is a gargantuan engineering feat and a triumph of human endeavor and sacrifice – a truly awe-inspiring sight and justifiably the country’s top-visited sight. What’s more, it can easily be explored on an excursion from Panama City. Uniquely, it carves its way through pristine rainforest, and across a vast artificial lake. The four national parks of Soberanía, Camino de Cruces, Chagres, and Portobelo, formed in order to protect the Canal’s watershed, all offer the opportunity to walk along the partially cobbled remnants of the historic Camino de Cruces and the Camino Real. Of the four, Parque Nacional Soberanía is the most accessible, containing some excellent hikes and opportunities for birdwatching in tropical rainforest, while Isla Barro Colorado – plum in the middle of Canal – is home to the world-renowned Smithsonian Institute. Both support an exceptional degree of biodiversity and are easy day-trips from the capital. Scattered round the fringes of Lago Gatún and along the banks of the Río Chagres are various Emberá communities which welcome visitors.

the visitor panama tourist attractions

4. Partying in the Azuero

From the seriously hedonistic Carnavales to the religious celebrations of Corpus Christi or small-town patronales, it’s hard to beat the revelry of the Azuero Peninsula. Expect flamboyant costumes and exuberant music and dancing washed down with lashings of seco , the country’s potent spirit. The festivities are hybrid affairs: solemn religious ceremonies combine with pagan rituals and hedonistic excess; traditional folk groups are followed by DJs blasting out reggaeton, bachata and salsa; and stylized Andalusian-inspired dances such as the tamborito (Panama’s national dance) and punto are imbued with African and pre-Columbian rhythms using drums, gourds and seed pods. More than 500 festivals are held here annually. Some to look out for include the Desfile de las Mil Polleras in January, a tourist-focused parade of various types of Panamanian polleras in Las Tablas; Carnaval in February (the country’s most lavish celebration is again held in Las Tablas); Patronales de San Juan, five days of costumed fun in June with diablicos sucios , folk dancing, fireworks and the patron saint paraded from the beach in Chitré; and the Festival de Manito in August in Ocú.

5. Parque Nacional Soberanía

Only a short hop from Panama City, this wildlife paradise has almost guaranteed sightings of toucans, parrots, sloths, and monkeys, and is without a doubt one of the top tourist attractions in Panama. Stretching north and west from the park office, it hugs the Canal and encircles Gamboa, covering more than 190 sq km (73 sq miles). It encompasses a stretch of the majestic Río Chagres, the Canal’s lifeblood, which you can explore by boat or kayak; there are also several well-maintained trails either side of Gamboa, including a stretch of the historic Camino de Cruces and a world-renowned birding hot spot, the Camino del Oleoducto. The trails are not particularly close to each other or the park office, however, making the logistics difficult unless you have your own transportation, or you go as part of a tour. Several Panama City agencies offer hikes to the Camino de Cruces and the Sendero del Oleoducto, but you can hire a ranger from the park office as a guide if one is available – a much cheaper option, and one which helps supplement their low income. However, they are unlikely to speak any English.

the visitor panama tourist attractions

6. Bocas del Toro

A popular Caribbean destination and one of Panama's best places to visit, Bocas offers a chilled party scene, with great drinking, dining, and dancing, as well as forested islands, water sports and beaches galore. The Caribbean archipelago of Bocas del Toro (‘Mouths of the Bull’), by the Costa Rican border, is one of the most beautiful areas in Panama. It’s also one of the most isolated – the mainland portion of the province is connected to the rest of Panama by a single spectacular road that carves its way over the continental divide, often blocked by landslides during the heaviest rains, while the island chain requires a boat ride to reach. For most people, Bocas means the tropical islands – Isla Colón and Bastimentos, in particular – which attract more visitors than anywhere else outside Panama City and the Canal. They offer opportunities for surfing or relaxing on pristine beaches, and snorkelling and diving among coral reefs in a maze of tangled mangroves and undisturbed rainforest. 

Some of this natural paradise lies inside Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos. Some visitors, however, come for the nightlife: cocktails, waterside dining, and places to dance until dawn. Yet the archipelago only constitutes a small percentage of the province, which lost a large chunk of land to the Comarca Ngäbe-Buglé in the east when it was formed in 1997. The lowlands of the mainland, often dismissed as an endless stream of banana plantations, also offer a couple of notable Panama attractions. The country’s banana capital and the province’s main commercial center, Changuinola, provides access to the marvelous Humedales de San San Pond Sak, the country’s main refuge for the manatee and an important beach for nesting marine turtles. Inland, on the banks of the picturesque Río Teribe, a stay with the Naso, one of the less-well known indigenous peoples, provides an opportunity for intercultural exchange in a stunning natural setting, with the potential to head farther upriver into the inaccessible but spectacular Talamanca mountain range; its lofty peaks form the backbone of the vast Parque Internacional La Amistad, which boasts an awe-inspiring array of wildlife.

7. Parque Nacional Darién

It’s no easy matter to get here, but the rugged mountains, towering rainforest canopy, and immense biodiversity in the country’s largest wilderness area – and Unesco World Heritage Site – is worth the effort. At 5,790 sq km (2,235 sq miles), Parque Nacional Darién is the most expansive protected area in Central America. Created in 1972, it outranks all of Panama’s national parks in both size and reputation. Yet it’s one of the least-visited protected areas in the country since reaching the park requires considerable organisation. That said, the awe-inspiring greenery, laced with rivers and waterfalls and rich in wildlife, makes the effort well worth the time and money, providing a truly magical experience. Now that hiking across the Darién Gap has been consigned to history – though various specialty operators market their multi-day jungle adventures as such – visiting the national park these days means hiring a guide (who will help sort out the paperwork) and staying at the only permanent camp: Mi Ambiente’s bunkhouse at Rancho Frío, reached via El Real.

the visitor panama tourist attractions

8. Guna Yala

The Comarca Guna Yala stretches along the Caribbean coast, home to a host of palm-topped islands and the indigenous Guna, who have fiercely defended their mores and lifestyle against outsiders for centuries. Visiting a Guna community has to be among the top things to do in Panama. The Guna (pronounced ‘Guna’ or ‘Kuna’, depending upon the dialect) – or the Dule (pronounced ‘Dule’ or ‘Tule’), as they call themselves – are Panama’s highest-profile indigenous people. They inhabit a vast semi-autonomous region (or comarca ) along the eastern Caribbean coast, which stretches some 375km (233 miles) from the Golfo de San Blas to Puerto Obaldía and comprises almost 400 islands and a swathe of land that extends to the peaks of the Serranías de San Blas and the Darién. Around 33,000 Guna live within the Comarca de Guna Yala, with a further 47,000 predominantly spread among two smaller inland comarcas in eastern Panama and Panama City, though populations are fairly fluid given the constant to-ing and fro-ing between the capital and the comarcas . For the most part, people are packed onto a chain of 36 low-lying coral outcrops close to the shore, with 11 communities established on the coast and two farther inland. 

In recent years, frequent flooding caused by rising sea levels has encouraged some island-based families to relocate to the mainland. Plans are afoot for entire communities to join them over the coming years, as it becomes increasingly likely that their homes will become permanently submerged. There are basically two types of islands of interest to tourists. First, are near-deserted islands, topped with coconut palms and surrounded by white-sand beaches that shelve into turquoise waters, where coral reefs provide great opportunities for snorkeling (diving is prohibited across the comarca ). The waters of the western archipelago, in particular, are dotted with these pristine islets, which are predominantly distinguished by their accommodations, ranging from simple cane cabañas with a simple home-made bed, to slightly more comfortable lodges, all owned by families or communities from the more densely populated village-islands. The villages, in contrast, are overcrowded coral outcrops chock-full of cane-and-thatch buildings interspersed with cement structures, schools, medical centers and the occasional shop. Very rarely do they have a beach. Women are often dressed in their striking traditional attire and cannot help but attract your attention.

  

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The Must-Visit Attractions in Panama City, Panama

Enjoy the view of Panama City from Metropolitan Natural Park

An old Spanish colonial center, a vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches and islands on the doorstep, as well as wild rainforests only a short drive away – the capital of Panama has plenty to keep you busy besides the canal. Here are the must-see attractions in Panama City to help you navigate your stopover or longer stay.

1. the canal.

Architectural Landmark

Panama, Panama Canal, Gaillard cut & Centennial bridge

Top of the list is the Panama Canal – a 48mi (77km) artificial waterway connecting the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, which can be seen from the Miraflores Visitor’s Center. Despite plans dating back to the 16th century, the canal wasn’t constructed until 1914 – resulting in the annexation of the region by the United States from Colombia and the eventual creation of the country of Panama itself. Some 14,000 ships transit the canal every year.

2. Casco Viejo

Plaza de la Independencia, Plaza Mayor or Plaza Catedral in Casco Viejo in Panama City

The terracotta roofs, café-bars and bell towers of the old quarter huddle over the sea in the city’s south. Built in the middle of the 17th century, after the abandonment of the original settlement, it was reputedly set alight by Governor Don Juan Pérez de Guzmán in 1671 (to save Panama from pirate plunder), rebuilt, left to become a slum and finally gentrified in the late 20th century. It is now part of the Historic District of Panama Unesco World Heritage site.

3. The Biomuseo

The colourful Biomuseo (The Biodiversity Museum) (Panama Bridge of Life), Panama City, Panama, Central America

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5. El Tornillo

Building, Architectural Landmark

Panama City,Panam - march 2018: The famous F&F Tower, office building and skyline of Panama City, Panama

Like a giant verdigris screw jutting from the heart of the Financial District, topped with a vicious-looking spike, the 797ft (243m) F&F Tower (aka El Tornillo or the screw), is the most striking skyscraper in Panama. It was built from reinforced concrete and stacked stories of green sheet-glass in 2011 in the Calle 50 neighborhood. The building was designed by the local firm Pinzón Lozano & Associates – the creative force behind many of the vertiginous business towers in Panama City.

6. Soberania National Park

Natural Feature, Park

The Chagres River and the Soberania National Park in the distance

Ultra-modern and resolutely urban Downtown Panama City may be, but it’s only 45 minutes from some genuine wilderness: Soberania National Park, which is protecting some 55,000 acres (22,257ha) of steamy rainforest ribboned with rivers. The park is particularly popular among birdwatchers, and it’s possible to see more than 400 species, including parrots and eagles, along the easy-to-access Pipeline Road – remarkable when you consider that’s just under half the number of bird species found in the whole of Costa Rica. There are still more to be seen on the deeper jungle trails.

7. The Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

Panama City Cathedral iin a sunny day and Indipendence square. Image shot 02/2019. Exact date unknown.

8. Iglesia del Carmen

Panama City - Catholic church Our Lady of Carmen - Iglesia Nuestra Senora del Carmen

9. Einstein's Head

On January 4, 1933, the world’s most famous physicist and his wife paid a visit to Panama en route to California. They bought souvenirs for their children at the markets, rode in a horse-drawn carriage in Colón and crossed the Panama Canal in the steamship Belgenland. Cabeza de Einstein (Einstein’s Head) is a giant bust positioned on a traffic island amid whirling vehicles on Via Argentina (in the vibrant central neighborhood of El Cangrejo). Measuring about 10ft by 10ft (3m by 3m), it was sculpted by Carlos Arboleda, one of Panama’s most renowned artists, for a long-gone Jewish community and inaugurated in 1968 to commemorate the event.

10. The Miraflores Locks

Panama Canal at Miraflores Locks - Panama City, Panama

11. The City Center

Panama City ocean promenade, Cinta Costera Balboa avenue / sidewalk with skyline backgound, Panama City_2B9YGBD

While the Casco Viejo oozes sleepy colonial charm, Downtown Panama City is upbeat, urban and modern-metropolitan. There’s nowhere better to people-watch than the main pedestrian causeway, just off the Avenida Central, where businessmen in suits rub shoulders with street hawkers and performers. Experience also the Cinta Costera, a long waterfront park against a cityscape of skyscrapers. It’s busy with people playing volleyball and football or gathered, ice-creams in hand, to watch the golden sunset.

12. Gamboa Rainforest Resort

Resort, Hotel

Butterfly Farm at the Gamboa Rainforest Resort, Soberania National Park, Panama

13. Punta Culebra

Natural Feature

Punta Culebra, Smithsonian Research Center, Panama City, Panama.

On one of the Amador islands, connected by a causeway to Downtown Panama City, the Punta Culebra Nature Center is an educational project run by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. There are short forest trails, a small beach, touch tanks and a little zoo with rehabilitated sea turtles. Spend time with the numerous displays that profile Panama’s biodiversity, as well as the different environments and ecosystems in the country and Central and South America as a whole.

14. Ciudad del Saber

Ciudad del Saber front view - City of knowledge Panama

Immediately east of the Miraflores Locks, the Ciudad del Saber (City of Knowledge) is a former US military base converted by the Panamanian government into a gated residential neighborhood and Business District. This is where a number of key tech companies, UN bodies and academic organizations have their headquarters. With sports amenities in a big public park, it’s a popular residential area for migrants, and one of the best places to watch the opening and closing of the Miraflores Locks.

15. The Bridge of the Americas

Architectural Landmark, Bridge

PANAMA CITY, Panama--A view of the Bridge of the Americas, spanning the Panama Canal, from the top of Ancon Hill. Ancon Hill is only 654-feet high but commands an impressive view out over the new and old sections of Panama City. With views out over both t

The Puente de las Americas stretches across the Panama Canal, connecting Panama City by road with the rest of the country. The views over the locks to the Pacific are impressive, and, at the western end, there’s a lookout. Stop here a while to take a photo and pay your respects at the poignant Chinese Memorial monument. It was built to commemorate the back-breaking work of 700 or so Chinese migrant laborers, many of whom lost their lives in the construction of the 1850s Panama Railroad.

16. Metropolitan Natural Park

Three-toed Sloth, Bradypus variegatus, in the 265 hectares rainforest Metropolitan park, Panama City, Republic of Panama.

17. Fish Market, Panama City

PANAMA CITY, Panama--The buzzing Mercado de Mariscos (Seafood Market) on the waterfront next to Casco Viejo in Panama City. In one section, vendors sell fresh seafood of all types, while next to it are a series of outdoor seafood restaurants where ceviche

Whether you are looking to have a cheap and delicious plate of ceviche, to buy fresh seafood directly from the fishermen or simply to people-watch, the Mercado de Mariscos is an essential port of call – especially in the early mornings around 6am, when the catches of the day are brought in from the Pacific; or at lunchtime, when local Panamanians from all walks of life flock here to eat and converse.

18. Museum of Contemporary Art

Library, Museum

Visitors run the artistic exhibition on French-Venezuelan artist Carlos Cruz-Diez entitled El Color Haciendose (lit: The color doing itself) at the Contemporary Art Museum (MAC) in Panama City, Panama, 30 July 2019 (issued on 02 August 2019. The hypnoti

19. Cerro Ancón

Park, Natural Feature

View of the Ancon Hill from the Mirador de las Americas, a

The Cerro Ancón (Ancon Hill) is a lush green peak set in tropical forests and is visible from almost every part of Panama City. There are no cars, just running tracks and forest trails leading to a summit planted with the Panamanian flag. From up here, you get impressive city skyline and Panama Bay views. It’s a popular place for a day’s light hiking, and you’re sure to see toucans and capuchin monkeys in the trees along the way.

20. Amador Causeway

Bridge, Architectural Landmark

Amador Causeway Bike Rental Panama City

Essentially, this is a thin strip of land jutting into Panama Bay, connecting Downtown Panama City to the Amador Islands. It was created with the rocks that came from the excavations of the Panama Canal. Recently renovated, it is so much more than the sum of its parts: the area is a favorite free-time destination for both tourists and locals, who rent cycles, have lunch or take a run along the causeway, enjoying great views over the ocean and the city.

Planning a trip to Panama? Read our guide on things tourist should never do in the country.

Martina Gili contributed additional reporting.

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Visit the World-Renowned Panama Canal

Known as the 8th wonder of the modern world, the Panama Canal is a must-see for every Panama visitor. Built to dramatically decrease the travel time for ships between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, over 900,000 vessels and counting have transited through it. At one point in history, the Panama Canal was considered impossible to build but you can now witness this engineering miracle on your next trip. It has 2 visitor centers: Miraflores in Panama City and Agua Clara on the Atlantic where it is possible to see both the ships and the canal. The visitor centers are open all day so you can get up close and personal with the massive passing ships that will dwarf you with their presence.

the visitor panama tourist attractions

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Adventurous, educational.

More Stops Along Panama’s Cultural Heritage Experience

If you’re looking for more activities that celebrate Panama’s diverse culture and unique history, the Cultural Heritage Experience is where you’ll find them.

Route not bookmarked

Try Afro-Antillean Gastronomy in Old Bank and Carenero Island (Bocas Del Toro)

Take a Rum Tour in Pese

Explore Panama’s Natural Wonders in the BioMuseo

Watch the Intricate Craft of Devil Masks Making

Enjoy Panama’s Best Gastronomic Experiences in Casco Antiguo

Let the History of the Mola Take You Back to Ancient Times

Join the Embera Community for a Day in the Gatun River

Dance with the Congo Queen in Portobelo, Colon

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The top ten tourist attractions in Panama

the visitor panama tourist attractions

Panama is a tropical country in Central America that offers a variety of breathtaking and exciting attractions for tourists. From the historic Panama Canal to beautiful beaches, tourists are drawn to this culturally-rich nation. The country boasts an array of activities and things to see, making it an ideal vacation spot for all types of travelers. In this article, we will explore the top ten tourist attractions in Panama and why they should be on your travel list. And on a personal note: Well I live now over 40 years here in Panama and I can only recomend you visit us someday and maybe even more then once as Panama has so mucgh to offer its hard to [plan it all into just one visit! For a dedicated website about Panama please see also PTY4u.com .

Panama Tourist Attractions

Panama is an exciting and vibrant country filled with a rich history and culture. From the sandy beaches of the Caribbean to the tropical rainforest in Darien, Panama has something for everyone. With its diverse landscape, fascinating wildlife, and many historical sites, it’s no wonder that Panama is one of the top tourist destinations in Central America. Here are ten of the best attractions to experience when visiting Panama:

The first must-see attraction is Casco Viejo – Panama City’s historic old town. Filled with colonial buildings from centuries ago, visitors can explore churches, museums, and architectural wonders while learning about the city’s past. Another iconic place to visit is Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal – one of seven such locks along this incredible man-made waterway that connects two oceans.

#1: Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is one of the world’s most iconic waterways. A marvel of engineering and ingenuity, it connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through a series of locks, allowing ships to pass between them. Spanning 80km in length, it is one of the leading tourist attractions in Panama.

Located between Central America and South America, this canal was the brainchild of American architect Philippe-Jean Bunau-Varilla and French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps. Their efforts made possible a passage way that had been dreamed about since colonial times. The canal revolutionized global trade when it opened in 1914 and remains as important today as ever before.. The best place to see the canal is the Miraflores visitors center in Panama City or the visitors center on the Colon side above the new aguas claras locks .

And I quote from canalmuseum.com : By August 15, 1914 the Panama Canal was officially opened by the passing of the SS Ancon. At the time, no single effort in American history had exacted such a price in dollars or in human life. The American expenditures from 1904 to 1914 totaled $352,000,000, far more than the cost of anything built by the United States Government up to that time. Together the French and American expenditures totaled $639,000,000. It took 34 years from the initial effort in 1880 to actually open the Canal in 1914. It is estimated that over 80,000 persons took part in the construction and that over 30,000 lives were lost in both French and American efforts.

#2: Panama City & Casco Viejo

For those looking to explore the beauty and culture of Panama, a visit to Casco Viejo should be at the top of their list. Casco Viejo is an old Spanish colonial town in Panama City that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1673, it was originally known as Panama la Vieja before it was destroyed by pirate raids and earthquakes.

Casco Viejo is home to some of the most stunning architecture and historical sites in the country, including its iconic churches and cathedrals such as San Francisco de Asis Church, Iglesia El Carmen Church, and La Merced Church. Visitors can also explore other locations such as Plaza Herrera Square or take a tour of Palacio de las Garzas or take part in one of many street festivals throughout the year.

Panama City itself has many attractions we recommend you hike along the Cause way and visit the bio diversity museum , visit the canal museum and or the panama viejo, also this city is a paradise for shopping so go for it! There are many shopping malls you cant miss them, also enjoy the great variety of top restaurants and ypou will find from Chienese to Italian, from Argetinian to Indian and from Japanese to Peruvian and more so many flavors its hard to choose where to go.

#3: Isla Taboga

Isla Taboga is a small tropical island located just off the coast of Panama City, and it is widely considered to be one of Panama’s top tourist attractions. Located in the Gulf of Panama, Isla Taboga offers beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, making it a great spot for travelers looking to relax and soak up some sun. Visitors can get there by ferry from Panama City or by plane from other cities in the country.

Once on the island, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, diving, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking and even bird-watching. With its lush jungles and rainforests filled with an abundance of wildlife, hikers will have plenty to explore. The beaches are also popular spots for sunbathing or freshwater swimming in crystal clear waters.

Paul Gauguin in Taboga, Having worked for the first (French) attempt to dig a canal from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific, an attempt in which 22,000 workers lost their life, the French painter Paul Gauguin, taken ill, was sent for treatment in Taboga Island, The flower island.

#4: San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are one of the top ten tourist attractions in Panama. Located off the Caribbean coast, these 378 islands and cays offer visitors a paradise-like experience with its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush vegetation. An archipelago belonging to the Kuna Yala indigenous people, this is an ideal destination for nature lovers looking for a remote escape from city life.

Not only does the San Blas Islands provide a stunning natural landscape for exploration but also offers tourists plenty of activities to do such as snorkeling and diving around coral reef formations that are teeming with marine wildlife. The islands are also home to numerous beach bars where you can enjoy drinks while taking in beautiful views of nearby islands or relax on sun loungers during sunset.

Here some photos from some of the must see destinations of Panama! Enjoy!

Casco Viejo Panama

#5: Chiriqui Highland, Boquete and Cerro Punta

The top ten tourist attractions in Panama wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Chiriqui Highlands, Boquete and Cerro Punta. Located in western Panama, they are a must-visit destination for any traveler to the country.

The region is known as one of the most beautiful areas of Panama, with its lush rolling hills blanketed in green foliage and majestic mountain peaks towering above them. The region has become a popular destination for eco-tourism due to its rich biodiversity and abundance of wildlife. Visitors can explore the area’s many trails by bike or on foot, take part in bird watching activities, go rafting down the rivers or simply relax amid postcard perfect landscapes. Cerro Punta is a good starting point to find a local guide to show you the Resplendant Quetzal a truly royal treat for any birdwatcher. And talking about birdwatching, Panama has over 940 registered species of birds and these can be found in many beautiful locations some listed here at PTYbirds.com .

Boquete, home every January of the flower and coffee fair, is a stunningly beautiful town located in the Chiriqui Province of Panama. Situated between the majestic Volcan Baru and the Caldera River, Boquete offers a unique combination of breathtaking scenery and wonderful attractions. Those seeking an unforgettable experience will find plenty to explore and enjoy here.

The first on any tourist’s list should be white water rafting down the Caldera River. With class III-IV rapids, this thrilling adventure promises excitement for all levels of rafters. Nature lovers may want to take advantage of hiking trails that traverse through lush forests or maybe even trek up Volcan Baru, whose summit offers spectacular views from both sides of the mountain. For those looking for relaxation, one can simply spend time strolling around downtown Boquete or visit one of its many cafés or restaurants to enjoy delicious local cuisine.

#6: Bocas del Toro Archipelago

The Bocas del Toro Archipelago is a chain of tropical islands off the coast of Panama that are known for their picturesque beauty and adventure-filled activities. These islands, located just north of the border with Costa Rica, provide a perfect escape from city life and offer some of the most stunning views and activities in all of Panama. From crystal-clear waters to lush rainforests and white sand beaches, there is something for everyone on these idyllic islands.

For those looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, diving or snorkeling among the colorful coral reefs is sure to be a highlight. Visitors can also indulge in some aquatic fun by kayaking through mangroves or taking boat tours around Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park where they may even spot dolphins!

#7: Carnival in Las Tablas, Panama

Carnival in Las Tablas, Panama is a must-see for anyone looking to really get immersed in Panamanian culture. Taking place annually during the two weeks leading up to Ash Wednesday, this festival has become one of the most popular attractions in all of Panama. Revelers from around the country join together for processions, parades and dancing throughout the town.

The Carnival tradition began over 150 years ago as a pre-Lenten celebration with roots in Spanish colonial times. During these two weeks, everyone takes part in elaborate masks and costumes while different musical styles ranging from salsa to traditional folk music are played everywhere you look. There are also plenty of food stalls where visitors can sample all sorts of traditional dishes like sancocho de gallina (chicken soup) for example.

#8: Coiba Island National Park

As one of the top ten tourist attractions in Panama, Coiba Island National Park is a must-visit destination for all types of travelers. Located off the Pacific Coast of Veraguas Province, this protected nature reserve and Unesco World Heritage Site offers an array of activities for visitors to explore. From snorkeling in crystal clear waters, to spotting rare species of birds and animals on its jungle trails, there are plenty of opportunities for wildlife lovers to get up close with nature. Make sure your guide shows you the little Grano de Oro Island for a swim or tpo snorchel in its clear blue waters and also a visit to the old abandoned prison on the island is worthwhile.

The park boasts a diversity of ecosystems that includes coral reefs, mangrove swamps and tropical rainforests. It is also home to 39 species endemic to the area, such as the critically endangered scarlet macaw and green sea turtle; making it a great location for eco-tourism.

#9: Embera Indigenous Village

Panama is home to a large number of diverse tourist attractions, but one of the most interesting and unique experiences is visiting an Embera Indigenous Village. Located in the Darien region of Panama, these villages offer visitors a glimpse into traditional Embera life and culture. The Embera people have lived in this area for centuries, and still practice their age-old customs today. Tourists can take part in a variety of activities while visiting an Embera village, such as learning about their traditional way of life from elders, taking part in dances and ceremonies, going on nature treks or simply relaxing with stunning views over the rainforest canopy. A visit to an Embera village offers tourists a chance to connect with local culture and appreciate the beauty that Panama has to offer.

#10 The Pearl Islands

Exploring the Pearl Islands of Panama is one of the top ten tourist attractions in this Central American country. Located off the Pacific Coast, these islands feature lush rainforests, endless beaches, and a rich historical legacy. It is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Panama and a unique cultural heritage. Tourists can explore volcanoes and hike through national parks while also enjoying activities like scuba diving, fishing, kayaking, sailing, and bird watching. Contadora maybe the most famouse island here and a beautiful place to visit.

The Pearl Islands are home to many small villages with traditional thatched roof homes made from local materials. These villages offer visitors a glimpse into Panamanian culture with local foods on offer as well as handmade arts and crafts available for purchase. The islanders are known for their hospitality; welcoming visitors with open arms to share stories about their lives here.

Conclusion: Explore Panama!

Panama is a great place to explore and experience! This article has highlighted the top ten tourist attractions that Panama has to offer. From discovering its history at The Panama Canal to experiencing the beauty of San Blas Islands, there is something for everyone in this Central American country.

Visitors will be amazed by the vibrant culture of Panama City and all the opportunities it provides for those looking to have fun, learn about its culture and heritage, or just simply relax on its beaches. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there’s a unique experience waiting for you in Panama. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, we are confident that your time here will be well spent! So go ahead and explore all the hidden gems that Panama has to offer!

And as Bonus: Surfing in Panama Playa Venado and Santa Catalina

Panama is a diverse country with a variety of attractions for tourists to explore. From its famous Panama Canal, to its stunning tropical rainforests and beautiful beaches, visitors can find something for everyone. As an added bonus, Panama also has some of the best surfing spots in Central America. Playa Venado and Santa Catalina are two of the most popular destinations for surfers looking to ride the waves.

Santa Catalina is located in Veraguas province and offers both beginners and experts an unforgettable experience. Its waters are consistently calm due to its enclosed location between rocky cliffs, making it great for those just starting out or practicing tricks on their boards. Playa Venado is in Azuero the Los Santos Province its a long drive there but you wont regret it. Even if you dont surf thats a beautiful corner of Panama.

Plus there is so much more to see and discover : El Valle de Anton, Pedasi, The Rainforest discovery center in Gamboa, The Summit Garden Zoo with the Harpy Eagle named Panama, The Beaches from Punta Chame to Coronado and Santa Clara, a train ride from Panama to Colon along the Panama Canal, Portobello and Isla Grande, Fuerte San Lorenzo, Santa Fe de Veraguas, and and and and so many more beautiful places its hard to stop writing here. But well again please come back there is more to see!!! See also these pages here for some travel videos from Panama and here for some travel videos from Panama City .

Please bookmark us now press: ctrl+d and visit again soon for more fascinating travel destinations!

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Green Global Travel

World's largest independently owned Ecotourism / Green Travel / Sustainable Travel / Animal & Wildlife Conservation site. We share transformative Responsible Travel, Sustainable Living & Going Green Tips that make a positive impact.

Top 5 Panama Tourist Attractions for Nature Lovers

Best Western Caribbean Islands - San Blas Islands, Panama by lapping from Pixabay

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Panama is a Nature Lover’s dream with nearly 1000 species of birds , several endangered species, and many cool & weird animals that are only seen in a few other places in the world.   

There are also volcanoes, secluded Caribbean islands, and indigenous populations.

Here are our picks for the Top 5 Panama Tourist Attractions for eco activities and eco-adventures.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Visit in Central Ameria (for Nature Lovers)

Coiba National Park, Panama- Panama Attractions

Panama Tourist Attractions Guide for Nature Lovers

  • Coiba Island National Park
  • Soberania National Park
  • Parara Puru Village and Embera Culture
  • Bocas del Toro
  • Tour the Rainforest Canopy

The Prison Ruins on Coiba Island, Panama - places to visit in Panama

1. Coiba Island National Park

Referred to by some as “the new Galapagos Islands ,” the 1,053 sq. mile Coiba Island National Park remains unspoiled thanks to the fact that the island was home to a penal colony from 1919 to 2004 and requires permission from the National Environment Authority (ANAM) to visit.

The largest island in Central America, about 75% of Coiba is virgin tropical forest , while 80% of the park is oceanic, filled with cool and weird ocean animals such as whales, bottle-nosed dolphins, marine turtles and rare tropical fish.

Located 50 minutes by plane or 10 hours by car from Panama City, this ecotourism haven is definitely an off the beaten path Panama tourist attraction, but well worth the visit.

READ MORE: 10 Latin America Ecotourism Adventures (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

Crested Eagle in Panama

2. Soberania National Park

Established in 1980 and located 25km from Panama City along the eastern side of the Canal, Soberania National Park covers over 19,000 hectares of rainforest.

Here, wildlife enthusiasts will find mammals such as jaguar and white-tailed deer as well as reptiles like the warty snake.

But the park is best known for a trail called the Pipeline Road, on which the Audubon Society organized a world record census that recorded 525 species of birds in just one day back in 1996.

From the endangered crested eagle and the spectacular rofous-ventaul to the ground-cuckoo, it’s a birdwatcher’s dream come true.

READ MORE:  25 Beautiful Birds in the Amazon Rainforest

Embera Puru Village Panama

3. Parara Puru Village and Embera Culture

Until the 1990s, most of Panama’s Embera Indians lived in an extremely remote section of the Darien jungle.

Under the leadership of chief Antonio Tocamo, several families migrated to the banks of the Chagres River in Chagres National Park to establish Parara Puru , a village devoted to demonstrating traditional Embera culture .

The tribe welcomes visitors (who arrive via motorized dugout canoes ) with celebratory song and dance, followed by an informal discussion of the Embera way of life and a brief nature hike.

Shopping for handmade wood carvings and palm leave baskets is a must!

READ MORE: 40 Green Travel Tips (The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel)

Things to do in Panama Central America

4. Bocas del Toro

Located in western Panama about 40km from the Costa Rica border, the islands of Bocas del Toro offer the country’s best Caribbean experience.

Surfers love the waves off Colon and Bastimentos Islands, while snorkelers and scuba divers flock to the coral reefs in Admiral Bay and Bastimentos Island National Marine Park, whose mangrove islets feature crystalline waters and an otherworldly underwater forest.

Hiking, birdwatching and observing the nesting of marine turtles are other popular pastimes, while San Cristobal and Bastimentos Island feature small communities of Ngobe Indians.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Caribbeans Islands to Visit (If You Love Nature & Hate Crowds)

Iguana at Mawamba Lodge, Tortuguero

5. Tour the Rainforest Canopy

Located on the banks of the Chagres River and Panama Canal, Gamboa Rainforest Resort is as well known for its eco-adventures as it is for its luxury accommodations.

It’s also home to the country’s only aerial tram, one of the most unique Panama attractions.

The aerial tram takes guests on a 1.2km tour of the Soberania National Park rainforest canopy where friendly guides point out the area’s abundant flora and fauna during the 20-minute ascent to the crest of a hill.

At the top, visitors can climb the Observation tower for a spectacular view of the Panama Canal, the Emberá Indian Village and the quaint town of Gamboa.   –by Bret Love

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Tourism Teacher

Tourism in Panama

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Tourism in Panama is big business. But why is this industry so important and how should it be best managed? Read on to find out…

Geography of Panama

The tourism industry in panama, statistics about tourism in panama, tourist attractions in panama, types of tourism in panama, impacts of tourism in panama, faqs- tourism in panama, to conclude: tourism in panama.

Panama, bridging Central and South America, plays a pivotal role in the tourism tapestry of the region. This article examines the intricacies of Panama’s tourism sector, highlighting its contributions and the multifaceted challenges it faces. Our exploration seeks to offer a thorough understanding of the dynamics that shape tourism in this strategic isthmus nation.

Tourism in Panama 

Panama is a country located in Central America, bordered by Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the southeast. Here’s an overview of the geography of Panama:

  • Location and Area: Panama is situated in the narrowest part of the Central American isthmus, connecting North and South America. It covers an area of approximately 75,417 square kilometers (29,119 square miles).
  • Topography: Panama’s landscape is diverse and characterized by rugged mountains, coastal plains, and tropical rainforests. The country is bisected by the Panama Canal, a vital waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
  • Mountains: The country is dominated by two mountain ranges: the Central Range (Cordillera Central) and the San Blas Range (Serranía de San Blas). The highest peak is Volcán Barú, standing at 3,474 meters (11,398 feet) above sea level. These mountain ranges provide scenic views, opportunities for hiking, and are home to diverse flora and fauna.
  • Coasts and Islands: Panama has a coastline stretching over 2,490 kilometers (1,550 miles) along the Caribbean Sea to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. The coasts are lined with beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. The country also boasts several archipelagos, including the San Blas Islands and the Pearl Islands, offering pristine tropical islands for exploration and leisure activities.
  • Rainforests and Biodiversity: Panama is known for its rich biodiversity, with vast areas covered by dense rainforests. These tropical rainforests are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including jaguars, sloths, monkeys, and a diverse range of bird species. National parks and reserves, such as Soberanía National Park and Darien National Park, protect and showcase this incredible natural heritage.
  • The Panama Canal: The Panama Canal is a remarkable feat of engineering and a major geographic feature of the country. It is a 77-kilometer (48-mile) ship canal that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, enabling international maritime trade and serving as a vital economic artery for global shipping.
  • Rivers and Lakes: Panama has several rivers and lakes that contribute to its diverse ecosystem. The Chagres River, for example, plays a crucial role in maintaining the water levels of the Panama Canal. Lake Gatun, created as part of the Panama Canal construction, is one of the largest artificial lakes in the world and provides hydroelectric power and a habitat for various wildlife species.
  • Climate: Panama has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country experiences a wet and dry season. The wet season typically lasts from May to November, with heavier rainfall, while the dry season occurs from December to April, characterized by sunny weather and less precipitation.
  • Biodiversity Hotspot: Due to its diverse ecosystems, Panama is considered a biodiversity hotspot, home to a vast array of plant and animal species. The country’s unique geographical position, connecting two continents and two oceans, contributes to its exceptional biodiversity.
  • Ecotourism and Outdoor Activities: Panama’s geography provides ample opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore rainforests, hike in national parks, dive in coral reefs, spot wildlife, enjoy water sports, and experience cultural heritage in vibrant cities like Panama City and Casco Viejo.

With its stunning natural landscapes, biodiversity, and the iconic Panama Canal, the geography of Panama offers a remarkable blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences for travelers.

Tourism in Panama 

The tourism industry in Panama is a vibrant and growing sector that offers a wide range of attractions and experiences for visitors. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a mix of cultural influences, Panama has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Panama is renowned for its natural beauty, with diverse ecosystems that include pristine rainforests, cloud forests, tropical islands, and coral reefs. The country is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including jaguars, sloths, monkeys, and exotic bird species. This natural wealth attracts nature enthusiasts, ecotourists, and adventure seekers.

One of the country’s most iconic attractions is the Panama Canal. The canal is not only an engineering marvel but also a major tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the passage of massive cargo ships through the locks. The Miraflores Visitors Center in Panama City provides a fascinating educational experience, with exhibits and observation decks overlooking the canal.

Panama’s cultural heritage is a blend of indigenous, European, African, and Caribbean influences. The country has a rich history, evident in its colonial architecture, traditional festivals, and indigenous communities. The historic district of Casco Viejo in Panama City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring beautifully restored buildings, charming streets, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Panama boasts stunning beaches along both its Caribbean and Pacific coasts. From the idyllic San Blas Islands with their white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters to the Bocas del Toro archipelago, there are numerous coastal destinations offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and water sports.

Panama is an excellent destination for adventure enthusiasts. The diverse geography provides a variety of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, zip-lining, rafting, kayaking, and canopy tours. The Chiriquí Highlands, Boquete, and the Soberanía National Park are popular adventure hubs.

With its vast rainforests, protected national parks, and ecological reserves, Panama offers abundant opportunities for eco-tourism. Visitors can explore untouched wilderness, hike nature trails, go birdwatching, spot unique wildlife, and immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the country.

Panama is home to several indigenous communities, each with its own distinct traditions, languages, and crafts. Visitors can engage in cultural exchanges, visit indigenous villages, learn about traditional customs, and purchase handcrafted souvenirs directly from the artisans.

Panama City, the capital, offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic neighborhoods. The city boasts a vibrant nightlife, gourmet dining, shopping centers, and museums, making it an appealing destination for city lovers.

Panama has emerged as a destination for medical tourism, with modern medical facilities, well-trained healthcare professionals, and competitive prices for a range of medical procedures. Many visitors combine medical treatments with leisure activities or recovery in Panama’s beautiful surroundings.

Panama is a popular stop for cruise ships, thanks to its strategic location on the route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Cruise passengers have the opportunity to explore the Panama Canal, visit Panama City, and enjoy excursions to nearby attractions.

Tourism in Panama 

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Panama, lets take a look at some of the key statistics showing the scale of the industry:

  • In 2019, Panama welcomed a record-breaking 2.48 million international visitors, marking a significant increase from previous years.
  • The tourism sector contributed approximately 10% to Panama’s GDP in 2019.
  • The average length of stay for international visitors in Panama is around 8 days.
  • Cruise tourism is a significant component of Panama’s tourism industry, with over 250 cruise ships visiting the country each year.
  • The Panama Canal is a major attraction, with around 1 million visitors annually to the Miraflores Visitors Center and other canal-related sites.
  • The majority of international visitors to Panama come from the United States, followed by Colombia, Canada, Costa Rica, and European countries.
  • Panama City, the capital, is the most popular destination for international tourists, accounting for a significant portion of visitor arrivals.
  • Eco-tourism and adventure tourism are growing segments of Panama’s tourism industry, attracting visitors interested in exploring the country’s natural wonders and engaging in outdoor activities.
  • The San Blas Islands, an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea, are among the most visited attractions in Panama, known for their pristine beaches and indigenous culture.
  • Panama has seen an increase in medical tourism, with visitors coming for various medical procedures, including dental work, cosmetic surgery, and wellness retreats.

Tourism in Panama 

Panama offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to various interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Panama:

  • Panama Canal: The Panama Canal is undoubtedly one of the country’s top attractions. Visitors can witness the marvel of engineering and learn about the history and significance of this famous waterway at the Miraflores Visitors Center or take a partial or full transit tour to experience the canal up close.
  • Casco Viejo: Located in Panama City, Casco Viejo is the historic district and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It features well-preserved colonial architecture, charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, trendy restaurants, bars, art galleries, and boutique shops.
  • San Blas Islands: The San Blas Islands, located on Panama’s Caribbean coast, are a stunning archipelago known for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. This paradise is home to the indigenous Guna Yala community, offering visitors the chance to experience their unique culture and way of life.
  • Bocas del Toro: Situated in the northwest Caribbean Sea, Bocas del Toro is a popular beach destination with a laid-back and bohemian vibe. The archipelago consists of several islands, offering beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, excellent snorkeling and diving spots, and opportunities for water sports and wildlife encounters.
  • Gamboa Rainforest: Located near the Panama Canal, the Gamboa Rainforest is a verdant paradise that provides a close encounter with nature. Visitors can explore the rainforest through canopy tours, boat rides on the Chagres River, and guided nature hikes, allowing them to spot wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds.
  • Coiba National Park: Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located in the Pacific Ocean and is renowned for its biodiversity and stunning marine ecosystems. It offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and boat tours, allowing visitors to explore pristine coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and maybe even spot whales or dolphins.
  • Pearl Islands: The Pearl Islands, situated in the Gulf of Panama, are a group of picturesque islands known for their pristine beaches, clear waters, and abundance of marine life. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, or take boat tours to explore the islands’ natural beauty.
  • Volcán Barú: Rising to an elevation of 3,474 meters (11,398 feet), Volcán Barú is Panama’s highest peak and a popular destination for hiking and nature enthusiasts. The challenging hike rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views of both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean on a clear day.
  • El Valle de Antón: Nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano, El Valle de Antón is a picturesque town known for its cool climate, natural attractions, and charming market. Visitors can explore beautiful waterfalls, visit the El Níspero Zoo and Botanical Garden, hike to La India Dormida mountain, or relax in hot springs.
  • Panama Viejo: Panama Viejo is the ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519. The site offers a glimpse into the country’s colonial past, with well-preserved archaeological remains, including the cathedral tower and the stone ruins of old buildings.

These are just a few of the many attractions Panama has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, beaches, or cultural experiences, Panama provides a diverse range of options to explore and enjoy.

Tourism in Panama 

Panama offers a variety of tourism experiences catering to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types of tourism in Panama:

  • Cultural Tourism in Panama: Cultural tourism is a significant draw for visitors to Panama. Exploring the historic districts of Panama City, such as Casco Viejo, allows tourists to immerse themselves in the country’s rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can discover museums, art galleries, traditional markets, and witness cultural festivals and events.
  • Nature and Ecotourism in Panama: Panama is known for its incredible biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Nature enthusiasts and ecotourists can explore national parks, rainforests, and cloud forests, such as Soberanía National Park and Darien National Park. Wildlife spotting, birdwatching, hiking, and nature photography are popular activities in these pristine environments.
  • Beach and Coastal Tourism in Panama: With its two coastlines along the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Panama offers beautiful beaches and coastal attractions. Bocas del Toro, San Blas Islands, and the Pearl Islands are famous for their idyllic beaches, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports.
  • Adventure Tourism in Panama: Panama’s diverse geography provides ample opportunities for adventure tourism. Activities such as zip-lining through rainforests, white-water rafting in rivers like the Chiriquí or Chagres, hiking to volcanoes, and exploring caves and underground rivers attract adventure seekers.
  • Canal Tourism in Panama: The Panama Canal is not only an engineering marvel but also a major tourist attraction. Visitors can learn about the history and operation of the canal at the Miraflores Visitors Center or take canal tours to experience the locks and watch ships pass through.

There are several impacts of tourism in Panama, lets take a look at some of the most prominent:

Economic impacts of tourism in Panama: Tourism in Panama has steadily emerged as one of the country’s crucial economic drivers. The revenue generated from foreign tourists has significantly contributed to the national GDP. Tourist spending benefits various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and local businesses. Additionally, the Panama Canal, a marvel of engineering, serves not just as a shipping route but as a significant tourist attraction, supplementing the country’s income.

Sociocultural impacts of tourism in Panama: The influx of tourists to Panama has led to a cultural exchange that has been both enriching and challenging. On one hand, tourists are introduced to Panama’s rich traditions, indigenous communities, and festivals, leading to a better understanding and appreciation of Panamanian culture. However, there’s also the risk of cultural commodification, where traditions may be altered for tourist consumption. It’s vital that Panama balances authenticity with tourism demands.

Environmental impacts of tourism in Panama: Panama, with its pristine beaches, rainforests, and unique biodiversity, is an ecological gem. Tourism promotes conservation efforts, especially in areas like the Bocas del Toro archipelago and the Darien National Park. However, increased tourism in Panama, if not managed sustainably, can also exert pressure on these delicate ecosystems. Issues like waste management, water scarcity, and habitat disruption need constant monitoring to ensure that tourism remains eco-friendly.

Infrastructure and development impact s of tourism in Panama The surge in tourism in Panama has catalysed infrastructural developments. There’s been an uptick in hotel constructions, improved roads, and enhanced public transport catering to tourists. While this development has modernised many areas, there’s a risk of over-commercialisation. Some regions might face the challenges of overcrowding, which could detract from the visitor experience and place stress on local resources.

In conclusion, while tourism in Panama offers immense potential for economic growth and societal enrichment, careful and sustainable management is crucial. Balancing the demands of tourism in Panama with the needs of the local environment and culture is paramount to ensure a harmonious and sustainable relationship.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Panama, lets answer some of the main questions on this topic:

How important is tourism for Panama’s economy? Tourism is one of the significant contributors to Panama’s economy, playing a crucial role in its GDP. It benefits various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and local businesses.

What is the main attraction for tourists in Panama? The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel, is a top attraction. However, Panama also boasts pristine beaches, rainforests, historical sites, and unique biodiversity that attract tourists.

Is Panama a year-round destination? Yes, Panama can be visited throughout the year. However, the dry season, from December to April, is often considered the best time for tourists to explore without the hindrance of heavy rainfall.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Panama? Yes, Panama is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Darién National Park and the historic district of Panamá, known as Casco Viejo.

How safe is Panama for tourists? While Panama is generally safe for tourists, it’s always essential to take standard safety precautions. Some areas, particularly in larger cities, may have higher crime rates, so staying informed and vigilant is advised.

Can tourists interact with indigenous communities in Panama? Yes, several tours allow tourists to visit and interact with indigenous communities, offering a unique insight into their traditions, lifestyles, and crafts.

What is the official currency used in Panama? While Panama has its currency called the Panamanian Balboa, the US Dollar is also an official currency and is widely accepted throughout the country.

Do tourists need a visa to visit Panama? Visa requirements vary based on nationality. Many visitors can enter Panama with a tourist card obtained upon arrival, but it’s always recommended to check visa requirements before travelling.

What languages are spoken in Panama? The official language of Panama is Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by professionals in the industry.

Is there a prominent local cuisine tourists should try? Absolutely! Panama offers a rich culinary landscape, influenced by its diverse culture. Tourists should try dishes like “Sancocho” (a hearty chicken soup), “Ceviche” (a seafood dish), and “Hojaldre” (a type of fried bread).

Panama, a bridge between North and South America, is pivotal in Central American tourism with its famed canal, vibrant culture, and natural wonders. The importance of this nation in the tourism industry is underscored by its growing appeal to international visitors. For a more comprehensive look at world destinations, continue exploring our articles.

  • 30 Interesting Facts About Panama
  • 15 Fascinating Facts About the Panama Canal
  • The 12 Essential Panama City Things To Do
  • 30 Interesting Facts about Honduras
  • 30 Exciting Facts About Dominican Republic

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7 Best Panama Tourist Attractions

Panama attractions are plentiful and easily accessible for anyone visiting by cruise from the Caribbean Sea or the Pacific Ocean.

The country is narrow, well-developed and simple to visit as a result.

The best Panama tourist attractions include the Panama Canal, Gatún Lake, Monkey Island, Soberania National Park and Panama City.

1) Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is the most famous attraction in the country. It also has spawned other attractions such as Gatún Lake.

Visitors at either end of the canal can go to visitor centers to see the locks in action and learn about how they work. We went with our three children. It wasn’t as fun as ziplining or a banana boat ride, but all of us found it interesting and educational.

Anyone taking a Caribbean cruise will have a chance to see the Gatún Locks, which lead into Lake Gatún. Visitors taking a Pacific cruise will see the Miraflores Locks, which are located near Panama City .

When we went to the Gatún Locks, we took a brief excursion to view them that left plenty of time for other activities.

Many tour operators take visitors to the locks. We booked ours on the cruise ship, but budget-minded visitors may save money by booking their tours directly with the operators.

2) Gatún Lake

Because the Gatún Locks lead into the man-made Gatún Lake, it is easy for visitors to add an excursion to the lake itself.

Tour options include kayaking (we enjoyed it), backpacking, Monkey Island, sport fishing (especially bass) and more.

Anyone taking a Panama Canal cruise will traverse the length of the canal and the 21-mile-long lake.

3) Monkey Island

This island taken over by four species of monkeys is a popular attraction by itself.

Boats go to the island throughout the day where visitors can photograph the monkeys and other creatures as well such as sloths, caimans and toucans.

Visitors used to be able to feed the monkeys, but regulations now forbid it.

4) Soberania National Park

The park, which lies along the east coast of Gatún Lake, covers 55,000 acres and is popular as an eco-tour because of its large number and variety of birds and mammals.

The park is the home of more than 1,300 plants and 100 animals including sloths, monkeys, tamarins and anteaters. It is 20 minutes from Panama City and 40 minutes from Colon.

5) Panama City

Panama City is more likely an excursion for Pacific or Panama Canal cruises. It can be reached as a day trip for anyone taking a western Caribbean cruise that includes a stop at the Colon cruise terminal.

Popular attractions in Panama City include the ruins of Old Panama, which were destroyed by the pirate Sir Henry Morgan in 1671. Other attractions are Paseo Esteban Huertas, Metropolitan Cathedral, National Theater and Simon Bolivar Plaza.

Casco Viejo is an especially popular tour. It is Panama City’s oldest surviving neighborhood consisting of colonial buildings at the tip of a heavily fortified peninsula. The ramparts protected the first Spanish settlement on the Pacific Coast. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6) Amador Causeway

Amador Causeway has famous views of Panama City skyscrapers, the yachts on Panama Bay and the Bridge of the Americas at the entrance of the canal.

The causeway is two miles long and connects Panama City to three small islands.

It also offers local vendors, shopping centers, restaurants and nightlife.

7) Darien National Park

Darien National Park, which connects the two continents of North and South America, offersmultiple ecosystems and habitats in one place. Visitors can hike through mangrove forests, rocky coastlines and dense tropical jungles.

Jaguars, giant anteaters, spider monkeys and Central American Tapirs roam through the park.

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16 things to know before you visit Panama City in 2024

Richard Arghiris

Mar 10, 2024 • 8 min read

A young woman smiling on a balcony with Panama City in the background

Get prepared for your visit to Panama City with our guide to what you need to know before you go © Westend 61 / Getty Images

Panama's capital is a cosmopolitan cityscape with a skyline dominated by gleaming skyscrapers and streets full of culture, incredible food and enticing attractions.

Explore on foot and take a stroll along the bay while the Pacific breeze keeps you cool, before exploring Panama City's different neighborhoods and finding its colonial history etched on every street.

Tourist crime here is low and most are of the low-key, opportunistic type you'll encounter in any major city. Keep your wits about you, avoid the more rough-and-tumble parts of town and you'll be just fine. 

From planning your trip to local etiquette, here’s what you need to know before traveling to Panama City .

1. Where you stay depends on your budget and needs

Every neighborhood has its advantages and disadvantages. With cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture, the historic quarter of Casco Viejo is the most memorable and romantic part of the city.

It has lots of high-end restaurants, luxury lofts and swanky rooftop bars, but a dearth of budget-friendly places to eat and its public transport links aren’t the best.

The Calidonia district in the southern part of the city occupies a grid of streets from Plaza 5 de Mayo to Calle 42 Este. Avenida Central bustles with market stalls, and the roads to the south are dotted with budget-friendly hotels.

The district is also near plenty of Metro trains and buses . You can pick up cheap street food during the day when kitchens open for local hospital staff and civil servants. After dark, however, Calidonia becomes shady and downbeat with limited dining options.

To the east of Calidonia, the so-called banking district is a patchwork of several districts or corregimientos , including modern and emerging neighborhoods that host the lion’s share of high-end lodgings and Airbnb rentals.

There are a few hostels and not nearly enough economical hotels. Many decent restaurants are dispersed throughout the banking district but are not always within walking distance.

If you’re in town to party, the Marbella and Bella Vista neighborhoods have great access to the bars and clubs on Calle Uruguay. El Cangrejo is an entertainment zone with a casino, good Metro train links on Vía España and a parade of restaurants on Vía Argentina. 

Dancers in traditional costume at the carnival in the streets of Panama City

2. Time your visit for budget-friendly deals and great weather

The high season coincides with the dry season  – mid-December to early April – when prices are generally higher. The major festivals of Christmas, New Year, Carnival and Semana Santa see a price increase in the capital, but not as much as the beaches , where most city-dwellers spend the holidays.

Mid-April to early December is the cheapest time to visit Panama City, as long as you don’t mind getting soaked by the rain.

Most deluges last only an hour or two in the afternoon, but the season gets wetter as it goes on. In the depths of it, the skies can be overcast for days, but the rains are usually intermittent and the cloud cover can bring relief from the relentless Panamanian sun.

3. You're better off with a Metro card than a car

Although a car is good for day trips out of town, don’t plan on driving much in the city. The one-way road system is baffling, city thoroughfares are often congested, and diversions are par for the course.

Instead, use Panama City’s public transport system , which includes a fleet of air-conditioned buses and Central America’s first-ever Metro train. Buy a three-in-one “RapiPass” upon arrival and gain access to Metro trains and buses, and the departure gates at Albrook bus station. 

4. Always keep a stash of low-denomination bills

You'll need to show your ID and sign a register if you pay for anything with a higher bill than US$20. Counterfeit money is an issue in the country, so all $50 and $100 bills will be scrutinized in Panama.

5. Don’t smoke in public

Legislation introduced in 2008 banned smoking in public places. People who smoke in non-designated areas are subject to fines of $25–100.

Two people wearing brightly colored clothing walk down a street smiling

6. Dress for comfort but look sharp

Panamanians like to dress up and look their best. The ostentatious displays of fashion on display in Obarrio include stiletto heels that somehow survive the assault course of the city’s pavements.

When socializing, casual attire is fine, but avoid wearing shorts and sandals to nice restaurants or social functions.

7. Tip hotel cleaning staff

If you stay in a hotel, leave a tip for the person who cleans your room – US$2–3 a day is fine. A 10% tip is often added in good restaurants, but not always – check the bill before paying.

In low-key local eateries, you may leave some loose change for the server. Unless they help with luggage, taxi drivers don’t expect a tip.

8. Don’t use drugs

Although Panama City is steeped in narco dollars, Panamanian society frowns on drug use, and the law does not tolerate it. If the police find you in possession of even small quantities of marijuana, you could spend several years in a Panamanian prison.

9. Don’t expect people to speak English

Panama City Spanish is Caribbean Spanish – extremely fast and heavily laden with jerga (slang). If Spanish is not your first language, you may struggle to catch it.

Don’t expect to find many English speakers during your day-to-day transactions. English is widely spoken in the business community, but not much outside of it, and mastering a few basic Spanish phrases  will help you get around.

10. It's safe to drink tap water

The tap water in Panama City is perfectly safe to drink. Save on plastic waste by refilling water bottles at a faucet. If you prefer purified water, you can refill at the 20-liter garrafones in most hotel lobbies.

A woman takes a photo of the city skyline viewed from within dense foliage

11. Prepare for environmental hazards

Panama City is an urban hothouse scratched out of the jungle. The elements are fierce – humidity is often 100%. You should take a day or two to relax and acclimate to the heat if you come from a cold-weather country.

Always apply sunscreen before going outside and keep an adequate water supply handy. Wear light clothes and a hat to keep the sun off your face. Bring a sturdy umbrella if you visit during the wet season.

Panama City suffers from flash floods during heavy downpours. If you get caught in a storm, you could end up wading through deep puddles. Traffic is generally heavy, and many parts of the city are not pedestrian-friendly. People living with asthma may find their symptoms are aggravated by fumes.

Sadly, the Bay of Panama is a dump for industrial effluence and untreated sewage, so the oceanfront malecón sometimes reeks.

12. Be aware of common scams

Scammers operate in all big cities and some target tourists. Be wary of strangers who tell unfortunate and earnest stories that end with them asking for money. If it seems suspicious, it probably is. Watch out for fake tour guides who ask for payment in advance and then stand you up.

Old-school taxi scams that involve going around the houses to increase the fare can happen anywhere in the world, but in Panama City, it’s common for taxis to simply overcharge. There are no meters in the cabs.

Fares are supposed to be based on zones, but in practice, they rarely are. If you look foreign, taxi drivers will bump up the fare. It's best to negotiate and agree on the price beforehand.

Two women wearing colorful tradition garb and head scarves pose for the camera in Panama City

13. Solo women travelers may receive unwanted attention

Panama City is typically safe for solo women travelers, but it's best to avoid walking alone at night in Casco Viejo, Santa Ana or Calidonia. Women may receive attention from chatty men on Metro trains or buses. If a man won’t leave you alone, ask a nearby older woman to assist.

14. Steer clear of sketchy neighborhoods

Thirty years ago, Casco Viejo was dicey. Today, things have somewhat improved, but there are still pockets of the old neighborhood where you should exercise caution.

If you’re staying in Casco Viejo, the 20-minute walk from the nearest Metro train station, 5 de Mayo, is risky at night. Use a taxi or an Uber instead. To the west of Casco Viejo, the neighboring El Chorrillo district is very dangerous and neglected. You should avoid this neighborhood entirely.

The district of Santa Ana, north of Casco Viejo, is bisected by the pedestrianized peatonal , a lively shopping street that is safe to walk during the day; stay alert in the crowds. The side roads east of the peatonal are sketchy, and you shouldn’t wander around them.

At its north end, the peatonal connects with Plaza 5 de Mayo, the National Assembly, a Metro station, a bus terminal and a grimy confluence of roads and flyovers. The area is lively into the evening, but stay alert and use a vehicle after 11pm.

North of 5 de Mayo, Avenida Central strikes into Calidonia district with street vendors and hustle. It's fine to explore in the day, but don’t flaunt expensive equipment or jewelry. Calidonia is spooky and seedy after dark. Avoid run-down or poorly lit streets.

15. Keep your documents handy

Everyone is legally required to carry a photo ID at all times in public in Panama. Tourists should carry their passport or a photocopy of their passport with the photo page and immigration entry stamp.

16. LGBTIQ+ travelers are welcome

Attitudes in rural Panama are somewhat conservative but less so in Panama City. LGBTIQ+ travelers are unlikely to encounter prejudice, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited by Panamanian law. There’s a lively gay scene in Casco Viejo and El Cangrejo.

This article was first published August 2022 and updated March 2024

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What to do in Panama City Panama: 12 must-do tourist attractions

Wondering what to do in Panama city Panama? Here are the best things to do in Panama that you need to include in your itinerary.

Are you looking for activities in Panama City Panama ? A while ago, we visited the city during a layover in Panama, but now we came back and spent more time going around some of the must-do tourist attractions in Panama that were left pending (apart from repeating others that you can’t miss when visiting Panama).

That’s why in this article I’m going to tell you the 12 best things to do in Panama City and some unique places you definitely should pay a visit to in the surroundings, so that you can organize your trip with all the information you need.

Things to do in Panama City Panama

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How to visit Panama City?

To go around the city, you can chose the following options:

➤ On your own.

➤ With tours that take you to the most important places.

➤ A combination of both.

Apart from how you decide to visit the city, the most important thing you should take into account is choosing the best areas where to stay in Panama ; they need to be safe and near the tourist attractions in the city. A good option in the city is Riu Plaza hotel , or a cheaper option is Marbella hotel .

If you’re going on your own, you can walk short distances or use public transport called Metrobus. To use it, you have to buy a card that costs 5 dollars and has 2 dollars in it and you can top it up in the machines at the train stations. Each route costs between 25 and 50 cents, and you can also use it to go from the airport to the center of Panama, which is a very cheap way of getting there.

As for visiting the city on tour , you can pick tours to visit the most important places of the city and get picked up from your accommodation, or book walking tours that, for instance, take you to the historic center or other places of interest.

⭐ Book here a guided tour in English .

Maybe the best option would be to combine both going on your own and tours. By going on tours, you can visit the places that are far away and more complicated to get to, such as the Panama Canal or visiting the ruins of old Panama.

⭐ Book here a complete tour: city tour + Panama canal.

➤ Are you looking for more independence and safety ? An alternative that can be quite comfortable if you don’t want neither to go on tours nor using public transport is buying the ticket for the tourist hop-on hop-off type of bus , which has stops in plenty of the must-see places in the city of Panama which I’ll refer to in this travel guide, even places far away such as the Panama Canal. You can hop on and hop off the bus at the stop you want and the ticket is valid for the entire day. You can get it for 24 or 48 hours with an audio guide in Spanish, English and Portuguese.

🚍 Check price & book the tourist bus .

Best things to do in Panama City Panamá: 12 must-do plans

1. walking around the historic center of panama: casco viejo.

The historic center or Casco Viejo is the most picturesque area to visit in Panama. This neighborhood that dates back to the 1600s has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded after the first city, called Panama La Vieja , was destroyed in 1671.

The stone pavement and the pastel-colored colonial facades at times make you feel like you’re in Cartagena de Indias , but better. This sector was one that greatly surprised us, since we saw it much more restored and cared for than when we visited it a few years before.

The historic center of Panama isn’t big, but it’s worth spending a couple of hours walking around its streets, its plazas and taking pictures of its corners. Plus, it has some must-do trips to do in Panama , which I’ll mention in detail next.

To better get to know the historic center and its history, I recommend taking a guided tour so that you get to know fun facts, the main spots of the historic center, and much more interesting data.

A good option is going on a free walking tour as soon as you get to the city. You can book these tours completely for free and then, at the end of the tour, you give the guide a tip taking into consideration how much you liked the tour and the guide’s dedication.

There’s a free tour dedicated to visiting the most important places of the Casco Viejo ( ➥ Book it here! ), and, if you have enough time, you can complement it with another very interesting tour dedicated to the city’s mysteries and legends (➥ Book it here! ) .

Another option would be to hire a traditional professional guided tour , which are cheap and take you around the best places of the neighborhood (➥ Book it here! ). This alternative is ideal if you want to make sure you can do the guided tour on a certain day (since the free tours do not leave if there are few people), as well as if you want a more extensive tour (which includes a visit to the Panama Canal or the ruins of Old Panama). There is also the option of hiring private guided tours where you can even choose the number of hours to customize it to your liking.

best things to do in Panama city Panama casco viejo

2. Visiting churches

There are several churches you can visit in the historic center. The ones I recommend adding to your trip around the city and not miss are:

  • Santa Maria la Antigua Basilica : it’s Panama’s Cathedral, built in stone in the 18th century (it reminded us a bit of the one in La Habana, Cuba).
  • San Francisco de Asis Church : when looking at the historic center for afar, the church’s bell tower stands out. It is worth going inside, since a few months a year, at the top floor, there’s a huge and beautiful manger, as well as a Christmas villa.
  • San Jose Church : it’s most famous characteristic of this 17th century church is its gold altar.
  • La Merced : a small 17th century church.

What caught our attention is that several of them had air conditioning, so inside it was super cool and they were also spotless.

Of course there are other churches in Panama outside the Casco Viejo, and we visited two churches that were near our hotel , which were Nuestra Señora del Carmen Church and Parroquia Santuario Nacional del Corazon de Maria . Both were pretty and worth checking out if you’re around.

basilica Panama cathedral

3. Convento Santo Domingo and Arco Chato Ruins

Convento Santo Domingo is one of the most photographed places of the historic center of Panama. It is a place in ruins due to two fires in the mid 1700s.

I recommend stopping by Arco Chato , which is considered by many to be an engineering marvel, defying the laws of gravity. For many years, it stood until in 2003 it collapsed and was rebuilt using a metal beam.

4. Walking around Paseo de las Bovedas

Paseo de las Bovedas is ideal for walking during sunset, since there are craft fairs (we saw many which were organized by the indigenous community Guna from the San Blas islands) under a big pergola, apart from the views to the sea and the historic center of the city. The trip ends in Plaza de Francia.

5. Eating fish at Mercado de Marisco, or Seafood Market

If you enjoy fish or seafood, there’s a good option for lunch at Mercado de Marisco . It’s at the border of the historic center and opens from 6 am to 5pm; there you can buy fresh fish, but the best thing is that at lunch time there are several restaurants. We chose one where several local people were eating.

The most common thing to order is ceviche , but we picked a white snapper and a red snapper , with a side of rice, coconut, patacones and salad. It was delicious and abundant, though a bit more expensive than what we paid for the rest of the trip around Panama.

fishes in Seafood market in Panama city Panama

6. Visiting Panama Canal, a unique thing to do in Panama!

Without a doubt, this is a must-do activity in Panama .

The canal , 80 kilometers long which joins the Atlantic with the Pacific Ocean, is one of the greatest engineering works that you can visit in the current world.

It has three sets of locks that bear the names of the towns where they were built:

  • Gatun Locks , approximately two kilometers long on the Atlantic side.
  • Miraflores Lock on the Pacific side.
  • Pedro Miguel , in the center.

The Miraflores Visitor Center is the closest to Panama City, and for that reason it is a typical visit. The tour consists of a video about the construction of the Canal, a multi-story museum and, most impressive, the exit to the terrace to see the large ships pass through the locks. Each ship pays a toll to cross the canal according to its length.

This time we didn’t go because we had already visited it when we made a stopover in Panama a few years ago, but if it’s your first time in the city, I think it’s a must see in Panama City .

They are far from the center, so the easiest way to visit them is on an excursion that lasts about 4 hours and includes all transfers. Or else the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus goes to the Panama Canal.

Something that we still have pending for another trip is to go to the Gamboa area and navigate the canal to Gatun Lake . There are also excursions where you cross the channel on a cruise ➥ Book it here!

💯 Book here the Panama Canal tour & Gamboa lake .

Brief summary of the history of the Panama Canal

The first effort to build the Panama Canal was made by the French in the 19th century, but after 5 years, the work was suspended due to epidemics such as malaria and yellow fever. The French company declared bankruptcy and, at the beginning of 1900, the United States bought the rights and properties for 40 million dollars and thus began the construction of the Panama Canal.

The total construction took 10 years, thanks to the labor of more than 75 thousand men and women. Around $400 million were invested and these were very difficult times due to the adversities of the time, mainly tropical diseases.

It was finally inaugurated in 1914 and, thanks to a series of treaties, on December 31, 1999, absolute control of the Canal passed into Panamanian hands.

7. Walking along the coastal strip or boardwalk

One of the most beautiful walks to do in Panama is to go for a walk along the coastal strip, from the historic center to Punta Paitilla. It is beautiful, with a wide path to walk or run, a bike path, all very green with flowers and well-kept gardens.

In addition, you will not only enjoy views of the sea but you will also have one of the best panoramic views of the historic center, the financial sector and Punta Pacífica with its glass-enclosed skyscrapers. Halfway through the tour, you will be able to take a photo with the letters of Panama.

If you also visit Panama on a Sunday, the coastal avenue is closed in the morning for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy. There are places to rent bicycles or scooters, fresh water stalls, soft drinks and natural juices, people doing yoga classes, etc.

Without a doubt, touring this area on a Sunday morning is one of the best things to do in Panama during the weekend .

cinta costera Panama

8. The ruins of Panama Viejo or Panama la Vieja

This archaeological site is located where Panama City was originally founded in 1519, before moving to what would be the historic center today. From here, the expeditions for the conquest of the Inca Empire of Peru left in 1532.

The reason for its transfer? Its commercial importance attracted the attention of pirates and, in 1671, it was attacked and sacked by the English pirate Henry Morgan, leaving it completely in ruins.

You can visit it from Tuesdays to Sundays. More information is on its official website .

⭐ Book here a Panama Viejo guided tour with transfers .

9. Calzada de Amador, or Amador Causeway

The Amador Causeway is a road that goes into the sea and joins several islands in the bay, offering beautiful views of the city .

It is a place where locals and expatriates go for a walk, run or fish, and at the end of the tour there are restaurants, shops, a yacht club and the Biomuseo, designed by architect Frank Gehry and focused on the natural history of Panama.

If you look at the map, you will see that it is relatively close to the historic center, but even if you like to walk I recommend not going on foot , since to get there you would have to cross one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Panama, El Chorrillo .

In my opinion, it is worth going to the Amador Causeway only if you have plenty of time in the city, otherwise, it seems better to prioritize other of the visits that I mentioned to do in Panama.

In case you do the complete tour of Panama , they will take you to see this site and you will not have to worry about transfers or security. Also, the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus has one of its stops here.

From the Amador Causeway there are some boat excursions to Isla Contadora or Taboga island , so if you do any of them, you could visit this area the day you do the excursion.

10. Going shopping

No list of things to do in Panama would be complete without mentioning shopping in the city’s large malls.

Although it is not one of our favorite activities, I must admit that you can get interesting prices both in electronics and in the top brand clothing outlets.

You must always keep in mind that getting good or bad prices depends not only on the time of year and offers, but also on what prices you are used to in the country you’re from.

So, which are the most important shopping centers? If you stay in Panama in the Bellavista area, you will find Multicentro and Multiplaza nearby. Otherwise, if you have time, Albrook is huge and can be easily accessed by the metrobus public transport system, or there are even shopping tours that take you there. The hop-on-hop-off tourist bus also has one of its stops at the Albrook shopping mall.

skyline Panama financial district

11. Climbing Ancón Hill

This 199-meter hill is a nature reserve very close to the city center, and due to its height, it offers good views of the buildings of the financial district.

12. Having a drink on a trendy rooftop

Something that has become fashionable in recent years is to go for a cocktail or a beer at sunset at one of the rooftop bars in the historic center. Apart from having a good time with good music, you will enjoy beautiful views of the city.

Some of the best known are the rooftop of the Selina hotel , Lazotea Jorge Rausch or the terrace of the Tántalo hotel .

beautiful views casco viejo Panama

What to do in Panama City at night?

A good plan for the sunset is what I mentioned before: going to a rooftop . But, if you want something different, you always have to keep in mind how to keep an eye out, as in every Latin American capital.

For example, you can go to dinner at a restaurant with views of the city that offers a show and includes transfers to and from the accommodation ( ➥ Book it here! ). There is also the option of booking a night tour of the city to which you can add a dinner in the historic center ( ➥ Book it here! ). The advantage of these options is that they pick you up and return you to your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about transfers or security .

If you are looking for more fun and going out to discover the Panamanian nightlife , I recommend you book a Pub Crawl where they take you to see 7 trendy pubs without having to worry about transportation, and it includes a free drink in each pub!

What to visit around Panama

Taking Panama City as a base, there are several places you can visit in the surroundings . You would have to think about dedicating a day to each one, since most can be done as an excursion from Panama.

Some places to consider are:

  • Gamboa and Gatun Lake .
  • Playa Blanca and Farallon.
  • Visiting the Portobelo forts .
  • Some island, such as Taboga or Contadora .
  • Going to the San Blas Islands .
  • Going hiking in the Soberanía National Park .

balconies casco viejo Panama

Things to do in Panama City Panama: FAQs

Is it worth visiting panama city.

Of course it is! I don’t think there are cities that aren’t worth a visit, but specifically Panama City has many things to offer as I showed throughout the article. It is an ideal destination to complement with a tour of the country or even with other places in the Caribbean or Central America.

How many days does it take to visit Panama City?

If you only want to visit the essential places to see in the city, two or three days would be enough.

If you also want to visit the surroundings of Panama, you will have to add at least one extra day for each destination.

For example, if you want to visit the most important tourist attractions in Panama, take the tour to Isla Taboga and navigate through the Panama Canal, you will have to consider at least 4 days in Panama City. If, on the contrary, you want to know the main part of the city and take a 3-day excursion to San Blas , you will have to dedicate 6 days (2 at the beginning, the 3 days of excursion, and 1 day at the end in the city before taking the flight).

If I have little time, is it worth going to the Panama Canal?

Visiting the Panama Canal is one of the most interesting things to do in Panama , since it is something unique in the world. But it is a very personal decision. If you don’t like those types of activities or you have little time, I don’t think it makes much sense to invest it in something that doesn’t appeal to you. There are many other activities to do in the city!

Is it safe to visit Panama City on foot?

If you walk through the Casco Viejo, or historic center, area or the coastal strip, it is very safe. Leaving the historic center, there is a dangerous neighborhood, so it is best to stay within the tourist area. To climb Ancón Hill, the best option is by excursion.

Even so, as in every Latin American city, there are areas that are safer than others and you always need to have common sense : do not show valuables, do not walk through dark areas or without people at night, etc. It does seem essential to me to choose one of the best areas to stay in Panama City , since it is important that coming and going from the accommodation is safe .

As I mentioned previously, a good option to move at a good price and safely between different tourist areas that are far from each other is getting the tourist bus ticket .

Another very important detail to keep in mind is that you always travel with travel assistance . It is better to have it and not use it than to need it and not have it. I say this out of extensive experience! There are also cheap plans ( take a look at these options ). Don’t save on health when you travel!

Is the rest of the country worth visiting?

Of course! Panama City is just the entry point to an incredible country . We made a 20-day itinerary through Panama that surprised us a lot. Beaches, jungle, hiking options, little mass tourism for now (unlike Costa Rica, for example).

We visited incredible places like Playa Cambutal, Playa Venao, Bocas del Toro or the beaches of Pedasí, among many others, and it was a spectacular trip.

Map – What to do in Panama

I hope this list of the best things to do in Panama City Panama was useful to plan your trip. If you have any questions, let me know in the comments. Have fun!

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Soy Bea, creadora de contenidos en este blog. Llevo 15 años viajando de forma independiente, por más de 40 países. Ahora trabajo de mi profesión mientras viajo. Disfruto de caminar, la naturaleza, la fotografía, el verde de los arrozales y la comida italiana en todas sus variantes.

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The 5 Most Gorgeous Beaches You Don't Want To Skip Near Panama City, According To Tripadvisor

Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City in northwestern Florida is often confused with the neighboring destination of Panama City Beach. As they are only 20 minutes apart, Panama City is the ultimate gateway to this iconic Spring Break spot. That said, Panama City Beach (pictured) provides visitors with a fun-filled seaside vacation. The activities are never-ending, from water adventures to attractions like Shipwreck Island Waterpark to Ripley's Believe It or Not! and the M.B. Miller County Pier.

Of course, its alluring soft white sand and year-round summer-like conditions also draw in tourists. However, visitors to both destinations might not realize that there are other beaches in and around the area. Best of all, they are just as stunning as Panama City Beach and great for avoiding the crowds .

Islands searched websites like Tripadvisor and blog posts written by local businesses and travel bloggers to bring you the most beloved beaches in the region. They include islands, hidden gems, and more. One of the most timeless things you can do in Florida is explore all of the fantastic beaches the Sunshine State has to offer. So put on your sunglasses and grab a towel and sunscreen; you won't want to miss out on these beaches.

Camp Helen State Park

@keithhudson972 CAMP HELEN STATE PARK PCB, FLORIDA #BEACHES #FLORIDA #STATEPARKS #WAVES #SUN #SURF #SAND #NORTHWESTFLORIDA #GULFOFMEXICO #FL #NATURE #WILDLIFE #OUTDOORS #RECREATION #FUN #VACATION ♬ Instrumental Café Background Jazz for Coffee Drinkers - 1940s Coffee Jazz

Here's a place in Panama City Beach you might not be aware of: Camp Helen State Park. This scenic nature destination has a white sand beach for swimming. Camp Helen State Park is also home to Lake Powell, ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. If needed, rentals are available at the park. Fishing is allowed at Lake Powell, and there are a few different hiking trails. In other words, this is the place to go if you want a beach day and outdoor adventure.

One person on Tripadvisor wrote, "If you enjoy a day, walking along trails, with nature all around, kayaking in the Gulf of Mexico, swimming in emerald, green water, camping, listening to wildlife, as you turn in, for the evening, then you need to plan a visit."

In addition, Camp Helen State Park is a historic site. In fact, according to Florida State Parks , nine buildings in the park are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, some of which predate the 1940s. Make sure to check these out during your visit. Camp Helen State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. Admission ranges from $2 to $4. Note that there is no lifeguard on duty.

St. Andrews State Park

St. Andrews State Park is a little-known paradise located in Panama City Beach. It's top-rated on Tripadvisor and features deep blue waters and a white sand shore. An array of activities are available, including swimming, snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and more. In addition, there is a shallow lagoon swimming area available for children. Snorkel gear can be rented at the park's concession stand, and the park also offers a dolphin snorkel tour.

But that's not all. Visitors can also rent pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddleboards for a half or full day. All rentals and tours can be booked online . Overall, St. Andrews State Park is perfect for those wanting an adventurous beach day with family or friends. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. Admission is $8 per vehicle (two or more individuals are included for this price). If you work up an appetite during your beach time, a small eatery in the park serves fast-food classics and cold drinks.

For those who want to extend their beach day, camping is available at St. Andrews State Park for $28 a night. Tents and RVs are welcome, and each site features water and electricity. You can make a reservation online . For a unique experience, book an eco-tent instead.

Shell Island

@panamacity_pontoons All the conditions are right and the weathers perfect in Panama City! #shellisland #shellislandpcb #pcb #panamacitybeach #panamacity #panamacitybeachflorida #30a #rosemarybeach #gulfcoast #emeraldcoast #florida #vacation #dolphin #dolphins #beach #paradise #summer #springbreak #pcpontoons #explorepage #bacheloretteparty #love #happy #pcbrentals ♬ Island Song - Zac Brown Band

Undoubtedly one of the best islands in Florida , Shell Island is off the coast of Panama City Beach. It's a barrier island featuring seven miles of uninhabited beach, and is known for being a popular swimming and snorkeling spot. It's also renowned for its beauty and secluded ambiance. Picture white sand, crystal clear waters, and nothing else—not even bathrooms. Thus, if you plan on visiting Shell Island, bring your drinks, snacks, chairs, and anything else you might need for the day.

There are also no trash cans on the island, so everything you bring with you must also be brought back with you. Visitors can take a ferry from the mainland to Shell Island. One provider is the Shell Island Shuttle. It departs from Panama City Beach and takes 15 minutes to arrive to Shell Island. At the time of this publication, a roundtrip ticket is less than $30 for children and adults. You can purchase tickets online .

The Shell Island Shuttle's hours vary per season. Consider when the last boat departs from Shell Island, so you know when to wrap up your beach day. If you are interested, you can also rent snorkeling gear with the Shell Island Shuttle.

Santa Rosa Beach

Santa Rosa Beach is a hidden treasure an hour away from Panama City. It's part of 30A, a Florida highway known for its stunning beaches. One reviewer on  Tripadvisor wrote in March 2024, "Santa Rosa Beach is a beautiful, pristine beach to enjoy your time at, either solo or with others. The sand is beautiful and the ocean views are intoxicating." However, another must-visit in the area is Blue Mountain Beach.

This Santa Rosa Beach neighborhood is home to quaint local businesses, including Blue Mountain Bakery and Blue Mountain Beach Creamery, which are ideal for those with a sweet tooth. Like Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach is also beloved on Tripadvisor. Reviewers say that it's clean and comparable to the beaches of the Caribbean.

While you're in Santa Rosa Beach, make sure to stop by Grayton Beach State Park. This picturesque destination allows swimming, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Moreover, you can expect to encounter lush greenery and wildlife, including birds and gray foxes. Grayton Beach State Park is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. Admission is $5 for each vehicle with two or more individuals. Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty.

Miramar Beach

Located about an hour and 20 minutes from Panama City, Miramar Beach, near Destin, Florida, has it all. This includes an immaculate coastline with white sand perfect for sunbathing after a cool ocean dip. Nevertheless, Miramar Beach has much more to offer. Visitors and thrill seekers can enjoy parasailing, banana boat rides, and more. All of these activities can be booked online at  Miramar Beach Parasail . Prices vary per season, but you can expect to pay less than $100 for each excursion at the time of this publication.

Miramar Beach is also home to Dolphin Reef, a unique artificial reef in the shape of a dolphin. This spot is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. A local tour operator provides snorkeling tours of Dolphin Reef, which can be booked online . Likewise, kayaks, paddleboards, and other beach equipment rentals are also available online .

One popular eatery near the beach is Pompano Joe's. The restaurant has ocean views and serves Caribbean-inspired fare, seafood, and more. If you need a place to stay, head to the  Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort . It has amenities, including four pools, complimentary kayak rentals, and more. Depending on when you make a reservation, you can find prices for less than $300 a night.

Our methodology

Using Tripadvisor, we narrowed down the top-rated beaches for readers based on top-ranking reviews. Blog posts and further research also contributed to our decision-making. We ensured the beaches were accessible to the public and less than an hour and a half from Panama City, Florida. Additionally, we chose beaches that offered plenty of activities and amenities for groups or families. These features were considered so you could effortlessly plan a vacation or day trip to these nearby Panama City beach destinations.

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Belching Volcano and Flowing Lava Dent Tourism in Icelandic Region

In a country that relies heavily on visitors, hotels faced repeated evacuations, and one resort was temporarily shut.

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Large orange clouds loom above figures viewing a spewing volcano.

By Emma Bubola

Reporting from London

The Blue Lagoon resort in the south of Iceland is a scenic network of steaming azure pools surrounded by dark rocks, where tourists dip in the geothermal water, have spa treatments and enjoy what the resort advertises as “a universe of radiant well-being.”

But last week, a stream of radiant lava burst from a crater a few miles from the resort, forcing it to evacuate hundreds of guests, in yet another eruption of a volcano system in the Reykjanes Peninsula that had been dormant for 800 years.

The outbursts began in 2021, and the eruptions and earthquakes in the peninsula have destroyed some houses and forced villagers from their homes. One construction worker went missing in the town of Grindavik after falling down a crack caused by an earthquake.

The effects of the volcanic eruptions have rippled out beyond the peninsula, disrupting the tourism operations of a country that relies heavily on visitors.

Arnar Már Ólafsson, director general of the Icelandic Tourist Board, said that when a looming volcanic eruption led to the evacuation of Grindavik in November, it resulted in global anxiety that brought a drop in tourists.

“A spouting volcano doesn’t sound very inviting,” he said.

Icelandair, the country’s national airline, said it also saw a “significant negative impact on bookings” in the last months of 2023. And the low-cost Icelandic airline Play said that news of the eruption “cooled demand for Iceland as a destination.”

The tourism board did not release an estimate for the financial losses, and the airlines, while saying they experienced significantly slowed sales, did not quantify them.

Airline officials and the tourism board director stated emphatically in interviews and in the national news media that the reaction was unwarranted because the eruptions did not represent a direct threat to visitors or flights. They accused the news media of “alarmism.”

“In the international press, it just looks as if Iceland is ruined,” Birgir Jónsson, then Play’s chief executive, said in an interview published in December by a financial magazine.

Tourists used to flock to the Reykjanes Peninsula to watch the northern lights or bathe in the waters of the Blue Lagoon resort. But since the November earthquakes, the Blue Lagoon has had to close for some days . It said in a statement on Wednesday that it had also shut down from March 16 until at least Thursday and would continue to follow the authorities’ safety guidelines.

The Northern Light Inn, a family-run hotel, has also had to evacuate its guests four times since January and close for weeks, said Fridrik Einarsson, the inn’s owner. Now, they are compensating for the drop in tourists by serving lunches to the construction workers building protection walls in the area.

“If this continues for a long period of time, it will eventually be very, very challenging for us ,” Mr. Einarsson said.

Mr. Ólafsson said that any threat to the Blue Lagoon geothermal resort undermined a key component of Iceland’s tourism sector.

“Without the Blue Lagoon, it would be a different destination,” he said, “like Egypt without the pyramids or Paris without the Eiffel Tower.”

The resort is particularly popular with visitors from the United States, and every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the spa, according to the Blue Lagoon’s website. The spa is now protected by barriers.

The resort owes its existence to the geothermal energy generated by the volcanic system, which heats up its waters. But that same system is also now its main threat.

That paradox, many say, is at the heart of Iceland’s identity as an adventure travel destination where tourists seek out untamed nature in the form of waterfalls, glaciers and hot springs. And 130 volcanoes.

During the volcanic eruptions last year, as tourists flocked to sites where they could see the glowing river of lava, the government had to warn people to steer clear of the area since the situation could turn dangerous.

Now, Icelandic tourism operators say, the anxiety has eased somewhat, and tourism demand has gone up again since January. But for those remaining in the peninsula, there seems to be no immediate end in sight to the disruption of their businesses.

Last week, as Mr. Einarsson, the inn owner, evacuated his guests to another hotel because of the volcanic eruption, he said they could see lava from the parking lot.

“It’s quite a magnificent experience, to see a volcano,” he said.

Mr. Einarsson called his relationship to volcanoes a “tricky love and hate situation.”

On one hand, he said, “people are understandably concerned to stay in a hotel next to an eruption site.” On the other, he said, people come to Iceland for its nature, and the nature would not be the same without the country’s volcanoes.

“And I would not be in the business,” he said.

Egill Bjarnason contributed reporting from Gran Canaria, Spain.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in London, covering news across Europe and around the world. More about Emma Bubola

ago strike

One of Toronto's biggest tourist attractions is closed indefinitely amid strike

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Anyone hoping to spend a day browsing works at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) will have to put their plans to visit the downtown Toronto attraction on hold for at least today, as the institution has had to close its doors amid strike action.

Employees in the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) voted to go on strike at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday after turning down the latest offer from the gallery, which comes after 10 months of bargaining talks.

As a result, the AGO has informed patrons this morning that it will be shuttered to the public until further notice.

"The AGO is currently closed due to a labour disruption. We remain hopeful that we will reach a negotiated agreement with OPSEU soon," reads a 7 a.m. post from  the gallery's X account  that directs people to its website for updates.

The AGO is currently closed due to a labour disruption. We remain hopeful that we will reach a negotiated agreement with OPSEU soon. When operations resume, updates will be published at https://t.co/RiYQl42p2R . Please email [email protected] for further questions. — Art Gallery of Ontario (@agotoronto) March 26, 2024

Members of the union are demanding higher pay and "protections against contracting out for precarious part-time workers," among other things, writing in a news release that the AGO's "elite executives made hundreds of thousands" over the pandemic while lower-level staff have faced years of wage freezes.

The release claims that centre's CEO earned a $406,000 salary in 2020-2021, as well as more than $390,000 in consulting fees from the AGO Foundation. 

"Many of these workers are artists in their own right that contribute to the cultural fabric of the city. Devaluing artists is not how we show the public that the arts matter... the AGO is sending the message that as a prominent cultural institution, it prioritizes the bottom line over peoples' livelihood."

Those on strike include food and customer service staff, carpenters, archivists and researchers, technicians, assistant curators and more, amounting to more than 400 workers.

Becky Robertson

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IMAGES

  1. The Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Panama

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  2. Top attractions in Panama City, Panama: coolest things to do

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  3. Best Things to do in Panama: Tourist Attractions

    the visitor panama tourist attractions

  4. 11 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Panama

    the visitor panama tourist attractions

  5. What to do in Panama City

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  6. Panama City

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COMMENTS

  1. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Panama

    Amador Causeway (Calzada de Amador) Located at the southern entrance of the Panama Canal and stretching nearly three kilometers into the Pacific Ocean, this popular causeway features many tourist-related venues and activities including hotels, restaurants, and jogging and biking trails. 5. Avenida Balboa.

  2. 15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Panama (+Map)

    Guna Yala Islands. 2. Casco Viejo. 1. Panama Canal. Map of Things to Do in Panama. 15. Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park. Stretching down the Pacific coast of Panama is the Gulf of Chiriqui National Marine Park.

  3. Welcome to Panamá

    Panama City. Panama City is much more than the country's capital. Here you can pedal in front of a skyline with some of the tallest skyscrapers in Latin America, enjoy the Pacific breeze as you ride along the Bay of Panama, walk among archaeological sites and trails, and see how colonial history and the night come alive in the same place ...

  4. 13 best things to do in Panama

    The canal is an obligatory attraction for first-time visitors to Panama, and you have several options for getting close to the action. ... Activities. The 14 best things to do in Panama City. Mar 8, 2023 • 7 min read. Whether you're a first-time visitor or coming back for more, here's our guide to the top things to do in Panama City ...

  5. The 8 best places to visit in Panama

    4. Bocas del Toro. Bocas del Toro have something for everyone. Simultaneously a backpacker party hub, couples' chilled-out Caribbean paradise, and expat enclave, the three main islands and scores of uninhabited islets also boast some of Panama's finest beaches. Bocas Town on Isla Colón is party central.

  6. 11 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Panama

    In Panama City, you'll find a modern metropolis with shopping, dining, and an assortment of tourist attractions and things to do, including the country's most famous site, the Panama Canal. Most first-time visitors head to Casco Viejo, the Old Town, to soak up the atmosphere and see a little of the city's history.

  7. 10 Best Places to Visit in Panama (+Map)

    1. Panama Canal [SEE MAP] The Panama Canal is one of the most famous landmarks in Panama - and indeed, all of Central America. Running between Panama City on the Pacific side and Colon on the Atlantic side, the waterway provides a shortcut between two oceans, and one of the world's most popular shipping zones.

  8. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Panama

    Things to Do in Panama, Central America: See Tripadvisor's 491,512 traveller reviews and photos of Panama tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend or in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in Panama. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  9. The 14 best things to do in Panama City

    6. Discover Panama's incredible biodiversity at the BioMuseo. Designed by starchitect Frank Gehry, the BioMuseo, with its multicolored origami-like canopies, is quite a spectacle - inside and out. The world-class museum, located on the Amador Causeway, showcases how the skinny isthmus of Panama changed the planet.

  10. The 20 Best Things to Do in Panama (For Nature Lovers)

    Caiman in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett. 14. Bocos del Toro Research Station. It's hard to ignore the Smithsonian's programs throughout the country, and Bocos del Toro Research Station is another impressive one of the places to go in Panama.

  11. The Visitor Panama

    Altos del Maria, a Mountain Community Full of Natural Attractions and the Best Luxury Camping in Panama Los Abetos Boutique Hotel, a Nature-Friendly Retreat Full of Comforts and Relaxation in Boquete Feria de Azuero will be held from April 19 to May 1 with Innovations for All Visitors

  12. 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Panama City, Panama

    3. Visit Historic Panama Viejo Ruins in Panama Viejo. Panama Viejo is the original site where the city was founded in 1519. Located about a 15- to 20-minute drive out of the city towards Tocumen International Airport, this historical sight is worth the effort to visit. The 14 remaining ruins are spread out over an area about 1.5 kilometers long.

  13. 15 Best Things To Do In Panama

    Panama is a fun country to visit. Despite the heat and humidity of Central America that make traveling to Panama at times very tiring, you are bound to enjoy this country, which has a lot to offer. Panama tourist attractions are many and varied - from tropical beaches, to jungle, hikes, incredible islands and a great capital city.

  14. Tourist attractions in Panama

    Famous tourist attractions in Panama. 1. Casco Viejo. Hip rooftop bars and chic restaurants dot leafy plazas, ancient churches and stately colonial buildings in Panama City's historic center, making up one of Panama's major points of interest. Visitors to the Panamanian capital naturally head first for colonial Casco Viejo - established ...

  15. 7 Of The Best Places To Visit In Panama · A Travel Guide

    Panama City. San Blas Islands. Portobelo. Santa Catalina. Boquete. More. Panama is such a wonderful surprise. As one of the safest countries in Central America and being somewhat cheaper than expensive Costa Rica, this bite-size destination makes for a great introduction to the region.

  16. The Must-Visit Attractions In Panama City Panama

    Here are the must-see attractions in Panama City to help you navigate your stopover or longer stay. 1. The Canal. Top of the list is the Panama Canal - a 48mi (77km) artificial waterway connecting the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, which can be seen from the Miraflores Visitor's Center.

  17. Visit the World-Renowned Panama Canal

    Known as the 8th wonder of the modern world, the Panama Canal is a must-see for every Panama visitor. Built to dramatically decrease the travel time for ships between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, over 900,000 vessels and counting have transited through it. At one point in history, the Panama Canal was considered impossible to build but you can now witness this engineering miracle on your ...

  18. The top ten tourist attractions in Panama

    The San Blas Islands are one of the top ten tourist attractions in Panama. Located off the Caribbean coast, these 378 islands and cays offer visitors a paradise-like experience with its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush vegetation. An archipelago belonging to the Kuna Yala indigenous people, this is an ideal destination for ...

  19. Top 5 Panama Tourist Attractions for Nature Lovers

    Panama is a Nature Lover's dream with nearly 1000 species of birds, several endangered species, and many cool & weird animals that are only seen in a few other places in the world. There are also volcanoes, secluded Caribbean islands, and indigenous populations. Here are our picks for the Top 5 Panama Tourist Attractions for eco activities and eco-adventures.

  20. Tourism In Panama

    In 2019, Panama welcomed a record-breaking 2.48 million international visitors, marking a significant increase from previous years. The tourism sector contributed approximately 10% to Panama's GDP in 2019. The average length of stay for international visitors in Panama is around 8 days.

  21. 7 Best Panama Tourist Attractions

    Panama attractions are plentiful and easily accessible for anyone visiting by cruise from the Caribbean Sea or the Pacific Ocean. The country is narrow, well-developed and simple to visit as a result. The best Panama tourist attractions include the Panama Canal, Gatún Lake, Monkey Island, Soberania National Park and Panama City.

  22. 16 things to know before you visit Panama City in 2024

    In the depths of it, the skies can be overcast for days, but the rains are usually intermittent and the cloud cover can bring relief from the relentless Panamanian sun. 3. You're better off with a Metro card than a car. Although a car is good for day trips out of town, don't plan on driving much in the city.

  23. What to do in Panama City Panama: 12 must-do tourist attractions

    Best things to do in Panama City Panamá: 12 must-do plans. 1. Walking around the historic center of Panama: Casco Viejo. The historic center or Casco Viejo is the most picturesque area to visit in Panama. This neighborhood that dates back to the 1600s has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  24. The 5 Most Gorgeous Beaches You Don't Want To Skip Near Panama City

    St. Andrews State Park. Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock. St. Andrews State Park is a little-known paradise located in Panama City Beach. It's top-rated on Tripadvisor and features deep blue waters and a white sand shore. An array of activities are available, including swimming, snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and more.

  25. Iceland's Tourism Suffers Amid a Belching Volcano and Flowing Lava

    Belching Volcano and Flowing Lava Dent Tourism in Icelandic Region. In a country that relies heavily on visitors, hotels faced repeated evacuations, and one resort was temporarily shut. Viewing ...

  26. One of Toronto's biggest tourist attractions is closed indefinitely

    The release claims that centre's CEO earned a $406,000 salary in 2020-2021, as well as more than $390,000 in consulting fees from the AGO Foundation.

  27. The Lion King in Durham-- Save on Attractions & Hotels

    Website (919) 687-0288. Six-time Tony Award-winning musical The Lion King is coming back to Durham Performing Arts Center 5/15-6/9 and we've got the family-friendly deals to help you plan a full weekend getaway. Show your musical tickets to claim discounts at restaurants and attractions and book exclusive hotel offers.