Panamá
Many regions offer eco-lodge and a new train connecting Panamá City with the interior of the country is being built. Opportunities to engage in world-class birdwatching just outside the Capital of Panamá City and marine conservation on both coasts have been a big draw as of late. In the dry season, the country becomes a paradise for surfers and sun-seekers, while the highlands offer year-round hiking, coffee tours, and canopy adventures with breathtaking volcanic views.
Panamá is divided into ten provinces and ten indigenous comarcas, each with its own unique charm:
- Panamá Province: Home to the capital and its historical origin, where the colonial ruins of Panamá Viejo and the historic Casco Viejo meet a shimmering modern skyline.
- Colón: Boasts the Caribbean coast’s historical fortifications Portobelo and San Lorenzo, alongside the massive Gatun Lake.
- Chiriquí: A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, known for the Barú Volcano, the mountain town of Boquete, and premium coffee plantations.
- Bocas del Toro: An archipelago renowned for its vibrant Caribbean culture, overwater bungalows, and crystal-clear snorkeling spots.
- Los Santos: Located on the Azuero Peninsula, it is the heart of Panamanian folklore, famous for its traditional festivals and Pacific surf breaks like Playa Venao.
- Guna Yala: A self-governed indigenous territory comprising over 300 islands, offering a unique blend of pristine white-sand beaches and deep-rooted Guna traditions.
- Veraguas: Province with both a Caribbean and Pacific coast, mountains and gorgeous beaches along the Azuero Sunset Coast.
The country hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Carnival, a vibrant celebration of music and water fights, and the Festival de la Mejorana, which showcases the soul of Panamanian folk music and dance. The colorful Pollera, the national dress, is a symbol of the country’s elegance and craftsmanship.
Panamanian cuisine is a delightful blend of Afro-Antillean, Indigenous, and Spanish influences. It is a feast for the senses, offering hearty flavors that satisfy both the palate and the soul.
- Sancocho: A hearty chicken soup with ñame (yam) and culantro, considered the ultimate national comfort food.
- Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice, onions, and peppers, often enjoyed at the bustling Mercado de Mariscos.
- Hojaldras: Deep-fried dough sprinkled with sugar or served with sausages, a staple of a traditional Panamanian breakfast.
- Patacones: Twice-fried green plantain slices, a crispy and savory side dish found at every table.
Panamá’s infrastructure features the only metro system in Central America and a reliable highway network like the Inter-Americana makes it easy to explore. The country is considered one of the safest in the region and offers warm, multicultural hospitality. English is widely spoken in business and tourist areas, ensuring travelers have an unforgettable trip.
Panamá City
The capital is not only the financial hub of the region but also Panamá City is a cultural and artistic center. It is famous for the Panamá Canal, an engineering marvel that connects two oceans. The city’s cultural life flourishes in Casco Viejo, the historic district where Spanish colonial architecture houses boutique hotels, jazz clubs, and rooftop bars.
Boquete
Located in the green highlands of Chiriquí, Boquete attracts travelers with its eternal spring climate and world-renowned coffee. It is a hub for adventure, offering rafting, zip-lining, and treks to the summit of Barú Volcano, where—on a clear day—you can see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans simultaneously.
Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is a Caribbean destination famous for its laid-back island vibes and biodiversity. A unique attraction is Starfish Beach, where calm waters reveal giant sea stars. The region offers a fascinating insight into Afro-Caribbean heritage, reflected in the local dialect, rhythmic music, and spicy coconut-based cuisine.
San Blas (Guna Yala)
Often referred to as one of the last untouched paradises in the world, the San Blas archipelago is popular for its palm-fringed islands and the rich history of the Guna people. With no massive resorts or electricity-heavy infrastructure, it provides a perfect backdrop for total disconnection. Whether sailing between islands or learning about the intricate Mola textiles, San Blas captures the essence of Panamá’s natural and cultural beauty.
Veraguas
About half-way between Panamá and Chiriquí, Veraguas is famous for its beaches along the Azuero Sunset Coast, between Mariato and Quebro. Santiago is its centrally located hub where you find everything a city has to offer. Or visit Santa Fe, a mountain village in the mountains of the Cordiliera of Central America at a short distance of the Continental Divide.
