Since the creation of the world famous Panama Canal in 1914, this country has been at the heart of international shipping, serving as a connection point between the Pacific and the Caribbean. In recent years, Panama has also become a major tourist destination as flights from the US have become increasing cheap and more Americans begin to retire here (it’s also a big center for international banking). Most travelers either start or stop their journey through Central America here and stick to the well-worn tourist trail of Bocas del Toro, Boquete, the San Blas islands, and Panama City but if you head to some of the lesser-known destinations you’ll be rewarded with better food, vistas, and cheaper prices. Panama is a cool country with a lot of wildlife, national parks, and beaches worth exploring!
Panama
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Panama
1. See the Panama Canal
2. Hang out in Bocas del Toro
3. Relax in Boquete
4. Sail the San Blas islands
5. Tour a Coffee Plantation
Other Things to See and Do
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1. Check out the Ruins at Panama Viejo
Panama was the Pacific coast’s most important Spanish trading town until it was destroyed by Captain Henry Morgan in 1671. The remaining ruins cover quite a large area, encompassing streets, squares, a cathedral, churches, convents, a hospital, walls and bridges, all made of stone. Admission is 4 USD for adults and .50 USD for kids.
2. Bike Along Amadour Causeway
This 6km-long causeway was made from the excavated rocks when the canal was built and links three islands. It is perfect to ride a bike along as the view is fantastic. Look across the canal on one side and the check out the cityscape on the other. There are plenty of restaurants and other touristy shops to stop at along the way, and plenty of bike rentals available right there. Expect to pay 10-20 USD for a rental.
3. Take the Panama Canal Railway
The Panama Canal Railway connects Panama City with Colón and runs from the Pacific to Atlantic Oceans. The train is an old-fashioned locomotive complete with a great observation car which offers views of the canal, Gutan Lake, and passing rainforests. While it is 50 USD for the three-hour round trip journey, you do get to see both oceans in a single trip, which is pretty neat.
4. Visit Portobelo
This sleepy little town was first given the name “Puerto Bello” (Beautiful Port) by Christopher Columbus in 1502 and over time, the name was shortened to Portobelo. The town’s 18th-century fortifications were built by the Spanish to protect their gold from pirates. Along with Fort San Lorenzo, the fortifications have achieved UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
5. Hit the Beach in Pedasi
Located on the Pacific side, this town is about five hours from Panama City and is famous for its surfing. Though it has become a haven for expats in recent years, it is still a very much off the beaten path destination. Not a lot of people go here and you’ll have the beach mostly to yourself. The water is bathtub warm and you can do some great tuna fishing here.
6. Hike in the Rainforest Parks
Parque Soberania, Parque Metropolitano, and Parque Chagres are three rainforest parks just outside of Panama City. If you need a break from the urban atmosphere, these parks are a great place to get in some hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for sloths, monkeys, and anteaters.
7. Spot Wildlife at Volcan Baru
Volcan Baru is the only volcano in Panama, and at 11,500 feet, it is the highest point in the country. The lower slopes are home to dozens of coffee plantations, while the higher ground is part of the Volcan Baru National Park. Bring your camera as the rainforest here is a good place to spot the Resplendent Quetzal which is one of the most beautiful birds in the world. Expect to pay around 125 USD for a guided hike.
8. Surf in Santa Catalina
This is a hot spot with the surfing community, but it’s pretty bare-bones when it comes to amenities. Only 300 people live in this town on the Pacific coast, so don’t come here expecting glitz and glamor. This is the place to be if you want to catch some fantastic waves and relax on some beautiful beaches. If you want to learn how to surf, lessons cost around 100 USD per day but includes accommodation, food, and lessons.
9. Canoe to Embera Indian Village
To get to the village you’ll travel up the Chagres river in a dugout canoe then walk through a rainforest, giving you the chance to come face to face with local flora and fauna. When you finally meet the Embera tribe you’ll notice that they live pretty much as they did hundreds of years ago. They offer guests traditional food, music, and dancing followed by the chance to buy the tribe’s handicrafts or go for a swim under a waterfall. Day tours cost between 125-275 USD per person, depending on how many people are going.
10. Explore Casco Viejo
Just outside of Panama City is Casco Viejo, the oldest city in the Americas. These days, the city’s red bricked streets are lined with clubs, bars, restaurants, and cafes, though the Spanish style architecture still gives the entire area an historical feeling. In 1998, the city’s cultural and historical significance was recognized by UNESCO and it was declared a World Heritage Site.
