bigtravelbuzzPanama is a Central American gem that seamlessly blends natural wonders, vibrant culture, and modern amenities. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, the best time to plan your trip, exciting activities, transportation options, dining opportunities, accommodation choices, and travel tips for your visit to Panama.
Places to Visit in Panama
Panama Canal: Explore this engineering marvel and watch ships transit through the locks. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers a great vantage point.
San Blas Islands: These pristine islands are home to the Kuna people. Enjoy clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich indigenous culture.
Boquete: Nestled in the highlands, Boquete is a paradise for nature lovers. Hike, birdwatch, and taste some of the world’s best coffee.
Bocas del Toro: This archipelago is known for its lively atmosphere, water sports, and stunning marine life. It’s a haven for divers and snorkelers.
Casco Viejo, Panama City: Wander through the historic old town with its charming colonial architecture, art galleries, and lively nightlife.
Best Time to Visit Panama
The dry season, from mid-December to mid-April, is the best time to visit Panama. This period offers sunny weather and is ideal for exploring both the cities and natural wonders.
Things to Do in Panama
Rainforest Adventures: Embark on eco-tours and wildlife viewing in Panama’s lush rainforests, like Soberania National Park.
Surfing: Panama’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts offer excellent surfing conditions. Santa Catalina and Playa Venao are popular surf spots.
Hiking Volcan Baru: For a rewarding challenge, hike to the top of Volcan Baru, Panama’s highest peak, and catch a stunning sunrise.
Whale Watching: Witness humpback whales in their natural habitat in the Gulf of Chiriquà and the Pearl Islands.
Coffee Tours: Panama is famous for its Geisha coffee. Tour coffee farms in Boquete to learn about the process.
How to Get Around in Panama
Domestic Flights: For longer distances within the country.
Buses: An economical way to travel within cities and to different provinces.
Taxis: Safe and readily available in cities, but always negotiate fares.
Boats: Common for reaching islands and coastal areas.
Where to Eat in Panama
Panama offers a diverse culinary scene:
Sancocho: A traditional Panamanian chicken soup.
Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice, often with onions and cilantro.
Patacones: Fried green plantains, often served as a side dish.
Famous Street Stalls in Panama
Mercado de Mariscos, Panama City: Try the ceviche from local stalls.
Calle Uruguay, Panama City: Lively street with various food vendors.
Where to Stay in Panama
Panama offers a range of accommodation options:
Luxury Resorts: Enjoy 5-star resorts in beach destinations like Playa Bonita and Bocas del Toro.
Boutique Hotels: Find unique, smaller hotels in Casco Viejo and Boquete.
Hostels: Budget-friendly hostels are common in tourist areas for backpackers.
Travel Tips for Panama
Currency: Panama uses the U.S. dollar (USD).
Learn Basic Spanish: While many Panamanians speak English, some knowledge of Spanish is helpful.
Health Precautions: Check if vaccinations are required before traveling.
Safety: Panama is relatively safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.
Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of indigenous cultures and traditions.
Plan Transit Through Panama Canal: If you want to see ships pass through the canal, check the schedule in advance.
Panama’s unique combination of natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and rich culture makes it a must-visit destination in Central America. Whether you’re marveling at the engineering feat of the Panama Canal, lounging on pristine beaches, or exploring lush rainforests, Panama has something for every traveler.