Panama’s Pacific Coast provides plenty of entertainment – from deserted islands like San Blas to laidback surf beaches like Playa Venao. Full moon parties are particularly popular on this stretch of coastline.
Kayak Gatun Lake and learn all about its ecosystem with your guide while keeping an eye out for three-toed sloths, capuchin monkeys and tropical birds!
1. Volcan Baru
Hikers seeking an adventure will love Volcan Baru National Park of Panama. Boasting numerous hiking trails of various difficulties, and offering incredible views over its lush surroundings – on clear days you can even spot both Atlantic and Pacific oceans from its peak!
Hiking to Volcan Baru can be an exciting adventure, so it is advised that you bring along a guide. In order to reach its peak by sunrise and witness some amazing wildlife encounters along the way.
Volcan Baru offers many other activities to do, from visiting coffee plantations tours to visiting the Museum of Biodiversity (or Biomuseo), designed by Frank Gehry and built to showcase Panamanian biodiversity. You’ll gain a better sense of its diversity through this enjoyable interactive learning experience!
2. Casco Viejo
Panama’s Casco Viejo (or “old quarter”) is an absolute joy to discover. Just take a stroll down its pedestrian-friendly brick streets and you will discover historic 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings, centuries-old churches, hip wine bars, inviting coffee shops, eclectic museums, and lively plazas – not forgetting some incredible museums too!
At night, this neighborhood hosts many of the city’s trendiest rooftop bars and lively clubs. Locals tend to dress up when going out (no shorts!), so follow suit when going out. Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar serves up delicious shots of rum mixed with pineapple juice!
Art enthusiasts will find strolling along Casco’s mural-decorated walls an enjoyable activity. Look for works by Rolando de Sedas, a Panamanian artist renowned for filling urban spaces with patriotic imagery.
City shopping boutiques are also an attraction, providing visitors with plenty of upscale goods and souvenirs such as hand-woven textiles from indigenous communities, Panama hats with painted feather wristbands and other souvenirs from Panamanian. Additionally, Geisha coffee – considered one of the best and priciest varieties around – grows especially well in Chiriqui’s high altitude regions, making for an indulgent beverage without needing additional milk or sugar; try ordering it served in chocolate cups to further indulge!
3. Gatun Lake
Panama may be famous for its canal, but this Central American country offers far more than an engineering marvel. A short trip away from the capital will reveal breathtaking natural scenery, charming historic villages, and vibrant cultural events that you won’t want to miss!
Santa Catalina beaches provide laid-back surfers the opportunity to unwind and take in breathtaking views, while Coiba National Park’s jungle-covered isles provide an unspoiled habitat for wildlife enthusiasts. Also worth seeing: Frank Gehry’s bioMuseo in Latin America as its first and only project! A visit here should satisfy those curious about Panamanian biodiversity.
Panama’s Casco Viejo “old quarter,” designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, transports visitors back in time while offering stunning examples of 17th-century Spanish colonial architecture and offering tasty local fare served up in historic buildings – perfect for exploring with food in hand! Plus you’ll get amazing pictures of iconic landmarks!
Start off on a small-group tour to Gatun Lake, a manmade lake encased by rainforest that serves as the entranceway into Panama Canal. Here, see huge ships pass through, while island-dotted lakes like Gatun boast lush surroundings where sloths and other wildlife thrive. Next stop will be traditional indigenous villages, where local guides will explain more about Embera peoples language, ceremonial dance music and crafts (such as intricate basket-making or statue carving showcasing animal imagery) available there.
4. Chiriqui
Panama may be best known for its canal, but there’s much more to discover here for adventurous travellers. Experience an engaging blend of culture and nature at the Flower and Coffee Festival held annually in Chiriqui Highlands; this celebration pays a beautiful ode to Panama’s history of Spanish colonization and Roman Catholicism.
Small villages and family farms thrive along Panama’s Pacific coast beaches in its lower valleys, which is beloved by surfers due to its wide-open beaches which take the brunt of Pacific Ocean rollers. Though its sand may not be as soft, its unique grey/green hue makes this an idyllic surfing spot.
Tierras Altas District in Panama is known for its rich soils and favorable climate for growing crops such as vegetables and flowers, making this district Panama’s “vegetable and flower basket.” Home to numerous festivals that showcase local traditions and cultures – most notable is Guarare’s National Mejorana Festival where thousands come out each year to experience traditional Panamanian mejorana music and dance!
Boquete in western Panama offers visitors an exciting mountain paradise reminiscent of Switzerland. Boquete’s cool climate, charming shops and restaurants, as well as numerous outdoor excursions make it one of the top Panama tourist spots. Bird-watchers flock here in search of its endemic Quetzal bird – with striking green feathers and long tail.