21 Most Lovely Locations To Go to In Panama

2. Panama Canal

The monumental Canal is likely one of the fashionable world wonders. The Panama Canal is 82 kilometers lengthy and connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Greater than 12,000 ocean-bound vessels go via its lock system yearly. The Canal’s thread stretches throughout a sequence of historical lakes and marshes, and its banks are adorned with a large strip of virgin forests.

In my view, one of the best place to watch ships is positioned northeast of Panama Metropolis, close to the partitions of the big seven-hundred-ton sluice gate Miraflores.

My private highlights…

• Exploring the Miraflores Customer Heart, a four-story interactive museum and studying in regards to the canal’s historical past.
• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot overlooking the canal. 
• Seeing the locks working! 

3. Playa Venao

The Azuero Peninsula is thought for its gorgeous seashores and is most well-known is the favored seashore resort of Playa Venao, which is 35 km from Pedasi.

I used to be an enormous fan of this dreamy, laid again gem the place we stayed for per week and didn’t get bored! It actually was a stunning tropical paradise. 

Water sports activities fans worldwide rush to Playa Venao to hone and showcase their browsing abilities and its additionally an awesome diving spot too as its residence to gorgeous coral reefs, tropical fish and even close by ship wrecks. The shore is dotted with diving faculties the place we might simply hire gear and take classes from skilled instructors.

I like to recommend simply kicking again, sunbathing on the lengthy, extensive sandy seashore, taking a swim within the heat sea, eating at one of many many funky seashore eating places (many had DJs), or simply sipping on a signature cocktail at one of many open-air bars and gazing on the waves like we did!

My highlights…

• Taking surf classes on the native surf faculty.
• Having fun with cocktails and looking out on the sundown at Selina’s Seashore Bar (there are additionally some full of life seashore events after darkish).
• Stress-free with a rejuvenating therapeutic massage on the Nourish Spa.

4. Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is a sequence of islands within the mouth of the Chiriqui lagoon within the nation’s northeast. The archipelago consists of 9 comparatively massive islands, 52 small islands, and greater than 200 islets. It is usually a backpacking and vacationer magnificence spot.

Boasting inexperienced palm forests, an unlimited shoreline of white sand, and crystal clear water, Bocas del Toro is one in all Panama’s most well-known vacationer areas, and for good cause: it’s critically gorgeous! Pristine landscapes are interspersed with fashionable resorts.

Followers of scuba diving and sea fishing flock to the islands all yr spherical to see a number of the finest coral reefs on the planet, a lot cherished for his or her distinctive underwater gardens. The snorkeling right here can be elegant and may simply spot stingrays, crabs, and many types of colourful tropical fish species.

My private highlights…

• Renting an E-bike (from Flying Pirates Bocas) and using round Bocas City then heading to the beautiful Playa Bluff seashore.
• Strolling alongside the breathtaking white sand seashores and photographing the spectacular sea views.
• Watching the skilled surfers trip the unbelievable waves.

5. Casco Viejo

The engaging space of Casco Viejo sits east of Panama Metropolis, the nation’s capital and I cherished this place! That is the very first settlement constructed by Europeans on the Pacific coast. It was based in 1519 and shortly turned one of the crucial necessary buying and selling facilities on the continent.

The transit route from Peru to the Previous World, carrying the Incas’ gold and silver, ran via the city. In 1671, a pirate raid led by Henry Morgan virtually razed Panama Viejo, abandoning numerous ruins.

Nonetheless, a number of the buildings survived till today, specifically, the sq. tower of the Cathedral de Panama Viejo, ruins of Santo Domingo and San Francisco convents, the well-preserved La Merced church and San José temple, the King’s Bridge, in addition to remnants of the partitions that served as safety in opposition to pirates.

On the finish of the previous century, the previous quarters of Panama Viejo had been acknowledged as UNESCO World Heritage websites.

My private highlights…

• Sipping on a cup of espresso produced from the well-known geisha beans, which had been regionally grown.
• Wandering to the Plaza Francia and photographing the skylines of the town.
• Looking for the colourful handmade conventional crafts.

6. El Valle de Antón

El Valle de Anton is a city and eponymous nature reserve settled within the crater of a long-extinct volcano that rises to 600 m above sea degree and has a diameter of just about 5 km.

The reserve is valued for its distinctive moist mountain forest ecosystem, and for my part, it’s value visiting. The jungle is carved by vacationer routes main from one attraction to a different. The spellbinding waterfalls Chorro de Las Mozas and Chorro El Macho are the highlights of El Valle de Anton.

The encircling forests are steeped in orchids and the nationwide flower of Panama, Flor del Espiritu Santo (The flower of the Holy Spirit). The ample foliage conceals Rana Dorada, a uncommon frog with an amusing look.

Because of its volcanic origin, this place has preserved some traces of geothermal exercise, boiling thermal springs, and therapeutic mud swimming pools that includes a singular mineral composition.

My highlights…

• Having fun with a dawn hike by way of the scenic Sleeping Indian Path.
• Crossing the excessive suspension bridge via the rainforest and reaching the gorgeous El Macho Waterfall. 
• Visiting the colourful farmer’s market (which was open seven days per week) and sampling native meals and produce, such because the tasty deep-fried skinny plantains.

7. Pearl Islands

The Pearl Islands lie 40 miles southeast of Panama Metropolis within the Gulf of Panama. Comprised of 97 islands, the archipelago turned identified to Europeans in 1513 when an Indian chief revealed a secret in regards to the mysterious islands adorned with pearls.

Since then, pearl mining has develop into the main commerce on the islands. Nonetheless, the archipelago turned one of many favorite vacation locations for the nice and the nice (former US President Jimmy Carter, Spanish Prime Minister Adolfo Suarez Gonzalez, and the Shah of Iran stayed right here), and I used to be an enormous fan, too!

The Pearl Islands have 83 wonderful seashores, quite a few beautiful resorts and visitor homes, and one of the crucial engaging snorkeling spots.

My private highlights…

• Kayaking on the pristine waters, which took me previous beautiful surroundings.
• Stress-free on the beautiful Isla Saboga which supplied a beautiful restaurant and nice snorkelling.
• Exploring the luxurious jungles on foot with an area information.

8. Gulf of Chiriquí

Based in 1994, the Gulf of Chiriquí Nationwide Marine Park is positioned on the Pacific coast of Panama within the bay of the identical title.

The park is unfold throughout 25 volcanic islands lined with pristine tropical forest. The tranquil waters across the islands are thought of one of the best diving place, and I’d extremely suggest diving right here for those who can. They accommodate the second-largest coral reef within the jap a part of the Pacific.

Divers can contact reef inhabitants reminiscent of whales, sharks, manta rays, and dolphins. The jagged volcanic peaks rising 30-60 meters above sea degree are replete with numerous species, whereas the coastal areas enable recognizing relict types of wildlife.

As an example, super-cute sea turtles will be noticed nesting on the native seashores.

My favourite highlights…

• Climbing the Misplaced Waterfalls Path, the place I found three breathtaking pure showers.
• Climbing as much as the very best peak in Panama, Volcan Baru Nationwide Park and discovering awe-inspiring views overlooking the ocean.
• Eating on tasty deep-fried vegetable tempura on the stylish Christopher’s American Bistro. 

9. Soberania Nationwide Park

Situated 40 km north of Panama Metropolis, the Soberania Nationwide Park boasts in depth swaths of tropical forest. It is likely one of the finest birdwatching spots on the earth, inhabited by a few thousand feathered species.

Soberania Park is the one place to watch the Topped Eagle and the Sunbittern. The park retooled the previous five-floor radar tower to make birdwatching extra handy. I recommend heading for his or her remark deck to see uncommon birds of their pure surroundings! 

Dense rainforests have numerous pure options that are perfect for climbing. The park’s spotlight is the placing thickets of cotton timber towering 60 meters above the sky. A number of the routes have snug campgrounds.

My favourite highlights…

• Climbing as much as the Panama Rainforest Discovery Heart’s spiral staircase and seeing an unbelievable fowl’s eye view above the cover.
• Climbing the scenic Plantation Highway path which was residence to a number of waterfall viewpoints and unique tropical vegetation.
• Going for a swim within the pure swimming pools of the El Charco Path, surrounded by picnic spots and scenic magnificence.

10. Boquete

A small village, Boquete is one in all Panama’s hottest vacationer points of interest. It’s additionally very fairly. Nestled within the valley of the Caldera River, it’s surrounded by mountains on three sides, which largely decide its panorama.

Within the west, Boquete borders the Baru volcano. From the north, the city is confined by the Talamanca mountain vary. Town’s jap outskirts merge with the Jaramillo Mountains. Boquete begins an enchanting seven-hour journey to the Baru volcano, the nation’s highest summit.

At its prime, you can be amazed by the magnificent view of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The city additionally options cozy parks, espresso plantations, and an deserted palace (I like to recommend visiting!).

Accompanied by a information, you possibly can discover the jungles teeming with unique birds, together with Quetzal, the sacred Indian fowl with shiny plumage and an extended tail. Whereas climbing within the jungles, you possibly can take a look at waterfalls and a mountain canyon with a pure water pool.

My private highlights…

• Making an attempt out the enjoyable zipline, which missed the forest.
• Happening the hanging bridges tour, the bridge right here is Central America’s second longest and highest.
• Happening an fascinating jungle tour and seeing unbelievable birdlife.

11. Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is likely one of the finest browsing spots in Panama. This small village is positioned within the Veraguas province on the coast of the Gulf of Chiriquí. Santa Catalina’s seashores, Playa Santa Catalina and Playa Estero are identified for mighty waves as much as 10 meters excessive.

The ebb and move fluctuate inside 8 meters, thus creating strong tides. The seashores are smeared with black volcanic sand and provide a shocking view of the solar setting behind the horizon. You may need to discover different bay seashores simply outdoors Santa Catalina.

The stroll will take roughly 2.5-3.5 hours. You possibly can hire a small boat or a yacht for an unbelievable crusing expertise or a visit on the excessive seas.

My highlights…

• Watching the surfers trip the waves at La Punta Seashore.
• Watching the solar go down at La Coquita residence to spectacular black sand shadows at night time.
• Kayaking over to the white sand seashore on Isla Catalina and climbing as much as the perspective on the island.

12. Isla Taboga

Twenty kilometers from Panama Metropolis is the charming, historic Taboga Island. 4 centuries in the past, it was the positioning of the primary deepwater port within the area.

Frequent pirate raids compelled the locals to construct a system of defensive buildings on the close by Island of El Morro.

That they had served for 300 years and, within the XIX century, had been used because the headquarters of the Pacific Steam Firm.

The pirates’ defences have been preserved to today. In addition to them, Isla Taboga is known for its seashores, remark platform close to the partitions of the previous American army bunker, the oldest in Latin America church of the XVI-XVII centuries, an array of tropical rainforests, a wide range of hibiscus and bougainvillea gardens, and one of many largest colonies of brown pelicans.

My highlights…

• Strolling via the quiet Spanish-settled village, which was stuffed with fairly colourful homes.
• Spending the day sunbathing on Playa Restinga and strolling alongside the sandbar to Isla El Morro throughout low tide.
• Strolling to the perspective at Cerro de la Cruz and seeing a spectacular view of the island and the encircling ocean.

13. Sundown Coast, Azuero Peninsula

Sundown Coast is known as for its expansive shoreline within the western portion of the Azuero Peninsula. You’ll love visiting Sundown Coast as a result of, with the Azuero Peninsula’s form, that is the one space the place you possibly can see a wide ranging shoreline sundown, therefore its title. 

Once you go to Sundown Coast, I recommend stopping by Coiba Nationwide Park to see probably the most in depth coral reef within the Pacific. Soar in and go scuba diving or snorkeling to catch the attractive coral reef. I like to recommend deep-sea diving for probably the greatest undersea experiences worldwide! 

Jaguars, crested eagles, and howler monkeys inhabit Coiba Nationwide Park and the bird-watching alternatives listed here are additionally unbelievable; I used to be fortunate sufficient to identify a scarlet macaw! 

My highlights…

• Catching an impressive sundown over the shoreline with a tropical cocktail in hand!
• Going snorkeling and seeing the beautiful coral reef. 
• Making an attempt enjoyable boogie boarding (which was simpler than my surf classes)!

14. Los Cangilones

Los Cangliones is your go-to vacation spot for village purchasing and canyon views whereas leaping within the close by waters. The bus to get there’s low-cost and solely prices $1.50 per individual per trip. A mini grocery store greets you when the bus drops you off so you possibly can decide up any snacks or seashore provides you want. 

It’s a brief stroll to the canyons and waters, the place you possibly can privately sunbathe, swim, and sightsee, relying on how many individuals are close by.

I’d recommend packing an enormous picnic to benefit from the beautiful views after a enjoyable swim within the water! 

My favourite highlights…

• Shopping for a packed lunch on the native grocery store and spending a day by the canyons.
• Watching the braver guests leap off the pure rock formations into the aqua-colored waters.
• Swimming via the crystal-clear canyon that stretches over 40 meters in size.

15. Punta Chame

Punta Chame is a tiny metropolis with solely a inhabitants of 443, however the seashores are untouched and delightful. The waters to the left are shallower and calmer, so it’s simpler so that you can go kitesurfing. 

Stroll the white sand for a beautiful beachside expertise. Be ready as a result of it goes 22 miles lengthy. A portion of the seashore meets the Pacific Ocean. Make it an entire day journey to discover this stretch of seashore land to see its huge magnificence whereas taking some swims in between. 

Be aware of jellyfish within the water or washed up on the seashore. They will sting even when they’re useless, so tread with warning. 

My private highlights…

• Hiring a paddleboard which was a enjoyable method to discover the coast!
• Exploring the petite metropolis’s fishing village and surrounding areas by bike.
• Making an attempt kite browsing! The ocean circumstances listed here are excellent for all talents.

16. Isla Perro

This paradise-like Island is a part of the San Blas Islands however deserves a particular point out. Crystal blue waters and tropical palm timber encompass the small island.

Due to its clear waters, snorkelers like to discover marine life all through Guna Yala. 

Essentially the most distinctive facet of Isla Perro is the shipwreck in entrance of the Island. Snorkelers can discover artefacts from the military gunboat washed ashore a few years in the past. You might even see the rusty bow protruding from the water with a low tide. 

If you don’t want the water journey to finish, hire one of many 30 campsites accessible. Then, the following day, you possibly can discover extra of the territory. 

My favourite highlights…

• Going snorkeling within the clear turquoise waters and discovering a shipwreck and a reasonably coral reef.
• Capturing photographs of the dreamy palm timber and gorgeous clear water for my Instagram.
• Making an attempt volleyball on their court docket (I wasn’t a lot good, although, sadly)! 

17. Pedasi

Pedasi is a small fishing city well-known for year-round snug climate, residential colonial-style buildings, and plenty of seashores in its neighborhood.

The primary pure spotlight of Pedasi is Isla Iguana. This nature reserve occupies 52 hectares and is surrounded by coral reefs. Greater than 62 species of birds discovered their residence right here, a lot of which, such because the Lesser Frigatebird, are below state safety.

It is usually a reptile habitat, together with the black iguana named the Island. Tropical fish, moray eels, and turtles dwell within the waters, whereas humpback whales keep right here briefly throughout the migration seasons.

The native waters are bristling with numerous fish, together with ten tuna species. So, I’d suggest wildlife recognizing right here! 

My private highlights…

• Indulging in scrumptious freshly made ceviche at Restaurante El Chichemito.
• Attending the enjoyable Barro Fest in February and watching a great deal of dwell bands!
• Happening an unbelievable Turtle Watching Tour and recognizing tremendous cute sea turtles.

18. Isla Grande

Isla Grande, the nation’s largest Island, is positioned 15 km from the historic city Portobelo. The coast of the Island homes magnificent seashores with white sand and turquoise water.

Suppose you resolve to take in the solar. The seashores have all the things you want: sunbeds, umbrellas, coastal bars with numerous unique drinks, and comfortable eating places to get acquainted with conventional Panamanian delicacies. Energetic recreation buffs will discover many interesting actions, too.

The waters of Isla Grande are dripping with coral reefs, creating a great backdrop for diving, snorkeling, and browsing. If you wish to study extra in regards to the traditions and customs of Panama, be sure you go to one of many native resorts with an genuine Caribbean vibe.

I like to recommend stopping by Portobello and having fun with its medieval allure if in case you have spare hours.

My highlights…

• Sipping on a handcrafted signature cocktail at The OC Bar & Lounge which supplied gorgeous views overlooking the Caribbean Ocean.
• Taking a ship tour across the shoreline and seeing lovely vegetation panorama.
• Eating on freshly made sushi at La Playita restaurant.

19. Panama Metropolis

The capital of Panama is a contemporary, thriving metropolis stretched 10 km alongside the Pacific coast from the ruins of Panama Viejo within the east to the coast of the Panama Canal within the west.

The spotlight of Panama Metropolis is vibrant contrasts, a fusion of historical historical past and up to date structure of the XXI century.

Just like the United Arab Emirates, its enterprise heart has formidable skyscrapers. Vigorous, fashionable areas are facet by facet with quiet streets imbued with historical past.

Town has a enterprise really feel, so I believe it doesn’t have a lot for vacationers right here, however the metropolis’s most picturesque historic district is the previous city of San Felipe. This space impresses with historical structure and miraculously preserved traditions.

I like to recommend exploring the sq., museums, church buildings, and the monastery ruins. If you should recharge your batteries, I recommend stopping at one in all its cosmopolitan eating places.

My highlights…

• Wandering via Casco Viejo’s streets and admiring the Previous City Quarter’s fairly structure.
• Trying out the big Artisan Market which was stuffed with handcrafted merchandise.
• Visiting Plaza De La Independencia which was residence to boutiques and conventional eating places.

20. Península de Azuero

The Azuero Peninsula is an unassuming place that blends wealthy tradition, improbable structure, and engaging historical past, and I’d extremely suggest visiting! 

The peninsula consists of three provinces: Herrera, Los Santos, and Veraguas, leading to two areas – The East and the West. The East space is known for its annual full of life actions, together with its carnival. Pedasí is your home in case you are a browsing and nature fan.

A captivating fishing city surrounded by Spanish colonial structure. The West space is well-known for its gorgeous seashores and deal with farming.

My highlights…

• Attending the fabulous and really Carnaval de Las Tablas (which takes place right here each February)
• Dancing the night time away at a superb seashore get together.
• Stress-free at Sansara Surf and Yoga Resort.

21. Cerro Ancon

Cerro Ancon is a small path hike surrounded by canyons and waterfalls. I’d recommend beginning your journey on the Mi Pueblito trailhead. Journey the stairway at this entrance to start the trek. 

It’s free to hike the world of 654 ft in elevation, and it takes solely half-hour to finish all the enterprise. The path is residence to a jungle inside a metropolis of over 1 million people. 

Look ahead to the incline as you hike. Throughout your journey, you possibly can see Casa Viejo, which has scenic views of the Panama Canal. The Bridge of the Americas is a sight to behold above the Canal. 

The Miraflores Locks is likely one of the three locks all through the Panama Canal and is known as after the gate to the Pacific. 

My private highlights…

• Photographing the breathtaking surroundings at numerous stops alongside the path.
• Seeing unbelievable views of the Panama Canal.