Panama is a diverse destination that blends natural wonders, rich history and vibrant culture. The capital is a striking mix of old and new, where many stories and tales of its colourful past become very apparent and intriguing. The old town, known as there Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with colourful buildings, roof top bars and cobblestone streets and is a great place to start or end your holiday.
No visit to Panama is complete without seeing the incredible feat of engineering that is The Panama Canal. The Miraflores Locks Visitor Centre invites tourists to watch the massive ships pass through, with an excellent museum explaining it’s history.
Nature and Wildlife Panama punches well above its weight for biodiversity. The rainforests of Soberania are only 30 minutes from the capital. Bocas del Toro on the north coast offer Caribbean beaches, mangroves and snorkelling. The Chiriqui Highlands around Boquete are perfect for hikers, outdoor adventurers and birders.
Panama is home to over 1000 bird species, 250 mammal species and 10,000 plant species. Sloths, howler monkeys, caiman, sea turtles and whales are commonly spotted. It is a world-class destination for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers worldwide.
Beaches and Islands San Blas Islands on the north coast are a spectacular groups of islands autonomously ruled by the Gula Yala People. The way to explore here is by spending a few days on a catamaran with crew and there are no decent lodges to speak of. On the South coast, below Chiriqui is Boca Chica where beautiful beaches and lodges are found, most notable Islas Secas and Isla Palenque.
Food and Culture Panamanian cuisine feature rice, plantains, seafood and hearty stews like “sancocho“. There are outstanding restaurants in Panama City so it’s highly recommended to spend a few nights here to enjoy all the flavours and up-and-coming chefs.
Panama rewards travellers who are looking for beaches, jungle, wildlife and history – all in one compact country
Travel Info
WHEN TO GO: There are many different climate patterns around the country. The dry season is from December to April on the Pacific Coast and wet from May to November. The heaviest rainfall is September to November. On the Caribbean coast, it is drier between March and September. The migration and whale season is also a highlight July-Oct. Please bear in mind, it can rain anytime of year!
WHO FOR: A tropical paradise, pristine national parks are ideal for the nature and wildlife enthusiast. Also an excellent destination for families thanks to the mass of activities on offer and excellent choice of accommodation.
TYPE OF HOLIDAY: Honeymoon, Family Adventure, Nature and Wildlife.
Need to Know
CURRENCY: USD
LANGUAGE: Spanish
CAPITAL: Panama City
FLIGHT TIME: 13 hours (In-Direct Flights from UK)
VISA: Not needed for UK passport holders
TIME DIFFERENCE: GMT – 5 hours
COMBINES WELL WITH: Costa Rica and Colombia