Panama Travel Guide (Central America/North America)

Comprehensive Guide to Panama
Introduction to Panama
List of Places to Visit in Panama
Food and Drink Scene of Panama
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Panama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Panama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Panama
Best Time to Visit Panama
Do’s and Don’ts of Panama
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Panama
- Health in Panama
Getting to Panama: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Panama
Where to Go Next from Panama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Comprehensive Guide to Panama

Are you planning a trip to Panama and looking for some travel tips? Look no further! From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and delicious culinary delights, Panama has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink, safety and health, and transportation options to help you plan the ultimate Panama itinerary.

Introduction to Panama

Panama is a small country located in Central America, bordering with Colombia and Costa Rica. It’s famous for the Panama Canal, which allows ships to navigate between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. But Panama has more to offer than just the canal. From pristine beaches to lush rainforests and towering mountains, Panama has a diverse landscape that makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Panama

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Panama City, the capital of Panama, has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Some of the most culturally important attractions in Panama City include:

Panama Canal Museum
Casco Viejo
Panama Viejo
Biomuseo
Mi Pueblito

Natural Attractions of Panama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Panama is known for its outdoor adventures and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top natural attractions to visit in Panama:

San Blas Islands
Boquete
Santa Catalina
Bocas del Toro
Coiba Island National Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Panama

Panama is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the top hiking/biking routes in Panama include:

Ancon Hill
Metropolitano Natural Park
Camino de Cruces
Baru Volcano National Park
Chiriqui Highlands

Best Things to Do in Panama: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture buff, there’s no shortage of things to do in Panama. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

Snorkeling and scuba diving in Bocas del Toro
Zip-lining in Boquete
White-water rafting in Chiriqui
Visiting indigenous communities in San Blas Island
Surfing in Santa Catalina

Week-Long Itinerary for Panama

If you’re planning a visit to Panama and have a week to spare, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Panama City and explore the Casco Viejo neighborhood
Day 2: Visit the Panama Canal Museum and the Biomuseo
Day 3: Head to Bocas del Toro for some island-hopping and water activities
Day 4: Take a road trip to Boquete and explore the coffee plantations
Day 5: Go hiking in the Baru Volcano National Park
Day 6: Visit the San Blas Islands and learn about the indigenous communities
Day 7: Relax on the beaches of Santa Catalina before departing for home

Food and Drink Scene of Panama

No trip to Panama is complete without trying its delicious cuisine and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Sancocho: a traditional hearty soup made with chicken, cilantro, and yucca
Arroz con pollo: rice with chicken cooked in a flavorful broth
Ceviche: raw fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and cilantro
Patacones: twice-fried plantains that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside
Empanadas: turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables

Local Beverages

Seco: a traditional sugarcane liquor that’s usually served with lime and soda
Cerveza Panama: a light beer that’s popular with locals
Chicha: a fermented corn drink that’s sweet and refreshing

Where to Stay in Panama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Panama has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top places to stay in Panama:

American Trade Hotel (Panama City)
Magnolia Inn (Casco Viejo)
The Lodge at Doña Lee (Boquete)
Selina Hostel (Bocas del Toro)
Hotel Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina)

What to Buy in Panama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Panama is known for its handicrafts and traditional products. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home:

Panama hats: straw hats that are handwoven in Ecuador and finished in Panama
Molas: colorful traditional fabric made by the Kuna indigenous people
Rum: Panama produces some of the finest rum in the world
Coffee: Panama’s high-quality coffee is famous for its rich flavor and aroma
Handmade jewelry: intricate pieces crafted by local artisans

Local Culture and Customs of Panama

Panama has a rich cultural heritage that’s influenced by its indigenous communities and colonial past. Here are some customs and traditions to be aware of:

Greetings: Panamanians usually greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek
Dress code: Casual wear is acceptable in most places, but more formal attire is expected in some restaurants and clubs
Siesta: Many shops and businesses close during the midday hours for a siesta
Respect for elders: Showing respect for older people is important in Panamanian culture

Best Time to Visit Panama

Panama has a tropical climate, with high humidity and temperatures averaging 80°F year-round. The best time to visit Panama is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The rainy season lasts from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in October and November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Panama

Do:

Try the local cuisine
Learn a few phrases in Spanish
Take a boat tour through the Panama Canal
Visit the indigenous communities in San Blas Island
Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites

Don’t:

Drink tap water
Bring valuables to the beach
Haggle with street vendors too aggressively
Speak loudly in public
Show disrespect for the Panamanian flag and national anthem

Safety and Health

Safety in Panama

Panama is a relatively safe country, but visitors should exercise caution in some areas. Here are some safety tips for travelers:

Avoid walking alone at night
Keep valuables out of sight
Use reputable taxi services
Be aware of your surroundings

Health in Panama

Visitors to Panama should take certain health precautions. Here are some tips:

Drink bottled water
Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites
Get vaccinated against yellow fever
Carry a basic first-aid kit

Getting to Panama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Panama

Panama has two international airports:

Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City
Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) in David

Bus Stations Near Panama

Panama’s main bus terminal is the Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City. It’s also possible to travel by bus to neighboring countries such as Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

Other Options

There are also several ferry services that connect Panama City to neighboring islands and coastal towns. Taxis and rental cars are also available for getting around.

How to Get Around in Panama

Panama has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and rental cars. Public buses are the most affordable way to get around, but taxis are more convenient. Rental cars are also available, but driving in Panama can be challenging.

Where to Go Next from Panama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Panama is located in an ideal location for exploring neighboring countries in Central America and the Caribbean. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Costa Rica: This neighboring country is known for its stunning natural beauty and eco-tourism activities.
Colombia: Panama shares a border with Colombia, and it’s possible to travel between the two countries by boat or plane.
San Blas Islands: These idyllic islands are located off the coast of Panama and are home to the Kuna indigenous people.
El Valle de Anton: This picturesque town is located in the mountains of Panama and is known for its thermal springs and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Panama is a hidden gem in Central America, with stunning natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. From exploring the Panama Canal and hiking in the Baru Volcano National Park to relaxing on the beaches of Santa Catalina, there’s something for everyone in Panama. Use this comprehensive guide to plan the ultimate Panama itinerary and make the most of your visit to this amazing country.