Central Panama Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Central Panama with this comprehensive travel guide that includes the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Central Panama

Located in the heart of Panama, Central Panama is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. The region is home to some of the best museums and historical places, and it also offers plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best that Central Panama has to offer, from the top places to visit to the best things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Central Panama

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Panama Canal Museum

The Panama Canal Museum is a must-visit museum in Central Panama. Located in Casco Viejo, it offers a comprehensive look at the history of the Panama Canal, its construction, and its impact on the world. You can explore the interactive exhibits, watch films, and learn about the engineering and construction feats that made the canal possible.

Casco Viejo

As one of the most historic neighborhoods in Panama, Casco Viejo is known for its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and Spanish colonial architecture. The area is home to plenty of historic landmarks, including the Presidential Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Plaza de Francia.

Panama Viejo

Panama Viejo, also known as Old Panama, is the original capital of Panama. The city was founded in 1519 by the Spanish conquistadors, and it was the starting point of the gold trade between the Americas and Spain. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the old city, including the Cathedral Tower and the Governor’s Palace.

Natural Attractions of Central Panama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ancon Hill

Ancon Hill is a must-visit attraction for outdoor enthusiasts in Central Panama. The hill offers stunning panoramic views of Panama City and the Panama Canal. It’s also a great spot for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing the natural beauty of Central Panama.

Soberania National Park

Soberania National Park is one of the top natural attractions in Central Panama. The park covers more than 55,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including monkeys, sloths, butterflies, and birds. Visitors can explore the many hiking trails, take a boat ride along the Panama Canal, or go birdwatching at the popular Pipeline Road.

Taboga Island

Taboga Island, also known as the Island of Flowers, is a popular day trip from Panama City. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Central Panama, and visitors can also explore the town of San Pedro, which is known for its charming architecture and colorful buildings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Panama

Camino de Cruces National Park

The Camino de Cruces National Park is a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts in Central Panama. The park covers more than 5,000 acres and offers a range of trails for all skill levels. Visitors can explore the lush rainforest, spot wildlife, and enjoy the natural beauty of this protected area.

Ancon Hill Hike

The Ancon Hill Hike is a short but challenging trail that offers some of the best views of Panama City and the Panama Canal. The trail starts at the base of Ancon Hill and takes visitors up a steep ascent to the top of the hill. The hike takes about an hour to complete, and visitors are rewarded with stunning panoramic views at the top.

Best Things to Do in Central Panama: Activities and Tours

Panama Canal Boat Tour

A boat tour of the Panama Canal is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Central Panama. Visitors can watch the massive ships pass through the canal, learn about the engineering feats that made the canal possible, and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

City Tour of Panama City

Panama City is full of history, culture, and natural beauty, and a city tour is a great way to explore all that Central Panama has to offer. Visitors can explore the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood, visit museums and landmarks, and learn about the city’s traditions and customs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Panama

Day 1: Explore the historic Casco Viejo neighborhood and visit landmarks like the Presidential Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral. Day 2: Take a boat tour of the Panama Canal and learn about its history and construction. Day 3: Visit the Panama Canal Museum and learn more about the engineering and construction of the canal. Day 4: Hike or bike through the Camino de Cruces National Park and experience the natural beauty of Central Panama. Day 5: Take a day trip to Taboga Island and enjoy the beautiful beaches and charming architecture. Day 6: Explore Soberania National Park and spot wildlife, go birdwatching, or take a boat ride along the Panama Canal. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the food and drink scene of Central Panama, or visit local markets and buy souvenirs to bring home.

Food and Drink Scene of Central Panama

Must-Try Dishes

Sancocho

Sancocho is a hearty and flavorful soup that’s popular in Central Panama. It’s made with chicken or beef, yuca, plantains, corn, and other vegetables, and it’s often served with rice and avocado.

Ceviche

Ceviche is a popular seafood dish that’s made with raw fish, lime juice, and other ingredients like onions, cilantro, and peppers. It’s a refreshing and light dish that’s perfect for a hot day in Central Panama.

Local Beverages

Ron Abuelo

Ron Abuelo is a local rum that’s made in the province of Herrera. It’s made from sugar cane and aged in oak barrels, giving it a rich, smooth flavor. Visitors can take a tour of the Ron Abuelo distillery and learn about the rum-making process.

Geisha Coffee

Geisha coffee is a rare and highly prized variety of coffee that’s grown in the highlands of Central Panama. It has a unique, delicate flavor that’s loved by coffee connoisseurs around the world.

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

American Trade Hotel

The American Trade Hotel is a stylish and luxurious hotel located in the heart of Casco Viejo. The hotel features spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, a restaurant, and a bar that serves craft cocktails.

Central Hotel Panama

The Central Hotel Panama is a historic hotel that was built in 1874. It’s located in the heart of Panama City and features elegant rooms, a restaurant that serves traditional Panamanian cuisine, and a rooftop terrace with beautiful views.

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

Molas

Molas are colorful and intricate fabrics that are handmade by the Kuna Indians of the San Blas Islands. They’re often used to make clothing, bags, and other accessories, and they make a great souvenir to bring home from Central Panama.

Ron Abuelo Rum

Ron Abuelo rum is a local favorite in Central Panama, and it makes a great gift or souvenir to bring home. Visitors can buy bottles of rum at local stores or at the Ron Abuelo distillery.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Panama

Central Panama is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The people of Central Panama are friendly and hospitable, and visitors are always welcome to join in on local celebrations and events. Some customs to keep in mind include:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Tipping is not expected but appreciated in restaurants and bars
  • Greetings are important in Panama, so be sure to say hello and make eye contact with locals

Best Time to Visit Central Panama

The best time to visit Central Panama is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there’s less chance of rain. The rest of the year can be quite wet, so it’s best to plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Panama

Do:

  • Try local dishes like sancocho and ceviche
  • Explore the natural beauty of Central Panama by hiking or biking
  • Learn about the history of the Panama Canal at the Panama Canal Museum

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in religious sites
  • Drink tap water, always stick with bottled water
  • Walk around with expensive jewelry or flashy belongings

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Panama

While Central Panama is generally a safe place to visit, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. It’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Central Panama

Visitors to Central Panama should take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika, dengue fever, and malaria. It’s important to use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and avoid being outdoors during peak mosquito times.

Getting to Central Panama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Panama

  • Tocumen International Airport (PTY)

Bus Stations Near Central Panama

  • Albrook Bus Terminal
  • David Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Central Panama, but it’s important to negotiate the fare before getting in.
  • Rental Car: Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in Panama City, but it’s important to be aware of local traffic laws and road conditions.

How to Get Around in Central Panama

Central Panama is easily explored on foot in most areas. Taxis and buses are also a common way to get around. Uber is also available in Panama City.

Where to Go Next from Central Panama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Blas Islands

Located off the Caribbean coast of Panama, the San Blas Islands are a picturesque chain of islands known for their crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the islands and learn about the indigenous Kuna culture.

Boquete

Boquete is a small mountain town in western Panama that’s known for its coffee plantations, hiking trails, and natural hot springs. Visitors can explore the town’s charming streets, visit the local markets, or take a tour of the coffee plantations.

Conclusion

Central Panama is a vibrant and diverse region that offers something for everyone. From the history and culture of Panama City to the natural beauty of the national parks and islands, visitors are sure to be amazed by all that this region has to offer. Plan your trip today and experience the best of Central Panama!



    El Valle
    Panama City
    Pearl Islands
    Portobelo
    Taboga