21 Most Stunning 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 move by means of its lock system yearly. The Canal’s thread stretches throughout a collection of historical lakes and marshes, and its banks are adorned with a large strip of virgin forests.

For my part, the most effective place to look at ships is positioned northeast of Panama Metropolis, close to the partitions of the big seven-hundred-ton sluice gate Miraflores.

• Location: runs from Colón to Panama Metropolis
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: all yr spherical

My private highlights…

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

3. Playa Venao

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

I used to be a giant fan of this dreamy, laid again gem the place we stayed for every 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 beautiful coral reefs, tropical fish and even close by ship wrecks. The shore is dotted with diving faculties the place we may simply lease 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!

• Location: southern coast on the Azuero Peninsula 
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: finish of December to center April (the dry season)

My highlights…

• Taking newbie surf classes with Seaside Break Surf Camp.
• Having fun with cocktails and looking out on the sundown at Selina’s Seaside 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 series of islands within the mouth of the Chiriqui lagoon within the nation’s northeast. The archipelago consists of 9 comparatively giant islands, 52 small islands, and greater than 200 islets. It’s also a backpacking and vacationer magnificence spot.

Boasting inexperienced palm forests, an enormous shoreline of white sand, and crystal clear water, Bocas del Toro is considered one of Panama’s most well-known vacationer areas, and for good motive: it’s severely beautiful! Pristine landscapes are interspersed with fashionable resorts.

Followers of scuba diving and sea fishing flock to the islands all yr spherical to see among the greatest coral reefs on the planet, a lot beloved for his or her distinctive underwater gardens.

The snorkeling right here can also be chic and might simply spot stingrays, crabs, and many sorts of colourful tropical fish species.

• Location: northwest, close to the border with Costa Rica
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: February and March (the driest months)

My private highlights…

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

5. Casco Viejo

The enticing space of Casco Viejo sits east of Panama Metropolis, the nation’s capital and I beloved 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 essential buying and selling facilities on the continent.

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

Nonetheless, among the buildings survived till this present day, 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 towards pirates.

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

• Location: Panama Metropolis
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (the dry season) 

My private highlights…

• Sipping on a cup of espresso constructed from the well-known geisha beans, which have been regionally grown.
• Wandering to the Plaza Francia and photographing the skylines of the town.
• Searching 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 stage 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 price 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 encompassing 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.

• Location: centre of the nation, Coclé Province.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)

My highlights…

• Having fun with a dawn hike by way of the scenic Sleeping Indian Path.
• Crossing the excessive suspension bridge by means of the rainforest and reaching the beautiful El Macho Waterfall. 
• Visiting the colourful farmer’s market (which was open seven days every 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 turn out to be 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 a giant fan, too!

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

• Location:off the Pacific coast within the south
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)

My private highlights…

• Kayaking on the pristine waters, which took me previous attractive surroundings.
• Stress-free on the attractive Isla Saboga which provided a stunning 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 coated with pristine tropical forest. The tranquil waters across the islands are thought-about the most effective diving place, and I’d extremely advocate diving right here in case you can. They accommodate the second-largest coral reef within the japanese a part of the Pacific.

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

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

• Location: west, close to the border of Costa Rica
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My favourite highlights…

• Mountaineering the Misplaced Waterfalls Path, the place I found three breathtaking pure showers.
• Climbing as much as the 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 intensive swaths of tropical forest. It is likely one of the greatest birdwatching spots on the earth, inhabited by a couple of thousand feathered species.

Soberania Park is the one place to look at 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 commentary deck to see uncommon birds of their pure surroundings! 

Dense rainforests have various pure options that are perfect for climbing. The park’s spotlight is the hanging thickets of cotton bushes towering 60 meters above the sky. A number of the routes have comfy campgrounds.

• Location: heart of the nation
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My favourite highlights…

• Climbing as much as the Panama Rainforest Discovery Middle’s spiral staircase and seeing an unimaginable chook’s eye view above the cover.
• Mountaineering 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 considered one of Panama’s hottest vacationer sights. 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 japanese outskirts merge with the Jaramillo Mountains. Boquete begins an interesting seven-hour journey to the Baru volcano, the nation’s highest summit.

At its prime, you may 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’ll be able to discover the jungles teeming with unique birds, together with Quetzal, the sacred Indian chook with brilliant plumage and a protracted tail. Whereas climbing within the jungles, you’ll be able to try waterfalls and a mountain canyon with a pure water pool.

• Location: Chiriquí Province, west
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My private highlights…

• Attempting 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 unimaginable birdlife.

11. Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is likely one of the greatest 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 circulation fluctuate inside 8 meters, thus creating stable tides. The seashores are smeared with black volcanic sand and provide a shocking view of the solar setting behind the horizon. You may wish to discover different bay seashores simply outdoors Santa Catalina.

The stroll will take roughly 2.5-3.5 hours. You’ll be able to lease a small boat or a yacht for an unimaginable crusing expertise or a visit on the excessive seas.

• Location: Veraguas Province, south
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Watching the surfers experience the waves at La Punta Seaside.
• Watching the solar go down at La Coquita residence to spectacular black sand shadows at evening.
• Kayaking over to the white sand seashore on Isla Catalina and climbing as much as the point of view 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, have been used because the headquarters of the Pacific Steam Firm.

The pirates’ defences have been preserved to this present day. Moreover them, Isla Taboga is legendary for its seashores, commentary platform close to the partitions of the previous American navy bunker, the oldest in Latin America church of the XVI-XVII centuries, an array of tropical rainforests, quite a lot of hibiscus and bougainvillea gardens, and one of many largest colonies of brown pelicans.

• Location: 12 miles off the coast of Panama Metropolis
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Strolling by means of the quiet Spanish-settled village, which was full of 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 point of view at Cerro de la Cruz and seeing a spectacular view of the island and the encompassing 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’ll be able to see a panoramic shoreline sundown, therefore its title. 

Once you go to Sundown Coast, I recommend stopping by Coiba Nationwide Park to see essentially the most intensive coral reef within the Pacific. Soar in and go scuba diving or snorkeling to catch the gorgeous 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 below are additionally unimaginable; I used to be fortunate sufficient to identify a scarlet macaw! 

• Location: south
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Catching a powerful sundown over the shoreline with a tropical cocktail in hand!
• Going snorkeling and seeing the beautiful coral reef. 
• Attempting 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 particular person per experience. A mini grocery store greets you when the bus drops you off so you’ll be able to choose up any snacks or seashore provides you want. 

It’s a quick stroll to the canyons and waters, the place you’ll be able to privately sunbathe, swim, and sightsee, relying on how many individuals are close by.

I’d recommend packing a giant picnic to benefit from the attractive views after a enjoyable swim within the water! 

• Location: Gualaca, approx. a 40 minuted drive from Boquete
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)

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 by means of 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 exquisite. 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 stunning 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’ll sting even when they’re lifeless, so tread with warning! 

• Location: Chame District, Panamá Oeste Province
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)

My private highlights…

• Hiring a paddleboard which was a enjoyable strategy to discover the coast!
• Exploring the petite metropolis’s fishing village and surrounding areas by bike.
• Attempting kite browsing! The ocean circumstances listed below 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 bushes encompass the small island.

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

Essentially the most distinctive side 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, lease one of many 30 campsites obtainable. Then, the subsequent day, you’ll be able to discover extra of the territory. 

• Location: San Blas, east of the nation
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My favourite highlights…

• Going snorkeling within the clear turquoise waters and discovering a shipwreck and a fairly coral reef.
• Capturing photos of the dreamy palm bushes and beautiful clear water for my Instagram.
• Attempting 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 comfy climate, residential colonial-style buildings, and lots 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, lots of which, such because the Lesser Frigatebird, are underneath state safety.

It’s also a reptile habitat, together with the black iguana named the Island. Tropical fish, moray eels, and turtles stay within the waters, whereas humpback whales keep right here briefly through the migration seasons.

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

• Location: south-eastern tip of the Azuero Peninsula
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

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 stay bands!
• Happening an unimaginable 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 every part you want: sunbeds, umbrellas, coastal bars with varied unique drinks, and comfy 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 really perfect backdrop for diving, snorkeling, and browsing. If you wish to study extra in regards to the traditions and customs of Panama, make sure to 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 attraction when you’ve got spare hours.

• Location: Portobelo District, Colón Province
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Sipping on a handcrafted signature cocktail at The OC Bar & Lounge which provided beautiful views overlooking the Caribbean Ocean.
• Taking a ship tour across the shoreline and seeing stunning 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 could recharge your batteries, I recommend stopping at considered one of its cosmopolitan eating places.

• Location: east-central a part of the nation 
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Wandering by means of Casco Viejo’s streets and admiring the Outdated City Quarter’s fairly structure.
• Testing the massive Artisan Market which was full of 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, implausible structure, and interesting historical past, and I’d extremely advocate 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 legendary for its annual full of life actions, together with its carnival. Pedasí is your home in case you are a browsing and nature fan.

An enthralling fishing city surrounded by Spanish colonial structure. The West space is well-known for its beautiful seashores and give attention to farming.

• Location: south
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Attending the fabulous and really Carnaval de Las Tablas (which takes place right here each February)
• Dancing the evening away at a wonderful seashore social gathering.
• 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 toes in elevation, and it takes solely half-hour to finish the whole 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’ll be able to 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. 

• Location: Panama Metropolis, Panamá Province
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My private highlights…

• Photographing the breathtaking surroundings at varied stops alongside the path.
• Seeing unimaginable views of the Panama Canal.