19 Most Stunning Locations To Go to In Panama

This Central American gem attracts vacationers and backpackers with its laid-back environment and jaw-dropping spots, from surf resorts and charming islands to tranquil mountain retreats and prime diving areas. Listed below are my favourite highlights I’d like to share with you…

1. San Blas Islands

The gorgeous islands of the San Blas archipelago stretch alongside the Caribbean coast of Panama from San Blas Bay to the Colombian border. Many backpackers love this spot and journey right here earlier than or after exploring Costa Rica.

Go to San Blas islands, and you’ll journey 20 centuries again into the previous to find conventional Indian crafts, hear charming legends, and familiarize your self with Indian music and dances; it’s a gem! 

The economic system of the islands is predicated on coconut cultivation and tourism. My private favourite islands included Achutupu which was full of a wealthy Guna tradition, the much less commercialized Kagantupu, and Coco Blanco which was my favourite island for snorkeling.

Location: off the northern coast of the nation within the Guna Yala area.
Location Map
Greatest time to go to: January to April (the dry season)

My favourite highlights…

Spending an evening in an Instagram-worthy over-water cabin which had a pure trying rustic-chic design to slot in with the undeveloped vibe and restrictions of the islands. 
Happening a 4-day island hopping boat tour which was a significantly dreamy expertise – I particularly cherished assembly with a neighborhood Kuna household and attending to know their attention-grabbing lifestyle! 
Going snorkeling and seeing the attractive coral reefs and seeing brightly coloured parrotfish and angelfish! 

2. 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.

I cherished its vibrant contrasts, a fusion of historical historical past and modern structure of the XXI century. Its enterprise heart has formidable skyscrapers and full of life, trendy areas sit facet by facet with quiet streets infused with historical past.

I’ve to confess although, the town has a business-focused really feel, however there are some gems to be discovered. My favourite half was the picturesque historic district, the Previous City of San Felipe which had historical structure and impressively preserved traditions.

I additionally hung out folks watching in Plaza Mayor and exploring the museums, church buildings, and the monastery ruins, then recharging my batteries by stopping at one among its many cosmopolitan eating places.

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

My highlights…

Staying on the attractive and distinctive Lodge La Compania – I completely adored its excellent Casco Viejo location and the Seventeenth-century Jesuit convent it was housed in! 
Trying out the massive Artisan Market which was full of handcrafted merchandise.
Visiting Plaza De La Independencia which was dwelling to stylish boutiques and conventional eating places.

3. Playa Venao

The Azuero Peninsula is understood 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 beautiful tropical paradise. 

Water sports activities lovers worldwide rush to Playa Venao to hone and exhibit their browsing abilities and its additionally a terrific diving spot too as its dwelling 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 cherished simply kicking again, sunbathing on the lengthy, extensive sandy seashore, taking a swim within the heat sea, eating on the funky seashore eating places (many had DJs too!), and simply sipping on a signature cocktail at an open-air bars and gazing on the waves!

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

My highlights…

Staying on the really distinctive Alaya Yoga & Surf & Retreat – I cherished the Insta-worthy pods, the unbelievable views, the dreamy personal scorching tub and the zen-like yoga lessons!
Having fun with a melon cocktail whereas gazing on the sundown at Selina’s Seashore Bar – there have been additionally some full of life seashore events after darkish too!
Stress-free with a rejuvenating scorching stone therapeutic massage on the attractive Nourish Spa – my therapist was simply so beautiful too! 

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 is usually a backpacking and vacationer magnificence spot.

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

Followers of scuba diving and sea fishing flock to the islands all 12 months spherical to see a few of the greatest 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 sorts of colourful tropical fish species.

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

My private highlights…

Staying in a heavenly overwater bungalow on the eco-friendly Sol Bungalows – waking as much as the ocean views each morning from the personal deck was a really idyllic expertise! 
Renting an E-bike (from Flying Pirates Bocas) and driving round Bocas City then heading to the attractive Playa Bluff seashore.

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 grew to become probably the most necessary buying and selling facilities on the continent.

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

Nonetheless, a few of the buildings survived till at the present time, particularly, 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
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season) 

My private highlights…

Sipping on a cup of espresso comprised of the well-known geisha beans, which have been domestically 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 in my view, 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
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)

My highlights…

Having fun with a dawn hike through the scenic Sleeping Indian Path.
Crossing the excessive suspension bridge by way 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 grew to become recognized to Europeans in 1513 when an Indian chief revealed a secret concerning the mysterious islands adorned with pearls.

Since then, pearl mining has change into the main commerce on the islands. Nonetheless, the archipelago grew to become 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 glorious seashores, quite a few beautiful motels and visitor homes, and probably the most engaging snorkeling spots.

Location:off the Pacific coast within the south
Location Map
Greatest 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 supplied a beautiful restaurant and nice snorkelling.
Exploring the plush jungles on foot with a neighborhood 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 identify.

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 in case you can. They accommodate the second-largest coral reef within the japanese a part of the Pacific.

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

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

Location: west, close to the border of Costa Rica
Location Map
Greatest 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 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

Positioned 40 km north of Panama Metropolis, the Soberania Nationwide Park boasts in depth swaths of tropical forest. It is likely one of the greatest birdwatching spots on the planet, inhabited by a few 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 counsel heading for his or her commentary deck to see uncommon birds of their pure setting! 

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

Location: heart of the nation
Location Map
Greatest 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 unbelievable chook’s eye view above the cover.
Mountaineering the scenic Plantation Highway path which was dwelling 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 among 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. The town’s japanese outskirts merge with the Jaramillo Mountains. Boquete begins an enchanting seven-hour journey to the Baru volcano, the nation’s highest summit.

At its high, you’ll 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 may discover the jungles teeming with unique birds, together with Quetzal, the sacred Indian chook with vibrant plumage and an extended tail. Whereas mountain climbing within the jungles, you may take a look at waterfalls and a mountain canyon with a pure water pool.

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

My private highlights…

Attempting out the enjoyable zipline, which neglected the forest.
Happening the hanging bridges tour, the bridge right here is Central America’s second longest and highest.
Happening an attention-grabbing jungle tour and seeing unbelievable 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 recognized for mighty waves as much as 10 meters excessive.

The ebb and movement fluctuate inside 8 meters, thus creating stable tides. The seashores are smeared with black volcanic sand and supply a shocking view of the solar setting behind the horizon. You would possibly need to discover different bay seashores simply exterior 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 unbelievable crusing expertise or a visit on the excessive seas.

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

My highlights…

Watching the surfers journey the waves at La Punta Seashore.
Watching the solar go down at La Coquita dwelling to spectacular black sand shadows at evening.
Kayaking over to the white sand seashore on Isla Catalina and mountain 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 pressured the locals to construct a system of defensive constructions on the close by Island of El Morro.

They’d 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 at the present time. 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
Greatest time to go to: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

Strolling by way 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 called 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 may see a panoramic shoreline sundown, therefore its identify. 

If you go to Sundown Coast, I counsel 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 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 unbelievable; I used to be fortunate sufficient to identify a scarlet macaw! 

Location: south
Location Map
Greatest 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 buying and canyon views whereas leaping within the close by waters.

The bus to get there may be low cost and solely prices $1.50 per particular person per journey. A mini grocery store greets you when the bus drops you off so you may decide up any snacks or seashore provides you want. 

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

I’d counsel 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
Greatest 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 way 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 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 a complete 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
Greatest time to go to: December to April (the dry season)

My private highlights…

Hiring a paddleboard which was a enjoyable solution to discover the coast!
Exploring the petite metropolis’s fishing village and surrounding areas by bike.
Attempting kite browsing! The ocean situations listed below are excellent for all talents.

16. Isla Perro

This paradise-like Island is a part of the San Blas Islands however I feel it 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. 

Probably 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 do not need the water journey to finish, lease one of many 30 campsites accessible. Then, the following day, you may discover extra of the territory. 

Location: San Blas, east of the nation
Location Map
Greatest 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 pictures of the dreamy palm bushes and beautiful clear water for my Instagram.
Attempting volleyball on their courtroom (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 plenty of seashores in its neighborhood.

The principle 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 dwelling right here, lots 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 through the migration seasons.

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

Location: south-eastern tip of the Azuero Peninsula
Location Map
Greatest 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 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 absorb the solar. The seashores have every little thing 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 perfect backdrop for diving, snorkeling, and browsing. If you wish to study extra concerning the traditions and customs of Panama, you should definitely 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 appeal in case you have spare hours.

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

My highlights…

Sipping on a handcrafted signature cocktail at The OC Bar & Lounge which supplied 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 Canal

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

Greater than 12,000 ocean-bound vessels go by way 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.

In my view, one of the best 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
Greatest time to go to: all 12 months spherical

My private highlights…

Exploring the Miraflores Customer Middle, a four-story interactive museum and studying concerning the canal’s historical past.
Seeing the canal locks working on the viewing platforms on the Miraflores Customer Middle – it was superb to have a extremely close-up view of ships being raised and lowered over 85 toes! 

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