Experiences in Panama
POPULAR ATTRACTIONS
ISLA MAMEY – Isla Mamey is part of the Portobelo district, which is a historic port in the province of Colón and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you visit the pristine Caribbean island of Isla Mamey, you’ll find palm-lined beaches and warm turquoise water. Make time to visit the other areas of Portobelo, as well, for a glimpse at the area’s rich history and cultural traditions, such as the Festival of the Black Christ.
Take in the natural splendor of the island with a snorkeling or diving excursion, or head to western side of the island for great surfing. You can also make a night of it by camping on the island.
SAN BLAS – Guna Yala is an indigenous territory governed by the Guna indigenous group. The territory consists of a narrow strip of land on the Caribbean side of the country, as well as an archipelago of 365 islands, of which only 50 are inhabited by Guna people. The islands in Guna Yala are also known as the San Blas Islands, which are considered a top destination in Panama due to their well-protected natural beauty, as stewarded by the native Guna people.
The Gunas are known for crafting the famous Molas, a traditional textile made from layers of colored fabric crafted to form patterns and pictures inspired by their cosmogenic beliefs. The molas, which recreate the Guna vision of a colorful and mythological world, make incredible, one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
A trip to Guna Yala won’t look like any commercial vacation you’ve experienced in the past. Instead, you’ll get to embrace the local customs and cuisine. Keep in mind, there’s no internet access, or credit card payments, and US dollars are the only acceptable form of payment. Expect to lodge in thatched huts without heated water, or go the camping route, by renting tents or hammocks. One of the most popular places to stay, however, is aboard a sailboat. This option will allow you to sail from island to island, rather than just choosing one.
While you’re there, you’ll get to swim in the beautiful crystal clear, turquoise water and learn about Guna culture and traditions. Plan to island hop while in San Blas, and consider stopping at El Porvenir, the capital of GunaYala, Isla Perro, for amazing snorkeling, Playa Chichimei, which is popular amongst backpackers, or take a day trip to other stunning islands like Banedub Island or Robeson Island. When you’re ready for a meal, enjoy the local gastronomy, which includes freshly caught seafood prepared with local spices and ingredients.
ISLA CARENERO – Take a day-trip to Isla Carenero, a small, forested island just 2 minutes by boat from Bocas Town. You can hike the entirety of the island in about an hour, and then hit the beach for beginner-friendly surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or some of the best seafood restaurants in Bocas Del Toro.
GASTRONOMY & RESTAURANTS – Panama City has been a UNESCO Creative City in Gastronomy since 2017, and for good reason. Foodie or not, you’ll want to experience the uniquely Panamanian cuisine, comprising flavors, dishes and ingredients from Panama’s African, Spanish and Native influences. For some of the best restaurants in the city, head to UNESCO World Heritage site, Casco Antiguo. This is where the country’s traditions collide to give you the best of Panamanian cuisine made by world-class chefs.
While you’re in town, make sure to try the Ceviche. This classic seafood dish is made of raw fish cured in citrus juices and spiced with chili peppers. For something hardier, ask for the Ropa Vieja—a spiced beef dish, or the traditional Panamanian soup known as Sancocho. Breakfast in Panama usually means eggs, meat, tortilla, fruit and coffee, but if you want something sweeter, get some Hojaldras—a kind of fried bread sprinkled with powdered sugar. For snacks and side dishes you can’t go wrong with Yuca Frita (yuca fries,) or the delicious twice-fried plantains, known as Tostones. And of course, plan to enjoy plenty of delicious seafood and tropical fruit while visiting Panama.
CINTA COSTERA – La Cinta Costera, or Coastal Beltway, is a massive public space comprising 64 acres of ocean front land, and offering incredible views of both the city and bay. The land reclamation project provides a gathering point for locals and tourists alike, with plenty of space for exploring, eating and lounging.
If you’re looking for a place to work out, this is the spot. With ample bike lanes, running trails and green space, La Cinta Costera is the ideal place for outdoor exercise. Plus, the beltway is partially closed to cars on Sundays, providing real estate for biking. Depending on the time of year, you may encounter a party such as Carnival or the Pride Parade, which happen at the Beltway. For family-friendly activities, consider renting bikes, or exploring the Seafood Market where you can get some of the best, freshest seafood in the city. (We recommend the ceviche!)
BARRO COLORADO ISLAND – Barro Colorado Island is famous for being the most intensely studied tropical forest in the world. It is an artificial island of 1,560 hectares that was created during the construction of the Panama Canal. When the Chagres River was dammed to form Gatún Lake, a vast valley was flooded and one of its hills was cut off by water and became Barro Colorado Island. In 1923, at the request of a group of scientists, this island was declared a Biological Reserve, the first Tropical Rainforest Reserve in America, and a research laboratory was installed. In 1946, Barro Colorado was turned over to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, and in 1979, five peninsulas were added on the mainland to declare it a Natural Monument. For more than 100 years, thousands of scientific studies have been carried out in Barro Colorado that have helped us better understand the functioning of the world’s tropical ecosystems and the importance of their inhabitants.
CASCO ANTIGUO – Experience the historical, charming and vibrant neighborhood of Casco Antiguo. Casco Antiguo, also known as Casco Viejo, or the ‘old quarter,” is Panama City’s historic district. Considered a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site, the district dates back to 1673, and features vibrant plazas and picturesque brick-paved streets surrounded by colorful buildings. The area is ideal for walking, discovering history and enjoying a variety of fine cuisine. Come for some of the city’s best gastronomy, culture and photo opps, and stay to mingle with the locals in the heart of the nightlife scene.
Start your visit with a lively walk through the neighborhood. You’ll encounter some religious history at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Panama City located in the main square, Plaza Mayor, as well as the Church of San Jose, famous for its amazing golden altar. As you walk, make sure to stop at Plaza de Francia, a beautiful plaza that pays homage to the French role in the construction of the Panama Canal. The plaza is also home to Las Bóvedas, a monument that was once used as a defense against pirate attacks. Next, visit Paseo Esteban Huertas, where you’ll get pristine views of the city skyline and bay.
Casco Antiguo is also home to several of the city’s top museums, including the Museo del Canal (The Canal Museum), and the Museo de la Mola, featuring the traditional textile art made by the Guna indigenous group. You’ll also find the iconic stone archway at Arco Chato, which is the remains of a church built by Dominican friars, and a beautiful photo opportunity. Next, be sure to visit the Panama National Theater to see the stunning ceiling frescoes painted by Robert Lewis. On your walk, you’ll also get the chance to do some shopping, with opportunities to buy local crafts and visit high-end boutiques.
When you get hungry, you’re in luck. Casco Viejo is home to the heart of the gastronomy scene in Panama City. You’ll be met with the smells of grilled seafood wafting through its historic streets, and you’ll get to try some of Panama’s best dishes, as well as cuisine from all over the world made by premiere chefs. After dinner, check out the nightlife scene, or take in the sunset with views of the capital from one of the amazing rooftop bars overlooking the city.
