Last updated: 1:25 PM ET, Wed March 8, 2023
Panama is a country of unmatched biodiversity. Cloud forests, nature reserves, white beaches, and azure waters make it a nature lovers' paradise and bliss for seekers of serenity.
But it also offers the adventure seeker many exhilarating activities: hiking, zip lines, and white water rafting - all in pristine jungles, rivers, and oceans.
Add Panama's mosaic of cultural diversity, colonial relics, and unique Panamanian cuisine, and you have an unmissable destination.
Colonial Heritage Walking Tour In Panama
Panama City has a fascinating history, magnificent cathedrals, and awe-inspiring parks and squares. If culture is your interest, then a guided walk around some areas of historical importance will delight you.
This tour is not just about tourist attractions; it’s about showing you the day-to-day life of the locals and the true colors of Panama.
Panama Canal Partial Tour
Board your vessel in Gamboa, home of the Panama Canal Dredging Division, and head through the Culebra cut. This portion of the canal cuts through the continental divide and is full of history and geological value. Here you can experience some fantastic scenic views of the Centennial Bridge.
Disembark at the beautiful Flamenco Marina in Panama City. The marina is a popular spot for boaters, tourists, and locals alike. It features a shopping center, restaurants, and a beach.
Indigenous Guna Village In San Blas Islands
We recommend a trip to the San Blas Islands if you are keen to discover how one indigenous tribe lives their daily life.
The Guna people maintain many traditional practices and beliefs - their intricately handwoven mola textiles are extraordinary. We could not resist buying some of the beautiful panels to take home with us.
The indigenous Guna people inhabit 49 of the 300 islands of the idyllic San Blas archipelago. The Gunas still live as their ancestors did in small wooden shacks and hammocks for furniture.
Not only will you enjoy learning about the Guna tribe but you can spend some time soaking up the sun on the glistening white island beach or swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise blue waters.
Gatun Lake
What would a visit to Panama be without a zip line adventure over water or kayaking across a lake?
Speeding across the five canopy lines that cross the lake is sure to get your adrenaline going. If adrenaline is not for you, take in the beautiful natural surroundings by paddling a kayak through the lake.
We were pleased to find a variety of activities on our visit to Gatun Lake, including boat tours, fishing, bird watching, and exploring the lush tropical rainforest that surrounds the lake.
Additionally, the lake is surrounded by several historic sites, including the Gatun Locks, which are part of the Panama Canal.
Cloud Forest Wildlife Hike
The Pipeline hiking trail in the Volcán Barú National Park is a must to explore. The trail is a 2.8-mile round trip that follows an old pipeline through the jungle. The trail features old-growth trees, bridges over a creek, and rare animal species, such as the quetzal.
The Pipeline trail is recommended for most levels of fitness as an easy-to-moderate hike. The trail winds through the cloud forest, passing through two micro-climates. It offers breathtaking views of the Panamanian jungle and an opportunity to see abundant wildlife and indigenous plants.
Short sections of the trail are steep uphill climbs, which we did find a little tough going, but the experience was well worth it!
Coffee Tour
Geisha beans, grown in Panama, are one of the most popular coffee beans in the world. Boquete, Cerro Punta, and Volcan in the Chiriqui highlands produce this much sought-after bean.
Many growers in these areas offer tours around their plantations. You can learn and experience how to grow, harvest, process, and roast coffee.
So, if you are a coffee aficionado, we highly recommend including a coffee-tasting tour in your itinerary.
Fort San-Lorenzo Historical Train Journey
One of our favorite experiences in Panama was taking a train along the famous Panama Canal. In San-Lorenzo you can take a train over the 80 km stretch separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Pacific Ocean. The views and scenery are unforgettable.
The trip includes exploring San-Lorenzo and Portobelo's old colonial military fort and magnificent examples of 17th and 18th-century military architecture.
Discover Panama
From the architectural marvel of the Panama Canal to old picturesque towns and indigenous villages, Panama is full of culture and history. If you’re after an outdoor adventure, there are plenty of hiking spots and crystal-clear waters to explore.
Panama will live up to your expectations no matter where your interests lie.
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