Panama
Panama's natural landscape makes it a prime destination for outdoor adventures, notably around the Canal's vast watershed.
Metropolitan Natural Park (Panama City) has easy to moderate trails with panoramic city and Canal views. Soberanía National Park (Gamboa area) offers extensive trails, including the famous "Pipeline Road" for birdwatching. El Valle de Antón, a mountain town, has various hiking trails to waterfalls and mountains.
Kayaking/Paddleboarding on Gatun Lake via tour operators in Gamboa. Gatun Lake is famous for excellent peacock bass fishing with guided tours available. A ferry to Taboga Island offers a popular day trip for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach.
Taking the Panama Canal Railway from Panama City to Colón (or vice-versa) is an unique experience. This historical train ride provides a scenic parallel perspective of the Canal's path through the rainforest.
Prioritize safety during outdoor activities. Use reputable tour operators and guides. Check weather conditions before heading out, especially for water sports or hiking. Carry enough water and wear appropriate gear for the activity.
Panama offers many ways to immerse yourself in its food culture and traditions.
Seek and support tours that directly benefit local communities. These initiatives often offer authentic experiences while tourism contributions directly support local cultures.
Spanish language schools are available in Panama City for immersive learning. Even a few days of classes can help with basic communication and enhance interactions with locals.
Carnival: Annually before Ash Wednesday (Feb/Mar), Panama's biggest party. Semana Santa (Holy Week): Religious processions. Independence Days (November): Patriotic celebrations.
Hands-on classes teach preparation of traditional Panamanian dishes like sancocho or ceviche. A way to learn about local ingredients and cooking methods.
Explore local crafts in Casco Viejo, like painting, jewelry making, or the intricate Guna textile art of mola. Connect with local artists.
Learn about their culture, crafts, music, and dance during an organized river journey.
After active days of exploration, Panama offers opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Casco Viejo has rooftop bars and jazz clubs, suitable for a sophisticated evening. Modern Districts like El Cangrejo and Bella Vista also host numerous bars and clubs with live music.
National Theatre (Teatro Nacional) in Casco Viejo hosts various cultural performances, including ballet, opera, classical concerts, and theatrical productions. Atlapa Convention Center is a larger venue for major concerts.
Panama City has a lively club scene, especially in El Cangrejo and the financial district. Clubs play a mix of Latin music and international hits. Casco Viejo is excellent for a pub crawl, with many unique bars.
Mercado de Artesanías de Balboa: Near Amador Causeway, specializes in local handicrafts, including molas, woven baskets, and tagua nut carvings. Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market): Mainly for fresh seafood, but also a cultural experience.
Casco Viejo has several shops specializing in high-quality Panamanian handicrafts. Souvenir Recommendations: Molas (Guna textile art), Tagua Nut Carvings (resembles ivory), Embera Baskets (woven), high-quality Panama Hats, Panamanian coffee, and Ron Abuelo (local rum).
Multiplaza Pacific Mall and SOHO Mall are upscale malls with international luxury brands. Albrook Mall is one of Latin America's largest, with a vast array of international and local brands, electronics, and food courts.
Panama offers various ways to immerse yourself in its food culture and local traditions.
Seek and support tours and activities that directly benefit local communities. These initiatives often offer authentic experiences while tourism contributions support local cultures.
Spanish language schools are available in Panama City for immersive learning. Even a few days of classes can help with basic communication and enhance interactions with locals.
Panama hosts various food festivals throughout the year. Carnival (Feb/Mar) is Panama's biggest party. Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Independence Days (November) also have significant celebrations.
Casco Viejo has rooftop bars and jazz clubs for a sophisticated evening. Modern districts like El Cangrejo and Bella Vista host numerous bars and clubs with live music, playing a mix of Latin and international hits.
Kayaking/paddleboarding on Gatun Lake via tour operators. Gatun Lake is famous for excellent peacock bass fishing. A ferry to Taboga Island offers a popular day trip for swimming and sunbathing.
Metropolitan Natural Park (Panama City) has easy to moderate trails. Soberanía National Park (Gamboa area) offers extensive trails. El Valle de Antón has various hiking trails to waterfalls and mountains.
When visiting an Embera village, consider purchasing their handicrafts directly from them. This supports their economy and preserves their traditional arts. Bargaining is generally acceptable for these items.
Panama City comes alive after dark, offering a diverse range of entertainment and nightlife options.
This beautifully restored historic theater in Casco Viejo hosts various cultural performances, including ballet, opera, classical concerts, and theatrical productions. Check local listings for events.
A larger venue that hosts major concerts, international shows, and large-scale events. Check their schedule for any planned performances during your visit.
Casinos are available in larger hotels throughout the city, offering gaming and additional entertainment options for those looking for late-night diversions.
When purchasing souvenirs, especially handicrafts, seek out and purchase items directly from local artisans or community-based initiatives. This directly supports the local economy and helps preserve traditional arts.
