Discover Panama: 8 Incredible Places Beyond the Canal
Panama offers far more than just its famous canal. While the Panama Canal is a must-see, this Central American nation boasts a wealth of natural beauty and cultural experiences. From its numerous islands and wildlife-rich rainforests to miles of untouched coastline on two oceans, Panama promises an unforgettable trip. Nestled between Costa Rica and Colombia, this narrow isthmus is a vibrant biological corridor. Despite its compact size, Panama packs a punch. You might find yourself extending your trip once you hear about the adrenaline-pumping adventures in the Boquete highlands and the island-hopping possibilities in Bocas del Toro, not to mention its cosmopolitan capital. Here are some of the best places to explore in Panama. Top Destinations in Panama
1. Panama City
Panama City, Central America's most stylish capital, presents itself as a city of three distinct characters. The downtown area pulses with modern skyscrapers, international finance, upscale restaurants, and gleaming shopping malls. Across the bay lie the poignant ruins of Panamá Viejo, the original city sacked by pirates in 1671. And then there's Casco Viejo, a hip neighborhood reborn through ambitious restoration. Boutique hotels such as the American Trade Hotel and chic rooftop venues like Casa Casco now occupy the pastel-colored colonial mansions lining its cobblestone streets. To escape the urban environment, take a hike through Parque Natural Metropolitano, or bike along the picturesque Amador Causeway, where the Frank Gehry-designed BioMuseo celebrates the natural and cultural history of the isthmus.
2. Panama Canal The world-renowned Panama Canal, also known as "the big ditch," has been a crucial trade route connecting the Pacific and Atlantic oceans since its opening in 1914. This engineering marvel, operating 24/7, facilitates the movement of over half a billion tons of goods annually.
The Miraflores Visitor Center, with its four-story viewing platforms, offers the easiest way to witness the canal's mechanics in action. Try to schedule your visit to coincide with the arrival of a mega-ship, and don’t miss the 3D movie. For a closer look, consider a partial (six to seven hours) or full (10 to 12 hours) canal transit with Ancon Expeditions.
3. Boquete Adrenaline seekers should make their way to Boquete, a highland town where adventure awaits at every turn. From the foothills of Volcán Barú, you can hike to the summit for an unforgettable sunrise, or soar above the slopes on a zip line. Hiking along misty cloud forest trails in search of hidden waterfalls and elusive quetzals is a must. The scenery is enveloped in greenery and serenaded by birdsong. After the heat of Panama City, Boquete provides a welcome breath of fresh air, where shade-grown coffee plantations stretch out across the undulating landscape. Sample Panama Geisha, one of the world’s most prized coffees, and indulge in farm-to-table fusion cuisine at Retrogusto, an Italian-run restaurant.
4. Bocas del Toro The islands of Bocas del Toro cater to every taste. These islands seamlessly blend a backpacker party atmosphere, a laid-back Caribbean paradise for couples, and an expat community. The three main islands, along with numerous uninhabited islets, are also home to some of Panama’s most stunning beaches.
Bocas Town on Isla Colón is the heart of the party scene. Hostels and handicraft shops reside in brightly painted, charming clapboard buildings. Discover starfish at Playa Estrella, where the calm waters are perfect for snorkeling. Finally, unwind with delicious cocktails and freshly caught fish at El Último Refugio, an over-the-water restaurant. For jungle-backed beaches, coral-fringed cays, and surfing at Wizard Beach, hop over to Isla Bastimentos. This island features a namesake marine park and an important conservation area with mangroves, monkeys, crocodiles, and superb snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities.
5. Comarca de Guna Yala (San Blas Islands) Embrace your inner Robinson Crusoe on this string of tropical islands off Panama’s Caribbean coast. Picture swaying palms, white-sand beaches, and azure waters. The San Blas archipelago includes nearly 400 islands. This semi-autonomous region is home to the Indigenous Guna people, who fiercely protect their culture and customs. This protection includes "molas," the hand-embroidered textiles crafted by Guna women. The island lodges are owned and operated by families from the more densely populated village-islands, such as Playón Chico, and feature rustic cane-and-palm-thatch cabañas. The San Blas Islands offer the chance to disconnect from the world—think no internet, no TVs, and no telephones. Spend your time sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and stargazing.
6. Santa Catalina Once a small fishing village, Santa Catalina in the Gulf of Chiriquí has become a surfer's haven, boasting some of the best year-round breaks in Central America, wetsuit not required. Local fishermen sell the day's catch in the shade of mango trees, and you can find sushi with a tropical twist. If surfing isn't your thing, Santa Catalina serves as the gateway to Parque Nacional Coiba. Visit this former penal colony, often referred to as “Panama’s Galápagos,” at the right time of year to swim alongside whale sharks (December to April) and humpback whales (August to November). You might also spot whitetip reef sharks, rays, hawksbill turtles, and schools of colorful fish. Book a tour in town to access the park.
7. Portobelo Walking through the relaxed streets of Portobelo, it’s hard to believe that this town was once a vital port in the Caribbean, where treasure plundered from the Incas was shipped back to Spain. The ruins of frequently sacked fortresses remain, with Fuerte San Jerónimo being the most popular. The stone Customs House, once filled with Peruvian gold, stands out among the clapboard houses. Portobelo’s African roots trace back to the Congo, and cultural spaces like Casa de la Cultura Congo help preserve traditional art and music. During the colorful biannual Festival de Diablos y Congos, and October’s Festival del Cristo Negro, the vibrant local culture is alive.
8. Península de Azuero Farming, folklore, and festivals are integral to the Azuero Peninsula, the cultural heartland of Panama. The peninsula is bordered by the Gulf of Chiriquí to the west and the Gulf of Panamá to the east. Las Tablas hosts the country’s largest Carnaval celebration, featuring flamboyant costumes, energetic music, and lively dancing. Farther south, the streets of Pedasí are lined with well-preserved colonial buildings. Playa Venao, a golden stretch of sand with world-class surf, lies just 34km (21 miles) south. For wildlife enthusiasts, the reserves of Isla Iguana and Isla Cañas are just a short boat trip away. Isla Cañas is one of the few places on the planet where olive ridley sea turtles nest in large numbers.