Panama

Panama is a country that defies categorization. It is the narrow link between two continents and two oceans, a place where a sparkling, skyscraper-filled metropolis sits just minutes away from a dense, primary rainforest. Beyond its famous engineering marvels, Panama is a land of hidden islands, mist-shrouded highlands, and a coastline that remains one of the last true frontiers of the Caribbean.

Whether you are seeking the urban energy of “the Miami of the South” or the rhythmic pulse of an indigenous island community, Panama offers a sophisticated and diverse escape for the modern traveler.

Why we love Panama

We love Panama for its sheer variety. It is one of the few places on earth where you can watch the sun rise over the Atlantic and set over the Pacific from the same mountain ridge. It is a country of deep connections—to history, to nature, and to global trade—yet it remains beautifully unpolished. It offers luxury and adventure in equal measure, all connected by a spirit of innovation and warmth.

The Most Beautiful Places in Panama

From the shimmering Caribbean to the cool mountain air, these are our essential destinations:

1. Panama City & Casco Viejo

Panama City is a fascinating study in contrasts. While the downtown area is a glitzy hub of finance and fashion, the historic district—Casco Viejo—is a UNESCO-listed gem of colonial ruins, boutique hotels, and rooftop bars. It is the soul of the city, where the history of the Spanish Empire meets the cutting edge of Panamanian gastronomy.

2. Bocas del Toro

This Caribbean archipelago is the definition of “island time.” Bocas offers a vibrant blend of Afro-Caribbean culture and tropical luxury. Stay in an overwater bungalow, explore the crystal-clear waters of Starfish Beach, or take a boat through the mangroves to spot sloths and dolphins. It is a place where life moves at the speed of a paddle.

3. The San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)

For the ultimate “off-the-grid” experience, look no further than San Blas. This archipelago of 365 islands is autonomously governed by the Guna people. There are no luxury resorts here—instead, you’ll find white-sand islets with a single palm tree, pristine coral reefs, and a way of life that hasn’t changed in centuries.

4. Boquete & The Chiriquí Highlands

Escape the coastal heat for the “Land of Eternal Rainbows.” Boquete is a mountain village nestled in the shadows of the Barú Volcano. Famous for producing “Geisha” coffee—the world’s most expensive variety—it is a sanctuary for hikers, birdwatchers seeking the Quetzal, and those looking for the serenity of a cloud forest.

5. The Panama Canal & Lake Gatun

No trip is complete without witnessing the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Watching a massive container ship traverse the Miraflores Locks is a humbling experience. For a closer look at the canal’s ecosystem, take a boat tour on Lake Gatun to see how nature has thrived alongside this incredible feat of engineering.

Highlights of a Tour Through Panama

  • The Panama Canal Railway: Travel from the Pacific to the Atlantic in just one hour on a historic train that winds through the jungle and alongside the canal.
  • Whale Watching in the Pearl Islands: Between July and October, the Pearl Islands become a nursery for humpback whales. Spend a day on a private catamaran witnessing these giants in their natural habitat.
  • Coffee Tastings: Visit a high-altitude estate in Boquete for a private cupping session to understand why Panamanian coffee is coveted by connoisseurs worldwide.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The dry season (mid-December to mid-April) is the most popular time to visit. However, the “Green Season” (May to November) offers lush scenery and is particularly good for surfing on the Pacific coast.
  • Getting around: Panama City has an excellent metro system and is very walkable in the historic center. For domestic travel, short flights to Bocas del Toro or private transfers to the highlands are the most convenient options.
  • Currency: Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) alongside the Panamanian Balboa (though only Balboa coins exist). It is a seamless experience for those carrying USD.
  • Connectivity: Panama is one of the most connected hubs in the world. Its “Tocumen International Airport” is the Hub of the Americas, making it incredibly easy to add a Panama stopover to any Latin American itinerary.