The 4 Most Visited Attractions In Panama [Travel Guide]
Described by many as ‘The Bridge of the Americas’, Panama remains one of the hidden gems of Central America. Despite being off the main tourist trail, it is bursting with history, culture, and natural beauty, and boasts a variety of exciting and fascinating attractions.
Photo by Luis Quintero from Pexels
The 4 Most Visited Attractions In Panama [Travel Guide]
Table of Contents
Quick information about Panama
Panama is an unforgettable country with many things to offer to its visitors. But before we proceed, here are some fast facts about Panama:
Capital: Panama City
Language: Spanish but English is also widely spoken
Currency: US Dollar and Balboa
Weather: Tropical
What to wear: Cool and light clothing
What to expect in Panama
From the famous Canal and Panama City itself to gorgeous beaches, paradise islands, and incredible scenery, there’s a lot to unpack and discover on a vacation to Panama. A few of the best short cruises visit this delightful nation, so if your next vacation itinerary includes a stop in Panama, here are some of its most popular attractions to get you started!
Places mapped by Wanderlog, an itinerary planner
You are guaranteed to be captivated by this wonderful country, but remember, if you want to stay longer you may need a residency visa!
1. The Panama Canal
Probably Panama’s most famous and popular attraction, the Panama Canal was the first manmade waterway to link the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans. Constructed in 1914, it is 48 miles long and was one of the most complex and arduous engineering projects ever!
Photo by Michael D. Camphin from Pexels
Over 14,000 ships use the canal every year, making the 8-hour journey instead of weeks of travel around the southern tip of South America. Tourist trips can be made along the canal, as well as visits to various sights along its length, including Gatun Lake, Barro Colorado Island, and Soberania National Park.
2. Panama City
Panama’s capital is bizarrely underrated but should be on every traveler’s itinerary. It boasts a beautiful old Spanish colonial center, glorious beaches right in the city, and great drinking and dining options.
Photo by Luis Quintero from Pexels
The most impressive starting point for visitors to the city is Casco Viejo, the old town. Stunning terracotta roofs and bell towers crowd together and create a wonderful historic atmosphere. Panama Viejo, the remains of the first colony, is also worth a look.
3. Bocas del Toro
This beautiful Caribbean archipelago is one of the shining jewels of Panama, a stretch of 300 tiny islands defined by pristine white-sand beaches and charming eco-lodges.
There isn’t much to do here beyond relax, swim, and drink in the stunning natural beauty, but that is absolutely perfect! Explore the islands by kayak or just lie back and soak up the sun in an untouched paradise location.
4. Boquete
Panama’s capital of coffee, Boquete is a delightful town nestled away in the Chiriqui Highlands near the Costa Rican border. Start your day with the freshest cup of coffee you will ever taste, bathe in the nearby hot springs, and explore the majestic Baru volcano. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic and mysterious Quetzal bird as well!
Panama’s COVID-19 restrictions
Panama is already open to international travelers. However, health and safety are still of utmost importance. Travelers who are able to show proof of complete vaccination may enter Panama.
Photo by Luis Quintero from Pexels
Non-vaccinated travelers may still enter the country provided they show a negative COVID-19 test. Furthermore, if an individual has traveled through a high-risk country in the last 15 days shall be required to quarantine for 72 hours in a hotel.
For the reference of travelers, here is the list of high-risk countries:
Until September 15:
The United Kingdom,
India,
South Africa,
Colombia,
Brazil,
Venezuela,
Argentina,
Paraguay,
Ecuador,
Guyana
Surinam
Starting September 16:
The United States
Cuba
Guatemala
Costa Rica
French Guyana
the United Kingdom
Greece
Georgia
Estonia
Serbia
Macedonia
Montenegro
Azerbaijan
Israel
Malaysia
Mongolia
South Africa
Guinea Bissau
Tunisia
Fiji
Epilogue
Panama may not be the first choice among many world travelers but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have anything to offer. In fact, Panama does hold so many beautiful destinations that will surely captivate the heart of travelers.
It offers beautiful natural sceneries, interesting culture, breathtaking beaches, delicious food, and magnificent architecture.
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