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.
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| Photo by Luis Quintero from Pexels |
The 4 Most Visited Attractions In Panama [Travel Guide]
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!
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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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Panama looks looks like a really interesting place to visit. Great that is open again for travellers.
Oh, WOW! This is interesting. I have never been to Panama City but I'd love to visit it and learn more about it. I'll add it to my bucket list. I can't wait to travel more.
I've always wanted to visit Panama. There's so much color, history, and life there. It's always fascinated me.
I would love to visit Panama and the Panama Canal someday. My parents did a cruise there and loved it!
your article reminds me of Prison Break series hehe.
Panama stands out among the world's expat destinations because it offers solid infrastructure and First World amenities. It is indeed an incredible place to visit.
The Panama Canal is always the first thing that comes to my mind when it comes to Panama but it seems like this place have many other equally wonderful destinations to offer. It is also nice to know that they are now open for international travelers who wish to witness the beauty of this place amidst the pandemic. Thank you for sharing
Panama is such a gorgeous place. I really love the vibrancy of the area and the people.
Awesome places to visit. Now it's opening, it will be fun going to all of these places. Tank you for sharing!
Fransic - https://www.querianson.com
Great photos! I haven't been in Panama, let alone South America. I hope I can visit it soon. Maybe after the pandemic?
Panama is this beautiful? I've always heard about it in the movies but never imagined places like the Panama Canal are this good-looking! Thanks for sharing about them.
I know someone who talks about Panama so much. She is from there and she just loves it.
Honestly I have never, BEFORE, considered Panama a top destination to visit, but you post has definitely changed my opinion :)
We have been visiting Mexico a lot, but have been considering places like Panama. It definitely has a lot to see and plenty of things to offer.