Travel: Panama - Best places to visit & other details

 

Panama is a beautiful country in Central America  with a diverse range of attractions and places to visit. Here are some of the best places to explore in Panama:

Panama offers a wide range of attractions and places to visit. Here are some of the best places to explore in Panama in more detail:

1. **Panama City:** The capital is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and historic attractions. Be sure to visit:

   - **Casco Viejo:** The historic Old Town of Panama City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful buildings, churches, and lively squares.

   - **Panama Canal:** Witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where you can watch ships pass through the canal.

   - **Biomuseo:** Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this museum showcases Panama's extraordinary biodiversity and the formation of the isthmus.

2. **San Blas Islands:** Located off the Caribbean coast, the San Blas Islands are a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. They are also home to the indigenous Guna Yala people. Enjoy beachcombing, snorkeling, and experiencing Guna culture.

3. **Bocas del Toro:** This Caribbean archipelago is known for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty. Explore its vibrant main town, Bocas del Toro, and visit various islands and beaches for snorkeling, diving, and water sports.

4. **Boquete:** Nestled in the highlands of Chiriquí Province, Boquete offers cool mountain air, lush coffee plantations, and an array of outdoor activities. Hike the Baru Volcano, explore cloud forests, and taste some of Panama's best coffee.

5. **El Valle de Anton:** A picturesque town situated within the crater of an extinct volcano. Enjoy hiking, visit the El Nispero Zoo and Botanical Garden, and browse the vibrant Sunday market for local crafts and produce.

6. **Pearl Islands:** Accessible by a short flight from Panama City, these islands offer pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and excellent snorkeling, making them perfect for a tropical getaway.

7. **Santa Catalina:** A renowned surfing destination on the Pacific coast, Santa Catalina also provides access to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diving, marine life, and untouched landscapes.

8. **Gamboa Rainforest:** Immerse yourself in Panama's lush rainforests. Take a boat tour on the Panama Canal, go bird watching, and explore the wildlife in Soberania National Park.

9. **Portobelo:** This historic town on the Caribbean coast features well-preserved forts, ruins, and churches, offering a glimpse into Panama's colonial past and its role in the Spanish treasure route.

10. **Darien National Park:** For the adventurous traveler, this remote and biodiverse park near the Colombian border offers challenging treks and a chance to experience pristine rainforests.

11. **Emberá Indigenous Village:** Visit one of the Emberá villages along the Chagres River to experience Panama's indigenous culture, traditional dances, and crafts.

Panama's diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique geographic location make it a captivating destination with something for every type of traveler, from nature enthusiasts to history buffs and beach lovers.

Best seasons 

Panama's climate is tropical and generally warm year-round. However, there are distinct seasons that can affect the best times to visit. Here are the seasons and the best times to experience Panama:

1. **Dry Season (Summer):** The dry season typically runs from mid-December to mid-April. This is considered the best time to visit Panama, as you'll encounter minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for beach activities, hiking, and exploring.

2. **Green Season (Rainy Season):** The rainy season extends from mid-April to mid-December. While it can be wet, Panama's rainforests are at their lushest during this time, making it a great period for nature lovers and birdwatching. Just be prepared for occasional heavy rains and high humidity.

3. **Shoulder Seasons:** The transition months of November and early December and late April to May can be good times to visit. You may enjoy a mix of good weather and fewer crowds.

Cuisines 

As for cuisine, Panama offers a variety of delicious dishes influenced by its multicultural heritage. Here are some must-try Panamanian foods:

1. **Sancocho:** A hearty chicken soup with vegetables and herbs, often served at social gatherings.

2. **Ceviche:** Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and various spices.

3. **Arroz con Guandú:** A rice dish cooked with pigeon peas, often served as a side dish.

4. **Tamales:** These are usually made with corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, and seasonings, wrapped in banana leaves.

5. **Ropa Vieja:** Shredded beef stewed with tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions, often served with rice and beans.

6. **Patacones:** Fried green plantains, similar to tostones in other Latin American countries, often served as a side dish or snack.

7. **Hojaldras:** A type of fried bread, similar to doughnuts, often served for breakfast with cheese or jam.

8. **Seafood:** Panama offers a wide range of fresh seafood, including corvina (sea bass), camarones al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and lobster.

9. **Fresh Fruit:** Panama is known for its tropical fruits like guava, papaya, pineapple, and mango. Try these fruits in their natural form or as part of fruit salads and smoothies.

10. **Empanadas:** Fried or baked pastries filled with a variety of ingredients, such as ground beef, cheese, or seafood.

Exploring local markets and trying street food is a great way to immerse yourself in Panama's culinary culture. Don't forget to pair your meal with a refreshing local beer or a cocktail like a Ron Ponche or a Chichita Panama, made with local sugarcane liquor.

Airlines 

Panama is served by several airlines, including both international and domestic carriers. Here are some of the major airlines that operate in and out of Panama:

1. **Copa Airlines:** Panama's national carrier, Copa Airlines, is headquartered in Panama City. It offers a wide range of international and domestic flights, with Tocumen International Airport in Panama City as its main hub. Copa Airlines provides connections to various destinations in the Americas.

2. **Air Panama:** Air Panama is the largest domestic airline in Panama, offering flights to various destinations within the country. They also operate regional flights to neighboring countries.

3. **United Airlines:** United Airlines offers flights to Panama from various U.S. cities, including Houston and Newark. United operates daily flights to Tocumen International Airport in Panama City.

4. **American Airlines:** American Airlines provides flights from Miami and Dallas/Fort Worth to Panama City. It's one of the major carriers connecting the United States and Panama.

5. **Delta Air Lines:** Delta offers flights between Panama City and its hub in Atlanta, providing another option for travelers flying to and from the United States.

6. **Avianca:** Avianca, a Colombian airline, connects Panama City with various international destinations in the Americas. It's one of the major carriers in the region.

7. **JetBlue Airways:** JetBlue operates flights between Panama City and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It's known for its affordable fares and comfortable amenities.

8. **Spirit Airlines:** Spirit Airlines offers low-cost flights from Fort Lauderdale to Panama City, providing budget-friendly options for travelers.

9. **Iberia:** The Spanish airline Iberia connects Panama City with Madrid, Spain, and offers access to the European market.

10. **Copa Airlines Colombia:** A subsidiary of Copa Airlines, this airline operates regional flights within Colombia and connects to Panama for international travel.

These are some of the primary airlines serving Panama. Depending on your departure location and travel plans, you may have other options and regional carriers available. It's advisable to check flight availability and schedules with these airlines when planning your trip to Panama.