Traveling to Panama can be a wonderful experience, especially if you are prepared. To make sure your trip to Panama is as safe and enjoyable as possible, here are some tips to keep in mind.
First, make sure to bring a good map, preferably one that is written in both Spanish and English. This will help you navigate the country and will come in handy if you need to ask for directions.
Second, be sure to bring enough money for your trip. Panama is a cash-based society, so you will need to have enough cash on hand to pay for any expenses.
Third, be sure to dress appropriately. Although Panama is a tropical country, it’s best to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
Fourth, learn some basic Spanish phrases before you go. This will help you communicate with locals and get around more easily.
Fifth, be aware of the local laws and customs. Many of the laws in Panama are different than those in other countries, so make sure to read up on them before you go.
Finally, make sure to pack a first-aid kit. This will be especially important if you plan to do a lot of hiking or exploring in remote areas.
Now that you’re prepared for your trip, here are some of the top sites and monuments to visit in Panama:
- Panama Canal- This man-made canal joins the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean and is one of the most popular attractions in Panama. (https://www.panamacanal.com/)
- Casco Antiguo- This historic district of Panama City is home to many of the country’s most iconic landmarks, including the Church of San José. (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/casco-antiguo)
- Coiba National Park- This national park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and is also a popular spot for diving and snorkeling. (https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1043/)
- Bocas del Toro- This archipelago off the coast of Panama is a popular destination for beach-goers and scuba divers. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/bocas-del-toro-archipelago/)
- San Blas Islands- These islands are home to the Kuna people, and are a popular spot for sailing and fishing. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/san-blas-islands/)
- Panama Viejo- This is the oldest European settlement in the Americas, and is home to a number of archaeological sites. (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/panama/panama-city/attractions/panama-viejo/a/poi-sig/1450497/362024)
- Panama Canal Railway- This historic railway runs from Panama City to Colón and is a great way to explore the country. (https://www.panama-guide.com/panama-canal-railway.htm)
- Isla Taboga- This small island off the coast of Panama is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/isla-taboga/)
- The Chagres National Park- This is a popular spot for bird-watchers and is home to a variety of wildlife. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/chagres-national-park/)
- Barú Volcano- This active volcano is one of the most popular attractions in Panama. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/baru-volcano/)
- Emberá Village- This is a traditional indigenous village in the Darien region, and is a great way to learn about the culture of the Emberá people. (https://www.tripsavvy.com/embera-indigenous-village-in-panama-1539704)
- Isla Contadora- This island off the coast of Panama is home to a number of beaches, as well as a number of resorts. (https://www.panama-guide.com/isla-contadora.htm)
- The Biodiversity Museum- This museum in Panama City is a great way to learn about the country’s natural history. (https://www.panamatourism.com/attractions/biodiversity-museum/)
- Cerro Ancón- This hill in Panama City overlooks the city and is a popular spot for hiking and bird-watching. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/cerro-ancon/)
- Isla Iguana- This small island off the coast of Panama is a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming. (https://www.panama-guide.com/isla-iguana.htm)
- Almirante- This is a town in Bocas del Toro, and is home to some of the best surfing in the region. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/almirante-town/)
- The Metropolitan Natural Park- This park in Panama City is home to a variety of wildlife, as well as a number of hiking trails. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/metropolitan-natural-park/)
- Santa Catalina- This is a small fishing village in the Veraguas region, and is a popular spot for surfing. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/santa-catalina/)
- La Amistad International Park- This park is shared by both Panama and Costa Rica, and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. (https://www.panamatourism.com/attractions/la-amistad-international-park/)
- El Valle de Antón- This is a popular mountain town in the Coclé province, and is a great spot for hiking and exploring. (https://www.visitpanama.com/en/destinations/el-valle-de-anton/)
With these tips in mind and the list of sites to visit, you’ll be sure to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Panama. Bon voyage!