Panama

A land of impressive geographic and topographic diversity, Panama delivers a stunning breadth of experiences sure to dazzle the most weathered luxury adventurer. Discover the allure of some of the Americas’ most overlooked capitals, scout deserted island archipelagos, or soak in ethereal vistas from time-forgotten mountain villages. Panama is a land of dramatic contrasts, where intercontinental trade and soaring skyscrapers meet pristine tropical biomes and off-the-beaten path adventure. Here is a list of top areas to visit:

Panama City

Panama City is a dynamic metropolis located at the crossroads of the Americas. Apart from its modern skyscrapers and bustling financial district, the city is renowned for its historic district, Casco Viejo. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features 17th-century architecture, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. Visitors can also explore the Amador Causeway for stunning waterfront views and visit the Biomuseo to learn about Panama's biodiversity.

Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a testament to human ingenuity, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. To fully appreciate this engineering marvel, visitors can take a guided tour to see ships passing through the Miraflores Locks. The Panama Canal Museum offers an in-depth history of the canal's construction, while the Agua Clara Visitor Center provides a unique perspective of its expansion.

Boquete

Nestled in the Chiriquí Highlands, Boquete is known for its pleasant climate and lush landscapes. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking opportunities in Volcán Barú National Park, home to Panama's highest peak. Coffee aficionados can tour coffee plantations and taste some of the world's finest Arabica beans. Boquete also hosts the annual Flower and Coffee Festival, celebrating local culture.

Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is an archipelago comprising several islands and cays in the Caribbean Sea. Isla Colón, the main island, is known for its vibrant nightlife and pristine beaches like Starfish Beach. Visitors can explore the Bastimentos National Marine Park, home to coral reefs and diverse marine life. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the distinct Afro-Caribbean culture of the region.

San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands offer a unique cultural and natural experience. These 365 islands, controlled by the Kuna indigenous people, provide an opportunity to disconnect from the modern world. Traditional Kuna huts and a lack of electricity preserve their way of life. Snorkeling and swimming in the clear waters, as well as exploring tiny, uninhabited islands, are popular activities.

Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is a tranquil coastal village known for its world-class surfing conditions. It's an excellent destination for surfers of all levels, with breaks suitable for beginners and experts alike. Nearby Coiba National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering superb diving and snorkeling experiences. The village itself is laid-back, with seafood restaurants and beachfront accommodations.

Portobello

Portobello, on the Caribbean coast, is steeped in history. Its well-preserved forts, including the San Felipe Fortress, harken back to the days of Spanish galleons. Visitors can explore the colonial architecture and learn about the town's significance in maritime history. The Festival of the Black Christ in October is a cultural highlight, drawing thousands of pilgrims.

Azuero Peninsula

The Azuero Peninsula is a cultural heartland of Panama. Las Tablas and Chitré are famous for their Carnival and Semana Santa celebrations, which showcase vibrant parades, music, and traditional dances. The peninsula also offers beautiful beaches such as Playa Venao for surfers and Playa El Arenal for relaxation. Artisanal crafts and traditional festivals highlight the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Coiba National Park \

Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a pristine natural wonder. Its rainforests are home to diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys and crocodiles. The marine environment is equally impressive, with exceptional diving spots like the Hannibal Bank and Isla Granito de Oro. Experienced guides can lead you through this ecological paradise.

Padasi’s Natural Reserve (Reserva Ecologica Panamaes) \

Located in the Azuero Peninsula, Padasi’s Natural Reserve is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. The reserve boasts diverse ecosystems, including tropical forests and wetlands, making it a prime spot for bird watching and wildlife observation. Guided tours provide insights into Panama's natural history, and you can explore hiking trails, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Straddled between the turquoise Caribbean and the azure-hued Pacific, when curating your elite getaway, beaches should always be a primary consideration. Choose between 1,800 miles of coastline, from the majestic waves of the Pacific to the tepid calm of the north shore; each beach offers a unique gradient of sun-kissed bliss. Beyond the snake-shaped mainland lies a constellation of nearly two thousand remote tropical islands and archipelagos scattered across famously crystalline waters.

A paradisiacal oasis with beaches running the gamut from black to pearl-white sands, here are Panama's must-visit beaches:

Straddled between the turquoise Caribbean and the azure-hued Pacific, when curating your elite getaway, beaches should always be a primary consideration. Choose between 1,800 miles of coastline, from the majestic waves of the Pacific to the tepid calm of the north shore; each beach offers a unique gradient of sun-kissed bliss.

Beyond the snake-shaped mainland lies a constellation of nearly two thousand remote tropical islands and archipelagos scattered across famously crystalline waters. A paradisiacal oasis with beaches running the gamut from black to pearl-white sands, here are Panama's must-visit beaches:

Beaches of the San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are a paradisiacal archipelago off the Caribbean coast of Panama, known for their pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters. These islands, controlled by the Kuna indigenous people, offer an unspoiled tropical paradise. Each island seems like a postcard-worthy piece of heaven, with soft white sand and swaying palm trees. Snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. Visitors can immerse themselves in Kuna culture, with opportunities to stay in traditional thatched huts and learn about the customs and traditions of this unique indigenous group.

Red Frog Beach

Red Frog Beach is located on Isla Bastimentos in the Bocas del Toro archipelago. It's famous for its unique name and stunning natural beauty. The beach is known for its golden sand and the vibrant red poison dart frogs that inhabit the surrounding rainforest. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The nearby marine park provides opportunities for snorkeling and observing diverse marine life.

Starfish Beach

Located on Isla Colón in Bocas del Toro, Starfish Beach is a serene and picturesque destination. As the name suggests, it's known for the abundance of starfish that can be spotted in the shallow, crystal-clear waters. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect place for relaxation, and the calm bay is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Beachside bars and seafood shacks offer delicious local cuisine.

Isla Coiba in Coiba National Park

Isla Coiba, within the Coiba National Park, is a pristine island known for its secluded and rugged beaches. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a protected area with rich biodiversity. Exploring the beaches here, such as Playa Blanca and Playa Damas, allows visitors to experience unspoiled nature and observe unique wildlife. Snorkeling and diving in the surrounding waters offer a chance to encounter various marine species, including sharks and rays.

Bluff Beach

Bluff Beach is a hidden gem located on Isla Colón in Bocas del Toro. This beach is a paradise for surfers, with consistent waves and a laid-back atmosphere. The vast expanse of pristine sandy shores is perfect for long walks and horseback riding. The surrounding jungle is home to diverse wildlife, making it an excellent place for nature enthusiasts and bird-watchers.

Punta Chame

Punta Chame is a stunning beach located on a narrow peninsula in Panama. It's a haven for kiteboarders and windsurfers due to its consistent winds. The beach features a tranquil and undeveloped ambiance, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape. Visitors can enjoy water sports, bird-watching, and beautiful sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.

Punta Duarte

Situated on the Azuero Peninsula, Punta Duarte offers a serene and remote beach experience. It's known for its unspoiled natural beauty, with lush vegetation and abundant birdlife. The pristine beaches are ideal for long walks, and the area is perfect for camping and stargazing. The tranquil waters are also a popular spot for whale-watching during the right season.

Beaches of Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is a coastal village with a variety of beautiful beaches along Panama's Pacific coast. Playa Santa Catalina is a popular surf spot known for its consistent waves, making it a favorite among surf enthusiasts. Playa Estero, a short walk away, offers a more tranquil environment for swimming and sunbathing. The area is also an excellent base for exploring Coiba National Park and its pristine beaches and marine life.

La Punta on Isla Grande

Isla Grande is a picturesque island in the Caribbean Sea near Portobelo. La Punta Beach is known for its inviting shoreline, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The calm waters and colorful coral reefs make it a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving. The island's relaxed ambiance and small fishing village offer a peaceful getaway from the bustle of city life.

Playa Venao

Playa Venao is a famous beach on the Azuero Peninsula, renowned for its consistent surf breaks and lively surf culture. It's a hub for surfers and water sports enthusiasts of all levels. The long sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing and beach sports. The nearby town of Pedasí offers amenities, while the surrounding natural beauty and friendly atmosphere make it a cherished destination.

Coronado Beach

Located along the Pacific coast, Coronado Beach is a popular getaway for Panama City residents and international tourists. The beach is known for its broad sandy shores, providing ample space for beachgoers. The nearby town of Coronado offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and golf courses. The beach is ideal for swimming, beachcombing, and relaxation.

Playa Larga on Isla Contadora

Isla Contadora is part of the Pearl Islands archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. Playa Larga is a serene and beautiful beach with soft white sand and clear waters. It's known for its tranquility and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Visitors can also explore the island's natural beauty and indulge in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

The vitality and color of Panamanian culture come to their purest expression with a delectable culinary heritage. Panama City's status as a UNESCO-recognized Creative City of Gastronomy is well earned, with no ingredient out of reach for this intercontinental shipping hub. Embark on a tantalizing epicurean journey and discover some of the most innovative culinary scenes in the world, blending African, Indigenous, and European influences.

Blending tradition with bold experimentation, expect the unexpected from some of the Western Hemispheres' leading young talents and master chefs. Ready to satiate the most demanding palettes, take a dive into some of Panama's finest culinary offerings.

Donda Jose

Donda Jose is a renowned restaurant in Panama City that offers a unique and creative dining experience. Chef Jose Carles, known for his dedication to locally sourced ingredients, crafts innovative dishes that showcase Panama's culinary diversity. The restaurant's farm-to-table approach ensures that each meal is fresh and flavorful. With a constantly changing menu, diners can expect an exciting culinary journey with dishes that highlight the country's rich gastronomic heritage.

G. Foley's

G. Foley's is a popular Irish pub and restaurant located in the heart of Panama City. This cozy establishment offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and expats alike. The menu features classic Irish and international pub fare, including hearty burgers, fish and chips, and a wide selection of draft beers. Live music and sports events on big screens add to the lively ambiance.

Terrace Restaurant

Situated within the American Trade Hotel in Panama City's Casco Viejo district, the Terrace Restaurant combines elegant dining with a historic setting. The restaurant offers a menu inspired by Panamanian and Latin American flavors, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine in the beautifully restored colonial building or enjoy their meal on the charming terrace overlooking the historic streets of Casco Viejo.

Capt. Anderson's

Capt. Anderson's is a seafood restaurant located in the heart of Panama City. This upscale dining establishment is known for its extensive seafood menu, featuring a variety of fresh catches from both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The restaurant's elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and a wide selection of wines make it a top choice for those seeking a seafood indulgence.

Firefly

Firefly is an upscale restaurant located at The Bristol Hotel in Panama City. It offers a refined dining experience with a menu that blends international and Panamanian flavors. The restaurant is known for its artistic presentation of dishes and a carefully curated wine list. The elegant interior and attentive service create a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a special night out.

Los Anos Locos

Los Anos Locos is a lively and colorful restaurant in Panama City, known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional Panamanian cuisine. The menu features a wide range of local dishes, including ceviche, plantains, and seafood. Live music and dancing often accompany the dining experience, providing a taste of Panama's festive culture.

5inco Panama

5inco Panama is a contemporary restaurant in Panama City that offers a fusion of global flavors with a Panamanian twist. Chef Andrés Madrigal creates innovative dishes that incorporate local ingredients and international techniques. The restaurant's modern and chic design, along with its creative menu, appeals to diners looking for a unique culinary experience.

Tejas Restaurant in JW Marriott

Tejas Restaurant, located within the JW Marriott Panama, offers an upscale dining experience with stunning views of the Panama City skyline. The menu focuses on international cuisine with a Panamanian touch, featuring dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant's elegant decor and attentive service make it an ideal choice for both business and leisure dining.

Makoto

Makoto is a high-end Japanese restaurant in Panama City known for its exquisite sushi and traditional Japanese dishes. The restaurant's skilled sushi chefs create artful and delicious creations using the freshest seafood available. The elegant and serene atmosphere, along with a wide selection of sake and Japanese whiskey, enhances the overall dining experience.

Intimo

Intimo is a boutique restaurant in Panama City that specializes in modern Latin American cuisine. Chef Carlos Alba combines flavors and techniques from across the region to create an ever-evolving menu. The restaurant's intimate setting and open kitchen concept allow diners to engage with the culinary process and enjoy a unique gastronomic journey.

La Vespa Vispa Mare

La Vespa Vispa Mare is a charming Italian restaurant located in the Casco Viejo district of Panama City. This cozy eatery serves authentic Italian dishes, including handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas. The restaurant's relaxed and inviting atmosphere, along with its extensive wine list, makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Azafran

Azafran is a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant in Panama City, offering a fusion of flavors from Spain, Italy, and Greece. The restaurant's menu emphasizes fresh ingredients and creative presentations. Azafran's elegant interior, complete with a wine cellar, provides an ideal setting for a refined dining experience.

Azahar Panama

Azahar Panama is a modern Spanish restaurant located in Obarrio, Panama City. The restaurant offers a menu that reflects the diversity of Spanish cuisine, from tapas to paella. The contemporary interior design and attentive service create an inviting atmosphere for guests to savor the flavors of Spain in the heart of Panama.

No matter what time of year you visit, your arrival will invariably coincide with some of Panama's legendary festivals. Well distributed throughout the year, there is always something around the corner with this country's robust cultural itinerary. Panamanians look for no excuse to shut down streets and celebrate with parades and street parties, an integrated part of quotidian living.

From local religious festivities to international congresses and everything in between, the luxury adventurer will find no shortage of events to pique one's curiosity. Experience song, dance, costume, and parades served up with Latin American flare, Indigenous customs, and Afro-Caribbean vitality. Here are some of Panama's most unique annual events and festivities:

Chiriqui Highlands Flower and Coffee Festival

The Chiriqui Highlands Flower and Coffee Festival is a vibrant celebration held in Boquete, Chiriquí Province. This festival, typically in January or February, pays homage to the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy colorful parades, live music, traditional dances, and, of course, the captivating flower displays. The festival showcases the beautiful floral diversity and the world-renowned coffee produced in the area. It's an opportunity for locals and tourists to come together to celebrate the bountiful harvest and cultural traditions.

Carnaval

Carnaval is one of the most exuberant and widely celebrated events in Panama, occurring annually in the four days leading up to Ash Wednesday. This pre-Lenten festival features colorful parades, music, dancing, and elaborate costumes. While various cities across Panama host their own Carnaval celebrations, Las Tablas and Penonomé are famous for their fierce competition in Carnival Queen elections. Water battles and lively street parties add to the festive atmosphere, making Carnaval a spirited and culturally significant event.

Boquete Jazz and Blues Festival

The Boquete Jazz and Blues Festival is an annual music extravaganza that takes place in the charming mountain town of Boquete. Held in late February or early March, the festival attracts international and local musicians who perform a diverse range of jazz and blues music. Attendees can enjoy a relaxed and intimate setting with open-air concerts, jam sessions, and workshops. The festival promotes a love for music and has a strong emphasis on supporting music education in Panama.

Semana Santa

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a religious and cultural event celebrated throughout Panama during the week leading up to Easter Sunday. This significant week involves processions, reenactments of the Passion of Christ, and religious ceremonies. It is a time for reflection, penance, and devotion for the faithful. The most elaborate Semana Santa celebrations can be witnessed in cities like La Villa de Los Santos and Penonomé, with processions that draw thousands of spectators.

Bocas Del Toro SeaFair

The Bocas Del Toro SeaFair is a lively maritime festival celebrated in the archipelago of Bocas Del Toro on the Caribbean coast. Typically held in September, it features a range of activities including traditional boat races, music, dance, and local arts and crafts. The SeaFair is a festive celebration of the sea and its importance to the local communities, and it's a great opportunity for visitors to experience the unique culture of the Bocas Del Toro region.

Azuero International Fair

The Azuero International Fair, usually taking place in late April, is one of Panama's largest and most anticipated agricultural and cultural festivals. Held in the town of Chitré, Herrera Province, the fair celebrates the country's agricultural heritage with livestock exhibitions, artisanal products, and traditional Panamanian cuisine. It also features cultural presentations, live music, and a carnival atmosphere, making it a family-friendly event that attracts visitors from all over Panama.

Mejorana's Festival

The Mejorana's Festival is an annual music festival that takes place in Guararé, Los Santos Province. Celebrated in September, this event is dedicated to the mejorana, a traditional Panamanian string instrument. The festival showcases folk music, dances, and the craftsmanship of mejorana players. Attendees can enjoy the melodic tunes and the vibrant culture of the Azuero region.

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is a religious holiday celebrated with grand processions, particularly in the city of La Villa de Los Santos. Taking place in June, it honors the Eucharist and the Body of Christ. Elaborate altars are erected along the procession route, adorned with intricate carpets made from colored sawdust, flowers, and other natural materials. The streets come alive with music, dance, and fervent displays of faith, making it a beautiful and culturally significant event.

Sobresaltos Dance Festival

The Sobresaltos Dance Festival is a contemporary dance festival that takes place in Panama City. This event, typically held in October, brings together local and international dance companies to showcase innovative choreography and performances. It aims to promote contemporary dance as an art form and encourage collaboration among dancers and choreographers. The festival features a diverse range of dance styles and offers a platform for emerging talents.

International Film Festival Panama

The International Film Festival Panama, held annually in March, is a significant event in the country's cultural calendar. It features a wide selection of international and Panamanian films, including feature films, documentaries, and short films. The festival includes film screenings, discussions, and workshops, providing a platform for filmmakers and fostering a love for cinema among audiences. It's a great opportunity to explore diverse cinematic narratives and engage with the world of filmmaking.

Compact and brimming with boundless vacation opportunities, Panama delivers a dizzying range of exclusive experiences. Between two coastlines and over a thousand islands, this largely undiscovered and overlooked country presents the ultimate playground for the luxury adventurer. Shrouded in mystique, unearth some of the planet's most biodiverse ecosystems or explore the ruins of Spanish forts along the Caribbean coast.

Whatever your fancy, Panama's boundless natural beauty reinvigorates the spirit with the thrill of discovery and excitement of once-in-a-lifetime activities. Here is a list of some of Panama's most unique experiences:

Spending the night on a San Blas Desert Island

The San Blas Islands, inhabited by the Kuna indigenous people, offer a unique opportunity to experience paradise in its purest form. Spending a night on a deserted island in this archipelago is a truly unparalleled experience. Visitors can savor the simplicity of life, surrounded by pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and the captivating culture of the Kuna. The absence of modern amenities and technology provides a chance to disconnect and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Hiking in Darien National Park

Darien National Park is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in Panama, with lush rainforests and abundant wildlife. Hiking in this pristine wilderness offers an extraordinary adventure. Visitors can explore ancient trails, observe a wide variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles, and witness the unique cultures of indigenous tribes like the Embera and Wounaan. It's an opportunity to immerse oneself in an untouched natural landscape and discover the mysteries of the jungle.

Day Trip with the Embera Indigenous People

A day trip with the Embera indigenous community is a cultural and educational experience like no other. The Embera people welcome visitors into their villages, sharing their customs, traditions, and way of life. Activities may include traditional dances, crafts, and canoe rides along pristine rivers. It's a chance to gain a deeper understanding of Panama's rich indigenous heritage and to interact with communities that have preserved their traditions for centuries.

Mounting Baru Volcano

Mount Baru, Panama's highest peak, provides a challenging and rewarding hiking experience. The ascent offers hikers a chance to witness diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to paramo (high-altitude moorland). Reaching the summit at dawn allows for a breathtaking view of both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The trek provides a physical and spiritual journey that few other experiences can match.

Snorkelling at Isla Coiba

Isla Coiba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its thriving marine life and pristine coral reefs. Snorkeling in these crystal-clear waters unveils an underwater world teeming with colorful fish, rays, sharks, and other marine creatures. It's an opportunity to explore one of the most biodiverse marine environments in the Eastern Pacific and to witness the conservation efforts that have preserved this natural treasure.

Island hopping in Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is an archipelago that offers a unique island-hopping experience. Visitors can explore a variety of islands, each with its own distinct charm. Whether it's the relaxed atmosphere of Isla Bastimentos, the vibrant nightlife of Isla Colón, or the pristine beauty of Zapatilla Island, island hopping allows travelers to savor the diversity of Bocas del Toro and discover their own piece of paradise.

Private Helicopter Ride over the Panama Canal

A private helicopter ride over the Panama Canal provides a bird's-eye view of one of the world's engineering marvels. As you soar above the canal, you can appreciate its intricate locks, Gatun Lake, and lush tropical surroundings. The experience offers a unique perspective on the canal's history, importance, and the vast jungle that surrounds it.

Coffee Farming Tour

Panama is renowned for its high-quality coffee, and a coffee farming tour allows visitors to delve into the process of coffee production. Guided tours take you through the entire coffee-making process, from picking ripe cherries to processing, roasting, and brewing. You can enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Panamanian coffee while surrounded by picturesque coffee plantations.

Monkey Island Tour

Monkey Island, located in Lake Gatun within the Panama Canal, is home to a wide variety of monkey species. Taking a boat tour around Monkey Island allows you to witness monkeys in their natural habitat. These playful creatures may even come close to the boat, providing a unique and close-up experience with Panama's wildlife.

Kite Surf at Punta Chame

Punta Chame is a hotspot for kite surfing in Panama. Its consistent winds and shallow waters make it an ideal location for kite surfers of all levels. The combination of adrenaline-pumping kite surfing and the breathtaking beach setting creates an unforgettable experience for water sports enthusiasts.

Whale Watching in the Pearl Islands

The Pearl Islands, located in the Gulf of Panama, offer an extraordinary opportunity for whale watching. From June to September, humpback whales migrate through these waters. Taking a boat tour during this season allows you to witness these majestic marine giants breaching and frolicking in their natural habitat.

Surfing at Playa Venao

Playa Venao is a renowned surf destination on Panama's Pacific coast. Its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere make it a haven for surfers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, Playa Venao offers the perfect conditions to ride the waves and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

Scuba Diving with Whale Sharks

Coiba National Park is not only known for its biodiversity but also for the opportunity to dive with whale sharks. These gentle giants are the largest fish in the sea, and diving with them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The park's marine life and coral reefs provide a captivating underwater world to explore.

Chiquiri River Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting on the Chiriquí River in Boquete offers an exhilarating adventure. With varying levels of rapids, it caters to both beginners and experienced rafters. The pristine river setting, lush rainforest surroundings, and the thrill of navigating challenging rapids make it a unique and adrenaline-pumping experience in Panama's wild nature.