Road Trip Exploring Panama

About the destination: Panama City is the capital of Panama. It is a very cosmopolitan city, with a modern and western vibe but proudly displaying its Hispanic and Indigenous roots. In recent years, Panama City has become an important hub of international commerce and banking. It can satisfy every interest since there are various museums, very nice restaurants and lots of places to dance and have fun in the evening outings. Panama City has a Picturesque and interesting Casco Viejo or Old Town filled with wonderful colonial architecture. El Casco Viejo is a charming neighbourhood, ideal for walking around its historic streets with beautifully restored colonial architecture, its churches and squares, its nice cafes and restaurants that mingle well with the remnants of old times. The Cathedral, the Interoceanic Canal museum, the History Museum are around The Plaza de la Independencia, the city’s main square. A lot more churches, museums and historical buildings are found in this area just a few blocks away from each other. The Palacio de las Garzas, where the President of the country lives, is two blocks to the north. On the east side there is Plaza de Francia and the beautiful walkway called Paseo de las Bovedas, with great views of the city. The amazing Panama Canal, considered one of the greatest engineering marvels in the world, is, undoubtedly, the one big draw of all tourists who come to the city. Growing, inviting, exciting, lively and sleepless, Panama City is the most cosmopolitan and vibrant capital in Central America.

About the destination: Nestled on the northern coast of Panama, Portobelo is a hidden gem teeming with history, culture, and natural beauty. This charming town, founded in the 16th century, was once a bustling port for Spanish treasure fleets. Today, Portobelo seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with the vibrant rhythms of contemporary life, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. One of the main attractions in Portobelo is the series of well-preserved Spanish colonial forts. The San Lorenzo and Santiago de la Gloria fortresses offer a glimpse into the past with their sturdy stone walls and scenic views of the Caribbean Sea. History enthusiasts will appreciate the town's significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site and its role in the transatlantic trade routes. Don't miss the nearby Museo de Portobelo, where you can delve deeper into the town's storied past and marvel at artifacts from the colonial era. Beyond its historical allure, Portobelo is also renowned for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. The town is famous for its annual Black Christ Festival, a deeply spiritual and cultural event that attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The local community's pride in their heritage is palpable, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms to join in the colorful celebrations, lively music, and traditional dances. This rich cultural tapestry makes Portobelo a fascinating place to explore, offering unique insights into Panama's diverse cultural landscape. Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Portobelo as well. The surrounding Portobelo National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're interested in hiking, bird-watching, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, the park offers a variety of activities to suit all interests. After a day of exploration, relax at one of the local seafood restaurants and savor the fresh catch of the day while enjoying the tranquil seaside ambiance. In summary, Portobelo is a captivating destination that promises a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural explorer, or a nature enthusiast, this charming town offers something for everyone. Plan your visit to Portobelo and discover the timeless allure of this Panamanian treasure.

About the destination: Nestled within the heart of Panama, the province of Veraguas is an enchanting destination that promises adventure, relaxation, and an authentic encounter with the country's natural and cultural riches. As the only Panamanian province to touch both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Veraguas boasts an incredibly diverse landscape that ranges from pristine beaches and coral reefs to rolling mountains and lush rainforests. Begin your journey in the provincial capital, Santiago de Veraguas, a vibrant hub where travelers can experience the local way of life. Stroll through the town's bustling markets, savor traditional Panamanian cuisine, and visit the historic Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol to see its striking colonial architecture. From Santiago, take a day trip to the picturesque village of La Yeguada, home to a tranquil reservoir ideal for swimming, fishing, and picnicking amidst a backdrop of forested hills. Nature lovers will find paradise in the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest marine parks in the world. Here, the unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an astonishing array of marine life make for spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving experiences. On the mainland, the Santa Fe National Park beckons with its verdant cloud forests, cascading waterfalls, and myriad of bird species, including the resplendent quetzal. Adventurers can hike the many trails, go river tubing, or simply soak in the serene beauty of the park. For a taste of Veraguas' rich culture and history, venture to the pre-Columbian archaeological site of La Montaña de Coclé, where ancient petroglyphs reveal the mysteries of Panama's indigenous past. Whether you're surfing the waves at world-famous Santa Catalina, exploring secluded coves along the Caribbean coast, or immersing yourself in the local folklore and festivals, Veraguas Province offers an unforgettable Panamanian experience that captivates every traveler's spirit.

About the destination: "Boquete is a small town on the Caldera River, in the green mountain highlands of Panama, about 60 kilometres from the border with Costa Rica. The climate is cooler than that of the lowlands. Its scenic location, temperature, and natural environment make it popular with Panamanians and attracts tourists from all over the world. Boquete is known as the ""Valley of the Flowers"". Still have a rare chance to see the Resplendent Quetzal, or a Howler Monkey in the wild. There are two fairs to celebrate its floral culture. TheFestival of Flowers and Coffee is for 2 weeks between January 12th and the 22th and the Expos Orchid Fair in March. Adventure travel, which includes whitewater rafting, zip lining, ATV and jeep tours, cloud forest trekking, horseback riding, rock climbing and deep water soloing, is a key reason that Boquete, a fairly small town, is growing in popularity for European, American, Latino, and Asian travelers. TheVolcan Baru, Panama's highest point, is literally the easiest place in the world to see both of the worlds great oceans, on a clear day. Plaza Los Establos, located on main street just south of the Main Square, is a nice shopping area with lots of little stores to browse through Boquete.

About the destination: Explore the Enchanting Highlands of Panama Nestled in the lush, verdant landscapes of western Panama, the Highlands, particularly the region around Boquete, offer a captivating retreat for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. This area, known for its cool, crisp mountain air and stunning natural beauty, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those looking to escape the tropical heat. Boquete, often referred to as the "Valley of Flowers," is a charming town that serves as the gateway to this high-altitude paradise, rich with opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural experiences. One of the main attractions of the Highlands is the impressive Volcán Barú, the highest point in Panama. Adventurous souls can embark on a challenging hike to its summit, where they will be rewarded with breathtaking views that stretch from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea. For a more leisurely experience, the region offers numerous trails that wind through coffee plantations, cloud forests, and alongside cascading waterfalls. The Pipeline Trail, in particular, is renowned for birdwatching, as it is home to a diverse array of avian species, including the elusive Resplendent Quetzal. Beyond its natural allure, the Highlands are also a cultural gem. The town of Boquete is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the annual Flower and Coffee Festival, which celebrates the region's rich agricultural heritage. Visitors can tour local coffee farms to learn about the cultivation and processing of some of the world's finest beans, and of course, sample freshly brewed coffee. The area is also dotted with artisanal markets where travelers can purchase handmade crafts and local delicacies. Whether you're scaling the heights of Volcán Barú, exploring the lush trails, or immersing yourself in the local culture, the Highlands of Panama offer a diverse array of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. This hidden gem, with its blend of natural wonders and cultural richness, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to discover the lesser-known treasures of Central America.

About the destination: Nestled within the heart of Panama, the province of Veraguas is an enchanting destination that promises adventure, relaxation, and an authentic encounter with the country's natural and cultural riches. As the only Panamanian province to touch both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Veraguas boasts an incredibly diverse landscape that ranges from pristine beaches and coral reefs to rolling mountains and lush rainforests. Begin your journey in the provincial capital, Santiago de Veraguas, a vibrant hub where travelers can experience the local way of life. Stroll through the town's bustling markets, savor traditional Panamanian cuisine, and visit the historic Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol to see its striking colonial architecture. From Santiago, take a day trip to the picturesque village of La Yeguada, home to a tranquil reservoir ideal for swimming, fishing, and picnicking amidst a backdrop of forested hills. Nature lovers will find paradise in the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest marine parks in the world. Here, the unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an astonishing array of marine life make for spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving experiences. On the mainland, the Santa Fe National Park beckons with its verdant cloud forests, cascading waterfalls, and myriad of bird species, including the resplendent quetzal. Adventurers can hike the many trails, go river tubing, or simply soak in the serene beauty of the park. For a taste of Veraguas' rich culture and history, venture to the pre-Columbian archaeological site of La Montaña de Coclé, where ancient petroglyphs reveal the mysteries of Panama's indigenous past. Whether you're surfing the waves at world-famous Santa Catalina, exploring secluded coves along the Caribbean coast, or immersing yourself in the local folklore and festivals, Veraguas Province offers an unforgettable Panamanian experience that captivates every traveler's spirit.

About the destination: Pedasí, a district of the province of Los Santos, Panama, is a perfect place for beach tourism, although not only can you sunbathe on some of the best beaches in the country, many different activities are offered here. This dream place is perfect for spotting turtles, cetaceans, and is a refuge for a large amount of wildlife. It is admired both for its safety and for its gastronomy, customs, traditions and architecture; Thousands of tourists choose this site to make their vacations the most comfortable of their lives. Pedasí is one of the greatest treasures that Central America keeps, all its corners are welcoming and interesting, it has characteristics that leave all its visitors impressed. It has approximately 24 establishments of different categories that offer you a comfortable stay very close to its beaches. Don't forget to surf at Playa Venao before heading home.

About the destination: Playa Venao is the fusion of jungle and ocean, a picturesque town located on the Pacific coast of the Azuero Peninsula. This attractive destination has black sand beaches and top-notch surfing and is not crowded at all, a luxury. There is very little urbanization here, so you can enjoy your quiet and relaxing holidays without any problem. But, the area is growing, this due to the incredible waves and the beaches. This place offers many different types of accommodations, from boutique hotels, to surf cabins, to camping spots on the beach; There are also amazing options for restaurants and places to shop. Surfing is the main attraction of this beach, the orientation of the beach is perfect for the southern swells. But you can also have fun if you don't like surfing, you can go deep sea fishing, snorkeling, diving, stand up paddle boarding, etc. Don't forget to enjoy its spectacular ecological spa and visit the weekly market in Pedasí.

About the destination: Panama City is the capital of Panama. It is a very cosmopolitan city, with a modern and western vibe but proudly displaying its Hispanic and Indigenous roots. In recent years, Panama City has become an important hub of international commerce and banking. It can satisfy every interest since there are various museums, very nice restaurants and lots of places to dance and have fun in the evening outings. Panama City has a Picturesque and interesting Casco Viejo or Old Town filled with wonderful colonial architecture. El Casco Viejo is a charming neighbourhood, ideal for walking around its historic streets with beautifully restored colonial architecture, its churches and squares, its nice cafes and restaurants that mingle well with the remnants of old times. The Cathedral, the Interoceanic Canal museum, the History Museum are around The Plaza de la Independencia, the city’s main square. A lot more churches, museums and historical buildings are found in this area just a few blocks away from each other. The Palacio de las Garzas, where the President of the country lives, is two blocks to the north. On the east side there is Plaza de Francia and the beautiful walkway called Paseo de las Bovedas, with great views of the city. The amazing Panama Canal, considered one of the greatest engineering marvels in the world, is, undoubtedly, the one big draw of all tourists who come to the city. Growing, inviting, exciting, lively and sleepless, Panama City is the most cosmopolitan and vibrant capital in Central America.