Panama is one of the most popular retirement destinations, but you don’t need to move out there permanently to experience everything the country has to offer. Panama is a great travel destination if you like beaches, wildlife, and culture. Better still, many hotels, restaurants, and other establishments offer discounts to seniors without you even needing to ask. Discounts are sometimes as high as 40%, which makes for an affordable trip. Below you’ll find additional tips on places to visit in Panama.
Basic Travel Info
The biggest airport in Panama is Tocumen International Airport, located in the capital. There are direct flights form several major cities in the U.S., including Miami, JFK, and Los Angeles. You don’t need a visa to enter — just a passport valid for at least three months — and you can stay for up to 180 days. There are no vaccination requirements, and you’ll only need to take malaria pills if you’re visiting the tropical lowlands during the rainy season.
Panama has its own currency, called the balboa, which is at par with the U.S. dollar. Although prices are in balboas, cash is U.S. banknotes and sometimes balboa coins.
Things to Do Around Panama City
Many of the top attractions in Panama are within or close to the capital, meaning you’ll have plenty to do as soon as you arrive.
Discover the Attractions and Natural Features of El Valle de Antón
Just a short ride, about 1.5 hours west of Panama City, lies the enchanting volcanic valley of El Valle de Antón. This unique location has become a magnet for both expats and weekend travelers seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.
Key Attractions
- Artisan Market: At the heart of this charming town, you’ll find a vibrant local artisan market. It’s the perfect place to explore and purchase handmade crafts, colorful textiles, and authentic Panamanian souvenirs.
- Thermal Pools and Mud Baths: For those looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, El Valle offers soothing thermal pools and therapeutic clay mud baths. These natural attractions provide not only relaxation but also several health benefits.
Scenic Surroundings
The journey to El Valle is equally captivating, as it takes you through picturesque towns like Campana and Chicá. These areas are particularly attractive to bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. The lush landscapes, filled with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, offer a serene escape into nature’s embrace.
With its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, El Valle de Antón promises a memorable experience for anyone looking to explore Panama’s hidden gems. Whether you’re interested in local culture or simply wish to unwind in a breathtaking setting, El Valle is a destination worth visiting.
Casco Antiguo
Panama City as a whole is safer than many other capital cities in Central America. You’ll probably want to spend most of your time in the Old Town, which is called Casco Antiguo. It’s a vibrant, colorful place with brick-paved streets that’s great for taking photos or just wandering around to discover interesting spots.
In addition to being the heart of the food scene in Panama, Casco Antiguo is where you’ll find many of the best museums and architecture. This includes the Panama Canal Museum, the Church of Saint Joseph, the National Theatre, and Palacio de las Garzas (the residence of the president).
Panama Canal
An unmissable attraction is the Panama Canal. This amazing feat of engineering has allowed cargo ships traverse the continent, making a huge impact on global trade. The best time to visit is when ships are scheduled to pass through. Also make sure you leave enough time to watch the documentary on the history of the canal’s construction at the IMAX movie theater and check out the other information at the visitor center.
Biomuseum
Many people visit Panama because they’re interested in the country’s biodiversity. Before you head off to any of the national parks, it’s worth learning more about what you can expect to find by visiting the Biomuseum. The exhibits put everything into context, with explanations about the interdependence between different species, information about the impact of humans on nature, and geological facts about the formation of the isthmus.
Other Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions
Nestled just beyond the bustling high-rises of Panama City lies an extraordinary expanse of tropical rainforest, brimming with opportunities for outdoor adventures and nature exploration. Several national parks within close proximity offer an array of activities for nature enthusiasts.
Discover the Parks
- Parque Soberanía: Known for its extensive trails, this park is a haven for hikers and bird watchers, with a rich diversity of avian species.
- Parque Chagres: Perfect for those who enjoy both the tranquility of nature and the thrill of fishing. The park’s rivers and lakes offer ideal spots for anglers.
- Parque Metropolitano: A unique urban rainforest providing trails that lead to breathtaking views of the city and harbor, offering a convenient escape into nature.
Unique Experiences
For a more immersive exploration, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute offers organized day trips to nearby natural wonders such as Barro Colorado Island. Engaging in these excursions can also provide opportunities to learn through seminars and conferences, opening a window into the ecological and scientific research within the region.
Whether you’re looking to hike, bird watch, fish, or explore caves, the rainforests near Panama City provide a versatile and vibrant natural playground for adventurers and researchers alike.
Exploring the Country Outside the Capital
If you’d like to explore more of the country, your best option is to use Panama City as your base and fly from Tocumen International Airport to one of the other large airports. Although some of these are called international airports, non-domestic flights are mostly limited to nearby countries.
One possibility is to fly to Enrique Malek International Airport in David. In addition to visiting the city itself (best known for its colonial buildings, some interesting museums, and Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra Park), you can use the city as a starting point to reach national parks.
For instance, Baru Volcano National Park is home to the tallest volcano in the country — which you’ll likely want to admire from down below, since it takes around six hours to reach the summit! There’s also Coiba National Marine Park, which features tropical rainforests, beaches with white sands, and coral reefs. In both national parks, you’ll see a wide variety of wildlife, including exotic birds and marine life.
Another option is to fly to Bocas del Toro Airport to reach the Caribbean islands of the country. This is one of the most visited parts of Panama for its idyllic beaches. If you’re feeling active, take advantage of opportunities to go hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. If you’d rather relax, consider visiting a different beach each day. Make sure you include Starfish Beach, which is reachable by water taxi and is where, as the name suggests, the ocean floor is covered in starfish.
Popular Island and Beach Destinations:
Another option is to fly to Bocas del Toro Airport to reach the Caribbean islands of the country. This is one of the most visited parts of Panama for its idyllic beaches. If you’re feeling active, take advantage of opportunities to go hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. If you’d rather relax, consider visiting a different beach each day. Make sure you include Starfish Beach, which is reachable by water taxi and is where, as the name suggests, the ocean floor is covered in starfish.
But Bocas del Toro is just the beginning. Panama boasts a stunning 1,550 miles of coastline with over 1,000 islands. Each destination offers its own unique allure:
- Isla Taboga: Just a short $11 round-trip boat ride from Panama City, this island is perfect for a day-trip with its beautiful flowers, hiking trails, and beaches. Be sure to visit St. Peter’s Church, the second oldest church in the hemisphere.
- Santa Catalina: A haven for scuba divers and surfers, this beach features clear waters and a large marine reserve. It’s the gateway to the Coiba Islands, offering exciting inter-island tours.
- Isla Coiba: Known for its spectacular scuba diving, snorkeling, and whale watching, this marine park is home to the largest coral reef in Central America.
- Azuero Coast: With its long sandy beaches and vibrant surfing spots, the Azuero Peninsula is a favorite among surfers worldwide. Protected wildlife refuges like Islas Cañas and Iguana are perfect for nature enthusiasts, especially during the sea turtle nesting season.
- Arco Seco: Just an hour from Panama City, this stretch of beaches is renowned for its low humidity and sunny weather. Popular spots like Punta Chame and Playa Blanca are ideal for soaking up the sun.
- Caribbean Coast of Colón: Rich in history, this coast offers colonial forts and shipwrecks. The Afro-Antillean culture of Portobelo and Isla Grande adds a unique cultural experience.
- Pearl Islands: Comprising over 200 islands, this archipelago is famous for its historical pearling industry and was the backdrop for a popular reality TV series.
- Guna Yala: An archipelago of 365 islands, this area is governed by the indigenous Guna people. It’s a paradise for surfing, diving, and sailing enthusiasts.
- Gulf of Chiriquí: A wildlife refuge with abundant marine life, the islands here are perfect for ecotourists looking to dive into nature.
- Darién: This largely unexplored region is a treasure trove of tropical forests, rivers, and indigenous cultures, offering world-class sport fishing opportunities.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Panama’s diverse islands and beaches cater to every traveler’s dream.
Opportunities to Experience Indigenous Communities in Panama
Exploring Panama offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of its indigenous communities. Here’s how you can engage with some of the prominent indigenous groups:
Guna Yala
Located in the breathtaking Caribbean archipelago, the Guna people invite visitors to explore their picturesque islands. On 49 of the 365 isles, you can enjoy local hospitality with rich traditions in food, music, and dance. Tourism plays a crucial role in their economy, making it a welcoming experience for travelers interested in their culture and crafts like coconut products and handmade goods.
Emberá and Wounaan
Venture into the heart of the Darien jungle or visit Chagres National Park to meet the Emberá and Wounaan communities. Guided tours offer insightful interactions with village elders, where you can learn about their way of life, cultural heritage, and the natural remedies they use. Admire the artistic basket weaving by the women, renowned for their intricate designs that reflect personal narratives and visions.
Ngäbe and Bugle
The Ngäbe and Bugle communities reside in Panama’s highlands, particularly in the provinces of Chiriquí, Bocas del Toro, and Veraguas. While they are mostly engaged in agricultural work on local farms and are less accessible for visits, their way of living and family-oriented culture hold significant importance in the region.
Bri-Bri and Naso
Indigenous to Northern Panama and nearby Costa Rica, the Bri-Bri and Naso peoples maintain a traditional lifestyle primarily through subsistence farming. Nestled near La Amistad National Park, their remote villages offer a glimpse into life that cherishes isolation as a means of preserving belief systems and cultural practices.
By visiting these communities, you not only witness their diverse lifestyles but also contribute to the sustainability of their cultural heritage. Each group presents a distinct opportunity to learn, appreciate, and respect their traditions and ways of life.
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