Panama has a wide spectrum of activities to offer to its tourists. It has always been the centre of much activity, due to its unique position and role in the Caribbean. It acts like a ‘stop over’ between the two mighty oceans of Pacific and Atlantic. Panama’s tourist attractions are as exciting and diverse as the country itself.
Panama City, an overview
The capital of Panama, is a mixture of old Spanish influence, modern American vibes, with a tinge of the ‘bazaars’ found in Istanbul or Morocco. The Panama City attractions are the Plaza de Francia, the Paseo de las Bóvedas, the Building of the Court of Justice and the Church at San José. The church is famous for its dazzling golden altar. The ancient historic city of Salón Bolivar is a Site of World Heritage, and is protected by the UNESCO. The most imposing and impressive building of the city is the President’s Palace, which overlooks the coast. Another famous Panama City attraction is the ruins of Veijo, situated 4 miles away from the city. The ruins are the remains of the actual Panama City which was looted and ransacked by Henry Morgan, the Spanish pirate.
The Panama Canal
You have not seen Panama unless you see the Panama Canal. The canal is situated in the western part of the city, and is a major Panama City attraction. The panorama of the canal is breathtakingly beautiful. The workings of the Canal are also very interesting. The Canal was inaugurated in the year of 1914, and on an average it takes 8 hours to finish one transit. On December 31st, 1999, the Republic of Panama assumed the full jurisdiction of the canal, which was previously run by the USA. 30 miles to the northwest of Panama City lay another tourist attraction called Barro Colorado. It is the biggest island in the Gatun Lake. This lake is a man made expanse of water, which was made during the development of the Panama Canal. Gatun Lake is one of the biggest artificial lakes in the world. The island is considered a biological reserve which is maintained by the acclaimed Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.
Balboa
Balboa is a suburb situated between Ancón Hill and the Canal Quays. The American influence prevalent in the region is all too obvious in this suburb. It is one of the premiere Panama tourist attractions, especially for foreigners. Taboga, which is famous for its beaches and luxurious hotels, is but a stone’s throw from here. Another place of interest is the beautiful Pearl Islands, which is mainly frequented by sea-anglers.
Popular Panama Destinations
Bocas Del Toro
The province of Bocas del Toro is made up of an archipelago which consists of seven big islands and an assortment of smaller ones. These islands are located in the Laguna de Chiriqui area which is very famous for its diving sites.
Chiriqui
The province of Chiriquí is characteristically known for its volcanic highlands and lovely cascading waterfalls. This place is full of rivers and magnificent mountains. The province is the home to the inactive Baru Volcano (11,400 ft /3,475m). with its lovely coffee plantations, rivers, and mountains, Chiriqui is a leading Panama tourist attraction.
Darién
The Darien is a thinly populated wilderness region which is situated on the Pan-American Highway. It is the home to the Darién National Park, which is well known for its cornucopia of habitats, which range from sun kissed beaches, to marshes and swamps, interspersed with tropical forests. The park is also considered home to several native Indian tribes.
San Blas Islands
It is an archipelago comprising of 365 islands which is the home base of the Kuna Indian tribe. They are the most organized native group in Panama, both economically and politically. The 40 0dd islands which are inhabited but the Kunas are run by them and are recognized as an autonomic province by the Republic of Panama.
Portobelo
Portobelo was the Spanish garrison town, and three big stone forts stand till date, facing the harbor.
Azuero Peninsula
This is one of the Panama tourist attractions which are much more peaceful and relaxed than the other parts of the country. It is dotted with charming colonial towns, retaining their old world culture, tranquil villages and pristine beaches.