Panama: paradise in Central America
With lush, diverse nature, culture and tradition, a fascinating history and a unique geography that connects Central and South America and the Atlantic with the Pacific and the Caribbean, Panama is a land that radiates all aspects of life with vibrancy and authenticity. In this gallery, we introduce the Panamanian paradises you can’t miss: from Bocas del Toro and Colón island (with its white sands and turquoise waters) to the idyllic beaches of Riviera Pacífica, Pedasí and Santa Catalina (for surfing and scuba diving). Then there are the peaks of Tierras Altas and Boquete with the Barú Volcano (3,474m at its highest point), the coffee plantations of Chiriqui and Portobelo, the historical fortresses of Portobelo – which protected European trade from pirates – and the tropical island of Taboga, where the artist Gauguin lived.
Known as the ‘Island of Flowers’ because of the beauty of its tropical vegetation, Taboga is a volcanic gem located just 20km from Panama City. Its colourful landscapes inspired the painter Paul Gauguin to choose it as the first stop on his prolific adventure through the Pacific. Its calm beaches, delightful architecture and more than 500 years of history make it an ideal destination for a getaway from the capital/ Image by Curioso.Photography:Adobe Stock
Panama City, the former meeting point for explorers and pirates – and today for engineers and businessmen – is the nerve centre of both the country and all of Central America. Just like its famous canal, which has connected two oceans for more than a century, the metropolis offers countless contrasts. Here, the rainforest merges with an urban forest. At the same time, the city’s streets mix the tradition of the Old Town – a gastronomic destination – and the avant-garde of Balboa Avenue, a financial hub by the Pacific / Image by VisitPanama
Not far from Panama City is the most popular tourist zone on the east coast: Riviera Pacífica. Its busy resorts offer activities for all tastes on sunny beaches and in turquoise waters: kitesurfing, golf, snorkelling and fishing are just some of the many activities that can be enjoyed and that offer fun for the entire family / Image by VisitPanama
Perhaps Panama’s best-guarded treasure, Pedasí wildlife refuge is one of the most welcoming corners on the Azuero Peninsula. Here, you can observe humpback whales that, in warmer months, come to these waters to give birth, while black and green iguanas and turtles lay their eggs on the beaches. This coastal village is also an enclave full of traditions, including the popular carnival held since the 19th century. To reach some of its best beaches, you’ll need to hike on some stunning paths / Image by VisitPanama
Santa Catalina is one of the most loved coastal towns for surfers. Both the beach of the same name and the nearby Estero beach are perfect for beginners. Near the shoreline is Coiba Island, which was a penal colony until 2004, with restricted access. Thanks to its isolation, this National Park was able to preserve great biodiversity. Today, it is the world’s third largest marine reserve and offers an unparalleled underwater landscape for scuba diving: there are sharks, barracudas, pilot whales and even killer whales / Image by notsunami:Adobe Stock
On the Bocas del Toro archipelago, on the Caribbean coast, the islands of Colón, Bastimentos and Carenero offer heavenly beaches with white sands and crystal-clear waters, along with leafy tropical forests. In the archipelago’s capital, also called Bocas del Toro, visitors can enjoy Caribbean food and nightlife. In addition, the region has redoubled its efforts to preserve its marine ecosystem, which is home to 95 per cent of the Caribbean’s coral species. This has led the Smithsonian Institute to open a modern research station here / Image by VisitPanama
Portobelo, located in the north of the country on the Caribbean, is where the Americas and Europe shook hands when Columbus arrived in 1502. The history of this place, where Central America’s largest colonial port was once located, has provided Portobelo with an unparalleled architectural and historical landscape. There are forts such as Santiago or San Jerónimo, from where the city defended itself from privateers such as Henry Morgan and Francis Drake, who would lose his life in this bay. This site is also the cradle of Afro-Caribbean culture, with its incredible gastronomy and traditions / Image by SL-Photography:Adobe Stock
The Barú Volcano – at 3,474m, the highest point in Central America – is in Chiriquí. Located between the Tierras Altas and Boquete districts, it creates a mountainous landscape with wonderful outdoor routes that take in natural pools, caves and coffee farms. Its special climate makes it a perfect place for hiking, climbing, rafting and ziplines. Do try the coffee – it’s among the world’s finest / Image by Daniel Lamborn:Adobe Stock
Known as the ‘Island of Flowers’ because of the beauty of its tropical vegetation, Taboga is a volcanic gem located just 20km from Panama City. Its colourful landscapes inspired the painter Paul Gauguin to choose it as the first stop on his prolific adventure through the Pacific. Its calm beaches, delightful architecture and more than 500 years of history make it an ideal destination for a getaway from the capital/ Image by Curioso.Photography:Adobe Stock
