Best Places to Visit in Panama

Panama is a country located in Central America and South America. The canal cuts through the country, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is a vital shipping route. There are many places to visit in Panama.

Isla Contadora

Isla Contadora is a small island located off the Pacific coast of Panama. It was once an exclusive island for wealthy Panamanians, but now, it’s become one of the most popular destinations for vacationers.

Aside from its pristine beaches, this island offers travelers a wealth of activities. Snorkeling and diving are some of the most popular. There are also tours to see the island’s wildlife. You can even catch a glimpse of sea turtles on the local beaches.

For the most part, life on the island revolves around tourism. Most of the residents are native Panamanians, but some multi-millionaires with summer homes have also chosen to make this island their home.

During the Spanish colonization, Isla Contadora was a distribution center for pearls. Local chiefs supplied pearls to explorers from Spain. African slaves were brought to the island to harvest the pearls. After the pearls were classified, they were shipped to Spain.

Since its development in the 1960s, Isla Contadora has developed into an exclusive vacation destination for the rich. Among those who have stayed here are celebrities like Christian Dior and Elisabeth Taylor.

Contadora has some of the best beaches in the country. Playa Larga is the largest beach on the island, offering soft white sand and turquoise water. However, at low tide, it can be difficult to reach.

Boquete

The small mountain town of Boquete is a must-see destination in Panama. It is located on the edge of the Caldera River and is home to one of the most impressive volcanic peaks in the country.

There are plenty of activities to choose from in the area. Visitors can explore the rainforests, take a canopy tour, or enjoy some of the best surf in Central America. In addition to the natural wonders of the country, you can experience the city’s contemporary architecture and vibrant culture.

For a relaxing vacation, you can try out the hot springs in Boquete. Or go hiking in the Chiriqui Highlands rainforest. You can also enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking in the region.

If you’re looking for adventure, you can try out the canopy tour in Boquete. These tours offer an unforgettable experience. Hanging bridges allow you to get close to the cloud forest and see its unique flora and fauna.

Boquete is a popular destination for backpackers. There are many hotels and hostels, and some of the best international restaurants in the area. Several coffee plantations are also located in the area. Whether you want to sample local produce or learn about the process of producing high-quality Arabica coffee, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Volcan Baru is the highest peak in Panama. You can hike to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Colon

Colon, Panama is a city on the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal. It has a plethora of attractions and activities to keep you busy. The town is known for its high crime rate, so you’ll want to be careful.

The best way to get around Colon is to use a taxi. A taxi can take you to most of the main sights.

One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Gatun Locks. This is a historical site that was the first deep water port in the region. You can explore the locks in a kayak or small boat.

Another popular attraction is the Fort San Lorenzo. This is a World Heritage Site, and it has 17th and 18th century military architecture. Tour guides are available to give you an overview of the area’s history.

The Colon Free Zone is a large duty free zone that is a popular stop for many visitors. There are more than 1,600 stores, so you’ll definitely have a lot of options. In addition to duty free shopping, you’ll find a good number of souvenir shops.

If you’re a seafood lover, Colon is a great place to go for dinner. You’ll find classics like roasted chicken with rice and seafood soup at a reasonable price.