Panama is located in Central America and is bordered by Colombia to the south and Costa Rica to the north. Panama connects Central America to South America and at its narrowest is just 37 miles wide, but has miles of Pacific and Caribbean coast to explore as is 480 miles long.
Panama has a wealth of diversity from cloud forests to the north, humid rainforests in the south including Soberania National Park and the Darien National Park which connects Panama to Colombia, the stunning Bocas Del Toro Islands in the northwest which have coral reefs and an array of interesting wildlife, San Blas islands in the south inhabited by the Guna Yala and the marine wonder of Isla Coiba located off the Pacific coast, a one time penal colony which is home to incredible biodiversity on the island and in the surrounding waters.
Wildlife spotting opportunities abound just a few hours from the metropolis of Panama City, in the Soberania National Park and Gatun Lake you may spot white faced monkeys, howler monkeys, Geoffroys Tamarin and sloths. Bird species such as the Keel Billed Toucan and Black Hawk Eagle and for butterfly lovers the gorgeous Blue Morpho butterflies can be seen sparkling in the sun.
In the cloud forests of Boquete different species of birds can be observed including the white throated jacobin and the resplendent quetzal. Head to Bocas del Toro to snorkel soft and hard corals, see dolphins, magnificent frigate birds and sloths in the mangroves. Turtles can be seen nesting on the Pacific coast and a trip to Isla Coiba will reward you with turtles, reef sharks, sting rays, brightly coloured reef fish and between July and November the Humpback whale.
Panama also offers excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures. The highlands of Boquete are known for their coffee plantations and cloud forest hikes, while the Chiriqui Highlands offer thrilling experiences like white-water rafting, zip-lining, and volcano treks. The Embera and Wounaan indigenous communities in the Darien region provide cultural immersion opportunities, allowing visitors to learn about ancient traditions, crafts, and traditional music and dance.
Panama City is a vibrant city and we recommend a stay in the historic Casco Viejo district has interesting colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and rooftop restaurants with views across the city's skyline. The Panama Canal is a magnificent feat and you can learn about the history of the this engineering masterpiece on a guided tour, you can visit the Miraflores locks and witness the huge tankers passing through the canal surrounded by tropical vegetation.
Panama's climate is tropical, with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November but holidays to Panama occur all year round.
Panama's climate is tropical, with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November but holidays to Panama occur all year round.