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Why Visit Panama: 15 Reasons To Explore This Underrated Country

When I proposed the idea of a Panama trip to my boyfriend Tim, he responded with “Why visit Panama though? Aside from the canal, what is in Panama?” The answer to that question is a lot more than we thought! 

Panama might be a small country but there are plenty of reasons to visit. Known as the ‘Crossroads of the World’, the country is hugely important in terms of global trade, largely thanks to the Panama Canal. Alongside this, Panama is home to incredible hiking trails, breathtaking nature and some of the world’s best beaches.

If you’ve been considering a trip to this largely overlooked Central American country, read on. I’ll tell you exactly why you need to make sure your next trip is to Panama!   

Read more: (opens in new tab)

• Backpacking in Panama
• Being a Digital Nomad in Panama
• Hiking in Panama – A Guide

Is Panama Worth Visiting? 15 Reasons To Convince You!

This post contains affiliate links. If you use them, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

1. Geographical Diversity

Panama is located in Central America, between the countries of Costa Rica and Colombia. It is one of the world’s only countries to have access to two oceans, the Pacific and the Atlantic. This, combined with its location in the tropics, means that despite being a relatively small country, it is immensely varied.

With bustling cities such as its capital, postcard-perfect island archipelagos and epic mountains in the Chiriqui Highlands, the country is enormously varied. If you’re someone who likes exploring a range of environments, Panama is definitely a country you should check out. 

2. Exotic Wildlife

With a diverse landscape, comes a wealth of exciting wildlife. Although overlooked in favour of neighbouring Costa Rica when it comes to wildlife, Panama is actually home to 255 species of mammal, 222 species of amphibians and a whopping 972 endemic bird species . 

You don’t have to go very far to see wildlife either. Even in small pockets of the most unlikely destinations, wild animals can be found, making Panama a paradise for photographers. If you’re visiting Panama City, don’t miss the walk up to Ancón Hill and keep your eyes peeled for sloths! 

Also read: Amazing animals to spot in Panama .

3. Simple Currency Conversions

Did you know that Panama has two official currencies? The Balboa and the United States Dollar are equivalent in value and are both commonly distributed. This makes it very easy to work out the exchange rate, helpful when you need to stick to a budget. 

4. Easily Accessible

Continently located between North and South America, Panama is easily accessible. Many airlines fly direct from Europe to Panama City’s Tocuman Airport, making it a cost-effective destination to reach. Flights from North America can be pretty short too – Miami is only 2.5 hours away! 

In Panama City, there is also another airport that caters mainly to domestic flights. This means that if you are arriving from Europe or North America, it is very easy to catch an onward flight to other popular destinations in Panama, including Bocas del Toro or David. 

5. Small Size

At just shy of 76,000 km², Panama is a small country. In fact, it is even smaller than Scotland! This is hugely positive for travellers as it means that journeys from place to place rarely take long and many of the most popular destinations are served by buses, a cheap method of transport!

6. Tropical Climate  

Owing to its tropical location, Panama benefits from warm weather and sunny days year-round. Although some areas of the country are cooler (for example, Boquete in the Highlands), temperatures rarely get cold.

The Atlantic side of the country also referred to as the Caribbean Coast, is generally hotter than the Pacific side but both can be humid. Don’t forget to bring your suncream if you’re planning a bit of beach time! 

7. Largely Off The Radar

Panama is regularly overlooked by tourists in favour of other Central and South American destinations. It really shouldn’t be though! The plus side of the comparatively few tourists is that attractions tend to be less crowded and parts of Panama still feel quite wild – a huge draw for those who don’t like their holidays to feel too manicured. 

8. World-Class Beaches

No matter whether you’re talking about the surfing hotspot of Santa Catalina, the black sands of Playa Venao or the palm-fringed islands of the San Blas, there is no denying that Panama is home to some truly stunning beaches.

With beaches perfect for surfing, spotting wildlife and, of course, relaxing, I would go as far as saying that Panama is home to some of the best beaches in the entire world! Trust me when I say you need to see them for yourself.  

Also read: A guide to visiting Starfish Beach, Bocas del Toro .

9. Exciting Cuisine

While I’ll bet good money you don’t know much about Panamanian cuisine at the moment, this will certainly change after you visit the country. Boasting fresh seafood and warming broths, the food in Panama is varied, filling and tasty. 

And the best thing? The price! While the tourist scene is still very much up and coming in many areas across the country, Panamanian fare is likely to be the only thing on offer in many places. Catering to the locals also means that prices stay low. 

Top tip! Don’t miss the excellent geisha coffee – the quality comes through in every sip. 

10. Low Cost of Living

Although Panama is one of the more expensive countries in Central America, the cost of living in this country is much reduced when compared to life in the US or Europe. This means that travellers coming from these places will see their money go further. This is one of the factors that make Panama such an appealing destination for digital nomads . 

Also read: Things to do in Panama City for budget travellers .

11. Amazing Hiking Trails

Before visiting Panama, I had no idea that it was such an appealing destination for hikers. From trails through enigmatic cloud forests to dirt track slogs up to epic volcanoes, Panama is a wonderful place for hikers.

Many of the country’s trails can be tackled independently provided you have access to something like maps.me or AllTrails . Just remember to pack hiking clothes to withstand the heat – Panama is super humid so you’ll want to wear breathable clothes when you’re on the trail! 

Also read: Panama packing list.

12. Paradise Islands

More than 1,600 islands belong to Panama , meaning that there are plenty of idyllic spots to while away a few days. Although it can be hard to choose between them, I’d strongly encourage you to make some time to see the San Blas Islands (Guna Yala). 

This archipelago has a different island for every single day of the year and they are all unique and different. Many of these islands are little more than tiny rocky outcrops whereas others are home to growing communities. To get the most out of visiting San Blas, head off on a multi-day tour so you can explore as many of the coconut-clad islands as possible. 

Also read: How to get to the San Blas Islands, Panama

13. Rich Culture

Panama is home to a melting pot of culture and tradition which is still evident today. A blend of Panamanian, Spanish and African cultures has influenced the entire country, from food to clothing. 

Today there are seven indigenous peoples of Panama within the country, the Emberá, the Buglé, the Bri bri, the Naso Tjërdi, the Wounaan, the Ngäbe and the Guna. The latter is the most famous as they govern the popular tourist destinations of the San Blas Islands. 

14. Incredible Infrastructure

You may be surprised to learn that Panama is actually home to some of the best infrastructure in the whole of Central America. High-speed internet is available pretty much country-wide and the capital is home to the epic Panama Canal, a trading heavyweight. 

As well as this, Panama is a free-trade zone with a burgeoning banking scene, high-end hotel market and excellent real estate. 

15. An Adventure Playground

If you’re someone who is always searching for the next buzz when you travel, Panama may well be your dream destination. The opportunities to get your blood pumping are endless here, from diving and surfing on the coast to hiking, zip-lining and rafting in the cloud forest.

Far better than the question “why visit Panama?” is “why wouldn’t you?” This small but mighty country offers world-class attractions, all in one tiny and eminently accessible package. While it might not be the first destination you had in mind, it is sure to leave a long-lasting memory. 

Have you visited Panama before? What was your experience? 

18 things to know before traveling to Panama

Dec 20, 2023 • 7 min read

We've got the lowdown on everything you need to know before visiting Panama © Westend61 / Getty Images

If you're looking for idyllic islands, rolling surf, untamed nature and showstopping wildlife,  Panama  is an ideal destination. It sits at the crossroads of the Americas, connecting two oceans, and beyond its cosmopolitan capital and legendary canal , Panama is a biodiversity hotspot. Did you also know it produces some of the world's  finest – and most expensive – coffee?

Here is the top things to know before you go to Panama.

1. Book ahead if you want to join a fiesta

Panamanians love to party, and barely a week goes by without a fiesta, from La Feria de las Flores y del Café in Boquete to the countrywide Carnaval, whose largest and loudest celebrations are in Las Tablas on the Península de Azuero .

There’s also Easter, Christmas and New Year’s. November’s numerous independence-related festivals see shops and offices closed and locals flocking to the beach. Hotel prices often double around public holidays and can be booked out weeks in advance.

2. Pack for the season: dry or wet

The country’s tropical climate means two seasons – hot and dry from December to April and hot and wet the rest of the year. Although the amount of rain depends on what coast you’re on, downpours usually come in short, sharp afternoon bursts before the sun forces you to put your Panama hat back on.

Pack high-factor sunscreen and hot-weather clothes, but carry something for the icy air-conditioning and high altitudes. Pack sturdy boots if you’re planning any hardcore hikes.

3. Carry the right amount of currency

The Panamanian Balboa may be the country’s official currency, but the bills in use are US dollars. Prices are listed in $ or B/, but both currencies have the same value.

Carry small bills for tipping, markets and rural areas, and enough cash in case the ATM doesn’t work (or there are no ATMs at all like in the Archipiélago de San Blas of the Comarca de Guna Yala ). 

4. You can’t reach Colombia by road

If you’re thinking of road-tripping south to Colombia , think again. The infamous Darién Gap – the land link between Central and South America – is a mash-up of impenetrable jungle, primordial swamps, poisonous snakes and dubious characters, and there’s no road crossing.  

But if you plan to head north to Costa Rica and beyond, several long-distance bus lines, such as Tica Bus, cover Central America.

5. Know a few keys phrases (and what not to say)

English is widely spoken, especially in Panama City and Boquete, but mastering a few basic Spanish phrases will endear you to the locals and help if you travel away from the tourist hotspots.

Panama may be laid back, but it’s important to be polite. Always greet people – buenas is a catch-all term for hello – and don’t forget to say please ( por favor ) and thank you ( gracias ). Listen out for one-of-a-kind Panamanian phrases, such as que sopa? (what’s up?), buco (a lot), and pinta fria (cold beer).

It's best to avoid subjects involving politics, religion, the Panama Canal and the Panama Papers out of respect to Panamanian residents.   

6. Learn to be more tranquil

Panama moves at a relaxed pace, including in the city, so don’t expect lightning-fast responses to requests. As in most of Central America, punctuality is a loose concept, and service in restaurants can be leisurely – meals are meant to be enjoyed and can stretch over several hours – so it's wise to adjust to the gentle flow of life here. Slow down and relax when you arrive in Panama.

7. The capital has its own dress code

Panamanians dress casually as a rule but tend to be a bit formal in the capital. You don’t have to wear suits or high heels, but the faded T-shirts, short shorts and flip-flops that were fine in Bocas del Toro will look out of place in the city. Also: shirtless men are an absolute no-no.

8. Confirm the fare before taking a cab

Panama’s yellow licensed taxis can be a wallet-friendly way to get around but don’t forget to negotiate a fare before you set off. Taxis aren’t metered, official rates are usually ignored, and tourists are typically overcharged. Ask a local for an idea of a taxi fare cost in advance.

Uber and Lyft are also available in Panama City (although drivers are often willing to go cross-country), along with UberEnglish for non-Spanish speakers and UberAssist for people with mobility issues. 

9. When should you tip, and how much?

Tips aren’t compulsory, but they are welcome. In pricier restaurants, if it’s not already been added onto your bill, leave a 10% gratuity. Taxi drivers don’t expect a tip, but you can round up a fare, and if someone helps you with your luggage, give them around $1 to $2.

10. Respect smoke-free zones

Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public spaces, hotel rooms, workplaces, public transport, outdoor dining spaces and sports venues. You can face a fine if you’re caught smoking in a non-designated area. The same goes for vaping. It’s illegal to import and sell e-cigarettes.

11. Bring repellent to avoid mosquito bites 

Not only are mosquito bites itchy, but they can also spread diseases such as dengue fever, so use a heavyweight bug spray, especially if you’re heading to the jungle.

12. Can I drink the water?

With a combo of heat and humidity, it’s important to keep hydrated, particularly if you plan to get active. Tap water is normally safe to drink, especially in cities, but if you’re going off the beaten track, avoid plastic pollution and invest in a water-filter bottle, which you can fill up from any water source.

13. Stay safe in the city

Panama is one of the safest countries in Central America, but it always pays to take a few precautions. Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas of Panama City, including bus stations, markets and shopping areas, so keep your valuables safe.

As in any big city, steer clear of poorly lit streets or wandering around new neighborhoods alone after dark. Avoid carrying all your credit cards at once – or wads of cash – and if you need an ATM, try to use one inside a bank during the day.

Report a crime by dialing 511 9260 (the Tourist Police in Panama City) or 104 (National Police), and keep the number of your embassy handy.

14. In case of a medical emergency

If you need emergency medical assistance, dial 911 for an ambulance. Panama City has good hospitals and clinics, but facilities are more limited outside the capital.

Make sure you have adequate travel insurance and read the fine print before you depart.

15. Keep an eye on the weather  

Before you take the plunge on Panama’s two coastlines, check for strong currents or riptides. Inland, heavy rains can cause flash flooding and landslides – October and November are usually the wettest months – so check the weather forecast and follow local advice before hitting the hiking trails, especially if you're going without a local guide.

16. Be wary when interacting with wildlife

While the risk is low, keep your eye out for venomous snakes, such as the fearsome fer-de-lance, while trekking along jungle trails, and avoid swimming in rivers unless you know they’re crocodile-free.

17. Always carry a copy of your ID

Foreign visitors are asked to carry their passports at all times, and the police sometimes check, but it’s safer to carry a photocopy or photo of the opening pages and entry stamp and leave the real thing somewhere secure.

18. Steer clear of drugs

Panama takes its drug laws very seriously. Getting caught with a small amount of illegal drugs, or even being with someone who is using drugs or has them in their possession, is grounds for arrest and can lead to a heavy fine or a harsh prison sentence.

This article was first published May 2022 and updated December 2023

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30 Travel Tips for Visiting Panama for the First Time

Panama flies under the radar in Central America as travelers typically head to Costa Rica for their vacations in this part of the world. But it would be a mistake to overlook the land connecting Central and South America because there is so much beauty on offer. From epic beaches to lush mountains, Panama is one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

If you are considering a trip to Panama, whether flying from the US or heading down the continent on a road trip through the Americas, there are some important things to know for your first visit. In this article, we will be equipping you with Panama travel tips that will set you up for the journey of a lifetime. Discover the wild side of Panama that you never knew existed!

30 Travel Tips for Visiting Panama

1. visit in december – april for the best weather.

December to April is the dry season where the beaches and hiking trails are at their most alluring. May to November is the rainy season. Since Panama lies just north of the equator, tropical rainstorms are frequent here (especially on the Caribbean coast) but the downpours usually only last an hour or two. The weather is still warm during the rainy season and there are some cool festivals to attend during these months, so keep that in mind.

2. Arrive in Panama by Plane, Bus or Ferry

Tocumen International Airport is the country’s principal airport located in Panama City. There are many direct flights from the US such as from Miami and Houston. You can also fly in from a select few South American or Central American cities. Costa Rica is the neighboring country to the north and it’s common for travelers to book a bus trip over the border from Paso Canoas, Costa Rica. The other option is to book a ferry ride from Colombia.

3. Book your Tours with a Quality Local Guide

If you would like to experience the beauty of Panama in the company of a friendly guide we suggest getting in touch with a local called Jenny who runs El Trip de Jenny . Her trips are focused on eco-friendly adventures in awesome places like Bayano Caves, San Blas Islands and Venas Azules. Jenny also organizes free walking tours in Panama City, specifically in the Casco Antiguo area with its old quarter charm and fascinating history.

4. Stay in Panama City for at least a Few Nights

Panama City is the first port of call for most travelers to the country and one of the most important Panama travel tips we would like to stress is to stay here for a while. The capital is a cosmopolitan place full of historic neighborhoods, commercial skyscrapers, vibrant restaurants, and hip hotels and bars. The best way to get acquainted when you first arrive is to book a free walking tour to see the main sights and learn about the city’s heritage.

5. Try the Most Traditional Panamanian Foods

Panamanian cuisine is made up of a crossroads of flavors due to its location at the connecting point of land masses. The food is one of the unexpected highlights of the country and you will be spoilt for choice when looking for a place to eat. The restaurants are great, the street food is fantastic and the foodie tours are even better. Make sure you try Sanchocho (chicken soup), Ropa Vieja (beef stew), Tamales, Ceviche and Panamanian Tortillas.

6. Learn some Basic Spanish Before you Go

Most people speak Spanish in Panama and your experience in the country will be ten times better if you can speak a few words. You don’t have to be fluent to do things like greet people, order food and ask for directions. It’s estimated that only 7% of Panamanians speak English fluently so you shouldn’t rely too heavily on your native tongue. If you plan on staying in Panama for a few months, why not take Spanish lessons before you go?!

7. Get around the Country by Bus or Car Rental

The cheapest way to get around is by using the bus system. Long distance buses are equipped with all the modern comforts you would expect like air-conditioning. The other option is to rent a car and drive around on your own schedule. In most cases, you need to be at least 25 years old to hire a vehicle. Keep in mind that insurance should be sorted before you hit the road. Car insurance is one of the most important Panama travel tips.

8. Pick a Selection of Different Accommodations

There are some cool places to stay in Panama if you have the budget for it. Consider booking an overwater bungalow in Bocas del Toro or an airbnb in Casco Antiguo. The San Blas Islands also offer cabins where you can rest your feet for a couple of nights while island hopping. For budget travelers, boutique hostels like Magnolia Inn provide a unique setting for a portion of the price. Research online before you go to find the best stays!

9. Spend a Couple of Days in Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is Panama’s premier tourist destination and every article talking about Panama travel tips will say the same thing. Home to a vibrant Caribbean culture and a lovely chain of islands, the laid-back atmosphere of Bocas will carry you away from all the worries of modern life. No trip to Panama is complete without exploring this area for a couple of days. It’s a great place to kick off your Panama trip if you are arriving from Costa Rica.

10. Go Island Hopping around the San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands consist of 365 islands – one island for every day of the year! To fully experience this paradise travelers can book a multi-day tour from Panama City which hops from one stunning cay to the next. But for those short on time, a full day experience in the San Blas Islands with El Trip de Jenny is the next best thing. On this day tour, guests will stop by two picturesque islands and see the famous “natural swimming pool”.

11. Check Out some Other Islands in Panama

Panama offers so much more than just Bocas and San Blas when it comes to island adventures. Taboga Island is situated just off the coast of Panama City and is known as “The Island of Flowers”. Jump on a 30 minute ferry ride from the Panamanian capital and find yourself in an oasis of tranquility just outside of the city. Book the Taboga Island Weekend Trip with El Trip de Jenny to explore the island, while staying in a gorgeous tropical lodge.

12. Find the Dreamiest Secret Beaches of Panama

Whether you want to go snorkeling, swimming or sunbathing – Panama is blessed with an array of secret beaches across both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro is where you can go swimming amidst colorful starfish, Playa Venao is the ultimate surfing spot to tear up the waves and make new backpacker friends, and the beaches in Venas Azules take the word “paradise” to new definitions.

13. Give Surfing a Go on the Azuero Peninsula

Surfers can find some stunning breaks and barrels at the many surf spots of Panama. The Azuero Peninsula is home to two amazing beaches called Playa Venao and Cambutal. Here, pro-surfers can ride big waves or beginners can book a surf lesson if they need practice standing up. This peninsula hosts surfing competitions throughout the year and offers some other attractions as well, like sea turtle nesting and ecotourism adventures.

14. Witness the Wildlife and Biodiversity of Panama

Panama’s biodiversity is nothing short of breathtaking. The rainforests and coastal regions of the Isthmus provide a home to many interesting animal and plant species. For example, birds are one animal that can be found in abundance. Listening to their calls as you hike through lush rainforests is a bucket-list experience every traveler will take pleasure in. Then you have species of wild cats, a range of primates and various types of sloths.

15. Hike the Incredible Trails of El Valle de Anton

El Valle de Anton is a volcanic crater that was formed millions of years ago. In this mountainous area hikers can hit the trails up epic peaks, traverse canyons and cool down under the spray of waterfalls. One of the most beautiful hikes you can do in this region is the Cerro Picacho Sunrise Hike. Once you make it to the top (as the sun begins to rise), you will be rewarded with a golden glow covering the ridges and surrounding lands.

16. Chase Epic Waterfalls in the Chiriqui Province

The connected ecosystems and consistent rainfall of Panama means there is no shortage of waterfalls to see. The Chiriqui province in the west has several great jungle hikes that lead you to these incredible drops of water. The Lost Waterfalls, the Pipeline Trail, the Choclon Waterfall, the Thunder Waterfall (Cascada Del Trueno), and the Romelio & Kiki Waterfall are just a few of the waterfalls we recommend in this Panama travel tips guide.

17. Head into the Bayano Caves for a Fun Adventure

The Bayano Caves, located on the south side of Bayano Lake, are a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. These caves are best explored with a tour operator so all the transport, gear and guidance can be provided. We recommend getting in touch with El Trip de Jenny for their Bayano Caves Trip which takes you on a full day adventure to the caves. Cavers experience a river walk/wade, cave explorations and potential bat sightings.

18. Explore the Various National Parks of Panama

The natural wonders of Panama don’t stop at islands and beaches. Indeed, the country is dotted with extraordinary national parks that take adventure tourism to the next level. Baru Volcano National Park boasts the highest peak of the country (3,474m above sea level), La Amistad International Park seduces with its eerie cloud forest, Coiba National Park is a wildlife wonderland and Soberania National Park is famous for its avian biodiversity.

19. See the National Flower – Peristeria Elata

The national flower of Panama is called “Flower of the Holy Spirit” or Peristeria Elata . It’s characterized by tall spikes that blossom these white orchards with a perfect dove in the center. They have to be seen to be believed! Because of the dove the flower is connected with the “Espiritu Santo” and is considered a spiritual flower. You can see these flowers all over Panama but one place we suggest is La Orquidea, El Valle de Anton.

20. Dive into the Rich History of Panama

History-lovers will get a thrill out of traveling to Panama since the country has been a crossroads since time immemorial. The Mayan and Aztec civilizations couldn’t make it to Panama due to the jungles of the Darien. However, the country is home to seven indigenous groups which you can meet in places like Bocas del Toro. The Spanish took control in the early 16th century and then Panama won its independence from Spain in 1821.

21. Attend a Festival or Carnival in Panama

Throughout the year Panama holds a number of exciting festivals and carnivals that give travelers the chance to experience the rich culture of the country. Las Tablas Carnival, for example, is a wild celebration taking place in Las Tablas every year where 200,000 people hit the streets. A variety of parades, parties and fireworks are on display during this time. The event runs every July but has been canceled recently due to the pandemic.

22. Taste the World’s Most Expensive Coffee – Geisha

Panama is home to the most expensive coffee in the world. It’s called Geisha Coffee and it can sell for over $1,000 per pound! The plant known as “Geisha” (which has nothing to do with Japan by the way), grows in the Chiriqui highlands but its origin is Ethiopian. There are differing varieties of Geisha found around the world but the Panama version, with its gentle scents of jasmine and peach, has become the most famous.

23. Enjoy a Range of Great Vegan/Vegetarian Foods

In rural parts of Panama, the vegan and vegetarian food options are limited but in Panama City (and other cities) it’s common to find nice vegan food. Dishes like vegan and vegetarian nachos, salads and soups can be tried at the various vegan-friendly restaurants. Although Panamanian cuisine is primarily tailored for meat-eaters, vegan travelers can still find enough of a menu to keep them fueled for their travels around the country.

24. Pack Light but Prepare for the Unexpected

The highs during the dry season creep above 30°C and only drop to the mid twenties at night, so you should pack light. Bring all the usual summer items like t-shirts, shorts, flip-flops, sunhats, sunglasses, etc. but also take a raincoat just in case it rains. You will also want to bring a decent pair of hiking boots. If you come during the rainy season, you can expect similar temperatures just with more rain. Some extra wet weather gear is required.

25. Expect to Travel Through a Safe Country

One of the most frequently asked questions for those in need of Panama travel tips is the following: is the country safe? In short, yes Panama is safe for travelers of all kinds – whether you be solo backpackers, travel couples, groups of friends or families with children. Central America has a reputation for crime, yet Panama bucks the trend with low incidences of crime and corruption. Panama City is safe as long as you keep your wits about you.

26. Bring your US Dollars to Spend in Panama

US Dollars (USD) are accepted in Panama alongside the other currency, the Panamanian Balboa (PAB). While traveling with bucket loads of cash is never a good idea (it could get misplaced), having a bit of cash on you at all times is preferable since there aren’t many ATM’s in the rural areas. Sometimes it can be hard to pay with a credit card. Keeping your cash locked up in safes at the hotel or in a secure bumbag are smart strategies.

27. Travel Visa-Free for up to 90 Days or 180 Days

Panama is an easy country to travel to. Most passport holders can visit the country visa-free for up to 90 days. These include the following countries: Australia, Brazil, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, Thailand, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Other nationalities can stay for up to 180 days visa-free including: Canada and the United States of America. You can always get in touch with your local embassy or consulate for more info.

28. Organize a Sim Card for Fast Internet Access

The Internet runs smoothly in places like Panama City. As soon as you get out into the countryside, however, things slow down. The best way around this is to buy a sim card and make sure it gets access in all corners of the country. Do research before you go or ask locals in Panama City which cell phone carrier is the best. If you are not fussed about the Internet, there are many places in Panama where you can enjoy a detox from your phone!

29. Budget to Spend at least $50 USD Per Day

Panama is cheap but it’s not as cheap as other countries in Latin America. If you are traveling on a budget, you can get by on $50 USD per day which will cover transport, accommodation and food – with a little left over for tours. For those who like to stay at nicer hotels, your budget will need to be between $100 – $200 USD per day to cover those costs. At the end of the day, a trip to Panama can be as cheap or expensive as you make it.

30. Make Friends with the Welcoming Local People

The people of Panama are a melting-pot of different cultures – so it doesn’t matter where you come from, you will be welcomed into this multicultural mix. With every chance you get, be sure to speak with the locals and make new friends along the way. Panamanians are super friendly and they love hanging out with folks from around the world. Get in touch with local tour operators, like El Trip de Jenny , to forge these new connections.

Final Panama Travel Tips

These Panama travel tips provide visitors with a detailed intro to this beautiful Central American country. While it’s nice to travel to a new place with some pre-hand knowledge of where to go and what to see, the only real way of experiencing Panama is to go yourself and see where your feet lead you. You might want to book accommodation and tours before you go, but the rest can be planned spontaneously once you arrive. Happy travels!

Author:  Cameron Kennedy

Cam is a New Zealander who has been traveling the world since he was young. From family trips in Egypt and Jordan as a teenager, to solo backpacking South America at 18, to currently exploring Southeast Asia with his partner Kat - Cam is a traveler through and through.

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Panama trip offers new perspectives

By Janette Neuwahl Tannen [email protected] 03-27-2024

Until recently, Carmen Chavez had spent just a few days in Panama, but never got the chance to truly understand its history and culture.

Yet during spring break, Chavez, a doctoral student studying environmental science and policy, along with 12 other graduate students studying law or the environmental sciences spent the week in the central American nation learning about its history as a shipping thoroughfare, and its progress in coastal management and ecotourism.

“Panamá is a beautiful place with phenomenal, generous people,” said Chavez, a native Peruvian who is earning her Ph.D. in the University’s Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy . “It’s a country of geographic, biological, and cultural diversity, and it has been so central for global commerce that its people have been stirred constantly with so many different cultures passing through.”

Guided and organized by Daniel Suman, professor of environmental science and policy at the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science , and a native Panamanian, the students spent a week learning about the conflict between the nation’s environmental protection policies, as well as the isthmus’ desire to grow economically.

As part of the class, called “Tourism, Conservation, and Development: Fieldwork in Coastal Management,” students visited the Panama Canal locks and spoke with the canal’s director of watershed management, said Suman, who also serves as adjunct professor in the School of Law. They learned about the challenge to provide enough drinking water for Panamanians from Lake Alajuela, which feeds water into the Panama Canal, while also keeping up with the ship traffic through this major trade route. The class also spoke with environmental groups about the deforestation of its mangroves as part of the explosive growth of Panama City.

As a former Spanish colony, the nation has several historical sites in its capital, Panama City, and the class visited a few of them. They learned from archaeologists and restoration architects about the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the San Felipe Old Quarter and “Panamá Viejo,” founded more than 500 years ago by Spanish explorers. The group also stopped by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute , and learned about the nation’s vast tropical forests, rich ecosystems, and efforts to craft sustainable solutions to its socioeconomic and environmental challenges.

The students also spent four nights living inside the forests of Chagres National Park with families in the Quebrada Ancha village, who are trying to attract tourists to the area. Just a few kilometers from the village, students enjoyed hiking part of the Camino Real, an old Spanish colonial road once used for transporting Peruvian gold and silver from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean. Isabella Lopez, a master’s candidate from the Rosenstiel School, said she enjoyed traversing the route and seeing a sloth along the way.

“Having the opportunity to go to a different country as part of a class is really cool, and this was an incredible experience that I don’t think too many people get to have,” Lopez said.

Now, students are crafting research projects about their Panama experience, which will integrate interviews with locals and experts conducted during the trip. Chavez is working on a piece about the tension between natural beauty, which most Panamanians feel is their country’s strongest asset, with their struggle to survive economically. This has resulted in some people living in the Chagres River watershed killing native jaguars to save their own cows, and others converting forest to agricultural lands. Meanwhile, some of these people are also trying to build their own tourism businesses, so that they have alternative livelihoods to subsistence farming.

Speaking to Panama residents about these different obstacles was Lopez and Chavez’s favorite part of the trip.

“It was an incredible experience getting to know real people with a long history attached to the natural place where they made their family, and their living,” Chavez said. “That type of connection to the land is often hard to find in American society, so seeing these families so deeply rooted in a place was fascinating and very enriching.”

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The key answer of exercise 1

The key to exercise solutions in chapter 5.4 - Beach barbecue for the textbook Speakout Elementary - Students' Book with authors Frances Eales and Steve Oakes from Pearson Education

Look at the photo and read the text. Then answer the questions.

• an English chef
• cooking outside on a barbecue
• Alonissos, a Greek island
• stuffed squid