“In recent years, this pristine Central American country has emerged as a highly sought-after destination for superyacht enthusiasts around the globe, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, strategic location and world-class infrastructure.”
This paradise-like country offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you prefer a brief sightseeing trip or an immersive adventure in Panama’s forests and famous islands, you are guaranteed to enjoy your time ashore. This article by Panama Yachting Agent by Norton Lilly showcases their dependable assistance to ensure a smooth experience during your time in Panama.
Panama Canal
Considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, the Canal connects the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea and is a top attraction even for Captains and Crew. It is considered as such because of how it revolutionised maritime travel by reducing the amount of time ships spent at sea.
At a 15-minute drive from Panama City, travellers can visit the maritime wonder by going to the Miraflores Visitor Center. There, people have the chance to watch the ships in transit and learn about its history and technology. Visitors can also make it a day trip by going to the Agua Clara Visitor’s Center on the Atlantic side of the Canal, an hour away from the capital.
Panama City
As a bustling coastal capital, Panama City is known to have a unique mixture of modern luxury and rich cultural heritage. Situated along Panama Bay, it offers high-end shopping and fine dining, as well as the restored historic area of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visitors can explore the remains of Panama Viejo, the first city established in 1519, or wander around Casco Antiguo, which has colourful avenues lined with museums, hotels, and exciting nightlife. The city comes alive at night with rooftop bars, clubs, and five-star restaurants serving a vast range of cuisine. Outside the urban landscape, Panama City is surrounded by natural beauty, with parks ideal for hiking and birdwatching, such as the Metropolitan Park.
San Blas Islands
The indigenous territory of Guna Yala is vastly known as the San Blas Islands. Located on the Caribbean side of Panama, the archipelago made out of 365 small islands is a top destination for anyone who enjoys crystal clear water and untouched natural beauty. Travellers can spend a relaxing time swimming, snorkelling, island hopping and reconnecting with nature.
One of the things that make this destination so special is the Guna indigenous group, who reside in over 50 islands. Visitors get the incredible opportunity to experience their traditions and culture, and even leave with a unique souvenir, the Molas. It is a traditional textile of the Guna people which beautifully showcases their cosmogenic beliefs.
The San Blas Islands are the perfect place to partake in a Digital Detox because there is no internet access. This means visitors also cannot use credit card payments, so they need to have enough US dollars in their pocket, because it’s the only acceptable method of payment.
Gulf of Chiriqui
The Gulf of Chiriqui is a hidden gem that provides an abundance of activities along with its beautiful scenery. Over twenty islands, including Isla Bolaños, Isla Parida, and Boca Brava, can be found in this gorgeous national park. They are all encircled by some of the most dense mangrove forests and immaculate white-sand beaches in Central America.
The gulf is well-known for its incredible biodiversity and is home to one of the biggest coral reefs in the Pacific, which makes it a popular place to dive and snorkel. Parque Nacional Coiba is one place where you may see the Coiba howler monkey. Furthermore, the Gulf of Chiriquí is one of the few locations where humpback whales from both the northern and southern hemispheres migrate to give birth, offering visitors a breathtaking sight.
Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is a tropical paradise on Panama’s Atlantic coast, known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white-sand beaches. With nine main islands and countless islets, the archipelago offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Isla Colón, the largest and most developed island, is home to Bocas Town, where travellers can enjoy a wide range of accommodations, nightlife, international cuisine and various activities, such as snorkelling vibrant coral reefs. Another large island, Isla Bastimentos, is home to the Afro-Caribbean community of Old Bank and Panama’s first marine park, Bastimentos National Marine Park, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. With just a 45-minute flight from Panama City, Bocas del Toro is the perfect destination for a tropical getaway.
Pearl Island Archipelago
The Pearl Islands, located on Panama’s Pacific coast, are a peaceful and luxurious retreat ideal for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation. The islands were once destinations for the wealthy and famous, but now they provide breathtaking natural beauty to everyone.
Visitors can explore the area’s many beaches, either relaxing at Contadora Island resorts or hiking and immersing themselves in local culture on Saboga’s less-developed coasts. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities here, with the opportunity to witness them from July through October. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy windsurfing, paddleboarding, and snorkelling in the gorgeous waters.
Volcan Baru National Park
Volcan Baru National Park, Panama’s highest point, gives a rare opportunity to see both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans on clear days. This spectacular volcano, surrounded by five diverse ecosystems caused by ancient volcanic activity, is located in Chiriqui. The region is known for its high-quality geisha coffee, one of the world’s most expensive. Explorers can discover the park’s seven craters via a variety of hiking trails, ranging from difficult routes for experts to more accessible options for casual hikers.
