Panama is a country located in Central America, known for its natural beauty, rich culture and history, and its famous canal. The country offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors, from exploring the Panama Canal, to lounging on beautiful Caribbean beaches, and visiting the historic city of Casco Antiguo. Here are the top 10 things to do in Panama:
1. Visit the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is one of the most famous engineering marvels in the world and offers a unique opportunity to see the canal in operation. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Miraflores Locks and Visitor Center to learn about the history and operation of the canal.
2. Explore Casco Antiguo
Casco Antiguo is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the historic district of Panama City. Visitors can explore the city's well-preserved colonial architecture, visit the local markets and take a stroll through the historic streets.
3. Relax on the beaches of Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is a group of Caribbean islands located in the northwest of Panama, known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters. Visitors can spend their days lounging on the beach, snorkeling in the reef, or exploring the local restaurants and bars.
4. Visit the Soberanía National Park
The Soberanía National Park is a protected area located near Panama City, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and wildlife watching.
5. Visit the Biomuseo
The Biomuseo is a modern museum located in Panama City, designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The museum explores the country's natural history and biodiversity, featuring interactive exhibits and an outdoor botanical garden.
6. Explore the Emberá Village
The Emberá Village is a traditional indigenous village located on the banks of the Chagres River, where visitors can learn about the Emberá culture and their way of life, and participate in traditional activities such as canoeing and basket weaving.
7. Visit the Gatun Locks
The Gatun Locks are one of the three sets of locks that make up the Panama Canal, and offers an opportunity to see the canal in action, watch the ships pass through the locks and learn about the history of the canal.
8. Visit the Panama Viejo
The Panama Viejo is the ruins of the original Panama City, which was burned and destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. Visitors can explore the ruins, learn about the history of the city and see how it was rebuilt in a new location
9. Visit the Ancon Hill
Ancon Hill is a hill located in Panama City, from where you can get a panoramic view of the city, the canal and the surrounding area. It offers a great place for hiking and bird watching.
10. Visit the Miraflores Locks
The Miraflores Locks are one of the three sets of locks that make up the Panama Canal, and it's the most visited one by tourists. It offers a visitors center with interactive exhibits, an observation deck and a restaurant, where you can see the ships pass through the locks.