destino panama travel

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A land radiating with life, perfectly imperfect, and full of authenticity. Where Northern and Southern worlds connect, old and new worlds coexist, and cosmopolitan landscapes live in harmony with wild, untamed rainforests.

A country for those who seek beyond expectations, that dares you to see more. Taste more. Connect more. Feel more. A place for those who long more stimulation, connection and transformation. Panamá is not the destination, but the journey to discover more of what truly matters.

Make more lasting memories through an explosion of inspiration and purpose. And let the spirit of Panamá unlock a sense of belonging.

Panamá. Live for More.

Panamá's unique location provides the experience of a lifetime. We are gifted with having a wide range of rainforests, a desert, and breathtaking beaches on both coastlines, the Caribbean and the Pacific, all within driving distance of a cosmopolitan city. Ready to start exploring?

March to October

Best swell for surfing, june 3rd to 18th, corpus christi festival, june to november, best time for river rafting, march to august, tuna fishing season, birdwatching, hiking & waterfalls, visit indigenous communities, places to visit, panama city.

Panama City is much more than the country's capital. Here you can pedal in front of a skyline with some of the tallest skyscrapers in Latin America, enjoy the Pacific breeze as you ride along the Bay of Panama, walk among archaeological sites and trails, and see how colonial history and the night come alive in the same place. Panama City is a high-contrast destination where greenery, indigenous peoples and vibrant city life are waiting for you.

Bocas Del Toro

Bocas del Toro is one of the favorite destinations among Panamanians and visitors. Just a 45-minute flight from Panama City brings you to the north-westernmost province of the country. Immerse yourself in its cultures, cross forest-covered mountains, sail through mangroves, swim among reefs, surf the perfect wave and discover the good vibes of Bocas.

Boquete is a colorful, wooded valley surrounded by the mountains of Chiriquí, in northwestern Panamá. The valley of dreams? Maybe so. This is a recurring destination for those who dream of trails with waterfalls and exotic animals, climbing natural rock formations, tasting the best coffee and enjoying excellent seasonal meals. Discover this unique place where peace and adrenaline converge.

Tierras Altas

The Tierras Altas region is a quite different place from the rest of Panamá. It is a mountainous district located in the extreme west of the country, in the province of Chiriquí. Take in its peaks, forests, rivers, and set out on an adventure among agriculture and culinary activities it has in store for you. Can you fathom how it feels to see both oceans at the same time? Well, in Tierras Altas, you can!

Riviera Pacifica

The Riviera Pacifica extends along the Pan-American Highway, a 25 mile (40 km) stretch of road dotted with beaches and mountains. On your way out of Panama City, just 50 miles (80 km), on your left, you’ll see a number of beaches where you can enjoy the best plans in the Pacific. And on your right, mountainous areas await that are brimming with trails, waterfalls and adventures in a cooler climate. Which one sounds best to you?

Pedasí & Tonosí

The province of Los Santos, located in the south of Panamá, is the cradle of folklore. At the end, towards the Pacific, there are two unique points: Pedasi and Tonosi. Here you will enjoy natural beauties such as the migration of humpback whales from July to October. You can also visit Isla Iguana to dive over the oldest and largest coral reef in the Gulf of Panama and see many of the birds and iguanas that live there.

Pacific Coast of Veraguas

The province of Veraguas in central Panamá is an exciting destination full of epic adventures. Its Pacific coast is a true jewel where lovers of the sea and wildlife coexist to enjoy the beauties of the region.

In the province of Colón, facing the Caribbean Sea, you'll find Portobelo. Legend has it that Columbus named Portobelo as soon as he saw it. The color of its deep blue sea, the white of its beaches, along with the intense green of its forests and mangroves, deserve no other name: it is a beautiful port. Come and discover it for yourself!

The 13 best things to do in Panama

Dec 1, 2023 • 10 min read

Immerse yourself in Panama's national parks, beaches and cultural traditions © Cavan / Getty Images

With rugged trails and blazingly colorful neotropical life, Panama's national parks are some of the best in the world. Its highlands are steeped in rambling coffee fincas, thunderous rivers and waterfalls. Its coastline boasts kaleidoscopic coral reefs and epic swells that have drawn daring wave-seekers since the 1970s. 

And if all that sounds unbelievable, there are hundreds of Caribbean islands where you can sip a dram of rum and indulge in some hammock time.

Panama, the bridge between the Americas, is a powerhouse of possibility – the only challenge is choosing what to see when you get there. Here's our pick of the top things to do on your Panama vacation.

1. Stroll the winding streets of Casco Viejo

If the booming, high-rise Banking District is the economic engine of Panama's capital, the urbane quarter of Casco Viejo is its spiritual heart. 

Established in 1673 after the pirate Henry Morgan transformed the original settlement of Panama City (now Panama La Vieja) into an inglorious pile of rubble and ash, Casco Viejo , once a defensive outpost, has gone through enormous change.

After falling into ruin during the reign of dictator Manuel Noriega, this neighborhood is now one of Panama's most prestigious and popular locales.

Stroll through its warren of streets, where handsome plazas play host to fine mansions, buzzing terraced cafés, ritzy art galleries and a restaurant scene to satisfy the most ravenous gourmand. 

Don’t miss the historic sites – the district’s defensive walls have long been dismantled, but its wealth of 16th and 17th structures remain. Among them, the church of San José features a priceless, baroque gold altar that miraculously escaped Morgan’s sacking of Panama La Vieja.

2. Watch giant ships move through the Panama Canal 

The age of engineering reached its pinnacle with the Panama Canal , an 80km-long (50 miles) international shipping channel that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Caribbean Sea.

Unlike the Suez Canal , which is entirely at sea level, the Panama Canal utilizes a series of enormous, mechanized locks to raise and lower ships over the continental divide.  

The canal is an obligatory attraction for first-time visitors to Panama, and you have several options for getting close to the action. Just outside Panama City, Miraflores is the most popular of the canal’s locks, as it's reliable and easy to reach. 

Gatún sees fewer visitors on the Caribbean side but boasts a larger three-step lock system. However, to see the canal at its grandest, you should head to Agua Clara Locks, also on the Caribbean side.

Completed in 2016, the locks were designed to accommodate a new generation of behemoth container ships, known as "Neo-Panamax" ships, which have twice the capacity of previous vessels. 

3. Steep your weary bones in Caldera’s hot springs

If you intend to do any serious hiking in the Chiriquí highlands, it’s worth scheduling a recovery day at the hot springs of Caldera. With temperatures ranging from tepid to piping hot, several thermally heated pools of mineral-rich spring water supply a soothing remedy for aches, pains and general fatigue. 

Located 18km (11 miles) outside of Boquete, the springs are rustic and low-key. Amenities are basic, and you should arrive early to beat the crowds. During the dry season, you can dig your own pool out of the banks of the Río Chiriqui. Public transport to the springs is infrequent; consider a taxi or a tour instead.

4. Celebrate Afro-Panamanian culture in Portobelo

The impregnable fortress of Portobelo  once served as the Atlantic terminus of Spain’s transcontinental supply chains. It lies at the heart of the Costa Arriba – a remote Caribbean shoreline running east of Colón .

At the height of the Spanish colonial empire, bars of plundered Peruvian gold filled its customs house. Such extraordinary wealth invariably drew pirates like Henry Morgan and Admiral Edward Vernon.

Portobelo today is a small fishing town filled with rusty relics of a bygone era. Much of the town's soul comes from the Afro-Panamanians, descendants of Congolese people enslaved and trafficked by the Spanish. 

The town truly comes alive during a pair of festivals – the Festival del Cristo Negro and the Festival de Diablos y Congos. The Festival del Cristo Negro is held annually in October and honors a 1.5-m tall (5ft) Black Christ. The statue is paraded around town as pilgrims in crowns made of thorns and purple robes follow. 

The Diablos y Congos festival occurs every two years. The event evokes the twin themes of enslavement and emancipation through dances and devilish costumes. The tradition dates back to the trade of enslaved people when Black people escaped bondage and found a haven and, eventually, a community in the jungle. 

It's a wonderful, colorful celebration that draws people from around the region.

5. Unwind in El Valle

When the heat and frenzy of the capital become too much to bear, city residents retreat to the flower-festooned spa of El Valle . Located in the lush foothills of Coclé Province , El Valle is a mere 2.5 hours from the capital but a world away in style and atmosphere. 

Cool, quiet and refreshingly down-to-earth, El Valle boasts a plethora of diversions. If you want to relax, hot springs promise to restore and rejuvenate.

If you’re up for an adventure, several fine hikes lead through verdant, chattering forests, many of them punctuated by mysterious petroglyphs and thundering waterfalls. 

The jagged peaks of the India Dormida are the most challenging of all. Don’t miss El Valle’s famous artisan market , where you can shop for pottery, masks, baskets and other excellent handcrafted items. 

6. Ride epic waves at Santa Catalina

Back in the 1970s, only a handful of intrepid travelers knew about Santa Catalina . Today, the word is out: Santa Catalina boasts some of the most spectacular waves in Central America .

And as such, this remote fishing village on Panama’s Pacific coast sees a steady stream of sun-kissed adventurers, but not enough to disrupt its low-key ambiance.

Strictly for experienced surfers, the point break at La Punta generates powerful and consistent swells year-round, reaching colossal heights of up to 9m (30ft) from February to August. 

Beginners should steer clear of such monsters and practice their moves at the infinitely calmer Playa El Estero, one of the best training grounds in the country.

Naturally, there are many other excellent breaks in Panama’s central provinces, mostly in the Azuero Peninsula .

7. Enjoy the sunrise on Panama’s highest peak

Rising from the Talamanca mountains in western Panama, Volcán Barú is the only place in the world where you can see both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans at the same time – but only if you’re very lucky. At 3,474m (11,398ft), Barú’s windswept summit is subject to highly changeable and occasionally inclement weather conditions. 

Dawn is your best chance to catch clear skies and fiery hues. As such, you should set out at midnight from the nearby town of Boquete  or plan to camp under the stars.

You're still guaranteed a decent hike through several vegetation zones, even if the weather gods don't smile on you. Cloaked in forest and farmland, the extinct volcano is home to seven craters and 10 rivers, many endemic mammals and abundant birdlife. 

Of course, there’s no shortage of meandering countryside in the shadow of Barú. Endless hiking trails crisscross the rugged hills of Chiriquí Province , taking in enchanted waterfalls, aromatic fincas, Indigenous communities and cloud forests. After conquering Barú, take the time to ramble on. 

8. Sip Panamanian coffee on an estate in Chiriquí

All coffee lovers know that the finest beans can deliver a full-blown mystical experience. Forget communion wine, a cup of the black stuff is your ticket to heaven. In Chiriquí , coffee production has been the mainstay of the local economy since the 19th century. 

Dozens of mist-drenched estates pepper the fertile hills under Volcán Barú. Established in 1922, Finca Lérida is one of the country’s oldest growers, and its extensive property includes hiking trails and secondary forests jumping with birdlife.

In Boquete, Café Ruiz is one of the largest and most famous exporters, founded in 1979.

9. Swim with fish off Coiba Island  

Shimmering shoals of multi-colored fish swirl through the ocean waters off Coiba Island – a global hub for marine life; located 20km (12 miles) from Panama’s Pacific mainland, Coiba is the largest of Panama’s many phenomenal isles.

Teeming with life, the ocean here is an underwater wonderland that will leave you mesmerized. In addition to substantial reef colonies, Coiba hosts many large pelagic animals including multiple species of turtles, whales, sharks and dolphins.

Visiting Coiba is one of the most adventurous things to do in Panama, but if you can’t make it out, several decent dive sites in Bocas del Toro Province are well-served by local infrastructure. The remote Indigenous enclave Guna Yala shelters some exceptional reefs, too, but the local authorities only permit snorkeling.

10. Go whitewater rafting in the Chiriquí highlands

Beyond its rambling knolls and sleepy hamlets, the bucolic province of Chiriquí has some seriously steep and torturous peaks. As such, it is one of the best destinations in Central America for whitewater rafting. 

For the uninitiated, the experience involves hurtling over torrid eddies while paddling for your life, hopefully avoiding any obstacles of rocks and deadly vortices. Wild stretches are punctuated by moments of calm and drift, and there’s just enough time to catch your breath before the next onslaught begins.

If this sounds like good wholesome fun, trips can be staged in the town of Boquete. Families and cautious types may prefer the tamer Class II-III rapids on Majagua and Gariche Rivers. 

Pluckier souls and unrepentant adrenaline freaks should head to the Chiriquí Viejo, a true beast with more than 60km (37 miles) of class IV rapids and some horrifying class V sections, too. Naturally, all the rivers are noticeably wilder in the wet season.

11. Encounter rare, resplendent quetzals in Cerro Punta

Adorned with iridescent emerald plumage and trailing tail feathers, the aptly named resplendent quetzal ( Pharomachrus mocinno ) has long featured in the myths of Mesoamerica. 

Quetzals are increasingly rare, but with luck and perseverance, you might just spot one in the high-altitude cloud forests around Cerro Punta, deep in the tierras frías (cold lands) of the Talamancas. 

Covered in strawberry plantations, Cerro Punta is a major gateway to La Amistad International Park , one of Central America's largest and wildest protected areas.

Of course, birders are spoiled for choice in Panama, and some of the most prolific habitats are the lowland rainforests around the Panama Canal. You won’t see any quetzals there, but the 17km (10.5-mile) Pipeline Trail in Soberanía National Park is a truly world-class site. In 1985, birders clocked an astonishing 385 species in just 24 hours. 

12. Find serenity in the Comarca de Guna Yala

More than 400 islands and islets make up the homeland of the Indigenous Guna (formerly the Kuna), most of them blissfully uninhabited. The region is largely devoid of modern infrastructure and self-governed as a semi-autonomous territory in Panama’s remote eastern Caribbean. 

Most of its scattered isles offer little more than a white sand beach and a solitary stand of palm trees. The Comarca de Guna Yala is the place to disconnect from the outside world and rediscover your innate tranquility.

Guna society is matriarchal and staunchly conservative. Fishing, coconut cultivation and, to a lesser extent, tourism are the main economic activities in the region. Unless you have a yacht, independent travel here is tricky. 

Guna families typically host visitors and provide food, accommodation and day trips. Your options include relaxing on remote beaches or exploring pristine coral reefs. Don’t forget to stock up on  molas – colorful embroidered panels that form part of traditional Guna attire.

13. Spot neon frogs in Bocas del Toro

The far-flung Caribbean islands of the Bocas del Toro archipelago are a bastion of biodiversity. Encounters with clambering three-toed sloths, croaking toucans and roaring howler monkeys are common. However, the poison dart frogs that inhabit the islands’ rainforests are unique in so many ways. 

Not much bigger than a human thumbnail, the frogs are iridescent with lustrous red, blue, orange and green shades, reflecting their innate toxicity. Some islands feature a single morph. Others are home to several species.

And each morph, according to biologists, is destined to evolve into its own unique species. Poison dart frogs are easy to find in the undergrowth, but don’t handle them.

This article was first published Aug 23, 2022 and updated Dec 1, 2023.

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How To Plan An Unforgettable Panama Itinerary

Looking for an incredible Panama itinerary?

I’ve got you covered below.

Every summer, my boyfriend Andy and I plan an epic two-week vacation together. It’s one of the few times annually I’m not traveling solo; and because it’s such a special time, a lot goes into planning the perfect trip.

We’re curious outdoor enthusiasts who love experiential accommodations.

If that sounds like you, then you’ll want to keep reading to steal our favorite Panama vacation spots and travel tips.

Note that this post contains affiliate links to trusted partners I think you’ll love!

Psst! Don’t forget to pin this post for later!

Table of Contents

Panama Travel Video

Prefer to travel Panama through video?

You’re in luck!

We filmed a Panama travel guide to really show you what the experience was like.

Watch the video here:

A big thanks to Andy for helping me shoot the footage, and for editing this video!

Panama Travel Tips

Before I get into actual things to do in Panama, I want to go over some important Panama travel tips.

This way, when you begin diving into our Panama itinerary, you can better understand what your trip will look like.

Additionally, you can grab my free Ultimate Travel Planning Kit — which also includes a downloadable Google Map of this Panama itinerary.

Is Panama Safe?

In short, I felt very, very safe doing the Panama itinerary I share with you below.

That being said, whether at home or on the road, I’m never without a few very important safety essentials.

Vigilant Personal Alarm . Vigilant makes personal safety alarms — or sound grenades — in a variety of models and styles. Press a button to activate an alarm louder than a firetruck, meant to disarm and scare potential attackers. The model linked here even has a backup alarm in case the primary alarm becomes disabled.

Speakeasy Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . Hand-made by my fellow travel blogging friends over at Beers & Beans, these stylish scarves come in designs for all seasons. Bonus: The hidden pockets in the scarf are large enough to fit your passport!

Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments . Nervous about pickpockets? In more touristy areas of Panama City, for example, pickpockets are fairly common. Having pickpocket-proof garments ensures thieves don’t even know you’re carrying cash. I love the underwear, tank top, long johns and short sleeve dress!

Planning A Trip To Panama: Destinations

There are so many options when planning your Panama itinerary.

Below, I provide an overview of some — emphasis on some — of your options based on your travel preferences.

Beach Destinations In Panama.  Bocas del Toro, Pearl Islands, San Blas Islands, Isla Coiba, Santa Catalina, Colon.

Hiking / Outdoor Adventure Destinations In Panama.  Boquete, El Valle de Anton, Cocle Province, Santa Cruz de Cana.

Urban Destinations In Panama. Panama City, David.

Agricultural Destinations In Panama. Boquete, Santa Fe, Cocle Province, Isla Bastimentos, Isla San Cristobal, Colon.

Two Weeks In Panama Itinerary

If you don’t feel like reading this entire article, you can swipe my two weeks in Panama itinerary here in this quick overview.

We arrived into Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, and then took an Uber to get to the Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport to board a domestic one-hour flight to the Bocas del Toro “Isla Colón” International Airport in Bocas Town.

Our Panama itinerary was as follows:

Bocas Town on Isla Colon in Bocas del Toro  ( Airbnb- Stay Bocas ). One night.

Arrived via Air Panama flight from Panama City.

Highlights included Bibi’s on the Beach, Starfish Beach and simply wandering the lively town to peruse the shops, bars and even a brewery called Bocas Brewery.

Isla Bastimentos in Bocas Del Toro ( La Loma Jungle Lodge & Chocolate Farm ). Two nights.

Arrived via pickup in Bocas Town by the La Loma Jungle Lodge boat captain (ride is about 20 minutes).

Highlights included sleeping in a treehouse with no walls in the jungle, hiking to a bat cave, kayaking at sunrise and the creative meals made with mainly ingredients grown on their onsite farm.

Isla San Cristobal in Bocas del Toro ( CocoVivo ). Two nights.

Arrived via skiff boat taxi (about 25 minutes from Bocas Town).

Highlights included onsite hiking trails to waterfalls, snorkeling the healthy coral reefs, night swimming in the bioluminescent Tierra Oscura Lagoon, a dock with a second-storey diving board and hammocks right over the water, and paddle-boarding to the local fried chicken shop nearby (a very Panamanian experience!).

Boquete (Airbnb- Lost Waterfalls Cabin ). Two nights.

Arrived via Hello Panama tourist bus ($30), with the Airbnb host picking us up at the bus stop to take us to the cabin.

Highlights included hiking in Panama  — specifically through high altitude jungle to numerous waterfalls — a farm-to-fork dinner at Colibri Restaurant in Boquete Town and having a secluded cabin in the breathtaking cloud forest where our yard was filled with unique flora and hummingbirds.

Panama City ( The Bahia Grand Hotel ). One night.

Arrived via Air Panama flight from Enrique Malek International Airport in David, which we got to by paying $50 for a taxi from Boquete to David (though note there is also a cheaper bus option that we didn’t feel like navigating with our luggage).

This was just a one-night stopover before our trip to El Valle de Anton (aka “El Valle”), and we spent it by exploring some of the hotel’s amenities. These included swimming in the infinity pool, having an unforgettable chef’s tasting dinner at Tejas Restaurant, gambling in the Ocean Sun Casino and having drinks at their 66-storey Poolbar rooftop. Afterward, we took a bubblebath with wine in our in-room standalone tub. Heaven!

El Valle de Anton (Airbnb- Casa del Alma ). Two nights.

Arrived via 2.5-hour bus from the Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City (~$4.50 one way).

Highlights included hiking to the top of La India Dormida for incredible views, having a seafood dinner on the chill patio of Bruschetta Restaurant, and enjoying our funky zen lodging with had a pool, garden and deep soaking tub.

Panama City ( The Bahia Grand Hotel ). Three nights.

Arrived via the same bus we took to El Valle de Anton, but in the opposite direction.

Highlights included more swimming and enjoying cocktail-filled pineapples at the infinity pool, wandering the UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo neighborhood, seeing boats pass through the Panama Canal, walking the scenic Cinta Costera at night, savoring craft cocktails at the Strangers Club and a satisfying dinner at the innovative Wall Street Bar & Lounge where menu prices change based on their inventory.

If I could change anything about the above Panama itinerary, I would have stayed a few days longer in Panama to spend more time in Panama City. There is a lot to do there, both within the city and as day trips.

Currency In Panama

Interestingly, US Dollars — along with the Panamanian Balboa — are both official currency in Panama.

They even equal the same. Sometimes locals will mix up currencies, too.

So, if you’re supposed to get $1.50 change back, you might back $1 USD and 50 cents in Panamanian Balboa coins.

In short, we used US dollars the entire time.

Getting Around Panama

To get around Panama, Andy and I opted to travel by plane and bus.

There’s so much to do in Panama, and we were on a tight two-week schedule; so, we did take two domestic flights on Air Panama to save time, even though they were pricier than the bus.

Additionally, we opted for the tourist transfer bus offered by Hello Panama between Bocas and Boquete.

Another option we heard a few travelers rave about is renting a car, as long as you’re outside Panama City and Bocas del Toro.

Next time I go to Panama I’ll probably opt for this, as there are so many natural places and beautiful parks to explore that are time-consuming to get to via public transportation.

I recommend using a service  like Discover Cars  to determine the best car rental deals available.

Users of this site can save up to 70% on their booking just by being able to easily compare their options!

What’s great is their comparison tool does the hard research work for you.

You can use their widget right here to compare right now:

Solo Female Travel In Panama

While I was not traveling solo in Panama per my usual trip style, I know many of you are solo travelers.

Ladies, you can definitely feel confident traveling alone through Panama. We encountered a number of solo female travelers during our trip, and at almost all of our accommodations.

Actually, while the Panama itinerary I’m sharing works well for couples, there’s nothing we did on this trip that I wouldn’t come back and do solo, aside for maybe staying at the Lost Waterfalls Cabin because it’s pretty secluded (and I’m terrified of ghosts!).

Even the hikes in Boquete that I mention below — both of which are very well marked — would be fine to do on your own without a guide.

Just make sure you have the Vigilant Alarm I mention above on you for added protection, especially from wildlife.

Health Concerns & Zika Virus In Panama

Note that as of this writing (September 2018) there is a risk of Zika Virus in Panama. This means that if you’re pregnant you should avoid visiting Panama.

All travelers will definitely want to take precautions to limit mosquito bites, as well as bites from no-see-ums (or sand flies), which can also carry diseases.

In Bocas del Toro both of these insects were very prevalent.

Personally, I typically opt for natural insect repellent, as I feel it works better and doesn’t harm the environment.

I was able to buy an incredible insect repellent and bite soother at La Loma Jungle Lodge. It was made from coconut oil, citronella and fresh lemon.

If you’d prefer to buy your insect repellent before your Panama trip, here are a few highly-rated natural options from Amazon:

• 2 ounce repellent (spray)
• 2 ounce repellent (cream)
• 4 ounce repellent
• 8 ounce repellent

Another question in terms of health safety you’re probably asking yourself:

Can you drink the water in Panama?

The answer:

Yes and no.

Do realize in certain Panama regions and cities you can’t drink the tap water, like Bocas del Toro.

On the other hand, drinking the tap water in places like Boquete, El Valle de Anton and Panama City is absolutely fine.

Honestly, I thought the tap water in Panama — especially in mountainous places like Boquete — was some of the best I’ve ever tasted!

And while we’re on the topic of drinking, do remember to ask for your beverages without a straw when ordering at restaurants.

Many restaurants and bars will typically provide straws automatically, which can then get eaten by wildlife and harm or kill them.

My Panama Itinerary In-Depth

Now that we’ve covered some important Panama travel tips, it’s time to dive deeper into where to go in Panama, and what to do once you’re there.

Visiting Bocas Del Toro 

Christopher Columbus actually visited this beautiful archipelago in 1502, when he was searching for Asia. That’s why you’ll find a number of Bocas del Toro islands that give nods to the Spanish explorer — like Isla Colon, Isla Cristóbal and Bahía de Almirante — because he named them after himself.

According to Rough Guides , it wasn’t until 1826 that the town of Bocas del Toro — today called Bocas Town — was founded by West Indian immigrants.

Later on in the 19th century, it was the United Fruit company that built up Bocas del Toro’s wealth by planting banana plantations.

This strategic move led to over 50% of Panama’s export income coming from Bocas bananas.

While disease eventually hurt the banana industry in Bocas del Toro, a growing tourism industry is taking its place as a key money maker.

How To Get To Bocas Del Toro From Panama City

Arriving into Bocas del Toro via Air Panama flight was one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had on a plane.

With the soft hum of the aircraft as my soundtrack, I gazed down over hundreds of lush islands — some large enough to have homes, some so small they appeared like rocks from above.

As the plane descended, I noticed the water hitting the shoreline of the vibrant emerald green islands, sprouting dense forest that appeared like billions of broccoli stalks, the trees so close together.

Suddenly, the plane made a loud whizzing noise, and a burst of colorful buildings broke up the repeating green hues.

We were in Bocas Town.

Now, flights to Bocas del Toro from Panama City are relatively inexpensive on Air Panama. Andy and I paid $112 each for our one-way flight — including taxes and fees — booked for the end of August.

If you’re wondering how to get to Bocas del Toro, the above-mentioned flight to Bocas del Toro airport will be the easiest, quickest way at less than one-hour of travel time.

Another option is taking a bus from Panama City to Almirante, and then a boat to Bocas Town (or another Bocas del Toro island), though note this takes 10.5-11.5 hours total. Considering the flight is about 50 minutes, I personally think it’s the smarter option unless you’re on a really, really tight budget.

Driving is another option, and we met loads of travelers road tripping around Panama.

The thing with this is that once you’re in Bocas del Toro you’ll be getting around by taking tiny skiff boats. These don’t fit cars, so you’ll need to leave yours in Almirante. Driving from Panama City to Bocas del Toro takes about eight to nine hours.

Now Bocas del Toro is interesting in that it sits on Panama’s Caribbean coast and features some truly unspoiled beaches.

Moreover, you can swim in crystal waters, snorkeling lagoons and watching dolphins in the wild. You can float in a bioluminescent bay. You can hike through the jungle spying birdlife, monkeys and sloths, or head into a bat cave and go cliff jumping inside.

These are just a few of the many Bocas del Toro attractions and experiences to be had.

Bocas del Toro islands are plentiful. In fact, aside for the mainland there are nine main Caribbean islands to choose from when planning your trip.

That being said, you’ll notice as your flying over this Panama province that there are actually myriad small islands, calm waters sprinkled with lush emerald tufts of land. While you won’t find Bocas del Toro hotels on these smaller islands, many make for fun kayaking and paddle boarding destinations.

Visiting Bocas Town On Isla Colon [Bocas Del Toro, Panama]

Bocas Town — situated at the southern end of Isla Colon — is the capital and main hub of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, so this is where you’ll likely begin your journey, even if just to connect elsewhere.

That being said, no  Bocas del Toro vacation would be complete without spending a night or two in Bocas Town.  It’s extremely lively, with loads of restaurants, bars, shops, a main square and a walkable layout.

Bocas Town Hotel Recommendation: Stay Bocas

When researching where to stay in Bocas del Toro, specifically in Bocas Town, we chose Stay Bocas due to its positive reviews.

Plus, it’s literally a three-minute walk from the Bocas del Toro “Isla Colón” International Airport. This is where you’ll arrive into when flying into Bocas del Toro from Panama City.

As soon as we walked through the garden patio up to the check-in desk, a smiling man greeted us and offered us local Balboa beers.

The room was clean with air conditioning, and the location was walkable to all of the noteworthy things to do in Bocas Town.

It’s also budget-friendly at less than $50 per night, including breakfast, wifi and bike rentals.

We booked this Bocas Town accommodation on Airbnb. If you’ve never used Airbnb before, I recommending clicking here to set up your account so you get $40 off your first booking .

Once you’ve created your account, you can click here to book Stay Bocas.

Bocas Del Toro Restaurants: Bibi’s On The Beach

Bocas Town is the epitome of a chill beach town. Even as we walked around on a Monday night, small wooden bars and restaurants painted in bright tropical colors blasted calypso and reggae.

Near to a small brewery strung with fairy lights was a dock where locals eagerly wait to take people by taxi boat to other islands and destinations nearby.

Our destination for the night:

Bibi’s on the Beach , a restaurant recommendation from Stay Bocas.

Located on nearby Carenero Island, Andy and I were dropped off on the dock — after paying the $2/person fare — and took a short walk along the palm shaded, sandy shore to the open-air eatery.

Fresh seafood paired with fruity cocktails made fresh in a blender is the name of the game here.

On the water, we sipped Pina Coladas and Bahama Mamas while enjoying grilled tuna, mussels, shrimp and Bibi’s famous tender octopus.

The scene is uber romantic, with bare bulbed lights strung up over picnic tables and lounge chairs right on the water.

I highly recommend going before sunset so you can watch the sky light up and cast warm hues over the islands.

Bocas Del Toro Beaches: Starfish Beach

Possibly my favorite Bocas del Toro beach from the whole trip was Starfish Beach near Bocas Town.

On the main road in Bocas Town — the widest road, two blocks from Stay Bocas — is a park square.

Here, you’ll catch the bus to Bocas del Drago ($2.50 each way, payable on the bus in cash), the last stop on the bus.

The ride takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll drive through lush jungle and even some cow-laden countryside.

When you arrive at Bocas del Drago, you’ll be greeted by soft sand coastline shaded by palms, azure warm waters and chill beach bars selling rum drinks and lobster.

The real treat though:

Hiking 25 minutes along the coastline —walking barefoot through the warm water — to the gorgeous Starfish Beach.

Not only is the beach stunning, with hawks gliding overhead, but the clear water is filled with giant colorful starfish!

A note on responsible tourism at beaches:

Don’t touch the starfish!

There are signs everywhere warning visitors not to touch them, and that if you do they might die; but yet, we saw tourists not only touching them but moving them to take a “great” Instagram photo.

A photo is never worth hurting a living creature over, so just admire them with your eyes!

A warning on the buses:

They apparently come earlier than they tell you when you get off. The 2pm bus back to Bocas left at 1:55pm! Luckily we got back early.

Back in Bocas Town, we took a stroll through the lively, colorful streets, spending most of our time shopping at the artsy  Black Cat boutique.

Afterward, we headed to a really cool bar and restaurant —  Bocas Blended , aka the Batido Bus — to eat lunch.

This hippie bus serves smoothies, healthy wraps, salads and refreshing mojito lemonades.

It was the perfect place to relax while we waited to meet our captain — Mr. Kelly — who’d be whisking us away to our next Bocas del Toro island destination.

Visiting La Loma Jungle Lodge On Isla Bastimentos [Bocas Del Toro, Panama]

When Mr. Kelly arrived, we boarded a small skiff boat to visit La Loma Jungle Lodge & Chocolate Farm on Bastimentos Island.

The scenic ride took about 20 minutes — taking us past inlet eateries, small islands and mangroves — until we pulled up to dock dense with forest; a small dog, who we came to know as Zorro, greeting us.

Resting on 57 acres of tropical forest and fruit groves, La Loma Jungle Lodge is unlike any of the other Bocas del Toro hotels you’ll come across on your search.

First of all, the property is a self-sustaining experiential accommodation only accessible by boat, meaning you don’t need to worry about having a negative impact on the environment or about encountering too many tourists.

As a guest of the hotel — which is also a working farm — your stay includes three deliciously prepared meals.

About 60% of the ingredients in the food are grown right on their property. During my stay, I savored dishes like pumpkin soup with fried yuca, grilled blackjack fish over coconut rice, and roasted red pepper-laced lentils served alongside fresh salad from the garden and locally-sourced cheese.

For dessert, sometimes we savored homemade guava cookies showcasing onsite grown fruit, or decadent chocolate cake gowned in dulce de leche, made with La Loma’s renowned cacao.

Hey, Panama chocolate is some of the best in the world. And if you want to have the best of the best, it’s smart to get it right from the source.

You can work off the food through onsite hiking trails, night walks to spot caimans and jungle insects, trips to trek across Red Frog Beach and kayaking to the nearby bat cave or Sloth Island (which is home to — you guessed it — hundreds of sloths!).

While mornings were filled with watching wildlife — mainly birds and sometimes sloths and monkeys — through our open air treehouse, evenings were spent playing cards under the stars while enjoying a bottle of wine and listening to tree frogs.

Moreover, staff were happy to set up their kayaks for sunrise paddling with views looking out toward the active Volcán Barú — Panama’s tallest mountain at 11,400 feet — and the rest of the Cordillera de Talamanca range.

Adventures On Isla Bastimentos: Beach Hiking

No trip to Panama would be complete without visiting the beautiful beaches.

And one of my favorite experiences during my La Loma stay was to Red Frog Beach , specifically to do the 45-minute hike from that beach to the more secluded Polo Beach .

Admittedly, Polo Beach is a proper hike to get to.

While your feet will be slapping over the warm Caribbean Sea most of the time, you’ll also need to navigate jagged tufts of coral and humongous fall trees blocking the path.

Once you arrive, though, you’ll realize the effort was worth it as you have the crystal waters and outer island views all to yourself.

There aren’t beach bars at Polo Beach, so pack lots of water and lunch!

Adventures On Isla Bastimentos: Panama Bat Cave Exploration

Another one of the unforgettable things to do in Panama while staying at La Loma:

Hiking through the  Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park to the  Nivida Bat Cave with a local named Roger, whose father actually discovered the cave.

I always joke that when I’m working hard I’m in my bat cave; but the truth is I’ve never been in a bat cave like this.

Hundreds — possibly thousands — of bats hung upside down, grinning devilishly through the glow of our headlamps in the darkest corners of the cave.

Every few seconds, one would whizz past our ears so quickly they looked like a burst of black light; so close you could almost feel it’s little hairs on your skin!

I was glad I wore a bathing suit, as the further we hiked into the cave, the deeper the water inside became.

Actually, what started out as a stream quickly came to above our waists!

When we got to a large dry rock shelf the water didn’t reach, Roger instructed us to leave everything behind aside for our helmets and headlamps.

“The water gets very deep. You’ll need to swim at parts.”

Peering at a giant tarantula-like spider on the wall, I hoped the creepy crawlers of the cave wouldn’t also be making the journey.

After about 15 minutes, we came to a giant cave pool sitting below loads of stalagmites — where you could also cliff jump.

Andy jumped three times, and each time I held my breath hoping I wouldn’t need to tell his parents I’d lost their son in a Panamanian bat cave.

Luckily, he came up laughing each time.

The bat cave excursion also included a scenic boat ride through the mangroves. Roger not only gave us a comprehensive overview of the three types of mangroves on Bastimentos Island — red, brown and yellow — but also helped us spot an array of wildlife.

Crabs, capuchin monkeys, caimans and giant clawed pistol shrimp all made their way onto my camera roll, though the highlight was a sloth so close we could make out her facial features.

I learned sloths go to the bathroom once per week in the water, where the caimans sit hungrily waiting.

As this sloth moved about the tree, I hoped she realized what waited below her.

Luckily, what waited for Andy and I was much less scary:

A delicious multi-course lunch at La Loma, complete with plates of guanabana fruit and chocolate truffles for dessert.

Visiting CocoVivo On Isla San Cristobal [Bocas del Toro, Panama]

After washing down our meal with homemade passionfruit juice, Andy and I said our farewells, faithful Zorro giving us his final doggy kisses on the dock, before we headed back to Bocas Town to catch a taxi boat to CocoVivo Panama , a sustainable eco-retreat on Isla San Cristobal.

A friendly Bocas local named Choy was our captain, recommended to us by CocoVivo.

The scenic 20-minute ride cost $45 total for both Andy and I, and as our boat pulled up to the CocoVivo dock, surrounded by lush jungle, we knew we were in for a relaxing treat.

This portion of our trip was about simply enjoying the beauty and chilled out vibe of the property.

Actually, my laptop had sadly fallen prey to humidity on Isla Bastimentos. While I was more than a little sad about the screen of my $1500 laptop being destroyed, I decided to look at it as a blessing:

No laptop meant I had no choice but to take a deep breath and relax.

And CocoVivo certainly was the place to it.

Owned by expat couple Carmen and Lazare — who met while living in Bocas Town — the property is rustic and environmentally conscious using solar panels, a rain catchment system and composting.

You’ll need to be mindful of water usage, electricity usage and waste.

Moreover, our in-room toilet — for #1 only — was a hole right over the mangroves, and short cool showers handled only bio-digradeable products like this shampoo (though they provide soap, and have a beautiful Hill House with western facilities, too).

If you’re okay with that, then you’ll be rewarded with simple clean rooms built right into the island’s landscape.

Things To Do On Isla San Cristobal: Aquatic Bocas Del Toro Adventures

Actually, swimming in their bioluminescent Tierra Oscura Lagoon when the sky is completely dark is a magical experience; each slap of your hand on the water making bright sparkles shoot out from your fingertips.

Swimming during the day is also a must, as the property is surrounded by healthy reefs full of tropical fish and colorful corals.

A must-have CocoVivo experience:

Jumping off the second-storey diving board that’s on their main deck lounge, where fresh communal meals are served and the bar sits.

Here, you’ll find hammocks and wooden swings hanging right over the water, with a second-storey diving platform.

It’s scary the first time you jump, though after you come up for air giggling, you’ll want to do it again and again.

Things To Do On Isla San Cristobal: Bocas Del Toro Restaurants

Additionally, we loved grabbing the free-to-use kayaks and paddle boards and paddling across the lagoon to Los Amigos Restaurante & Bar .

Here, in this eatery on the water that genuinely feels like someone’s home, they serve one thing:

Three pieces of delicious fried chicken with fries and coleslaw.

It’s a true Panamanian experience, from getting to practice your Spanish to chatting with the owner — Ernesto — about his time living in the states, but coming back to where he was born and opening the business.

Behind the counter sits a shelf with a few bottles of liquor and a handful of mixers, which we turned into ginger ales spiked with local rum.

Around the open air restaurant, locals play music and sit on their porches, offering a glimpse into daily life in Panama.

Things To Do On Isla San Cristobal: Hiking On Isla San Cristobal

Additionally, the onsite hiking trails at CocoVivo allow you to see birds, wildlife (read: sloths!), waterfalls and crazy insects.

Led by CocoVivo’s three pups — Captain, Osa and Nanoosh — we ended up at a lovely waterfall.

This was a refreshing stop to cool off as Bocas del Toro weather can be very hot and humid.

After my laid back stay, I truly felt like I was leaving home, especially when Carmen, Lazare and the dogs stood at the dock waving (and barking!) goodbye.

Click here for a great list of unforgettable Bocas del Toro tours!

Visiting Boquete In Panama

So, where were we leaving Bocas del Toro for?

Boquete, a small mountain town located in the highlands of the bountiful Chiriquí province of Panama, renowned for its hiking trails and proximity to Volcán Barú , Panama’s highest point.

This is one of the best Panama vacation spots for those wanting to experience the country’s gorgeous cloud forest.

According to  Hotel Panamonte , Boquete was founded on April 11, 1911, when it became a shortcut to California for those looking to profit from the California Gold Rush.

Many locals and immigrants settled here, also drawn by the Panama destination’s abundance and natural beauty.

Today, the town is known for a few things:

• Boquete coffee production. The coffee in Boquete is said to be some of the world’s best!
• It’s retirement community. Many senior locals and expats settle in Boquete to take advantage of the mild weather, low costs, modern amenities and slower pace of life.
• Boquete tourism. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Boquete should be on your Panama itinerary!

Hotels In Boquete, Panama: The Lost Waterfalls Cabin

Andy and I booked the Lost Waterfalls Cabin on Airbnb, so if you’ve never used Airbnb before make sure to use this link to signup and get $40 off your first stay !

If you’re interested in hiking in Panama, the cabin is situated at the beginning of the renowned Lost Waterfalls Trail, high up in the cloud forest.

So high in fact that you’ll need to hike 20 minutes up a steep trail to reach the dwelling — meaning you’ll definitely need to be physically fit, and be okay with walking across shaking suspension bridges — to stay here.

Once you reach your cozy wooden cabin, you’re surrounded by hummingbirds, blue vervain, red spiky heliconias, tall moss-covered oaks and other high elevation flora.

Or, as I like to call them, Dr. Seuss-looking plants.

Plus, you won’t need to look up to see clouds; they’ll roll right past you like puffy tumbleweeds as you sit on the large porch — complete with rocking chairs and resident pup named Rocky Balboa.

Even the outdoor toilet and shower — both very clean — have views of the valley.

We loved our stay at this Boquete accommodation, especially because we spent almost our entire time hiking.

If you want to explore the actual main town in Boquete — with its many restaurants, bars and shops — you should stay at a hostel or hotel down there. For example:

• A popular choice is Hostel Mamallena , which has budget-friendly dorms and private rooms.
• Another great option if you’re not a hostel person is Agaseke Lodge Boquete , a simple and inexpensive Panama hotel right in Boquete Town that includes breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a clean room.

Another idea:

Do a few days in Boquete Town and a few days in the Panamanian cloud forest at the Lost Waterfalls Cabin.

You can always get to town via 15-minute hike down to the trailhead and then get a $10 cab, which the Airbnb host can call for you since you won’t have cell service.

If it’s the evening, make sure to bring a flashlight to see and your Vigilant Personal Alarm for safety, as it gets dark.

Most likely, you’ll eat most meals at the cabin, where you have a cooler (no fridge), outdoor grill, stove (no oven), sink and dishes / glassware.

Things To Do In Boquete, Chiriquí: Boquete Restaurants

One meal I do highly recommend you have in town:

A globally inspired farm-to-fork experience at Colibri Restaurante .

“Colibri” means “hummingbird” in Spanish, which is a great name for this restaurant focused on creative Mediterranean meals infused with mainly local ingredients.

They have outdoor seating, as well as indoor tables surrounded by walls covered in local artwork.

The menu is extensive with lots of noteworthy tastes, from the locally-made passionfruit limoncello to the home-brewed beer to the creative ice cream flavors.

Personally, I loved the tree tomato option, as well as the goat cheese made with a variety they find at a local farmer’s market.

Instead of bread, we were given a bowl of fried pasta with a pesto dipping sauce.

As a starter, the beef tenderloin salad was almost too pretty to eat, laced with carrot spirals, faddish slices and tender seasoned beef; all dressed in a passionfruit dressing.

The meal offered a delicious introduction to discovering the terroir of Boquete and the Chiriqui Province, as the reason many travelers visit is access to unique outdoor adventure opportunities.

Things To Do In Boquete, Chiriquí: Boquete Hiking Trails

Andy and I decided to continue exploring the landscape through two esteemed hiking trails:

The Pipeline Trail ($3 entrance fee) and the Lost Waterfalls Trails ($7 entrance fee), the latter of which our cabin sits at the trailhead of.

Both are moderately difficult, unbelievably scenic hikes that introduce you to lush jungle and renowned bird life. Moreover, they’re a short taxi or collectivo (shared taxi) ride from Boquete Town.

Additionally, both are well-traversed enough that I’d highly recommend them for solo female travelers — though do pack your personal alarm just in case. We didn’t see any, but there are jaguars here, and a sound grenade can help scare off wild animals.

The Pipeline Trail is 2.8-miles long, gradually bringing you to 1,578 meters above sea level. Despite the elevation gain, this is the easier of the two Boquete hikes. This is because the Lost Waterfalls Trail is very, very steep in sections.

During the hike, you’ll pass through two micro-climates of the cloud forest, seeing a wide variety of flora — and fauna, mainly birds.

Actually, along this trail sits a designated Quetzal habitat.

If you’re wondering where to see the sought-after Resplendent quetzal in Panama, this is where you need to go — though note having a local Boquete guide like this one will dramatically increase your chances of spotting one. These beautiful birds, despite their bright colors and dramatic feathering, are tough to spot on your own.

Another Pipeline Trail highlight:

A 1,000+ year-old Mexican elm tree, with enormous roots twisting out of the ground.

This is a fun photo spot for sure!

Along the way, you’ll cross lovely bridges — many crafted from parts of the pipeline the trek is named for — and will likely see lizards, butterflies and possibly even snakes, sloths and howler monkeys. We didn’t see the latter, but we definitely heard them!

At the end of the hike, you’re rewarded with a front row view of a waterfall perfect for swimming.

As Andy and I visited in the late August rainy season — Panama’s off season — we had the place all to ourselves.

The Lost Waterfalls Trail in Boquete was, in my opinion, even more beautiful, albeit more challenging with hugely spaced staircases and steep climbs — sometimes so sharp you’ll need a rope to assist you.

That being said, you’re introduced to three wildly gorgeous waterfalls, each quite different from the other.

Here is Lost Waterfall #1, the tamest of them all, with a viewing platform to see the falls:

Here is Lost Waterfall #2, my favorite of the three due to the multiple tiers and the cave behind it:

And here is Lost Waterfall #3, which you can also climb up and walk behind:

As a photographer on this Panama hike, I couldn’t help but notice the many opportunities for gorgeous natural framing.

Bring a raincoat! That rain can come out of nowhere. I’m a fan of the compact LINENLUX Rain Poncho .

Boquete gets much cooler than Panama City and Bocas del Toro, so bring some warm clothing. My travel-friendly scarf shawl  — which also makes for an excellent airplane blanket — came in handy for keeping me warm when hanging out on the porch.

Click here for a great list of unforgettable Boquete tours !

Visiting El Valle De Anton In Panama (aka El Valle)

After our cloud forest adventure in Boquete, we bid farewell to our Airbnb host, Elias, and the adorable Rocky Balboa.

While there is an inexpensive bus from Boquete to David — where you can board another inexpensive bus from David to Panama City — we decided to save time and hassle and instead grabbed a taxi to David’s international airport (1 hour, $50).

Then we took a flight from David to Panama City, where we grabbed a 2.5-hour bus to El Valle de Anton. Or, as it’s more commonly called, El Valle.

The town of El Valle — which I was told sits inside the largest inhabited volcano crater in the world — is known for its hiking trails, natural beauty and unique geography. Here, you’ll enjoy mountain treks, waterfalls, butterfly and orchid gardens, and hot springs.

Taking The Bus To El Valle From Panama City

So from Albrook Bus Station in Panama City there are ticket sellers coming up to you and anxiously asking you where you’re going.

“El Valle de Anton,” I said.

“Come!” A man said, beckoning me to follow.

He hurriedly brought me to a ticket selling table, and I again said “El Valle de Anton.”

A bunch of men were shouting around me, it was hectic and rushed, so when the guy repeated back “Anton?” I didn’t think that that might be a different place.

But alas, it was.

And our 2.5-hour bus ride took almost six hours as we arrived in Anton — different from El Valle de Anton — and had to backtrack to then take two different buses.

But hey, it was an experience.

Picture a small bus where people get on and off before the vehicle even really comes to a complete stop. Latin club beats blast, and on some buses there are even R-rated music videos to go along with them!

El Valle Panama Hotels: Casa del Alma (aka House of Soul)

We booked the funky, zen Casa del Alma space on Airbnb — so if you’ve never used Airbnb before, click here to create your account and receive $40 off your first stay!

This large house with four thoughtfully-decorated guest rooms, each with a private bathroom, is chock full of inspiring nooks, female-centric artwork and playful touches.

Moreover, the outdoor garden features a pool, fireplace (upcharge for setup) and tropical flora attracting birds — including hummingbirds!

In the morning, a big kitchen stocked with coffee, eggs, cereal and bananas is included in your stay.

Hiking In El Valle: La India Dormida Trail

While we had a nice seafood meal at Restaurante Bruschetta and tasty fried chicken from a place off the main drag that read “Bar Restaurante,” the reason to visit El Valle isn’t the food.

It’s the nature.

Specifically, it’s to hike La India Dormida , or “The Sleeping Indian.”

From afar, this mountain range looks like a sleeping indigenous woman, quite a sight to see from afar.

And from the top, the views are even more spectacular.

According to Journey Era , there is a legend surrounding the mountain.

Apparently, an indigenous woman named Luba — a local chief’s daughter — fell in love with a Spaniard, despite incessant fighting between them and her tribe.

There was an indigenous man in her tribe who did love her, but she didn’t feel the same. Deeply hurt, he threw himself off a mountain in front of Luba.

Luba then became hysterical and got lost in the bushes, perishing.

Back to the La India Dormida hike itself, Andy and I were told there are four routes by which you can get to the top. Three are free and one is paid.

We weren’t sure where the free ones were, so we went in the paid entrance near the Piedra Pintada. You’ll see tons of signs in El Valle Town pointing you to La India Dormida as well as to the Piedra Pintada trailhead.

Honestly, I was happy to pay $3 for such a beautiful, well-maintained trail.

After paying, you’re shown a 3D diagram of the natural Panama attractions that await; neat, but nothing compared to seeing them up close.

At  times the 45-minute uphill hike is pretty steep, and you’ll need to traverse uneven rock steps and roots.

That being said, you’ll be distracted from any fatigue thanks to the fact that there’s barely any lag time between sites.

Almost immediately, you see the famed Piedra Pintada , an enormous rock covered in petroglyphs said to date back to Pre-Columbian times; as in, before 1492 when Christopher Columbus “discovered” the Americas.

After that, you’ll cross wooden bridges and veer off the path out onto small outcroppings to view three different waterfalls, each cascade offering something different.

Here is a look at my favorite waterfall from the La India Dormida hike, with beautiful views out toward the Pacific Ocean.

Along the path we saw so many giant Blue Morpho Butterflies, along with yellow-bellied flycatcher birds.

Toward the top, we saw one more petroglyph rock before shortly arriving at a crossroads.

We almost missed it, but in very faint white there is an arrow directing you toward the left.

This takes you higher up the mountain, until you come to a tent with decent views over the valley.

As usual, I thought this was the end before it really was. Like in Boquete, Andy volunteered to run ahead and scope things out.

We were lucky he did, as despite having to climb up a very steep and uneven rock face, we were ecstatic to come up onto the edge of the volcano crater.

The views here are completely open, with rolling hills on one side and the valley drop on the other as you walk along the crater rim.

There are a lot of great photo opportunities here; though do be smart, as the drop down is really long.

Visiting Panama City

After 10 days of Panama beach and jungle exploration, we ended our trip with three nights in Panama City.

Panama City is definitely the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan city I’ve ever been when traveling Central America , with a lot of money coming in thanks to the Panama Canal.

Along with exploring innovative infrastructure, cosmopolitan architecture and cultural institutions like the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo and the Martin Theatre, you can also enjoy Panama beaches, hiking and wildlife in and around the city.

Getting Into Panama City From Tocumen International Airport

When you arrive into Tocumen International Airport, you’ve got a few options for transportation into the city — or to the nearby Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport for domestic flights.

• The bus. The cheapest option at less than $2, though note you can’t bring suitcases.
• Taxis. These you can grab right in the Arrivals Hall. The tourism information booth advised us it would be $35 from Tocumen International Airport to Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport.
• Uber. The best option if you’ve got luggage. We paid about $17 for the 14-mile ride to Albrook “Marcos A. Gelabert” International Airport.  If you’ve never used Uber, you can use code jessief7 to get your first ride free!

Where To Stay In Panama City: Bahia Grand Panama City

While trekking up hills to reach gorgeous jungle view rooms and hiking up steep stone paths for a secluded cloud forest retreat was so worth it, we decided to end with some luxury — and an elevator — by staying at the Bahia Grand Panama City   (formerly the Trump International Hotel & Tower Panama, though it’s now been taken over by JW Marriott).

This Panama City hotel is located in the opulent Punta Pacifica neighborhood, where you’ll see a number of luxury high rise hotels and condominium buildings.

Essentially, the Bahia Grand is a city within a city, with a shopping corridor, four restaurants, five oceanfront pools, a business center and a wellness center.

While mornings were spent enjoying fresh fruit and eggs at the BARcelona buffet breakfast and taking a dip (with a view!) in the 13th floor infinity pool, evenings were enjoyed taking baths in the standalone tub, drinking wine on our 31st-floor balcony and savoring the chefs menu at Tejas .

Their seafood — specifically their ceviche — is incredible!

Attached to the hotel is also the Ocean Sun Casino , from which you can take the elevator up to the 66th floor rooftop bar called Panaviera   Pool Bar .

I don’t think I’ve even been to a bar that high back home in NYC!

Now I have to be honest:

I was much less active in Panama City than I usually am while traveling.

Andy and I packed so much into our Panama itinerary that by the time we reached Panama City we really wanted to chill out.

So, a nice chunk of our time was spent sipping pina coladas out of pineapples by the pool.

#SometimesYouJustGotta

But, that’s not all we did…

Things To Do In Panama City

As stated above, if I could have changed one thing about our Panama itinerary, it would have been staying a few extra days to really get to know Panama City.

A few things we’ve added to our bucket list for the future since we didn’t have time on this Panama trip:

• Visiting Monkey Island where there are a lot of — you guessed it — monkeys.
• Whitewater rafting on the Mamoni River , which offers Class III-IV rapids.
• Taking a food tour of Casco Viejo , Panama City’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed quarter dating back to the 1670s. We certainly explored it, but it would have been a lot of fun to do an actual food tour with a local guide.
• Trekking to the top of Ancon Hill , which is about 1.2 miles each way and offers gorgeous views from the top.
• Spending a few nights in the San Blas Islands , an autonomous territory in Panama touted as possibly the country’s most pristine archipelago. There are over 365 islands, with the native Kuna people inhabiting a few of the larger ones where tourists also visit.
• Hiking the Pipeline Road from Panama City , which introduces you to Panama wildlife like numerous bird species and monkeys.
• Doing an all-inclusive catamaran booze cruise to the renowned Pearl Islands . Out of all the Panama City excursions we saw, this is the one we were most bummed to miss out on. Unfortunately, the catamaran goes out on very specific days which didn’t align with our Panama vacation plans.

Okay, enough about what we didn’t do in Panama City. Let’s talk about what we did do.

One must-have experience is wandering Casco Viejo .

As mentioned above, this Panama City neighborhood dates back to the late 17th century, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You really don’t need a plan here. You can simply walk and admire the historic Spanish colonial facades, which are protected.

In fact, many modern restaurants and bars gut the insides, but are not allowed to change the outsides. This gives Casco Viejo an enchanting old world feel.

Some of our favorite stops within Casco Viejo:

• Café Unido . Attention Instagrammers: This Panama City cafe was made for you. Along with being lovely looking, this is also one of the few places you can try the soft, tea-like Geisha Coffee. It costs a steep $9 per cup, but offered a gentle pick me up!

• CasaCasco . In this multi-level Panama City restaurant you’ve got three eateries to choose from, not to mention a rooftop bar serving tapas and a dance club. We opted for the Asian-focused NacionSushi. Warning: Their rolls are much, much, much bigger than you’re likely used to!

• The Strangers Club . This American-style craft cocktail bar was started by the team behind NYC’s famed Employees Only, along with two Panamanian partners. As many of you know, I lead a cocktail tour in Manhattan, so of course I had to try it. The ambiance is relaxed, with the menu showcasing Panama’s best ingredients. Pro tip: Order the “Angie,” featuring gin shaken with fresh passionfruit, house-made lemongrass syrup and frothy egg white. Yum!

Of course, you’ll also want to admire the views of the Panama City skyline and Panama Bay, as the neighborhood juts into the water.

Additionally, Casco Viejo is full of historic and cultural attractions, like  Palacio de las Garzas (where Panama’s president lives), the 18th century  Catedral de Panamá and the 17th century  La Iglesia San Felipe Neri .

Another experience you can’t miss when you visit Panama City:

Spending time at the Panama Canal !

While I appreciate engineering, I’ll be honest that this isn’t usually how I’d want to spend my time; however, Andy and I agreed that it would be wrong to miss it.

I’m glad we went, as we were able to get up close to the action.

Even if the idea of learning about boats and canals bores you, just seeing how the system works is interesting.

Something else fascinating:

The idea for the canal actually came from France; however, they eventually pulled out, which is when the project became a joint venture between the USA and Panama.

This short two-minute video by The BBC does a great job of explaining this further.

So, how long is the Panama Canal?

A whopping 48 miles, with ships generally taking eight to 10 hours to pass through. Astounding!

After visiting the Panama Canal, Andy and I spent some time roaming Panama City’s lesser-explored areas.

We really enjoyed the walkable  El Cangrejo, Obarrio and Marbella neighborhoods. 

Once we’d sufficiently worked up an appetite, we stopped at one of the most unique Panama City restaurants we’d seen yet:

Wall Street Bar & Lounge in Marbella.

Their concept is innovative in that the menu prices change based on what’s in stock.

The idea is that diners might be tempted to try something they normally wouldn’t order based on a great price.

Plus, the food and cocktails are just really good. Our drinks were works of art, adorned with flowers and burnt fruit slices.

In terms of dining it’s mainly hearty comfort food. We especially loved the burger topped with a creamy house sauce and served with spiced fries.

Definitely don’t come here on a diet!

To end the night — and the trip — Andy and I took an evening stroll along Panama City’s  Cinta Costera .

The coastal beltway begins and ends on the mainland, though a large portion of it weaves away from the city into the water, like one of Saturn’s rings.

Despite it being after 8pm, many locals were out running, skating and riding their bikes.

As we walked, Andy and I were able to take in an impressive view of Panama City, really grasping how humongous the cosmopolitan city really is.

Click here for a great list of unforgettable Panama City tours!

While Andy and I packed a lot into our two-week trip to Panama, we’re both looking forward to going back and exploring even more of what this beautiful country has to offer.

Because trust me, it’s a lot!

Travel Insurance

While you hope everything runs smoothly, sometimes travel just doesn’t go according to plan.

This is why I recommend always purchasing travel insurance. The scary truth is it only takes one bad accident to lose everything — or be thankful you were covered.

Personally, I use SafetyWing, as they’ve got a large network, offer both short-term and long-term coverage (including limited coverage in your home country), are budget-friendly, and offer $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What would you add to this Panama itinerary? Any questions on backpacking Central America? Please share in the comments below!

Panama Itinerary Logistics: Electronics Warning: MacBook Pro problems! Make sure to keep your electronics, namely your laptops, in a sealed bag, as high humidity in places like Bocas del Toro can ruin them. Additionally, you can purchase a dry bag for when your gadgets are not in use, like this one . Panama Transfers: Hello Panama is a top-rated company in Panama who do many of the popular transfers. We used them to go from Bocas Town to Boquete for $30. Car Rentals: Discover Cars  lets you compare various rental companies and save up to 70% on your booking!  Bocas Taxi Boat Recommendation: If you need a boat ride between Bocas Town and another Bocas island, contact Choy at +507 6711 8878. Taxi Service In Boquete Recommendation: William. Very nice guy recommended to us by our Airbnb host! His cell is +507 6784 0277. Recommended Reads:  Panama Fever: The Epic Story of the Building of the Panama Canal Panama: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture Panama Birds: A Folding Pocket Guide to Familiar Species Hands of the Rain Forest: The Emberá People of Panama Packing List:  A few must-pack items when visiting Panama include: A Vigilant personal safety alarm or safety whistle Clever Travel Companion pickpocket-proof garments Speakeasy Supply Co hidden-pocket scarves A compact raincoat A waterproof backpack All-natural insect repellent  Panama Tours: Bocas del Toro Tours Boquete Tours Panama City Tours All Panama Tours

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Thank you, Jessie, for sharing everything in so much details. You’ve made planning a trip to Panama very easy for me. Would love to go for hiking trails. Keep sharing your trips with us!

The natural beauty of Panama looks out of this world! And omg those little hummingbirds! So cute. Panama is officially on my list now. Thanks for such a comprehensive guide Jessie.

That’s a very informative post! You have covered so much and it seems like you had a perfect trip! Whenever I read such posts, my attention diverts to the food bit hehe (which looks amazing in your post btw) but my favourite here is the hands down, the Jungle Lodge, looks like a slice of heaven!

This is such a fantastic & comprehensive guide! It looks gorgeous! Panama is one of my husband’s top destination choices, so I’ll definitely be pinning for when we finally make it out there!

Really appreciate this wonderful post that you have provided for us. Great to share this information thanks.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Destino Panama 360°

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• Day Tour in San Blas Islands All Included Visiting 4 Islands
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• Half Day City and Panama Canal Tour
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• (1.32 mi) MOpanama Tours & Transfers
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• Discover over 1,000 restaurants near Destino Panamá 360°
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Cultura y Vida

Ciencia y tecnología.

Blinken felicita a Mulino, tras triunfo y espera continuar alianza para frenar la migración

Más en nacionales.

Irma Hernández le arrebata la Alcaldía de San Miguelito al PRD

Mayer Mizrachi gana la Alcaldía de Panamá

Independientes lideran la nueva Asamblea Nacional

Conoce los diputados que regresan a la Asamblea

Mulino convocará a candidatos presidenciales para una unidad nacional

Presidente Cortizo llama a su sucesor José Raúl Mulino, tras conocer su victoria

José raúl mulino presidente electo de panamá para el 2024-2029, con más del 50% de las mesas escrutadas, mulino acumula el 34% de los votos, tribunal electoral inicia con la transmisión del ter, caricatura por rac.

El Picadillo

El picadillo del 6 de mayo de 2024, entre grandes desafíos y minorías gobernantes.

El Gobierno de Brasil declara el estado de calamidad en 336 municipios por lluvias en Río Grande del Sur

Equipos estadounidenses llegan a Haití para preparar el despliegue de la misión keniana a finales de mes

Ascienden a 29 los muertos y a 60 los desaparecidos en Rio Grande do Sul (Brasil) por las fuertes tormentas

Gustavo Petro anuncia que Colombia romperá relaciones diplomáticas con Israel

Guatemala declara la emergencia sanitaria nacional por la epidemia de dengue

China promete luchar contra la independencia de Taiwán de cara a la toma de posesión del nuevo presidente

Añaden el delito de soborno a la investigación contra Boluarte por el ‘caso Rolex’

El inolvidable legado de César Luis Menotti

Panamá se alista para los Panamericanos de Santa Marta en un 2024 especial para la gimnasia 

Ante 10 mil fanáticos, Juan Diego Hernández se lleva los honores en el GT Challenge de las Américas

Autódromo Panamá en el radar de la Fórmula Uno

Juan Diego Hernández ganó la primera fecha del GT Challenge

Camaro de Fernando Seferlis, listo para hacer la batalla

La panameña Karla Navas gana medalla de oro en la Copa del Mundo de Qatar 2024

Los hermanos Schubert, rivales a batir en el Autòdromo Panamà

Von der Leyen pide a Xi resolver exceso de producción industrial: «No dudaremos en tomar decisiones difíciles»

Bonos de Panamá suben, tras fallo de la CSJ sobre candidatura de Mulino

Banco Nacional de Panamá obtiene certificación internacional en seguridad de información

Inauguración del nuevo Centro Ejecutivo de INCAE en Panamá: una plataforma para el desarrollo regional

Cartera agropecuaria de Veraguas reporta 67.4 millones de balboas en el primer trimestre

MIDA garantiza comercialización de 367 mil quintales de excedente de maíz

BID Invest amplía su colaboración con Estados Unidos para financiar proyectos de desarrollo en América Latina

El día después

El plato favorito de una abuela italopanameña

Panamá sigue siendo un país folclórico para el resto del mundo

Cultura del silencio versus espacio seguro

Las aves de mal agüero

¡Ahora, a reconstruir el país! Con libertad

Cuando el guiso es sensacional

Marjane Satrapi, voz de la revolución a través del arte

Gérard Depardieu, detenido por presuntas acusaciones de agresión sexual

Mañana de arte e imaginación durante el taller de pintura de la Fundación Olga Sinclair

Muere Lourdes Portillo, directora mexicana nominada al Oscar, a los 80 años

Awakened Life: “El despertar de la conciencia”

Ariana Harwicz plasma el «culto cruel de destruir al otro» en la novela ‘Perder el juicio’

Henrique Coser Moreira, ganador del Premio Internacional de Ilustración Bologna Children’s

Agripina Domínguez, la abuela octogenaria que confecciona pollera

«Serendipia»: Un viaje por el universo creativo de Maritza Sevilla

La OMS asegura que hay una «epizootia mundial» de gripe aviar con infecciones «preocupantes» en nuevas especies

Tecnología y medicina se unen para ofrecer soluciones reales y tangibles a los desafíos de las enfermedades respiratorias

Investigadores vinculan subir escaleras a una vida más larga

La vacunación puede proteger a tus hijos contra enfermedades prevenibles

La infección de Covid-19 más larga documentada alerta de los riesgos de nuevas mutaciones resistentes a vacunas

La OMS da la alarma sobre las hepatitis víricas que se cobran 3500 vidas al día

La OMS presenta una promotora digital de la salud dotada de inteligencia artificial generativa para mejorar la salud pública

Un orangután se cura una herida con una planta analgésica

Fortaleciendo la muralla digital: cuatro consejos para reforzar las contraseñas

Las empresas invierten más de 100 mil dólares al año en mejorar sus equipos de ciberseguridad

Nuevas herramientas de TIC´s permiten combatir riesgos en la transformación de la era digital

Nissan presenta el nuevo Pathfinder

¿Qué es el Internet de las Cosas?

Mes de la concientización sobre el estrés: cómo combatirlo en redes sociales

• ATP entrega manual de uso de la marca turística a la Cámara de Comercio
• CAMTUR y Museo del Canal firman acuerdo para la promoción de la historia y el Canal
• CATM 2024 confirmó el interés de la industria turística de Centroamérica
• Tocumen, el mejor de la región por tercer año consecutivo
• ICCA anuncia que hará parte del Panama Association Hub

Medio nativo digital panameño especializado en turismo.

Panamá se posiciona como destino turístico 

Ya sea por su radiante cultura, rica historia, biodiversidad o a través de su oferta turística, este 2022 Panamá reafirmó su posicionamiento como destino, al ser nombrado como uno de los lugares ideales para visitar en Latinoamérica, por parte de importantes revistas internacionales y premiaciones de turismo. 

Panamá fue catalogado como un país con gran biodiversidad y experiencias que vale la pena descubrir en la región, así se vio reflejado en distintas publicaciones preparadas por medios especializados, que marcan la tendencia anual de los viajes y que poseen una audiencia cautiva de lectores dispuesta a seguir sus recomendaciones como Condé Nast Traveler y Travel & Leisure, por mencionar algunos. 

“Cada vez que los atractivos turísticos de Panamá resaltan en estas publicaciones, generamos mayor conciencia sobre el destino y las experiencias auténticas que podemos brindarles a nuestros visitantes, lo que aumenta la posibilidad de que puedan considerarnos para sus viajes vacacionales o de negocios”, sostuvo Fernando Fondevila, Director General de PROMTUR Panamá. 

PROMTUR Panamá, como organización de mercadeo del destino, desarrolla de forma permanente estrategias de promoción a nivel internacional enfocadas en generar mayor conocimiento sobre los atractivos turísticos del istmo, especialmente en sus 9 mercados prioritarios: Estados Unidos, Canadá, Colombia, Brasil, Costa Rica, Argentina, Francia, Alemania y España. 

Premios a Panamá como destino turístico 

Panamá fue merecedora de importantes premios durante este 2022. Entre los galardones que el país recibió se encuentran: El premio Tourinews al Destino y el Travvy Awards, organizado por la revista TravelPulse y Agent at Home, considerado como un máximo honor en la industria de viajes y otorgado al istmo en diversas categorías. 

De igual manera, la Ciudad de Panamá fue considerada como “mejor destino de ocio en América Latina” en los premios “Leisure Lifestyle Awards”, instaurados por Global Traveler, reconocida editorial de viajes de ocio y estilo de vida. 

Asimismo, nuestro país recibió importantes nominaciones como: “Destino Emergente más deseado» en los premios Wanderlust Travel Awards 2022, constituidos por la revista británica del mismo nombre. 

Expectativas para el 2023 

Recientemente, distintas editoriales han hecho mención a destinos de Panamá como lugares ideales a visitar el próximo año. AFAR, galardonada revista estadounidense sobre viajes experienciales, destacó a Cambutal, ubicado en la provincia de Los Santos, como uno de los 12 lugares para viajar en el 2023. De igual forma, la revista de placer y lujo Town & Country, incluye al istmo dentro de su listado de Los mejores lugares para viajar en 2023 y nombra 3 destinos imperdibles: el Casco Antiguo, El Canal de Panamá y Bocas del Toro. Finalmente, el portal The Points Guy, describe al país y su turismo comunitario como el atractivo turístico que atraerá visitantes, por lo que ha sido nombrado dentro de los 18 mejores lugares para viajar en el 2023. 

Para el 2023 PROMTUR Panamá continuará promoviendo al país en el mercado internacional, de la mano del Plan Maestro de Turismo Sostenible y la marca turística “Vive por Más”, plataforma que adopta un enfoque único para promover el destino, inspirado en el corazón del panameño, orgulloso de su tierra, su herencia y diversidad y colocándolo en el centro de todo junto con el visitante, buscando experiencias estimulantes y auténticas.

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Destino Panamá Provincia Travel Blog en la República de Panamá

Escultismo para bienes raíces casi siempre nos lleva a lugares interesantes . Únase a nosotros a lo largo de nuestros viajes al presentar nuestros destinos panameños Blog mostrando nuestros viajes por la República de Panamá .

MIDA - Colon

General Features of the Province of Colon: Location

Geographical Position : The province of Colon is located in the northern and central part of the Isthmus of Panama. Bounded on the north by the Caribbean Sea, south to Panama and Cocle provinces, east to the San Blas (Kuna Yala) and west to the province of Veraguas.

Territorial Extension : Colon Province covers an area of ​​approximately 4,890.1 square kilometers divided into five districts and forty townships.

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Hotel Sister Moon

A Hidden Eden

Sister Moon elaborates on a cliff overlooking the sea in one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. Lonely Planet described it as the home of the modern Robinson Crusoe. Nurture your body, mind and spirit in a tropical atmosphere with breathtaking sea views forests, impressive rock formations, flowing palm trees where you can enjoy an atmosphere of rest and privacy Cozy cottages, each with its own bathroom and private terrace facing a full bar the pool that winds on the sea A restaurant with the most delicious and varied cuisine, full of flavors typical of the region and international cuisine. All kinds of entertainment and activities: surfing, diving, hiking, water sports, fishing, navigation, and more. A cheerful fishing village less than 20 minutes walk (3 min. by boat). 

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San Marino Ocean Front

San Marino Ocean Front is a unique and exclusive development located on the Caribbean side of Republic of Panama, approximately 90 minutes from Panama City. It consists of 108 lots which are surrounded by Ocean and the Green Rain Forest Hills. Another benefit is the Marina with break water for safe usage of the boat ramp which enhances the entire development.  It has an extensive beach area for walking, swimming or to do some snorkeling. Also it has a natural reef for those who like to see the sunset.

San Marino Ocean Front has a Club House overlooking the Ocean with swimming pool, gazebos, barbecue, bar area for any resident or private meeting. All the streets in the community are paved and private with a perimeter wall and gated security. 

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Colon Costa Arriba 216 HAS

• Located less than a 3 hour drive from the thriving metropolis of Panama City; on the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean.
• Over the course of 5 years, 9 bordering pieces were acquired from beach to main road totaling 216 hectares + 0173.66m2 (533.79 acres).
• The 9 pieces are titled (verifiable through the public registry in Panama City), with approx 16 HAS of beach front currently in rights of possession, requested for purchase (ie: a title request) in 2004 under the name of a Panamanian Corporation. The granting of title on the beach front is pending.
• The property has approximately 1.2km (3,937 feet) of sandy beach and approximately 35m+ (114 feet) of main asphalted road frontage.
• The beach is a beautiful cove with natural coral formations that protect it from erosion and provide a calm water experience with limited tidal changes.
• Of the 1.2 miles of beach front, approximately 40% is direct to the water access, with the balance a mixture non-direct to water access composed of coral and mangrove.
• The property is designated as a low density, coastal tourist zone.

Isla Grande Bananas Resort

Captured around lunchtime while staying in Bananas Resort, located on Isla Grande in Colon. Isla Grande is a popular caribbean vacation/second home area for upper middle class panamanians. The Bananas Resort is located on the open ocean side of Isla Grande, a short boat ride from main land in La Guaira, a sleepy fishing village. Bananas has its own parking area on the mainland and shuttles guests back and forth over the relatively calm waters via small 15hp wooden boats. Bananas resort is arguably the best hotel within a 2 hours distance this side of Panama, second only to Coral Lodge further along the coast towards San Blas. If traveling on a budget, be sure to inquire about the European Plan, otherwise the American Plan will do. A little known fact is that Bananas Resort is built and operates on possessory rights property, and not titled property as some might think. A revelation to some who wish to own and operate a beachfront business while paying no property taxes...whodda thunk it.

Bananas Resort http://www.bananasresort.com

San Blas Carnival 2008

This carnival (2008), I was able to visit San Blas with some friends. We left from Albrook Airport (Marcos A. Gelbert) and arrived in El Porvenir about 40 minutes later. On the way back from El Porvenir, we stopped at Corazon de Jesus which neighbors Nargana, and are said to be the most modern islands in Kuna Yala.

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Colon Nombre de Dios Bay

This video was shot on a recent visit to Nombre de Dios, Colon. The video is of the bay of Nombre de Dios, and was taken early in the morning. As you can see, the morning was a bit overcast but the sun did finally show itself later on in the day. Nombre de Dios is about a 2.5 hour drive from Panama City, and is a sleepy fishing town located on the Atlantic Coast of Panama. With the construction of the Corredor Norte currently underway, the drive time should drop considerably. 

Isla Cañas National Park

Isla de Cañas is located in the Province of Los Santos in the District of Tonosí on a beach 13 kilometers long. Considered one of the most important nesting sites for sea turtles (species Lapidochelis Olivacea) in the Pacific of Panama. The National Park refugee also protects an important habitat of mangrove ecosystems of different marine species. Near the refuge is a picturesque fishing village which together with the staff of the National Environmental Authority (ANAM) protect and manage the thousands of turtles that arrive on its shores each year.

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Borneo over Bali? Here are 5 'destination dupes' for travelers who want unique getaways without the crowds

• Matt Berna of Intrepid Travel said young travelers seek immersive, unique experiences.
• Some are skipping popular tourist spots in favor of so-called "destination dupes."
• Book a vacation in Seoul instead of Tokyo, for example. 

Millennial and Gen Z travelers are over tourist traps.

Intrepid Travel's President of the Americas, Matt Berna, told Business Insider that his company has seen a shift away from popular destinations among tourists between 18- and 35- years old. Intrepid Travel is a small group travel company.

According to Berna, young travelers aren't bogged down by FOMO — or the "fear of missing out" — that influenced older generations. Instead, they want to set the tone.

"They want to be a trendsetter, going to the next cool place," he said.

That's why more young folks are booking so-called " destination dupes ," alternative vacation spots that are more affordable and less crowded than the well-known locations.

Intrepid Travel compiled a list of destination dupes travelers should consider this year.

Visit Corsica instead of Positano.

According to Intrepid Travel, the Mediterranean island of Corsica is a good alternative to Positano, a cliffside village on the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

"Unlike the bustling and tourist-heavy atmosphere of Positano, Corsica offers a more tranquil and peaceful environment, allowing travelers to unwind and immerse themselves in the island's serene and calming ambiance," the company said.

In Corsica, "travelers can enjoy a more authentic, tranquil, and immersive experience, exploring the island's natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse activities without the overwhelming crowds typically found in more popular tourist destinations," the company added.

Visit Seoul instead of Tokyo.

Japan's tourism industry is booming , with a record-breaking 3.1 million visitors this March.

Seoul is a great destination for travelers who want to avoid overcrowded attractions but still explore an Asian megacity like Tokyo.

"Seoul provides an authentic and immersive cultural experience, allowing travelers to explore traditional Korean customs, arts, and lifestyles in a dynamic and modern urban setting," Intrepid Travel said. "This experience provides a deeper understanding of South Korea's rich cultural heritage, which may be less accessible in the more globally popular tourist spots."

Visit Panama instead of Barcelona.

Intrepid Travel told BI that travelers should consider adding Panama to their bucket list instead of Barcelona.

"Panama's diverse natural landscapes, including lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and pristine beaches, provide a captivating backdrop for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers," the company says.

The adventure travel company added that Panama has a "vibrant cultural scene, influenced by its indigenous heritage, Afro-Caribbean roots, and Spanish culture." It offers a "dynamic and diverse experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in local traditions, folklore, and contemporary arts, providing an authentic and enriching journey that differs from the more European-centric cultural landscape of Barcelona."

Travel from Kefalonia to Corfu rather than Split to Dubrovnik.

People with their hearts set on traversing Croatia's coastline might also like island-hopping across the Ionian Sea near Greece.

"Sail through some of the most beautiful Greek islands in the Ionian Sea," Intrepid Travel said. "Travelers can journey to secluded coastlines, private islands, verdant rolling hills and orchards, historic Venetian architecture, warm and inviting tavernas and some of the world's most transparent azure waters."

The company added: "With its unspoiled landscapes and pristine beaches, Kefalonia to Corfu offers a serene haven for travelers seeking a tranquil escape, unlike the more crowded destinations."

Tour Borneo over Bali.

Bali is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia , but Intrepid Travel said travelers can find similar vibes on the island of Borneo.

"While Bali is undoubtedly a stunning destination with its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage, Borneo offers an entirely different experience that is unmatched in its own right," Intrepid Travel said.

The company said that Borneo has a "rich cultural tapestry" with influences from indigenous communities that have preserved their culture "for generations."

"Travelers can immerse themselves in the authentic lifestyles of the local communities, partake in traditional ceremonies, and gain valuable insights into the unique customs and beliefs that define Borneo's cultural heritage," Intrepid Travel said. "By choosing Borneo over Bali, travelers can embark on a journey that transcends mere sightseeing and offers a profound appreciation of the natural wonders and cultural richness that define this remarkable destination."

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Oakland County judge's trainings in Dubai, South Africa, Panama covered by public money

Most every job requires more training these days, and that includes being a judge. New rules in Michigan require that judges take at least 24 hours of “continuing judicial education” every two years.

The new training is on the internet so judges don’t need to leave their courthouses. And it’s free. But some who wear judicial robes may wish to keep visiting distant locales for costly professional conferences, as they’ve quietly been doing for years.

Take the Honorable Debra Nance, a district judge in Southfield. According to expense records obtained by the Free Press, Nance in January traveled to a 10-day professional conference, one that’s not required by the state of Michigan, in the African nation of Ghana — more than 5,000 miles from Detroit. The cost? More than $4,800, all of it covered by Nance’s employer, the 46th District Court.

Last year, Nance traveled to a conference in Dubai, a city of luxury hotels in the United Arab Emirates, more than 7,000 miles from Detroit. That tab? Over $4,600. In previous years, Nance traveled to judicial conferences in Panama, the Dominican Republic and South Africa, each trip costing thousands of dollars, and each charged to the court’s budget, according to expense records obtained by the Free Press.

So, how might flying to Africa improve Nance’s ability to administer justice? Documents obtained by the Free Press show that two seminars were held at the lengthy conference in Ghana. One was called “Comparative Law: Commonalities & Differences between U.S. & Ghahaian Law.” The other was “Domestic Violence at Home and Abroad.” It may seem odd that a district judge in Michigan, who is often focused on driving violations and landlord-tenant cases, would need training in the legal systems of foreign nations.

Traveling jurists

Luxury travel for judges has come under scrutiny at the nation’s highest level. That happened with news coverage of the lack of oversight for U.S. Supreme Court justices. The spotlight for much of that coverage fell on Justice Clarence Thomas who, reporters revealed, had for decades taken luxury vacations as the guest of a real-estate billionaire. Thomas’ trips, while inviting conflicts of interest, occurred at no public cost. Neither did they involve training or professional networking. As well, Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito was outed for being a hedge-fund billionaire’s guest on an Alaskan fishing trip that ProPublica reporters estimated would’ve cost well over $100,000, had Alito paid his way. Alito neither disclosed the trip on his annual financial disclosures to the court nor did he recuse himself from voting several years later in favor of the hedge fund boss, in a case that came before the court and ultimately brought a payment of $2.4 billion to the hedge fund.

In Michigan, Nance isn't the only judge taking trips at public expense. In a yearlong investigation, the Free Press requested records for travel expenses at numerous courthouses in Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties, in circuit as well as district courts. The investigation found that, although most judges seek modest reimbursements for traveling to conferences and training sites, a handful in metro Detroit have charged costly trips to their courthouse budgets.

I n 2019, Oakland Circuit Judge Denise Langford-Morris, who has since retired, attended a convention of lawyers and judges in New York City for $1,940.26. In the same year, Macomb County Circuit Judge Joseph Toia attended a conference of the National Association of Drug Court Personnel in Nashville, Tennessee for $1,634.54. And although travel expenses in many courthouses dropped during and after the pandemic, there are other examples.

Still, among judges in metro Detroit, the Free Press found that Southfield’s courthouse was the biggest and most consistent spender of public dollars on travel, and Nance was the main traveler. Because courts are funded from various revenue streams, it’s not possible to say that Nance’s trips were entirely covered by taxpayer dollars. It is possible to say, however, that they were covered by public money — taxpayer dollars along with the fines and costs paid by members of the public, such as motorists paying traffic tickets and defendants paying criminal fines and court costs. About two-thirds of the annual budget of 46 th District Court is covered by fines and court costs paid by the public.

In other words, when Nance imposes fines and costs on defendants, she knows she is bringing revenue to the court. The rest of the revenue to fund the courthouse comes from Southfield’s taxpayers, an amount that recently has totaled more than $1.6 million per year, according to budget figures provided by the Southfield city fiscal director. The cost of the trips irks Southfield Mayor Ken Siver.

“The taxpayers of Southfield are not only paying for the court’s expenses. We’re paying for Nance’s trips. And her trips are not approved by the city, but we still have to cover them,” Siver said. Nance’s travel expenses need only the signed approval of the court’s chief judge, according to the court’s expense records.

Siver continued: “I’ve made a stink about this every year at budget time. Our city administrator has talked to the court administrator and the chief judge on it, but as long as the money flows, they don’t care.”

No rule prohibiting travel

During a visit to Nance’s courtroom in late March, a Free Press reporter asked Nance what she felt she gained from her overseas trips, either personally or professionally. She said she had no comment. Nance’s supervisor, Chief Judge Shelia Johnson, who approved Nance’s trips, defended them.

“I think the trips for Judge Nance come under the category of judicial education,” Johnson said in a telephone interview.

“There is no rule that says this has to be in the state of Michigan. As long as you’re taking conferences that relate to judicial education, it’s justified and I would encourage that."

Nance's costly trips were organized by the National Bar Association, a nationwide group of mainly African American lawyers and judges. This year, the NBA scheduled three big trips for judges and lawyers: a 16-day one scheduled in May to the French Riviera and Barcelona, Spain; a weeklong annual meeting at a luxury Las Vegas hotel in July, and earlier this year, the 10-day African trip to Ghana that Nance attended in January.

Asked about traveling to Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean for lengthy trips whose agendas show they are primarily about sightseeing and resort vacationing, Johnson was politely insistent that such trips were fine with her. The overseas trips give participants “an emphasis on comparing judicial practices from country to country,” and they can provide “a broad perspective that does help you in your day-to-day work as a judge," she said.

Regarding the educational value of Johnson’s own trip, to New Orleans in 2018, for which she charged the courthouse $1,788.36, she said: “I can’t remember. That’s so long ago. I could look it up in my records and see what the seminars covered.”

She concluded: “It sounds like people want to embarrass judges for traveling to these conferences. ... These things keep you engaged as a judge.”

It’s Johnson’s signature that appears on Nance’s expense reports, approving her reimbursement for attending overseas conferences, which are listed as “City of Southfield Business Travel Expense.” On the forms, above Johnson’s signature, are these words: “I hereby certify that the travel indicated hereon was accomplished according to proper authorization, that the information is correct, and that no part of the compensation claimed was of a personal nature.”

Networking and education

The National Bar Association calls itself “the nation’s oldest and largest global network of predominantly Black American attorneys and judges.” It was founded in 1925 because Black lawyers were being denied membership in the all-white American Bar Association, according to online histories. The group provides scholarships for Black law students and helps them land internships at the start of their careers, according to the group’s website. As for the sponsored trips, online agendas show that many are mainly about networking and the theme “Relax, Rejuvenate and Explore.”

Asked to comment on its trips, NBA officials declined to return email and phone messages left by the Free Press at their offices in Washington, D.C. But the president of the NBA's affiliate group in Michigan, the Wolverine Bar Association, said the group is known for its educational trips as well as for aiding Black law students who seek internships and tutoring.

The NBA offers numerous credits in continuing legal education "at various conferences around the United States and overseas as well," said Diane Hutcherson, who is staff counsel to the Auto Club Insurance Association, known as AAA. Hutcherson said that, as a single parent, she had been unable to participate in overseas trips, but she said "there are many people who have and they're generally able to avail themselves of networking and educational opportunities."

"It may be pretty in Dubai but it's also educational," she said, referring to last year's NBA trip.

Virtually all judges incur some travel costs at public expense, doing so for training and to attend events for professional networking. As chief judge in Southfield, Johnson has taken trips at public expense, although none of the expense vouchers provided to the Free Press showed her traveling overseas. Her travel vouchers were signed by the court administrator, according to documents that the Free Press obtained via the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. Johnson incurred only modest travel expenses, according to those documents.

A third judge at 46th District Court in Southfield, Cynthia Arvant, expensed a bill for $1,291.74 in late 2022 for a conference held in Detroit. Arvant, who by law must live in Oakland County to serve as a judge in the county, charged her courthouse for a two-night stay at Detroit’s Westin Book Cadillac so that she could attend a weekend conference of the National Association of Women Judges without needing to drive home each night. District court judges in Michigan earn $172,134.62 per year, according to a spokesman for the Michigan Supreme Court.

More: Sexual harassment lawsuit involving Pistons exec and his executive assistant settles

What's reasonably necessary?

Southfield city officials told the Free Press they felt they had no choice but to cover all costs submitted by the courthouse located behind their city hall, even if those costs include overseas trips to luxury hotels. Yet, according to state law and regulations of the Michigan Supreme Court, local units of government are responsible only for “adequately funding” courthouses. That seems to leave room for interpretation and, potentially, for challenging any high travel expense of court employees, including judges. State law is equally nonspecific as to defining what should be considered “adequate.” Officials at the Michigan Supreme Court and the State Court Administrator’s Office said that no one at those institutions could give legal advice on courthouse expenses. They suggested viewing the guidance delivered in a 2004 state Supreme Court decision, a case between Crawford County and its circuit court. ( 46th Circuit Trial Court v Crawford Co., 261 Mich. App 477; 682 NW2d 519 2004. )

That case established “that the inherent-power doctrine supplies a court with the authority to take whatever steps are reasonably necessary to fulfill the judicial function.” A key word is “reasonably.” It calls for a judgment about what is “reasonable” to spend for operating a courthouse. If the city of Southfield were to challenge its judges over travel expenses, and refuse to pay some of those expenses, the judges could sue and cite this case.

But Southfield might prevail. The Crawford County dispute was about something far more important and considered more "reasonable" than travel expenses. It involved the refusal of Crawford County to stand by its agreement to increase the health and retirement benefits of the court’s employees. Such expenses were reasonable, the county’s circuit court argued. And the Michigan Supreme Court agreed. Travel expenses for judges, in comparison, seem trivial, even if they represent trips that are hardly relevant to a judge’s duties. Still, the city of Southfield would seem to have a case if it refused to pay for costly travel.

Mackinac Island trips

Besides taking luxurious overseas trips, Nance has attended Michigan’s annual conference of judges, held each summer on Mackinac Island. For more than a decade, scores of judges have attended the conference, formerly held each August at one of Michigan’s priciest resorts, the Grand Hotel at Mackinac Island. After prices rose — a typical summer night’s lodging there this year costs more than $1,000 — the state court administrator’s office switched the conference to the less expensive Mission Point Resort for the three-day conference of the Michigan Judges Association. According to judges who’ve attended, important training and lectures do take place at these yearly meetings.

It was an incident at that conference on Mackinac Island in 2019 that led to an investigation of Nance by the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission. The JTC’s investigation stems from misconduct allegations involving a dispute that Nance and a Detroit judge had over a bicycle rental. In the investigation of the dispute, in which the Detroit judge was accused of misusing her position outside a courtroom, Nance was accused of lying to investigators in July 2020 and again in September 2021. The Detroit judge told police that she had been assaulted by the bike shop owner. But when police viewed the shop’s surveillance video, they wrote in their police report — obtained by the Free Press — that the Detroit judge had been the assailant, not the shop owner. That led the JTC to investigate both Nance and the Detroit judge, 36th District Court Judge Demetria Brue.

With Michigan judges now required to take considerably more training, they have choices to make. Judges can obtain it free via online courses, received in their courthouses from the Michigan Judicial Institute, a state agency. Or they can, instead, choose to take the new training in person, perhaps in Michigan, but maybe at distant locales that require overnight or even overseas travel.

Judges who travel for their training can be a costly public expense. With little public scrutiny, they get to choose. Michigan judges “have options” about where they will get their new training, said John Nevin, communications director for the Michigan Supreme Court.

Contact Bill Laytner: [email protected]

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A rip current statement in effect for Coastal Broward and Coastal Miami Dade Regions

Eeuu restringe visas a directivos de navieras colombianas que transportan migrantes.

Associated Press

BOGOTÁ – El Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos anunció el lunes la imposición de restricciones de visado para directivos de empresas de transporte marítimo en Colombia, aludienda a que “se aprovechan” de migrantes irregulares para facilitarles su viaje con destino a Estados Unidos.

“Las restricciones de visado de Estados Unidos promueven la responsabilidad de estos actores y envían un mensaje de que nadie debería lucrarse de los migrantes vulnerables, ni contrabandistas, ni empresas privadas, ni funcionarios públicos”, señaló en una declaración oficial Matthew Miller, portavoz del Departamento de Estado.

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La declaración difundida por la Embajada de Estados Unidos en Colombia no detalla a qué empresas pertenecen los ejecutivos ni en qué parte de Colombia están ubicadas.

El Departamento de Estado no respondió de inmediato a la solicitud de The Associated Press por información al respecto.

Sin embargo, en el país andino la migración por mar se concentra especialmente en Necoclí, un pequeño pueblo del Caribe donde decenas de migrantes abordan diariamente embarcaciones de turismo autorizadas para moverse por mar abierto en un trayecto de poco más de una hora hasta Acandí o Capurganá, donde inicia la peligrosa travesía por la selva del Darién.

En 2023 transitaron por el Darién más de 520.000 migrantes, según el gobierno de Panamá, lo que representa un récord de desplazamientos, especialmente de personas procedentes de Venezuela, Ecuador, Haití, China y Colombia.

Entre enero y marzo de este año han transitado más de 110.000 personas por esta ruta.

El Departamento de Estado indicó que las restricciones para directivos de navieras en Colombia fueron tomadas en virtud de una política anunciada en febrero que apunta a propietarios, altos funcionarios y ejecutivos de empresas de transporte terrestre, marítimo y de vuelos chárter que brindan servicios que son diseñados para ser usados por personas que buscan migrar irregularmente a Estados Unidos.

En la declaración, el Departamento de Estado indicó que continuarán tomando acciones de restricción de visado como parte de una campaña “más amplia para eliminar tales prácticas explotadoras dentro y fuera del hemisferio occidental en colaboración con socios del gobierno y el sector privado.”

Las autoridades colombianas capturaron en febrero a dos capitanes que trabajaban para dos empresas de transporte turístico en Necoclí, tras ser señalados por la Fiscalía de presuntamente transportar de manera ilegal migrantes en precarias condiciones de seguridad. En protesta, las navieras cesaron sus labores por varios días provocando el represamiento de cientos de migrantes que esperaban zarpar, lo que interrumpió la migración a través del Darién.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. Todos los derechos reservados. Este material no puede ser publicado, difundido, reescrito o redistribuido sin permiso.

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