Experience the Rainforest and Culture in Panama
Located in Central America, Panama is becoming increasingly popular as a travel destination. The country is an outdoor adventurers paradise. From hiking through the rain forest to some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world, Panama has something for everyone. The rain forest extends right into Panama City so you don’t have to travel far to be able to experience all of the wildlife and peacefulness that it has to offer. Out of all of the destinations I have ever been, I have never seen so much wildlife living in their natural environment. Daily we would see sloths, capybara, tamarin, spider monkeys and so much more.
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Panama has plenty of culturally rich experiences as well. Once above water, Panama became the land bridge that connected North America with South America. Today, you can walk the original jungle trail that was used to transport gold in the 1500’s. You can also visit the 48-mile long Panama Canal, where more than 25,000 people lost their lives in the ten years that it took to build the waterway. If you are looking to support one of the seven indigenous tribes that still live in Panama, book a tour to learn about their history and support their efforts to maintain their lands.
Panamanians continue to make great strides in pushing their country to be more eco-friendly. In my experience, the hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions all focused on what could be done to better the environment. From restaurant menus featuring sustainable dishes, the lack of straws and single use plastics, and the overall care for wildlife was commendable. Luckily, I was able to spend a few days in Panama for work and I hope to go back and spend more time enjoying this beautiful country. To top it all off, the official currency of Panama is the US dollar, which prevents you from having to convert money for your trip. Visit Panama, contribute to their economy, and enjoy a delicious bowl of sancocho!
Where to Stay
Gamboa Rainforest Reserve
Located in Panama’s Soberania National Park, this resort is located right on the Panama Canal. While the resort could use a little updating, you won’t be spending much time in your room with all of the activities that the Reserve has to offer. I took advantage of the Night Safari Ride, walking The Pipeline Road, visiting the Nature Labs and Sloth Sanctuary, riding the Aerial Tram, visiting the orchid gardens and going on a boat ride through Gatun Lake and the Panama Canal. This resort is perfect if you are looking for a no-frills vacation where you are surrounded by nature.
The Bristol Panama Hotel
This hotel is beautifully decorated, centrally located in Panama City and has a spa with amazing views of the city. If you are looking for gourmet Panamanian cuisine, try out their restaurant, Salsipuedes. The crocodile and octopus were fantastic.
The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort Panama
This Marriott owned resort was a little slice of heaven nestled in the rainforest. It has a gorgeous chapel on the property that would be perfect for a destination wedding. The resort has it all – a beach, spa, golf course, kids activities, and much more.
Things To Do
Miraflores Locks
Did you know that it costs a cruise ship around a half of a million dollars to pass through the Panama Canal just once? Or that it takes 8 – 10 hours for a ship to pass through the canal? I was surprised how interested I was in visiting the canal and I have to admit – I had no idea how it all worked prior to my visit. I would highly recommend checking this place out.
Panama City Walking Tour
We were able to see all of the ships waiting to pass through the Panama Canal at the Amador Causeway, wander the streets of San Felipe and do some shopping at the local markets.
