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3 weeks round trip - September 2022

First, we spend a few days in Panama City and enjoy the atmosphere of the metropolis. The journey with a stopover in the USA and the time difference make themselves felt. Then we set off for the dream beaches on two oceans and the dense rainforests of the national parks.

Panama as a travel destination

Panama is generally a safe country to travel to. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are widespread and cab drivers in Panama City have scammed a few extra dollars. It is therefore advisable to take an Uber.

Special vaccinations are not necessary. Transport by public transport (buses and minibuses) was well organized.

 

Flag of Panama
Skyline of Panama City from the park
Skyline of Panama City from the water
Bar in the old town of Panama City
The streets of the old town at night

Panama City

Panama City is known for its glittering financial industry towers. But there is also a well-preserved and lively old town. The colonial city center Casco Viej with its colorful houses, old churches, small boutiques and rooftop bars is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and absolutely worth seeing.

Beach with palm trees Caribbean
Colorful tour bus in Bocas del Toro
Love in the sand
Beach with palm trees Pacific
The tops of palm trees
Pelicans on the beach

Dream beaches

There are numerous secluded dream beaches and a very laid-back atmosphere on the country's coasts. The Caribbean coast is an idyll of white sand and palm trees. The Pacific beaches are a little wilder with rough surf. Overall, the beaches are less crowded than in other parts of the world. 

Small restaurant in Bocas del Toro
Drone- Shot of Coco Vivo
Accommodation with jungle and small reef
Yellow starfish in Panama
Starfish with a fish
Chicken in front of a hut in Panama

Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro in the northwest of Panama is a Caribbean paradise that is very popular with backpackers and surfers. The town itself offers a mixture of party, nature and beach. We spent several days on a small island in Cocovivo. The small accommodation is right in the jungle and the coral reef in front of it is perfect for snorkeling.

Black howler monkey
View into the jungle canopy
Waterfall in the jungle
Close-up of a cicada
Hiking trail in the jungle
Waterfall in the jungle

Panama's jungle

Panama's national parks and protected areas cover around 34% of the country's surface area. We took advantage of this for several short hikes. The jungle is part of the Central American rainforest belt and connects North and South America. It is one of the most biodiverse regions on earth. A place full of secrets and natural beauty - green, wild and alive.

Lock on the Panama Canal
Sailors on a ship on the Panama Canal

Panama Canal

No trip to Panama is complete without a visit to the famous canal. Around 6% of world trade passes through the 82 km long waterway. The pictures show the Miraflores lock near Panama City. There is a viewing platform for observing the ships and a small museum.