Panama is a small, enchanting country straddling the North and South American continents. Called the “Crossroads of the Americas”, this Central American nation attracts increasingly large numbers of tourists each year. People from around the globe flock to see the country’s diverse attractions, which range from destinations in Panama’s lush rainforests to urban hotspots in Panama City. Whether one’s style is adventurous or laid-back, Panama has something to offer.
Historical Attractions in Panama
Panama’s rich history offers traveler’s a wealth of opportunities to take a step into the past. One can take a cab ride to the outskirts of Panama City to visit Panama Viejo, the 500-year-old ruins of the area’s first Spanish settlement. To get a sense of Panama’s diverse cultural history, tourists can visit Panama City’s Casco Antiguo district, which was designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Casco Antiguo, one can view a wide spectrum of architectural styles that represent many centuries’ worth of traditions.
In the Casco Antiguo district, one can also find the fascinating Canal Museum, one of two major museums devoted to the Panama Canal. A second museum dedicated to the canal is located near the Miraflores Locks. An active tourist may choose to traverse the Canal and its surrounding jungle terrain.
Outdoor Activities in Panama
Panama’s diverse geographic features and extensive national park system make the country a paradise for those who love to spend their time out-of-doors. Adventurous travelers may hike up Panama’s highest peak at Volcan Baru National Park in Panama’s north. One of the most ecologically-diverse parks in Central America is at La Amistad International Park, which crosses Panama’s border into Costa Rica.
Hikers may enjoy trekking Panama’s famous Quetzal Trail in Chiriqui province, where the famous Resplendent Quetzal bird can be spotted. Panama, with over 900 species of birds, is an excellent destination for bird-watchers. For those who would rather ride than walk, Panama offers many opportunities for horse-riding as well.
For travelers who are eager to get wet, Panama offers a wide range of water-based activities. Tourists will encounter many opportunities for scuba-diving and snorkeling. Panama also affords visitors the chance to enjoy river and ocean kayaking, canoeing, and boating. One can see Panama’s captivating natural beauty in the country’s national marine parks at Coiba and the Gulf of Chiriqui
Other Attractions in Panama
One interesting activity for curious travelers is visiting a coffee plantation. One can get a peek at the process of growing some of the world’s best coffee (and might even get a taste). Panama also has a vibrant nightlife scene and visitors can find exciting bars and nightclubs in cities and towns across the country. Tourists looking for relaxation can visit many of the nation’s hot springs sites.
Visiting Panama
Panama’s most remarkable trait is its diversity. It is a nation where countryside adventures lie only minutes from large cities and where a colorful variety of cultural experiences are possible. Whether one wants his or her vacation to be exhilarating or relaxing, Panama is sure to have an activity or destination to match one’s tastes.
(For more information on things to do in Central America, one can visit these articles on Costa Rica and Nicaragua.)
References
- "Introducing Panama." Lonely Planet. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jun 2010.
- "Panama Tourist Information." virtourist.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jun 2010.
- "Panama Travel Guide." virtualtourist.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jun 2010.
- "Panama Travel Guide." worldtravelguide.net. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jun 2010.
- "Tourism in Panama/Facts for Travelers." businesspanama.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jun 2010.
- "What To Do & See." panamainfo.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jun 2010.
Matthew Holliday - I am a student of mathematics and computer science at Northern Michigan University. You can follow my writing on twitter here.
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