Panama Travel Guide | Tips & Stories

Panama

Panama is far more than just its famous canal. This narrow country connecting North and South America surprises with incredible diversity packed into a small space. Tropical rainforests teeming with monkeys and toucans, Caribbean dream islands with crystal-clear waters, modern skyscrapers standing next to colonial architecture, and a vibrant culture that blends indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and Spanish influences. From the car-free islands of Guna Yala in San Blas to the laid-back vibes of Bocas del Toro to the bustling capital of Panama City, this country offers something for every taste. Add excellent coffee from the highland regions, fresh ceviche on every corner, and a hospitality that instantly warms your heart. Panama is a land of contrasts and surprises, perfect for adventurers who want to combine Caribbean beaches, jungle exploration, and city life in one single trip.

5 stories to explore

Panama captivated us so much that we flew there twice. Tom first visited the country back in 2017, and over Christmas 2023 until mid-January 2024, we returned together to dive even deeper into the diversity of this fascinating country.

An absolute highlight was our four days on the San Blas Islands. Surrounded by turquoise waters and coconut palms in the middle of the Caribbean, we felt like we had reached the edge of the world. In Bocas del Toro, we witnessed a magical natural phenomenon: bioluminescence, where the ocean glows in mystical blue at night. A true insider tip!

In Panama City, we watched toucans and capuchin monkeys with their long tails in the city parks and marveled at the massive container ships passing through the Panama Canal. In the historic Casco Viejo, we took a tango course and strolled through the atmospheric streets. What accompanied us every single day: the outstanding Panamanian coffee that made every morning a joy.

Panama completely won us over with its mix of nature, culture, and Caribbean flair. A country that definitely deserves more attention!