Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
2
The canal
Whether you're watching giant container ships squeeze through the locks or
transiting on a boat, the beauty and engineering brilliance of the world's most famous short-
cut is awe-inspiring.
3
Colonial forts
While the Spanish forts at Portobelo boast more cannons, San Lorenzo's at-
mospheric location, towering above the Río Chagres, is hard to beat.
4
Santa Fé
Refreshing waterfalls, gorgeous views and an abundance of flowers make this
friendly mountain village in Veraguas an ideal place to unwind.
5
Boquete
At the foot of Volcán Barú, Panama's highest peak, Boquete is the centre of both
gourmet coffee production and adventure activities.
6
Bocas del Toro
Bohemian Bocas, traditionally associated with diving, surfing, and snor-
kelling by day, and drinking and partying by night, has an ever-expanding menu of appealing
day-trips.
7
Guna Yala
One of the largest semi-autonomous areas in the world, the Comarca Guna Yala
offers visitors near-deserted tropical beaches and culturally rich island-villages, as well as
mangroves and rainforest on the mainland.
8
Lago Bayano
Popular with Panamanians, but less well known to foreign tourists, this reser-
voir hosts a splendid network of limestone caves.
9
Parque Nacional Darién
The one place to stay is the remote bunkhouse at Rancho Frío,
where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the rainforest.
SAND, SEA AND SURF
Possessing lengthy coastlines bordering the Atlantic and Pacific, and almost 1500 islands,
Panama has plenty of beaches to laze on or surf off as well as boasting some impressive mar-
ine life.
1
Playa Bluff, Isla Colón
This 5km expanse of deserted sand hosts a consistent beach break
and is perfect to stroll or ride along on horseback. At night, in season, you can watch turtles
lay their eggs.
2
Parque Marino Golfo de Chiriquí
Explore coastal mangroves and secluded coves by
kayak, looking out for green iguanas sunning themselves on the rocks.
3
Isla Coiba
Providing opportunities to swim with rays, whales and sharks, Coiba is a diver's
paradise, though it provides some great snorkelling too.
4
Santa Catalina
Panama's top surfing spot has a world-class break, but also a good beach
for novices and a mellow après-surf scene.
5
The Azuero Peninsula
The southern end of the Azuero is fringed with endless stretches of
sand and prized surfing spots that you can sometimes have all to yourself.
