Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Resist the temptation to collect or buy corals or shells or to loot marine archae-
ological sites.
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Do not feed fish and never ride on the backs of turtles.
Cycling
Owing to its compact size and modern infrastructure, Panama is the perfect country to
unleash a little pedal power. As with all long-distance cycling, you need to prepare your-
self both physically and mentally for the rigors of the road. The major factor when con-
sidering a lengthy bike ride is the weather. With heat a serious factor, riding in the early
morning and resting in the heat of the day is a good strategy. Also, it's not entirely safe to
ride in the rain. Throughout much of the country, the rains come from mid-April to mid-
December, though the Caribbean has rain virtually year-round. Beyond the capital,
you're essentially on your own, but never underestimate the prowess of the village mech-
anic.
Wildlife-Watching
Unlike the savannahs of Africa, wildlife-watching in the Neotropical rainforest is an ex-
ercise in patience and stealth - a little luck doesn't hurt either. Although it's unlikely
you'll come across top predators such as jaguars and pumas, primates and lesser mam-
mals are commonly sighted. Top national parks for watching-wildlife include La
Amistad, Volcán Barú and the Darién. Closer to the capital, Parque Natural Metropolit-
ano and Parque Nacional Soberanía are easily accessible and quite good.
Highlights
Nowhere else in the world are rainforests as easily accessible as they are in this tiny sliv-
er of a country. To make the most of your wildlife-watching experience, pick up a good
field guide. Some highlights include:
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Two- and three-toed sloths
Found only in Neotropical rainforests, these ancient mam-
mals came into being when South America was isolated. Curled up high on a branch, they
are hard to spot. They spend 16 hours a day asleep or inactive but are busy with diges-
tion.
