Panama

One of the most difficult engineering feats in history, the Panama Canal is an artificial waterway that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. First opened in 1914, the canal is over 48 miles long and drastically reduces the time it takes for ships to travel between the two oceans. Visitors can go to the Miraflores Canal Visitor Center to find out details about the project, the difficulties that were faced, and the obstacles the canal overcame. The exhibits, interactive displays, and movie are a fun and educational way for visitors of all ages to explore. Visitors should visit after 2:00 pm as fewer ships pass in the daytime, and can have a meal on the terrace at the Miraflores Restaurant to watch the giant ships majestically move as they dine.

The Ancon Hill reserve is a 654-foot-high foothill that was once used as an administration site for the Panama Canal. The undeveloped hill is the highest point in Panama City and offers amazing panoramic views of the hub below. Visitors can reach the summit with a 30-minute hike and then go on to explore the jungle areas. The hike can take 1.5 to 2 hours and is best done early in the morning to avoid the heat. Visitors will come across wildlife such as nine-banded armadillos, sloths, deer, and Geoffroy's tamarins. Ornithology aficionados will enjoy identifying the 39 different bird species that visit the hill.

With the goal of developing and maintaining a bio-diverse tropical center for people to better understand, appreciate, and explore, the non-profit Amador Foundation opened the Biomuseo. Backed by the prestigious Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, this is a great place for visitors to better understand the country's waters, forests, and other natural resources. The building was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry and has eight galleries and a biodiversity park. Visitors of all ages will enjoy walking around park, a living extension of the museum, housing endemic and native plants of the land.

Edificio 136, Calzada de Amador, Amador Causeway 136, Panama City, Panama, Phone: +507-830-6700

A small town in the province of Chiriqui, Boquete is a popular Panama attraction for locals and visitors. The scenic location is surrounded by towering hills and mountains, giving visitors a breathtaking panoramic view. People are attracted from all over to the land's cool climate and its close proximity to the majestic Volcan Baru. One of the most sought-out destinations in Panama, the town's gorgeous natural surroundings makes it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. The hiking trails, pristine waterfalls, ancient volcano, and unique species of flora and fauna are amazing to explore. Visitors can relax in the luxurious Valle Escondido Resort or Lucero Country Club, which has full-service spas and fitness programs.

Comprising a chain of islands off of the Caribbean coast, the Bocas Del Toro archipelago is a unique aspect of the country that all Panama visitors simply must experience. The indescribable natural beauty of the lush tropical vegetation and stunning white sand beaches make Bocas del Toro a biodiverse fantasy world. Bocas Town, the capital of the main island Isla Colon, is the spot for seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and nightlife that goes on well into the night. Popular activities include surfing, bird watching, forest trekking, snorkeling, exploring the nearby Indian village, playing with the marine turtles, and maneuvering the waters in a sailboat.

Adventuras Panama has been providing exhilarating tours of the land since 1994. Their travel packages take visitors to many parts of Panama, such as the capital city, the Chiriqui Highlands of Boquete, the port city of Colon, Mamey Island, and many other places. The tours can be personalized based on interests, such as visiting the tribes, exploring the rainforest, enjoying a honeymoon, or creating a custom-made trip. The more adventurous at heart will love the activities that can be done during the tour, such as kayaking, rafting, hiking, diving, and canyoning. The tour company is one of the best ways of exploring Panama, ensuring that you don't miss out on anything during your vacation.

P.O. Box 0823-04277, Panama, Republic of Panama, Phone: (011) 507-6679-4404

Puente de las Americas, or Bridge of the Americas, was originally called the Thatcher Ferry Bridge. Located in Panama City, the bridge spans the Pacific Ocean entrance to the Panama Canal and has a total length of over 1,654 meters. Until 2004, it was one of the only non-swinging bridges connecting North and South America. The bridge played a large role in world trade, as its addition increased road traffic across the canal. Visitors can appreciate the impressive site of the bridge and go across the pedestrian walkways to get stunning views of the surroundings.

Also known as San Felipe or Casco Antiguo, Casco Viejo is Panama City's historic district. The settlement was completed in 1763 and was built following a horrific pirate attack that had destroyed the previous buildings. The district was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and houses many sites and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most visited are the El Palacio de las Garzas, which is the governmental office and residence of the President of Panama, La Catedral Metropolitana, which is the main Catholic temple in Panama City, and the church and convent of Saint Francis of Assisi.

Cerro Azul is a mountain town that's a quick 40 minutes away from the bustle of Panama City. Resembling the Swiss Alps in terms of weather and scenery, this tiny town is perfect for a sudden weekend getaway. The ride takes visitors to an altitude of approximately 3,000 feet and offers stunning view of the valleys below. Along the way, visitors will come across an exuberant display of flowers such as large bougainvillea and orchids in varying colors and size. Outdoorsy visitors will love exploring the rivers and streams that cascade down to Chagres National Park.

Coronado is a beach town in Panama that's popular with tourists and residing expats. The coastal town is only an hour away from Panama City and offers amazing black and white sand beaches that lead out to the Pacific Ocean. One of the most well-developed resort towns in Panama, Coronado offers more than just a refreshing ocean dip and sun bathing. Visitors can spend their time playing a round of golf or even learning to if they don't know how. They can also go horseback riding on the beach, surf, go shopping for souvenirs, and dine at some amazing restaurants. Nightlife includes live music and beachside bars that keep the party going until well into the night.