As distinct as the white-brimmed hats and the engineering feat that is the Panama Canal, Panama itself is a country that encourages visitors to view the vast array of wildlife both above in the rainforests as well as below the surface. The country claims to be one of the most biodiverse on the planet and apart from the natural plethora of wildlife, there is an ethnic heritage that is well preserved.
The strategic economic value that the canal holds is the crucial link between the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans and the backbone of the Panamanian economy. However, the coffee trade and tourism are complementary industries that support not only the capital city, Panama City but the jungle regions too.
Commonly referred to as an ‘isthmus’, which is a thin strip of land that connects two large areas, Panama was established as a Spanish colony in 1501 and has been a hotly contested country due to its strategic value and rich landscape. Colombia, Spain and the United States have all had a stake in the Central American hub.
Other attractions
The purpose of your visit to Panama might be diving but don't miss the opportunity to visit the many parks, reserves and refuges to see more than 10,000 plant species and over 900 kinds of birds. In the remote rainforest at La Amistad International Park, pumas, ocelots, margays, jaguars, and jaguarondis roam. Adventure lovers are catered for with rafting, ziplining, rainforest tours or even waterfall hopping in the Colce region. If you like that type of fun, you could also opt to gamble the night away at one of the many casinos in Panama City, Chiriqui and Chitre, or visit the Panama Canal of course.
Getting there
The majority of travel to Panama is by air using the international airlines that fly out of major airports in North and South America. The only direct flights out of Europe are from Amsterdam and Madrid. If you are traveling from South America, you are able to choose from Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil and Argentina amongst others. Whether it is by cruise ship or if you can sail, the country will welcome you by water too.
Note - Travel to any destination may be adversely affected by conditions including (but not limited) to security, entry and exit requirements, health conditions, local laws and culture, natural disasters and climate. Regardless of your destination, check your local travel advisory board or department for travel advice about that location when planning your trip and again shortly before you leave.
