In the heart of Central America, nestled between the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea and the calm Pacific Ocean, lies Panama. On the map, it looks a bit like a narrow bridge connecting two continents, but in reality, it’s a country full of contrasts, where the skyscrapers of Panama City neighbor pristine jungles and indigenous villages.

I wanted to learn as much as possible about Panamanian culture, history, tradition, and nature, but above all, about the people. So, I began my journey by visiting the Embera tribe. In this post, I’ll share my travel plan, which I hope will inspire you to discover Panama from this perspective.

Weather in Panama

I’ll start with the weather, as it’s truly the key to planning a trip. Panama has a hot, humid tropical climate. The rainy season lasts from May to January, and the dry season runs from January to May. October and November are typically the wettest months, though you can still catch beautiful, sunny weather even then. The high humidity, while challenging, has its perks – no need to iron anything.

Landing in Panama City at the end of September, I was greeted by heavy rain. The rainy season was in full swing, raising doubts about whether planes could even land in such conditions. The next day passed with equally intense downpours, and I wondered if I’d see a single ray of sunshine in the next two weeks. But the opposite happened – the rain stopped the following day and stayed away for the rest of my trip.

Practical Information

A trip to Panama requires preparation, especially regarding electronics (outlets), currency (US dollars), insurance, and practical items like clothing. Temperatures of 26/30 degrees Celsius with high humidity can be exhausting. If you’re looking for practical information and tips on how to prepare before traveling, check out this post: Panama Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Regarding the trip organization and travel plan, part of my journey was organized by Balaena travel agency. I traveled in a small, intimate group, and it was truly wonderful. If you want to experience and feel Panama and learn more about daily life there, I highly recommend it.

Visit to the Embera Village

I began my journey by visiting the Embera tribe, located in the rainforest of Chagres National Park. There’s no road to the village; the only way is by river, so we hop into a canoe steered by a village resident. His body is adorned with black designs made from jagua dye, which I later learn are used for decoration as well as protection from the sun and insects.

Before reaching the village, we take a trail to a waterfall. We wade slowly through the river, whose water flows over slippery rocks, reaching above our knees in places. The tropical rainforest is intensely humid, with the scent of wet earth and vegetation in the air. At the end, we can swim in the waterfall before returning along the same path to our canoe. We keep an eye out for wildlife: mostly monkeys, birds, and spiders. We head to the village, where a simple lunch awaits: tilapia with plantain. I listen to the history of the Embera, whose ancestors lived in what is now Colombia. Some indigenous residents migrated south, searching for a better life, eventually reaching Panama. In 1984, the land they inhabit was declared a national park, bringing numerous restrictions, including on traditional livelihoods like hunting. As a result, the Embera turned to tourism as a source of income, allowing them to share their culture.

This way, I get to experience the life of Panama’s indigenous residents: wearing traditional attire, making a local tattoo with the mentioned dye, and dancing. I learn that the Embera language is still spoken here, and those wishing to serve in the community must know the local language and have no ties to Panama’s political structures. Returning to the city, I reflect on life in such a community. It may seem idyllic, but it’s also challenging in many ways, such as access to education – children here only have basic schooling in Spanish.

See also: Embera – Visiting the Indigenous People of Central America

Flight to Chitre

The next day, we fly from Panama City to Chitre. The small plane fits 20 lucky passengers, and visibility is perfect: we fly over the Panama Canal, head west, and admire rainforests and the blue Pacific coast. My goal is to explore Panama’s traditions in the Herrera and Los Santos provinces.

Accommodation for the next few days: Hotel Pedasí Nature Paradise

Traditions in Panama

Along with my group, I visit a renowned maker of colorful masks for folk dancers. Every year, José González and his wife create hundreds of masks for various celebrations nationwide, each one unique. The masks are also used during Corpus Christi processions, quite different from those in Poland. We compare our traditions related to this holiday with Panamanians. Although separated by 10,000 kilometers, they have beautiful, colorful carpets similar to those in Spycimierz, Łódź Province, in Poland. However, the procession here takes the form of a dance. Panama’s Corpus Christi celebrations commemorate the Last Supper of Jesus, and one of the most intriguing elements is the “dance of the devils.” During the dance, devils try to claim human souls, but Archangel Michael stands to fight them off.

In the same area, I see how traditional clay pots are made, how drums are crafted, and how bread is baked. I meet many people who are passionate about passing their traditions down through generations. This is not easy nowadays, especially as more people choose to move to the capital each year. That day, in addition to Panamanian cuisine, I try fresh sugarcane juice, almost a guarantee of a stomach upset, but it’s part of the experience.

Isla Iguana

We sail to two very different islands: Isla Iguana and Isla Canas. The first island is a protected area, home to iguanas, as the name suggests, but they aren’t the only residents. There are also crabs and thousands of frigate birds that nest here. With coral reefs and hundreds of colorful fish, we have a paradise-like island, which is completely empty at this time of year. Swimming in the warm ocean is the perfect end to the trip.

More on this in the post: Isla Iguana – Panama’s Tropical Oasis

Isla Canas

The white sand of Isla Iguana provides a stark contrast to the dark shores of Isla Canas. Surrounded on one side by mangrove forests, the island is home to a few hundred people. At a local bar, I have the chance to meet some of them, and in the evening, we’re scheduled for dinner together. However, I have other plans first: kayaking among the mangroves. All around, only the sounds of nature can be heard – birds singing and the gentle splash of paddles. I admire the incredible formations of trees and roots that create a true labyrinth, trying not to think about what wild animals might be swimming nearby; Panama’s nature is wild, and crocodiles and snakes could be anywhere.

Isla Canas is one of the nesting grounds for sea turtles. That evening, we plan to witness the baby turtles’ journey to the ocean. We can see this because, like in the Embera village, tourism brings income to the island’s residents. Thanks to this, they protect the eggs and work to ensure as many turtles as possible reach the ocean.

After dinner, which ended with dancing, we return by boat to the mainland. And although I saw many extraordinary things in Panama, one of my fondest memories will be the starlit sky over Isla Canas.

Visit to Finca Pamel Farm

Panama is a country where traditions are deeply rooted in everyday life, and folk culture is still alive. To learn more, we visited Finca Pamel – a farm where you can stay overnight, milk a cow, enjoy local delicacies, and see how Panama’s traditional hats and shoes are made (and take them home afterward). Another example of Panamanian traditions is the pollera – a traditional outfit that has symbolized Panamanian identity for centuries. This richly adorned, hand-embroidered dress is worn during important holidays and ceremonies.

I had the chance to experience this tradition myself when I was invited to wear a pollera and prepare for one of the local celebrations. Putting on this outfit was like a ritual – each layer of fabric and gold decoration had its place and symbolism, and the final effect was stunning. In short, a woman who usually wears simple clothes transforms into a princess full of grace and elegance.

Link to accommodation at the farm.

Junta de Embarra

On my last day in Pedasi, I had the opportunity to participate in a house-building activity known as “junta de embarra.” The house walls are made from a mixture of earth, mud, and straw. It sounded unbelievable to me, like a relic from the past, but once there, I realized it was more than just a building technique. Traditionally, house-building is an event that brings the whole local community together and becomes a reason for celebration. Everyone has their task – back then, men prepared the building materials, women handled the cooking of traditional dishes, and children learned the building techniques from their elders. On this day, in addition to hard work, there was no shortage of a typical Panamanian fiesta, because here, you simply can’t live without one. An orchestra played, and all the participants danced to the rhythm of local music.

Panama City

It was time to return to the capital. There are more skyscrapers here than in Miami, and the rainforest literally meets the concrete jungle of skyscrapers. Additionally, the historic, UNESCO-listed Casco Viejo adds incredible charm to the city. Some people love this city for its unique atmosphere, while others, overwhelmed by the fast pace of life, escape as soon as they can, looking for peace in more picturesque parts of the country. Either way, Panama City has something that makes it unforgettable.

The country has 4.5 million residents, with 2 million living in the city itself. It’s no surprise that if you drive through the city during rush hour, there’s a high chance of getting stuck in a massive traffic jam. That’s why, on the roads at more critical points, you can buy drinks and snacks from street vendors.

It’s impossible to mention Panama without talking about the Panama Canal, which not only connects the oceans but also shapes the life of the entire country. Since its opening in 1914, the canal has revolutionized global trade, shortening maritime trade routes and contributing to the economic development of this small yet strategically located country. It was under U.S. control for many years but became a symbol of the country’s sovereignty in 1999 when it was placed under Panamanian jurisdiction.

For two weeks, Panama revealed its stories to me. And during my last walk through Casco Viejo, it revealed one final story. I was accompanied by Melquiades, who was born in the capital. He spoke about history, the construction of the Panama Canal, everyday life, and the U.S. invasion of Panama. He recalled that at the time, he lived with his sister in Miami:

We watched the entire invasion live on television. It was probably the most terrifying night of my life because my parents were here in Panama. Near our home were Noriega’s barracks, and that area was heavily bombed. We didn’t know if our parents were alive because American forces had cut off all forms of communication. My father worked at the country’s first television station, so when American forces arrived, they took the entire staff from that station to a nearby hotel. My mother was alone at home, and they didn’t see each other for a whole week. Only after about a week did we finally find out that they were safe.

The topic of the invasion remains unresolved, primarily because there was never, and still isn’t, an official list of civilian casualties. The number of people who died during the invasion is still unknown to this day. As a result, many Panamanians continue to seek compensation for the loss of loved ones, as well as for destroyed homes and property. This is another, sadder, less touristy side of this country.

See also: What to See in Panama City? Top Sights and Attractions

Reflecting on all this, on the way to the airport, I take one last look at the traffic-clogged city during rush hour. Although this year I visited far more demanding destinations, such as Pakistan, I didn’t expect Panama to so profoundly change my perspective on the world around me and make me so eager to return for more.

Special thanks to the Panama Tourism Authority & Adventure Travel Trade Association for inviting me to Panama.

The post What to See in Panama? My Travel Plan appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

About how diverse the world can be, you can discover in many corners of the globe. One of them is Panama, located in Central America. Here, just 35 kilometers separate the skyscraper-filled capital from a village deep in the jungle, practically cut off from civilization. The first part of the route is traveled by car, and the next by river. There’s no direct road to the village inhabited by the Embera people, so I hop into a canoe led by one of the locals. We are in an extraordinary place – the rainforest of Chagres National Park.

Embera – Who Are They?

The Embera are river people who have been building homes along riverbanks for centuries. Their population is around 240,000 people, most of whom live in Colombia, where the history of this tribe begins. Part of the population emigrated south at the end of the 18th century in search of better living conditions, eventually reaching Panama. Today, their population in Panama is about 30,000.

I arrived at a place on the banks of the Chagres River where a few of these traditional villages, including Parará Purú, are located. This is one of the few places where old traditions are still cultivated, and the Embera language is spoken. Speaking of language, the Embera people also speak Spanish, as the Panamanian government provides education in this language.

The History of Embera in Panama

In 1984, the area where the Embera community settled was declared a national park and an indigenous reserve. However, this decision brought many restrictions. Tribe members were required to follow strict rules, such as a ban on cutting trees, restrictions on fishing, and a complete hunting ban. The rules for plant cultivation also changed. This situation forced them to look for new ways of living and adapt to a new reality.

One of the sources of income became tourism. The Embera began welcoming visitors, sharing their culture, traditions, and way of life. Tourism not only provided them with a source of income but also an opportunity to spread awareness about their tribe and history.

Despite these changes, the Embera remained faithful to their traditions. Their language, Embera, is still spoken and taught to younger generations, preserving cultural heritage. Traditional crafts, such as weaving and jewelry making, have also stood the test of time, with their colorful, handmade products appreciated by tourists and in the broader cultural context. When visiting, it’s good to know that each stall is run by a different family, meaning that income from handicrafts is not shared among all village residents.

Visit to the Village

We started our trip to the Embera village with a trek toward the waterfall. We walked along the Chagres River, the largest river in the Panama Canal basin. In 1502, Christopher Columbus named it the “river of crocodiles.” Luckily, I didn’t see any crocodiles in Río de los Lagartos, but the journey was rich in other wildlife: sloths, various birds, and colorful butterflies.

Our guide docked the boat, and we continued by walking in the river, which at times reached above my knees. The route isn’t very challenging, but there were harder moments, like crossing rocks taller than us. It was also slippery at times, but the route is magical, especially for water-walking enthusiasts like me. At the end, we can swim in the waterfall and return by canoe, which takes us back to Parará Purú village.

A meeting with the Embera tribe is an extraordinary opportunity to learn about their traditions and culture. Their colorful, traditional attire and handmade ornaments are captivating. During the visit, not only can we observe and listen to how life is in a traditional community, but we also have the chance to ask questions on any topic. There are no taboo subjects; you can learn practically anything.

However, the true magic of this place lies in the rituals and traditions that are still alive within the community. Visitors can experience aspects of Embera life – creating “tattoos” and traditional dances accompanied by songs and drums. This is a show of community strength and connection with nature. The “tattoos” are somewhat like henna – the jagua dye is used for decoration, sun protection, or insect repellent. Interestingly, in the community, when a baby is born, specifically at eight days old, they paint the whole body with jagua dye. This symbolizes rebirth and, interestingly, serves a practical purpose. When this is done while the baby is very young, body hair doesn’t grow later. That’s why tribe members have such smooth skin.

During the village visit, there’s a chance for lunch – tilapia fish with plantains. I also had the opportunity to wear traditional Embera attire – an interesting experience; I could wear it around Panama.

Embera Location

Rivers have played and still play a crucial role in the life of the tribe, providing food (fish) and allowing for transport, bathing, and other daily activities. Canoes were an important element of Embera culture and rituals. Especially in the past, canoe building was a significant skill, often seen as a men’s ritual.

Although today some Embera live in different places, many of their villages are still located by rivers. Statistics show that about 25% live in urban districts of Panama City.

How the Embera Live

Traditional Embera houses are open buildings on stilts, with thatched roofs and palm bark floors. Today, homes are often smaller, with wooden floors and tin roofs. Walls for privacy have also appeared, and traditional fire pits have been replaced by gas stoves. Some Embera also live in modern concrete houses.

 A visit to this isolated corner of the world is more than a typical tourist experience; it’s a chance to glimpse the lives of indigenous people whose daily lives are based on harmony with nature and traditions passed down through generations. When visiting this place, remember that thanks to tourism, they can live here and still cultivate their traditions. Otherwise, it would be challenging to maintain them.

My trip was organized by Balaena. If you want to explore and feel Panama, I highly recommend it. https://balaena.travel/panama/

Going to Panama? Check out these posts:

What to See in Panama City? Top Sights and Attractions

Panama Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Isla Iguana – Panama’s Tropical Oasis

Special thanks to the Panamanian Tourism Organization & Adventure Travel Trade Association for the invitation to Panama.

The post Embera – Visiting the Indigenous People of Central America appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

Panama City is the capital of Panama, located on the Pacific Ocean coast. It has a population of 2 million residents, which is almost half of the entire country’s population.

What to see in the capital of Panama? I’ll start by saying that anyone who hasn’t seen the capital of Panama will be surprised by its diversity. This may sound mundane, but in Panama City, a real jungle literally meets the concrete forest of skyscrapers. Right next to the skyscrapers, we can admire the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Town, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

There are plenty of attractions, and this city is diverse in many other ways. It is a place where different cultures collide. During my travels, I had the opportunity to meet both “ordinary” Panamanians, immigrants from around the world, and the indigenous people of Panama.

I invite you to explore Panama City – I hope you will like this city as much as I do.

Casco Viejo

Exploring Panama City is worth starting from the Old Town, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, known as Casco Viejo (also known as Casco Antiguo and San Felipe). Its narrow streets are filled primarily with colorful buildings, like from a postcard. Adding to this are vibrant squares where you can watch local artists and craftsmen at work, the most distinctive of whom are the Kuna Indians, dressed in colorful traditional costumes, giving us a unique opportunity to admire the extraordinary atmosphere of Panama City.

Casco Antiguo was founded in 1673, and the layout of the city resembles a grid, surrounded by thick walls to defend against pirates. The current layout comes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, combining colonial style with neoclassical and art deco. The Old Town has four main squares: Plaza de la Independencia, Plaza Bolívar, Plaza Herrera, and Plaza de Francia, commemorating the French pioneers of the Panama Canal. There are also preserved religious monuments, such as the San José Church with its golden altar and the La Merced Church. It’s also worth noting the ruins of the Jesuit monastery and the Santo Domingo monastery, as their ruins add character to Casco Viejo while attesting to the rich and often difficult history of the city.

Panama Canal

The city is primarily associated with the Panama Canal. It’s no wonder, as the Panama Canal is one of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century. An achievement that forever changed global shipping routes. This artificial canal, over 80 kilometers long, connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific.

In May 1879, Ferdinand de Lesseps, the creator of the Suez Canal, presented the project for a canal connecting the Atlantic with the Pacific through Panama, which was accepted. A company was formed, and just two years later, work began, but numerous difficulties were encountered, including uneven terrain and epidemics (of malaria and yellow fever). Despite changes to the project, including the addition of locks, costs rose, and a corruption scandal surrounding the company’s financing in 1888 led to the halting of construction and the collapse of the “French Canal.”

At that point, the construction of the Panama Canal was taken over by engineer Philippe-Jean Bunau-Varilla, who continued work according to Gustave Eiffel’s design. Struggling with a lack of funds, Bunau-Varilla turned to the US government, offering them rights to exploit the canal and control over the adjacent area. This move allowed Americans to complete the construction.

This is really just the beginning, presented in a very brief overview when it comes to the Panama Canal. The history is incredibly fascinating, and to delve deeper into it, it’s worth visiting the Panama Canal Museum and the Miraflores Visitor Center.

Museums in Panama City

Panama City has many museums, so if you enjoy exploring, you definitely won’t be bored here. I’ll list some of them below; surely everyone will find something for themselves: nature, history, amazing constructions, gold… In my opinion, you need to explore for at least a few days to see at least half of them, and it’s worth noting that museums are closed on Mondays.

• Museo del Canal Interoceánico de Panamá – The Panama Canal Museum offers insight into the history of the canal’s construction and its significance for global trade.
• Museo de la Historia de Panamá – The Museum dedicated to the history of Panama, from pre-Columbian times to the present, with a rich collection of exhibits.
• Museo del Oro – The Gold Museum, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
• Museo de Ciencias Naturales – The Natural Science Museum, which presents the diversity of Panama’s flora and fauna and issues related to ecology.
• Museo de la Biodiversidad – The Museum dedicated to the biodiversity of the region.
• Museo de la Ciudad – The City Museum, which documents the development of Panama City and its culture over the years.
• Museo de la Revolución – A museum showcasing the history of the Panamanian revolution and the struggle for independence.

Panama Rainforest Discovery Center

This place is a true paradise for those wanting to get closer to nature and feel the unique climate of the rainforest. Nature in Panama is definitely the most impressive. You can feel like you’re in a nature documentary – I’m not exaggerating!

The Rainforest Discovery Center is located outside Panama City and has several main points of interest. First, there is a designated educational trail through the forest, 1.1 km long. Along the way, there are two resting spots, one of which is by the shore of Lake Calamito, where you can spot waterfowl often hidden in the bushes. The paths are really well-prepared, and the hike is pleasant.

The second spot is the Hummingbird Sanctuary. Here, you can almost be certain that hummingbirds will appear. There are 15 species present, although not all are available year-round. The next point is an observation tower, 32 meters high, allowing you to admire the rainforest from every level. Initially, I didn’t want to go up there at all; that was my plan, but luckily I managed to climb up thanks to a friend. I panicked, cried, and then laughed about it, and honestly, it was worth it! Besides admiring the layers of the forest, bats were flying in the background, monkeys were running around, and we could observe all of it from the perfect distance.

You really need to keep your eyes peeled in this place, as spotting animals on your own is much more difficult, especially if you’re not familiar with the local conditions. Therefore, it’s worth going with a group or on an organized tour.

Amador Causeway

Today, the causeway is one of the most visited places in Panama, ideal for walking and relaxing. It offers a beautiful view of the city skyline and the ships waiting their turn to pass through the canal.

The Amador Causeway connects the city with four islands: Naos, Perico, Culebra, and Flamenco. It was built in 1913 from stones excavated during the most challenging section of the Panama Canal construction.

This place was once part of the American military complex, Fort Amador, which was established to defend the Panama Canal. Today, remnants of the old military installations can still be seen on the islands, although their role is now completely different.

Here, you can find many bars, restaurants, and cafes serving local and international dishes. The island is home to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, where you can see interesting exhibits. It’s worth taking your time here; you can also rent a bike and explore the area!

Poin Panama

If you’re looking for excitement in Panama City, Poin Panama is the perfect place. From a height of 152 meters, you can enjoy incredible views of the city. Additionally, you can stand on a glass observation point and watch cars passing beneath your feet.

I personally visited two of the viewpoints and the VR museum. But that’s not all, as the biggest thrill comes from the zip line. There’s also a swing at the top of the building.

What else to see in Panama City?

Of course, these are not all the attractions in Panama City. It’s challenging to see everything, let alone fit it all into one entry, as there is incredible nature, history, and architecture here. One place worth visiting is the Metropolitan National Park—a rainforest within the city. I didn’t have time to hike to the top, although I’ve heard that the views are truly magnificent. If you’re in Panama, remember this place.

What to do around Panama? The first answer to that question would be to travel to paradise islands, especially Monkey Island. This is the most popular choice, and you probably already have such trips planned. So I have something completely different to recommend.

Visiting the Embera Tribe

Located just 35 km from Panama City, the village of Parará Purú is one of the places that particularly stood out to me. Although the distance doesn’t seem large, getting there is not so easy—you need transport to the riverbank, and from that point, you’ll need a boat and a local guide, as there is no other way to get there. The village lies along the Chagres River, which Columbus named the “river of crocodiles” for good reason. Fortunately, we didn’t encounter any crocodiles, but we had the chance to see other animals, such as sloths, colorful birds, and butterflies.

During my visit to Parará Purú, I was particularly fascinated by the rituals and traditions of the Embera tribe. I witnessed their traditional dances and learned about the custom of body painting with jagua dye, which protects against the sun and insects. Interestingly, they even paint newborns to prevent body hair from growing in the future. Our visit concluded with a local meal—tilapia served with plantains—and the opportunity to wear traditional Embera clothing. The colors of their garments and the handmade ornaments are simply amazing.

Where to eat in Panama City?

In the capital, I visited several places worth checking out in Panama City when it comes to food. All were recommended by my Panamanian friends, so there was no chance anything would be wrong.

Bocao507 – This is a true gem for seafood lovers. They serve fresh and delicious dishes that will surely satisfy even the most discerning palates. We ordered a selection of several dishes, and everything was delicious, but the best was Guacho de Mariscos, which is a Panamanian seafood stew. It was probably the best dish I had during my two weeks in Panama.

Tantalo – A lovely place for dinner, followed by relaxation with a drink. The restaurant has a rooftop bar where you can enjoy wonderful views of the city. I recommend the ceviche, mini burgers, and…

Diabolicos – A great option for lunch with Panamanian cuisine. A bonus for the decor, as the place is interestingly adorned with traditional Panamanian masks.

Poin Panama – This spot has several bars and eateries; it’s a good place for ceviche and beer with a view of the city. A more touristy spot, worth visiting while at Poin Panama.

Where to stay in Panama City?

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Panama City, it’s worth considering various options. Here are some hotels I’ve checked in Panama City:

Westin Playa Bonita – I recommend it for its beautiful view and beach, an ideal place to relax away from the hustle and bustle. However, this hotel is located about 20 minutes outside the city, and during peak hours, the commute can take significantly longer.

Crowne Plaza Panama Airport, IHG Hotel – Great location close to the airport, ideal for a short stay before or after a flight.

Hotel El Panama By Faranda – Conveniently located, especially if you plan a local flight, e.g., to Chitre.

However, if you plan to do intensive sightseeing in the city and enjoy its nightlife, the best choice for accommodation would be Casco Viejo—the historic district of Panama City. Here you will find many restaurants, bars, and landmarks, and you won’t waste time and money on transportation.

Transportation in Panama City

When it comes to traveling around Panama City, it’s worth planning in advance what you want to see and calculating the costs and travel times. I’ll start with the latter because the traffic in Panama City can be brutal. The same stretch can take us anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour or even two hours. Much depends on the time, month, and even the day; for example, after payday, people tend to drive to work in their cars more often, while before payday, carpooling is more popular. Why do I mention this? If you’re heading to Panama City for a few days, these commutes may take more time than it seems at first glance, so it’s worth planning your accommodation accordingly.

When planning a trip around Panama City, we have various means of transport at our disposal. We can use public transport, including the metro, as well as order taxis or use Uber. Personally, I have used Uber multiple times in the city and was satisfied with the quality of service. Fares start at $8, but keep in mind that they can increase significantly in case of traffic. My rides ranged from $10 to $25 for similar routes, and the final price mainly depended on peak hours. Not everyone knows that Uber increases the fare during the ride if it takes longer than initially estimated, so that’s also something to consider.

How much time to spend in Panama City?

In reality, there’s no single answer to that. Some may think that two days in Panama City is enough for sightseeing, while others might find it too little even for a week. Museums, Casco Viejo, the Panama Canal, modern skyscrapers, diverse food, vibrant nightlife streets, and the rainforest located within the city limits—this is just a part of the attractions.

I explored Casco Viejo only on the last day of my stay with a friend who grew up in Panama City. During the walk, besides learning about the history, architecture, and peeking into lesser-known attractions, I could learn about daily life, salaries, and the city’s secrets. I particularly recommend such sightseeing, as I will remember the little details from this trip the most, which are hard to describe in a post about tourist attractions. Therefore, if you’re heading to Panama City and want to learn about local customs, history, or just want to better understand the city and country, it’s worth finding a local guide.

See also:

Panama Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Isla Iguana – Panama’s Tropical Oasis

The post What to See in Panama City? Top Sights and Attractions appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

During my trip to Panama, I had the chance to visit many beautiful places. One of the more extraordinary ones was Isla Iguana. This picturesque island is located in the Panamanian province of Los Santos. It’s less than 5 kilometers from the coast, so getting there isn’t particularly difficult.

It’s not just an ordinary island, it’s a protected area with unique fauna and flora. Thanks to this, the island is a real paradise for wildlife lovers, divers, and beachgoers.

How to Get to Isla Iguana?

Trips to Isla Iguana start in the town of Pedasí, specifically at Playa Arenal. An alternative is to depart from the nearby town of Mariabe, where the crossing from Playa El Rincon to the island is a bit shorter. Personally, I used this option, and the journey is an experience, especially when you have the chance to see dolphins (bottlenose and spotted) or whales. More specifically, from June to October, whales migrate here to give birth and teach their young to swim around the island.

Nature and Wildlife on Isla Iguana

The island is famous for its abundant wildlife. It is home to one of the largest coral reefs in the Pacific, with 17 species of corals and 347 species of fish. The island is covered by a dry tropical forest, inhabited by crabs, black and green iguanas, as well as boa constrictors (though I didn’t see any). Furthermore, Isla Iguana is home to thousands of frigate birds, with a population of at least 5,000 birds circling above the island.

Isla Iguana is also one of the most important nesting sites for sea turtles. During the season between April and September, you can see five species of turtles that lay their eggs on the beaches.

What to Do on the Island?

I’ll start with what not to do. The island is guarded by rangers who check what you bring with you. Bringing and consuming alcohol or carrying glass is prohibited. Such items will be confiscated by the rangers. Of course, you must take all the trash you “produce” with you.

The island is small enough that you can walk around it with ease. There are two beaches on the island. The first, the main beach El Cirial, is a popular spot for relaxation. The second beach, El Faro, is more exposed, and you won’t find any shade there, so if you plan to spend time there, it’s worth bringing an umbrella to shield yourself from the sun. On the first beach, finding shade is easier, especially on weekdays when you can often have the beach almost to yourself.

Remember, there are no shops on the island, so it’s worth bringing plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe. Sunscreens with chemical UV filters (like benzophenone-3) harm and can even kill coral reefs.

The History of Isla Iguana

Today, Isla Iguana is a must-see for anyone looking to experience Panama’s wild nature. In 1981, the island was declared a protected area, but during World War II, the U.S. Army used the island as a bombing test site. Although most of the bombs were removed in the 1990s, it’s still recommended to stay on the trails. You never know if all the unexploded bombs have been removed.

Where to Stay on Isla Iguana?

There are no hotels on Isla Iguana, and the island is uninhabited. If you plan to visit, it’s worth considering staying in the nearby town of Pedasi. Personally, I stayed at Hotel Pedasí Nature Paradise. I recommend it for its comfort and delicious breakfasts.

Why Visit Isla Iguana?

Above all, it’s the perfect place for those seeking closeness to nature – from white sandy beaches to colorful coral reefs, to majestic frigates and migrating whales. Everyone who visits Isla Iguana leaves with memories of exotic animals and the island’s unique history.

Special thanks to the Panama Tourism Authority & Adventure Travel Trade Association for the invitation to Panama.

See also:

Panama Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go

The post Isla Iguana – Panama’s Tropical Oasis appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.

If you’re thinking about a trip to Panama and are looking for information to help you plan, you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll try to introduce you to this small country located in Central America. I’ll talk about what you should know before going, how to prepare, and the best time to visit. I’ll start with the latter because I believe it’s a key topic.

What should you know about Panama?

Before traveling to Panama, there are a few things you should be aware of. Although Panama has its own currency (the Balboa), payments are made in US dollars (USD). The exchange rate is simple: 1 dollar equals 1 Balboa. Interestingly, the dollar has been used as the local currency since 1904, while the Balboa only exists as coins. Panama also shares some similarities with the United States. For example, you’ll need an adapter (the outlets are the same as in the USA, type A), and temperatures are given in Fahrenheit. The official language is Spanish, and while you can get by with English, it won’t be everywhere. Even if someone didn’t speak English and I didn’t know Spanish, we always managed to understand each other. Make sure to buy insurance—this is really important.

When to fly to Panama? Weather and climate in Panama

Although my trip to Panama took place at the end of September and beginning of October, this won’t be the ideal time for everyone. Why? There are two seasons in Panama: dry from December to April and rainy from May to November. The dry season, as the name suggests, is supposed to be dry and sunny.

And what about the rainy season? It doesn’t rain constantly, but it can happen. To put it into perspective, while the highest monthly rainfall in Poland is 84 liters/m², in Panama it can reach up to 245 liters/m². Rainfall levels of around 200 persist throughout the rainy season. During my trip, it rained heavily for the first two days, though it was still warm (25-30 degrees). The next 10 days were dry, with only a brief drizzle. Besides the rain, the air is also very humid. Regardless of the time of year, a strong sunscreen is essential, even on cloudy days.

A definite advantage of visiting during the rainy season is the bird migrations, especially birds of prey, that pass over Panama. In Panama City, they even count the birds, as birds of prey fly close to the coast.

Electricity in Panama

It’s good to know that Panama uses American-type outlets (type A in most places), so bring an adapter if your devices have different plugs.

Flight to Panama and time difference

The time difference is -7/8 hours, so if you have a busy trip planned, it’s worth considering an extra day to adjust. Currently, there are no direct flights from Poland to Panama, and to be honest, my body struggled a bit, not only due to the time change but also the long transfer. It took 11 hours to fly from Amsterdam to Panama City, plus an earlier flight from Wrocław, which with the layover took 7 hours. In total, I traveled for 22 hours, and when I arrived at my hotel at 6 PM Panama time, I slept until 6 AM. In terms of convenient connections, my quickest option was KLM, but the return was less lucky, as I had a 10-hour layover. A flight to Kraków would have been faster, but I found out after I had already booked the tickets. If you, like me, have a long layover in Amsterdam, I recommend getting access to the KLM Crown Lounge—time flies better there than at the airport.

Visa to Panama

You’ll need a passport to travel to Panama. Fortunately, there is a visa-free agreement between Poland and Panama. There’s no entry fee, but you’ll go through passport control upon arrival, where I was asked where I’d be staying and how many days I’d be in Panama. I only knew two hotels, as I had several locations planned, but I gave one address and that was fine. You’ll also need to fill out a customs form (either online or on paper, which is distributed on the plane).

Internet in Panama

What surprised me upon arriving in Panama was the lack of signal. I could call or text using my original SIM card, but the internet was weak in some places. Since I traveled to more remote areas, there were times when I had no internet at all.

Although many Polish operators have introduced cheaper internet rates outside the EU, including mine, I chose to buy an esim card in Panama. Why? Not only because of the cost but also because of how data usage is calculated. When I use my operator’s internet, the data gets used up very quickly, but with an esim card, it lasts up to twice as long. This time I chose GoMoWorld, as it was affordable, and during the whole trip, I used about 8 GB (I also used WiFi at hotels).

Accommodation in Panama

You can easily book accommodation in Panama through booking.com, and Airbnb also works. The cost depends on the location. Hotels in Panama City start at $80/night with breakfast. I stayed at three places in the capital, which I’ll link below. I also traveled around the country, visiting islands, indigenous communities, and beautiful natural spots. I’ll share my travel itinerary in the next post, along with recommended accommodations I tried and liked.

Hotels in Panama City

– Westin Playa Bonita – I recommend this for the beautiful view and beach, though it’s far from the city (20 minutes outside peak hours, much longer during rush hours)

– Crowne Plaza Panama Airport, IHG Hotel – close to the airport, perfect if you need a place to rest before/after your flight

– Hotel El Panama By Faranda – great location for the airport, from which we flew to Chitré.

Transport in Panama

When planning your trip around the city, you can use public transport (including the metro), take taxis, or use Uber. I used Uber several times in Panama City, and the quality was just fine. As for prices, rides can cost $8, but keep in mind that during traffic, the price can go up significantly. So, my trips ranged from $10 to $25 for similar routes, depending on rush hour.

For travel around Panama, you can rent a car (a popular option used by my friends), rely on buses, or fly (there are many small airports in Panama, so you can reach several destinations by air). Flights are much faster than driving. For example, the flight from Panama City to Chitré took about 40 minutes, while the same route by land would take around 4 hours. I recommend booking tours with local travel agencies if you want competent service. I traveled with Balaena for 6 days and learned a lot about Panama (in English, though they also speak Spanish).

What to pack for Panama?

The temperature in Panama stays nearly the same year-round. The only difference is the dry and rainy seasons, as mentioned earlier. During the rainy season, which I experienced, the humidity was very high. Even if the temperature was 25°C, it felt much hotter. Clothes suitable for 25°C in Europe weren’t ideal for Panama. Only lightweight and airy clothing worked, though it was still very hot. Hiking in the rainforest and climbing the lookout tower felt like entering a steam sauna. It was quite an interesting experience, to be honest.

Panama – what should you know?

If you’re looking for breathtaking beaches, colorful islands, or untouched nature, then Panama is definitely for you. It is a country worth discovering and exploring in depth. In my next posts, I’ll share more details about where I traveled and some personal recommendations on what to do and where to stay during your visit. Stay tuned!

Honestly, my two weeks flew by like a single day, and as I was leaving for Poland, I wondered if I would ever return. My trip was so wonderful that I personally envy anyone who gets to experience it for themselves.

A heartfelt thank you to the Panama Tourism Authority & Adventure Travel Trade Association for the invitation to Panama.

See also: Isla Iguana – Panama’s Tropical Oasis

The post Panama Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go appeared first on Where Is Evelyn.