Panama is a central point between Central and South America, a melting point of cultures, and people with a super-rich history. The city offers various activities to cater to all interests, from the canals to wildlife and an incredible variety of food.
I spent 48 hours in Panama while travelling through Central and South America. Here’s my top 5 ways I’d recommend on how to spend your time there…
See the Panama Canal locks in action!
The Panama Canal is a miracle of engineering and has revolutionised the way we are able to trade and transport goods worldwide. There are many points along the canal where you are able to view the locks in action. Using the power of water to lift boats from sea level up into the canal. The Miraflores centre has a museum attached and a large cinematic experience to explain the construction, history and current-day operation of the canal. This was definitely a highlight of our time in Panama. I would recommend looking up times when boats are passing these locks for the full experience.
Explore the Fish Market
The fish market is the perfect way to explore the variety of rich seafood available in this area. The wet market displays many an incredible variety of fish, crustaceans, octopus and squid. Outside of the wet market, there are plenty of vendors selling meals cooked with the fresh seafood available inside, You can not get ceviche any fresher than this. The music creates a lively atmosphere, which amplifies the food’s flavours influenced by Panamanian culture’s diverse background. I enjoyed Caribbean-style prawns in a spicy coconut sauce. We also ordered a traditional dish, which involved a full fried fish. Definitely a different way to immerse yourself in the cultural melting pot of Panama through food
Take a walk through the old Spanish town – Casa Viejo
The old Spanish colonial town of Casco Viejo offers traditional Spanish-style buildings from the 1800s era of control from the Spanish. The town is full of rich history as Panama has been controlled by a variety of different nations throughout history and has only gained independence recently as of 1970. The strategic importance of Panama and the canal informs multiple wars and trade agreements. A walking tour through Panama explains the significance of the Spanish history. My favourite part of partaking in walking tours as they are most often free or pay what you can making them the most affordable way to hear the history and local stories of any city you visit.
Rooftop bar
Grab a drink at a rooftop bar
Get a drink at a rooftop bar to appreciate the city from another point of view. There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the old town area. Selina rooftop bar offers spectacular 360 ° views, incredible atmosphere and is the place to be on a Saturday night. Many DJS play by the rooftop pool and it is free entry.
Immerse yourself on an island
Depending on how much time you have to spend in Panama, a day trip across to one of the many islands along the coastline showcases the beauty and nature Panama has to offer. For shorter day trips, Sloth Island would be a great option. For those with more flexible travel plans or timelines, a 4-day cruise through the San Blas islands is the most incredible experience. Travelling through the Kuna Yala nation, the San Blas islands are a collection of islands that are home to the Guna people who still live a traditional life. San Blas Adventures provided the most incredible trip from Panama to Carpugana along the northern border of Colombia and invited us to be immersed in the traditional culture against a jaw-dropping background of the most picturesque islands you’ve ever seen.
