Places to Visit in Panamá

The most populous area of Panamá lies in the eastern part of the country. Panama City, the vibrant capital of the country in the similarly named Panama Province, is the hub for the region and the gateway to everything in the country. This metropolitan city is where feats of technology, like the Panama Canal and dozens of skyscrapers, exist right alongside dazzling displays of nature—after all, Panama City is the only capital in the world with a tropical rainforest and a wonder of the modern world within its city limits, plus two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

From the capital, you can find access to the jungles of the Darien Province to the east, as well as the popular beach resort areas of Panamá Oeste and Riviera Pacifica further west along the PanAmerican highway. It’s also possible from here to easily visit the Caribbean coast and experience the early history of Panamá in the city of Colon, visit the indigenous communities in the San Blas islands, and witness some of the most breathtaking views of the Caribbean.

Heading to the central area of Panamá, the Cocle Province is just west of Panamá Oeste. With miles of secluded sandy beaches and quaint small mountain towns worth exploring, Cocle is an excellent spot for ecotourism.

The Herrera Province is a low-key destination with its own charm. Its largest city, Chitré, is the shopping hub for the region. The small, nearby town of La Arena is well-known as the artisan center of Panamá where you can step back in time to witness pottery makers, woodcarvers, and even bakers preparing bread and traditional treats.

Within the Los Santos Province you’ll find the small town of Las Tablas, a hotspot to be at during Carnival each year. At the tip of the Azuero Peninsula lies the small picture-perfect town of Pedasi where the eateries, accommodations, quiet beaches, and nearby surfing beach, Playa Venao, attract international visitors every year.

The province of Veraguas is the only Panamanian Province that borders both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. Not to be missed here is Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts 38 islands filled with marine life. The village of Santa Catalina is known worldwide as a surfing haven. You’ll also find the small quiet town of Santa Fe in Veraguas that is popular for waterfall hunting. This mountain region has become a backpacking retreat for those seeking a quiet way to experience Panamanian life.

On the western side of Panamá lies the province of Chiriquí, one of the most accessible provinces in the country. Small villages and towns dot the highlands down to the lowlands. David is the province’s capital and second-largest city in the country. Half an hour towards the highlands is the picturesque town of Boquete, the area's cultural center offering fine dining and all things adventure.

Volcan Baru, Panamá’s only volcano, lies in this province and its majesty shadows the valleys below. The Gulf of Chiriquí is a designated national marine park where you can snorkel along coral reefs or go for a secluded hike.

And last but certainly not least is Bocas Del Toro, a province in the Caribbean consisting partially of the mainland and nine islands. It is the most popular destination in Panamá thanks to the tropical island life it offers with easy access to breathtaking beaches. Bocas, as it is affectionately termed, has a Caribbean vibe all its own that you simply must experience. Make it a point to view wildlife at places like Starfish Beach, Nivida Bat Cave, and San San Pond Sak; and you also must try the delicious Afro-Caribbean cuisine and take part in the thriving nightlife.

With a wide variety of places to visit in Panamá, you can seek out the spots that appeal to you and find unexpected surprises along the way.