Everything you need to know for Panama
Geographical position and Climate of Panama
Panama is strategically located on the isthmus connecting North and South America. It is bordered by Costa Rica to the northwest, Colombia to the southeast, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south.
The country has a tropical maritime climate with a hot, humid, and rainy season from May to December and a short dry season from January to April. Due to its proximity to the equator, Panama experiences little variation in temperature throughout the year, with average temperatures consistently around 27°C (81°F).
Brief History of Panama
The history of the country is rich and diverse. Before the arrival of Europeans, the area was inhabited by various indigenous groups. In 1501, Rodrigo de Bastidas was the first European to explore the region. Later, in 1513, Vasco Núñez de Balboa crossed the Isthmus of Panama to reach the Pacific Ocean, which was a significant milestone in the era of exploration.
Panama became part of the Spanish Empire and was used as a crossing point for gold and treasures from the New World to Spain. The city of Panama, founded in 1519, was the first European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas.
After several centuries under Spanish rule, the country sought independence which it achieved in 1821, initially joining the Republic of Gran Colombia. In 1903, with support from the United States, Panama seceded from Colombia and signed a treaty allowing for the construction of the Panama Canal, which was completed in 1914 and revolutionized maritime trade by providing a shortcut between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Throughout the 20th century, the country experienced periods of political turmoil and military dictatorships. The country returned to civilian rule in 1989 following the US invasion that deposed military leader Manuel Noriega.
Today, Panama is known for its booming economy, driven largely by the canal, banking, commerce, and tourism industries, and has one of the fastest-growing economies in Central America.
Religion
The predominant religion in the country is Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination. A significant portion of the population adheres to Protestantism, including various evangelical and Pentecostal churches. Additionally, there are smaller communities of other faiths, such as Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Baha’i, reflecting Panama’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Language
The official language in the country is Spanish, which is spoken by the majority of the population. However, due to its diverse cultural heritage, several indigenous languages are also spoken, including Ngäbere, Buglere, Kuna, Emberá, Wounaan, Naso Tjerdi, and Bribri. English is widely used in business and tourism sectors, and many Panamanians are bilingual.
Panama is a vibrant tourist destination known for its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and cultural diversity. Key attractions include the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that offers canal transits and museum exhibits. The country’s capital, Panama City, blends modern skyscrapers with the historic Casco Viejo district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Adventure activities such as snorkeling, diving, surfing, and fishing are popular, while the highland region of Boquete is renowned for coffee plantations and cooler climates ideal for mountain trekking. Panamanian culture, with its festivals, music, dance, and cuisine, provides an immersive experience for visitors seeking a blend of historical and contemporary Latin American life.
Places You Must Visit in Panama
- Panama Canal
- Panama City
- Bocas del Toro
- San Blas Islands
- Boquete
- Soberanía National Park
- Coiba National Park
- El Valle de Antón
- The Pearl Islands (Las Perlas Archipelago)
Before you visit Panama
Travel to Panama
Travelers can get to the country primarily by air, arriving at Tocumen International Airport (PTY), which is the country’s main international gateway located near Panama City. This airport serves numerous airlines offering direct flights from various cities in North, Central, and South America, as well as some European destinations.
For those in Central or South America, regional flights, as well as buses, are available for entry into Panama. The Pan-American Highway also allows for overland travel from neighboring countries, although the Darién Gap between Panama and Colombia remains impassable by road.
Cruises are another option, as the country is a popular stop for cruises traveling through the Caribbean or those making the transit through the Panama Canal.
Once in Panama, domestic flights, buses, rental cars, and boats provide transportation to various destinations within the country.
Visas for Panama
Visa requirements for the country vary depending on the traveler’s nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. Many tourists from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European nations do not require a visa for stays of up to 180 days for tourism purposes.
Travelers should have a passport valid for at least three months beyond their date of departure from the country. Upon arrival, they may also need to provide proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay.
Nationals from other countries may need to apply for a tourist visa in advance at a Panamanian consulate or embassy. It is essential to check the latest visa requirements with official sources or the nearest Panamanian diplomatic mission before planning a trip to Panama.
Best time to visit Panama
The best time to visit the country is typically during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to April. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring national parks, beaches, and historical sites.
This period also coincides with several popular festivals and events, including the vibrant Panama Carnival, usually held in February or March before Lent. However, it’s worth noting that this peak tourist season may also mean higher prices and more crowded attractions.
For those interested in bird watching or eco-tourism, the transition months at the beginning and end of the rainy season (May and November) can be advantageous, as the rainforest is lush and wildlife is abundant. Travelers seeking fewer crowds and potentially lower rates might consider visiting during the wetter months, keeping in mind that afternoon rains are common but can be brief.
Important Information
Capital – Panama City
Territory – 75,417 km2
Currency – Balboa (PAB)
Time Zone – UTC-5 (EST)
Population – 4,337,768
Demonym – Panamanian