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Discover the wonders of Panama beyond the vibrant streets of Casco Viejo, both within the city and in the serene countryside. This guide doesn't follow any specific order of preference but highlights the beauty that awaits. From the iconic Panama City skyline to the tranquility of the countryside, explore the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that make Panama a captivating destination.
Panama Canal - Miraflores Locks
Explore the wonders of Panama just a 10-minute Uber ride away from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana, starting with the awe-inspiring Panama Canal. A must-visit engineering marvel, the canal offers an incredible experience at the Miraflores Locks. For optimal views, consider visiting after 2 pm when ships navigate through the locks—be sure to check the schedule. Immerse yourself in the canal's history and significance at the Miraflores Visitor Center. To complement your journey, venture back to Casco Viejo and explore the Panama Canal Museum, offering a more comprehensive historical perspective. This dual experience promises an enriching exploration of Panama's iconic landmark and its captivating past.
Aguas Claras Locks in Colon
Unlike the Miraflores Locks, Agua Claras is renowned for accommodating larger vessels, showcasing the canal's adaptability to varying ship sizes. This strategic location allows visitors to witness massive ships gracefully passing through the locks, a testament to the engineering prowess that defines the Panama Canal. The immersive experience at Agua Claras offers a unique perspective on the vital role this waterway plays in global maritime trade. Don't miss the chance to marvel at the sheer scale and efficiency of the operations at Agua Claras, contributing to the rich tapestry of Panama's iconic canal system.
Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car: 1 hour 15 mins.
For tour information, you can contact us at contact@vivecasco.com or +507 6622 2207.
Panama Viejo
The ruins of the original Panama City, founded in 1519, offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's history. The old cathedral and the tower are particularly noteworthy.
Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car: 15 - 20 mins.
Bio Museum Located at Causeway de Amador. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Biomuseo is a museum dedicated to Panama's biodiversity and the role it played in the creation of the isthmus. The colorful building itself is a work of art.
After visiting the museum you can rent a bike or walk by the boulevard and enjoy one of their many restaurants offer. Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car: 10-15mins.
Causeway de Amador
This scenic causeway connects the mainland to four small islands with great views of the Panama City skyline and the Pacific Ocean. It's a popular spot for jogging, biking, and enjoying the sea breeze.
Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car: 10-15mins,
Parque Metropolitano
For a nature escape within the city, head to Metropolitan Natural Park. It offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing. Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car: About 11 mins.
Cerro Ancón
A short 30-minute hike to the top of Ancon Hill provides panoramic views of Panama City and the surrounding area. It's a great spot for photography and a bit of exercise.
Travel time by car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana: About 10 mins.
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC)
This museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art from both Panamanian and international artists. Distance by car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana: About 8 mins.
Gamboa Rainforest
Discover the magic of Gamboa with a variety of fun activities! Walk along scenic trails, soar above the treetops on an aerial tram, experience the thrill of a zipline, and enjoy birdwatching at the Discovery Center, where Panama's 1000+ bird species await.
For a fantastic adventure, we suggest a complete tour that starts with a boat ride to Monkey Islands, where you'll see wildlife and pass next to the Panama Canal ships. Then you head to Aguas Claras in Colon, followed by exploring Fuerte de San Lorenzo for some history and then return to the city, passing through a lesser-known side of Miraflores Locks. This well-planned trip promises a blend of nature, history, and the unique charm of Panama!
Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa by car: About 40 mins.
For more information on this tour contact us at contact@vivecasco.com or +507 6622 2207.
Taboga Island
Often referred to as the "Island of Flowers," Taboga is a short boat ride from Panama City. It's known for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and its charming village with colorful houses. Boats depart from Flamenco Island in Causeway de Amador (about 10 mins away by car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana) and the boat ride to reach the island is about 30 mins.
Pearl Islands (Archipiélago de las Perlas)
The popular TV show Survivor filmed a season at the Pearl Islands, a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean known for pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Contadora Island, the most developed and accessible among them, is located in the same direction as Taboga Island but a bit further away. Renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Contadora invites visitors with its tranquil beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a secluded and picturesque escape.
To reach Contadora Island, you can book a ferry with two companies: Sea Las Perlas, departing from Flamenco Marina (approximately 12 minutes by car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana), and Ferry Las Perlas, departing from a private dock in front of the JW Marriott in Panama City (also about 12 minutes away by car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana). The boat ride from the marinas to Contadora Island takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Portobelo
This historic town on the Caribbean coast is known for its well-preserved forts and colonial architecture. The Church of San Felipe houses the famous Black Christ statue.
Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car: About 1hr. 45mins.
Venas Azules
Venas Azules and Playa Blanca are two stunning places to visit within Portobelo National Park in Colón. These locations were until very recent hidden gems. You depart from a port in Portobelo (1 hour. 45 mins from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car).
We recommend taking a tour by catamaran.
For tour information contact us at contact@vivecasco.com or +507 6622 2207.
San Blas Islands
A group of islands in the Caribbean Sea, the San Blas Islands are known for their white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. They are inhabited by the indigenous Guna people. If you have time, this is a must-visit!
Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car to the port of Carti: About 1hr 30 mins.
From the port of Carti, you take a motorboat. The duration of the boat ride depends on the specific island you are visiting or staying at, usually ranging from approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Another option is taking a tour by catamaran or sailboat.
For information on tours contact us at contact@vivecasco.com or at +507 6622 2207.
Bocas del Toro
A tropical archipelago on the Caribbean side of Panama, Bocas del Toro is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Modes of transportation:
By bus departing from Albrook Terminal. Travel time is about 10 - 11 hours.
By plane: Travel time is 1 hour.
Pedasí
Pedasi, a charming town on the Azuero Peninsula of Panama, captivates visitors with its laid-back atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. Known for its pristine beaches and warm hospitality, Pedasi has become a favored destination, particularly among retirees seeking a tranquil and welcoming community. The town's appeal extends beyond its quaint streets, offering access to the nearby Isla Iguana. This pristine island, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, is a haven for nature lovers and snorkelers, showcasing diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs.
Travel time from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana by car: About 5 hours.
Travel time by plane: About 40 mins.
Playa Venao
Playa Venao, situated just beyond the charming town of Pedasi on the Azuero Peninsula in Panama, is a coastal gem that beckons with its laid-back ambiance and pristine shoreline. Known for its excellent surfing conditions and golden sands, Playa Venao has become a sought-after destination for beach enthusiasts and water sports aficionados. The journey to Playa Venao unfolds after exploring the quaint streets of Pedasi, offering a seamless transition from the town's charm to the coastal allure of Playa Venao. Whether you're a surfing enthusiast seeking the perfect wave or a traveler craving relaxation by the ocean, Playa Venao provides an idyllic retreat along Panama's Pacific coastline.
Travel time by car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana: About 6 hours.
Santa Catalina and Isla Coiba National Park
Nestled along the Pacific coast of Panama, Santa Catalina emerges as a tranquil haven for those seeking a serene seaside escape and, notably, as a top surf area. This quaint fishing village has garnered attention not only for its picturesque landscapes but also for its proximity to the renowned Coiba National Park. A must-visit for anyone in Santa Catalina, Coiba National Park boasts unparalleled biodiversity, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. It's worth noting that while Santa Catalina offers cozy accommodations, you cannot stay directly on Coiba Island, as it is a protected national park. The journey from Santa Catalina to Coiba, often considered a diver's paradise, is a seamless transition from the village's laid-back ambiance to the untouched natural wonders of the park. Whether you're an avid surfer, diver, nature enthusiast, or simply in search of a secluded paradise, the combination of Santa Catalina and Coiba promises an unforgettable experience along Panama's Pacific shores.
Modes of transportation:
- By bus from Albrook Terminal. It takes about 8 hours.
- By car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana: About 5 hours 30 mins.
Distance from Santa Catalina to Coiba National Park by motorboat: 1 hr. 15 mins.
El Valle de Antón
Situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, El Valle is a picturesque town with a cooler climate. Visit the local market, explore the butterfly haven, and take a dip in the hot springs.
Modes of Transportation:
- By bus from Albrook Terminal: It takes about 2 hours.
- By car from Casco Viejo or Santa Ana: It also takes about 2 hours.
Boquete
Nestled in the highlands, Boquete is a renowned destination for ecotourism, offering a perfect blend of nature and culture. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the region by enjoying activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the lush coffee plantations that adorn the landscape. Boquete is particularly celebrated for being the home of Geisha coffee, one of the most sought-after and high-quality coffee varieties globally. The town is also famous for its annual flower and coffee festivals.
Modes of transportation from the city:
-By plane: It takes about 1 hour to fly from Panama City to David. Then you need to take a bus or ride to Boquete for about 45 minutes.
-By bus: It takes about 7 hours 30 mins.
=By car: It takes about 7 hours.
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