Be ready to fall in love with Panama

Panama is a transcontinental country that connects Central and South America. It borders Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the southeast. The country is best known for the Panama Canal, a vital waterway that links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The canal crosses the Isthmus of Panama and plays a key role in global maritime trade. Recognized as one of the “Seven Wonders of the Modern World” by the American Society of Civil Engineers, it remains one of the most ambitious engineering feats ever completed. Along with tourism and international banking, the canal is a major contributor to Panama’s economy.

Panama also encompasses over 1,800 islands, many of them uninhabited and surrounded by lush vegetation or coral reefs. These islands fall into four major regions:

• Bocas del Toro Archipelago, in the Caribbean, known for its laid-back vibe, surf spots, and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture
• Guna Yala (San Blas Islands), also in the Caribbean, governed by the Guna indigenous people and famous for their autonomy and preserved traditions
• Las Perlas Archipelago, in the Gulf of Panama, home to pristine beaches, whale watching, and upscale island retreats
• Gulf of Chiriquí, on the Pacific side, which includes Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in marine biodiversity

Panama has long been a place of passage, a crossroads for explorers, traders, and travelers. Today, it is attracting a new generation of visitors drawn not only by its strategic location but by its natural beauty, cultural richness, and welcoming spirit.