Welcome to Panama, the land of endless discovery and natural beauty! We are delighted to have you join us on this unforgettable adventure through this vibrant and diverse country.
Get ready to explore Panama´s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm people. To help you make the most of your journey through Panama, here are some interesting facts about the country that will help you understand its culture and people, as well as some key tips for traveling around.
Interesting Facts About Panamá
With over 1,400 islands, coastlines spanning 1,800 miles of breathtaking beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean, and mountain ranges that divide the country north and south providing distinctive climates and ecosystems, there are seemingly endless options for places to visit in Panamá. Take your pick of rainforest adventures in a biodiverse wonderland or cultural pursuits in cities big and small.
Panama is located in Central America, connecting North and South America. It is bordered by Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east.
The capital of Panama is Panama City, which is a bustling metropolis known for its modern skyline and historical Casco Viejo district.
Climate: Panama has a tropical climate with a wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April. The best time to visit is during the dry season for outdoor activities.
Biodiversity: Panama is known for its rich biodiversity, with lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and numerous national parks and reserves, such as the Darien National Park. It's home to over 10,000 plant species, 1,500 species of trees, and numerous animal species, including jaguars, sloths, and toucans.
Beaches: Panama offers beautiful beaches along both its Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Popular beach destinations include Bocas del Toro, San Blas Islands, and Santa Catalina.
Culture: Panama has a diverse cultural heritage influenced by indigenous peoples, Spanish colonization, African heritage, and more. This cultural blend is reflected in its cuisine, music, and festivals.
Indigenous Cultures: Panama has several indigenous groups, such as the Guna, Emberá, and Ngäbe-Buglé. Each has its own unique culture, language, and traditions.
Panama Canal: Panama is famous for the Panama Canal, a crucial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It's a vital route for international trade and shipping.
Bridge of the Americas: This bridge spans the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal and connects North and South America. It's an iconic symbol of Panama's role in connecting the continents.
Other Interesting Facts About Panamá
Tropical Rainforests: Much of Panama is covered by lush tropical rainforests. These forests play a crucial role in maintaining the country's biodiversity and ecosystem.
Carnival: Panama's Carnival celebration is one of the most vibrant and colorful in the world. It features parades, music, dancing, and elaborate costumes, often in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday.
Diverse Geography: Panama boasts diverse landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and islands. The country offers opportunities for activities like hiking, surfing, and bird-watching.
Tropics and Birdwatching: Panama is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 970 bird species, including the Harpy Eagle, one of the world's largest eagles.
Unusual Time Zone: Panama is in the Eastern Time Zone, despite its location in the western part of the hemisphere. This unique time zone choice is due to its historical connection to the United States.
Balboa: Panama uses the United States dollar as its official currency, but it also has a local currency called the Balboa. However, Balboa coins are rarely used, and U.S. dollars are the primary form of currency.
Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas.