Zipto Travelers Corner

Panama – More Than Just A Canal

September 21, 2009

My most recent stationary global exploration takes me to the vibrant country of Panama. The more I research and chat with the experts, the more I realize that Panama is an undiscovered gem in Central America, and it has so much more to offer than just the Panama Canal. I find it hard to shake the feeling that just having Panama on my vacation radar means that I’m in on a little secret the rest of the traveling world has yet to discover. However, until the anticipated tourism explosion, Panama remains totally accessible to travelers on a budget, and there’s no shortage of beaches, mountains and rain forests to explore in this scenic country.

So now that you’re “in the know”, take my word for it, this place is stunning and sure to make a deep impression on any traveler’s soul. I’ve learned that the best time to visit is during the dry season from mid-December to mid-April, if you’re planning on doing outdoor activities. Rafting, for example, is at its best in Chiriquí Province at this time as the rivers run higher, likewise with diving, as the dry season lends to better ocean visibility. Of course, this colorful, friendly country does draw significant crowds during times of celebration, but the influx of visitors is well worth it. The Península de Azuero is popular for its Carnival, as is Panama City’s Mardi Gras celebration (along with being one of the world’s largest).

The Archipiélago de las Perlas by itself could occupy your entire trip, with its endless islands and inlets, awe-inspiring beaches and beautiful blue waters. Parque Nacional Volcán Barú is the home of Panama‘s only volcano and some incredibly scenic trekking spots, while the interior is full of colonial towns, exquisite handicrafts and some of the country’s friendliest people. If you’re a nature buff, you’ll find Panama’s biodiversity staggering. This country is home to hundreds of different animal species (with 125 species found nowhere else in the world) and it boasts 940 different species of birds (the largest number in Central America). In fact, bird-watchers consider Panama to be one of the world’s best birding sights. Jaguars, pumas and ocelots also grace the country’s river banks.

While Panama is a nature hiker’s dream, it’s affordable, modern cities also have much to offer. Throughout the country, you can find reasonably priced lodging but big savings also comes when dining out. You’ll find delicious yet inexpensive food at every turn! If you’re looking for an authentic, yet reasonably priced adventure, you can travel frugally in Panama. When planning my fantasy trip, I heard through the grapevine that taking boats to neighboring Central American countries is apparently the cool thing to do. Apparently chartering a sailboat for you and your friends to Cartagena, Columbia from Panama’s San Blas Islands is actually pretty cheap. I would definitely enjoy the gentle rocking of a boat and the tropical sun’s warmth on my shoulders. Maybe one day I’ll even get to see this for myself. So when you’re booking your airfare please pick up an extra ticket for me!