Panama and its history
Panamanian society is a unique, multicultural melting pot, reflected in its strong traditions, numerous festivals and varied cuisine. In many places, you can still see how the past has shaped the Panama of today.
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Old versus new in Panama City
Nowhere else in Central America do modernity and tradition blend so seamlessly as in Panama City. On one side, you’ll find the towering skyscrapers of the modern part of the city, whilst on the other, in Casco Viejo – the historic centre – you can stroll past colonial buildings, charming restaurants and the city’s best coffee shops.
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The Panama Canal
A marvel of human engineering. From the viewing point at the Miraflores Locks, you’ll enjoy a magnificent view of the canal and the locks. The experience becomes truly unforgettable when you explore the canal on a cruise or admire it from a helicopter.
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Colours and scents at the Sunday market
About a 2.5-hour drive from Panama City lies the picturesque village of El Valle. On Sundays, indigenous people and farmers from the surrounding area gather here to sell their wares at the market. Here you’ll find a wealth of handcrafted goods, creating a stunning palette of vibrant colours and a myriad of scents. The indigenous people you’ll find here consist of the Ngöbe-Buglé, Embera and Wounaan tribes.
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The port town of Portobelo
From the 16th to the 18th century, this town – about a 1.5-hour drive from Panama City – was an important port for the export of silver. Portobelo means ‘beautiful harbour’ in Portuguese and was named by Columbus when he discovered the bay in 1502. Here you will find many ruins and Spanish forts, such as the Portobelo and San Lorenzo forts, perched high on a cliff at the mouth of the Chagres River.
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Staying overnight in El Otro Lado
If you cross the water at Portobelo, you’ll arrive at El Otro Lado, which we consider to be one of the most extraordinary hotels in Panama. El Otro Lado is surrounded by nature and equipped with all the comforts of modern life. It offers the ultimate combination of authenticity, luxury and comfort, with an overwhelming sense of tranquillity.
The most important city in Central America
Panama City is Central America’s most important commercial centre. The city boasts a beautiful skyline consisting mainly of high-rise buildings. A striking contrast is provided by the tropical rainforest that surrounds the modern city. Panama City was founded on 15 August 1519 by the Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias Dávila. In 1671, the pirate Henry Morgan plundered and set fire to the city. Today, the damage has (largely) been repaired. The city has plenty of sights and activities to keep you occupied for several days. From Panama City, you can easily explore the rest of the country.
Fancy a trip of Panama?
Would you like to organise your own trip of Panama and are you curious about the options? Then do have a look at the tours we’ve put together for inspiration. You can book these tours directly, but we’d also be happy to put together a personalised itinerary based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have a question? Please feel free to contact us. Call +31 73 610 62 04 or send an email to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We’ll be happy to help.