Panama City, a vibrant hub where history, culture, and innovation converge, offers an unparalleled gateway to explore Panama's diversity. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where colonial-era architecture meets trendy cafes and art galleries. Witness the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, a cornerstone of global trade, and delve into the striking design and biodiversity exhibits of the Frank Gehry Biomuseo, showcasing Panama's unique role as a bridge between continents and ecosystems. Nearby, discover the allure of tropical island destinations on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Experience the Afro-Caribbean heritage through vibrant music, dance, and cuisine, reflecting Panama’s rich cultural mosaic. For those seeking adventure, join a unique fishing experience in the Panama Canal, targeting invasive species like peacock bass, combining conservation with the thrill of the catch. Easy access to tropical rainforest immersions just minutes from the city, a living laboratory teeming with wildlife and ecological wonders.
Itinerary
Day 1
Walk the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Casco Viejo and its surrounding neighborhoods, uncovering its colonial charm and rich heritage. Go beyond to discover the layers of transformation as the area undergoes gentrification, revealing a dynamic interplay of tradition and modernity. Bike to STRI’s Punta Culebra Nature Center, where you’ll explore interactive exhibits and outdoor trails showcasing Panama’s rich marine and terrestrial biodiversity connections between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
Day 2
Discover the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo, where Panama’s rich biodiversity and cultural history come to life. Visit the awe-inspiring Panama Canal, a marvel of modern engineering that reshaped global trade. Finally, head to Gatun Lake to fish for invasive species like peacock bass while spotting wildlife like capuchins, toucans, and caimans in its hidden corners.
Day 3
Join a river cleanup project, actively contributing to the local ecosystem's health by removing waste and learning about waterway conservation efforts. Gain insight into clean rivers' vital role in sustaining biodiversity and community well-being. Explore the Metropolitan Natural Park, a lush tropical rainforest just minutes from Panama City’s urban center, where you’ll be surrounded by wildlife, verdant trails, and breathtaking views of the city and its natural surroundings