Top Places to Visit on Panama's Caribbean

White beaches with nesting tortoises, Caribbean islands with indigenous peoples and mile after mile of paradise await you on the Caribbean side of Panama. Here are some of our favorite spots to plan a Panama trip around:

San Blas Islands are made of over 360 islands off the Caribbean Coast of Panama, only 60 of which are inhabited. The islands are virtually self-governed by the local Kuna indigenous people who host and educate travelers about their traditional lifestyle in harmony on these pristine islands.

Bocas del Toro Islands, an isolated chain of islands off the northeast coast of Panama let you dive into a relaxed Caribbean vibe. Explore Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park and its endless coral reefs for world class snorkeling and sea kayaking.

Portobelo was founded by Christopher Columbus on his fourth voyage to the new continent in 1597, and naturally, this quaint town is full of stories of conquests and plunder. Explore Portobelo and the coastline of the Caribbean side of the Panama Canal on a cruise of Panama's Caribbean coast to the Pacific Ocean.

Panama Fun Facts

The famous "Panama Hats" are not actually from Panama, but rather Ecuador, where they were originally made and are known as toquilla straw hats. Their popular use during the construction of the Panama Canal gave them their misnomer.

One of the most well known palindromes in the world: A MAN, A PLAN, A CANAL, PANAMA. 

The only capital city in the world that has a rainforest within its city limits is Panama City.

Panama was the first country in Latin America to adopt US currency as its own.

Panama is the only country in the world where you can swim in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in one day without flying from one coast to another.

Panama Canal Cruises
Why take a Panama Canal cruise?
Since the Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific, not only do you experience all the best that Panama has to offer, but you can also explore destinations in Costa Rica and the Caribbean. 

How long are they?
We offer Panama Canal cruises that are between 7-days and two weeks, however if you find another land-based excursion that you like, we also feature several day-long or half-day extension tours that you can add on after your other itinerary ends.

What are the activities on a Panama Canal cruise? 
These cruises are great for travelers of all ages and especially families, since there are a lot of engaging activities along the way. A few examples of things you might do include:

• Journey to the Darien Jungle and meet Embera Indians.
• Kayak along beautiful & unspoiled beaches.
• Experience the history & operation of the Panama Canal.
• Explore Barro Colorado Island & its abundant wildlife.
• Visit historic sites of the Spanish conquistadors.
• Transit along the Panamá Canal, a marvel of engineering and human tenacity.
• Enjoy bird watching on an exciting skiff exploration in the Gulf of Panama.
• Visit Granito de Oro islet, named one of the world’s top 10 diving sites.
• Hike through the jungle in incredible Corcovado National Park.
• Snorkel in the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean and tropical Pacific Islands.