The Amador Causeway, or Calzada de Amador, is one of Panama City's most popular and scenic spots. This 6-kilometer-long causeway connects the mainland to four small islands at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal: Naos, Perico, Culebra, and Flamenco. Originally constructed using rock excavated during the building of the Panama Canal, it was intended as a breakwater to protect the canal's entrance from ocean swells.
Punta Chame is a scenic peninsula located about an hour and a half from Panama City, on Panama’s Pacific coast. Known for its long stretches of white sandy beaches and calm waters, this peaceful retreat is a favorite destination for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a more laid-back, coastal experience.
Metropolitan Natural Park is a lush, green oasis located just minutes from the heart of Panama City. Covering 232 hectares (about 573 acres), it’s the only protected tropical forest within the city limits, offering locals and tourists a peaceful retreat into nature without having to leave the urban environment.
The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including over 250 species of birds, white-tailed deer, agoutis, sloths, and tamarins. It's a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers who come to observe the vibrant and diverse ecosystem that thrives in this urban refuge. Several well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the park, leading visitors through dense forests, streams, and scenic lookout points. One of the most popular trails, Cerro Cedro, culminates in a spectacular view of Panama City’s skyline, the Panama Canal, and the Bay of Panama.
Besides hiking, the Metropolitan Natural Park is a great spot for picnicking, nature photography, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the forest. It’s a perfect day trip for anyone looking to escape the city's hustle and reconnect with nature without venturing too far from modern amenities.
Casco Viejo, also known as the Old Quarter or Casco Antiguo, is Panama City's historic district and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded in 1673 after the destruction of the original Panama City (Panamá Viejo), this charming neighborhood is a blend of colonial architecture, colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and rich history.
Walking through Casco Viejo feels like stepping back in time, as it is home to restored churches, plazas, and historic buildings. Notable landmarks include the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Church of San José (famous for its golden altar), and Plaza de la Independencia, where Panama’s independence from Colombia was declared.
In recent years, Casco Viejo has undergone a transformation, becoming a trendy hotspot for both locals and tourists. The district is lined with boutique hotels, rooftop bars, art galleries, and cafes, offering a lively mix of culture, cuisine, and entertainment. It's a perfect spot for exploring during the day and enjoying the nightlife in the evening.
Despite its modern touches, Casco Viejo retains its authentic charm, blending the old with the new. With its picturesque streets and rich cultural significance, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Panama City’s vibrant history and contemporary urban life.
Altos de Campana is the oldest national park in Panama. Established in 1966, this 4,817-acre (1,950 ha) park is a good place to view orange-bellied trogons and other avian species. It's a short drive from Panama City and is an easy stopping point along the Inter-American Highway.
Bird watchers are fond of Altos de Campana because the park is home to species threatened in other parts of Central America, including the purple-bellied hummingbird, white-tipped sicklebird, and bronze-tailed plumelet. Other bird species include orange-bellied trogons, rufous motmots, collared aracaris and the chestnut-headed finch. In total, some 267 bird species live or migrate through Altos de Campana.
Opening time = 8:30 a.m.
Closing time = 4:30 p.m.
Panama Canal
Do you want to see how ships pass through the Panama Canal locks? The building has a terrace on the ground floor and stands on the 1st level to observe the operation of the canal, the passage of ships through the locks and their movement. It's the perfect place to take photos and keep memories of this engineering marvel. Vessel transits may vary depending on schedules.
Our new Miraflores observation deck offers visitors an exceptional view of the workings of our canal. With a strategic location and modern design, the lookout offers a unique experience to closely observe the fascinating transit of ships through the iconic century-old locks.
The Panama Canal is one of the most remarkable engineering feats in the world, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through a 50-mile (80 km) artificial waterway. Completed in 1914, the canal revolutionized global trade by allowing ships to bypass the long and treacherous voyage around the southern tip of South America, reducing travel time between the two oceans by weeks.
Panama Surf School