Panama City, Central America

The Panama Canal is definitely the country's most important infrastructure, both from a strategical and economic point of view. The Miraflores Visitor’s Center is just a 30 minutes ride from downtown: it has a museum, gift shop, restaurant and observation deck where you can watch the massive ships pass through the locks. It truly is a modern marvel. In contrast to the more historically and socially focused Museo del Canal Interoceanico, the Miraflores Visitor's Center concentrates on science, technology and environment behind the functioning of the Canal. The center is worth an afternoon of exploration.

The historic district of Panama City, keeper of the city's traditions and history, is characterized by charming narrow streets, colorful buildings, exciting cultural attractions and an array of hotels, cafes, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and art galleries. No wonder people are coming from all over the world to visit this evocative little corner of the world. In 1673, after the sacking of Panama Viejo by Welsh privateer Henry Morgan, the current Casco Antiguo was chosen as location to rebuild Panama’s capital city. The new city was surrounded by a wall to protect it from further pillaging. An eclectic blend of French, Spanish and American architecture developed as the country evolved over the years.

With almost 1000 birds species and a unique natural diversity, Panama is the perfect spot for bird-watching and wild nature enthusiasts. The Soberania National Park, 30 minutes away from Panama City, offers a great opportunity for discovering the country's flora and fauna. The Panama Rainforest Discovery Center, located inside the National park, offers a 1.1 kilometer circuit of trails through the forest and a 32 meters tall observation tower, from which to observe the vast rain forest. Take part in a unique journey, lose yourself in the lush tropical jungle, explore, discover, learn.

Still undecided about which museums to visit while in Panama City? Worry no more, because you have found the one you can't miss. With 10 permanent exhibitions that trace the construction of the Panama Canal and its impact on Panamanian history and society, the museum deserves at least a couple of hours in order to appreciate and absorb the wealth of information available. The museum highlights include the 1977 Carter-Torrijos Treaty that marked the end of the American control over the Panama Canal, as well as several interactive and engaging exhibits. Guided tours are available in both Spanish and English to help you navigate through the abundant information.

Discover the fascinating, timeless lifestyle of the Embera indigenous tribe, an ethnic minority who survived the arrival of the conquistadors and continues to exist today. Embark on a canoe trip along the Chagres river, through the lush tropical rain forest and learn about their culture, everyday life and traditions. The Embera people are famous for their basketry and woodwork, among other handicrafts. This is one of the best experiences you can have while visiting Panama City.