Best Road Trip in Panama
Panama is a small country in Central America that is blessed with a diverse landscape that ranges from lush rainforests to pristine beaches, and from picturesque mountain ranges to expansive valleys. With its numerous attractions, Panama is a great destination for road trips, where you can explore the country’s hidden gems, encounter its friendly locals, and enjoy the scenic views that it offers. If you are planning a road trip in Panama, here are some of the best routes that you can take.
1. The Pan-American Highway
The Pan-American Highway is the longest road in the world, stretching over 30,000 miles from Prudhoe Bay in Alaska to Ushuaia in Argentina. In Panama, the Pan-American Highway runs from the Costa Rican border to the Colombian border, passing through the country’s major cities, including Panama City, David, and Santiago. The road is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of the country’s landscape, making it a popular route for both locals and tourists. Along the way, you can stop at the small towns and villages, visit historical landmarks and museums, and sample local delicacies.
2. The Amador Causeway
The Amador Causeway is a scenic road that connects Panama City with four small islands in the Pacific Ocean, namely Naos, Perico, Culebra, and Flamenco. The causeway offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the ocean, making it a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and walking. Along the way, you can stop at the many restaurants and bars, visit the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, and enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
3. The Chiriqui Highlands
The Chiriqui Highlands is a mountainous region located in western Panama that offers a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling rivers. The region is home to several national parks, including Volcan Baru National Park, where you can hike to the top of the volcano and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other attractions in the region include the Boquete Coffee Plantation, the hot springs at Caldera, and the cloud forest of Finca Lerida.
4. The Azuero Peninsula
The Azuero Peninsula is a region located in southern Panama that is known for its rich history, culture, and tradition. The region is home to several charming towns and villages, including Las Tablas, Chitre, and Pedasi, where you can explore colonial architecture, visit museums and galleries, and attend traditional festivals and events. Along the way, you can also enjoy the region’s beautiful beaches, such as Playa Venao and Playa El Toro, and taste local dishes such as ceviche and sancocho.
5. The Darien Gap
The Darien Gap is a dense jungle that covers the border between Panama and Colombia and is known for its challenging terrain, dangerous wildlife, and difficult weather conditions. Despite its reputation, the Darien Gap offers a unique adventure for those who are willing to brave its challenges. The region is home to several indigenous communities, such as the Embera and Wounaan, who have preserved their traditional way of life for centuries. To explore the Darien Gap, you need to hire a local guide who can help you navigate through the jungle and introduce you to the local culture.
6. The Transisthmian Highway
The Transisthmian Highway is a road that runs from Panama City on the Pacific coast to Colon on the Atlantic coast and is considered one of the engineering marvels of Panama. The road was built in the early 20th century to facilitate the transportation of goods between the two coasts and is still in use today. Along the way, you can stop at the historic town of Portobelo.
Read Also: The Ultimate Guide to 19 Top Places to Visit in USA
Nightlife In Panama
Panama City is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, which features a diverse array of clubs, bars, and lounges that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here are the top 5 clubs in Panama that are worth checking out:
1. Teatro Amador
Located in the Casco Viejo neighborhood, Teatro Amador is a stunning venue that combines art, music, and entertainment. The club is housed in a restored 1908 theater and features a spacious dance floor, a mezzanine level with VIP booths, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city skyline. Teatro Amador hosts regular live music shows, DJ sets, and cultural events that showcase the best of Panama’s talent and creativity.
2. Bling
As its name suggests, Bling is a high-end club that exudes luxury and glamour. The club is situated in the Obarrio district, which is known for its upscale dining and shopping options. Bling features a sleek and modern design, with a black and gold color scheme and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. The club hosts some of the hottest parties in Panama City, with an emphasis on electronic dance music (EDM) and hip hop.
3. Casa Jaguar
If you’re looking for a more laid-back and bohemian vibe, Casa Jaguar is the place to be. This open-air club is located in the heart of the Casco Viejo and features a lush garden setting, with hammocks, lanterns, and tropical plants. Casa Jaguar serves as a gathering place for Panama’s creative and artistic community, and hosts a variety of events, including live music, film screenings, and cultural festivals.
4. La Tana
For a more underground and intimate experience, La Tana is a hidden gem that is not to be missed. This speakeasy-style club is located in a basement beneath a nondescript building in the Bella Vista neighborhood. La Tana has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with vintage decor, low lighting, and a curated selection of drinks and snacks. The club hosts regular DJ sets and live music shows that showcase emerging and established talent from Panama and beyond.
5. Wahaka Party
Wahaka Party Club is one of the hottest nightlife spots in Panama City, located in the heart of the city’s bustling financial district. This trendy club is known for its vibrant atmosphere, top-notch DJs, and impressive sound and lighting systems.
The club features two floors of dancing and entertainment, with different music genres and themes on each level. The first floor offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a focus on Latin and Caribbean music, while the second floor is geared towards electronic dance music (EDM) and techno fans.
Panama offers a wealth of opportunities for road trip enthusiasts looking to explore its diverse landscape, history, culture, and traditions. Whether you prefer the rugged wilderness of the Darien Gap, the scenic beauty of the Chiriqui Highlands, or the vibrant culture of the Azuero Peninsula, Panama has something for everyone.
One of the best things about road tripping in Panama is the opportunity to meet its friendly locals, who are always eager to share their stories, customs, and cuisine. From the indigenous communities of the Darien Gap to the artisans of the Chiriqui Highlands, Panama’s people are an integral part of its rich heritage and identity.
Another advantage of road tripping in Panama is the ease of transportation and the quality of its roads. The Pan-American Highway, the Transisthmian Highway, and the Amador Causeway are all well-maintained and offer breathtaking views of the country’s landscape. Additionally, the country’s small size and relative lack of traffic make it easy to get around and explore its hidden gems.
One of the challenges of road tripping in Panama is the weather, which can be unpredictable and intense, especially during the rainy season from May to November. It is essential to check weather forecasts, road conditions, and safety advisories before embarking on a trip, and to be prepared with appropriate gear, such as raincoats, flashlights, and first aid kits.
Overall, a road trip in Panama is an unforgettable adventure that combines natural wonders, cultural immersion, and personal growth. It is an opportunity to discover new horizons, challenge your limits, and connect with the world and yourself. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Panama has something to offer, and it is waiting for you to hit the road and explore its wonders.
