Join me on this journey! I’m Catalina, a passionate #travelpioneer, here to share my recent experience and insider tips to make your planning to Panama even more special.

I have to say that few countries can boast such a rich and diverse array of natural and urban landscapes as Panama. Tthriving indigenous, Latino, Afro-Caribbean, and international cultures, this tropical nation is a melting pot. From its rainforests cleaved in two by one of the world’s most notable technological achievements, the Panama Canal, to its Caribbean and amazing Pacific Coast islands. 

Begin in Casco Viejo, Panama City, I always start in Casco Viejo. It´s like stepping back in time to Panama’s past, just minutes away from the modern city. Founded in 1671, Casco Viejo, also known as Casco Antiguo, is home to the capital’s  historic quarter, that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

This fascinating area, built on a peninsula and fortified by walls, is filled with historic landmarks, colonial buildings, and interesting spots like restaurants, nightclubs, and boutique hotels, making it a great experience. I always recommend pairing a historical tour with a private foodie tour experience to sample the diverse flavors—Latin, Chinese, Afro-Panamanian, and international. I found this place called Villa Ana 1928, where the cuisine is as enjoyable as the living art atmosphere. This was an amazing new culinary highlight for me! The whole place is an art museum, and the third floor is the attic, where you’ll find live music and a speakeasy. The terrace above is a rum bar with cigars and a rooftop view. Each floor is beautifully decorated; every detail, every piece makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. Shouldn't be missed!

When I stay overnight, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo is my go-to. Overlooking the waterfront, is a very elegant hotel and it has an interesting charm French history with colorful Panamanian culture. A top-notch restaurant, a spa, and luxury suites, it’s the perfect base for exploring Panama City.

Miraflores and the Panama Canal. No trip to Panama is complete without visiting the great Panama that always amazes me. The Miraflores Locks Museum is a must-see, offering deep insights into the canal’s construction, engineering, the politics behind it, and its global impact. 

With Travel Pioneers, you’ll get an insider’s VIP view of the canal’s operations, and you can even experience navigating the locks aboard a ship!

Boquete — A Mountain Town. After the city, I find peace in the mountain town of Boquete, located under the boarders of Barú Volcano. They call it the “Switzerland of Panama,”  it is a very cozy village with the best coffee and lots of outdoor activities—rafting, ziplining, horseback riding, or just hiking through cloud forests with exotic wildlife.

I love staying at ,Finca Lerida Hotel & Coffee Farm set in a lush coffee plantation. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to immerse in the history, cuisine, and natural beauty of this place.

Isla Palenque — A Remote Island Retreat. Leaving the mountains behind, I head to Isla Palenque, Panama’s version of a tropical paradise. Just a short flight from David, this small island in the Gulf of Chiriquí is rich in history and landscape beauty. The dense tropical forest in this place, mangroves, and serene beaches invite you to slow down and embrace island life.

Isla Palenque Resort is a luxury retreat perfect to relax in beautiifuly in appointed villas, here you can explore jungle trails, or simply enjoy the peace of this untouched sanctuary. The experience and service are top-notch here.

The Gulf of Chiriquí — A Spectacular Island Getaway, this place is filled with natural wonders, including Coiba and the Chiriquí National Park and a handful of pristine shorelines and tropical islands, called Islas Secas, a group of 14 pristine islands. And one of the islands is home to one of my favorite retreats, the luxurious Islas Secas Private Island Resort. This all-inclusive retreat offers villa-style accommodations, fresh daily meals, and activities like snorkeling, yoga, and whale watching. It’s the perfect scape o experience Panama’s islands and it has its own landing strip, so it is easy to get there! 

Then, ofcourse I also visited Panama´s Caribbean paradise... 

Bocas del Toro — An Unparalleled Caribbean Escape, it offers rich cultural and water-based adventures. The archipelago’s islands are filled with tropical biodiversity and Afro-Caribbean influences. Diving and snorkeling are the premier pastimes, as well as cultural excursions, surfing, beach and adventure tours. Dining is an essential part of the Bocas experience that reflecs its cultural heritage. An abundance of fresh seafood and cultural influences result in an amazing historically inspired menu options. 

Nayara Bocas del Toro is my favorite retreat here, an adults-only resort that’s received multiple “Best in the World” honors.  With overwater villas, treehouse bungalows, saltwater plunge pools, expertly crafted Balinese furnishings, and fine details such as brass bathtubs, naturally sourced premium amenities, premier bedding, and wellness-focused experiences,

Nayara takes our guests not only into an immersive journey covering the natural surroundings, but wellness and gastronomy are also integral factors. A chef-led culinary team delivers fresh and authentic dining experiences, while the expert wellness Spa invites guests to reconnect with their inner harmony and inspiration. A must-visit & a Travel Pioneers’ favorite!

Thank you for joining me in this adventure! 

Catalina Herrera 

#StoryMaker

Travel Pioneers