Cultural and Historical Sites in Panamá

Panamá connects the world, and not only because it’s the bridge between North and South America. For centuries Panamá has been a crossroads for humanity and a meeting point for peoples, goods and ideas. Settled thousands of years ago by ancient civilizations, the land that has become modern-day Panamá boasts a rich mosaic of cultural diversity where indigenous roots meet African heritage and Spanish influence. It is also a place that many travelers have passed through for hundreds of years.

A visit to Panamá will not only expose you to some of the oldest colonial relics in this part of the world—including the oldest Spanish fort and the first European settlement in the Pacific—but, you’ll also get the chance to see the burial grounds of an ancient civilization that once lived in the area at the ongoing excavation site, known as El Caño Archaeological Park.

Aside from the rich history of the land, Panamá is home to 7 different thriving indigenous communities, two of which—the Guna and the Emberá—can easily be visited by tourists eager to learn more about their well-preserved traditions and unique cosmogenic views. Visitors can explore Panamá’s Congo culture in places like Portobelo, as well as the unique gastronomy of Panama’s Afro-Caribbean community. In the central provinces of Los Santos and Herrera, you’ll get to learn about the traditional folklore and Panamanian customs including the pollera, cutarras and diablicos.

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Casco Antiguo

Experience the historical, charming and vibrant neighborhood of Panama City’s historic...

Biomuseo

To learn more about Panama’s unique impact on the world’s biodiversity, as well as the...

Amador Causeway

Visit one of the best known roads in Panama, and access some of the city’s top attractions...

San Lorenzo

Located near the mouth of the Chagres River, the remains of the mighty Fort San Lorenzo stand...

Panama Canal

Arguably the most famous attraction in Panama is the Panama Canal. As one of the 7 Wonders of the...

Panama Viejo

Venture to the eastern suburbs of Panama City and you’ll find the remaining parts of the...

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Surfing

Panamá is a surfer’s haven. We welcome you to the stunning shores of our fishing...

Birdwatching

Panamá is home and a place of pilgrimage to more than 1,000 bird species. The tropical...

Turtle Sanctuaries

On the Sandy shores of Panamá, sea turtles live, grow, and thrive under our warm sun and safe...

Hiking

Rich in tropical flora, diverse wildlife, and picture-worthy sights, Panamá trails offer...

Fishing

With world record fishing, more than 2,900 km (1,800 miles) of coastline and the perfect...

Afro Heritage

Afro culture in Panamá is a vibrant and essential part of the country's cultural mosaic....

Diving & Snorkeling

Discover the magical and incredible Panamanian marine world while snorkeling and diving. Diverse...

Beaches

Panamá is the isthmus connecting Central America and South America, and offers access to both...