As one of the 7 wonders of the modern world, the Panama Canal is a must see for anyone traveling around the country. Built to dramatically reduce the travel time of ships between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, the Canal has seen more than 900,000 ships and counting. Whether sailing or exploring it on foot, visiting the Panama Canal is one of the most popular things to see in Panama. The canal, which is perhaps the world's best example of engineering brilliance, extends 80 kilometers through the center of the country and was designed as a shortcut for navigation.
Panama is considered the bridge of the Americas and is only a 2.5-hour flight from Miami. Since it is a connecting point for routes that continue to Central and South America, almost all major airlines fly to Tocumen International Airport. Once in Panama, you can easily take a 45-minute internal flight to the Caribbean islands of Bocas del Toro or the Boquete Mountains, near David. Panama is a tropical paradise that is home to some of the most diverse and exotic animal and plant species on the planet.
Because of its geographical position, the country serves as a biological corridor connecting North and South America. Covered almost entirely by tropical jungle, with mountain forests and mangrove wetlands, it is home to more than 10,444 types of plants, 255 species of mammals and 972 species of native birds, according to the National Society for the Protection of Nature of Panama. If you've previously overlooked Panama as a vacation destination, here are 10 reasons to travel to Panama, the trip of a lifetime. Whether you're looking for an adventurous, relaxing or romantic getaway, Panama has numerous experiences and attractions to suit any travel style.
From its breathtaking landscapes to its vibrant culture, there's no shortage of reasons to travel to Panama during your next vacation. Since Panama is a relatively small country (slightly smaller than South Carolina) with good transportation infrastructure, it's incredibly easy to get around. Rental cars are easily accessible in most large cities and many roads are in good condition, making it easy to travel by car. For long-distance regional travel, small planes and buses also offer affordable options.
American and British leaders and businessmen wanted to ship goods quickly and cheaply between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. On the Pacific side is the Pearl Archipelago, in front of Panama City, and smaller and more famous islands in natural parks such as Coiba Island. Conveniently located between North and South America, most major airlines offer direct flights to Panama. I notice very often that people give you long and convoluted explanations when a simple and concise answer would suffice.
If you take a look at the maps below, you'll see that the Panama Canal made a big difference in time and cost for cargo ships. There are different ways in which visitors can observe a passage, including experiencing first-hand one of the Panama Canal tours that cross the locks. The so-called “incredible” Panama Canal consisted of huge gray cement channels through which murky water flowed. Another benefit of the country's climate is that visitors never have to worry about hurricanes or earthquakes because of the country's location outside the Atlantic hurricane belt. Exact transit times are available so that guests can schedule their visit to coincide with the passage of a ship, and since it changes daily, it's best to call the visitor center in advance.
The Panama Canal is a world-renowned engineering marvel, a 48-mile artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, opens the way between two continents and transforms maritime navigation forever. With a combination of African, native Panamanian and Spanish influences, a visit to Panama promises a cultural experience like no other. Boca Brava Island in Panama is home to many spectacular places, such as native forests, exotic flora and fauna, grazing land and tropical beaches. It's an excellent option for visitors who want to enjoy the canal at night without crowds, while enjoying excellent food.
