Panama

Types of trips: Nature, History, Relaxation, Adventure, Cultural

Best known for: Panama Canal/Continental Divide, Rainforests, Beaches

Why Go?: Famous for being the passageway between the Atlantic and the Pacific, Panama is a country with a combination of history, wilderness and culture all in one. The cities are contrasted with the mysterious mountains and the wide blue sea, and will be a memorable destination for all who travel here.

Fact File

Population: 3,600,000

Capital: Panama City

Language(s): Spanish

Ties to the UK?: Good political relationship, popular holiday destination

Landscape: Central mountains with some lower areas, many large rivers, stretches of jungle

Climate/Seasons: Generally warm and tropical with little variation year-round in temperatures, with a rainy season running from May - November.

When to Go: The most popular time to visit Panama is from December - April during the dry season, but this is the time when prices will be at their highest and places will be busiest. The rainy season in Panama is still enjoyable as temperatures are still good and the rain is reasonably sporadic.

Reasons to Visit: Panama Canal, biodiversity, scenery

How to Get There: There are several international airports you can travel to in Panama - make sure to check out details for flights to each one.

Places to Go: Panama Canal, Arte Cruz Volcan-Master Wood carving, Panama Dive Centre, Casco Viejo

Famous People: Mariano Rivera, Juan Carlos Varela, Ruben Blades, Carlos Ruiz

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Sendero Los Quetzales, Nivida Bat Cave, Metropolitan Natural Park

History: Under Spanish control until 1821 when it joined Nueva Granada, Ecuador and Venezuela in the Republic of Gran Colombia, gradually separating over the years.

Architecture: Panama Viejo, Bridge of the Americas

Culture: Heavily influenced by European traditions, art and music introduced to the country by the Spanish

Sport: Baseball, Boxing, Basketball, Volleyball, Taekwondo, Football, Golf, Tennis

Events: Carnaval (before Ash Wednesday), Feria de las Flores, Jazz Festivals

Watch Out For: Proof of a return journey from Panama may be needed to gain entry - make sure to fully research the requirements for different entry points.

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters may be advised for you - check here for a good general overview, but always consult with a doctor.