Panama has never been an ultra-popular country for U.S. tourists in Central America despite boasting natural resources just as rich as its neighbors’, endless miles of coastline both on the Caribbean and Pacific, and a fascinating cultural heritage.
It’s somehow been historically overshadowed by bigger destinations like Costa Rica and Guatemala, but that trend seems to be reversing at an unprecedented rate:
During the first half of the year, a record-breaking 1.7 million tourists landed in Panama, a 13% increase over 2023, according to figures reported by PROMTUR, Panama’s Tourism Promotion Fund––surprisingly, leading Central American country Costa Rica registered 1.5 million.
It’s never been trendier to visit than it is right now, and it might breach the 2 million mark before year’s end, marking a first since records began, but why is it suddenly so popular, and what has it got to offer Americans?
Unspoiled Nature
We’ve noticed a growing number of Americans favoring more meaningful experiences as of late, a.k.a they’re actively seeking destinations that are not yet spoiled by mass tourism, and that feel somehow ‘untouched‘ by their peers.
In short, they want exclusivity, and if there’s one thing Panama can offer, it’s undeveloped coastal strips and tropical jungles that have barely seen the footsteps of Man:
Think a verdant Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, home to the country’s highest volcanic peak, a trail-traversed Boquete, a charming small town at the edge of verdant jungle, or even the resort islands of San Blas, surrounded by the teal-colored waters of the Caribbean.
If you love nature and being in the Tropics but can’t stand the surging crowds of Quintana Roo and the staggeringly-high prices of Costa Rica put you off visiting, then Panama is that ‘happy medium’ that won’t break the bank:
Affordable Prices
Speaking of prices, Panama is one of the most affordable Latin American getaways out there:
Booking a one-bedroom, bungalow-style house for one night in Isla Diablo, one of the islets in San Blas reserved exclusively for international tourism, within only a few steps of a white-sand beach, will only set you back by $70 a night.
Even all-inclusive stays are more affordable in this part of the world, with deluxe king room in Splendid San Blas setting you back by a reasonable $200 a night (excluding the local tax).
In Panama City, a five-star stay at the Riu Plaza Panama will cost you an incredibly cheap $115––good luck trying to find a four-star hotel at a similar rate in Costa Rica or Mexico––and it goes as low as $28 a night at inexpensive, non-luxurious listings like Hotel Pension Corona.
When it comes to food, tourists spend an average $23 per day on meals (you definitely don’t want to leave without Panama City trying Nomada Eatery’s sancocho), or $52 if it’s three-course menus in more upscale restaurants.
Incredible Culture
Panama’s greatest attraction is undoubtedly its nature, but that’s not to say it falls short on delivery when it comes to culture:
Its capital, Panama City, may look like your average Central American metropolis at first, with clusters upon clusters of towering skyscrapers as far as the eyes can see, but it in fact hides one of the best-preserved historic centers in the entire New World.
Casco Viejo is filled with colonial buildings, some dating back as early as the 16th century, most notably the Spanish-built Metropolitan Cathedral and the ancient ruins of the Iglesia de la Campania de Jesus, one of the very first European-established Christian sites on this side of the Atlantic.
If you’re short on time and you’re keen on seeing all of Panama City’s highlights, this private city tour including the Old Town, as well as the Panama Canal, a marvel of modern engineering that connects the Caribbean to the Pacific, costs from only $78.60 to book.
Panama Is A Level 2 Destination
Last but definitely not least, Panama is one of the least dangerous Central American destinations for U.S. travelers.
We know the region has made significant progress in tackling drug trafficking and gang violence, particularly in countries like El Salvador and Costa Rica, but there’s still a lot of ‘cleaning’ to be done for it to reach the safety level it aspires to.
Nevertheless, Panama is not one of the worst affected by crime: Numbeo notes the level of crime in the country is a ‘moderate’ 47.34, and the U.S. State Department itself, the highest authority when it comes to issuing travel advice, has added Panama to its Level 2 list.
In non-technical terms, it is about as safe as Mexico when it comes to tourism, meaning you should simply exercise ‘increased caution’ when traveling, such as keeping valuables out of sight, sticking to well-reputed tour agencies, and avoiding exploring untouristy areas alone at night.
According to the official entity, the only areas that should be avoided altogether are the Mosquito Gulf and the Darien Region.
Luckily, Panama City, San Blas, and other tourist-friendly destinations like Coiba and Boquete are not included in the no-go zones.
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