Most popular Panama city tour right now? The San Blas islands and Guna Indians have been the subject of numerous National Geographic articles. Indeed your experience will be right out of the pages of National Geographic. They offer two unbeatable attractions: Caribbean islands of stunning pristine beauty and an opportunity to visit the Guna people, a living Indian culture with a fascinating culture and way of life. In 2011 Lonely Planet selected San Blas as the #3 tropical paradise in the world: “Look up ‘tropical paradise’ and there will probably be a picture of the Guna Yala archipelago. These small islands (also known as the San Blas Islands) are part of the semi-autonomous territory of the Guna people with are part of the semi-autonomous territory of the Guna people and feature palm trees, gorgeous beaches, thatched huts and timeless charm. Big business hasn’t gained a foothold because the Guna rule the roost, with a series of laws to preserve the natural environment. So no ugly hotels spoiling the view and no package tourism polluting the vibe, just plenty of uninhabited islands to explore.” Read additional info on Monkey Island.
I will never stop saying this: Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a hidden gem that you definitely shouldn’t miss when in Tulum. The Sian Kaan Lagoons and Cenote Escondido tour combines exploring the lagoons of Sian Kaan with the Mayan Ruins of Muyil, with a relaxing swim at beautiful cenote Escondido. Just the perfect combo. It’s pricey (all tours to Sian Ka’an generally are), but worth it IMO. This private cenote tour from Tulum brings you to Dos Ojos, one of the best (and most famous) cenotes in the area. By departing early in the morning, you’ll enjoy the two cenotes away from the tourist crowds – when I went as soon as it opened, I had Dos Ojos cenote all to myself and it was a unique experience! You’ll get lunch as well on this Dos Ojos cenote tour.
The Guna Yala (also known as Kuna Indians) are the indigenous people of the San Blas Islands. Originally occupying the border of Panama and Colombia, (when Panama was part of Colombia), the Kuna Indians began settling in the San Blas Archipelago around 1800. No tourists were allowed to the region until the 1940s, as the Kuna Indians operated an autonomous state separate from Panama. The Kuna have kept many of their cultural traditions intact, which are still thriving today. They originally wore few clothes and decorated their bodies with bright, colorful designs, but after Europeans arrived, the Kuna began making and wearing intricately woven molas, which are still present today. Travelers are now allowed to visit, and each island family works with local operators and each other to ensure guests have the best experience on a visit to the islands.
When I told you about Casco Viejo, I said this was the old part of the city. Although true, it’s not the oldest part. Panama Viejo is the oldest part of Panama City and today it’s an archaeological site that’s a popular place to visit in Panama City. Panama Viejo was actually the first city built on the pacific coast of the Americas and was an important trade route. Because of this, the city was often attacked by pirates. Unfortunately, pirates completely destroyed the city in 1671, and the ruins of the city’s former self only remain. These days, the ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the perfect place to visit to learn about the city’s history and importance during that time. The site has interpretive signs in both English and Spanish and only takes an hour or so to explore. This is a must-do activity for history buffs or those fascinated with pirates!
We had a wonderful boat trip on Lake Gatun. Saw so much; ships traveling the Panama Canal to lots of wildlife. Howler monkeys, iguanas, tamarins that came close for a little piece of banana. Sebastian, our guide was excellent. We then went for lunch on a houseboat followed by kayaking to a waterfall and swim. Picked up and dropped off at our hotel. Lake Gatun forms a major part of the Panama Canal, and on this guided boat tour from Panama City, you’ll be able to explore it. During the boat ride, spot different wildlife surrounding the lake, such as sloths, monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, birds, and more. After lunch, you’ll have the option to take a drip in a spring-fed natural pool, kayak in the lake, or go fishing. Find even more information on TaoTravel365.
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Panama’s most famous attraction is by far the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Watching a massive ship, piled high with colorful containers, gliding quietly into the locks reveals the true enormity of this great feat of engineering. Taking a boat tour through the canal gives you even more perspective. If you want to simply see the Panama Canal, the best place to do this is at the Miraflores Locks, about 25 minutes from downtown Panama City. You can see the canal from the five-story visitor center, complete with a small museum, a restaurant, and an IMAX theater in a separate building.