Experience Panama’s Sea, Mountains, and City Life: Top 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots

The Republic of Panama is a fascinating country located between North and South America. Its capital, Panama City, is a vibrant metropolis filled with skyscrapers, modern infrastructure, and excellent transportation. As a tourist destination, the city offers a mix of old and new—wander through the historic Casco Viejo with its colonial buildings, try your luck at modern casinos, join diverse city tours, or even take quick and fun Spanish lessons. Of course, one of the city’s most famous landmarks is the world-renowned Panama Canal, a must-see attraction for every visitor.

Across Panama, you’ll find many popular tourist spots, but due to the uneven infrastructure in some regions, traveling independently can be challenging for foreigners. That’s why most travelers join organized tours starting from Panama City. These tours often highlight Panama’s rich natural beauty—rainforests, wildlife reserves, and stunning landscapes. Some of these destinations are only accessible through guided tours, making them essential for an unforgettable Panamanian adventure. Use this as a travel guide to plan your trip and fully experience the wonders of Panama.

1. Butterfly Haven (El Valle de Antón)

Just a 10-minute walk from the bustling town center of El Valle de Antón lies Butterfly Haven, a sanctuary dedicated to the protection and preservation of butterflies. Inside its 140-square-meter covered house, you’ll find over 250 vibrant butterfly species fluttering freely in a lush, natural environment.
The facility was created to combat the decline in butterfly populations caused by urban development and pesticide use. Visitors can explore educational exhibits, a research lab, and resource materials available in both English and Spanish, offering insights into the butterfly’s life cycle and ecological importance.
Guided by friendly staff, you can witness the fascinating transformation of butterflies—from eggs to caterpillars, pupae, and finally, full-grown adults. Admission includes a free guided tour, making the experience both educational and memorable. For special occasions like birthdays or weddings, Butterfly Haven also offers the enchanting service of releasing butterflies, symbolizing beauty and new beginnings. Guests who are inspired can even learn how to establish their own butterfly sanctuary.

2. Volcán Barú National Park (Bocas del Toro Province)

Bordering Costa Rica’s UNESCO World Heritage Site La Amistad International Park, Volcán Barú National Park is a breathtaking highland destination centered around Panama’s tallest peak, Volcán Barú. This park is a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Trekking routes lead through alpine forests, allowing visitors to discover exotic highland plants, while adventure tours such as jungle expeditions and white-water rafting add extra excitement.
The nearby town of Boquete is world-famous for coffee production. In fact, it is here that Panama’s legendary Geisha Coffee—sold in premium cafés such as Starbucks Japan—originates. Many travelers enjoy joining coffee farm tours in Boquete, a must-do experience for coffee enthusiasts who want to taste one of the most exclusive coffees in the world.

3. Metropolitan Natural Park (Panama City)

If you want to escape the bustling atmosphere of Panama City and immerse yourself in nature, the Metropolitan Natural Park is the perfect destination. Located just 10 minutes away by taxi from the city center, this tropical rainforest within a modern metropolis offers a unique experience that travelers rarely find elsewhere. The striking contrast between the lush jungle and Panama’s skyline of tall buildings makes this spot a favorite among tourists.
Inside the park, there are five hiking trails, each of which can be completed in about an hour. Along the way, visitors can encounter a wide variety of wildlife such as exotic birds, butterflies, lizards, monkeys, and even sloths. A small stream also flows through the park, creating an oasis of greenery that feels worlds apart from the urban setting.
Since it is a tropical rainforest, temperatures can get very hot and humid depending on the season. Make sure to stay hydrated and prepare for the heat while exploring.

4. Darién National Park (Darién Province)

Darién National Park, located near the border with Colombia, was declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 1981. Known as one of the last untouched tropical rainforests in the Americas, it is home to vast mangrove forests, palm groves, and remote undeveloped areas that make it exceptionally valuable.
This park is a haven for biodiversity, with more than 1,000 species of orchids, medicinal plants traditionally used by Indigenous communities, and incredible wildlife such as capybaras, green iguanas, monkeys, raccoons, and pumas. Birdwatchers will also be delighted—over 1,000 bird species have been recorded here.
Indigenous Emberá and Kuna communities live inside the park, known for their vibrant clothing and body painting made from natural tree sap. Tours from Panama City allow visitors to experience their way of life. However, because much of the park remains wild and security can be unstable, it is recommended to join a reliable guided tour for safety.

5. Isla Perro (Kuna Yala Region, San Blas Islands)

The San Blas Islands, located in northeastern Panama, consist of over 350 islands and form part of the autonomous region of the Kuna people, who rely heavily on tourism. For many travelers, this entire archipelago is considered a must-visit destination. The easiest way to get there is by booking a tour from Panama City.
Among the islands, Isla Perro stands out for its crystal-clear waters and popularity with snorkelers. A nearby shipwreck has become a famous underwater attraction, where visitors can swim among colorful tropical fish and corals or explore the wreck itself. Bringing an underwater camera guarantees an unforgettable experience. Onshore, you can relax with beach volleyball, hammocks, and quiet leisure time.
Unlike luxury resorts, accommodations on the San Blas Islands are simple, sometimes with sandy-floor huts and basic facilities, making it perfect for those seeking a raw, authentic island escape.

◎ Summary

Panama is considered a country with unstable security, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ travel advisory. Most areas are classified under Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, while Darién Province is at Level 2: Avoid Non-Essential Travel. In addition, many regions lack proper infrastructure, so it is essential for travelers to prepare well—bringing necessary supplies and gathering safety information before departure.
Despite these challenges, Panama remains a destination filled with charm and must-see attractions. From its stunning natural landscapes to unique cultural experiences, Panama offers beauty and adventure worth discovering. If you’re planning your next trip, Panama’s breathtaking scenery is definitely worth the journey.

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Experience Panama’s Sea, Mountains, and City Life: Top 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots