Panama is a Central American country located on the Isthmus of Panama, a thin land bridge between North and South America. Panama, known as the “Crossroads of the Americas,” enjoys a vibrant mix of cultural influences, which can be seen in the country’s cuisine, artwork, music, and literature.
This tropical nation, which encompasses the isthmus and more than 1,600 islands off its Atlantic and Pacific coasts, is best known as the location of the Panama Canal. Crossing the Panama Canal is a must-do for many cruisers. The Panama Canal slices Panama through the middle and is one of the world’s most vital shipping routes. From its entrance on the Atlantic side in Colon, it travels south to a site in the broadest portion of Gatun Lake, passing via the Gatun Locks on the way. Its capital, Panama City, on the Pacific coast, is the most developed city in Central America and the region’s financial and shipping hub.
Taking the restored Panama Railway from the Pacific to the Atlantic is another fantastic shore excursion option. It runs next to the Canal and offers great views from the luxuriously decorated train cars. Another fascinating option is to go on a rain forest hike in Gamboa or to see an actual Embera Indian village on the Chagres River.