Discover Panama
A destination where luxury meets adventure
Panama is far more than its famous canal. This tropical country offers pristine Caribbean beaches, lush rainforests, a vibrant cultural scene, and one of the most dynamic economies in Latin America.
From the paradise islands of San Blas to the mountains of Boquete, from the imposing engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to the humpback whales of the Pacific, this small Central American country is a giant in unforgettable experiences. With Spongi, we invite you to discover the best of Panama from the comfort of our luxury properties on the Caribbean, the Pacific, and in Panama City.
Why Visit Panama?
Panama offers a unique combination of pristine beaches, lush nature, vibrant culture, and investment opportunities that make it the perfect destination.
Two-Ocean Beaches
Panama is the only country in the Americas where you can enjoy both the Caribbean and the Pacific. From turquoise coral reef waters on the Caribbean to spectacular sunsets and whale watching on the Pacific.
Vibrant Culture
From the colonial old quarter to the modern skyline of Panama City, the country offers a rich blend of history, cuisine, and nightlife.
Lush Nature
With over 30% of its territory under protection, Panama is home to extraordinary biodiversity, including tropical rainforests, untouched islands, and volcanoes.
Smart Investment
Panama offers tax incentives, the US dollar as its official currency, and a steadily growing real estate market.
Tropical Climate
Warm temperatures year-round between 25°C and 32°C. The dry season (December through April) is perfect for vacations.
Easy Access
The Hub of the Americas - Tocumen International Airport connects with direct flights from North America, Europe, and all of Latin America.
Playa Escondida, Colón
Our exclusive paradise
Located on Panama's Caribbean coast, Playa Escondida is an exclusive residential and tourist development offering private beaches, 24-hour security, and access to the most crystalline waters of the Panamanian Caribbean. Just 2 hours from Panama City, it is the perfect escape from the urban bustle.
- 2 km of private white sand beach and turquoise waters
- Private marina with 4 docks and 24/7 security
- Just 1 hour from Panama City by road
- Beachfront villas, apartments, and overwater villas
Panama Must-See
The country's top-rated destinations, from beaches to mountains
Casco Viejo
UNESCO Heritage and the historic heart of Panama
Panama City
Where modern meets colonial
San Blas Islands
365 islands of untouched paradise
Bocas del Toro
The most bohemian and vibrant Caribbean
Portobelo
Colonial fortresses and living history
Boquete
Mountains, coffee, and Volcán Barú
Coiba National Park
The Galápagos of Central America
El Valle de Antón
The world's largest inhabited crater
Fort San Lorenzo
Spanish colonial fortress above the Chagres River
Gamboa & Soberanía Park
Rainforest 40 minutes from the capital
Explore Panama
From pristine Caribbean beaches to volcanic mountains, discover the country's most stunning destinations
Coclé
Pacific beaches, resorts, and the crater valley
The province of Coclé offers a perfect mix of Pacific beaches, world-class resorts like Buenaventura, and the magical El Valle de Antón nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano. From Río Hato to Penonomé, Coclé is Panamanians' favorite weekend getaway destination.
Veraguas
From Pacific to Caribbean: surf, jungle, and biodiversity
Veraguas is the only province in Panama with coastline on both oceans. It's home to Coiba National Park (UNESCO Heritage), the world-class waves of Santa Catalina, and the tranquility of Santiago de Veraguas with its lakeside restaurants.
Chiriquí
Coffee highlands and the Barú volcano
Chiriquí is Panama's highland province, home to Volcán Barú (the country's highest point at 3,475m), Boquete's world-class coffee plantations, and spring-like weather year-round. It's the top destination for ecotourism, quetzal watching, and gourmet coffee.
Panama City
Where modern meets colonial
Panama's capital is a vibrant metropolis where ultra-modern skyscrapers coexist with the charm of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Panama Canal's Miraflores Locks, stroll the Amador Causeway, explore the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo, enjoy cuisine at rooftop bars, and discover a cosmopolitan nightlife.
San Blas Islands
365 islands of untouched paradise
The Guna Yala archipelago, known as San Blas, is one of the planet's most incredible natural wonders. 365 white-sand palm-fringed islands surrounded by impossibly turquoise waters, governed by the indigenous Guna people. No resorts, no crowds — just pure nature and a fascinating ancestral culture.
Bocas del Toro
The most bohemian and vibrant Caribbean
Tropical island archipelago in Panama's Caribbean with a bohemian vibe, spectacular beaches, overwater lodges, surfing, starfish diving, and lively nightlife. Isla Colón is the hub, but the beaches of Isla Bastimentos like Red Frog Beach and Playa Wizard are the most stunning.
Colón Province
The gateway to Panama's Caribbean
Colón Province is the gateway to Panama's Caribbean, home to pristine coastlines, Spanish colonial forts declared UNESCO Heritage, vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, and the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal. Here you'll find our beach properties at Playa Escondida, just one hour from Panama City but in a completely different world of tropical jungle, turquoise waters, and Caribbean rhythm.
Pearl Islands
Pacific tropical islands
Archipelago of over 200 islands in the Gulf of Panama, famous for Contadora and Isla del Rey. White-sand beaches, crystal-clear Pacific waters, humpback whale watching (July-October), shark diving, and a fascinating history of pirates and pearls dating to colonial times.
Gamboa & Soberanía Park
Rainforest 40 minutes from the capital
Gamboa is a small town on the banks of the Chagres River and Panama Canal, surrounded by Soberanía National Park. One of the world's top birdwatching destinations with Pipeline Road (over 400 species), Lake Gatún excursions, Emberá community visits, and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Just 40 minutes from Panama City.
Taboga Island
The island of flowers steps from the capital
Known as the "Island of Flowers," Taboga is a tropical getaway just 30 minutes by ferry from the Amador Causeway. Quiet beaches, one of the oldest churches in the Western Hemisphere (1524), cobblestone streets with colorful houses, pelicans, and frigatebirds. Perfect for a beach day without leaving the city behind.
Panama in Pictures
A glimpse of the most spectacular landscapes awaiting you
Things to Do in Panama
Unforgettable adventures and experiences near our properties
2-4 hours Snorkeling & Diving
Explore Panama's coral reefs and incredible marine life. From the Caribbean to Coiba on the Pacific, discover sea turtles, tropical fish, whale sharks...
2-3 hours Surfing in Panama
Panama's waves offer surfing for all levels. Santa Catalina, about 3 hours from Buenaventura, is Central America's #1 surf spot — perfect as a day tri...
1-3 hours Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Paddle along Panama's coastlines by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Explore mangroves, hidden coves, and observe marine life from above in calm, transp...
Deep Sea Fishing
Panama's waters offer exceptional fishing on both coasts. Catch marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and more in the Caribbean or Pacific with experienced local c...
Rainforest Hiking
Venture into Panama's tropical rainforest trails. Discover hidden waterfalls, centuries-old trees, iguanas, howler monkeys, and an incredible diversit...
3-6 hours Birdwatching
Panama is home to over 1,000 bird species, more than all of North America. Spot toucans, macaws, hummingbirds, harpy eagles, and dozens of endemic spe...
Panama Canal Tour
Visit one of the modern engineering marvels. Watch massive ships pass through the Miraflores Locks, explore the interactive museum, and learn the fasc...
Full day San Blas Islands
Day trip to the paradisiacal San Blas Islands, home of the indigenous Guna Yala people. 365 white-sand islands with palm trees, impossibly turquoise w...
Casco Viejo Walking Tour
Walk the cobblestone streets of Panama City's old quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Colonial churches, historic plazas, rooftop bars, art galleri...
3-4 hours Panamanian Cooking Class
Learn to prepare Panama's signature dishes with local chefs. From Caribbean ceviche to Panamanian sancocho, discover the flavors and secrets of our cu...
Zipline & Canopy Tour
Fly over the canopy of Panama's tropical rainforest. Feel the adrenaline while enjoying panoramic views of the jungle, ocean, and mountains from high ...
4-6 hours Whale Watching
From July to October, humpback whales migrate to Panama's warm waters to breed. A magical and unforgettable experience watching these giants of the se...
4-5 hours World-Class Golf
Buenaventura Golf Club is Panama's premier golf jewel. It features an 18-hole par-72 championship course (7,324 yards) designed by legend Jack Nicklau...
Full day Island Hopping — Pearl Islands
Explore the Pearl Islands archipelago in Panama's Pacific. Over 200 islands with pristine beaches, crystal waters, humpback whale sighting (July-Octob...
Catamaran Sailing
Sail Panama's Pacific or Caribbean waters on a luxury catamaran. Enjoy snacks, drinks, and spectacular views while stopping at deserted islands for sw...
2-4 hours Spa & Wellness
Relax with spa treatments inspired by Panamanian tropical ingredients: cacao, coffee, coconut, and exotic flowers. Oceanfront massages, sunrise yoga, ...
Boquete Coffee Tour
Visit Boquete's coffee farms where the legendary Geisha coffee is produced, one of the world's most exclusive. Learn the bean-to-cup process, taste pr...
Emberá Village Visit
Navigate by dugout canoe up the Chagres River to an indigenous Emberá community in the rainforest. Learn about their ancestral traditions, dances, tag...
Beach Horseback Riding
Ride along Pacific beaches at sunset or through tropical forest trails. Available in Buenaventura and nearby areas, the experience combines nature, ad...
1-1.5 hours Sunset Yoga
Practice yoga with the sound of waves and the colors of a Panamanian sunset as your backdrop. Sessions for all levels at our beach properties, with ce...
Jet Ski Along the Pacific Coast
Race across Pacific waters on a jet ski from Playa Blanca, with trips out to Isla Farallón where you can swim with tropical fish. Rides from 30 minute...
ATV Jungle Tour
Blast through tropical jungle on an ATV, crossing rivers, mud trails, and hidden paths to reach a secret waterfall with optional cliff jumping. A 3-4 ...
La India Dormida Hike
Hike to the summit of La India Dormida in El Valle de Antón, a volcanic crater village. Discover pre-Columbian petroglyphs, hidden waterfalls, and stu...
2 hours Chorro El Macho Waterfall & Canopy
Discover the imposing 35-meter waterfall hidden in the lush crater jungle. It offers hanging bridges, ecological trails, a natural pool, and an exciti...
1.5 hours El Níspero Zoo
Nestled at the foothills of Mount Cara Iguana, this zoo and botanical garden rescues and conserves endangered species and is home to the famous El Val...
1 hour Hot Springs
Visit the natural volcanic clay hot springs arising from the crater. Relax your muscles in the mineral-rich pools and cover yourself in therapeutic mu...
Portobelo Colonial Forts
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage colonial forts in Portobelo: San Jerónimo, Santiago, and San Fernando. These fortifications guarded the gold and sil...
Full day Isla Grande — Caribbean Paradise
A car-free Caribbean island just 30 minutes by boat from La Guaira. White sand beaches, coral reef snorkeling, a hike to the historic lighthouse, and ...
Half day Scuba Diving in Portobelo Bay
Over 16 dive sites in Portobelo Bay including a sunken cargo ship and a WWII plane. Constant 80°F water, vibrant corals, sea turtles, and eagle rays. ...
World-Class Shopping
Panama offers world-class shopping: Multiplaza with luxury brands, Albrook Mall with 700+ stores, and SOHO Mall featuring Prada, Chanel, and Louis Vui...
Soberanía Rainforest Aerial Tram
Soar 280 feet above the rainforest canopy on the aerial tram in Soberanía National Park. Spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans from above, right next to t...
Afro-Caribbean Congo Culture
Experience the Congo culture of Portobelo, a UNESCO Intangible Heritage. Traditional dances, drum music, and art workshops at the Casa Congo cultural ...
1-3 hours Stand Up Paddleboarding
Stand up paddleboarding is one of the most relaxing ways to explore Panama's crystal-clear waters. Glide over calm Caribbean waves, paddle through hid...
3-4 hours Chocolate & Cacao Farm Tour
Discover the complete process of artisanal Panamanian chocolate, from cacao tree to finished bar. Panama produces some of the world's finest cacao, es...
2-3 hours Sunset Sailing
Sail Panama's Pacific waters on a sailboat as the sun sinks below the horizon, painting the sky in orange and pink. Sunset sailing tours depart from t...
2 hours Bioluminescence Night Kayaking
Paddle a kayak under the stars while the water glows with every stroke of your paddle. Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon caused by microorganism...
2-3 hours Mangrove Boat Tour
Navigate by boat through Panama's labyrinthine mangrove channels, vital ecosystems harboring incredible biodiversity. The Pacific coast mangroves near...
4-6 hours Waterfall Rappelling
Descend tropical waterfalls surrounded by lush jungle in one of Panama's most thrilling adventures. Waterfall rappelling (canyoning) combines jungle t...
2-4 hours River Tubing
Float down a tropical river on an inflatable tube, passing through jungle canopy tunnels, gentle rapids, and crystal-clear pools. River tubing is one ...
Full day (8-10 hours) Pearl Islands Day Trip
The Pearl Islands are an archipelago of over 200 islands and islets in the Gulf of Panama, famous for white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and as the...
El Caño Archaeological Park
Discover a 1,000-year-old pre-Columbian archaeological site where tombs of Coclé chieftains adorned with gold breastplates, arm cuffs, and thousands o...
Colonial Natá de los Caballeros Tour
Visit the oldest continuously active church in the Americas, founded in 1522. The Basílica Menor Santiago Apóstol features wooden altars carved by ind...
Sombrero Pintao Workshop in La Pintada
Visit the birthplace of the sombrero pintao, Panama's national hat and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (2017). In La Pintada, artisan families hav...
Isla Farallón Boat Excursion
Sail 15 minutes from Buenaventura Marina to this volcanic Pacific island covered in cacti and white rock. Hundreds of pelicans, frigatebirds, and corm...
Fort San Lorenzo (UNESCO)
Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1595 to guard the mouth of the Chagres River. One of the finest examples of Spanish colonial military a...
3-4 hours Agua Clara Locks (Panama Canal)
The newest Panama Canal visitor center (2016) and the only place to see the massive expanded Neopanamax locks up close. Perched on a hilltop, it provi...
Historic Nombre de Dios Village
One of the first European settlements on the American mainland, founded in 1510. It was Spain's primary Caribbean port and starting point of the Camin...
Chagres National Park Hiking
Explore this massive 129,000-hectare national park that protects the watershed providing 40% of the Panama Canal's water supply. Home to over 400 bird...
Isla Mamey
A small uninhabited Caribbean island with pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, just 5 minutes by boat from Puerto Lindo. The shallow...
3-4 hours Portobelo Snorkeling Tour
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Portobelo Bay and discover coral reefs full of colorful marine life. A guided half-day tour perfect for the whol...
Santa Clara Beach Day
Enjoy the soft white sand and calm blue waters of Santa Clara Beach. Excellent for swimming and relaxing with fewer crowds....
2-3 hours Safarick's Zoo
Located in Maria Chiquita, very close to Playa Escondida. An interactive rescue zoo and botanical garden where you can see monkeys, toucans, sloths, b...
Half or Full day Isla Mamey Excursion
Visit a dazzling Caribbean island surrounded by palm trees, a paradise of crystal clear waters ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing. Easily ac...
1-2 hours El Valle Thermal Springs
Immerse yourself in healing volcanic mud pools and warm thermal waters directly in the heart of the extinct crater of El Valle de Anton. A natural spa...
2-3 hours Los Cajones de Chame
Explore an impressive narrow gorge or canyon carved from volcanic rock by the Chame River. You can swim and cool off in the natural pools formed betwe...
1-2 hours Buenaventura Wildlife Rescue Center
A conservation center and zoo within Buenaventura dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of native species. An excellent, educational family activ...
1-3 hours Corotú Spa Buenaventura
A wellness sanctuary surrounded by lush nature. Corotú Spa offers hydrotherapy circuits, relaxing massages, and body treatments inspired by local ingr...
Buenaventura Sports Club
World-class sports center equipped with Padel courts, multiple Tennis courts, Basketball courts, and a semi-olympic training pool. Perfect for staying...
Buenaventura Equestrian Club
Explore the nature and beaches of the resort on horseback. The Equestrian Club offers guided tours along scenic routes and riding lessons in its spaci...
Variable (1 - 8 hours) Buenaventura Marina & Water Sports
The modern Buenaventura Marina is your starting point for water activities. It offers world-class luxury yacht rentals, deep-sea fishing charters, Jet...
Panama Viejo Historic Tour
Walk through the archaeological site of the first Spanish city founded on the American Pacific coast in 1519. Discover the majestic Cathedral Tower an...
1-2 hours Walk & Bike at Cinta Costera
Enjoy kilometers of wide paths and bike lanes along the Pacific Ocean. Watch the skyscrapers turn golden at sunset while locals enjoy recreational act...
Flexible Parque Omar Recreation
Minutes from Dovle luxury, this 65+ hectare wooded park is the city's natural escape. Perfect for families, meditation, or exercise beneath giant tree...
1 hour (as a stop) Spider Monkey Island (Linton)
Take a boat ride from Puerto Lindo towards Linton Island, home to a curious community of spider monkeys introduced decades ago. Watch their agile arbo...
1 hour Boat Exploration: Tunnel of Love
Navigate a tranquil Caribbean mangrove ecosystem where lush branches form a spectacular passageway. This natural sanctuary is full of peace, birdsong,...
Panamanian Cuisine: Traditional Dishes
Complete guide to Panamanian food — corvina ceviche, sancocho, patacones, ropa vieja, arroz con pollo and more dishes you must try
Ceviche Panameño
Fresh corvina chunks marinated in lime juice with red onion, cilantro, chombo pepper, and a touch of hot sauce. Served with crispy patacones. The star appetizer of Panamanian cuisine.
Sancocho Panameño
Panama's national dish. A comforting stew of free-range hen slow-cooked with yam, culantro (not cilantro), oregano, and corn. Every family has their secret recipe passed down through generations.
Patacones
Green plantain slices smashed and twice-fried until golden and crispy. Served as a side dish with almost everything in Panama, from ceviches to meats. The favorite snack of Panamanians!
Arroz con Pollo
Annatto-tinted rice cooked with shredded chicken, olives, capers, peppers, and a sofrito of onion and garlic. A comforting dish present at every Panamanian celebration.
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef slow-cooked in tomato sauce with onion, peppers, garlic, and Creole spices. Its name ("old clothes") comes from the appearance of the shredded meat. A Caribbean cuisine classic.
Carimañolas
Yuca balls stuffed with seasoned ground beef, wrapped in a soft yuca dough and fried until golden. A traditional Panamanian snack perfect for breakfast or a midday treat.
Raspao
Shaved ice drenched in natural tropical fruit syrups like tamarind, soursop, orange, and strawberry. Topped with condensed milk and a cherry. Panama's most popular street refreshment.
Ron Abuelo
Panama's premium rum, distilled since 1908 in the Herrera region. From Ron Abuelo Añejo to the exclusive 30-year Centuria. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a tropical cocktail at sunset.
Tropical Wildlife
Encounters with the most amazing nature of the American continent
Toucans
The rainbow-billed toucan is one of Panama's most iconic birds. Its colorful beak of red, green, blue, and yellow makes it unmistakable in the tropical tree canopy.
Tropical rainforest
Sloths
The adorable three-toed sloths are regular residents of Panama's forests. They spend most of the day sleeping while hanging from trees, moving with a calm that inspires relaxation.
Coastal forests
Sea Turtles
Panama's Caribbean beaches are nesting sites for hawksbill, green, and leatherback turtles. From March to September, you can witness the miracle of hatchlings making their way to the sea.
Caribbean beaches Howler Monkeys
Howler monkeys are the natural alarm of Panama's jungle. Their roar can be heard for miles. Often seen in family groups leaping between trees near our properties.
Jungle & coastPlan Your Adventure
Suggested itineraries to make the most of your Panama visit
Quick Getaway
Perfect for a long weekend
Casco Viejo, Panama Canal, dinner at a panoramic restaurant
Beach relaxation, snorkeling, kayaking, sunset cocktails
UNESCO colonial fortress tour, diving, return
Adventure Week
Caribbean, culture, and nature
Panama Canal, Biomuseo, Casco Viejo, nightlife
Property check-in, private beach, snorkeling, cooking class
UNESCO fortresses, jungle hiking, wildlife spotting
Full-day excursion, paradise islands, Guna Yala culture
Morning surf or kayak, deep-sea fishing, sunset return
Complete Panama
The ultimate Panama experience
Arrival, Casco Viejo, Panama Canal, Amador Causeway
Settle into luxury property, beach, reef snorkeling
Colonial fortresses, diving, tropical rainforest hiking
Full day on paradise islands, indigenous Guna culture
Golf on Jack Nicklaus course, Corotú Spa, Pacific gourmet dinner
Hot springs, artisan market, crater hiking, zipline
Biomuseo, Multiplaza or Albrook Mall, farewell dinner in Casco Viejo
Traveler's Guide
Essential tips to make your Panama trip perfect
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (December-April) is ideal with sunny days and minimal rain. The green season (May-November) offers lower prices, fewer tourists, and lush nature. Average temperature is 27°C (80°F) year-round.
Currency & Payments
Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) as official currency alongside the Balboa (1:1 parity). Credit cards accepted at most establishments. ATH ATMs available nationwide. 10% tips are customary at restaurants.
Getting Around
Air Panama domestic flights connect major cities (30-60 min). Uber works in Panama City. Car rentals available at Tocumen airport. For Playa Escondida, we recommend private transfer or rental car (1 hour via highway).
What to Pack
Light cotton clothing, swimwear, SPF 50+ sunscreen, insect repellent, water shoes for snorkeling, hat or cap, long-sleeve shirt for jungle excursions, and a light jacket for air-conditioned restaurants.
Safety
Panama is one of the safest countries in Central America. Tourist areas and resorts are very safe. Playa Escondida has 24/7 security and private access. As with any destination, use common sense and avoid isolated areas at night.
Health & Vaccines
No mandatory vaccines required for most travelers. Yellow fever recommended if coming from endemic areas. Tap water is drinkable in Panama City and urban areas. World-class hospitals in the capital (Hospital Punta Pacífica, Johns Hopkins affiliate).
Ready for your next adventure?
Book your luxury beachfront stay in Panama and create unforgettable memories.