CENTRAL CARIBBEAN COAST

The strip of Caribbean coastline that stretches from the mouth of the Río Chagres east toward the border of the Comarca de Kuna Yala is rich in history and even richer in natural beauty. Evidence of the former include the well-preserved ruins of Spanish forts, built to protect looted Inca treasure, as well as some of the most awe-inspiring structures of the Panama Canal. The area’s natural attractions can be found among the mangroves, coral reefs, beaches, and forests that still abound with wildlife. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular and easily accessible in the warm Caribbean waters, home to brilliant tropical fish and ancient shipwrecks that are still being discovered. All this is within a two-hour drive from Panama City.

The Portobelo area in particular has long been a favorite place for Panamanian and American locals to enjoy water sports, especially scuba diving. While the diving and visibility is better elsewhere, it’s quite convenient here. Other dive spots include the waters around Isla Grande, which also has one surf break.

This is prime bird-watching country. The Audubon Society once identified 350 species on a single day during its annual Christmas Bird Count. Other activities include organized walks through the forest and a short boat ride to the mouth of the historic Río Chagres.

Gatún Locks: The largest (one mile long) and most impressive set of locks at the Panama Canal, raising and lowering ships 85 feet in three giant steps. (read more)

Gatún Dam: Once the world’s largest earthen dam, it’s right next door to Gatún Locks and is an impressive sight when the spillway is open. (read more)

Fuerte San Lorenzo and Área Protegida San Lorenzo: A surprisingly intact Spanish fort at the mouth of the Río Chagres and the end of the fabled Camino de Cruces, in the heart of one of Panama’s newest protected forests, Área Protegida San Lorenzo. (read more)

Portobelo Ruins: The battered remains of one of the most important, pirate-pestered ports in the Spanish empire. (read more)

Church and Museum of the Black Christ: Home to Panama’s most revered Catholic icon, the Black Christ, and the epicenter of its most spectacular religious festival. (read more)