See Panamá with Copa Stopover program

By: redacción / Editorial Board Panorama de las Américas

Photos: Javier A. Pinzón y Archivo Panorama

The slogan for Copa’s Stopover program -“Panama has it all and it’s all nearby”- could not be more accurate. The Isthmus provides a gamut of diverse, vibrant tourism experiences within a small radius, making it all easily accessible. All Copa passengers with a layover at the Tocumen International Airport can extend their stay in Panama for up to seven days without incurring additional airfare costs, allowing them to delight in two destinations for one fare. Come with us and discover how to make the most of your time in Panama, Welcome!

If You're Interested in Architecture

The Old Quarter, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a unique blend of colonial, neoclassical, and art deco, with cobblestone streets, historic churches like the Metropolitan Cathedral, and building like the Santo Domingo Convent, the Arco Chato (Flat Arch), the National Theater, France Square, the Panama Canal Museum, the Mola Museum, and Our Lady of Mercy Church, among others. The El Cangrejo neighborhood stands out for its by contemporary structures and public art. Many buildings in Bellavista and La Exposición recall Panama’s Republican period, reflecting the economic boom of the 20th century with broad avenues and elegant homes. Old Panama, where the original city, was founded in 1519, offers fascinating colonial ruins, such as the iconic Cathedral Tower, rising from history and offering views of the Pacific Ocean.

Copa is investing in this initiative, which has a particulas emphasis on U.S., Colombian, Argentinen, and Brazilian markets, with the hope of attracting some 300,000 tourists by 2026.

If you're interested in wining and dining

The ritual of “Chinese breakfast” (dim sum), inhereted from a culture with more than two hundred years of history in Panama, has become an indispensable part of Panamanian gastronomy. Anyone fond of haute cuisine will want to sample restaurants such as Fonda Lo Que Hay, Maito, Tapa del Coco, Cantina del Tigre, and Íntimo- all featured on the prestigious “The 50 Best Restaurants of Latin America” list- which celebrate creativity and local flavors. Geisha coffee, one of the most exclusive and renowed varities, offers a sensory experience in cafes like Sisu, Unido, Leto, and Mentiritas Blancas, as well as hotels like Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo. Tasting of rum and artisan beer, at Pedro Mandinga and Casa Bruja, respectively, will lead you on exploration of the bounteous creativity of Panama and the quality of its product.

If You Love Nature

The metropolis of Panama City is set amidst the most luxuriant greenery. It would be a shame to visit this country without escaping into nature. In the Gamboa and Lake Gatún area, tourists can marvel at the flora and fauna of the Panama Canal by taking boat trips, visiting the sloth sanctuary, and touring Isla de los Monos (Monkey Island) or Isla Barro Colorado, an important tropical research center. Located right in the middle of the city, the Metropolitan Natural Park is a green haven where you can wander for over seven miles along paths that wind through tropical forests. For those seeking beaches and translucent waters, Taboga, known as Flower Island, or the more remote Mogo Mogo in the Pearl Archipelago, are ideal for daytrips and enjoying the Panamanian coast.

Don't Miss It

If you’d like to cover the must-sees, we suggest planning your itinerary around these options.

Canal de Panamá

You can learn about the history of the construction of the Canal and watch the ships go by at the Miraflores Visitor Center. Confirm opening hours at visitcanaldepanama.com

Biomuseo

Located on the Amador Causeway, this iconinc museum designed by Frank Gehry celebrates the unique biodiveristy of the Isthmus.

Reserve tours for these and other experiences in Panama City and inland Panama through the platform gotuuri.com.

Canal Museum

An essential stop of you want to understand the history of the Panama Canal and its impact on the world. Don’t miss if you visit the Old Quarter.

Ancon Hill

The highest natural elevation in Panama City’s is a viewpoint of fering spectactular views and a chance to connect with nature.

Cinta Costera and Amador

perfect places for sweeping ocean views, outdoor activities, bicycling, and admiring the city skyline.

Are you staying several days and hoping to venture further afield?

The Stopover lets you remain in Panama up to seven days with no additional airfare costs. If you stay here more than 24 hours, we recommend these destinations:

Portobelo

Colonial port with historic fortifications ans the iconic Black Christ, = named an UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can snorkel and dive here, or hop, on a small to Venas Azules, Playa Huertas, or Puerto Francés.

El Valle

Pinturesque town nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano, amous for its handicrafts market and mountain panoramas with waterfalls. A good choice for hikers would be the Crater Route, a long path skirting the crater, which is divided into four trails: Cara Iguana, La India Dormida, Gaital-Berrales, and Macano-La Silla.

Emberá Community

An authentic cultural experience that will introduce you to the traditions, handicrafts, and ancestral lifestyle of the Emberá indigenous people living on the banks of the Chagres River.