7 Cool Things To Do in Panama That Are NOT Touristy!
You’ve got your Lonely Planet and Frommers guide for all the go-to’s on the Panama Tourist Trail. And yes, the Panama Canal is one spot you already know to visit and you’ve read all about Geisha coffee. But what about the cool things to do in Panama that are harder to find? Here’s 10 we know you’ll love.
Shop Like a Local in Panama
1. Buy a Pair of Cutarras
These handmade leather shoes are worn everyday by locals in the ‘interior’ of Panama. Our rural farming areas. Worn by everyone - cattle herders, fisherman, women and children. The craftsmanship is beautiful and you can get a variety of styles. Look out for these gems at artisanal markets and roadside stalls as you travel through rural Panama. Better yet, buy a few! They make great gifts for family and friends and you’re supporting the local communities with your purchase.
2. Buy a Real Panama Hat
Not to be confused with the ubiquitous white ‘Panama Hat’, which is actually from Ecuador and usually machine made these days. The traditional Panama hat displays a round brim, often flipped upwards in front when worn by the farmers. It is handmade, beautiful and it lasts. Just like the Gutaras, you’ll see every member of the family wearing one. Look out for these in the artisanal markers and roadside stalls.
3. Taste the Best Hot Sauce (Salsa Picante) in all of Central America!
OK so maybe we’re biased, but seriously everyone who tries this wants to buy it and also proclaim it’s the best hot sauce they have ever had! D’elicas comes in 2 variants - mild, which you’ll find in green, and hot, which you’ll find in orange. You can get it at any supermarket. If you’re traveling with a carry on remember to buy the small bottle, less than 100ml. Enjoy it with your breakfast beans and corn tortillas in the morning and your fresh fish ceviche in the day!
Adventurous Things to Do in Panama
4. Learn to Surf in Magical Santa Catalina with Local Pro Surfers
This is a great way to support local surfers AND learn to surf in perfect conditions. Santa Catalina is the best beach to learn to surf in Panama, with gentle waves than neighboring Pacific beaches of Venao and Cambutal and more consistent than Bocas Del Toro. Santa Catalina is also home to the 2019 & 2018 National Champions of Surf, Kelvin Gonzales and Juan Carlos (Oli) Camarena. Here at Waluaa, you can learn to surf with these passionate and professional surf coaches, and help to support them on their journey’s too.
Learn more about our Surf Lessons & Signature Waluaa Surf & Yoga Experience in Magical Santa Catalina.
Experience Panama Like an Insider
5. La Casa de Lourdes, Valle Anton
This gem is tucked in the stunning mountain landscape of Valle Anton, just an hour or so out of Panama City. Walking into the foyer you are immediately transported to the home of a Panamanian family. The walls are adorned with photos and historic memorabilia. The library filled, floor to ceiling with books, and inside the bathroom door you see draped hats and coats for wet weather days. Outside on the patio is the restaurant. The food and drinks are incredible and the service, warm, professional and hospitable. If you can spend a night there and stay in one of their stunning rooms and enjoy the grounds we highly recommend!
Learn More:
https://www.lacasadelourdes.com
6. Explore Casco Viejo with Ex-Gang Members
This is the kind of tour you’ll talk about back home. Led by graduates of the Esperanza S.F, a gang intervention and reinvention program. The Fortaleza Tour takes you through what used to be the heart of gang territory, formerly “Ciudad de Dios”. Hear firsthand what life was like growing up there, the history of the buildings and the streets you cross. Learn how these ex-gang members are changing their lives for the better and inspiring others to do the same. This is a unique way to experience the historic town of Casco Viejo that you won’t read about in a guide book! The tour is in Spanish and a translator is available on request.
For reservations we recommend booking through Casco Antiguo Spanish School:
https://cascospanish.com/portfolio-items/fortaleza-ex-gang-member-tour/
7. Jazz Music at its Finest
In the outside wing of the American Trade Hotel you’ll see a discrete opening to the Danilo’s Jazz Club. This intimate jazz club hosts a mix of international and local jazz artists. Opened by grammy-winning, internationally renowned Panamanian jazz pianist and composer Danilo Perez in 2014. This is the place to toast in your Saturday night in Casco Viejo. They have a great little bar menu as well and the cocktails are sublime.
For reservations go to:
