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Panama Ecotourism:
Central America's Secret Treasure
Panama ecotourism has been a natural development. Geographically, the Republic of Panama is situated between two continents and between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Being the southernmost country in Central America, Panama is the natural land bridge between North and South America, making it the transcontinental home to many species that call each of the Americas home.
Panama: A Green Treasure Trove
Teeming with wildlife and flora, Panama boasts over 220 mammals, 354 varieties of reptiles and amphibians, 1,000 species of birds, 1,500 species of trees, and over 10,000 species of plants. If you are a birder, you will likely want to visit any of the several world-renowned birding sites like the cloud forest refuge of the Baru Volcano, the Pipeline Road in Soberania National Park, and Cana Valley in Darien National Park, which is perhaps the top birding site in Central America. Another fantastic Panama ecotourism destination is the the Barro Colorado wildlife refuge at Lake Gaton where Smithsonian scientists have a base.
Green in many senses of the word, Panama is preserving its ecological treasures by creating an impressive national park system, covering almost one-third of the country. More than a dozen forest reserves, 10 wildlife refuges, and 14 national parks mark Panama's commitment to maintaining natural habitats and sustaining native species. But off its coasts, Panama entices ecotravelers with coral reefs for excellent snorkeling and island groups for spectacular diving. If you are lucky, you might even get to see whales playing off Coiba Island National Park and marine turtles laying their eggs on the beaches of Playa Larga. Those seeking thrills above the water, can enjoy day sailing, kayaking and parasailing in this Caribbean paradise.
Culture in the Balance:
Indigenous Group Creates Success Story
Costa Rica is one of the most popular and populous Central American ecotourism destinations. But Panama ecotourism, while still a little off the beaten path, offers a richness in diversity of ethnic cultures that make it a well-rounded experience for eco-holidays. Among the melting pot of mestizo, Caribbean, Spanish, and Chinese, seven groups of indigenous peoples still exist in Panama. In particular, the Kuna society, an indigenous population of about 53,000 Indians living along Panama's northeast coast, is a case study of how to successfully balance preservation of a native culture while embracing ecotourism and its western influences, but in a limited and regulated way within their autonomous territory. The Kuna Indians are known for their molas, or embroidered panels that are sewn together to make women's blouses. The applique or embroidery reflects traditional themes and the molas, in demand with tourists and art collectors, have become a valuable income source, helping the Kuna improve their quality of life without sacrificing their culture.
Wildlife, nature, and native culture are available in spades in this relatively small nation. Panama ecotourism is fertile with something for everyone.
For help with booking a Panama Ecotourism holiday, check out Budget Ecotravel for tips on going green for less.
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