The Canal Generates A Third of Panama’s Economy
It's no secret that the Panama Canal is one of Panama's most renowned landmarks. What you may not know is the canal, besides being a world-renowned feat of engineering and a transcontinental shipping shortcut, is also a critical component of Panama's economy. It generates up to a third of the country's entire economy. The canal was transferred from US to Panamanian control in 1999 and serves about 14,000 ships each year.
World’s Largest Shipping Registry
Panama operates the world's largest ship registry, dwarfing other nations by a significant margin. As of 2018, the Panama Registry had more than 8,000 vessels registered, making it an essential hub in the global shipping industry.
Panama, the Country of Islands
Panama has more islands than most people could visit in a lifetime. It's estimated that the country has about 1,500 islands. However, not all of them are inhabited. Many of the smaller ones are protected national parks, making Panama a dream destination for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Kuna Revolution in San Blas
In Panama, there's a place where women rule- the San Blas islands. This area is home to the indigenous Kuna people who staged a successful revolt against Panama in the early 20th century, establishing autonomy with women at the helm. To this day, the Kuna maintain their own political system and have a matrilineal society.
A Museum Designed by Frank Gehry
The Biomuseo in Panama is Latin America's only museum designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The museum, notable for its colorful, abstract design, serves as an educational hub for Panama's vast biodiversity.
Home of Harpy Eagles
Panama is home to the Harpy Eagle, the national bird, and one of the largest and most powerful eagles globally. This majestic bird, with a wing-span of up to two meters, can be found in Panama's rainforest, and it's considered a type of national treasure.
The Oldest European Settlement On The Pacific
Panama Viejo was the first European settlement along the Pacific coastline. Established in 1519 by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias Dávila, the ruins can still be visited today and are a fascinating insight into early colonial life in the Americas.
Only Place to See Sunrise on the Pacific and Sunset on the Atlantic
Due to Panama's unique S-shaped curve, it's the only place in the world where you can visually see the sun rise from the Pacific Ocean and set into the Atlantic.
Transcontinental Country
Panama is considered a transcontinental country as it sits on both North and Central America. This unique geographical positioning is why Panama has such incredible biodiversity and wide-ranging landscapes.
Only Capital City With a Rainforest
Panama City is the only capital in the world that has a rainforest within its city limits. The Metropolitan Natural Park, a 15-minute drive from the city center, is a jungle teeming with wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.
World’s Deadliest Pathway Once Existed in Panama
The Camino de Cruces, once known as the world's deadliest road, is located in Panama. This 80-kilometer long royal road constructed during the Spanish colonial era, caused the death of many due to the harsh conditions and diseases.
Record-Breaking Designer Biodiversity
Panama is a cornucopia of biodiversity, having more different bird species than the United States and Canada combined. It’s also home to over 10,000 plant species, 218 mammal species, and 226 species of reptiles.
The Golden Frog Myth
Panama's traditional gold and green frog is thought to be extinct in the wild, but it remains an important cultural icon. Legend says these frogs turn into gold talismans when they die.
Straw Hats Are Not Originally from Panama
Panama Hats are not made in Panama but in Ecuador. The misconception began when gold miners traveled to California through Panama, purchasing these straw hats from Ecuador.
The Second Largest Duty-Free Zone
The Colon Free Zone in Panama, after Hong Kong, is the world's second-largest duty-free zone. It's a center of enormous amount of trading and merchandise moving activity, with more than 2500 companies and 30,000 employees.
Panama’s Floating Village
The Guna Yala region in northwest Panama is home to a community that lives on the San Blas Islands, leading many to call it Panama's floating village. The residents maintain a traditional way of life, largely fishing and farming.
A Currency Named After Balboa
Panama’s official currency is the Panamanian Balboa. Named after Spanish explorer, Vasco Núñez de Balboa, who discovered the Pacific Ocean, it's tied to the US dollar at a one-to-one ratio.
Ever-Changing Landscape
Panama is constantly undergoing changes due to its active geology. From volcanic activity to consistent seismic activity, the nation is known for its ever-changing landscape.
World's Most Expensive Coffee
Panama is the producer of the world's most expensive coffee. Known as “Geisha” or “Gesha,” a pound of these beans can sell for hundreds of dollars, primarily due to their unique flavor and limited quantities.
Panama's Separation from Colombia
On November 3, 1903, Panama gained its independence from Colombia with the help of the United States in a bid to construct the Panama Canal. This annual celebration is one of the most significant national holidays in Panama.