Capital: Panama City

Population (Estimated July 2012): 3,510,045

Area: 74,177km² or 28,640mi²

Currency: Balboa (B)

Official Language: Spanish

Political Information: Presidential Republic

Official Religion: No Official Religion
(approximately 85% of the population are Roman Catholic and 15% are Protestant)

Highest Mountain: Volcan Baru at 3,475m or 11,401ft

GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a country’s economic power)

(Estimated 2011): $30.2 billion (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): (US$) or (GBP)

GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and the use of resources but is not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States) 

 (Estimated 2011): $48.76 billion (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): $13,600 (US$) or (GBP)

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): -5:00

Wildlife:

Counties/Provinces/States: 9 provinces (provincias, singular – provincia) and 3 indigenous territories* (comarcas); Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui, Cocle, Colon, Darien, Embera-Wounaan*, Herrera, Kuna Yala*, Los Santos, Ngobe-Bugle*, Panama, Veraguas

Leaders: President Ricardo Martinelli and Vice President Juan Carlos Varela.

Additional: Gained independence from Spain on the 28^th of November 1821 and Gained independence from Colombia on the 3^rd of November 1903.

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Panama

Panama, officially known as the Republic of Panama, is a country situated in Central America. It shares borders with Costa Rica to the west, Colombia to the southeast, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. The capital and largest city of Panama is Panama City, which serves as the cultural and economic centre of the country.

Panama is renowned for its famous Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and is a vital route for international maritime trade. The country boasts a rich history and diverse culture, with influences from indigenous tribes, Spanish colonialism, and African heritage. Panama is also home to a wide variety of wildlife and natural wonders, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts.

Panama has a population of over 4 million people, comprising a mix of ethnicities including mestizo, indigenous, Afro-Panamanian, and European descent. The official language is Spanish, and the country has a strong Catholic influence due to its history of Spanish colonisation. Panama has a democratic government and a growing economy, with a focus on international trade and tourism.

The country has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty, Panama has become a popular destination for travellers seeking adventure and relaxation in a unique and vibrant setting.

Summary

• Panama is a diverse and vibrant country located in Central America, known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and thriving economy.
• The geography of Panama is characterized by lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and the famous Panama Canal, while the climate is tropical with a wet and dry season.
• The history and culture of Panama are influenced by indigenous tribes, Spanish colonialism, and Afro-Caribbean traditions, resulting in a unique and diverse cultural heritage.
• Panama’s economy is driven by the Panama Canal, banking, and tourism, with a growing focus on sustainable industries and renewable energy.
• Tourism in Panama is booming, offering visitors a wide range of activities including eco-tourism, adventure sports, and cultural experiences in cities like Panama City and Casco Viejo.
• Panama is home to a rich variety of wildlife and natural wonders, including diverse ecosystems, exotic animals, and breathtaking landscapes.
• In conclusion, Panama’s future looks promising with continued economic growth, sustainable development, and a commitment to preserving its natural and cultural treasures.

Geography and Climate of Panama

Geographical Diversity

The terrain of Panama is diverse, with mountain ranges, rainforests, coastal plains, and over 1,500 islands scattered along its coasts.

The Panama Canal and Regional Divisions

The most prominent geographical feature of Panama is the Panama Canal, which stretches 50 miles across the country and serves as a vital waterway for global trade. The canal also divides the country into two distinct regions: the western half, known as the Azuero Peninsula, and the eastern half, known as the Darien Gap.

Climate and Natural Phenomena

Panama has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country experiences two main seasons: the dry season from December to April and the wet season from May to November. The wet season brings heavy rainfall and occasional tropical storms, particularly in the Caribbean region. The Pacific coast tends to be drier than the Caribbean coast, with more consistent temperatures and less precipitation. Due to its geographical location, Panama is also prone to seismic activity and occasional volcanic eruptions. Despite these natural challenges, Panama’s diverse geography and climate make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, surfing, and snorkelling.

History and Culture of Panama

Panama has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement dating back to at least 12,000 BC. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Kuna, Embera, Ngobe-Bugle, and Wounaan, each with their own unique languages, customs, and traditions. In 1501, Spanish explorer Rodrigo de Bastidas became the first European to explore the isthmus of Panama, leading to the eventual conquest of the region by Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century. Panama became an important hub for Spanish trade and commerce due to its strategic location and natural resources, particularly gold.

The influence of Spanish colonialism can still be seen in Panama’s architecture, cuisine, music, and religious practices. The country gained independence from Spain in 1821 and later became part of Gran Colombia before finally achieving full sovereignty in 1903. Panama’s unique cultural heritage is also influenced by African traditions brought by enslaved people during the colonial era.

This blend of indigenous, Spanish, and African cultures has created a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape in Panama. Today, Panama celebrates its rich history and cultural diversity through festivals, music, dance, art, and cuisine that reflect its unique blend of influences.

Economy and Industry in Panama

Panama has a rapidly growing economy driven by international trade, banking, tourism, and logistics. The country’s strategic location as a bridge between North and South America has made it a key player in global commerce. The Panama Canal is one of the most important waterways in the world, facilitating the transit of millions of tons of cargo each year.

In addition to the canal, Panama has developed a strong service-based economy with a focus on banking, insurance, and offshore financial services. The country is also investing in infrastructure development, including ports, airports, and telecommunications, to further support its role as a regional business hub. Tourism is another major contributor to Panama’s economy, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.

The country offers a wide range of attractions for tourists, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, historic sites, and vibrant cities. Panama’s diverse landscape provides opportunities for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and luxury travel experiences. The government has also invested in promoting sustainable tourism practices to preserve the country’s natural resources while supporting local communities.

Tourism in Panama

Panama has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. The country offers a wide range of attractions for visitors, from its famous canal to its stunning natural landscapes. One of the most iconic landmarks in Panama is the Panama Canal, which can be explored through guided tours or by visiting the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center.

The canal is not only an engineering marvel but also an important historical site that offers insight into its construction and impact on global trade. For nature enthusiasts, Panama boasts an incredible biodiversity with over 10,000 species of plants and 1,500 species of birds. Visitors can explore national parks such as Soberania National Park or Darien National Park to experience the country’s rich flora and fauna.

The archipelago of Bocas del Toro is another popular destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, diving, surfing, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches. In addition to its natural beauty, Panama also offers a rich cultural experience with its historic sites such as Casco Viejo in Panama City.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutique hotels, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can also immerse themselves in local culture by attending traditional festivals such as Carnival or exploring indigenous communities to learn about their customs and traditions.

Wildlife and Nature in Panama

Panama is home to an incredible array of wildlife and natural wonders due to its diverse ecosystems that include rainforests, mountains, wetlands, and coastal areas. The country’s strategic location as a land bridge between North and South America has contributed to its rich biodiversity with over 220 mammal species and 1,000 bird species. One of the most famous inhabitants of Panama’s rainforests is the elusive jaguar, which can be spotted in protected areas such as the Darien National Park.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the opportunity to spot rare species such as the resplendent quetzal or the harpy eagle in their natural habitats. Panama is also home to several species of monkeys including howler monkeys, capuchins, and spider monkeys that can be observed swinging through the treetops in national parks like Soberania or Chagres. The marine life in Panama is equally impressive with opportunities for whale watching in the Pacific Ocean or observing sea turtles nesting on remote beaches along the Caribbean coast.

Snorkelling or diving enthusiasts can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful fish in marine protected areas like Coiba National Park or Gulf of Chiriqui National Park.

Conclusion and Future of Panama

In conclusion, Panama is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, stunning natural beauty, and a growing economy that positions it as an attractive destination for travellers from around the world. Its strategic location as a bridge between continents has made it an important player in global trade while its natural attractions have made it a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor activities. The future of Panama looks promising as it continues to invest in infrastructure development to support its role as a regional business hub while promoting sustainable tourism practices to preserve its natural resources for future generations.

With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonders, Panama is poised to continue attracting visitors seeking unforgettable experiences in this vibrant Central American gem.

FAQs

What is the capital of Panama?

The capital of Panama is Panama City.

What is the official language of Panama?

The official language of Panama is Spanish.

What is the currency of Panama?

The currency of Panama is the Panamanian balboa, which is equivalent in value to the United States dollar.

What is the climate like in Panama?

Panama has a tropical climate with a wet season from May to December and a dry season from January to April.

What are some popular tourist attractions in Panama?

Popular tourist attractions in Panama include the Panama Canal, the San Blas Islands, Bocas del Toro, and the historic district of Casco Viejo in Panama City.

What is the population of Panama?

As of 2021, the population of Panama is estimated to be around 4.3 million people.

What is the Panama Canal?

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, allowing ships to avoid the long and treacherous journey around the southern tip of South America. It is a key strategic and economic asset for global trade.