There is plenty for families to do in Las Cumbres, Panama. For those interested in animal life, the Monkey Island Reserve is perfect for a day trip. Just off the coast, this small island is home to a variety of monkeys, iguanas, and birds. Visitors can take a tour of the reserve and learn about the different animals that live there. Another great option for families is the Panama Canal Railway. This historic train ride passes through some of Panama’s most beautiful scenery, including rainforests and the Canal itself. Along the way, passengers can learn about the history of the Canal and see firsthand how it operates. Finally, no trip to Panama would be complete without a visit to the Panama Canal Museum. This world-class museum tells the story of the Canal, from its early beginnings to its present-day operations. Families can spend an afternoon exploring the museum’s interactive exhibits and learning about the engineering feat that is the Panama Canal.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Las Cumbres, Panama
#1 Visit the Panama Canal- One of the most popular tourist attractions in Panama, the Panama Canal is a must-see for any first-time visitor. Stretching 80 kilometers from Panama City to the Atlantic Ocean, the canal is a man-made wonder that is still in use today. Take a boat ride through the locks, see the giant ships pass by, and learn about the history of this engineering feat at the Canal Museum.
#2 Go birdwatching in the rainforest- Panama is home to over 940 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Head to the Soberania National Park just outside of Panama City to spot toucans, macaws, and rare Harpy Eagles. Or, take a boat ride through the Chagres National Park to see toucans, herons, and kingfishers up close.
#3 Swim with dolphins- Panama is one of the best places in the world to swim with dolphins. There are several dolphin sanctuaries and rescue centers along the coast where you can swim and play with these friendly creatures. There are also dolphin-watching boat tours available in many parts of the country.
#4 Visit a indigenous village- Panama is home to several indigenous groups, including the Guna, Embera, and Kuna. Many of these groups live in remote villages located in the rainforest or on offshore islands. Visit a village to learn about their traditional way of life, see their handcrafted goods, and perhaps even stay overnight in a traditional hut.
#5 Hike through a cloud forest- Panama has several cloud forests, which are rainforests that are constantly shrouded in fog or low-hanging clouds. These unique ecosystems are home to many rare plants and animals, including the resplendent quetzal. Hike through the cloud forest of Cerro Brujo on Isla Bastimentos or the one at El Valle de Anton.
#6 Go surfing- With its warm waters and year-round waves, Panama is a great place to go surfing. Popular spots include the Pacific beaches of Santa Catalina and Isla Taboga, and the Atlantic beach of Bocas del Toro. There are also several surf schools located around the country, where you can learn the basics or take your surfing to the next level.
#7 Go island hopping- Panama has over 1,500 islands dotted along its coastline. Many of these islands are uninhabited and make for a great day of exploring and swimming. The most popular island-hopping destination is the Archipelago de Las Perlas, where you can find deserted beaches, coral reefs, and lush jungle.
#8 Take a coffee plantation tour- Panama is one of the world’s leading producers of specialty coffee. Visit a coffee plantation to learn about the different varieties of coffee grown in the country and see how they are harvested and roasted. Many plantations offer tours and tastings, and some even have overnight accommodations.
#9 Explore a colonial town- Panama is home to several well-preserved colonial towns, built during the country’s time as a Spanish colony. Explore the streets and plazas of Casco Viejo in Panama City, visit the cobblestone streets of Portobelo, or wander through the colonial buildings of Anton.
#10 Go wildlife watching- Panama is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, from monkeys and sloths to reptiles and birds.Spot these creatures in their natural habitats by taking a jungle tour, going on a safari, or taking a boat ride through one of the country’s many national parks.
