Pearl Islands Panama. Pearl Islands of Panama Panama Pearl Islands Tours

The extreme islands of the archipelago are: northern - Pacheca Island, southern - Galera Island, eastern - Puercos Island, western - San Jose Island. Largest islands: Rey (with an area of about 232 km²), San Jose, Pedro Gonzalez, Viveros, Cañas, Bayoneta, Kasaya, Saboga, Chapego, Contadora, Santelmo and others. The relief of the islands is low, the highest point - 206 m - is located in the northwestern part of the island of Rey. Coastline heavily cut up. Some of the islands are surrounded by reefs. The air temperature on the islands throughout the year fluctuates in the range of +20..+30 °C; there are dry and wet seasons.

Story

The islands were discovered in 1513 by the Spanish conquistador Vasco Nunez Balboa. After the discovery of a new ocean, he met an Indian boat encrusted with pearls. The Indians told him about islands rich in pearls. The conquistador named these islands the Pearl Islands and declared them the property of the Spanish king.

La Peregrina, considered the largest pearl in the world, was mined on one of the islands. In the middle of the 17th century, the islands were called Royal (las islas del Rey). Due to the richness of the islands, as well as the presence of a large number of hidden bays and coves, pirates from England, Portugal and France often stopped in the archipelago. In 1938, the shellfish from which pearls were extracted were destroyed by red tide. As of 2003, pearl mining on the islands has not been resumed.

Not all tourists who vacation in Panama visit Contadora Island, but in vain. It was once a thriving resort, but now it is a forgotten place, attracting lovers of solitude, silence and tranquility. Next, we suggest going to virtual tour That's why wonderful place.

Off the coast of Panama there are 200 or more islands and islets that are part of the so-called Pearl Islands, many of them tiny, uninhabited, but all incredibly beautiful. But the main problem is that they are all located more than 50 kilometers from civilization. The islands were inhabited by indigenous peoples who were destroyed within two years of the Spanish discovery of the islands in 1513. The merciless policy of Gaspar de Morales, who first ruled these lands, began with the fact that he captured and killed 20 local leaders, or rather, he gave them to be devoured by his dogs. Afterwards, the island was used by pearl hunters, who exported jewelry to Spain throughout the 16th century.

In later years, the Pearl Islands were often used by pirates, but until the 1960s it was relatively quiet. Everything began to come to life again when tourists arrived on the islands.

When the Shah of Iran fled the revolution in 1979, he retreated to the Panamanian islands, which he quickly turned into playground for the rich and famous. Sophia Loren was a frequent visitor here in the eighties, and Christian Dior was also a regular here. The island also remembers the Kennedy family, Elizabeth Taylor and John Wayne.

The island's largest beach, Playa Larga (on the right in the photo), was part of the Contadora resort that was built in the 1960s. And this is what this paradise looks like today...

You don't need a ticket to visit this abandoned resort. Yes, there are people here, but there are not many of them here. In fact, this island is so extensive that the current owners of the island have done the right thing by running a tour desk on the island and renting out golf carts.

The hotel once boasted more than 300 rooms, and a bunch of ancillary and service buildings. It belonged to a Colombian drug lord, but after the main owner died in a plane crash in 2009 (leaving behind more than $10 million in debts), the most big resort the island began to decline.

The rooms and the hotel itself were looted, leaving only the buildings and their beautiful facades.

Above is a photo from the 1970s. Below are our days.

The Panamanian government is not interested in preserving the resort, so the island is served by entrepreneurs. Who is engaged in delivering tourists on the island, who is engaged in catering on the island, who cultural program, which consists of stories about the history of the resort.

It also has its own trick, sign, or whatever you want to call it. An old ferry washed up on the beach, which the former Colombian owners used to transport guests to the island...

In the depths of the island there are luxurious villas that never saw their owners.

There is a small shop here, so don't worry about running out of water and food.

Yes, the island is really beautiful, but to get to it from the mainland and back you will be asked to pay 90 US dollars and 40 dollars for using the beach.

I came to Panama having already traveled through Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico, but she found something to surprise me with. And if you are used to traveling through comfortable and cozy European countries, and then you want something exotic, then feel free to start exploring America del sur from Panama! Here the Latin American character with its eternal "I'll do it all later" and sunny smiles meets polished civilization. From this union an Americanized version of America del Sur is born - no longer, but not yet.

Imagine a state in which, as in neighboring countries, mainly developed Agriculture: Indian villages, spanish cities and numerous farms scattered among the hills and rivers. Life here flowed smoothly and quietly, and the life of the local residents was no different from how they lived in Colombia and other regions Central America... Everything changed overnight with the construction of the Panama Canal, which connected the waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Skyscrapers began to grow in the capital, and roads snaked between cities.

Today Panama is thriving: offshore companies flow here and ships sail from all over the world. High incomes made it possible to create a remarkable tourism infrastructure– and we, travelers, were not forced to wait!

Visa and border crossing

February 2015 was a happy month, because the authorities of the Republic of Panama decided to allow Russians to visit this fertile land without visas. You can stay in the country unhindered for up to 90 days. If you want to extend your stay, go to neighboring Costa Rica, Belize and Guatemala (besides, there is something to see there!) and return after another 3 months. The second option is to try to change your migration category and get a visa for work or study, for which you need to submit a corresponding application (as well as a passport, air tickets, housing reservations, photos and invitations to work/study) to the Panamanian authorities. Consular fee – $75. You can arrange for a half-day job at a hostel or bar and stay in Panama for as long as you wish.

At the border, in addition to your international passport (which must be valid for another 3 months from the date of entry), you may be asked for return tickets (it is better to have them printed or a screenshot on your phone, since Wi-Fi does not always work at the checkpoint).

Allegedly, the list of required documents for entry also includes proof of financial solvency (a bank statement or, at worst, a certificate from work). I crossed the border with Panama several times - they did not ask for such documents (apparently, I look quite presentable). But just in case, it’s better to have it with you. When preparing your statement, follow the standard rules - your account balance must be at least $50 for each day of your stay.

Are you planning to import excisable goods into Panama? 2 blocks of cigarettes and 5 liters of strong alcohol will not raise questions from customs services. As well as $10,000 in cash.

Animals and plants will enter the country only with a special permit or a certificate from a veterinarian, but it will not be possible to export delicious fruits or rubber tree seedlings - they will be taken away.

How to get there

The narrow isthmus of land between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans is bordered on the south by the jungles of Colombia, and on the north by the hills and forests of Costa Rica.

Most often tourists come here regular flights, ocean liners or land transport from other Mesoamerican countries.

By plane

Panama City is located 10 thousand kilometers from Moscow, so direct flight one can only dream. In practice, we get one (or more) transfer and the opportunity to look at other countries along the way.

Via USA

Flights from cities in the United States of America to Panama:

American Airlines from New York (John Kennedy Airport, JFK), Los Angeles (airport of the same name, LAX), Houston (airport named after George Bush, IAH), Dallas (Fort Worth, DFW), (airport of the same name, MIA) and others cities, the ticket price will be from $150 one way. For a ticket from Moscow you will have to pay at least $1300.
United Airlines from New York (JFK) and Houston (IAH). Prices start from $250 one way, and from Moscow with a transfer in one of these cities - from $1500/
Aeromexico from $100 one way from (Benito Juarez Airport, MEX), from $150 from (MIA) or from $500 round trip from Madrid (Barajas, MAD). A flight from Moscow will cost at least $1000.

At the same time, you need to remember that for docking you need American visa. I didn’t have one, so when I compared prices for tickets through America and through Europe, I mentally added at least $130 for the consular fee to obtain a visa.

Through Europe

There are many more options available European airlines:

Iberia flies daily from Madrid (MAD) - a one-way ticket will cost from 300 euros, and for a flight from Moscow and back you will have to pay from 700 euros. At the same time, the airline often organizes sales.
Lufthansa offers flights in a higher price range - the price for a flight from Frankfurt am Main (Rhine-Main Airport, FRA) starts from 400 euros, and a return flight from Moscow will cost about 900 euros.
KLM also operates daily flights from Amsterdam (Schiphol, AMS): from 500 euros per round trip. A ticket from Moscow will cost an inhumane sum of 1000 euros.
Air France, flying via (Charles de Gaulle, CDG) offers similar prices to KLM.

All flights land at Tocument International Airport (PTY) in Panama. Local airlines fly from the capital's Marcos A. Gelabert Airport. Tourists usually use the airports in Bocas del Toro (BOC), San Blas (NBL), Contadora (OTD) and David (Enrique Malec Airport, DAV).

You can compare flight options to Panama and choose the best one for yourself using this link.

By train

In Panama, like in any self-respecting country, there is a railway connection. Unfortunately for travelers, it is only cargo and connects the ports of two coasts. Therefore, it is impossible to use it to get into the country, and moving around it is utopian.

By bus

But the bus service is doing great! The bus fleet is in quite good condition, night buses are equipped with air conditioning (stock up on warm clothes), a toilet and a TV.

In addition to several museums, travelers are invited to entertain themselves by exploring the old city and the Panama Canal (those who have seen how hydroelectric power plants work will not be particularly interested), where ships usually pass through the locks at 9 am and in the afternoon. The restored quarters of Panama Vieja impressed me more like a museum under open air than parts of the city. In each house there is a hotel or restaurant, and rare local residents quickly walk through the block, hurrying about their business. But, besides the promenade along the fragrant lagoon, this the only place the capital, which is pleasant to stroll around. The center, lined with high-rise buildings, looks inviting from a distance, but upon inspection it turns out to be a labyrinth of narrow, littered streets, which I would strongly recommend getting around by metro, bus or taxi.

Colon

This is a fairly young city, dating back to the 1800s, so don't expect much architectural flourishes (except perhaps the charming Episcopal Church). But travelers come here not for the ancient houses and monuments, but for the free trade zone and huge amount wonderful restaurants, bars, yacht clubs and other entertainment. This is a big one sea port, in which huge bulk carriers and no less impressive ocean liners. The city is always full of life and people; representatives of all nationalities and professions come ashore here. In the bar you will see all shades of skin, eyes and hair, and hear hundreds of languages and dialects spoken. As you look around, don't forget to check your wallet and valuables.

Portobelo

Cozy and vintage colonial city, founded by the Spaniards in 1502 to transport gold from the colony to the dominion. For many centuries, the peace of its inhabitants was protected by four forts, designed to repel the encroachments of the French, British and pirates. Today, all that remains of them are dilapidated picturesque walls, from which a stunning view of the lagoon, full of slender white silhouettes of ships, opens.

The second reason to go to Portobelo is diving and snorkeling. Imagine the best coral reef in Panama and a graveyard of lost ships, and you will understand what attracts explorers of the deep here. Add to this the low prices for food and accommodation and you will want to anchor here for a long time.

David

One of the most major cities Panama City is located on the Pan-American Highway near the border with Costa Rica. This is the most important transport hub through which all bus and car routes. It itself is unremarkable - an ordinary hectic and slightly sloppy Latin American city where you can find excellent street food(and an equal chance to dine on something completely disgusting) and observe the real life of Panamanians. From here, forced marches are usually made to Costa Rica, Panama City or Bocas del Toro.

Bocas del Toro

A small town indeed large island The archipelago seems to be obsessed with pirates. When you go ashore at the boat station, you will see barkers walking around in characteristic costumes, and numerous signs for restaurants and shops will mercilessly exploit the pirate theme. Otherwise, this is a completely ordinary cute tourist town, one part of which never sleeps, and the other part is trying to live a normal life. Be sure to visit the second part, farthest from the water. For example, I attended a training session for the local school’s drum orchestra and bought a wonderful painting by a Panamanian artist. There are offices of all the world's car rental companies in the country; their offers can be viewed on the official websites. On average, a small car with a manual transmission can be rented from $20, a city SUV from $60, and an SUV from $100 per day. When planning your budget, you need to take into account the cost of gasoline ($1.5 per liter), toll roads(about $1 for a 30 km section) and parking (they are only available in cities and cost from $0.5 to $1 per hour).

Islands

Top attractions

What amazes and delights you most about Panama? Everyone will have their own answer to this question. I was awestruck by the untouched beauty national reserves, and the noise of the capital, and the comfort of colonial ports, and the scattering magnificent islands. Among these natural beauties it is very difficult to name one thing that is most outstanding. After all, the Pearl Islands are no less beautiful than Bocas del Toro or San Blas, and the virgin forests in the east of the country are in no way inferior to those in the west. But there is still something unique and unique in Panama.

Volcano Baru

The most high point Panama is a dormant volcano almost 3,500 meters above sea level. It is picturesque in itself, rising proudly among evergreen rainforests. But what makes it special and definitely worth a visit is the stunning view. On a clear day, the summit of the volcano, located near the southern border with Costa Rica, offers views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Climbing to the top of Baru is very popular among travelers. There are a few tourist routes from nearby cities and towns of varying length and complexity. The shortest (but also the most difficult, with frequent army ascents and descents) lasts about 13 km. A less scenic, but easier 22-kilometer trek leads from the city of Boquete. You can go as part of an organized group; such tours are sold both in the capital and in David; their prices start from $50.

Panama Canal

Perhaps even more than its appearance, what is striking about this building is its significance for the global economy. A sort of huge monument to unimaginable human efforts for profit. Connecting (or, in this case, it would be more correct to say “separating”) the two Americas, the canal passes through dozens of ships and many tons of cargo every day. The best time to watch the huge colossus move from lock to lock is in the morning or afternoon. But even if you don’t manage to see how the ship gets from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, you can always visit the museum at the canal and learn the history of its construction.

Star Beach

On one of the islands of Bocas del Toro, starfish bask on the golden sand under the gentle and transparent waves. Thanks to them, the beach got its name Playa de estrella. Admire the red stars on the yellow sand framed by the turquoise sea and soak up the gentle sun You can rent a boat in Colon or take a tour there.

Bridge of the Americas and Centennial Bridge

Two colossal buildings connecting the Northern and South America, spilled over the Panama Canal. The first one was built back in the 1960s and for a long time remained the only road bridge continuing the famous Pan-American Highway, until a second bridge was built in 2004, even more elegant and wide. Both of them are especially beautiful at night with the many lights reflected in the dark water.

Weather

Happy Panamanians know only two seasons: dry and wet. All year round the temperature hovers around +30 degrees and both coasts are open for swimming.

From November to April the weather is dry and sunny, all the resorts are full of tourists (mostly Americans) and prices for housing and food rise.

In the second half of the year - from May to October - rain reigns. They often bring heavy downpours over the coast and leave behind heavy humidity. Despite the cloudy sky, the tan turns out wonderful. This weather also discourages many tourists, so you can enjoy a cheaper and more secluded holiday. The exception, perhaps, is Valle de Anton, where, thanks to the elevation, the weather is generally excellent even during the rainy season.

The ideal time to visit Panama, in my opinion, is the off-season months - May and October. The main flow of vacationers has already subsided, and rare rains do not interfere with enjoying the trip at all.

Moving around the country

Panama is a fairly compact country: 800 kilometers from Costa Rica to Colombia and 100-300 kilometers between the two coasts.

Airplane

The fastest way to get around Panama is definitely by plane. Airpanama flies to David, Bocas Del Toro and other islands several times a day. One-way tickets start at $100.

Getting from the airport to the point you need in the city will not be difficult: a taxi to the center in Panama City will cost from $20, in other cities from $5, and a bus in the capital will cost $2.5 per person (however, it only runs during the day time and you can pay for travel only with a special card with a deposit), in the provinces - from $0.5.

Bus

Most cheap way transportation - bus. Bus service in Panama is excellently developed: there are several competing companies (the largest TicaBus and ExpresoPanama), which, in the fight for consumers, monitor the quality of the bus fleet and try not to raise prices.

Many flights depart daily from the Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City to the west and east. Daytime flights make quite a few stops, which is why they move slowly. More expensive night buses (a ticket for the Panama - David flight costs about $25) stop only on request and are considered express trains.

Night buses have a toilet and a TV, as is customary in Latin America, the air conditioner works mercilessly (put on all your warm clothes).
Tickets cannot be purchased online, only at the ticket office at the station. They are divided not by companies, but by directions of movement. The schedule can be found right there at the station or at the hotel. When purchasing a ticket you must present your passport. But when I forgot mine at the hotel, the ticket taker did not persist and simply asked me to write all my passport details on a piece of paper so that it would be convenient for him to enter them into the system. They also ask for your passport when boarding the bus.

The waiting rooms are also equipped with powerful air conditioners; sometimes, while waiting for the bus, I had to go outside to warm up. Toilets at train stations charge $1.

Car

Panama has excellent roads and polite drivers, and the serpentine roads central regions The country is just right to make the route scenic without straining the driver. Therefore, a rented car is an excellent option that allows you to comfortably explore the picturesque landscapes and admire the sights.

All branches of large rental companies operate in the country: Hertz, Alamo, Dollar and others. You can find out about car rental prices in Panama. When renting, you will need a driver's license and credit card to block a deposit, the size of which depends on the class of the car. They will most likely not ask for international licenses, but it is better to have them with you. Drivers under 21 years of age and over 72 years of age will receive an increased insurance rate when renting a car.

You can also rent a small car, since there are not many really bad roads in Panama. Rent will cost from $30 per day. The cost of gasoline is $0.9 per liter.
Toll roads are mainly found at the exit from cities; to travel along them you will have to pay about $1.5 per section.

Parking in cities is free, but special places are reserved for them. It is prohibited to stop in other places and you may be fined $50.

Connection

There are two main operators in Panama: Cable & Wireless Panama and BellSouth. Their prices are practically the same. Most cheap tariff includes 1 GB of Internet, 200 minutes of calls to numbers within the country and 300 SMS. It will cost about $8 per month. Calls to Russia cost approximately $1.2-$1.8 per minute.

In tourist regions, the connection is excellent; when moving around the country it may fail, but overall it is also not bad.

Wi-Fi is available in all hostels and hotels (at least in the reception area), as well as in most shopping centers and train stations in the capital. It's quite slow, but it's enough to check email or read a message.

Language and communication

As in most Latin American countries, official language in Panama is Spanish, which big influence influenced by the linguistic characteristics and traditions of the indigenous people. Modern Panamanians speak quickly, swallowing endings, which makes understanding very difficult. Native American tribes still speak their native languages.

But unlike many other countries in the region, English is widely spoken in Panama (it is still the recognized language of the financial market), so there is no fear of being misunderstood, especially in tourist areas.
But everyone likes to hear their native speech, so it’s worth learning a few phrases.

10 phrases that will come in handy while traveling

Since you are in Panama, the most necessary phrase will be “quiero registrar una empresa en la zone de liber comercio” (Quero registrar una empresa en la zone de liber comercio) - I want to register a company in your offshore :)
But seriously, first of all, of course, remember a couple of traditional greetings:
1. Buenas noches (Buenas nights) - good evening.
2. Buenos tardes (Buenos Tardes) - good afternoon.
3. Buenos dias (Buenos Dias) - good morning.
4. Hola (ola) - hello.
Panamanians are polite and friendly, so in their communication the phrase “Que tal” is inseparable from their greeting - how are you?
The most popular word is “buen” - good - it is used both as an answer to the question “how are you?”, and as a result of some discussion, and simply as filling a pause in a conversation.
Even if you don’t remember a single word of Spanish, learn “gracias” (gracias) - thank you - and don’t hesitate to say it to Panamanians all the time, then you will be guaranteed their goodwill!
There are several ways to say goodbye, as well as to say hello:
1. Adios (adios) - bye.
2. Chao (ciao) - bye.
3. Hasty mañana (hasta mañana) - see you tomorrow.
4. Hasta lluego (hasta luego) - see you soon.
Any journey involves moving through unfamiliar terrain. No matter how well we are equipped with modern navigation aids, sometimes we have to turn to help local residents. To do this, just ask “where is...?” – donde esta...(donde esta...), substituting the place you need at the end of the question.
The question “Cuanto es” (cuanto es) is not less common - how much does it cost?
In many situations: in a store, in a restaurant, at a train station, knowing the numbers from one to ten will be useful:
1. Uno (uno) - one.
2. Dos (dos) – two.
3. Tres (tres) – three.
4. Cuadro (cuadro) - four.
5. Cinco (cinco) - five.
6. Seis (seis) – six.
7. Siete (sieta) - seven.
8. Ocho (ocho) - eight.
9. Nueve (nueve) - nine.
10. Diez (diez) - ten.
In a restaurant, even if you say everything else in English or point your finger at a picture, you can please the waiter by asking him to bring the bill to his native language: “la cuenta por favor” (la cuenta por favor).

Features of mentality

Panamanians, like many of their counterparts living in Latin America, are distinguished by their openness and friendliness, laziness and optionality. Their habit of being at least an hour late and not fulfilling promises seriously affects the way business is done in this country.

And the love to embellish or even lie (especially if they asked something that a Panamanian does not know, which he will never admit to anyone), as well as to deceive white dupes can deliver several not the most pleasant minutes of your vacation.

But in general, these people are good-natured and smiling, ready to help.

Food and drink

Panamanians share their neighbors' love of rice, corn and beans. Here, as in Costa Rica, bananas are popular in all forms from chips to mashed potatoes. And, of course, not a single lunch is complete without meat with fresh vegetables and spices: onions, garlic, lemon juice, pepper, coconut milk.

Local residents mainly eat chicken and beef, much less often pork and fish, and almost never seafood, which only tourists can afford.

5 dishes worth trying

The most important dish, without which not a single meal is complete, is tortillas. They can be sweet or unsweetened, in the form of tubes or buns, with or without beginning.

Traditional sancocho soup - chicken broth with rice and spices - is loved by all Panamanians. Every cook has his own secrets and his favorite seasonings.

Tourists are mainly treated to gaucho de marisco seafood soup, the ingredients of which may vary, but the thickness and aroma remain the same on any coast.

The Spanish dessert bienmesabe has undergone significant changes in Panama and is made from rice, milk and sugar. This very sweet, jelly-like spread is best eaten with pancakes or flatbreads.

Panamanians prefer coconut water as a drink - on every corner merchants are ready to cut a green coconut with a sharp machete, throw a handful of ice inside and arm it with a straw.

Shopping

Panama is a great country for shopping! Souvenir lovers and fashionistas have plenty of places to roam.

What you need to know about shopping in this country

Firstly, in major cities and tourist regions, English is easily understood, which makes the shopping process easier.

Secondly, the popularity of Panama among American tourists stimulates the opening of new stores, so Panama has a full variety of fashion industry: from Prada and Versace boutiques to fashion brands of surfer and beachwear. And most importantly, the country has duty-free trade zones.

Prices for food and souvenirs in Panama are quite high, even compared to Costa Rica and Colombia. At the same time, if the quality of food is about the same level, then many souvenirs can only be found here.

Best cities for shopping

It is precisely because of tax-free that Colon is especially loved by shoppers. This international port, where ships from all over the world dock, looks like a consumer paradise. Here you can find Indian fabrics, Moroccan oils, Taiwanese electronics and much, much more. reasonable prices.

Sophisticated shoppers will love the capital with its numerous centers with boutiques of famous world brands in different price categories (Multiplaza Pacific Mall, Albrook Mall, Multicentro, AltaPlaza Mall and others).

In the centers beach holiday Mostly beachwear and numerous souvenir shops are presented. Moreover, each archipelago of islands has its own “specialization”:

Bocas del Toro has firmly established himself as a leader in the pirate theme.
The Pearl Islands, as you might guess, offer pearl products to everyone.
San Blas is one of the few places where handmade Indian products are sold.

What to bring from this country

As in all other countries, Panama has restrictions on the export of rare animals and plants. The list can be found at the airport or asked at the hotel reception. But it’s better to play it safe and not export any seeds, cuttings, fruits, insects or other animals.

As for tax-free and its registration, Panama is a country in which you don’t have to worry about it. It imposes taxes only on certain types of services, and not on goods. Therefore, tourists can make purchases without paying tax to the local budget and without having to register anything.

Vacation with children

The mild climate, magnificent beaches, fresh seafood and a variety of fruits create the conditions for a wonderful holiday with children. On the coasts Pacific Ocean And Caribbean Sea there are special family hotels, whose infrastructure is focused on the stay of the younger generation. And the Panama Canal, ancient buildings and natural beauty will not leave them indifferent.

Safety

Panama is enough safe country. With the exception of the eastern province of Darien, where the standard of living is quite low and armed groups can be found in the forests on the border with Colombia, the rest of the country is designed to enjoy tranquility. Street thefts and more serious crimes are rare here; a tourist can only suffer from being cheated out of change. However, this does not mean that you should neglect reasonable safety rules.

Popular types of scams

Due to their optionality and laziness, as well as their tendency to embellish reality, Panamanians may promise you something that they will not fulfill. Be prepared for the fact that with the promised private tour they will want to put a couple more passengers on your boat, that instead of 5 islands they will try to show you only 3, and the departure time may be shifted back and forth indefinitely.

5 things you definitely shouldn't do

Do not go to the forests in Darien without an accompanying person, and also without a yellow fever vaccination! Love thrill- jump with a parachute.

The outskirts of the city at night are not a suitable place for walking in any country in the world. At night it is better to take a taxi.
You should not leave valuables in plain sight in your hotel room. No matter how honest the maids and administrators are, why tempt their virtue.
There is no need to insult law enforcement officers and migration officials. Yes, they may be lazy, slow, or slow-witted, but a fine or other administrative penalty will in no way make your vacation any more enjoyable.
Don't be gullible travel companies and, especially, with private guides. Check everything that is written in the contract, repeat several times all the details of what you agreed on. And then be philosophical about the fact that these agreements will not be fulfilled, and play it safe: take a supply of water and sandwiches with you on the excursion, even if you promised to feed them; a towel and a mask, although they promised to provide it.

5 things you must do in this country

. Such a close relationship could not but affect the most important thing - money. Officially, the currency of Panama is considered to be a completely independent balboa. But they make it at the mint. Balboa to dollar exchange rate is 1:1.

For many years now, paper Balboa has been occasionally found in circulation - banknotes with American presidents are in circulation. Therefore, you don’t have to think about exchanging money at all, because dollars will be accepted with pleasure anywhere, from shops, restaurants to street stalls. As change, you can receive coins with the proud profile of the conquistodor, in honor of whom the Panamanian currency got its name - Vasco Nunez de Balboa.

In many places you can pay by card (when making a large purchase it is better to have your passport with you): shops, restaurants, transport companies, hotels, museums and national parks.

It is advisable to have cash with you (for example, to be able to quench your thirst with coconut water, which is sold here on every corner). ATMs are located in all major shopping centers and branches of local banks, of which there are a great many in the offshore country.

Pearl Islands or Archipelago de las Perlas as their original name is, are a 30-minute flight away on a small (up to 6 people) twin-engine Islander aircraft from Air Panama inside what looks more like a coffin with propellers.

You can also get to the Pearl Islands by ferry, or rather by ferries of two companies, and you can find the websites of these companies if you Google “ferry to perlas”, but we wanted to look at the city of Panama from a bird’s eye view just as we wanted to look at these very pearls from above islands.

I won’t torment you with information about who discovered these islands and why Balboa called them pearl islands - there’s Google for that and by formulating the right query you’ll find out everything (about the largest pearl found off the island of Contadora in the 16th century).

How to get from Russia to Panama

In fact, there are many options: they fly to Panama through the USA (you need a US visa), fly through Cuba or Europe - British Airways, Iberia, Air France or KLM
I chose to fly with KLM via Amsterdam. At check-in for the flight at Sheremetyevo Airport I received boarding tickets to Amsterdam and Panama. At the entrance to the pipe, the visa control officer at first stared at my passport like a sheep at the new gate, but then it dawned on him that I did not need a visa to Panama since I had a valid Schengen visa.
The flight took place in an economy class cabin, but in privileged rows called comfort-economy.
This is additional legroom (you can sit with your legs crossed) and an additional seat tilt and a thinned seating arrangement (there will be 2 people on a triple seat).
Travel time from Amsterdam to Panama - 11 hours, flew by unnoticed (slept)

How to get to Cantadora Island

Ferry or plane. To buy a ticket, go to the website Air Panama(the only company currently that flies here regularly) and buy - no problem.
Departure from the airport Albrook- not to be confused with international airport Tocuman Panama hats.
Albrook Airport is located next to the Panama Canal, almost within the city limits. His PAC code and name is Marcos A. Gelabert
I hope it's clear.

Mobile Internet in Panama

Simka Movil costs 5 dollars plus 4 dollars must be deposited into your account to have unlimited internet for a week. Plus taxes - it turns out to be 10 dollars and kopecks.
Didn't you know that Panama doesn't have its own currency?

Money in Panama

Panama does not have its own currency, and neither does Panama. Or rather, it exists and seems to have its own flag and anthem, as well as armed forces. But the whole of Panama belongs to the United States and you can talk as much as you like about democracy and independence... Try to say something at odds with US policy and you will be pulverized, just as General Manuel Noriega was removed at one time, who hinted at the nationalization of the Panama Canal (by the way, received at the complete disposal of the United States through bribery and deception, however, like most American affairs, Colombia

Panama visa

For those who have a valid multi-Schengen visa or a valid US visa: a Panama visa is not required.
On board the plane you must fill out an immigration card and a customs declaration. At passport control you will be photographed and fingerprinted (all fingers).

By the way, if you are going to Panama without a US visa (that is, you will not be able to fly through the US in transit), then the best option to get to this Central American, and in fact South American republic, is to take advantage of the offers of KLM airline and it is possible that the best option will pay an additional 120 euros to fly not in the usual economy class (of course it’s better to fly on a plane with gym, bath and masseuses), and in comfortable economy: this is an additional 10 cm between the seats, which is sometimes not enough, and an additional angle of inclination of the seat back - that is, you simply lie between the knees of the regular economy class passenger sitting behind you and he has nothing against.

The landing strip crosses the island from north to south from coast to coast since the island itself is small. And although the asphalt surface in the parking area of the corn workers is riddled with ruts, nevertheless, all the roads on the island are asphalt and people drive here mainly on Kawasaki buggies.
Can be rented.
Depending on the engine power and the number of seats, the price ranges from 45 to 100 dollars per day (hourly payment applies)
Gasoline in Panama is inexpensive, but I will talk about this in a separate chapter regarding Panama City and its surroundings.

There are 4 beaches on the island. I will not include the nudist beach and small coves in this number - they are not interesting and are usually private.

Playa Casique ( Playa Cacique) Maybe best beach on the island. Located on the south side. The main part of the beach is located near the Villa Romantica hotel. From the restaurant terrace of this hotel you can see the islands of the archipelago, including the one where the reality show Survivor was filmed

Contadora beach ( Contadora Resort) this large beach is located in the east of the island and on the site of a large hotel.
It is worth noting that this hotel belonged to a Colombian. The latter was killed by shooting down the helicopter in which he was flying to the island. All this was passed off as an accident, the case was hushed up, and the hotel was plundered and destroyed. Now there are remnants of former luxury with empty window sockets... But the land has not yet been divided.

Playa Galleon ( Playa Galeon) is located in the north of the island. Ferries from big land(from Panama City) and here there are 2 hotels (Gerald and The Point) and the beginning (or end, depending on the wind) runway Contadora Island Airport

The Perlos archipelago is famous for its uninhabited islands, which can be rented for mega-drinking or filming reality shows. The main thing is not to cut down trees, not to shoot at capybaras and deer, and not to leave garbage.
Renting a boat with a 50hp engine and an awning costs $35 per hour. Tomorrow we’ll take one and explore the islands located south of us.
Today a helicopter landed at the airport from which two scarecrows with dreadlocks fell out - it looks like they are filming something on the islands to the south. Tomorrow I’ll write about the results and what’s there

Sea voyage through the Las Perlas archipelago, Gulf of Panama, Pacific Ocean.

Description of the trip

Traveling to new places is our favorite pastime. New routes about which there are no reports on the Internet, tracks on Google maps or looks on social media. networks. There is a spirit of adventure in this. Then, of course, many will follow our routes. In the meantime, we invite you to a unique sailing trip lay new GPS tracks along the islands of the Las Perlas archipelago, explore uninhabited islands and wild beaches.

The Las Perlas archipelago consists of 200 islands, of which only 90 have a name. Most of the islands are uninhabited. The archipelago received its name Pearl Islands due to the fact that in the 16th century, the Spanish conquistador Vasco Nunez de Balboa, who discovered them, found many pearls in the waters. It was here that the famous Wandering Pearl was found, the owner of which was Elizabeth Taylor.
Sandy islands, massive atolls, amazingly beautiful lagoons and thickets of mangrove trees - nature has generously endowed this amazing place, making it home to endemic animal species and critically endangered plants.

The Pearl Islands of Panama are a treasure for visitors to enjoy endlessly. The land, the local flora and fauna, and the marine life that abounds in the coastal waters are what make this part of the world so special. In fact, this is the same place where the popular TV series Lost was filmed.

The Pearl Archipelago was previously inhabited only by pearl seekers and ruthless pirates. Today, hundreds of humpback whales come to this place in the summer with their calves and remain there until the babies grow up and gain enough strength to cope with the adversity of the ocean.
Water temperature from +25 C will allow you to engage in any kind of water sports and games, such as swimming and surfing, sailing, and snorkeling.

In short it will look like this:

Arriving in Panama -> jeep rental -> food purchase -> Transfer to the ocean coast ->overnight, catamaran assembly -> sailing around the islands of the archipelago -> overnight stays on the islands-> ... like this every day ... -> arrival in Panama City -> car rent -> Possibility of visiting the Panama Canal and Atlantic coast Panama -> flight Panama - Kyiv ->

Photo gallery of the trip

What's included in the price?

Trek budget: $1000

Does not include the cost of flights to Panama

This budget includes:
— All transfers within Panama.
— Overnight in hotels at the site of assembly and disassembly of the catamaran.
- Car rent
— Food for the entire duration of the trip.
— .
— Insurance (only for Kiev residents). If you are in another country or another city, you will have to arrange insurance yourself. Standard policies have a choice option: “occupations active species recreation and sports”, you need to choose sailing.
— Bivouac equipment.
— (designed specifically for this hike)
— Actually, the trip around the islands on an inflatable sailing catamaran itself.
— Mini-film about the trip and a memorable photo album.

HOW MUCH DOES A FLIGHT TO PANAMA COST?

A flight to Panama and back will cost you 800 - 1100$

Route

A completely new unique route. Route length – 300 km, optimal distance for three weeks.

Water route :

Video preview

Do you need special preparation or can anyone go?

We do not see any obstacles to the participation of any person in our sea voyage. Yes, it is advisable that you have experience participating in hiking trips. But this is not a necessary condition. This way you will have a better idea of what exactly awaits you.

The main thing is not to be a whiner and keep in mind that, despite all the romance, it really is not easy in places.

If you don’t know how, then we will be happy to teach you how to pitch a tent, sail a sailboat, make a fire, cook on it and a lot of other tourist stuff.

If you like to complain and mope, don’t imagine yourself outside the comfort of civilization, and need service personnel, then you’d better refrain from this trip.

Uniqueness of the trip

Really wild rest of the Robinsons

Alone with nature. No people around except our team. Secluded reserved corners uninhabited islands, inaccessible to the mass tourist.

Adventures

We are not a travel company. We scouted out the route, found out the plane schedule and know the intricacies of a sea voyage. But then everything depends on nature and our team. There will be adventures for sure! Verified :)

An exceptional travel format

"Bomb! Amazing! This cannot be put into words! This is so cool that you can’t even imagine!” - these are the words your friends will hear from you. And it will be true. You will have photographs that you can show to your grandchildren.

Real wild beaches

Every day there are new islands and beaches with clear turquoise water and clean sand. The richest underwater world.

New experience

During the hike you will learn all the little things about life as a traveler. You will become a seasoned sailor and seasoned tourist :)

Clearing the mind

Spending a long time alone with wildlife away from human vanity, clears thoughts. New creative ideas and ideas for business are born in my head. If you are at a crossroads in life and cannot make a decision, then such a trip is one of the options for making a truly right decision.

New friends

The strongest friendships are those that are made on a hike. Almost all the people who went hiking with us today are a close-knit team of friends. No one remains indifferent!

Make up your mind and book!

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