Surrounded by green mountains, tropical rainforest, access to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans within mere hours of each other and plenty of outdoor adventure, Panama is emerging as one of Latin America’s hottest destinations, right alongside Costa Rica.
Panama and Costa Rica have many similarities. Both countries have mountains, oceans, volcanoes, tropical rainforests, zip line tours, hot springs and exotic wildlife. Both countries have a high percentage of residents who speak English (generally, more than any other language in the bigger cities.) Both countries have similar temperate climates and both are quite beautiful. There really isn’t anything about Costa Rica that you can’t find the equivalent to, if not better, in Panama.
The differences:
Tourism is still light compared to Costa Rica next door, although on the rise in Panama. With the beautiful scenery, activities, such as world-class birding, hiking, white water rafting and beach combing, safety, temperate climate and abundant wildlife, Panama offers an ideal getaway no matter what you are seeking.
One of the many great things Panama has to offer is local flavor. The friendly local people to meet, to teach you Spanish or share culture, just don’t seem to exist in Costa Rica any longer. When you leave Panama you will be able to take a piece of a new culture with you.
Roads: One striking difference between the two countries is quality of driving roads. Costa Rica is famous for its bad roads. The main roads in Panama are all paved and relatively free of potholes. With the beautiful scenery spanning the Pacific Coast of Panama and the fact that you can experience the Pacific Ocean in the morning and be at the Atlantic Ocean by afternoon, driving conditions are important and Panama wins this category.
Crime: No contest, Costa Rica has a much higher crime rate than Panama. Armed robberies, carjackings and other crimes occur far more frequently in Costa Rica. The U.S. State Department designated Costa Rica a “high crime rate country” for tourists. Crime rates in Panama are lower than any other country in Central America and the stable political climate and friendly population make for a very welcoming area for visitors and settlers alike.
Currency: Panama comes out on top in this category, as well. The official currency in Panama is the Balboa (the nationalistic term for the US Dollar.) With all US currency and no exchange rate (for US residents) traveling, re-locating and spending money in general in Panama is care-free. The currency of Costa Rica is the Colon, and the exchange rate fluctuates frequently.
But, don’t take our word for it. Visit for yourself and see!
{ 0 comments… add one now }