Panama

beyond the beaten path

It doesn't seem true when you consider its size, yet Panama is home to more bird species than Europe and North America combined, and a greater diversity of plants than the United States and Canada. The reason for such incredible diversity goes back three million years, when Panama became the connecting stretch of land between North and South America, which allowed flora and fauna from both continents to meet, mix, and find a home in this little tropical paradise. While the country is quickly developing, one-third of the country has been given protected status. These are mostly tropical forests (which cover over 60% of the territory), but also wetlands, mangroves, and over 1,400 tropical islands featuring stunning beaches and spectacular coral reefs. If birdwatchers will struggle to contain their enthusiasm in the country with the greatest variety of birds in all of Central America (over 940 species!), Panama knows how to satisfy the desires of any nature lover, whether diving into the depths of the Amazon rainforest (one for all, La Amistad National Park in the far west of the country) or diving into the changing colours of unique marine environments such as Coiba Natural Park.