Cross Panama: from a Caribbean sunrise to a Pacific sunset

Few places in the world allow you to see two oceans in a single day. In Panama, the distance between the Caribbean and the Pacific is measured in hours, not days. Its privileged geographical position allows you to travel from coast to coast in less than two hours, crossing tropical forests, lakes, and mountains that reveal the astonishing natural and cultural diversity of the isthmus.

Furthermore, if you are traveling from most Latin American countries—Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, or Chile—you don't need a visa to enter: just your passport and the desire to experience an experience that unites two oceans in a single day.

Sunrise in the Caribbean

The tour begins at dawn in the province of Colón, on the Caribbean coast. The historic town of Portobelo, with its colonial forts declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a perfect setting to watch the sun rise over the calm Caribbean Sea.

Portobelo National Park is famous for its biodiversity and diving spots. Drake Island and Buenaventura Island are two of the best places for diving or snorkeling, where local guides will take you to see sea turtles, tropical fish, coral reefs, and coral restoration sites. Nearby, Isla Grande welcomes visitors with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and the authentic flavor of the Panamanian Caribbean: fried fish, patacones, and warm smiles by the sea.

A journey through the heart of the isthmus .

From Colón to the Pacific Ocean, it's just 80 kilometers, which takes about two hours to travel, passing through tropical rainforest landscapes, lakes, and small communities. It's a journey that reveals the green soul of Panama.

An unforgettable option is to take the Panama Canal Railway, the historic train that follows the route of the Panama Canal and connects the Atlantic to the Pacific, offering views of Gatun Lake, the locks, and tropical vegetation.

In less than an hour, travelers arrive in Panama City, a modern and vibrant capital that combines history, culture, and contemporary architecture, a natural connection between both seas. In fact, it's home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites. The first is Panamá Viejo, an archaeological site that preserves the remains of the first city, founded in 1519 and destroyed by pirates. The second is Casco Antiguo, a walled colonial city full of color, history, and flavor, ideal for exploring on foot. Here you'll find a wide selection of museums, hotels, and the best nightlife, with rooftops and restaurants.

Sunset on the Pacific

The day culminates on the Pacific coast, where the landscape is transformed: wide beaches, warmer waters, and a serene atmosphere.

From Playa Coronado, San Carlos, or Playa Blanca, you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch before watching the sunset, which colors the horizon in golden hues.

Those who prefer an urban retreat can do so from the Amador Causeway or the Cinta Costera, where the sun sets behind the silhouette of skyscrapers and boats sailing into the Pacific, a perfect summary of the country's essence.

And while you're there, take the opportunity to explore the Pacific Riviera. A great tip is to go during the first months of the year, as the dry season or summer runs from December to March, making it the best time to visit the beaches, with sunny days and clear roads. You can explore the beaches, enjoy the incredible seascapes, and, before returning, swap the waves for the mountains by discovering the green side of the Pacific Riviera by hiking through forests with breathtaking landscapes.

A trip that defines Panama .

Experiencing "one day, two seas" isn't just about crossing an isthmus, but about experiencing the very identity of Panama: a country that connects oceans, cultures, and experiences. For curious and adventurous travelers, it's a unique opportunity to enjoy Panamanian history, nature, gastronomy, and hospitality in just a few hours, all hassle-free and without the need for a visa.

Source: PROMTUR Panama/Visit Panama