Panama will once again be present at the international Tourism Fair, Fitur, which will be held from January 24 to 28 in Madrid. This year, Visit Panama and the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP), are committed to community tourism and sustainable experiences as an additional attraction of their stand – IFEMA Pavilion 3 – whose construction is 95% recyclable, 90% reusable and with a design focused on highlighting the picturesque streets of the Old Town of the capital, where you can breathe a rich cultural and historical heritage. Likewise, they will have a wide tourist offer and the presence of 24 Panamanian suppliers, among which are hotels and tour operators that will offer unique experiences in the country.
One of the country's objectives in 2024 is to promote authentic and unique experiences in Panama, in which visitors will be able to experience first-hand activities offered by communities in different areas of the isthmus. For this reason, next Thursday, January 25, at 4:00 p.m., the presentation of five new tourist experiences will take place; Among them are the four finalists of the Innovative Community Tourism Experiences contest, carried out by the ATP and the World Tourism Organization.
The objective of this initiative is to promote sustainable tourism experiences that highlight the natural and cultural heritage of Panama, as well as the authenticity of its local communities, improving the quality of life of its residents and preserving the nature and culture of our country. The four finalists are:
Bridge of the World Category
The experience “Live the Caribbean and more: pirates, connections and nature of the Caribbean of Panama” invites you to discover the community of Achiote, in Colón, through its tropical biodiversity, its exotic birds, the Congo culture and the history of pirates like Francis Drake and Henry Morgan.
- Tour operator El Trip de Jenny and community group Los Rapaces Ecotourism
- Province of Colón
Multicultural Panama Category
The “Panama Sand & Folklore” experience includes encounters with skilled artisans, guardians of ancestral traditions, and elders who share stories and skills passed down through generations. The journey extends to Iguana Island, a unique wildlife refuge with white sand beaches and coral, offering the opportunity for close encounters with dolphins and humpback whales. The experience culminates in the community of Cañas and its neighboring island, where participants will be able to explore mangroves, immerse themselves in local authenticity and contribute to the conservation of sea turtles, in addition to learning ancestral meditation techniques.
- Tour operator Balaena Travel and community group Cooperativa de Servicios Múltiples ProTurismo
- Azuero Peninsula
Forests of Life Category
The experience “Crossing the Isthmus: the crystalline northwest” immerses the traveler in the collection of cocoa and other raw materials for the manufacture of artisanal chocolate. In addition, it allows you to explore coral restoration, delve into agroforestry and permaculture or marvel at impressive waterfalls, as well as get to know the unique town of Bocas del Toro, one of the most biodiverse and multicultural places in Panama and enjoy various adventure activities. and conservation.
- Tour operator Panama Heavens and the community group Cooperativa de Turismo Santa Fe RL
- Province of Bocas del Toro
Category Birds in Paradise
The “Secrets of Playa Muerto” experience offers hiking activities in the primary tropical forest, sightings of exotic fauna, such as the elusive Harpy eagle (Panama's national bird); In addition, the community offers artisanal fishing experiences, dances, gastronomy and native architecture, making this innovative experience a unique product that directly involves outdoor activities, cultural interaction and environmental preservation.
- Ancón Expeditions of Panama and the community group Cooperativa de Turismo de Playa Muerto RL
- Province of Darién
The Coffee Circuit, the country's agro-ecotourism destination
In addition to presenting the four finalists of the contest, Panama will also highlight the Coffee Circuit, a network of coordinated companies, with the highest quality and experience for tourists, articulated to enhance the attractions tourist attractions of the Chiricano Coffee Park as an agro-ecotourism destination.
Made up of a total of four districts and sixteen townships, located in the upper part of the Province of Chiriquí in the western end of Panama, this set of natural, cultural, gastronomic and well-being experiences that allow you to live the coffee experience in the province from Chiriquí.