Get under the skin of Panama, her gorgeous people and beautiful surroundings – we promise you’ll be astounded by the sheer diversity of this small country. We’re talking colonial chic, steaming rainforests, volcanic craters, white sand beaches and clear Caribbean seas. And yes, the engineering wonder that is the iconic Panama Canal.

Panama city chic

Forget the clichés and the Panama hats: instead expect one of the hippest cities on the planet. Panama City has a lively commercial centre and a rabbit warren of old streets in the atmospheric colonial centre crammed with little jazz bars.

An engineering wonder

The Panama Canal. Reason enough to visit, we think. It’s made up of a fascinating network of locks, and further downstream, you might be surprised when you emerge to find tropical seas and beautiful islets. Instead of canal, think tropical sea where you are more likely to see crocodiles and turtles than any landscape pollution.

Chill out, caribbean style

Stay at a private beach house called La Mezquital del Oro in a surfing village on the stunning Pacific coast – the perfect spot to hit the surf or lounge on the wonderfully creaky veranda. Savour multi-coloured sunsets, beach BBQs and mouthwateringly fresh seafood. Local restaurants are just a short walk (or stagger) from your house.

Volcanic craters, rainforest and wildlife

Venture to El Valle set in the crater of a dormant volcanic range. Here you can trek in rainforest that is home to wonderful wildlife, from jaguars and sloths to an abundance of birdlife.

Snorkel off a water villa

Drive to the beautiful Bocas del Toro archipelago for some of the finest beaches and clearest waters in the world, and stay at our favourite Coral Lodge. From trying the best ceviche on the planet, snorkelling in warm Caribbean waters, to relaxing in your stilted water villa, this is the perfect end to the trip.