5 Reasons Why Panama is Perfect for your Spanish Trip

With so many incredible destinations in Central and South America, you might be thinking…why Panama? 

Well, here are 5 reasons why Panama is the ideal destination to explore for Spanish language learners.

1. Geographical location

Its location between North and South America means Panama is the epicenter of cultural exchanges and the ideal place to practice your Spanish in different real-life scenarios.

Connecting the two continents, this intriguing country combines historical, cultural and economic narratives, creating an epic blend of stunning landscapes and diverse communities.

It is known as the hub of the Americas. This is mainly also due to the engineering marvel, the Panama Canal – a 80-km waterway and one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World.  

There are also more than 1,365 weekly flights to Panama City’s international airport (Tocumen International), making it easily accessible with direct routes from many European cities as well as Canada and the U.S!

2. Authentic language immersion

You’ll enjoy the opportunity to practice your Spanish by ordering delicious local foods like the wholesome soup sancocho or crispy patacones (fried green plantain). You’ll also be able to engage with native speakers on activities like walking tours, kayaking adventures, environmental project visits, and of course chatting with vendors at local markets.

This will boost your confidence and fluency, making your language journey more enjoyable. Your learning will go deeper than just grammar and vocabulary; you will experience regional accents and colloquialisms. 

On Kagumu’s Spanish immersion trips we have native Spanish speaking tour leaders, so you can discuss global issues in Spanish in various group activities and reflection sessions. 

3. Rich cultural immersion

Panama has Afro-Caribbean, Spanish and indigenous influences, meaning you can experience a range of rich cultures. In fact, Panama’s numerous indigenous groups today account for more than 10 percent of the country’s population. 

Panama City blends modern infrastructure with historic UNESCO sites like Panama Viejo and Casco Antiguo. This enthralling capital resembles the country’s diversity and acts as the epitome of the culture through its colors, history and flavors.

Here you can explore the streets led by a local guide spinning tales (in Spanish) of this city and its intriguing history. Of course, you should try various local delicacies in a what UNESCO dubbed as a Creative Gastronomic City. 

From Panama City, take a day trip to the San Blas Archipelago where 60 out of 360 of the tropical islands are home to the indigenous Kuna people (a tribal society). Although technically they are part of Panama, the Kunas lead their own islands, implementing their own laws and customs, to protect their heritage and natural environment. 

Bocas Del Toro is another Archipelago which was a province that was critical during the ‘banana boom’ when many laborers from the Panama Canal traveled to work on the banana plantations. There are various events which take place here every year, celebrating the various local cultures – from Afro-Caribbean cuisine to traditional dances. 

 

4. Discover its mega-diversity 

Improve your language skills in an environment which allows you to explore nature. Given its location, Panama is referred to as the MesoAmerican Biological Corridor allowing a rich exchange of plants and animals. 

The country’s distinct habitats are home to some of the most unusual and varied plant and animal species – over 10,444 plant species and 255 species of mammal, 972 indigenous bird species and 222 different species of amphibian. 

Within the country, you can find forests, mountains, mangroves, coral reefs and tropical islands. So whether you’re exploring the Barro Colorado Nature Monument – the most intensively researched tropical rainforest in the world, or heading to a tropical island for the weekend, each adventure will help to enrich your Spanish learning experience.

Whale watching is also very popular during the breeding and mating seasons. However, the country takes conservation efforts seriously and there are strict rules in place for tourists, in order to preserve this species. 

 

5. Participate in conservation projects

Discover natural phenomena and develop your Spanish by contributing to a conservation project. The country offers plenty of learning and collaboration opportunities for students.

There are various organizations like Panama Wildlife Conservation or Rainforest Alliance, which offer programs to support habitat restoration, wildlife conservation, and reforestation. 

Within our Spanish immersion trip, you’ll get the chance to take part in the conservation of the mangrove system on the Pacific Coast, go kayaking, as well as join a local foundation in their quest to clean up the beaches. You can also do the India Dormida hike, which is a walk that features forests, waterfalls, and breathtaking views, and entails cycling around the base of a volcano!

Keen to explore this Central American marvel? Contact our friendly team to tailor a journey for you!