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Panama

About Panama


Panama is more than a destination; it is where continents, cultures, and commerce come together. Home to the world-famous Panama Canal, this dynamic country has connected people, ideas, and trade for centuries, making it a fitting host for the 65th ICCA Congress.

Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Panama offers an extraordinary blend of experiences. In a single day, visitors can explore vibrant city life, relax on pristine beaches, immerse themselves in tropical rainforests, and discover rich cultural heritage.

At the heart of the country is Panama City, a global hub where modern innovation meets history. From the cobbled streets of Casco Viejo to the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, the city reflects the spirit of connection that defines both Panama and the ICCA Congress.

Panama's cultural diversity is equally compelling. Influenced by Indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, Latin American, and international traditions, it boasts a vibrant arts scene, world-class cuisine, and warm hospitality. Recognised by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy, Panama City offers flavours and experiences as diverse as its people.

Whether you're seeking natural wonders, cultural discovery, or global perspectives, Panama delivers unforgettable experiences. Here, connection is not just a concept — it is part of everyday life, making Panama the perfect place to explore the theme #CrossWorlds and connect with the global meetings and events community.


Panama: One of the World's Most

Sustainable Countries

Carbon-Negative Country

Panama is one of the few countries in the world that absorbs more carbon dioxide than it produces, making it a carbon-negative nation. Its vast forests, mangroves, and protected natural areas act as powerful carbon sinks, helping to capture and store greenhouse gases while supporting extraordinary biodiversity.

For visitors, it means experiencing a destination where sustainability and nature go hand in hand, offering the chance to explore some of the world's most remarkable landscapes while contributing to a more sustainable future.

More than 30% of Panamanian Land

is Protected

With over 30% of its land and marine territory protected, Panama is one of the world's leading destinations for biodiversity and conservation. National parks, nature reserves, and marine sanctuaries safeguard lush rainforests, cloud forests, coral reefs, and extraordinary wildlife, offering visitors unparalleled opportunities to experience nature at its most vibrant and untouched.


54% of Oceans are Protected

Over 50% of Panama's marine territory is protected, safeguarding some of the most biodiverse waters in the Americas. These protected areas help preserve vital ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and the migration routes of whales, sea turtles, sharks, and countless marine species. As a result, Panama offers exceptional opportunities to experience thriving marine environments while supporting long-term conservation and sustainable tourism.


A Global Migration Corridor

Millions of birds, whales, and marine species pass through Panama every year as part of global migration routes.

The Only Capital City with a Tropical Rainforest

Panama City is the only capital in the Americas with a tropical rainforest inside its city limits.

Useful Information

e look forward to welcoming you to Panama City for an unforgettable ICCA Congress 2026 experience.


In the sections below, you'll find useful information to help you plan your trip, including recommendations on what to pack & useful information, airport information, local transportation options, and some of Panama's must-visit attractions.

Airport & flight information
What to pack &
useful information
Local transportation options
Must-visit attractions

Food & Dining

Panama's culinary scene reflects its rich cultural heritage and unique position as a crossroads of the world. From traditional Panamanian dishes and fresh seafood to international fine dining and vibrant local markets, visitors will find a wide variety of flavours to suit every taste. Whether you're looking for a quick bite between sessions or an unforgettable dining experience, Panama City offers something for everyone.


Explore our recommendations below to discover some of the best places to eat during your stay at ICCA Congress 2026.

Culinary Guide

Must-See Spots

Panama City

Panama City is the only capital city in the Americas with a tropical rainforest within its city limits. A destination of contrasts, it seamlessly combines the historic charm of Casco Antiguo, the modern skyline of a thriving global hub, and the archaeological treasures of Panamá Viejo. Recognised by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy, Panama City offers a vibrant blend of culture, heritage, innovation, and world-class cuisine.

Boquete 

Home to Volcán Barú, Panama’s highest peak, and the region that produces some of the world’s most prized coffee. For an unforgettable experience, hike to the summit before dawn and watch the sun rise over both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from a single vantage point.


Riviera Pacifica

Less than two hours from Panama City, the Riviera Pacífica stretches along more than 40 km of stunning Pacific coastline. Discover charming mountain towns, golden beaches, world-class golf courses, and vibrant seaside communities, then unwind at luxury resorts, beach clubs, and waterfront restaurants after a day of adventure and exploration.


Must-Do Activities

Emberá Community: A Cultural Experience to Remember

Step into the world of the Emberá people and experience a culture deeply connected to nature, heritage, and community. Welcomed as a guest, you'll gain insight into traditional customs, artistry, stories, and ways of life through authentic interactions rooted in mutual respect. More than a visit, it's a meaningful cultural exchange that offers a deeper understanding of Panama's rich Indigenous heritage.

Where Geisha Coffee Reaches Legendary Status

Panama is the birthplace of the world's most celebrated Geisha coffee. Grown in the cool, fertile highlands of Boquete, this exceptional variety is renowned for its floral aromas, vibrant flavour profile, and remarkable smoothness, earning record-breaking prices and international acclaim.

A visit to Panama offers the chance to go beyond the cup: explore the farms where Geisha is cultivated, meet the passionate producers behind its success, and discover how this small bean transformed the global specialty coffee industry.

Dive Into a UNESCO Marine Sanctuary

Explore the extraordinary waters of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on Earth. Part of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor and connected to the famed Galápagos region, this protected sanctuary is home to whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and vast schools of tropical fish. Whether diving or snorkelling, it's a rare opportunity to experience one of the world's greatest underwater wonders.

Panama: Close to Everything


In Panama, extraordinary experiences are never far apart. Thanks to its compact size, modern infrastructure, and world-leading air connectivity, you can travel from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea in just two hours, explore rainforests in the morning, and enjoy world-class dining by evening.

As the most connected destination in Latin America, Panama makes it easy to discover a remarkable diversity of cultures, landscapes, and experiences in a single trip. Meet Indigenous communities, explore one of the world's most studied tropical forests, watch whales and migratory birds in their natural habitats, and immerse yourself in a rich blend of Indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and Hispanic heritage.

At the heart of it all is Panama City, a global gateway where business, culture, and cuisine converge. From historic landmarks and modern skylines to a vibrant culinary scene recognised by UNESCO, the city offers the perfect starting point for exploration.

Wherever your journey takes you, you'll spend less time travelling and more time experiencing. In Panama, world-class nature, culture, and adventure are always within easy reach.

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