Panama has long lagged neighboring Costa Rica in terms of visitors and development, even though the two countries share a lot of attributes. In terms of biodiversity, nature opportunities, and adventure possibilities, Panama is a strong contender.
The potential has not translated into action, however. This is quite obvious in the luxury hotel sector, where pickings are still rather slim. Despite one of the strongest economies in Latin America and a thriving banking center in Panama City, only a few hotels rise above the standard business chain hotel mold. While Costa Rica and Belize boast a wide variety of upscale jungle retreats and eco–lodges, Panama Hotels are, on the whole, a modest and unadventurous lot.
This doesn't mean nobody is trying to change that, however. Here we highlight both the true standouts and those hotels that are rapidly improving and upgrading their facilities.
For now most of the luxury hotels are in and around Panama City. We expect the situation to change in the coming years as traffic to Panama and Latin America in general keeps going up. In the future we hope to highlight new luxury hotels around Boquete, Bocas del Toro, or the Pacific Beach areas. For now, make one of the Panama Hotels below your base and explore from there.
Panama City and Pacific Coast
Bristol Hotel & Spa at Buenaventura — Panama City, Panama
The Bristol Hotel — Panama City, Panama
Gamboa Rainforest Resort at the Panama Canal — Panama
Hotel DeVille — Panama City, Panama
InterContinental Playa Bonita Resort & Spa — Panama
Radisson Decapolis Hotel — Panama City, Panama
Boquete Region
Valle Escondido Resort, Golf and Spa — Boquete, Panama
Panamonte Inn & Spa — Boquete, Panama
Bocas del Toro Region
Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge — Bocas del Toro, Panama
Popa Paradise Beach Resort — Bocas del Toro, Panama
Pearl Islands
Hacienda del Mar Hotel — San José Island, Panama
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