Santiago

One of the oldest settlements in Panama, the city of Santiago is situated halfway between Panama City and the border of Costa Rica. This city is the capital of the Veraguas province. The city flourished during the Spanish colonial Era, and retains its Spanish influenced architecture.

There are a number of well known attractions which include their local museums, and the Basilica Menor Santiago Apostol de Nata, the oldest church on this side of the Americas. The church boasts of exquisitely wood carved statues, and the statue of its patron saint Santiago Apostol is paraded through the city streets in ceremony every July.

The nearby Coiba National Park offers the opportunity to explore nature and its surroundings. The 650,000 acre park is composed of numerous islands where marine life is abundant for tourists and nature lovers to explore. The lush forests here have remained untouched due to the island’s geographical remoteness. World-class deep sea fishing is available for fishing enthusiasts with the availability of the renowned big game fish such as blue and black marlins. Snorkeling and deep sea diving are also popular activities for water sport enthusiasts, while nature lovers have the pleasure of viewing the island’s fantastic flora and fauna.

Also located within the vicinity of Santiago is the Santa Catalina beach, one of the most famous in Panama, for surf lovers. Originally the historical home to the fierce indigenous Guaymi tribe who never gave in to the Spanish invaders, Santa Catalina is now known as a surfer’s paradise, with its superb break and large waves that satisfy the adventurous needs of every surfer. Surfing culture has embraced this beach community, with surfing camps and low budget accommodations abundantly set up by the local people. This surfing area was traditionally a well kept secret, however since being discovered the surfers have retained the small fishing village atmosphere and infrastructure.

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