Surf, Sustainability, and Smart Tourism: Panama’s Weekly Pulse
In Panama, surfing isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re chasing the wild energy of Bluff in Bocas del Toro or seeking the perfect break at Venao, Santa Catalina, or Playa Caracol, this country has waves for every kind of rider. Adrenaline junkies can head to Silverbacks, Cortocircuito Cambutal, or Morrillo, while those looking for a more relaxed vibe will love El Palmar or Playa Teta. With the #TripeaLoTuyo campaign, Panama invites its people to fall back in love with their own land—because perfect waves don’t require a passport, just a look around home.
Beyond the beaches, Panama’s tourism sector is pushing forward on multiple fronts to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and high-quality visitor experience.
This week, the Empreturismo Program hit another milestone. Agreements were signed with entrepreneurs in regions like Boquete, Santa Catalina, Pedasí, Tierras Altas, and Bocas del Toro to boost local businesses and strengthen community tourism.
Panama also hosted the first meeting of the Technical Committee for the Unified Tourism Certification System—a key step toward aligning the country’s tourism offerings with sustainability and quality standards on a national level.
Collaboration was the theme as well in meetings with Visit Panama and PROMTUR, where the focus was on enhancing international promotion using smart tourism data tools. Meanwhile, at the 2025 Tourism Forum organized by APEDE, tourism was spotlighted as a key driver of Panama’s economic and social development.
On the ground, training efforts expanded. In Veraguas and Colón, hospitality workers took part in new customer service workshops, thanks to a partnership with INADEH. In Boquete, site guides received hands-on training to deepen their knowledge of Panama’s natural and cultural heritage—supported by experts from MiCultura, MiAmbiente, and the National Police.
In other news, the Ministry of Tourism participated in the National Assembly, where funding was secured for upcoming initiatives. At the same time, it welcomed proposals from Fundación Amador aimed at enhancing the area surrounding the BioMuseo and improving sustainability outcomes.
Panama also helped launch the 16th edition of SAGSE Central America & Caribbean, a major fair linking the gaming industry with tourism and technology. Hosted at Sortis Hotel & Casino, the event brought together leaders from across the Americas and highlighted Panama as a strategic hub for entertainment-driven investment and corporate tourism.
Community support was evident with the opening of the first “Tienda del Pueblo” in Silos Pan de Azúcar, an air-conditioned shop offering affordable essentials like rice, beans, canned goods, and pasta. This effort, led by the Instituto de Mercadeo Agropecuario (IMA), is part of a national strategy to improve food access.
Efforts toward gender equity also took center stage. The Ministry is currently conducting a survey to better understand the barriers women face in the tourism industry and to gather input for a national Action Plan to close the gender gap. You can participate and be part of the change: Survey Link.
And finally, travelers are reminded: your safety and comfort come first. Before booking your next adventure, make sure your tour operator is officially registered with the Tourism Authority of Panama. It’s the best way to ensure a safe, legal, and high-quality experience. You can verify operators at www.atp.gob.pa, under the “Industrias” section.
From surfboards to strategy sessions, Panama continues to invest in tourism that celebrates its people, protects its resources, and invites the world to discover its magic—responsibly.
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Latina Republic is dedicated to sharing stories that celebrate the cultural richness, natural beauty, and vibrant communities of Latin America. Through features on touristic gems and regional news, we aim to inspire meaningful connections with the heart of the region. Tourism highlights the breathtaking landscapes and heritage of these communities, and also serves as a powerful platform for local entrepreneurs to share their culture, crafts, and traditions—strengthening local economies while preserving and showcasing their unique identities.
