Q24N — Within the framework of International Oceans Month, Panama reaffirms its commitment to marine conservation and opens its doors to tourism to explore its Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, interacting with rivers, mangroves and waterways.
According to the Tourism Promotion Fund (Promtur), these are just some of the reasons why this destination should be on the list of tourists interested in exploring and preserving the beauty of some of the most precious resources on the planet.
According to data from the Panama Tourism Authority, in the first months of the year, the general tourist revenue reached US$1.023 billion, which represents 5.6% more compared to the same period last year.
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In this context, sustainable tourism becomes a relevant catalyst for the economy and Panama makes efforts to offer enriching and immersive experiences that raise visitor awareness about the importance of preserving the environment. For the Panamanian nation, the sea is part of their history and future, which is why they not only celebrate their oceans in June, but they also have their own Panama National Oceans Month (September).
The 1,800 miles of Panamanian coast offer tourists endless ocean attractions, among which the following stand out:
- Panama Canal: applying the speed and traffic recommendations established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), it aims to protect whales, dolphins and other aquatic animals during their seasonal migration.
- Coiba National Park: a world-class diving destination with 760 species of marine fish, 33 species of sharks and 20 species of cetaceans. Declared World Heritage by UNESCO. It even houses one of the 12 stations of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, allowing the study of evolution, climate change and the effects of human impact on Caribbean ecosystems.
- Bocas del Toro: Noted for ongoing coral reef rehabilitation efforts. With nine main islands in the Caribbean Sea, it is home to 95% of the Caribbean’s coral species and Mission Blue’s first “Hope Spot” in Panama, a marine preservation and rehabilitation program.
- Bastimento National Marine Park: Panama’s first marine park. It is home to the best-preserved coral reefs along the Caribbean coast, making it an excellent destination for diving and snorkeling. Conservation efforts focus on hawksbill and leatherback turtles, where collaborative work with the indigenous Ngäbe-Buglé people plays a fundamental role in monitoring nesting sites.
- Gulf of Chiriquí: with extensive mangroves rich in marine life.
Panama has exceeded international marine protection objectives by safeguarding 50% of its total marine area; Additionally, it is one of three carbon-negative countries in the world and Coiba National Park maintains the prestigious “Blue Spark” status of the Marine Conservation Institute, highlighting ongoing efforts to preserve its pristine marine ecosystems.
The innovative “Wanda Díaz” waste management system that combines Artificial Intelligence, hydraulic energy and solar panels to eliminate solid waste from Panamanian waters, is another of the sustainable initiatives that are actively implemented to protect marine environments. The country developed the National Action Plan on Marine Litter 2022-2027, aimed at reducing marine pollution, whose development had the participation of different national and international actors.
Additionally, the country is part of Pacto Azul, a new environmental initiative that encourages a collaborative approach to sustainable tourism, seeking to protect coastal marine resources and develop regenerative tourism capabilities that benefit native coastal communities. This pact requires companies in the tourism sector to apply sustainable and regenerative practices; local communities actively participate by expressing their environmental concerns and taking part in active solutions; and tourists practice responsible travel methods.
Panama is presented as a destination that combines exceptional natural beauty with a real commitment to the preservation of the oceans. International Oceans Month is the perfect occasion to explore this ecological paradise and immerse yourself in experiences that make a difference in global marine conservation.
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