Climatic conditions in different parts of the country Panama. Geography of Panama

Panama- a state located on the Isthmus of Panama, connecting South America with Central and North. It borders Colombia to the east, Costa Rica to the west, the Caribbean Sea to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. It also includes over 1600 small islands.

The name of the country in the language of local Indians means "village of fishermen."

Official name: Republic of Panama

Capital: Panama

The area of ​​the land: 78.2 thousand sq. km

Total population: 3.4 million people

Administrative division: The state is divided into 9 provinces and 1 special territory.

Form of government: Republic.

Head of State: The president.

Composition of the population: 70% - mestizos, 14% - West Indians, 10% - descendants of Europeans, 6% - Indians.

Official language: Spanish; locals also speak Caribbean English.

Religion: 85% are Catholics, 15% are Protestants.

Internet domain: .pa

Mains voltage: ~110 V, 60 Hz

Phone country code: +507

Country barcode: 745

Climate

Panama has a subequatorial type of climate. Throughout the year it is hot and humid, and fluctuations in average monthly temperatures do not exceed 2-3 degrees. The hottest is the Pacific coast of the country. Here, in the period from March to September, during the daytime, the air warms up to +34..+36 degrees, and at night it cools down to +20..+22 degrees. In the period from September to March, daytime air temperatures rise to +31..+33 degrees, and nighttime temperatures drop to +17..+19 degrees.

On the Caribbean coast of Panama, the daily temperature variation is not so noticeable. From March to September during the day the air warms up to +30..+32 degrees, and at night it cools down to +23..+25 degrees. In a relatively cool season from September to March, daytime air temperatures reach +28..+30 degrees, nighttime temperatures drop to +20..+22 degrees. In the central mountainous regions of the country at altitudes of more than 1000 m above sea level, the air temperature is 7-8 degrees lower than on the coasts.

During the year, up to 3500 mm of precipitation falls in Panama on the northern slopes of the mountains and on the Caribbean coast, and up to 2000 mm on the Pacific coast. Relatively dry season lasts from December to mid-April, rainy - from May to December. On the Pacific coast, these seasons are more pronounced: during the dry season, less than 50 mm of precipitation falls per month, and during the rainy season - 300-400 mm.

On the Caribbean coast and on the northern slopes of the mountains, a fairly large amount of precipitation falls - from 200 to 400 mm per month. Also during the rainy season, powerful cyclonic eddies often come to the Caribbean coast, characterized by strong gusty winds and heavy rainfall, but the main path of tropical hurricanes characteristic of the Caribbean Sea passes to the north.

Geography

Panama is located on the narrow Isthmus of Panama, which connects North and South America. The greatest width of the isthmus does not exceed 200 km, the smallest - 50 km. From the south, Panama is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean, and from the north - by the waters of the Caribbean Sea. In the east, the country borders with Colombia, in the west - with Costa Rica. Panama also includes more than 1.5 thousand islands. total area countries with islands is 75.5 thousand square meters. km.

Mountain ranges stretch from west to east across the territory of Panama. The Cordillera de Veragua stretches from Costa Rica to the central regions of the country. There are several volcanic peaks here, including the highest point in the country - the active volcano Baru (3475 m). A little to the east, the Serrania de Tabasara ridge stretches to the Panama Canal. Further, near the Caribbean coast, there is a mountain system - the Cordillera de San Blas, which, near the border with Colombia, passes into the Serrania del Darien mountain range. In the southeastern part of the country, off the Pacific coast, the Serrania del Baudo range stretches into Colombia.

All these ranges have an average height of about 1000 m. The mountain ranges of Panama are strongly dissected - high peaks alternate with mountain plains. The coastal regions of Panama are occupied by lowlands. The Pacific coast is heavily indented - there are peninsulas, among which the country's largest peninsula is Azuero, and numerous islands (about 1000 islands in total).

The western and eastern mountain systems of Panama are separated by the 70-kilometer Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This is the main water artery of the country and one of the most important transport routes in the world. Most of the population lives around the Panama Canal.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

Approximately three quarters of Panama is covered in forests. In the north of Panama, along the Caribbean coast, mangroves are common. The lower parts of the northern mountain slopes are occupied by dense evergreen forests with broad-leaved valuable tree species. Slightly higher are "liana forests". In the southern part of the country near the Pacific coast, humid savannahs extend, which, with an increase in relief, turn into semi-deciduous forests. Evergreen forests are also common on the border with Colombia. In general, forests cover most of the country's territory.

Animal world

The fauna of Panama is represented by such animals as puma, ocelot, deer, monkeys, peccaries, anteater, sloths, armadillos and kinkajou. Reptiles include crocodiles, alligators and snakes, including poisonous ones. Birds include North American migratory birds, parrots, herons and toucans. AT highlands Chiriqui province is home to the sacred bird of the ancient Indians - the quetzal, which is considered one of the most beautiful birds of the New World, and in the jungles of Darien province you can see the largest bird of prey to date - the Harpy eagle.

Banks and currency

The official currency of Panama is the Balboa. One balboa is equal to 100 centavos. Previously, when the Panama Canal belonged to the United States, the official currency of the country was the US dollar, and to this day it is the country's legal payment unit. One US dollar is equal to 100 cents. The exchange rate of the national currency is pegged to the US dollar at a ratio of 1 balboa to 1 dollar.

Panama does not issue balboas in the form of paper banknotes, they are replaced by paper bills of US dollars. Balboas are present only in the form of coins, and Balboa coins are a copy of American coins only with a modified inscription. In circulation are coins of 10 and 1 balboa, as well as 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 centavos. US dollars are present in banknotes of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 US dollars and coins of 1 US dollar and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 15:00, on Saturdays - from 08:30 to 12:00.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange offices, hotels and at the airport. However, it is best to purchase US dollars before your trip, as it is not necessary to change them at all, they are legal tender.

Traveler's checks can only be cashed at banks. major cities. In order to avoid exchange fees, it is recommended to purchase traveler's checks in US dollars.

Credit cards are accepted everywhere in Panama City. Outside the city, it is best to have cash with you.

Useful information for tourists

The Panama Canal, one of the longest and busiest artificial waterways in the world, brought the greatest fame to the country. The canal zone is the most convenient place for buying goods from all over the world - prices are low, and taxes are practically absent. Numerous forest reserves and reserves, Darien national parks, etc. are of interest.

Useful data for tourists about Panama, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Panama, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions in Panama.

Geography of Panama

The Republic of Panama is a state in Central America on the Isthmus of Panama between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, bordered by Costa Rica in the west and Colombia in the east.

In the latitudinal direction, the central mountain range extends almost across the entire country, bordered on both sides by coastal lowlands. Both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts are characterized by deep bays and nearby islands. The Panama Canal is located in the lowest part of the isthmus between the western and eastern mountainous areas.

State

State structure

Panama is a unitary presidential republic. Executive power is exercised by the President in conjunction with the Ministers of State. Legislative power in Panama is vested in a unicameral Legislative Assembly.

Language

Official language: Spanish

For 14% of the population, English is native, and the Indians speak their own languages.

Religion

About 85% of Panamanians are Catholics, about 10% (mostly blacks from the West Indies) are Protestants of various denominations, and another 5% of the inhabitants, mainly from Hindustan and the Middle East, are Muslims.

Currency

International name: PAB

Balboa is equal to 100 centissimo (centavo). Balboa paper bills do not exist, their role is played by US dollars (the American currency was adopted as the official currency in 1904 and has ubiquitous free circulation). There are coins in circulation in 10 and 1 balboa, as well as 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 centissimo.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at all branches of the National Bank, including at the airport, as well as at numerous exchange offices. Almost any international currency can be exchanged in the country's capital; in the provinces, preference is given to the dollar and the euro.

Credit cards of the world's leading systems are accepted for payment everywhere. MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa are the most widely used types of payment systems. Traveler's checks can be cashed at almost any bank.

Popular Attractions

Panama Tourism

Office Hours

Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 08.00 to 15.00, on Saturdays - from 08.30 to 12.00.

Purchases

Value Added Tax (VAT, 5%) is levied only on certain types of services and on certain foreign trade transactions. VAT is not charged on payments for household services, consumer goods and transport.

Shops are usually open from Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 18.00. During ten national holidays, almost all shops are closed.

Bargaining is accepted only at market stalls and in the case of buying from hand to hand, in shops and artisanal markets, it is not worth bargaining.

Souvenirs

Many fine local handicrafts can be purchased as souvenirs. The most famous are "molas" - bright local cotton fabrics, decorated with abstract patterns.

The medicine

Safety

The crime rate is growing, especially theft, so you should be especially careful not to openly show passports, currency, photo and video equipment, which are objects of increased interest for local criminals. In the evening or when carrying luggage, it is recommended to take taxis owned by large companies. When driving a car, it is recommended that you never leave it unattended and keep all doors and windows closed.

Emergency Phones

Police - 104.
Tourist Police - 226-7000 or 269-8011.
Fire department - 103.
Ambulance - 269-9778.

Republic of Panama

Country Summary

Finance

Almost any international currency can be exchanged in the country's capital; in the provinces, preference is given to the dollar and the euro.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 08.00 to 15.00, on Saturdays - from 08.30 to 12.00.
Credit cards Credit cards of the world's leading systems are accepted for payment everywhere. MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa are the most widely used types of payment systems. There are more than two hundred ATMs in the capital. Traveler's checks can be cashed at almost any bank. To avoid additional costs associated with fluctuations in the exchange rate, it is recommended to take checks in US dollars. Shopping This city can be safely called a Mecca for shopping, nowhere else can you find so many branded goods at manufacturer's prices, delivered here from all over the globe, since the Canal is one of the most important centers for the transit of goods, but remembering that this country has minimal taxes, and they are generally absent for most goods and services, you can imagine how much everything is offered in shopping centers.

People from neighboring countries come to Panama for shopping tours, it is here that the largest complexes in Latin America are located, to bypass at least a third of one of these mega centers, you will need several days, the surprising factor in this business will be that buying the highest quality goods of world brands, you will pay only 25-40% of their sale value in other countries, not to mention the choice.

Food stores in Panama differ from leading European ones only in prices that are several times lower, and in terms of the quantity and quality of fruits and seafood, Panama can challenge leadership even with Japan.

One of the most popular shopping centers in Panama, among tourists and locals - "Multicentro". This mall is located in a very convenient and easily accessible location - on Avenida Balboa.

In Panama, you can buy a huge number of beautiful products of local handicrafts. The most famous are "molas" - bright local cotton fabrics, decorated with abstract patterns.

Fine carvings from the wood known as "tagua" or "vegetable ivory" are brought from Darién, while artisans in the western regions and the Azuero Peninsula produce an extensive range of pottery, masks, leather goods and straw sombreros.

Brightly colored dresses and "charakas" shoulder bags are calling card tribes "Ngobe-Bagle". However, the famous panama hats are most often made not here, but in the factories of Ecuador.

Shops are usually open from Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 18.00. During ten national holidays, almost all shops are closed. Bargaining is accepted only at market stalls and in the case of buying from hand to hand, in shops and artisanal markets, it is not worth bargaining.
Tipping Tipping is 5-10% of the bill, accepted both in dollars and in balboa, in large restaurants and hotels are often already included in the bill. Taxi services Taxis are considered one of the most important public means of transport in Panama. Here you can find two "varieties" of this transport: the so-called VIP taxi, with fixed prices (prices are in the car), however, the cost for using VIP taxi services is 3-5 times higher than usual.

The second type is official street taxis, they have an identification mark on the door - the car number. However, street taxi drivers in this country are a special category. The price of the trip is negotiated in advance, the car is not equipped with meters. If the trip around the city is not very expensive pleasure, then the cost of the road to the nearest suburbs, for example, to the airport, or to places where you can meet many tourists, increases by an order of magnitude.

For example, in the capital Panama City, the fare is $2. In places of congestion of tourists, the price can rise to $ 5. Distance doesn't matter. The taxi driver has the right to take more passengers along the way. If the taxi driver is not satisfied with the route, he may refuse the service.
Public transport At present, the main form of public transport in the republic is decommissioned American school buses. They are called Diablo Rojo - the red devil. They are mainly used by the lower strata of the population. It is recommended not to use buses, as accidents with their participation are not uncommon.

The buses themselves are very bright and very noisy. Panama remains the only country in which people adequately perceive graffiti-painted buses. Here, drivers themselves determine what will be painted on their vehicle. Particularly talented drivers paint the bus on their own, without the help of professional artists.

On the roofs of the buses there are additional trunks, which, of course, are empty in the city, but if you come across a suburban route, then you will not see anything there: from bags of oranges and cages with live chickens to bicycles and prams.

Panamanian passengers, not to mention the drivers, treat their regular buses as something animated. Everyone has their own name. Sometimes, standing at a bus stop, a Panamanian may miss several buses, although any of them could take him to his destination. The Panamanian will wait for the one he likes more, in which he is used to driving around the city. As a rule, such pets are given names. There are buses named after popular songs or pop singers. Therefore, Panamanians never give the route number. If you ask if bus number 2 stops here, you will not be understood. But if you name the name of the bus, for example, "bessom mucho" or "juana la cubana", everything will immediately fall into place. The expressions "something Jesus is late" or "I haven't ridden the Virgin Mary for a long time" do not surprise or outrage anyone here. Even if the hard workers have obscene nicknames given to them by the street.

Decorated buses are common not only in Panama. This is a sign of the Latin American province in general. But, perhaps, nowhere do they look as fun and exotic as here, and also on the Colombian coast. Buses have entered the local folklore, jokes are told about them, verses are sung. And their reduced papier-mâché copies are a must-have for any souvenir shop.
Car rental Car rental in Panama is quite expensive. There are a huge number of rental points.

The procedure is very simple (when using a credit card, the deposit is about $500, if you want to pay in cash, a deposit of $3,000 will be required from you), and the cost ranges from $35 / day for a Hyundai Accent (2009 range) to $250/day for Mercedes-Benz S600 (2009 range).
Foreigners are allowed to drive on their rights within 90 days from the date of arrival.

In large cities, it is not necessary to rent a car, since catching a taxi for a very reasonable fee is not a problem.

customs control

Import and export of national and foreign currency is not limited. Any amount can be imported in cash, traveler's checks and payment cards. Only amounts over $10,000 are required to be declared. When importing gold and gold products, a declaration is required.

Persons over the age of 18 are allowed duty free import of:
- up to 500 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500 grams of tobacco;
- up to three bottles of alcoholic beverages;
- perfumes and other perfumes - within a reasonable amount for personal use (bottles must be open);
- as well as gifts with a total value of up to $50.

Prohibited import:
- fruits, vegetables and products of animal origin (including shrimp), perishable products;
- weapons and ammunition, as well as drugs and narcotic substances.

The export of rare species of plants and fauna is prohibited.

Transport

Panama has a fairly well developed transportation system that has traditionally been oriented towards the outside world rather than towards the interior of the country.

Most transportation in the country is carried out by road, although public transport also accounts for a significant part of them. I must say that the public transport system needs to be modernized and improved. The cost of bus trips on routes connecting most settlements countries is small.

From west to east, from the border with Costa Rica to the border with Colombia, the country is crossed by the Pan American Highway. The total length of the road network is 11.6 thousand km.

The country has a very developed helicopter transport. The cost of helicopter services (4-6 people on board) for 1 hour starts from $600.

In many regions of the country, boats are the main means of transport, especially between the Bocas del Toro and San Blas archipelagos.

Panama has a well-developed domestic air transport network. There are 115 airfields in the country. The main domestic airlines are Mapiex and Aeroperlas. All domestic flights are concentrated at Panama's main airport, Aeropuerto Marcos A Gelabert, located in the Albrook area of ​​Panama City. The modern airport in the city of Panama is the most important transit point connecting North and South America.

In Panama, there is a railway with modern locomotives that runs from Panama City to Colon. The length of Panama's railways is 355 km. In practice, this is the most inexpensive and very popular way for tourists to travel to the Colon Free Trade Zone.

An interoceanic lock canal was laid across the Isthmus of Panama. Its length is 81.6 km, of which 65.2 km by land and 16.4 km along the bottom of the Gulf of Panama and Limon Bay (for ships to approach deep water). It is a flag of convenience country that ranks first in terms of the number of ships assigned to its ports (5005 ships, including 4388 foreign ships from 64 countries, 2005) and their displacement (183.6 million dwt, 2005).

Panama's seaports are served by North American companies. The largest ports of the country are the cities of Panama and Colon.

Panamanian seaports play an important role in the development of the country's economy. Thanks to this, Panama is a leading region for the transit of goods.

Panama will build a subway. Implementation this project will begin in the capital of the republic of the same name in July 2010.

Telecommunications

Network technologies are developing very intensively in Panama. Providers Inter.net, Cable Onda, Convergence Communications Inc. Panama, CyberMedia/Sinfonet, and about two dozen smaller companies provide the full range of network services. Internet access is available in many hotels. Almost all cities have Internet cafes, the prices are usually low (about $ 1 per hour).

Telephone communication in any major city Panama on the streets you can see pay phones that work with plastic cards. From these phones you can call not only within the country, but also abroad. Sometimes on the streets there are also old pay phones that work with coins. Phone cards are sold at newsstands, shops and special vending machines. You can also call abroad from large hotels, shops and banks, where there are telephones with access to an international line. Calls to Russia In order to call from Panama to Russia, you need to dial 00 - 7 - area code - subscriber's number. Calls from Russia To call from Russia to Panama, you need to dial 8 - 10 - 507 (Panama code) - subscriber's number. Area Codes There are no area codes in Panama. Useful phone numbers Useful phone numbers.

Ambulance: 269-9778.
Police: 104.
Fire department: 103.
Reference: 102.
Tourist Police: 226-7000 or 269-8011.
Panama Tourist Office (Instituto Panameco de Turismo, IPAT): 226-7000, 226-4614, 226-3164 or 226-3544.
Office of the President of the Republic of Panama: 227-9600.
Department of Health: 212-9100 or 212-9200.
Department of Agriculture: 232-6254 or 232-5043.
Department of Trade and Industry: 360-0600 or 360-0700.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 211-4100 or 211-4200.
Department of Justice and Administration: 212-2000 or 212-2100.
Department of Housing: 279-9200.
Ministry of Economy and Finance: 269-4133 or 269-4024.
Panama Canal Authority: 272-1111.
Colon Free Trade Zone: 445-1033, 445-1005, 445-1084.
Immigration: 227-1158 or 227-1609.

National cuisine

The unique geographical position of Panama influenced the formation of the national cuisine. Generally, national cuisines Latin America they use products that we have been accustomed to consider native since childhood, while forgetting where their real homeland is. So, potatoes, beans, tomatoes - came to Europe from South and Central America, not to mention the "queen of the fields" - corn. Corn is an integral part of almost any Panamanian meal. Any type and size of tortillas (not to be confused with the Spanish tortilla - omelette casserole) are sold in any supermarket and are used as an additive to dishes instead of bread.

One of the interethnic Latin American dishes that has taken root in Panama is ceviche, whose historical homeland is Peru. These are pieces of finely chopped meat or fish marinated in a spicy sauce. There are countless variations on the theme of ceviche. Marinades range from spicy to mildly spicy, and any meat, fish or seafood is used. In Panama, ceviche is sold everywhere. Each hostess and each cook prepares their own version, different from the others. And every time you get a new taste. Trying ceviche is included in the tourist program of any guest of the capital. Many can taste this dish when visiting the fish market or buy it in one of the many shops. Market varieties of ceviche are distinguished by their spiciness and abundance of onions. In stores - ceviche of a milder taste, with the addition of not quite traditional mayonnaise.

This dish is so simple that you can make it yourself. It is excellent as an appetizer and does not require special ingredients and rare spices. A simple folk dish with an exquisite taste. You can make a lot and store for several days in the refrigerator. All that is needed for it is always fresh meat or fish, you can use shrimp or octopus.

Of the traditional meat dishes, you should try "fritura" (assorted fried bananas, sausages, eggs and greens), "carimokolas" (a dish of yuca with meat), "saos" (marinated pork), "arros con polio" (fried spiced chicken meat with rice), "tamale" (meat baked in banana leaves with potatoes or corn), "hokon" (chicken in green sauce), "conejo-pintado" (fried agouti meat), "sancocho" (stewed meat with vegetables, resembling soup in texture), "arros-con-carne" (rice with beef), fried gallos cake with meat filling and fried cakes with meat "such".

The long ocean coast of the country causes the presence on the tables of a large number of fish and seafood - the word "Panama" itself is translated from Indian languages ​​as "an abundance of fish." Typical local dishes are baked fish "a la plancha", "fufu" (roasted fish, bananas and cassava stewed in coconut milk), "escabeche" (fish fillet fried in oil with vegetables, served cold), traditional " paella" with fish or seafood, etc.

As a side dish, fried bananas ("platanos") of two types are usually served: sweet "maduros" and crispy "tostones", as well as "casados" - a mixture of rice and vegetables. Cabbage and tomato salads, corn and egg salads, rice and seafood salads, or tropical fruit salads are very popular. There are always all kinds of cakes on the table, which are used as plates and cutlery, and spicy sauces.

Many dishes are served on the table not in plates or dishes, but in tortillas. They are often used instead of cutlery. The number of various types of tortillas is huge, here you can see quite traditional tortillas "tortilla de mais", which are often rolled into a tube and filled with all sorts of ingredients, from vegetables to meat and cheese, or corn-banana tortillas "plantan" replacing dessert in many cases. -tortillas". Also served for sweets are rice cooked in coconut milk, el carmelho fruit pie, tres leche vanilla pie, pi de lemon lemon pie, a kind of delici de coco coconut milk meringue, bananas fried with sugar, vanilla and cinnamon "tentacion" ("temptation"), "ochaldres" (fried dough with various jams as a watering) and other sweets.

On the territory of Panama, many varieties of vegetables and fruits are grown, and along with the well-known mangoes, papaya, oranges, pineapple and others, here you can try all kinds of exotic fruits. A variety of soft drinks are made from the same fruits, including the original "refrescos" fruit juices mixed with milk ("leche"), water ("aqua") and ice.

Locals drink coffee with milk and Latin American tea made from mate herbs in large quantities. Alcoholic drinks are represented by local beer varieties: "Panama", "Levenbrau", "Atlas", "Soberana" and "Balboa", rum varieties: "Seco-Ererrano" and "Carta Vieja", and the traditional Indian "chicha" from sugar cane.

Institutional work

Working hours for most organizations in Panama begin at 8.00-8.30 and end at 15:00-16:00. The lunch break starts at 12:30-13:00 and ends at 13:30-14:00. Working days are from Monday to Friday. Often the first half of Saturday is also a working day. All museums have a day off on Sundays and Mondays, the largest museums work on the first half of Sunday.

Holidays and non-working days

National holidays:

January 1 - New Year.
January 10 - Martyrs' Day.
February 8 - Carnival.
March 25 - Good Friday.
May 2 - Labor Day.
August 15 is Old Panama City Day.
November 1 - Children's Day.
November 3rd - Independence Day from Colombia.
November 4 - Flag Day.
November 5th is Colón's Independence Day.
November 10 - Day of the beginning of the struggle for independence from Spain.
November 28 - Independence Day from Spain.
December 8 - Mother's Day.
December 25 - Christmas.

Please note that if a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is considered a non-working day.

customs and practices

Panama is a historically multinational country, the local population is characterized by extraordinary tolerance, friendliness, and the ability to absorb different cultures. A lot of Indian traditions and customs are mixed here (to this day, existing mainly in the south of the country), Spanish (along the Caribbean coast) and American (along the Panama Canal). At the same time, the distrust of "gringos" traditional for Latin American countries is noticeably less expressed here, the cosmopolitan nature of local traditions is much more visible and the flexibility in resolving some complex issues is somewhat greater than that of the neighbors.

The descendants of ancient Indian cultures still retain the features of bygone civilizations, being extremely proud of their kinship with the tribes of pre-Columbian America. The Panamanian tribes stubbornly resisted colonization, so the memory of those terrible events still lives in the traditions of many tribes, especially Western ones.

All Indian tribes retain their customs and languages. Their right to do so is protected by law. The Darien Indian tribes are still very little studied ethnic groups, and their traditions and rituals are available only in a "theatrical" form. Their communication with civilization is reduced to barter and some kind of participation in the political life of the country (officially, the territories inhabited by Indian tribes have complete autonomy), the access of tourists here is difficult.

Most of the country's population is a colorful mixture of Spanish, Indian, African and Caribbean ethnic groups, which makes Panamanians related to other Latin American countries. Panamanians are famous for their dignity and courtesy in a completely unusual combination with a hot temperament and sociability. At the same time, one should not forget that the general standard of living in the country is very low, therefore, behind sociability, there may also be a desire to somehow "talk to an overseas guest" for one's own selfish purposes - such excesses are not uncommon here.

Panamanians are witty and hospitable, although, unlike neighboring countries, the attitude towards guests here is somewhat more dry. Some ethnic groups have their own code of conduct, sometimes noticeably different from the generally accepted one, so when visiting the hinterland, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the customs of the local population in advance.

AT everyday communication in Panama, quite European standards are used. It is customary to greet here by the hand, well-known people and friends may well hug each other when they meet, and neighbors or colleagues are often greeted at each meeting. In business circles, punctuality is highly valued, while the Panamanians themselves treat it rather coolly, to say the least.

The dress code is quite democratic, in business circles it is customary to wear a European-style suit, while in everyday life, many Panamanians manage with jeans and light shirts. At the same time, national forms of clothing are also very popular - all kinds of wide-brimmed hats, ponchos and wide leather pants can be seen almost everywhere, especially in the provinces.

The national dress of Panamanian women, the poyera, is also very beautiful. This is a white dress with puffy skirts and capes with ruffles, embroidered self made. Embroidery takes a lot of time and is highly valued, the cost of the original national costume, with unusual hair ornaments made of pearls and fish scales, can reach several thousand dollars.

As in most Latin American countries, the vast majority of the population is Catholic. They honor and observe religious traditions. In any, even the smallest village, there is always a church. On Sunday, it is customary for the whole family to go to the service, which is almost always accompanied by a modern musical arrangement. Religious motifs are also present in the design of public buildings. At the same time, hypocrisy and hypocrisy are alien to Panamanians.

Panamanians are very fond of holidays and have fun on any occasion. There are many holidays in Panama - both state, and religious, and traditional. There is, for example, a wonderful holiday for girls - Quince a?os, the fifteenth anniversary, when the whole family gathers, the girl is bought Nice dress, everyone congratulates her on becoming an adult, dancing and having fun.

Precautionary measures

The crime rate in Panama is quite high. In Panama City, cases of violent crime, theft (including in hotels) and outright fraud are not uncommon. Even police checkpoints began to appear on the roads, and most shops, banks and hotels have their own private security structures.

All solitary visits to remote areas and city streets should be avoided, especially in Colon and the capital, especially at night (the most dangerous areas are San Felipe, El Chorillo and Calidonia, as well as the suburbs of Ancona, Kurundu, Veracruz and others).

Increased security measures should always be taken against pickpockets, especially in crowded areas, at ATMs, or on public transport. Never trust your luggage to strangers who do not wear porter or hotel uniforms.

Many coasts of Panama have strong tidal currents and can be dangerous for swimming. Along the Pacific coast, often at a small distance from the coast, there are powerful currents that form strong eddies in the areas of the islands, which can be a source of danger for divers and surfers. Before entering the water, you should consult your guide or local residents regarding the safety of swimming in this place. There are relatively few dangerous marine animals off the country's coasts, but you should always take extra precautions against being bitten or stung by marine life.

When visiting national parks, you must obtain a permit (usually paid - $ 3-10) at the park office or at a local travel agency. Traveling through protected areas without a guide is prohibited, and in general this is unrealistic - the local flora forms such a powerful undergrowth that it is often simply impossible to pass through it without knowing the area. When visiting national parks, it is also recommended to bring some food, bedding, repellents and mosquito nets (clothing), clean water and water purifiers, and a first aid kit. Gifts and souvenirs for park employees (food, cigarettes, drinks, batteries, newspapers, etc.) are also very useful in building contacts.

A certificate of vaccination against yellow fever is required if entering from the territory of the distribution of this disease (most of the countries of South America and the Caribbean). Also, one will be required in case of travel to the Darien regions and other southeastern regions of Panama.

Immunization against hepatitis A and E, rabies, cholera and typhoid is recommended. It is recommended to use precautionary measures against malaria. In general, the risk of infection with it is low, but in the areas of Bocas del Toro, Darien and San Blas, there is a year-round danger of infection with a form of P. vivax, or, much less often, with a chloroquine-resistant form of P. falciparum.

It is recommended to bring sunscreen, hats and insect repellent. Mosquitoes, which carry most diseases, are widespread throughout the country (especially some areas adjacent to the Caribbean coast), so you should pay special attention to the condition of the mosquito nets on the windows of residential premises.

Tap water is usually chlorinated and is considered safe to drink. Drinking water outside the main cities is dangerous to drink. Milk is usually pasteurized, dairy products are also safe. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruits and vegetables are considered safe, however, for safety reasons, meat and fish should be consumed only after pre-cooking, preferably hot, vegetables should be thoroughly washed and pre-processed, and fruits should be peeled.

City
Panama
Spanish Panama
08°57′00″ s. sh. 79°32′00″ W d.
Country	Panama Panama
Provinces	Panama
Mayor	Juan Carlos Varela
History and geography
Founded	August 15]][, where it is based, because of the swamp (palude) or lagoon that borders it on one side, because of the noxious fumes coming out of this lagoon, it is considered unhealthy. It was designed and built from east to west, in such a way that no one could walk along the street, because of the sun going [across the sky], since it did not create any shadow. And it was felt so [significantly], because the heat was the strongest, and the sun was so unhealthy, that if a person was used to walking along the street, even for several hours, he became so sick that he died, and this happened to many. Half a league from the sea there were good, healthy places where they could begin the settlement of this city. But since the prices of houses are high, it is therefore costly to build them; although there is a noticeable damage received by everyone from living in such a disadvantaged place, no one moved, and especially because the old conquerors (conquistadors) are already all dead, and the current inhabitants are merchants who do not think of staying in it for a long time, until then, until they get rich. And so one is replaced by another; and few or no one look after the public good. Near this city flows a river that originates in the mountains. There are also many areas with rivers flowing in them, in some of them the Spaniards placed their estates (estancias) and "grantaria" - agricultural estates - and where many Spanish plants were grown, such as: oranges, citrons, fig trees [figs]. In addition, there are other fruits of the earth, such as: fragrant pineapples, guava, chrysophyllum (caimito), avocados (aguacate), and other fruits that the soil of that land gives. There are considerable herds of cows for the fields, for the land is suitable for their cultivation. Rivers bring a lot of gold. And therefore the place on which this city is founded brings many profits. It is well supplied with food, provided with all sorts of snacks from both seas, I mean both seas, meaning the North Sea, from where ships from Spain come to Nombre de Dios, and the South Sea from Panama sail to all the ports of Peru. Neither wheat nor barley grows on the borders of this city. Pedro de Ciesa de Leon. Chronicle of Peru. Part one. Chapter two. In 1671, Henry Morgan, with a team of 1,400 men, besieged and sacked the city, which was then destroyed by fire. The ruins of the old city are still preserved, they are popular among tourists and are called Panama La Vieja (Panama la Vieja). The city was rebuilt in 1673 in a new location seven kilometers southwest of the original city. This place is now known as Casco Viejo. The discovery of gold in California in 1848 led to an increase in travelers across the isthmus to the west coast. The Panama Railroad Company was formed a year before the discovery of gold, but rail service did not open until 1855. Between 1848 and 1869 about 375,000 people crossed the isthmus from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and 225,000 in the opposite direction. This movement greatly improved the welfare of the city during that period. The construction of the Panama Canal brought great benefits to the city's infrastructure. Most of the construction workers were brought in from the Caribbean, creating unprecedented racial and social tensions in the city. During World War II, military bases were built here. Due to the American presence, until the late 1960s, Panamanians had limited or no access to many of the Panama Canal zones near the city. From the late 1970s and into the 1980s, Panama City became an international banking center, including a center for illegal money laundering. In 1989, US President George W. Bush ordered an invasion of Panama to overthrow its leader, General Manuel Antonio Noriega. As a result of this aggression, an entire block of Panama, consisting of partially wooden buildings from the 1900s, was destroyed by fires. Today, Panama remains a banking center. Balboa - an area located within metropolitan Panama - was formerly part of the Panama Canal Zone, and in fact the headquarters of the administration of the former Panama Canal Zone is located there. Geography and climate natural attractions The coastal waters of the city are polluted and swimming is not allowed there. However, there are beaches nearby. The nearest is the Playa Bonita complex, just outside the city, you can get to it by moving through the Panama Canal on the bridge of the Americas. Also worth noting is the island of Taboga (Isla Taboga), which can be reached by ferry from Amador Causeway in 45 minutes. There are many more beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean sides (the advantage of Panama is that you can swim in two oceans at once, the journey between which takes only a few hours). Within a 30-60 minute flight, islands are available both in the Pacific Ocean (Archipelago Las Perlas), as well as in the Caribbean Sea (Bocas del Toro, San Blas) with bounty-style beaches. In recent years, many hotels have been built on the beach. The nature of Panama is similar to nature. The city has an extensive Parque Natural Metropolitano, which is difficult to reach without a car. The aquarium Centro de Exhibiciones Marinas is located on the causeway. Along west side channel is located national park Collections (Parque Nacional Soberania). On the way there you can visit the extensive botanical gardens and the zoo. Climate The climate of Panama is subequatorial. The city is characterized by a long wet season, which lasts from April to December inclusive, and a short dry season from January to March, when precipitation is rare, although it does occur. Since Panama is still a little north of the equator, there are two maxima in the wet season - in June and October, and in July-August there is a secondary minimum when the Sun goes further north than the latitude of Panama. The average monthly temperature hardly changes, and fluctuates from 26 to 28 °C all year round. It is hot and stuffy all year round, with average monthly highs never falling below 32°C, rising to 36°C in April. The climate of Panama Index Jan. Feb. March Apr. May June July Aug. Sen. Oct. Nov. Dec. Year Average maximum, °C 33,4 34,2 34,8 35,4 34,5 33,8 33,9 33,9 32,9 32,6 32,9 33,3 33,8 Average temperature, °C 26 26,3 26,6 27,5 27,8 27,6 27,5 27,4 27 26,7 26,6 26,3 26,94 Average minimum, °C 18,5 18,4 18,4 19,5 21,1 21,3 21 20,9 21 20,8 20,3 19,2 20 Precipitation rate, mm 29 10 13 65 225 235 169 220 254 331 252 105 1907 Source: World Meteorological Organization Population One of the districts of the city Panama is an extremely cosmopolitan city, even by Latin American standards. A significant (and poorest) part of the city's population are descendants of black Africans, the townspeople of Spanish origin traditionally make up the local economic and political elite. In recent decades, the city has experienced an influx of Indian poor from rural areas of both Panama and adjacent countries. A large number of mulattoes living in the city are usually middle class. Also in Panama there are many immigrants from Europe and especially from the United States, among whom there are many pensioners. There is a large Chinese diaspora, and the number of immigrants from Arab countries and India is growing. Economy F&F Tower - a symbol of the construction boom recent years Panama has a highly developed economy based primarily on transport, services, the banking sector and the construction and sale of real estate. The main source of the city's wealth is undoubtedly the Panama Canal, one of the world's main transport arteries. The city creates about 55% of the country's total GDP, being the location of all major Panamanian companies and representative offices of international corporations. The global financial crisis of recent years has led to some decline in property prices, but, unlike many other countries in the region, has not stopped progressive development local economy. Tourism is becoming more and more important part urban economy, attracting operators of the largest international hotel and restaurant chains to the city. in 2008, Panama ranked second in the world (excluding the United States) in terms of hotel occupancy (first place - third - Dubai). Transport The city also has an airport. Marcos Gelabert (Aeropuerto Internacional Marcos A. Gelabert; IATA: PAC, ICAO: MPMG), also known as Albrook Airport, for intra-Panamanian flights. It is located near the city center, in the former Panama Canal Zone. Since 2014, Panama Pacifico International Airport, created on the site of the former American military airbase, has been used for passenger flights. Diablos rojos - Panamanian minibus The Passenger Port of Panama serves many Canal cruise ships every year. The Pan American Highway passes through the city. The intercity bus station is located in the suburb of Ancon ( Ancon), the buses are quite comfortable and equipped with air conditioning. Panama is connected to Colón by a railway line running along the Canal. A passenger train runs along it once a day (used mainly by tourists). The basis of public transport in the city for about 40 years (until 2011-2013) was private buses (minibuses). Most of them were former school buses from Florida, repainted red. Due to their coloring and driving style, they received the nickname diablos rojos("Red Devil"). In 2011-2013, with the introduction of a modern municipal bus system, the "red devils" were completely removed from the city. The movement of municipal buses is run by MiBus. In order to ensure traffic safety, all buses are personally consecrated by the Archbishop of Panama, Jose Domingo Uyoa. Residents also make extensive use of taxis. A trip around the city usually costs less than 3 US dollars, to and from the airport - 30 dollars. In December 2010, the construction of the light metro began. The project, which is being implemented by a consortium of Mexican, Brazilian, Spanish, Italian and Japanese companies, required an investment of $1.8 billion. The opening of the first branch (14 kilometers, 13 stations) took place on April 5, 2014. This is the first subway in Central America, the commissioning of which will allow the capital to significantly relieve ground transport, which cannot cope with the flow of passengers. During rush hours in a city of 1.3 million people, there are constant traffic jams. Images View of Panama from Cerro Ancon The Republic of Panama is located on the isthmus of the same name, called the Isthmo by geographers, on one side of which is the Pacific Ocean and the other side is washed by the Caribbean Sea. The country is located between Costa Rica and Colombia at 9° northern latitude and 80° west longitude. The area of ​​the state is 75.5 thousand square kilometers. The length of the coastline is 2 thousand 490 kilometers. Panama has only two land borders. The Colombian-Panamanian border forms an impenetrable jungle 225 kilometers long and on the other side there is a border with Costa Rica 330 kilometers long. The territory of Panama is divided into ten provinces and autonomies - Panama, Colon, Chiriqui, Cocle, Darien, Herrera, Veraguas, Los Santos, Bocas del Torro, San Blas. From one of the Indian languages, the name "Panama" can be translated as "a place where there are a lot of fish." Type of government - democratic republic. The head of state and government is the president. The current president is Ricardo Martinelli and the vice president is Juan Carlos Varela. The Cabinet of Ministers is appointed by the President, and the President and Vice President are elected by popular vote every 5 years. The legislative body is the unicameral National Assembly (Asamblea Nacional) - 71 deputies, elected by the population for a five-year term. Relief of Panama The relief of the country is mainly made up of coastal plains, mountainous inner part and tropical jungle to the northwest and east. The main part of the minerals and natural resources that can be found on the territory of Panama is copper, teak and mohagon wood, asbestos quarries, fruit (bananas, pineapples, two types of coconuts, mangoes, etc.) plantations, a huge amount of fish and shrimp, hydro -electricity, huge reserves of fresh water. From the western border with Costa Rica to the central regions of Panama, the Cordillera de Veragua mountain range stretches. Within the ridge in its western part there are several volcanoes, including the highest point in the country - the active volcano Baru. It is the only active volcano in Panama. Its height reaches 3475 m. The width of the volcano caldera is 6 km. The last time the volcano erupted in 1550, it is expected that its next eruption will occur in 2035. Volkan Baru National Park is located on the slopes of the volcano. Also in the western part of Panama are the extinct volcanoes of La Eguada and El Valle. The climate of Panama Panama has a subequatorial type of climate. Throughout the year it is hot and humid, and fluctuations in average monthly temperatures do not exceed 2-3 degrees. The hottest is the Pacific coast of the country. Here, in the period from March to September, during the daytime, the air warms up to +34..+36 degrees, and at night it cools down to +20..+22 degrees. In the period from September to March, daytime air temperatures rise to +31..+33 degrees, and nighttime temperatures drop to +17..+19 degrees. On the Caribbean coast of Panama, the daily temperature variation is not so noticeable. From March to September during the day the air warms up to +30..+32 degrees, and at night it cools down to +23..+25 degrees. In a relatively cool season from September to March, daytime air temperatures reach +28..+30 degrees, nighttime temperatures drop to +20..+22 degrees. In the central mountainous regions of the country at altitudes of more than 1000 m above sea level, the air temperature is 7-8 degrees lower than on the coasts. During the year, up to 3500 mm of precipitation falls in Panama on the northern slopes of the mountains and on the Caribbean coast, and up to 2000 mm on the Pacific coast. Relatively dry season lasts from December to mid-April, rainy - from May to December. On the Pacific coast, these seasons are more pronounced: during the dry season, less than 50 mm of precipitation falls per month, and during the rainy season - 300-400 mm. On the Caribbean coast and on the northern slopes of the mountains, a fairly large amount of precipitation falls - from 200 to 400 mm per month. Also during the rainy season, powerful cyclonic eddies often come to the Caribbean coast, characterized by strong gusty winds and heavy rainfall, but the main path of tropical hurricanes characteristic of the Caribbean Sea passes to the north. It is worth noting that the rainy season has nothing to do with the phenomenon of the same name in East Asia. It doesn't rain continuously. Precipitation usually falls within 2-3 hours, and if it's raining in the capital, the sun may shine on the Caribbean or Pacific coast. The best time to travel to Panama is during the dry season. From the end of May, temperatures and humidity begin to rise rapidly, making moving around the country a real torture. Showers, although short-lived, are very intense, and the sun that comes out after them quickly dries the earth, but saturates the air with moisture. Flora and fauna of Panama The eastern part of Panama and the coast are covered with wet tropical forests- selva. There are many types of valuable trees in the country, such as the bakout tree, or the guayacán. The main decoration of the plant world of Panama is orchids, of which there are more than 300 species. Jaguars, cougars, and ocelots are still preserved in hard-to-reach areas. There are armadillos, tapirs, monkeys, sloths, tree porcupines. Deer and peccaries are found in mountain forests. There are up to 850 species of birds. Lots of snakes, scorpions, spiders, various insects. Panama is often called the kingdom of butterflies: more than 1100 species are known in the country, of which at least 5 species of giant butterflies "morpho" (wingspan - 15 cm). Nature and national parks of Panama About 30% of the territory of Panama is reserved for nature protection zones. There are more than 1,300 plant species in the country, many of which are relics, and about 950 bird species. Panama is considered one of the the best places on the planet for bird watching. Not far from Panama City is the Metropolitan National Park. The park is adjacent to the Panama Canal and is the only park in Latin America that protects the tropical forest within the metropolitan area. Here, on an area of ​​265 hectares, you can see a variety of birds (parakeets, toucans and orioles), butterflies, small mammals (sloths, titi monkeys and anteaters) and reptiles. Also, an exhibition of orchids is open for tourists, where species that grow only in Panama are presented. Metropolitan Park has an observation deck from where you can see the Panama Canal. The information center of the park is very interesting, where you will be told in detail about the possibilities of recreation here. Of the routes, we can highlight the 45-minute Mono Titi route and parts of the historical routes of Camino de Cruces and Cienequita, which were used by the Spaniards in ancient times. The Camino de Cruces route links many national parks. In the vicinity of Panama City, the Summit Botanical Gardens with an area of ​​250 hectares are also of interest. The gardens were formed in 1923. To date, the Summit has collected about 15,000 different exotic plants. A zoo was also set up here, where the national bird harpy eagle and tapir are represented. For harpy eagles, the zoo has one of the largest exhibition areas in the world ever created for a single species of bird. Here the life and features of this bird are presented in great detail. Soberania National Park. The area of ​​the park is 20 thousand hectares. It is located 40 km north of Panama City on the banks of the Panama Canal. Here, in a short period of time that the tour lasts, you can see the largest number bird species. In total, there are about 200 species of birds in the Soberania National Park, among which is one of the few populations of the largest bird of prey in the world - the harpy eagle. Barro Colorado Island, along with several peninsulas of the lake, is part of the Barro Colorado National Park in Gatun Lake, adjacent to Soberania National Park. The total area of ​​this protected area is 5.4 thousand hectares. Gatun Lake and Barro Colorado Island appeared during the construction of the canal, when a dam was built on the Chagres River. Inside the lake that arose as a result of the flood of the lake, a small area of ​​\u200b\u200bland with a height of 171 m remained unflooded. In 1923, the island of Barro Colorado was declared a protected area. In 1946, the Tropical Research Institute began to manage the reserve, which established the Tropical Research Laboratory here. In 1979, in addition to the island of Barro Colorado, the reserve included several peninsulas and the reserve received the status of a national park. The only way to get to the park is by boat from the village of Gamboa, which is located 38 km from Panama City. In order to visit Barro Colorado National Park, you must obtain a permit from the Tropical Research Institute. Visits to the park are paid, the ticket price includes lunch at the information center of the park. The information center of the park shows films about the history of the creation of the park and about its inhabitants. Barro Colorado Island can be circumnavigated in one day. The walk along the main route lasts only 45 minutes. All routes of the park pass through the forests, where many birds live. Not far from here, on the banks of the Chagres River, lies the Chagres National Park. It was created to protect riverbank ecosystems, which are the main source of water for the Panama Canal, the source of drinking water for many large cities in this part of the country, and the source of electricity for the cities of Panama City and Colon. The area of ​​the park is 129 thousand hectares. Its main attractions are the Chagres River and Lake Alajuela, on the banks of which numerous colonies of birds settle. The park also offers excursions to the villages of the Indian tribes "Embera" and "Wounan" living in these protected areas. During the excursions, you can get acquainted with the culture of the tribes, preserved from ancient times, with the process of making and coloring the cake by local craftsmen. Parts of two ancient roads pass through the park, along which Europeans exported Inca gold in the 16-18 centuries - these are Camino de Cruces and Camino Real. Cerro Jefe observation platform (1007 m) offers a breathtaking view of the Panama Canal. North of the Chagres National Park on the Caribbean coast is Portobelo National Park. Of the 34.9 thousand hectares of the park area, about 20% are maritime spaces, the rest is occupied by tropical rainforests. Of the other protected areas in the central part of the country, the Altos de Campanha National Park can be distinguished, which is located 60 km southwest of Panama City. The park protects tropical rain forests growing on the slopes of the mountains, and several mountain rivers. The total area of ​​the park is 4.8 thousand hectares. The forests are home to monkeys, feral pigs, over 175 bird species, and reptiles, including the endangered endemic golden frog. Further south on the east coast of the Azuero Peninsula lies the Sarigua National Park. The area of ​​the park is 8 thousand hectares. It is known for its archaeological sites - the ruins of the oldest Indian villages of pre-Columbian times, dating back to 9500-7000 BC. Fragments of ceramic objects and stone products were found here. Also on the Azuero Peninsula is the Cerro Joya National Park, which guards one of the last tracts of untouched Azuero forest. Off the southern coast of the Azuero Peninsula, on the islands of Canas and Iguana, there are wildlife preserves. The Kanas Island Sanctuary was established in 1994 to protect a 13 km stretch of coast where many turtles come to lay eggs every year. The most common species of turtle found here is the Olive Ridley Turtle. In the reserve, tourists are offered nightly observations of turtles. The Iguana Island Sanctuary covers an area of ​​53 hectares. Several species of turtles lay their eggs on the local beaches between April and September. The park also protects one of the largest reefs in the Gulf of Panama with an area of ​​16 hectares. Every year, humpback whales can be seen near the reefs, which migrate from the polar regions to the tropical regions through these places. Off the west coast of the Azuero Peninsula in Chiriqui Bay is the Coiba Island National Marine Park. Coiba Island is the second largest island in the Eastern Pacific (after Vancouver Island). Its area is 49 thousand hectares. In addition to the island of Coiba, the national park includes several other small islands. The total area of ​​the park is 270.1 thousand hectares. In 1910, a prison was built on the island of Coiba, which is still there today. Because of this, the forests covering the island have remained virtually untouched by human activity. In order to visit the Coiba National Park, you must obtain permission from the directorate of the colony. His undersea world considered one of the richest in the world, in addition, on some islands of the park from April to September, you can see turtles that sailed here to lay eggs, and this is the only place in the country where flocks of red macaws live. Damas Bay of Coiba Island is surrounded by 135 hectares of coral reef, which is the largest coral reef in Central America. In the extreme west of Panama is part of the La Amistad International Park. This is the first in the world biosphere reserve, which was created on the territory of two states. The other part of the park is located in Costa Rica. The Panama part of the reserve covers the mountain ranges stretching from Costa Rica, and covers an area of ​​​​207 thousand hectares. It is located on the territory of two provinces - Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro. The park information center in the province of Chiriqui is located in the village of Las Nubes, and in the province of Bocas del Toro, in the village of Panayungla. On the mountain slopes of the national park, there are forests inhabited by rare mountain cougars, jaguars and many birds, among which is the most beautiful bird of Central America - the quetzal. Volkan Baru National Park is located next to the La Amistad National Park in the province of Chiriqui. The park is located on the slopes of the highest point in the country - Baru volcano (3475 m). It occupies an area of ​​14.3 thousand hectares, on which tropical rainforests and volcanic landscapes extend. In clear weather, both coasts of Panama can be seen from the top of the Baru volcano. The park also offers routes to several craters of the volcano, during which you can see a huge variety of orchids, ferns, mosses and birds, such as quetzals and toucans. Off the northwest coast of Panama, in the southern part of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, is the Bastimientos Island National Marine Park. This is one of the few protected areas in Latin America where wildlife, indigenous tribes of the islands and coral reefs. Many of the park's beaches are nesting grounds for rare, endangered turtle species. Not far from here is Bird Island, which is famous for its colony of sea gulls. In the eastern part of Panama, on the territory of 579 thousand hectares, the Darien National Park is located. This is the largest protected area in the country and throughout the Caribbean. The park has a colossal diversity of flora and fauna, and the park is also notable for the tribes that have lived here since time immemorial and still retain their identity. On the territory of the park there are mountain ranges up to 2500 m high, navigable rivers, sandy beaches, rocky coasts, mangrove forests and swamps. Most of the park is covered by tropical rainforests, which are home to many endemic plant species and about 200 species of large mammals, including such rare view, like the jaguar, and about 500 species of birds, including the harpy eagle. The park is home to two Indian tribes, Embera and Waunan. Population of Panama The population of Panama as of July 2010 was 3.4 million. Annual increase - 1.5% (fertility - 2.5 births per woman). Infection with the immunodeficiency virus (HIV) - 1% (53rd place in the world, 2007 estimate), 20,000 people. Ethno-racial composition: mestizos (Mestizo) 70%, blacks, mulattoes and sambos 14%, whites 10%, Indians 6%. Birth rate - 20.18‰ (96th place in the world), mortality - 4.66‰ (196th place in the world), infant mortality 12.67 per 1000 newborns (139th place), average life expectancy - 77.25 years (74. 47 years for men, 80.16 years for women). Literacy - 91.9% (according to the 2000 census). The share of the urban population is 73%. The basis of the ethnos "Panamanians" are the descendants of the Spanish colonialists of the 16th century, partially mixed with the Indians, that is, mestizos, and mulattoes, who together make up 70% of the country's population. In addition to the Spaniards, here in the 19th and 20th centuries. other immigrants from Europe also migrated, mainly Italians. The minority are representatives of the indigenous population, the Indians of the Macro-Chibcha and Zhe-Pano-Caribbean families. There are also forest blacks (descendants of runaway black slaves living according to African traditions), cholos (Indians who lost their roots and switched to Spanish), and antillanos (immigrants from Jamaica and other Antilles. Consolidation of the nation occurred in the 19th century. Repeated attempts to secede from Colombia led the Panamanians to declare independence in 1903. According to cultural traditions, they are closest to Colombians, Costa Ricans and Hondurans. Source - http://ru.wikipedia.org/ http://www.panama.ru/ http://www.extratours.ru/country/strani/panama.html Article rating: (No ratings yet) Loading... To share with friends: Similar posts An example of a photo card of a laboratory chemist's working day Tree of knowledge of good and evil and moral freedom A new portal has appeared in the field of inclusive higher education Portal for support of inclusive education Perception, its types and properties Topic "process of perception"