The Ultimate Guide To Visiting The Pearl Islands Panama

In the North Pacific Ocean in the Gulf of Panama lies a mostly uninhabited collection of islands, known to locals as Islas de las Perlas, or the Pearl Islands of Panama. More than 250 tiny islands make up this archipelago, and they have been known as such since Spanish colonial days, because of the many pearls that were found on them.

The largest island, Isla Del Ray, is not nearly as popular to tourists as is Contadora Island. Contadora offers phenomenal resorts, hotels, and an airport, making for easy, breezy travel. Isla Saboga is another favorite, giving a glimpse into traditional island culture.

The Pearl Islands are most famous for their white-sand beaches, the amazing opportunities for scuba diving and whale watching they offer visitors, and their awe-inspiring, delicate ecosystems. Flora and fauna are protected on the islands by Panamanian law to preserve this extraordinary abundance of life.

The Pearl Islands now boast an array of hotels, hostels, resorts, restaurants, and other luxury amenities that are expected by tourists. Some places are still quite expensive, while others are now offering more affordable accommodations. Snorkeling, whale watching, scuba diving, beach visits, and island tours are among the most popular activities to enjoy when visiting this little piece of paradise.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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