Panama is widely considered as the most sophisticated, progressive, and outward-looking society in Central America. Panama boasts a culturally driven society with aspects from the U.S., Spain, Africa, the West Indies, China, India, Europe, and indigenous cultures. This blend of different cultures has molded Panama into an explosion of music, art, architecture, and a high-energy lifestyle. A journey across the country will take you through magnificent rainforests, past well-preserved indigenous communities, along pristine beaches, and to marvelous tropical islands teeming with life. HAPPYCAR is here to help you find the best car hire Panama has to offer so you can take full advantage of this vibrant country. We check the prices of international and local providers so that you don’t have to check each website to provide you with the best deals on a car rental in Panama to make your money go further. Use our online comparison portal to book your next rental car, specific to your vacation needs.
General Information
During colonial times, Panama acted as the shipping hub of Central and South America. From here, ships laden with silver made the journey across the Atlantic to the Spanish mainland. In 1821, Panama joined the rest of Central America in a massive uprising against the Spanish crown, and joined Colombia. For the next 82 years, Panama tried unsuccessfully to separate from Colombia, and experienced numerous riots, administrations, and U.S. interventions. Finally, in 1903, Panama gained its independence with the backing of the United States government; however, their independence came at a price. The United States was to have canal rights over the 10 mile wide strip across the isthmus, as well as considerable influence over domestic affairs in Panama. Over the course of the century, Panama was given more sovereignty by the U.S. and in 1999, the U.S. formally handed over control of the canal to Panama.
Take advantage of your Panama car hire
A car rental Panama will open up a myriad of opportunities for you to enjoy the country at your own leisure. Begin your journey in the capital of the nation, Panama City. Few cities in Latin America can match the diversity and cosmopolitanism of this vibrant metropolis. Its atmosphere resembles that of the colossal trading cities of Asia, and enjoys a colorful mixture of cultures and languages. Nowhere else in Central America will you hear so many different languages being spoken as you walk down the active streets and through the bustling markets. The old city center, known as Casco Viejo, is perhaps the most attractive and interesting area of the city. Here you will find Panama City’s most important historical and cultural buildings. If you wish to gain a panoramic view of the city and of ships awaiting passage through the canal, you can walk along the Paseo Las Bóvedas, which runs along the top of the old city’s defensive wall.
For a truly authentic Central American experience, you can visit the mountain town of Boquete. This idyllic town is famous for its cool climate and pristine natural setting. The area is bursting with floral life, including a slew of flamboyant flowers, aromatic coffee, colorful vegetables, and fragrant citrus fruits. The locals are a friendly bunch and will greet strangers with warm coffee and kind words. Avid adventurers will immediately fall in love with the impressive hiking, trekking, rafting, and nature tours available in the region surrounding Boquete. A short trip from Boquete, the Volcán Barú National Park is a favorite spot for trekking and hiking. At 3,474 meters above sea level, the imposing mountain is the largest in Panama, and is home to over 250 species of birds, as well as all five species of big cats.
Book now with HAPPYCAR and take full advantage of the flexibility and freedom of a Panama car rental. Our quick and onilne comparison portal provides you with a great springboard into your adventures. The HAPPYCAR team wishes you a pleasant journey!