Things To Do
in Ancón
Ancón is a district located in Panama City, Panama, known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. The area is popular among tourists and locals alike for its tranquil atmosphere and opportunities for water activities such as swimming and surfing. Ancón also has a rich history, with landmarks such as the historic Hotel Ejecutivo and the Biomuseo, a museum dedicated to the biodiversity of Panama.
Visitors can enjoy delicious seafood at the various restaurants along the coastline and explore the cultural attractions in the surrounding areas.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Qué tal?" - What's up?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk along the sandy shores of Playa Ancón. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
After lunch, indulge in some water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for exploring underwater life.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beachside dinner at a local restaurant. The vibrant atmosphere and fresh seafood make for a memorable evening.
Visit the historic ruins of Ancón, where you can learn about the area's rich history. A local guide will provide insights into the significance of the site.
Explore the nearby Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its charming streets and colonial architecture. Stop for lunch at a café serving traditional Panamanian dishes.
Conclude your day with a guided night tour of the area. Witness the illuminated architecture and feel the vibrant nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location as a key port area with access to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse community.
- Comprehensive infrastructure development and ongoing investment.
- Growing economy supported by the Panama Canal and maritime activities.
- Pleasant tropical climate attractive for tourists and residents.
- Challenges with traffic congestion and urban sprawl.
- Limited access to certain services and amenities in some areas.
- Environmental concerns, particularly related to coastal development.
- Potential for crime and safety issues in certain neighborhoods.
- Dependence on tourism and maritime industries which can lead to economic vulnerability.
Best Activities in Ancón
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park while hiking on its well-maintained trails.
Enjoy the waves and beautiful coastline for a day of surfing at Playa Santa Clara.
Discover the underwater beauty of Taboga Island through snorkeling or scuba diving.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ancón with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ancón
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Panama City, the Panama Canal, and the surrounding area.
Located near Ancón, this iconic bridge offers great photo opportunities with views of ships crossing the Panama Canal and the city skyline in the background.
A hill in the area with hiking trails and lookout points providing beautiful vistas of the city and surrounds.
Food in Ancón
Ancón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, often with onions, peppers, and cilantro. Must-try at Ceviches y Mariscos El Chino.
Must-Try!
A classic Panamanian dish featuring rice and chicken cooked in flavorful broth. Best enjoyed at Restaurante Mi Ranchito.
Shredded beef stewed in a savory tomato-based sauce, commonly served with rice and plantains. Sample the best at El Trapiche.
Steamed pockets of corn dough filled with a variety of savory ingredients such as chicken, pork, or vegetables. Try authentic tamales at Donde José.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ancón better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling seafood market where you can savor freshly prepared ceviche and other seafood delights straight from the vendors.
Explore a wide array of street food vendors offering local snacks, grilled meats, and refreshing beverages along the scenic Balboa Avenue.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ancón, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversation or queuing in public spaces.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Ancón, so it is customary to show deference and consideration to older individuals in social interactions and public settings.
Politeness in speech and gestures is crucial in Ancón, so using please, thank you, and offering polite gestures like handshakes or nods is considered respectful behavior.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ancón with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ancón
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ancón, Panama, tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers is also a common practice.
Payment in Ancón, Panama is primarily done in cash, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit cards are widely accepted in larger businesses and hotels. It's advisable to carry both cash and cards for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ancón.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with warm, sunny weather and ideal for outdoor activities. Expect higher tourist numbers and prices.
Expect frequent rain showers, lush green landscapes, and lower tourist numbers. Good for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter experience.
Ancón at Night
Hiking in Ancón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park located near Panama City, offering various hiking trails through tropical rainforest with opportunities to see diverse wildlife.
A prominent hill in Panama City, providing a short but rewarding hike with panoramic views of the city and the Panama Canal.
A green oasis in the heart of Panama City with well-maintained trails, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Famed for birdwatching, this trail follows an old pipeline through the rainforest and is ideal for hikers looking for a longer trek.
A large national park that offers various hiking opportunities along rivers and through dense forests, ideal for those looking to explore nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ancón through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ancón by plane.
The main international airport serving Panama City and is located approximately 24 km from Ancón.
Located in the city of David, about 420 km from Ancón, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights.
Located in David, about 460 km from Ancón, offers several international flights mainly to destinations in Central America.
Located in Liberia, Costa Rica, about 350 km from Ancón, this airport serves numerous international flights to North America and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mixed ethnic group of Spanish and Indigenous ancestry, making up the majority of the population in Ancón.
Individuals of African descent, primarily descendants of enslaved Africans brought to Panama.
Various Indigenous groups, including the Ngäbe-Buglé and Embera, represented in smaller numbers.
Residents with European ancestry, including individuals from Spanish, Italian, and other European backgrounds.
Small communities of Asian descent, including Chinese and South Asian populations.
The Soul of Ancón
Discover the essence of Ancón through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Ancón, with many local teams and community support for both youth and adult leagues.
Baseball enjoys a large following in Ancón, with many players participating in local tournaments and a strong historical presence in Panama.
Basketball is widely played in Ancón, with local courts available for recreational play and organized competitions.
Volleyball is a favored sport in Ancón, often played on the beach and in community centers, attracting a mix of players of all ages.
With access to coastal areas, surfing is a popular activity among locals and visitors, particularly in the nearby beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ancón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Panamanian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan choices, such as plantain-based dishes, fresh salads, and vegetable stews.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options like corn-based tortillas, seafood ceviche, and rice-based dishes at accommodating eateries throughout Ancón.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ancón with these cultural adventures.
