Panama Pan-American Highway
Panama
Panama’s Pan-American Highway is the country’s main road spine, running from Panama City across fertile lowlands and rolling cattle country to the border at Paso Canoas. It’s a straightforward long-distance drive with steady traffic near the capital and a more relaxed pace west of the interior highlands.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Panama City
Busy capital start with skyline views and canal traffic nearby. The highway quickly leaves the city for open lowlands.
- Bridge of the Americas
Iconic bridge spanning the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. It marks the road out of the capital toward the interior.
- Santiago de Veraguas
A practical midway city with gas, food, and service stops. The pace slows here as the road turns west through ranch country.
- Las Tablas
Small regional town known for strong local traditions and lively streets. It offers a good break before the final run west.
- David
Chiriquí's largest city and a major road hub. Traffic, shops, and services cluster here before the border zone.
- Paso Canoas Border Crossing
Busy frontier crossing at the Costa Rica border. The highway ends amid trucks, trade, and the last checkpoint.
Where to Eat
- Mercado de MariscosSeafood
A classic Panama City stop for ceviche, fried fish, and cold drinks. It is an easy place to eat before heading west.
- El TrapichePanamanian
Popular for sancocho, ropa vieja, and other home-style dishes. It is a solid lunch stop in the capital area.
- Fonda Lo Que HayPanamanian
Modern take on local flavors with fresh ingredients and bold seasoning. Good for a relaxed meal near the city start.
- Mami's RestaurantPanamanian
Casual roadside-style cooking with generous portions and familiar regional plates. A convenient break in central Panama.
- La Strega RistoranteItalian
A dependable dinner stop in David with pasta, pizza, and steak. Useful if you want a comfortable meal before the border.
Things to Do
- Miraflores LocksCanal landmark
Watch massive ships rise and fall through the Panama Canal. The visitor center gives a close look at one of the country's top sights.
- BiomuseoMuseum
Bright Frank Gehry-designed museum on the Amador Causeway. Its exhibits focus on Panama's unique role between two oceans.
- Plaza Catedral and Casco ViejoHistoric district
Walk colonial streets, churches, and plazas in the old quarter. It is one of the best short stops before hitting the highway.
- Museo de la NacionalidadMuseum
A small cultural stop that adds context to the interior drive. It is easy to pair with a meal or fuel break in Santiago.
- Parque Recreativo Omar TorrijosPark
Green space for a quick stretch in David. It offers shade, walking paths, and a calm break from highway traffic.