Covering a land-bridge which links North and South America, the Republic of Panama is best known for its 40-mile long (65km) shipping canal, which is cut along a gap between mountains, linking the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean.

The name, Panama, means 'abundance of fish and butterflies', in an indigenous language, which gives a good indication of the wild wonders to be found here, beyond its rather daunting, but fascinating capital, Panama City.

Panama has a significant history stretching back thousands of years, from its eight indigenous peoples (including the colorful Kunas of the San Blas Islands) to its turbulent colonial occupation. Spanish forts stand along the coastline, overlooking the blue waters once patrolled by famous pirates like Henry Morgan, and where Sir Francis Drake was buried at sea.

It is the natural beauty of the isthmus that offers so much for visitors, however. Around 30 percent of Panama is made up of 15 national parks and forest reserves, and 10 wildlife sanctuaries, like the incredible Parque Nacional Darien, just a short drive from Panama City, which is the most magnificent wilderness area in Central America.

From the Word Travels destination guide to Panama copyright Globe Media 2011