Gamboa Rainforest Resort

A 30-minute drive from the throbbing heart of Panama City, this eco-adventure lodge sits at the edge of a vast, pristine jungle, Soberanía National Park. On 340 lush acres that once made up the Panama Canal Zone, the resort itself is modern and well appointed, if a little ordinary in its minimal décor. Eye-popping excursions include the Aerial Tram through the rainforest canopy, night safari into the adjoining wilderness, and fantastic bird-watching.

Insider Tip: Make a reservation at the restaurant (011-507-232-3120) inside the nearby Miraflores locks for an up-close view of the container ships that wend their way between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.