Speaking at WTM London on 1 November, Monique Vega, counsellor for tourism affairs at the Embassy of Panama in the United Kingdom, said the five-year “master plan” will see the country “uniting to put sustainability on the front foot”. 

Investment in tourism infrastructure and collaboration with local communities will create new product that gives back to local economies, while educating tourists on the importance of local, sustainable experiences. 

“The new master plan transcends government and is in line with today’s trends for experiential travel in a post-pandemic world,” said Vega. 

Panama is one of three countries in the world, alongside Bhutan and Suriname, to have achieved carbon-negative status this year, meaning its forests absorb more greenhouse gases than the country emits through tourism activity.

“We have the attention of the world now [regarding sustainability],” said Vega, “and now this [accolade] has made us more committed to the cause.”

New responsible tourism experiences in the pipeline include tours that visit the country’s seven indigenous tribes; whale watching experiences; turtle conservation and tree planting projects; as well as trips to discover the country’s coffee farms. 

Vega added that being an off-the-tourist-trail destination could encourage adventurous and socially conscious travellers to visit. “We are perfect for visitors who want to discover a new destination, and being relatively unknown could be our biggest asset.”

Vega added that the destination had received “international recognition” for its speedy Covid-19 response – it was one of the first countries to enter a strict lockdown – and 89% of residents are now double-jabbed.

“We recognise the importance of safety and security, while offering a tourism product that offers plenty of open spaces”, she added.