Balboa
Panama · Americas
About Balboa
Balboa is separated from Panama City by the Cerro Ancon (Ancon Hill), one of Panama City's skyline landmarks.
Balboa travel guide
Understand
Balboa is a town in the province of Panama at the mouth of the Panama Canal on the Pacific Ocean. Founded by the United States during the construction of the canal, it was the capital of the former Canal Zone until 1999. It is a residential and port area with modern facilities serving national and international trade.
Getting there
5 minutes north of Balboa you'll find Albrook with its airport that handles all domestic flights and the huge Albrook Mall which is also home of the 'Gran Terminal' where all buses to/from Panama city arrive and depart. The main port of Balboa is for big commercial vessels only but the Balboa Yacht club, actually in nearby Amador, serves the cruising community.
Getting around
From downtown Panama City: You can get there by car or taxi in about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Take Avenida de los Mártires and head straight until you cross Cerro Ancón. By bus: From the Albrook Grand Terminal, you can take a bus heading to Balboa or nearby areas like Amador. You can also use Metrobus services if you have a rechargeable card. By bike or on foot (if you’re into some exercise): There are routes that connect with the Amador Causeway and Cerro Ancón, perfect for those who enjoy a scenic walk or a peaceful bike ride.
See
Besides many ACP administrative buildings, its landmark head office, there is a large residential area and a port. Like other residential areas built by the Americans the setup is very spacious and green as opposed to the typical Panamanian urban planning.
Do
In addition to housing numerous ACP administrative buildings, including its iconic main building, Balboa boasts a large residential area and a port. Like other residential areas built by the Americans, its layout is very spacious, surrounded by green areas, restaurants, and a theater. All of this, with a touch of typical Panamanian urban planning.
Buy
Country Store & Café, 583, Cl Tomás Guardia, Altos de Balboa, Ancon (near the Canal Administration Building), ☏ +507 232-7204. 8AM-6:30PM. Offers fresh organic food in a natural setting where it's easy to enjoy the local wildlife. The store has produce as well as artisan crafts. $12.
Eat
Niko's Cofé - Affordable to eat. Chinatown Buffet - Chinese and local food buffet. Balboa Food Court.
Drink & nightlife
Palo 'e Mango Garden Spot — It's a great place to grab a bite to eat and a drink minutes from Balboa.
Sleep
Hostel The Balboa Inn. Hostel Amador Familiar.
Go next
Panama City - capital city Taboga - island
Overview adapted from Wikipedia, travel guide fromWikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Photography via Wikimedia Commons.