Geography of Panama

The geological wonders of Panama

Situated at the confluence of two supercontinents, Panama is a natural bridge connecting North and South America bordered by Costa Rica and Colombia. The country covers 75,520 square kilometres (29,160 sq. mi). This unique position gives Panama an incredibly diverse geography, including rainforests, high mountain ranges and coastlines bordered by two large oceans. These geographical features not only make Panama an attractive country to study but also it also provide opportunities for natural resources and strategic geographical location. Most of the population lives in the capital Panama City and the cities of Colon and David.

The Strategic Location of Panama

The Panamanian strategic location, in the middle of the Americas, has always been one of the key advantages of doing business in or from Panama. The Panama Canal is famous for being an engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The canal also secures Panama’s ongoing role in international affairs and world commerce. This important waterway reinforced Panama’s position as a global export and trading hub. Shipping, logistics and international trade companies consider Panama’s geography a valuable asset, providing a shortcut that reduces time and costs for east-west maritime travel between the two.

The geographical diversity of Panama

Panama's landscape is characterized by a mix of mountains, tropical rainforests, and a coastline that stretches over 2,490 kilometres (1,547 miles) across the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The country's highest point, the Volcán Barú stands at 3,475 m (11,400 ft), while the vast Darién Gap in the east presents one of the most pristine rainforest experiences in the world. Panama boasts 480 rivers, most of which originate as torrents in the highlands, including the most important, the Río Chepo and the Río Charges, used to produce hydroelectric energy. There are 1,518 islands near Panama’s coast. The two main groups are the San Blas archipelago and the Bocas del Toro archipelago.

A Climate That Supports Biodiversity

Panama’s climate is tropical, with variations that support one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. The country is situated right on the isthmus which results in a particular climate that is one of the causes of the high biodiversity within its territory. From cloud forests in the mountains to coral reefs on the coast, Panama’s climate plays an important role in sustaining habitats. This ecosystem not only attracts tourists but provides opportunities for ecology tourism, and agricultural and medical research industries as well.

Conclusion: Panama's Geographic Advantage

Panama’s abundant biodiversity is more than just an environmental blessing; It also creates unique career opportunities. The country is home to thousands of species of plants and animals, many of which are endemic. This wealth of biodiversity has made Panama a hub for ecotourism and scientific research, attracting investors and entrepreneurs interested in sustainable business practices that contribute to the conservation of natural resources.

Sources & Foot Notes

[1] Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
[2] The Panama Canal
[3] UNDP Panama
[4] UNEP
[5] Encyclopedia Britannica - Panama