Panama is located in the dead center of the continental divide and is bordered by Colombia to the south, Costa Rica to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. The country is relatively small, with a population nearing just 4 million citizens. Still, because of the strategic importance of the Panama Canal, the nation remains a very prominent player within the American landscape.

Panama City, which is built on the Pacific mouth of the Panama Canal, is the country’s capital, largest city, and is called home by nearly half of Panama’s population. While Panama City was founded roughly 500 years ago, today it consists mostly of high rise buildings and boasts a very modern infrastructure. A high school program abroad in Panama City will expose you to one the most globally influential and culturally diverse cities in all of Latin America.

Other potential destinations where you can embark on a high school program abroad in Panama include Boquete and Bocas del Toro, both smaller destinations where you can have a much more intimate experience of Panamanian culture away from the big city. Some high school programs will also take you travelling across several different locations throughout Panama and Central America.