Panama is not a prominent destination on the Israeli tourism map. Only few Israelis have visited the country, and most of them traveled for family celebrations or business rather than leisure. Meanwhile, Panama’s neighbor, Costa Rica, has become a favorite among organized Israeli tour groups. Yet, Panama remains a sought-after travel destination for visitors from many countries, just not from Israel.

Why is this the case?

Travel agents often point to the long flight distance. But Panama’s ambassador to Israel, H.E. Ezra Cohen, rejects this explanation. He argues that many Israelis regularly fly to Thailand, a journey just as long as a flight to Panama.

In our opinion, the real reason is marketing. Costa Rica actively promotes its rainforests and beaches and organizes familiarization tours for Israeli travel agents and journalists. Despite boasting similar attractions, including lush rainforests, volcanoes, pristine white beaches, and cultural landmarks not found in Costa Rica, Panama has yet to do the same.

Birdwatching at Gamboa Rainforest Reserve Tower

However, this is about to change. Last month, Panama held its first-ever tourism event in Tel Aviv targeting travel agents from the religious sector. Leading the initiative are three key Jewish figures in Panama’s tourism industry, spearheaded by Solomon Shamah, former Minister of Tourism. Today, international tourism in Panama is managed by PROMTUR Panama, a government-owned company where Shamah serves as CEO. Now, with the Panamanian government allocating a substantial budget for global tourism promotion, Solomon Shamah has chosen to begin the campaign in Israel.

To develop the Israeli market, he appointed Salo Watemberg, a kippah-wearing Orthodox Jew, as a strategic consultant. Watemberg divides his time between Panama City and Jerusalem, and five of his sons serve in the IDF, both in active duty and reserve service. Together, Shamah and Watemberg are working to put Panama on the radar for Israeli travelers.

They bring with them extensive experience in promoting Jewish tourism. In the past, they successfully launched campaigns targeting American Jews, increasing Panama’s Jewish tourism. When Ezra Cohen headed the local Jewish community, he organized an annual Kosher Fest during the Beyn Hazmanim holiday season. Instead of their usual vacations in Miami, yeshiva students from across the U.S. and Canada were invited to Panama, where they could enjoy similar experiences at significantly lower prices. The campaign proved highly successful, significantly boosting Jewish tourism.

"Panama offers huge advantages for religious travelers" says Shamah. ”First and foremost- safety. In Panama City, you can walk around freely wearing a kippah and tzitzit, without the concerns Jewish tourists face in Europe. We have five magnificent synagogues, each holding three daily prayer services, as well as around 50 kosher restaurants spanning all levels and cuisines. And that’s before we even talk about our incredible tourist attractions."

Ambassador Cohen agrees, adding: "Jewish life here is amazing. Today, Israeli tourists feel uneasy in many parts of the world, but in Panama there is no anti-Semitism. Every tourist is treated with respect. There are even taxi drivers who speak Hebrew."

Strategic consultant Salo Watemberg elaborates: "In Panama City alone, there are 48 kosher restaurants, many of which are gourmet establishments popular even among non-Jews, requiring reservations well in advance. In no other city in the world outside of Israel are there so many kosher restaurants. We are also working with hotels to ensure that every dining room will include a kosher breakfast buffet with designated kosher utensils. I'm also trying to arrange a 'Shabbat Elevator' in every hotel in Panama City. Additionally, there are five magnificent synagogues, and for those who need a mikveh, we have several available."

Overcoming Travel Challenges

One of the key challenges in attracting Israeli tourists to Panama is the cumbersome flight connections, which often require layovers and plane changes. However, Ambassador Ezra Cohen is actively negotiating with El Al to establish a direct flight route. In the meantime, Solomon Shamah has already secured charter flights to Panama starting July 2025.

With these new initiatives in place, Panama may soon become a rising star for Israeli travelers.

When Ezra Cohen was appointed Panama’s ambassador to Israel, President José Raúl Mulino gave him a clear directive: "I want you to expand the embassy because we need Israeli technological expertise, especially in water management and high-tech, And we also need Israeli tourists to strengthen the ties between our countries."

While Panama offers exceptional Jewish infrastructure, including synagogues and kosher restaurants, that alone isn’t enough to attract tourists. According to strategic consultant Salo Watemberg, Panama is an exciting destination that caters to all types of travelers, whether they seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion.

Top Attractions in Panama

Here are just a few of the highlights that make Panama a must-visit destination:

• Panama Canal – More than just an engineering marvel, the canal is surrounded by lush jungles and diverse wildlife.
• Casco Viejo – The historic district of Panama City, with its charming colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and rich cultural history.
• Bocas del Toro – A stunning Caribbean archipelago known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and laid-back beach atmosphere, offering top-tier snorkeling and diving experiences.
• Boquete – A picturesque mountain town famous for its world-class coffee plantations, birdwatching opportunities, and the breathtaking quetzal.
• San Blas Islands – A collection of pristine Caribbean islands with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for sailing and snorkeling.
• Coiba National Park – A paradise for divers and nature lovers, home to incredible marine biodiversity and unspoiled coral reefs.
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• Santa Catalina – A hidden gem in the Pearl Archipelago, featuring untouched beaches and scenic hiking trails through tropical forests.

A Climate That Feels Like Summer All Year Round

Panama enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: summer and winter. However, unlike in Israel, winter in Panama simply means occasional rain showers.
"There’s a heavy downpour for about half an hour, and then the sky clears up again," explains Ambassador Cohen. With an average temperature of 27°C (81°F) year-round, it’s a destination where summer never truly ends.

Is Panama the Next Big Thing for Israeli Travelers?

After hearing the enthusiastic descriptions from Salomon Shamah, Ezra Cohen, and Salo Watemberg, Panama sounds like a dream destination. One that has remained under the radar for Israeli tourists for too long.

Tempting, isn’t it?

I plan to visit Panama soon to experience its wonders firsthand. Stay tuned for my impressions, recommendations, and an in-depth guide before the summer travel season.