Panama, in Central America, is known for its strategic canal that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Rich in history and culture, it boasts diverse landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to vibrant urban areas. Read more about Panama.
Panama Trivia Quiz Questions
- The famous Panama Hat originates from which country?
Ecuador
Panama
Mexico - The Panama Canal connects which two oceans?
Atlantic and Pacific
Indian and Pacific
Atlantic and Indian - Which ocean borders Panama to the south?
Pacific Ocean
Atlantic Ocean
Indian Ocean - What is Panama’s largest city?
Panama City
Colon
David - Which currency is used in Panama?
US Dollar
Panamanian Peso
Euro - What is the capital of Panama?
Panama City
San Jose
Mexico City - What is the national bird of Panama?
Harpy Eagle
Scarlet Macaw
Quetzal - What is the name of Panama’s indigenous tribe?
Kuna
Maori
Zulu - Panama’s biodiversity hotspot is called what?
Darien Gap
Amazon Rainforest
Serengeti - Which sea creature is abundant in Panama’s waters?
Humpback Whale
Great White Shark
Dolphin - In which year was the Panama Canal opened?
1914
1920
1908 - What is the main language spoken in Panama?
Spanish
English
French - Panama was part of which country before its independence?
Colombia
Spain
Mexico - What is the most popular sport in Panama?
Soccer
Baseball
Cricket - What is the famous coffee grown in Panama?
Geisha
Arabica
Robusta - Which famous pirate attacked Panama City in 1671?
Blackbeard
Henry Morgan
Captain Kidd - What is a popular Panamanian dish?
Sancocho
Tacos
Paella - Which body of water borders Panama to the north?
Caribbean Sea
Pacific Ocean
Indian Ocean - What is the famous festival celebrated in Panama?
Carnival
Diwali
Halloween - Panama’s highest point is which mountain?
Volcan Baru
Mount Everest
Kilimanjaro - What is the traditional Panamanian dress called?
Pollera
Kimono
Sari
The Panama trivia quiz answers are at the end of the page.
More About Panama
Geography
Panama is in Central America, bordered by Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the southeast. Its coastlines are along the Caribbean Sea to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the south. The country is characterised by its mountainous terrain, particularly the Cordillera de Talamanca and the Volcán Barú, its highest peak. Panama’s climate is tropical, with a distinct wet and dry season.
Demographics
Panama has a population of approximately 4 million. The population is ethnically diverse, including Mestizos, Afro-Panamanians, indigenous peoples, and smaller communities of Europeans and Asians. Spanish is the official language, though English is also widely understood. The predominant religion is Roman Catholicism, followed by Protestantism.
History
Panama’s history is marked by its role as a crossroads for global trade. It was part of the Spanish Empire until it gained independence in 1821, subsequently joining Gran Colombia before becoming fully independent in 1903. The construction of the Panama Canal, completed in 1914, significantly shaped its modern history, facilitating international maritime trade.
Government and Politics
Panama is a democratic republic with a president as the head of state and government. The political system features a multi-party structure. The current political scene is dominated by parties such as the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD) and the Panameñista Party. Elections are held every five years, with the most recent in 2019.
Economy
The Panamanian economy is primarily service-based, driven by activities related to the Panama Canal, banking, commerce, and tourism. Major exports include bananas, shrimp, sugar, and coffee. Panama has a growing economy with a relatively high GDP per capita for the region, buoyed by significant foreign investment and the strategic importance of the canal.
Culture
Panamanian culture is a blend of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Traditional music and dance, such as the tamborito, are integral to cultural celebrations. Key festivals include Carnival, celebrated with parades and dances, and the Festival de la Mejorana, which highlights folk traditions. Panamanian cuisine features staples like rice, beans, and plantains, often accompanied by seafood.
Education and Health
Panama has a structured education system, with compulsory schooling up to the secondary level. Literacy rates are relatively high, reflecting the government’s investment in education. The healthcare system comprises both public and private sectors, offering services that vary in quality. Major health concerns include tropical diseases, although healthcare infrastructure is improving.
Infrastructure
Panama boasts a well-developed infrastructure, particularly in transportation and communication. The Panama Canal is a vital waterway for global trade. The country has extensive road networks, railways, and modern airports, including Tocumen International Airport, a central hub in the region. Communication networks are advanced, with widespread internet and mobile phone coverage.
Environmental Issues
Panama faces environmental challenges such as deforestation, pollution, and the conservation of its rich biodiversity. Efforts are underway to address these issues, including establishing protected areas and national parks like Coiba National Park and Darien National Park, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Tourism
Tourism is a significant part of Panama’s economy, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Popular destinations include the Panama Canal, the Bocas del Toro archipelago, and the San Blas Islands. Visitors can enjoy diverse activities such as bird watching in Soberanía National Park, exploring historic sites in Panama City, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.
Panama Trivia Quiz Answers
- Ecuador
- Atlantic and Pacific
- Pacific Ocean
- Panama City
- US Dollar
- Panama City
- Harpy Eagle
- Kuna
- Darien Gap
- Humpback Whale
- 1914
- Spanish
- Colombia
- Baseball
- Geisha
- Henry Morgan
- Sancocho
- Caribbean Sea
- Carnival
- Volcan Baru
- Pollera