Museo Antropológico Reina Torres de Araúz

Frommer's Review

This is Panama's best anthropology museum, with more than 15,000 pre-Columbian pieces, including artifacts from the Barriles tribe, the earliest residents of Panama until 700 B.C. There is also an interesting collection of gold huacas, the tiny ceremonial figures that were buried with indigenous VIPs, as well as more modern pollera dresses and antique household items and farm tools.

Unfortunately, I cannot tell you how this museum will eventually look because bureaucratic bungling delayed its move from the Cinco de Mayo Plaza to its new home in the old Museo Tucán, which is a far prettier location on the edge of the Metropolitan Park. By the time you read this, the museum will -- fingers crossed -- be open and will feature a fresh design and extra funding. Considering that it's the pet project of the president's wife, Vivian, this might not be too far-fetched a wish. Please note that the hours of operation below could change.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.