How big is Panama?

Panama has an area of 75,517 square kilometers (29,157 square miles), which makes it slightly smaller than Ireland and the U.S. state of South Carolina. Combined together, the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines of Panama measure some 2,857 kilometers (1,775 miles). The border with Costa Rica is 330 kilometers (205 miles), while the border with Colombia is 225 kilometers (140 miles). The 80-kilometer (50-mile) Panama Canal cuts the country roughly in half.

Aside from the Caribbean coast and most parts of the Darién, Panama is well connected by roads. Most roads are in good condition and traverse a variety of environments, including mountains, plains, and beaches. In some places, you can drive from the coast to the highlands in an hour. Panama may be small, but it packs a lot into its borders.

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