There are many exciting adventures to be had in Punta Paitilla, but head farther afield and you'll find more sightseeing magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can explore the greater area at your leisure. Add these fantastic drives to your to-do list:

• Colon is approximately 35 miles from Punta Paitilla. Well-known tourist spots like Gatun Locks should be at the top of your list here.
• Approximately 120 miles away, Santiago is also a favorite with wanderers. Allow time to experience Escuela Normal Juan Demostenes Arosemena while you're here. It's one of the reasons people love visiting this thriving city.
• Starfish Beach is around 190 miles from Punta Paitilla and is one of the region's most spectacular nature spots. Go for a walk around and enjoy the fresh air here.

If you don't possess a driver's license issued in Panama, then you might need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country to be allowed to rent a car. Please also consider that if you do need an IDP, it won't be valid on its own. You'll have to show your driver's license from your home country your passport and other forms of ID as well. Lastly, it's important that the credit card you used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your license and passport. Some other requirements to rent a car internationally are:

• Age restrictions: You need to be at least 25 in most countries to rent a car. If you're younger than that, it may still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of vehicles available to rent.
• Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before sliding behind the wheel. You typically can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or off road with your rental car.