PANAMA

Panama, a narrow land bridge connecting North and South America, is most famous for its eponymous canal, an engineering marvel linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. This strategic location has shaped its history, from indigenous communities to Spanish colonization and its eventual independence in 1903. Beyond the canal, Panama is a vibrant tropical nation boasting diverse rainforests, volcanic peaks, and stunning coastlines.

Region: Central America

Capital: Panama City

Official Language: Spanish

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise normal precautions in most areas. Be highly cautious in Colón Province, some parts of Panama City, and areas near the Colombian border due to high crime rates.

A map of Central America with Panama highlighted.

Why Visit Panama?

Beaches & Islands: Pristine shores in Bocas del Toro, San Blas, and Santa Catalina.

Biodiversity Hotspot: Explore rainforests (Darien, Soberanía National Park) and spot sloths, monkeys, and toucans.

Casco Viejo: UNESCO-listed colonial charm with rooftop bars and cobblestone streets.

A small, tropical island with palm trees, surrounded by clear turquoise water.

Affordable Luxury: World-class resorts at lower costs than Caribbean neighbors.

Indigenous Cultures: Visit Guna Yala (San Blas) or Emberá villages.

Panama Canal: Marvel at this engineering wonder (Miraflores Locks).

A small, idyllic sandy beach with palm trees overhanging the clear blue ocean.

Essential Trip Information

Panama’s entry rules vary by nationality. Check official visa requirements here.

Many nationalities (including U.S., Canada, EU, UK, Australia) receive a 90-day tourist stamp on arrival.

Passports must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation, and US$500+ in funds.

Tourist cards (US$20–100) may apply depending on nationality.

Panama uses the U.S. Dollar (US$) and the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), which is pegged 1:1 to USD.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs offer better rates.
  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs (Banco General, Scotiabank). Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted, but carry US$20–50 cash for rural areas.
  • What to Avoid: Dynamic currency conversion (choose USD) and street money changers.

Spanish is official; English is spoken in tourist areas.

Helpful phrases: “Buenos días,” “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (“Good morning,” “How much?”)

Generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas (Albrook Bus Terminal, Casco Viejo).

Avoid walking alone at night in certain Panama City neighborhoods (e.g., El Chorrillo).

Emergency number: 911.

Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid (check CDC guidelines).

Malaria/Dengue risk in rural areas (use repellent).

Tap water is safe in cities; stick to bottled water in remote regions.

Pharmacies (Farmacias Arrocha, Metro) are widely available.

Buses: Cheap but slow; long-distance (e.g., Panama City to David: US$15–25).

Metro (Panama City): US$0.35–1.50/ride.

Taxis/Uber: Uber is cheaper than cabs (negotiate taxi fares upfront).

Domestic flights: Air Panama & Copa connect major destinations.

Car rentals: US$30–60/day (highway tolls apply).

Panama City is moderately priced; Bocas del Toro and tourist hubs can be pricier.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostels (US$15–30), budget hotels (40–80/night)

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$90–150/night)

  • Luxury: 5-star resorts (US$200+/night)

Food:

  • Quick eats: Street food (US$2–5), local cafeˊs 5–10)

  • Casual dining: US$12–25/person

  • Fine dining: US$40+/person

Drinks:

  • Beer: US$1–3 (stores), 3–5 (bars)

  • Cocktails: US$6–12

Transportation:

  • City buses: US$0.25–1.50

  • Taxis: US$3–10 (short trips); Uber (cheaper in Panama City)

  • Domestic flights: US$50–150 (e.g., Panama City to Bocas)

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Eat at local fondas (cheap Panamanian meals).

  • Take public buses (Metrobus) in Panama City.

  • Visit free attractions (Casco Viejo, Amador Causeway).

Explore Panama

A monumental feat of engineering, this waterway connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Witness massive ships traverse the Miraflores Locks, located just outside Panama City, and visit the interactive museum to understand its global significance.

Panama City’s historic colonial quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is brimming with beautifully restored buildings, charming plazas, and lively nightlife. It’s located on a peninsula in Panama City, offering stunning views of the modern skyline.

An archipelago of over 365 pristine islands and cays, largely untouched by mass tourism and managed by the indigenous Guna Yala people. These idyllic islands are on Panama’s Caribbean coast, offering crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches.

A vibrant island province known for its biodiverse rainforests, stunning beaches, and lively surf scene. This Caribbean gem is located in the northwest of Panama, near the Costa Rican border.

Nestled in the Chiriquí Highlands, this charming mountain town is famous for its cool climate, coffee plantations, and abundant outdoor activities like hiking and whitewater rafting. It’s located in western Panama, in the province of Chiriquí.

A UNESCO World Heritage marine reserve, offering unparalleled opportunities for diving and snorkeling amidst rich marine life, including whales and sharks. This protected area is off Panama’s Pacific coast, southwest of Veraguas province.

A unique mountain town situated within the caldera of an extinct volcano, offering cooler temperatures, lush landscapes, and attractions like hot springs and a local artisan market. It’s located in the central mountains of Panama, in the Coclé province.

A vast and wild rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. This remote and largely unexplored region is located in eastern Panama, bordering Colombia.

A historic Caribbean port town, once a crucial Spanish colonial trading hub, now featuring impressive ruins of forts and a vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. It’s located on Panama’s Caribbean coast, in the Colón province.

Known as the “Island of Flowers,” this small volcanic island offers a tranquil escape with beautiful beaches and a quaint village. It’s easily accessible by ferry from Panama City in the Pacific Ocean.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Lush Green Landscapes
  • Pacific Coast Surfing (May-November)
  • Whale Watching (July-October)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Higher Rainfall
  • Increased Humidity
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (some hiking trails can be muddy)
  • Occasional Afternoon Showers

Key Regions:

  • Pacific Coast Beaches: Excellent for surfing and fewer people.
  • Bocas del Toro: Still beautiful, with a chance of rain but lower prices.
  • Panama City: City attractions remain accessible and less crowded.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (transitioning)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (e.g., Feria Internacional de Azuero in April)
  • Improved Visibility for Diving

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (can have some rain)
  • Prices start to rise in December
  • Some areas still drying out from the wet season

Key Regions:

  • Chiriquí Highlands (Boquete): Pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring.
  • San Blas Islands: Perfect for sailing and island hopping before the peak.
  • Panama Canal: Good visibility and fewer queues at the locks.
  • Azuero Peninsula: Great for cultural events and exploring authentic towns.
  • December – April (Dry Season)
  • Carnaval (February/March)
  • Easter Week (Semana Santa)

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A handshake or light hug is common. Say “Buenas” (hello).

Dress Code: Casual but modest in rural areas. Resort wear is fine at beaches.

Tipping:

  • Restaurants: 10% is customary (check if service charge is included).
  • Taxis: Round up the fare.

Bargaining: Acceptable in markets (e.g., Mola textiles), not in stores.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$10–25),hotels 50–150), luxury (US$200+).

Food: Street food (US$2–5), casual meal 8–15), fine dining (US$30+).

Transport: City buses (US$0.25–1.50), 3–10), domestic flights (US$50–150).

Activities: Free (beaches, hiking), tours (US$20–100), San Blas trips 100+).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$30–50 (hostels, street food, buses).

  • Mid-range: US$80–150 (hotels, tours, meals).

  • Luxury: US$200+ (resorts, private guides).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in cafes, malls, and hotels.

SIM Cards:

  • Digicel/Movistar (US$5–10 for 1–5GB).

eSIMs: Supported (Airalo, Holafly).

Recommended for: Medical emergencies, trip cancellations (common in rainy season).

Adventure coverage: Needed for hiking, surfing, or jungle tours.

Healthcare: Private clinics are affordable but insurance is wise.

Tip: Check if your policy covers remote areas (e.g., San Blas, Darien).

From luxury high-rises to jungle eco-lodges, Panama caters to all budgets.

Luxury:

  • Waldorf Astoria (Panama City), Nayara Bocas del Toro (overwater bungalows).

Mid-Range:

  • Tantalo Hotel (Panama City), Selina Hostels (Bocas, Boquete).

Budget:

  • Hostels (US$10–25/night), 30–60).

Unique Stays:

  • Treehouse lodges (Gamboa), eco-resorts (Isla Palenque).

Tip: In San Blas, options are basic (no electricity in some cabins)—pack accordingly.

Panama’s transport varies from modern city transit to rustic island boats.

Metro & Buses (Panama City):

  • Metro de Panamá (Line 1 & 2) – Cheap (US$0.35–0.75), connects major areas.
  • Metrobús (US$0.25–1.50) – Requires a reloadable card (sold at stations).

Taxis & Rideshares:

  • Uber is affordable (US$3–10 for short trips).
  • Yellow taxis – Negotiate fares beforehand (no meters).

Domestic Flights:

  • Air Panama & Copa Airlines connect to Bocas del Toro, David, and San Blas (US$50–150 one-way).

Boats & Ferries:

  • Essential for islands (Bocas del Toro, San Blas, Pearl Islands).

Car Rentals:

  • Useful for road trips (e.g., Panama City → Boquete). Avoid driving in the city (chaotic traffic).

Tip: For San Blas, book a 4×4 transfer (rough roads) and confirm boat schedules in advance.

Handy Tips

Panama uses the US Dollar (US$) as its official currency. Bills and coins are identical to those in the U.S. (pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters).

  • Exchanging Currency: ATMs (called “cajeros automáticos”) offer the best rates. Avoid exchanging at airports or street vendors.

  • Using Cards: Major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in cities, but carry cash for rural areas, markets, and small vendors.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants/Bars: 10% is standard (check if service charge is included).

    • Taxis: Round up or tip 5–10% for long rides.

    • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; 2–5 per day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for group tours.

Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Helpful phrases:

  • “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where’s the bathroom?)

  • “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much is this?)

  • “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please).

  • Pro Tip: Panamanians are friendly—greet with “Buenas” (Good day) before asking questions.

Panama is generally safe, but be cautious in crowded areas (e.g., Albrook Bus Terminal) and avoid walking alone at night in certain neighborhoods (e.g., El Chorrillo).

Emergency Contacts:

  • 911: All emergencies (police, medical, fire).
  • 104: Tourist police (English-speaking).
  • Your Embassy: Keep details handy (most are in Panama City).

Panama uses 120V/60Hz with Type A/B plugs (same as the U.S.). No adapter needed for U.S. devices.

Tap water is safe to drink in most cities, but stick to bottled water in rural areas. Restaurants serve filtered water (“agua pura”).

Major closures on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • Carnival (Feb/Mar): Epic celebrations (expect closures Tue–Wed before Ash Wednesday).

  • Good Friday & Easter Sunday (Mar/Apr): Processions nationwide.

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 3 Nov: Independence Day (from Colombia).

  • 4 Nov: Flag Day

  • 28 Nov: Independence Day (from Spain).

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day
    Note: Banks/government offices close; tourist sites remain open but crowded.

Stores: 9:00–18:00 (malls open until 21:00).

Supermarkets: 7:00–22:00 (some 24/7 in cities).

Markets: Visit Mercado de Mariscos (Panama City) for fresh seafood or Artisan markets (e.g., Casco Viejo) for handicrafts.

Sancocho: Panama’s national dish—hearty chicken soup with root vegetables and culantro.

Carimañolas: Yuca fritters stuffed with spiced beef or cheese—crispy outside, soft inside.

Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef stewed with peppers and spices—served over rice.

Tamal de Olla: Unlike the Mexican tamale—this is cooked in a pot with cornmeal, pork, olives, and raisins.

Arroz con Guandú y Coco: Rice with pigeon peas and coconut milk—a Caribbean classic.

Ceviche de Corvina: Fresh sea bass marinated in lime, onions, and cilantro—best from fish markets like Mercado de Mariscos.

Hojaldres: Puffy fried bread often paired with savory sausage or eggs.

Torrejitas de Bacalao: Salt cod fritters with crunchy edges and soft center.

Dulce de Leche Cocadas: Sweet coconut clusters made with condensed milk.

Bienmesabe: A creamy dessert made with vanilla, almonds, and coconut—Spanish roots, Panamanian soul.

Alcoholic:

  • Seco Herrerano: Panama’s national spirit—sugarcane-based and usually mixed with fruit juice or coconut water.

  • Ron Abuelo: Award-winning local rum—try the 7 Años or Centuria for a premium taste.

  • Panama Lager: Crisp, light beer—found everywhere and ideal for tropical heat.

  • Balboa Beer: A slightly bolder Panamanian lager with more body.

  • Atlas Golden Light: Low-calorie and ultra-refreshing.

  • Chicha Fuerte: Fermented corn drink with indigenous roots—potent and rare.

  • Guarapo: Fermented sugarcane juice—strong and rustic, often homemade.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Chicheme: Corn-based drink with cinnamon and vanilla—thick, sweet, and best cold.

  • Café de Boquete: Specialty coffee from Panama’s highlands—bright, fruity, and globally acclaimed.

  • Batido de Papaya: Tropical smoothie made with ripe papaya and milk or water.

  • Raspado: Shaved ice with fruit syrup and condensed milk—sold by street vendors.

  • Agua de Pipa: Fresh coconut water straight from the shell—hydrating and refreshing.

Casco Viejo: UNESCO-listed old quarter—colonial churches, pastel buildings, and rooftop bars.

Biomuseo: Designed by Frank Gehry—vivid museum exploring Panama’s natural and cultural history.

Miraflores Locks: Watch mega-ships squeeze through the Panama Canal’s famous locks.

Festival de la Pollera: A dazzling celebration of Panama’s traditional dress, music, and dance.

Guna Yala Culture: Indigenous communities of the San Blas islands—famed for colorful molas.

Portobelo’s Congo Culture: Afro-Panamanian heritage kept alive through drumming, dance, and masks.

El Tamborito: Panama’s national dance—performed with handclaps and folk drums.

Panama Viejo Ruins: Crumbling stone remains of the original Spanish city sacked by pirates.

Las Tablas Carnival: One of the biggest celebrations in Latin America—floats, firecrackers, and fierce rivalries.

Museum of Afro-Antillean Culture: Celebrating the West Indian workers who built the canal.

Causeway Amador: Rent a bike and ride between islands with skyline views.

Nightlife in Casco Viejo: Rooftop bars like Tantalo and salsa joints like CasaCasco.

Paddleboarding on Gatun Lake: Glide beside ships and jungle sounds.

Hiking in Metropolitan Natural Park: City skyline meets tropical forest.

Snorkeling in Coiba: Pristine coral reefs, whale sharks, and rays.

Ziplining in Boquete: Soar over cloud forests and coffee plantations.

Beach lounging in Bocas del Toro: Caribbean vibes, hammock naps, and turquoise water.

Surfing in Santa Catalina: Panama’s top surf town with consistent Pacific swells.

Birdwatching in Darién: Over 1,000 bird species—toucans, eagles, and hummingbirds.

Hot Springs in Caldera: Natural pools to soak after mountain adventures.

Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar: Try their rum flights or passionfruit mojito.

Tantalo Rooftop Bar: Iconic Casco Viejo rooftop with skyline views and DJs.

La Rana Dorada: Local craft brewery—sample IPAs and stouts in a pub setting.

CasaCasco: Multi-floor club, cocktail bar, and gourmet dining all in one.

Relic Bar: Set in a stone cellar—eclectic crowd and live music.

El Apartamento: Cozy, speakeasy-style bar with mixology magic.

Selina Playa Venao: Beach party central—bonfires, DJs, and backpacker vibes.

The Wallace: British-style pub in Panama City with whiskies and craft beers.

Chupitos 507: Shot bar with wild flavors and late-night energy.

Zaza Lounge: Elegant cocktails, live jazz, and a stylish crowd in the heart of the city.