🌎 Panama Travel Guide
Complete travel information for Panama, a country where modern cities meet tropical rainforests and two oceans. All links open in a new window.
Current Travel Advisory: Exercise a high degree of caution in Panama overall due to the threat of crime . The U.S. Department of State advises Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution . Some areas have higher risk levels (Level 4: Do Not Travel) .
🛂 Entry Requirements & Documents
Passport & Visa
- Passport: A valid passport is required. It must be valid for at least three months from the date of entry . Some sources recommend six months .
- Visa: Citizens of the U.S., Canada, EU, Australia, and many other countries do not require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days .
- Entry Requirements: Proof of onward or return ticket and sufficient funds (minimum $500 USD) may be required .
- Immigration Form: An online immigration and customs declaration form must be completed when entering Panama . A QR code is generated and presented to customs if declaring items over $10,000 USD .
- Visa Extension: Stays exceeding 90 days require an extension application to Panamanian immigration authorities.
Additional Documents & Information
- International Driver's License: Recommended if you plan to drive.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended. Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation .
- Currency Declaration: Amounts exceeding $10,000 USD must be declared upon entry or exit .
- Digital Copies: Store digital copies of your passport and other important documents offline.
- Pet Travel: Travelers with pets must provide vaccination records and an Animal Health Export Certificate with apostille .
💉 Health, Vaccinations & Insurance
Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever: No longer mandatory for entry, but recommended if visiting areas with greater natural exposure such as Darien, Guna Yala, or Panama Este . Travelers coming from countries with yellow fever transmission should carry proof of vaccination .
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure routine vaccinations (MMR, TDaP, Polio) are up to date .
- Recommended: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended for most travelers .
- Mosquito-Borne Illnesses: Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika are present. Practice strict mosquito bite avoidance (DEET repellent, long sleeves/pants) .
- Malaria: Only required for certain regions; consult a travel clinic .
- Consult a Doctor: Seek professional medical advice at least 4–6 weeks before travel.
Health Risks & Precautions
- Tap Water: Tap water is generally safe in Panama City, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas .
- Food Hygiene: Be cautious with street food. Wash hands frequently.
- Sun Protection: Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.
- Medical Care: Private healthcare in Panama City is modern and well-equipped, but expensive for foreigners. Public hospitals may have longer wait times and language barriers .
Travel Health Insurance
- Essential: Comprehensive travel health insurance covering emergency medical evacuation is strongly recommended .
🛡️ Safety & Travel Advisories
⚠️ Exercise a High Degree of Caution (Level 2)
Due to the threat of crime, including armed robbery and muggings . Some areas have Level 4: Do Not Travel advisories .
Regional Advisories
- Level 4: Do Not Travel
- Darién Region: South of Yaviza, including Darién National Park. Guerrilla groups, cartels, and drug traffickers operate here. Violent crime, kidnapping, and murder are common .
- Mosquito Gulf: Extremely remote and inaccessible area along the Caribbean coast. Drug trafficking and illicit activities occur .
- High-Crime Areas in Panama City: Calidonia, San Miguelito, Rio Abajo, El Chorrillo, Veracruz Beach, Panama Viejo, Casco Viejo, 24 de diciembre, Santa Ana, Juan Diaz .
- Other High-Risk Areas: Colon has frequent gang activity; exercise caution .
Crime & Precautions
- Violent Crime: Armed robbery, muggings, and sexual assault occur .
- Petty Crime: Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common in tourist areas, airports, bus terminals, and public transport .
- Precautions:
- Don't flash valuables or discuss travel plans in public .
- Avoid walking alone after dark .
- Use ATMs only in banks or shopping centres .
- Use licensed, registered taxis (check number matches plate) or ride-hailing apps .
- Avoid public transportation in high-crime areas .
- Secure your accommodation and keep valuables in a safe place .
- If a victim of crime, get medical help immediately .
- Darien Gap: Do not travel beyond Yaviza . The area includes Darien National Park and privately owned nature reserves and tourist resorts .
- Drug Penalties: Severe penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs .
Other Risks & Precautions
- Demonstrations: Protests can occur and may turn violent, disrupting transport and road access. Avoid large crowds and monitor local media .
- Hurricane Season: From June to November, storms can cause flooding and landslides. Know your hotel's evacuation plan .
- Earthquakes: Panama experiences earthquakes. Know the tsunami warning signs and move to high ground .
- Boating Safety: Be wary of vessels transporting narcotics. Do not pick up packages; report to authorities .
🚨 Emergency & Important Numbers
- Police, Ambulance, Fire: 911
- U.S. Embassy Panama City: +(507) 317-5000
🏛️ Embassies & Consulates in Panama
For consular assistance, passport emergencies, or other help, contact the embassy or consulate of your home country. Panama City hosts 51 embassies .
Select Diplomatic Missions in Panama City
Address: Building 783, Avenida Demetrio Basilio Lakas, Clayton, Panama City, Panama
Telephone: +(507) 317-5000
Website: pa.usembassy.gov
Address: Punta Pacífica, Edificio Oceanía, Torre 2000 Piso 17 Oficina 17C
Telephone: +(507) 215-3346
Email:
Address: Paitilla. Vía Italia. PH Posada del Rey, Planta Baja
Telephone: +(507) 392-6363
Search Link for All Diplomatic Missions
For a complete list of foreign embassies and consulates in Panama, visit:
Note: Addresses and contact details can change. Always confirm via official government sources before your visit.
📜 Background on Country & Society
- Official Name: Republic of Panama
- Capital: Panama City
- Area: 75,417 sq km
- Population: Approx. 4.5 million
- Government: Presidential republic
- Official Language: Spanish
- Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD)
- Economy: Services (including the Panama Canal), logistics, banking, tourism, and agriculture.
- History: Panama was inhabited by indigenous peoples before Spanish colonization in the 16th century. It became independent from Colombia in 1903. The Panama Canal was completed in 1914 and returned to Panama in 1999.
- Culture: A vibrant mix of indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and North American influences. Panama City is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy .
- Official Information: U.S. Department of State – Panama
🌤️ Climate, Weather & Clothing
- Climate: Tropical, with a dry and wet season.
- Dry Season (Best Time to Visit): December to April – sunny weather and ideal beach conditions .
- Wet Season: May to November – afternoon showers, lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices .
- Temperature: Warm year-round (average 27°C/80°F), cooler in the highlands.
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing year-round. A light jacket for cooler evenings and high-altitude areas. Rain gear is recommended during the wet season. Sunscreen and insect repellent are essential .
🗣️ Language & Communication
- Official Language: Spanish .
- English: Widely spoken in Panama City and tourist hubs .
- Useful Phrases:
- Hello: Hola
- Please: Por favor
- Thank you: Gracias
- Excuse me: Disculpe
- Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?
- Mentality: Friendly and laid-back. Politeness and respect are valued .
- Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic, with a growing Protestant population.
- Internet: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes. Local prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs are available from providers like Claro and Movistar .
⚡ Voltage & Plug Types
- Voltage: 110/120 V (North American standard).
- Frequency: 60 Hz.
- Plug Types: Type A and B (same as the U.S.).
- Adapter Needed: Yes, for travelers from Europe (DE/AT/CH).
- Voltage Converter: Yes, for devices that only support 220-240 V.
💰 Money & Finances
- Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD) .
- Payment Methods: Cash is widely used. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores.
- ATMs: Widely available in cities and tourist areas. Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers during daylight hours .
- Price Level: Moderate to expensive, especially in Panama City and tourist areas.
- Tipping: 10% is standard in restaurants when a service charge is not included. 10-15% is customary .
🚗 Transport & Arrival
- Airports: Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City is the main gateway. Albrook "Marcos A. Gelabert" International Airport (PAC) serves domestic flights.
- Driving: Drive on the right. A valid driver's license is required. Road conditions vary .
- Taxis & Ride-hailing: Uber and Cabify are widely used in Panama City. Use only licensed, registered taxis and check that the number on the side matches the license plate .
- Public Transport: The Panama Metro has two lines. MiBus buses are available. Use caution when taking taxis .
- Domestic Flights: Connect major cities and remote destinations.
- Panama Canal Transit: Partial or full transits of the Panama Canal are available.
🏨 Accommodation & Practical Information
- Hotel Types: Wide range from luxury resorts to boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and budget hostels.
- Best Areas: Panama City (Casco Viejo, Punta Pacífica, El Cangrejo), Boquete (mountain retreat), Bocas del Toro (beaches), and the Pearl Islands.
- Vacation Rentals: Available through platforms like Airbnb.
- Opening Hours: Shops generally open Mon-Sat 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Many close on Sunday.
- Shopping: Local markets, artisan towns, and malls offer a wide range of products.
- Local Regulations: Respect environmental protections in national parks and coastal areas . Photography restrictions may apply near government buildings.
🍽️ Food, Drink & Cuisine
- Typical Dishes: Sancocho (chicken soup), arroz con pollo, ceviche, patacones (fried plantains), and empanadas.
- Street Food: Widely available and generally safe if busy and cooked fresh.
- Regional Specialties: Seafood on the coasts, fresh fruit, and coffee from the highlands. Panama City is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy .
- Drinks: Rum (Ron Abuelo), Seco Herrerano (a local spirit), beer (Panama, Balboa), and fresh fruit juices.
- Water: Tap water is generally safe in Panama City, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas .
🕒 Time Zone & Public Holidays
- Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC-5). No daylight saving time.
- Time Difference: 6 hours behind Central European Time (CET) / 5 hours behind during European summer time.
- Major National Holidays:
- Independence Day (November 3)
- Flag Day (November 4)
- Colón Day (November 5)
- Good Friday and Easter Sunday
- Labor Day (May 1)
- Christmas (December 25)
- Festivals: Carnival is the biggest celebration before Lent. The Panama Jazz Festival (January) and the International Film Festival (April) are major cultural events.
- Public Holidays: Many businesses close on national holidays. Check ahead.
🏝️ Attractions & Highlights
Panama offers a rich blend of modern cities, colonial history, and stunning natural beauty. The country has been named Best Tourist Destination in Latin America .
🏛️ Culture & History
Panama Canal
One of the world's most important engineering marvels. Visit the Miraflores Visitor Center to watch ships transit the locks. Tickets are $17.22 for non-Panamanian adults . Also visit the Agua Clara Visitor Center on the Atlantic side .
Casco Viejo (Casco Antiguo)
Panama City's UNESCO World Heritage-listed colonial quarter. Walk the cobblestone streets, explore historic mansions, and enjoy the sunset from a rooftop bar. Home to museums, boutique hotels, and gourmet restaurants .
Panama Viejo
The ruins of the first Spanish colonial settlement on the Pacific coast, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tour the Plaza Mayor Museum to learn about its history .
Biomuseo
A museum designed by Frank Gehry, located on the Amador Causeway. It tells the story of how the formation of the Isthmus of Panama changed global biodiversity .
Portobelo
A former Spanish colonial trading hub with the ruins of walled fortifications on the Caribbean coast. The San Felipe Castle and defenses are impressive sights .
🌿 Nature & Adventure
Boquete and Chiriquí Province
Located in the western highlands, this region is known for its cloud forests, coffee farms (including Geisha coffee), and hiking trails. Lonely Planet highlighted Chiriquí as one of the world's best regions in 2025 .
Bocas del Toro
A Caribbean archipelago with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. Great for snorkeling, surfing, and boat tours.
San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)
An indigenous territory with over 300 islands, known for crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and the Guna culture. Visitors must respect local rules and pay fees .
Rainforest & Wildlife
Panama City is the only capital in the world with a tropical rainforest. Birdwatching, hiking, and river rafting are popular activities .
🎉 Nightlife & Events
- Nightlife: Ranges from lively rooftop bars and clubs in Casco Viejo to upscale lounges and casinos in the modern city.
- Local Scene: Music and dance are central. Salsa, reggaeton, and local folk music can be found in many venues.
- Major Events:
- Carnival (February/March): The biggest celebration, with parades, music, and street parties.
- Panama Jazz Festival (January): A major music event.
- International Film Festival (April): A cultural highlight.
- Event Calendars: Check local tourism websites for up-to-date events.
🔗 Media & Further Links
Official & Government Sites
YouTube & Video
Maps & Images
Disclaimer: This information was compiled from official and reputable sources but is not exhaustive. Travel regulations, visa requirements, and safety conditions can change. Given the current "Exercise a High Degree of Caution" advisory, travelers are advised to take precautions. Please check with official authorities, the respective embassy, or the official tourism website before making any travel plans.
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