Panama

The Land of Canals
and Coasts

Flag of Panama

Panama, a vibrant country connecting Central and South America, is famous for the Panama Canal, diverse wildlife, and cosmopolitan capital, Panama City. The country's landscapes range from pristine beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts to lush rainforests and highland cloud forests.

Panama’s culture is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and immigrant influences, celebrated in colorful festivals and traditional music like tamborito. The cuisine is a fusion of tropical flavors, with popular dishes like sancocho (chicken stew) and fresh seafood. Panama offers a unique mix of modern infrastructure, cultural diversity, and natural wonders.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-Central American citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Panama.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Panama (6 months recommended for some nationalities—check entry rules).

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and others can enter Panama with a valid passport and stay for up to 180 days without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations like China, India, or Cuba must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Panama.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry visas from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, or Schengen states (previously used in the issuing country) can enter Panama without an additional visa, provided the visa is valid for at least 6 months at entry.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from these countries may also enter without a visa—check with Panamanian authorities.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Panama using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all foreign nationals.

Visa Types

  • Tourist Entry: Allows stays up to 180 days for visa-exempt countries; no separate visa application needed.
  • Residence Visa: For stays longer than 180 days (e.g., work, study); valid for one year, renewable, and allows application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 180 days per entry.
  • Purpose of visit: Work, study, or long-term stays require prior visa approval.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination proof may be requested).
Toll

Driving in Panama

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, major toll roads in Panama include:

  • Corredor Norte: Connecting Panama City to northern suburbs and beyond.
  • Corredor Sur: Linking Panama City to Tocumen International Airport and eastern areas.
  • Pan-American Highway (sections): Limited toll segments near urban zones.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance. For current rates, visit the official Panama Toll Authority website: https://www.ezdrivepanama.com/.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Panamanian Balboa (PAB) or US Dollar (USD) accepted at toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted at most toll booths.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: Prepaid RFID stickers available—check https://www.ezdrivepanama.com/ for updates.

Driving in Panama

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on rural roads, especially during the rainy season (May-November).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Panama does not use a vignette system; tolls are per-use.
  • Road Safety: Watch for heavy traffic in Panama City and flooding in rural areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in urban areas but spotty in rural zones—keep an updated physical map.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 911 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Panama Currency

The official currency of Panama is the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), pegged 1:1 with the US Dollar (USD), which is also legal tender.

Key Information

  • Banknotes: USD: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 (Balboa notes are rare).
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 centavos; 1 Balboa (interchangeable with USD coins).
  • Symbol: B/. (Balboa) or $ (USD).

Currency Exchange

  • USD is widely used—no exchange needed for US visitors.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for USD or Balboa withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash (USD) is preferred, especially in rural areas and small vendors.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash (USD) for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards (though rare due to USD usage).
  • For reference exchange rates (non-USD currencies), visit the National Bank of Panama: https://www.banconal.com.pa/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Panama

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in Panama, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication can result in fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas (e.g., beaches).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing Panama Canal disputes or indigenous land issues unless invited.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract attention in rural areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, the Panama Canal, or government buildings. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 3L total | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access under national law; private properties cannot block shoreline entirely.

Key Resources

Panama Travel Safety

Panama is generally safe for travelers, with a growing tourism industry, but awareness of crime, health, and road safety is key. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Panama.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) occurs in tourist areas like Panama City or Colón. Violent crime against tourists is rare but possible—avoid high-risk zones (e.g., parts of Colón).
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe in tourist areas; locals are welcoming. Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poor rural road conditions.
    • Avoid night driving in rural or jungle areas.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water outside major cities; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19.
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country; recommended for Darién region.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use repellent for dengue, Zika, and malaria (especially in rural or jungle areas).
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk; highest areas (e.g., Volcán Barú) are below 3,500 meters.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Hospital Punta Pacífica in Panama City offer high standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities—carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 911 (police, ambulance, fire).
  • Police: 104 | Ambulance: 911 | Fire: 103.
  • Tourist Police: +507 511-9260 (Panama City).

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/jungle areas—check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for trails (e.g., Volcán Barú or Darién).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid canal or political discussions.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor via World Air Quality Index in Panama City.

Key Links

Flying to Panama

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