Why Panama?
Panama is the only country in the world where the Atlantic and Pacific are less than two hours apart. With a dollarized economy, world-class modern infrastructure, extraordinary nature and a growing international community, Panama has it all — no currency exchange, no extreme bureaucracy, with direct flights to over 80 cities worldwide.
But Panama goes beyond logistics. A skyline of skyscrapers coexisting with virgin jungle, dolphins swimming 20 minutes from the international airport, prize-winning coffee from Chiriquí, and the Casco Antiguo transporting you to the 17th century without leaving the city.
USD Currency
No currency exchange, no exchange rate risk.
Exceptional air connectivity
Regional hub with flights across the continent.
Extraordinary nature
Minutes from the city.
Stability
Political and economic stability recognized in the region.
World-class gastronomy
Vibrant cultural and culinary scene.
Large expat community
Diverse and welcoming, making integration easy.
Travel Essentials
Currency & Payments
The US dollar (USD) is the official currency. Credit cards widely accepted in urban and tourist areas. Carry cash for markets, taxis and rural areas.
Language
Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, airports, upscale hotels and the expat community. Indigenous languages dominate in areas like Guna Yala.
Electricity
110V / 60Hz. Same outlets as the United States. No adapter needed for North Americans. European travelers will need an adapter.
Visas & Entry
Citizens of over 50 countries enter visa-free, including the US, Canada, EU and UK. Stays of up to 90 days permitted. Passport must have at least 6 months of validity.
Water & Health
Tap water is safe to drink in Panama City and major urban areas. Use bottled water in rural and indigenous areas. No mandatory vaccines required to enter the country.
Local SIM Card
Tigo and +Movil are the main carriers. SIMs available from $10 at the airport with data included. Excellent coverage in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
Panama has two distinct seasons: dry season (December to April) and rainy season (May to November). The ideal time varies by region.
Pacific Coast
Dec – Apr (dry season, perfect beaches)
Bocas del Toro (Caribbean South)
Sep – Oct and Feb – Mar (less rain)
Caribbean North (Portobelo)
Feb – Apr (driest period)
Mountains (Boquete, Volcán)
Year-round (consistently cool)
Panama City
Year-round (afternoon showers in rainy season)
Sea turtle watching
Jun – Nov (Pacific Coast)
Surf (Venao, Santa Catalina)
Apr – Oct (best waves)
Birdwatching
Dec – Apr (bird migration)
Transportation
Uber
The safest and most comfortable way to move around the city. Available in PTY and metropolitan areas.
Panama Metro
Lines 1 and 2 cover the city's main areas. Affordable and safe.
Intercity buses
Depart from Albrook Terminal. Affordable and frequent to Chiriquí, Veraguas, Coclé.
Domestic flights
Air Panama connects PTY with Bocas del Toro, David, Contadora and Guna Yala.
Car rental
Available from $30/day. Recommended for exploring the Pacific and the mountains.
Boats & water taxis
Essential for Bocas del Toro, San Blas and the Pearl Islands.
Safety Tips
Panama is one of Central America's safest countries for tourism. With basic precautions, the experience is excellent in the vast majority of tourist destinations.
Safe zones in PTY: Casco Antiguo, San Francisco, Marbella, Costa del Este, Punta Pacífica, Albrook.
Do not display valuables in the street. Use Uber instead of street taxis at night.
Tap water is safe in the city. Use bottled water in rural and indigenous areas.
Emergencies: dial 911. Works throughout the country. High-quality private hospitals in PTY.
SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential. Tropical sun is intense even on cloudy days.
Airbnb & In-Home Services
Elevate your stay. Book any service straight to your door.
A high-value category that almost no one in Panama covers well online. Book any experience straight to your Airbnb, villa, hotel or even your own house.
Private Chef
Panamanian, fusion or Afro-Caribbean cuisine at home. From $80/person (min. 4).
Coffee or Cacao Tasting
Certified barista comes to your place. Geisha, Catuai, Caturra — from bean to cup.
Panamanian Cooking Class
Learn to prepare ceviche, sancocho and patacones with local ingredients.
Therapeutic Massage
Certified therapist at your door. Swedish, sports, hot stone or four-hands for couples.
Private Yoga Session
Certified instructor at your terrace or garden. All levels. Sunrise yoga with ocean or volcano view.
Welcome Basket
Geisha coffee, mola, artisan chocolate, tropical fruits. The perfect Panama welcome.
Birthday & Anniversary Arrangements
Flower arrangements, custom cakes, decorated tables and surprise coordination. We handle every detail.
Digital Nomad Setup
Best WiFi spots, coworking spaces, local SIM card — premium guide.
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Neighborhoods, hidden spots, restaurants, safety by area and seasonal tips — all in one PDF. Sent directly to your inbox.
Request Free GuideBook a Consultation Call.
$30
One-time fee · 45-minute call
Itinerary review, neighborhood recommendations, safety questions, where to eat — we answer everything specific to your trip.