This small, tropical, Central American republic is the kind of melting pot of tradition, culture, and diversity that you’d expect from a country linking two continents and two oceans. Panama’s long coastlines offer exquisite marine playgrounds and an array of natural delights, with numerous historical treasures in between. Visitors can discover world-class surfing at Santa Catalina, take a cruise to the Pearl Islands dotting the Pacific Ocean, relax along stretches of sandy white beaches, explore the ruins of Spanish forts on the Caribbean coast, or paddle deep into indigenous territories in a traditional dugout canoe. Visits to the Volcan Baru National Park Coiba and National Marine Park are also itinerary musts.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Panamanian Balboa
Symbol: B/.
ISO code: PAB
Subunit: Centésimo
Banknotes: B/.1, B/.5, B/.10, B/.20, B/.50, B/.100
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, B/.1
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Copa Airlines
International Airports: Tocumen International Airport
Domestic Airports: Enrique Malek International Airport (David), Albrook "Marcos A. Gelabert" International Airport (Panama City)
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Limited
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Limited
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Panamanian cuisine is a fusion of African, Spanish, and Indigenous influences. Highlights include dishes like sancocho (chicken stew), ceviche (marinated seafood), and arroz con pollo (rice with chicken). Notable local drinks include chicha de maíz (corn drink) and Ron Abuelo (rum).
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 2000 - 4000 mm
Average temperature: 27°C
Summer:
Average highs: 32°C
Average lows: 24°C
Winter:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 23°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Panama is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is sunny and pleasant.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Not Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type A, Type B
Voltage (V): 120V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
