Private Island Adventure: Islas Secas

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.

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 

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 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% 

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. 

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 

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.