Panama Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Panama Canal – An engineering marvel and major global shipping route.
- Casco Viejo – Panama City’s historic district filled with colonial charm.
- Bocas del Toro – Colorful Caribbean islands known for beaches and nightlife.
- San Blas Islands – Remote archipelago managed by the Guna people.
- Boquete – A cool mountain town popular for hiking and coffee tours.
Language & Culture
Spanish is the official language. Panama is a cultural crossroads, influenced by Afro-Caribbean, Indigenous, and Spanish heritage. Traditional music includes tamborito and reggaetón. Locals are friendly and proud of their diverse identity.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Buses and taxis are common. Panama City has a metro. Domestic flights connect islands.
- Currency: Balboa (PAB) and US Dollar (USD; used interchangeably).
- Food: Expect seafood, rice and beans, ceviche, and sancocho (traditional stew).
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| December – April | Dry and sunny | Best time for outdoor activities |
| May – November | Rainy and humid | Lush landscapes and fewer tourists |
Fly into Tocumen International Airport (PTY) near Panama City.
Estimated Budget (Per Day/Traveler)
| Category | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30 – $150 | Hostels to boutique hotels |
| Meals | $10 – $30 | Local markets to mid-range restaurants |
| Transport | $5 – $20 | Local buses and taxis |
| Activities | $20 – $100 | Tours, entrance fees, boat trips |
Packing List Suggestions
- Beachwear and hiking shoes
- Light jacket for evenings
- Travel adapter (Europlug)
- Reusable water bottle and sunscreen
- Travel insurance documents
20 Basic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hola | Hello |
| ¿Cómo estás? | How are you? |
| Bien, gracias | Fine, thank you |
| ¿Dónde está el baño? | Where is the bathroom? |
| Por favor | Please |
| Gracias | Thank you |
| De nada | You’re welcome |
| Perdón | Excuse me / Sorry |
| No entiendo | I don’t understand |
| ¿Cuánto cuesta? | How much is it? |
| La cuenta, por favor | The check, please |
| Habla inglés? | Do you speak English? |
| Me gusta | I like it |
| Estoy perdido/a | I’m lost |
| ¿Qué hora es? | What time is it? |
| Salud | Bless you / Cheers |
| Buenos días | Good morning |
| Buenas tardes | Good afternoon |
| Buenas noches | Good evening / night |
| Adiós | Goodbye |
Health & Safety
- Tap water is generally safe in Panama City, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.
- Use mosquito repellent in tropical areas to prevent dengue and Zika.
- Basic health care is accessible; private clinics offer better quality services.
- Dial 911 in case of emergencies.
Festivals & Holidays
- Carnival – Held in February or March with parades, dancing, and colorful costumes.
- Semana Santa – Holy Week leading up to Easter, observed with processions and local events.
- Independence Days – November celebrations marking independence from Spain and Colombia.
Sustainable Tourism
- Support Indigenous Guna and Emberá communities through respectful tourism.
- Stay in eco-lodges and reduce plastic usage on islands and beaches.
- Respect wildlife in national parks and marine areas.
- Use local tour guides and shop at artisan markets.
