Panama is a nation situated on the isthmus that links Central and South America. Renowned for its iconic Panama Canal, a vital waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Panama facilitates global maritime trade.
Distinguished by its robust financial sector, burgeoning tourism industry, and rich biodiversity, Panama boasts a dynamic economy.
Panama invites you to discover a tropical paradise with average temperatures ranging from 27°C (81°F) to 32°C (90°F) year-round.
Enjoy two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to April), characterized by radiant blue skies and little rain, ideal for sunbathing on the Caribbean or Pacific beaches.
During the rainy season (May to November), experience nature’s exuberance with tropical downpours that refresh the atmosphere and allow you to appreciate the beauty of the waterfalls and rivers that abound in the country.
If you’re seeking a cooler climate, the highlands of Chiriquí, Bocas del Toro, and Veraguas await with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F), perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or enjoying rural tourism amidst breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Just a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Panama City, you’ll find the Anton Valley, an oasis of freshness surrounded by an extinct volcano, where you can enjoy a spring-like climate all year round.
Panama, located south of the hurricane belt, offers you the peace of mind to enjoy its beaches and outdoor activities without worries.
Don’t wait any longer to discover Panama, a destination that will captivate you with its diverse climate, lush nature, and rich culture.
Panama uses two legal tender currencies: the United States dollar (USD) and the Panamanian balboa (PAB).
The US dollar is the predominant currency and is used in most transactions. The balboa, which has the same value as the dollar, is mainly used for fractional coins.
Panama does not print banknotes, but it does mint its own coins in denominations of 50 cents, 25 cents, 10 cents, 5 cents, and 1 cent.
Banks in Panama are generally open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, some until 6:00 PM. On Saturdays, the usual hours are from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. You will find banks throughout the country, including branches in the interior.
Visa, American Express, and MasterCard credit cards are widely accepted in most commercial establishments, such as hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and stores.
If you want to obtain balboas in cash, you can withdraw money from ATMs (ATMs) located throughout the country or exchange your currency at reliable exchange houses, especially in Panama City and tourist areas.
Spanish is the official language, but most Panamanians are fluent in English.
According to the XII National Census of Population and Housing conducted in Panama in 2023, the country’s total population is 4,064,780 inhabitants.
Of this total, 50.4% are women, and 49.6% are men.
It is worth noting that this census revealed a significant increase in the Afro-descendant population in Panama, reaching 31.7% of the total.
Compared to the previous census conducted in 2010, Panama’s population has grown at an average annual rate of around 1.5%.
Panama has a reliable electricity grid that covers the entire country.
The standard voltage is 110 volts AC, and the plugs are type A and B, compatible with those used in the United States and Japan.
The mains frequency is 60 Hz. It is recommended to bring adapters if your electronic devices use other types of plugs.
Panama’s communications system is one of the best in Latin America and highly sophisticated. It has mobile phone companies such as Claro, +Móvil, and Tigo, which offer wide coverage and convenient prepaid plans for tourists. In addition, there is widespread availability of mobile internet and Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, and public places.
Panama prides itself on having excellent quality drinking water, considered one of the purest in the world. It is safe to drink directly from the tap in most cities and populated areas. However, in some rural or remote areas, it is recommended to consume bottled water as a precaution. For more information, you can use mobile applications that report on water quality at different points in the country.
Most citizens do not require a visa to enter Panama, only a tourist card.
The tourist card can be purchased at the airport or from the airline before boarding the plane.
It is valid for 30 days and can be extended for two more months.
For more information on visa requirements, please visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Panama:
The official language of Panama is Spanish. In tourist areas and places with a higher influx of foreigners, such as Panama City and Bocas del Toro, many people also speak English.
The best time to visit Panama depends on your preferences. If you are looking for dry and sunny weather, the dry season runs from December to April. If you want to enjoy the lushness of the rainforest and don’t mind the rain, the wet season runs from May to November.
To travel to Panama, most citizens need a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity. A visa may also be required, depending on your nationality. We recommend checking with the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your country for more detailed information on visa requirements.
The clothes you pack will depend on the time of year you travel. In general, it is recommended to pack light and comfortable clothing, as well as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you are going to hike or do outdoor activities, you will also need appropriate clothing and footwear.
Panama awaits you with its warm and sunny weather for most of the year. To make the most of your trip, we recommend packing light and comfortable clothing, such as cotton t-shirts, shorts or Bermuda shorts, and loose-fitting dresses or skirts. Don’t forget to include swimsuits, as Panama offers beautiful beaches and pools where you can cool off.
While casual and comfortable attire is appropriate for most activities in Panama, please note that in some places, such as offices or when visiting government offices, more formal attire is required. For these occasions, we recommend wearing long pants and a shirt or blouse with sleeves.
If you plan to visit the Chiriquí highlands, especially during the evening or early morning, we recommend bringing a light sweater or jacket as temperatures can be a bit chilly. We also recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes as you can enjoy beautiful hikes in this mountainous region.
Panama has a well-developed public transportation network, including buses, taxis, and the metro in Panama City. You can also rent a car to explore the country at your own pace.
Panama is a country with a rich culture and history. Panamanians are generally friendly and welcoming. It is important to respect local customs and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites or historical sites.
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