Panama Travel Tips: Local Advice, Safety Info, and Practical Things to Know
Planning your trip to Panama? Whether it’s your first visit or a return adventure, a few local insights can help you travel smarter and more confidently.
From currency and transportation to safety and cultural etiquette, here are the essential things every traveler should know before visiting Panama — with tips for city life, rural regions, and island escapes.
Money & Currency
Currency: The U.S. Dollar is used nationwide (also called the Balboa). No need to exchange if you’re coming from the U.S.
Cash is king outside of major cities. Always carry small bills ($1, $5, $10).
ATMs are available in cities and large towns, but not on islands like San Blas or in remote areas.
Credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants in urban areas, but bring cash for tours, taxis, and small shops.
Language & Communication
Spanish is the official language. Basic English is spoken in tourist areas, especially Panama City, Bocas del Toro, and Boquete.
Learn a few key phrases in Spanish — it goes a long way with locals.
SIM cards from telecommunication providers are easy to buy at airports or supermarkets and cost around $5–$10 with data.
Free Wi-Fi is common in cafes, hotels, and hostels in cities and tourist towns.
Safety & Health
Panama is generally safe, especially in tourist destinations. Exercise normal precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas (especially in Panama City outskirts).
Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country, including Panama City and Boquete. Use bottled or filtered water in more remote areas.
Not sure what to bring for the jungle, city, or islands? Use our Panama Packing List to get organized.
Transportation Tips
Public buses and Uber are affordable in Panama City.
Agree on the fare before riding a taxi — meters are rarely used.
Long-distance buses are comfortable and reliable but may require advance booking in high season.
San Blas requires a 4x4 vehicle and a passport for entry — don’t forget it. Make sure your passport is valid and you’ve checked visa rules. See our full Entry Requirements for Panama guide.
Learn more about domestic flights, ferries, and shuttle services in our Getting Around Panama guide.
Cultural Etiquette
Panamanians are friendly and reserved — a polite greeting goes a long way.
Dress modestly in rural towns, churches, and when visiting Indigenous communities like the Embera Village.
Tipping: 10% is standard in restaurants, and rounding up is appreciated for drivers and guides.
Sunday is a quiet, family-focused day — some businesses may be closed.
Local Insight: What Surprises Visitors Most
Panama has multiple microclimates — it can be hot and humid on the coast, but cool and misty in Boquete and the highlands.
It's a small country with long travel times — the terrain means road trips can take longer than expected.
English is more common than in many Latin American countries, but still not guaranteed — a few Spanish words help!
Helpful Apps for Travelers
- Google Translate – for Spanish communication
- Waze – better than Google Maps for driving in Panama
- Uber / InDrive – rideshares in the city