Panama
When you think of Panama, the Panama Canal is probably the first thing that comes to mind. A visit to this iconic feat of engineering is a must during a city trip to Panama City, alongside many other beautiful sights. What truly surprised us, however, was the lush jungle lying close to the bustling heart of the capital. During our round-the-world trip, we spent a week in Panama City as a stopover, and on this page we share all our travel information for both the city and the rest of the country.
Travel Information Panama
A Trip to Panama City
After our trip to Mexico, we wanted to fly to Costa Rica. Therefore it was the best and cheapest way to make a stopover in Panama. Copa Airlines has the opportunity for this kind of stopovers. You can chose the exact days you want to spend in Panama. We opted for a full week, so we could plan the rest of our round-the-world-trip.
3x the Best Daytrip from Panama-City!
Getting around Panama City is fairly easy, with two main options: the metro or Uber. From the airport, we took the metro to our hotel, Marinn Place, in the Financial District. Using our Revolut card to check in, the two of us paid less than one euro in total for the ride. The metro system in Panama City is very straightforward, with only two lines. And if you’re unsure, there’s always someone at the entrance ready to point you in the right direction.
Visa and Entry Requirements
We didn’t need a visa for Panama before leaving home. Upon arrival, we didn’t even have to answer any questions. Our passports were quickly stamped, and that was it. Be sure to check the entry requirements that apply to you before traveling to Panama.
Travel Budget and Currency
We visited Panama during the rainy season, which also happens to be the quietest time of year. For our hotel with a pool and breakfast included, we paid less than €40 per night. Grocery shopping turned out to be a bit more expensive than in the Netherlands. Eating out we didn’t really try. Instead, we often made simple sandwiches in our room or grabbed something from Subway. All in all, we managed a daily budget of around €100 for two people. In Panama, you can pay with either US dollars or the Panamanian balboa. Since the balboa is pegged to the dollar, switching between the two is very easy.
Exchange Rate Panamenian Balboa (PAB) | Exchange Rate
Climate in Pamama
Panama has a tropical climate with high humidity. The rainy season lasts from May to December. From our experience, it can still get quite hot in Panama, even during the rainy months. The climate does vary depending on where you travel. For example, along the border with Costa Rica it’s different than in the interior. Wherever you are, though, the tropical climate is always present, and you’ll never feel cold in Panama. Another good thing to know: hurricanes don’t reach Panama. If you’d like to learn more about the country’s climate, check out the information below.
Climate of Panama | Climate Info
When Is High Season?
High season in Panama runs during the drier months, from December to May. Temperatures remain high, but the chance of rain is much lower.
Populair Sight Panama-City
During our stopover, we only explored Panama City, but we managed to fit in three great day trips. For us, a visit to the Panama Canal is an absolute must. At the visitors’ center, you’ll find plenty of information about the canal’s history, along with a glimpse into its future. Another highlight is Metropolitan Park, which we can highly recommend if you want to spot some wildlife!
3x the Best Daytrip from Panama-City!
Safety and Health
At no point did we feel unsafe in Panama City. We can’t speak for other parts of the country yet, but in the city we usually walked around with our handbags and even brought our camera along. To get to the Panama Canal visitors’ center, however, we did take an Uber, as the route passes through a neighborhood that isn’t considered very safe. We also used Uber to visit the older part of Panama City — and along the way you’ll quickly see why this is a safer option than taking the bus.
When it comes to health, make sure to check which vaccinations apply to your trip. Malaria can occur in certain regions of Panama, so wear light, long clothing to protect yourself from mosquitoes and bring a good repellent.
Vaccinations for Panama | GGD Travel Vaccinations
Internet and Connectivity
We bought a local tourist SIM card in Panama. For just $6–8, you can get a card that gives you unlimited internet for a week. On our Google Maps map, you’ll find the store where we purchased ours. Interestingly, we didn’t have to show our passports — something you do need to do with Airalo.
If you want to be connected as soon as you land in Panama City, Airalo is still the best option. Using the discount code MEIKE4854 will get you €3 off your first purchase!
