Panama City Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning & Logistics
What is the best time to visit? The dry season (mid-December to April) is ideal for clear skies, though it is the most expensive time.
Do I need a visa? Most Western tourists (US, Canada, EU) can enter for 90–180 days with just a passport.
What is the currency? The US Dollar is the legal tender. There is a “Balboa” coin, but it is equal to $1.
Is Panama City expensive? It is more expensive than neighboring countries like Nicaragua but cheaper than the US or Western Europe.
Should I bring cash? Yes. While cards are accepted in malls and hotels, small shops, “fondas,” and San Blas tours require cash.
Are there ATMs? Plenty in the city, but they often have a $5.25 fee per withdrawal.
Is the tap water safe? Yes, the water in Panama City is treated and safe to drink.
What is the electricity? 110V (the same as the US and Canada).
How much should I tip? 10% is standard in restaurants. Check the bill for “propina” to see if it’s already included.
Do I need a Spanish speaker? In high-end hotels and Casco Viejo, English is common. In local markets and taxis, basic Spanish is essential.
What is the time zone? Eastern Standard Time (EST) all year; Panama does not observe Daylight Savings.
Is it safe? Generally yes, but avoid walking through El Chorrillo or San Miguelito.
Are there many mosquitoes? In the city, not many, but if you head to the rainforest (Gamboa) or islands, bring repellent.
What should I pack for the weather? Light, breathable clothing. It is humid and hot year-round (around 30°C/86°F).
Is there a dress code? Panamanians dress neatly. Avoid wearing flip-flops and tank tops in upscale malls or restaurants.
How long should I stay? 3–4 days for the city, or 7–10 days if adding San Blas or Boquete.
Which airport should I fly into? Tocumen International (PTY) is the main hub.
Can I use my phone? Buy a local SIM (e.g., Tigo or +Movil) at the airport or use an eSIM like Airalo.
What is the “Affidavit” form? You must fill out a digital customs declaration (Declaración de Viajero) before arrival.
Is there a tourist tax? No specific tax, but departure fees are usually included in your ticket.
Getting Around
How do I get from PTY to the city? Uber is the most reliable (approx. $15–$25).
Are there taxis? Yes, yellow taxis are everywhere. Negotiate the price before getting in.
Is there Uber? Yes, and it is highly recommended over taxis for tourists to avoid overcharging.
Does the Metro work well? Yes! It’s clean, cheap ($0.35), and reaches many major areas.
How do I pay for the Metro? You must buy a rechargeable “Rápido” card at any station for $2.
Can I walk between neighborhoods? Only in specific areas like the Cinta Costera or Casco Viejo. The city is not very pedestrian-friendly otherwise.
Is traffic bad? Yes, it is legendary. Avoid moving during rush hours (7 AM–9 AM and 4 PM–7 PM).
Can I rent a car? Yes, but driving in the city is chaotic. It’s better for trips to the “Interior.”
What are “Diablos Rojos”? Colorful, retired US school buses. They are iconic but mostly replaced by modern MetroBuses.
Is there a train to the Atlantic? The Panama Canal Railway runs to Colon. It’s scenic but mainly for commuters and luxury enthusiasts.
Accommodations
Where is the best place to stay? Casco Viejo for history and nightlife; Marbella or Obarrio for modern hotels and malls.
Is Casco Viejo noisy? Yes, especially on weekends due to rooftop bars. Check reviews for “soundproofing.”
Are Airbnb rentals good? Yes, they are popular in high-rises, but check if the building allows short-term stays.
Should I stay near the airport? Only if you have a very early flight; it’s far from the main attractions.
Are there hostels? Yes, El Cangrejo has several popular social hostels (e.g., Selina).
Do hotels have pools? Most mid-to-high-range hotels have rooftop pools to escape the heat.
Is it better to stay in the city or by the beach? Stay in the city; the beaches near the city aren’t for swimming.
What is “Via Argentina”? A trendy, walkable street in El Cangrejo with great hotels and cafes.
Is the Westin Playa Bonita a good choice? It’s a resort just outside the city. Great for families, but you’ll need a taxi for everything else.
Are there “all-inclusive” resorts? Most are located 1.5–2 hours away in the Playa Blanca area.
Sightseeing & Activities
How do I see the Canal? Visit the Miraflores Visitor Center. Check the schedule to ensure a ship is actually passing.
What is the best time for the Canal? Usually early morning (8 AM–10 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM).
Is the IMAX at the Canal worth it? Yes, it’s narrated by Morgan Freeman and gives a great history of the project.
What is Casco Viejo? The “Old Quarter”—a UNESCO site with colonial architecture, ruins, and churches.
What is the Biomuseo? A colorful museum designed by Frank Gehry focusing on Panama’s biodiversity.
Can I hike in the city? Yes, Ancon Hill offers a great view of the skyline and the Canal.
What is the Metropolitan Natural Park? A tropical forest within the city limits where you can see sloths and toucans.
What is the Amador Causeway? A 6km road connecting islands. Great for biking, walking, and dining.
Can I visit “Old Panama”? Yes, Panamá Viejo is the archaeological site of the original city destroyed by Henry Morgan.
How do I get to San Blas? You need a 4×4 transport (approx. 2.5 hours) and then a boat. Usually booked as a day tour.
Is a day trip to San Blas worth it? It’s a very long day (leaves at 5 AM). Overnight stays are highly recommended.
What is Taboga Island? The “Island of Flowers,” a 30-minute ferry ride from the city for a quick beach fix.
What is Monkey Island? A boat tour on Gatun Lake where you can see capuchin and howler monkeys.
Can I visit an Embera village? Yes, there are cultural tours to indigenous villages along the Chagres River.
Where are the best views? Panaviera (top of Ocean Sun Casino) or the rooftop bars in Casco Viejo.
Are the malls worth visiting? Yes, Albrook is massive and budget-friendly; Multiplaza is high-end luxury.
Is the “Hop-On Hop-Off” bus good? It’s okay for a quick overview, but traffic often makes the schedule unreliable.
What is the Cinta Costera? A waterfront parkway. Great for people-watching and local snacks.
Can I see sloths in the city? Yes, at the Gamboa Sloth Sanctuary or occasionally in the Metropolitan Park.
Is Gamboa worth a visit? Yes, it’s only 45 minutes away and offers a deep rainforest experience.
Food & Drink
What is the must-try dish? Sancocho (a hearty chicken soup) and Corvina (sea bass).
Where is the best seafood? The Mercado de Mariscos (Fish Market). Eat at the outdoor stalls for cheap ceviche.
What is “Hojaldre”? A delicious fried dough served for breakfast.
Is Geisha coffee worth the price? It is the most expensive coffee in the world. A cup can cost $20–$100.
What is the local beer? Panama, Balboa, and Atlas are the big three.
Are there craft breweries? Yes, La Rana Dorada is a local favorite.
What is “Patacones”? Fried green plantains—the standard side dish for almost everything.
Can I drink the coffee everywhere? Yes, even basic cafes serve high-quality Panamanian beans.
What is “Chicha”? A fruit juice or corn-based drink. Try “Chicha con Arroz y Piña.”
Are there high-end restaurants? Yes, Panama City is a regional foodie hub. Try “Maito” or “Fonda Lo Que Hay.”
What is the best local snack? Carimañolas (yuca fritters stuffed with meat).
Is there vegetarian food? Yes, though traditional food is meat-heavy. Modern areas have plenty of plant-based options.
What is the legal drinking age? 18.
Can I drink on the street? Generally no, though it’s relaxed in some festive areas.
What time do bars close? Usually 2 AM or 3 AM, but Casco Viejo stays lively late.
Shopping & Safety
Where can I buy souvenirs? The YMCA in Balboa or the artisan markets in Casco Viejo.
What should I buy? A Panama Hat (which actually originated in Ecuador, but the ones here are iconic) and Mola textiles.
Are there scams to watch for? Taxis not using meters and “guides” in Casco Viejo offering unsolicited help.
Is it safe to use ATMs at night? Use ATMs inside malls or hotels for better security.
Can I walk in the city at night? Stick to well-lit, busy areas like Casco or the main streets of Marbella.
What do I do if I get sick? Private hospitals like Punta Pacifica (affiliated with Johns Hopkins) are world-class.
Do I need travel insurance? Yes, always recommended for any international travel.
Is the sun very strong? Yes, you are close to the equator. Wear SPF 50+ even on cloudy days.
Are there crocodiles? Yes, in the Canal and Gatun Lake. Do not swim in those areas.
What is the emergency number? 911 for general emergencies; 104 for police.
Day Trips & Further Travel
Can I visit the San Lorenzo Fort? Yes, it’s near Colon and offers amazing views of the Caribbean.
How do I get to Boquete? A 1-hour flight to David followed by a 45-minute drive.
What is El Valle de Anton? A town located inside a dormant volcanic crater, 2 hours from the city. Great for hiking.
Is Colon safe? The city of Colon has a high crime rate. Only visit for the Free Trade Zone or specific tours.
What are the Pearl Islands? An archipelago (including Contadora) accessible by ferry for white sand beaches.
Can I go to Costa Rica from here? Yes, there are daily buses (Tica Bus) and flights.
Is the Darien Gap passable? Absolutely not. It is dangerous and there are no roads.
What is Bocas del Toro? A Caribbean archipelago famous for surfing and partying; it’s a 1-hour flight away.
How do I get to the Atlantic side? Take the highway to Colon (1 hour) or the train.
Are there waterfalls nearby? Yes, several near El Valle and Gamboa.
Can I surf near Panama City? Not in the city, but Playa Chame (1.5 hours away) is popular for kite-surfing.
What is the “Interior”? A term locals use for everything outside Panama City.
Is there a ferry to Colombia? No, there are no regular ferries. You must fly or take a multi-day San Blas boat.
What is the best beach for kids? Taboga or the resorts in Playa Blanca.
Is Panama City worth a layover? Absolutely. Even 6–8 hours is enough to see the Canal and grab a great lunch.