Where is Panama?

Panama is located in the middle of the Western Hemisphere. It links South and North America and is bordered by the Caribbean Ocean on the North, the Pacific Ocean on the South, Colombia on the East, and Costa Rica on the West.

What will I need to enter the country?

A valid passport, a visa, a tourist card (available through airlines) and a return trip ticket to your place of origin are required. Tourist cards are valid for 30 days and are renewable in Panama for 2 months. If you have additional questions or concerns, please visit the embassy website.

What currency is used?

The Balboa is the official currency of Panama. However, American money is accepted throughout the country.

What language is spoken in Panama?

The official language of Panama is Spanish, however, English is widely spoken throughout the country.

What type of weather should I expect?

Temperatures are usually a wonderful 80-85(F) degrees during the day with pleasantly cooler temperatures in the evening. Click here to see the current forecast for Panama.

What type of transportation will I use?

Buses are the most common mode of transportation for tourists. Most buses are very colorful and the fares are reasonably priced. The driver normally owns the bus so negotiating a fare or a special trip is easily done. Taxis are also available for a reasonable price and can be rented for an entire day for $50 to $150.

You may also rent a car once you arrive. Arrangements will need to be made through your travel agent. There are several rental car companies located in Panama including Avis, National, Budget and Hertz. Some key points to remember when choosing your rental are to choose a compact car for easier mobility in traffic and make sure you carry insurance.

How is the drinking water?

Tap water in Panama is safe to drink.

What about cuisine?

There are many wonderful restaurants to visit throughout Panama, each providing a delicious and enjoyable dining experience. Seafood is prevalent and delectable throughout the country. A Panamanian custom is eating Guacho (pronounced wah-choh) every Friday for lunch. Guacho is a thick seafood gumbo that is extremely popular. If you’re hungry for something from home, many popular American fast food restaurants are available including McDonald’s, Burger King and many more.

Is there any nightlife?

Panama City offers many opportunities to unwind and make new friends while enjoying a night out on the town. Click here to see what’s happening!

LE PALACE and Josephine’s are favorite spots for gentlemen visitors.

What are the natives like?

Panama is a place of cultural diversity. Many cultures are present and well represented. Learn more about what life is like and check out the current news here (in Spanish).

Are any famous people from Panama?

Panama boasts many famous natives. In music: Danilo Pérez (latin jazz piano player), Rubén Blades (singer, songwriter, actor), Los Rabanes (latin rock), Rogelio Pretto (voiceovers, actor), Omar Alfano (songwriter for several artists including Miami Sound Machine). In sports: Roberto Duran, Rolando Blackman (Dallas Mavericks), Mariano Rivera (New York Yankess), Rodney Carew, Aileen Coparropa (among the world's best 100 swimmers), Roberto Kelly (baseball), Roquero Alcazar (AMB), Dely Valdes (soccer), and Laffit Pincay who was the first jockey to reach the 9,000 winnings milestone, breaking the previous record by Bill Shoemaker.

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Please note: This page is for informational purposes only. Any action taken or not taken by you is not the responsibility of Panama Travel or its subsidiaries.