North America
Below is a summary of how I entered, whether through a visa or another permitted route.
I entered this country using my US tourist visa, which allowed entry without a separate visa.
Last updated 2 hours ago
| S.No | Details | Date | Amount | Currency | Amount (NPR) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ~20/night | — | — | — | 60 | Accommodation |
| 2 | ~20/day | — | — | — | 60 | Food & Dining |
| 3 | — | — | — | — | 20 | Activities |
| 4 | Free | — | — | — | — | Activities |
| 5 | — | — | — | — | 22 | Activities |
| 6 | Free walk | — | — | — | — | Activities |
| 7 | — | — | — | — | 18 | Transport |
| 8 | — | — | — | — | 10 | Connectivity |
| 9 | — | — | — | — | 35 | Insurance |
| 10 | — | — | — | — | 20 | Miscellaneous |
| 11 | — | — | — | — | 10 | Miscellaneous |
| 12 | — | — | — | — | 15 | Transport |
| 13 | — | — | — | — | — | USD 270 |
| Total | 0.00 | 270 |
Last updated 2 hours ago
Panama uses the US Dollar as everyday cash alongside the Panamanian Balboa (coins only). The values are equal. Avoid carrying $50 and $100 bills due to counterfeit concerns. Small denominations are preferred throughout the country.
US tourists can stay in Panama for 180 days without a visa. You need a passport valid for at least 3 months, proof of funds ($500 cash or equivalent), and a return plane ticket for entry.
Exercise increased caution due to crime and potential civil unrest. Pickpocketing and purse snatching occur in tourist areas like Casco Viejo. Avoid displaying signs of wealth. The Darien Gap region near Colombia should be avoided entirely.
The Miraflores Locks Visitor Center lets you watch ships transit the canal. Arrive early for the best viewing positions. Large ships (Neopanamax) typically transit in the morning. The visitor center includes a museum and observation deck. Entry costs about $20.
Panama is warm and tropical year-round (75-90°F / 24-32°C). The dry season from December to April is best for beach trips and outdoor activities. The rainy season (May-November) brings afternoon showers but lower prices and fewer crowds.
The San Blas Islands are governed by the indigenous Guna people. Tours must be arranged through authorized Guna operators. Access is by small plane or 4WD followed by boat. Cell phone coverage and electricity are limited. Bring cash as there are no ATMs.
Last updated 2 hours ago
📍 Panama City
Explore Casco Viejo, the historic quarter of Panama City with its restored colonial architecture, plazas, and rooftop bars. Visit the Panama Canal Museum and the Church of San Jose with its famous Golden Altar. Walk along the Cinta Costera waterfront promenade for views of the modern skyline contrasting with the old town.
📍 Panama Canal and Gamboa
Visit the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center to watch massive ships transit through the Panama Canal, one of the greatest engineering feats in history. Head to the Gamboa Rainforest area for a boat ride on Gatun Lake, spotting monkeys, toucans, and crocodiles. Take the aerial tram through the tropical canopy at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.
📍 Bocas del Toro
Fly to Bocas del Toro and explore Isla Colon, the main island, with its Caribbean-style wooden buildings and reggae vibe. Take a boat tour to Starfish Beach on Isla Bastimentos to see colorful starfish in shallow turquoise waters. Snorkel at Coral Cay and Zapatilla Islands, home to pristine coral reefs and nesting sea turtles.
📍 San Blas Islands
Travel to the San Blas archipelago, home to the indigenous Guna people and over 365 palm-fringed islands. Swim in impossibly clear Caribbean waters, snorkel over shallow reefs, and relax on uninhabited islands with white sand and coconut palms. Learn about the Guna culture, their traditional mola textiles, and their self-governing community.
Last updated 2 hours ago
Chicken soup with root vegetables and cilantro-heavy broth, Panama's comforting national soup.
Fresh corvina fish marinated in lime juice with onions, peppers, and cilantro.
Fried yuca roll stuffed with seasoned ground meat, a popular breakfast or snack.
Fluffy fried bread served for breakfast with eggs, cheese, or sausage.
Savory chicken and rice cooked together with vegetables, olives, and sofrito.
Last updated 2 hours ago
Security Ranking
80/100
Strong
Panama currently trends toward low-to-moderate caution across the main government travel advisories we track.
Refreshed 04 Apr 2026
Last updated 2 hours ago
An 82-kilometer waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, best viewed from the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center where massive ships transit daily.
📍 Open in Google Maps →The historic quarter of Panama City with restored colonial architecture, rooftop bars, the Golden Altar church, and a striking contrast with the modern skyline.
📍 Open in Google Maps →An archipelago of over 365 pristine palm-fringed islands governed by the indigenous Guna people, offering untouched Caribbean beauty and cultural immersion.
📍 Open in Google Maps →A Caribbean archipelago known for its laid-back island vibe, crystal-clear waters, Starfish Beach, and colorful wooden houses built over the water.
📍 Open in Google Maps →Last updated 2 hours ago
A glimpse into our favourite moments from Panama.
Welcome to Panama
