Panama Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Panama City
- Currency
- Panamanian Balboa / US Dollar (PAB/USD $)
- Best time to visit
- The dry season from mid-December to April offers the sunniest weather for beaches, hiking, and city sightseeing.
Visa requirements
Citizens of the US, EU, Canada, and many other nations enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 to 180 days with a valid passport.
Getting around
Panama City has a clean metro and ride-hailing apps, while domestic flights, buses, and 4x4 transfers reach beaches, islands, and the highlands.
Safety
Panama is among the safer Central American countries, with modern Panama City generally secure in tourist and business districts. Avoid the Darién region near Colombia and certain rougher neighborhoods, and take normal precautions at night.
Tipping customs
Tipping around 10% is standard in restaurants, and a few dollars for guides and hotel staff is appreciated.
Travel tips
The US dollar is the everyday currency, called the balboa locally, so no exchange is needed for US travelers. Panama City has a modern metro and widespread card acceptance. The San Blas islands are cash-only and run by the indigenous Guna people.