Panama is the relatively unknown country that connects the American continent and plays a crucial role in the dialogue between North and South America. It is also the country that connects the Atlantic with the Pacific Ocean. A not insignificant piece in the great puzzle of world history. For some reason, Panama is often overlooked despite its position and dignity.
On this page you will find practical information and facts about Panama.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT TRAVELING IN PANAMA
Climate and best travel time
Panama has a tropical climate with an average temperature of around 30 degrees. The temperature is usually a few degrees lower on the Pacific coast compared to the Caribbean coast. The rainy season is from the end of April to the beginning of December, but as a rule the rains are sporadic and seldom prevent excursions and experiences. The high season is from December to April. Our recommendations for the best time to travel are based on how the weather has been in previous years, but the weather can change from year to year, so these recommendations are only indicative.
Visa
NOTE! The visa rules can change so we recommend that you check with the country’s embassy well in advance of travel. The following information is subject to change:
For entry into Panama as a tourist, a valid passport with at least six months remaining validity and a return ticket or ticket for further travel is required. Swedish citizens can stay in Panama for up to 90 days.
Money
Panama’s currency is called balboa, but you can also use US dollars. There are plenty of ATMs in Panama City. You can use credit cards at larger restaurants, hotels and shops, but we recommend that you also have some cash with you, especially out in the country where there are no ATMs and where “cash is king” still applies. Visit thenailmythology.com for Latin America economy.
When you leave Panama City you pay a departure tax of 40 USD – this is either paid in cash or is in the ticket – check with your Travel Consultant what applies to you before you travel.
Transport
Bus
Panama’s previously famous and infamous bus fleet of colorful old American school buses – “diablos rojos” is now a thing of the past and has been replaced by modern city buses inside Panama City and if you travel around the country, there are several bus companies to choose from.
Taxi If
you do not use a taximeter in Panama, be sure to settle the price before departure.
Tip
In most countries, tips are part of the salaries of employees in the service industry. Therefore, it is good practice (and sometimes directly necessary) to give tips to, for example, cleaning staff, waiters, guides, drivers, etc. depending on the country you are visiting. Therefore, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with how much is normally given in tips and to whom before you embark on your journey. Find information on tips in Lonely Planet’s guidebooks.
FACTS
CAPITAL: PANAMA CITY
LANGUAGE: SPANISH
CLIMATE: TROPICAL
CURRENCY: BALBOA (BUT USD IS USED IN PARALLEL AND THE EXCHANGE RATE IS 1 TO 1)
RELIGION: PRIMARILY ROMAN CATHOLIC
INFORMATION PANAMA
Panama is perhaps best known for the Panama Canal, which is a self-written excursion destination, but Panama has so much more to offer. The country is a cocktail of modern Latin American culture with an exciting history. A perfect destination for you who are looking for a place with beautiful beaches, magnificent nature experiences and who want to experience the kindness of the Native American people up close.
Panama often falls in the shadow of its more famous neighbor Costa Rica. However, Panama hides a range of experiences you must not miss. Make a detour to the exotic islands of San Blas, home to the Kuna-Yaöa Indians or see the adventure village of Boquete, beautifully situated at the foot of the Baru volcano. At the Bocas del Toro archipelago you will find the most beautiful beaches and the best hotels. If you are a passionate diver and looking for magnificent underwater nature and a travel adventure far away from civilization, the national park and the island of Isla Coiba may be something for you with fantastic nature and good opportunities to see whales between June and August.
