Panama is a country full of diversity, with a rich culture, stunning natural landscapes and a wide variety of activities for all tastes, from exploring the iconic Panama Canal and hiking in the Baru Volcano National Park, to relaxing on the Caribbean and Pacific beaches or enjoying the lively nightlife of Panama City. Panamanians are warm and friendly, and their cuisine is a delight for the most demanding palates. In addition, Panama has a large number of natural reserves that protect the native flora and fauna, making it ideal for nature lovers.
Strategically located in the Central American isthmus, Panama is bordered to the north by the Caribbean Sea and to the south by the Pacific Ocean. It is bordered to the east by Colombia and to the west by Costa Rica. Its privileged geographical location has turned Panama into an important maritime and air transit center, especially thanks to the famous Panama Canal that connects the two oceans.
Traditions
- Panama has a rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals.
- The Carnival celebration is one of the most important festivities, with colorful parades, music and dancing.
- Another traditional event is Holy Week, where religious processions are held in several cities throughout the country.
Biodiversity
- Panama is recognized for its incredible biodiversity, hosting a variety of ecosystems such as tropical forests, mangroves, mountains and coral reefs.
- The country is home to a large number of species, including a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and plants.
How to get to Panama: To get to Panama, you can choose direct flights from various cities in the Americas, Europe and Asia. The main airlines offering flights to Panama are Copa Airlines, American Airlines, Delta and United Airlines. Tocumen International Airport, located about 24 km from the city center, is the main entry point to the country. In addition, there is also the option of arriving by land from neighboring Costa Rica.
Air routes: Air routes to Panama are varied and cover a wide range of international destinations. The airlines mentioned above offer direct flights from cities such as New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Madrid and Paris, among others. There are also other airlines that offer flights with stopovers from different parts of the world, which facilitates global connectivity with Panama.
Currency: Panama’s official currency is the balboa. However, the U.S. dollar is widely accepted and circulates as legal tender throughout the country. This facilitates transactions for international visitors, as they can use U.S. dollars without the need to exchange their currency. Local banks and exchange houses offer currency exchange services for those wishing to obtain balboas.
Climate:
Panama’s climate is tropical and humid throughout the year. Average temperatures vary between 25°C and 30°C, with high humidity that can make the weather feel hotter. The dry season runs from December to April, while the rainy season begins in May and ends in November.
During the dry season, you can expect sunny days with very little rain. The rainy season, on the other hand, brings heavy rain and thunderstorms often. It is important to wear waterproof clothing and proper shoes in case of rain.
Highlights: Panama offers a wide variety of tourist destinations that attract visitors from all over the world. Highlights include modern Panama City, with its impressive skyline and historic old town known as Casco Viejo. The Panama Canal is a must-see, where you can witness the magnificence of this engineering marvel. In addition, the beautiful beaches of Bocas del Toro, the San Blas archipelago and Coiba National Park are natural destinations that offer unique experiences in contact with biodiversity and local culture.
Requirements for traveling to Panama
- To enjoy your trip to Panama, you must take into account the following documents and regulations:
- Valid passport, with at least 6 months.
- Return ticket to the country of origin or the next destination to visit.
- Present economic solvency of at least five hundred dollars (USD $500.00), either in cash, credit card, bank reference, letter of employment or traveler’s checks. Some nationalities must present a higher amount. We recommend validating with the Panamanian consulate in your country or with your airline.
- Address of the place of lodging and reason for travel.
- Some nationalities need to present a tourist visa before traveling to Panama. We recommend if this is your case to go directly to the Panamanian consulate in your country. If you have any other questions, please visit the website of the National Immigration Service of Panama or check with your airline.
- Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for all persons traveling from Brazil, who must present the international vaccination certificate issued by ANVISA made at least 10 days prior to arrival. Exceptions:
- Children under 1 year old and adults over 60 years old.
- Travelers in transit in Brazil without leaving the transit zones.
- Holders of a certificate of contraindication for medical reasons.
Type of Charger and Current.
- The type of plug used in Panama is Type A and Type B, with a standard electrical voltage of 110 volts.
- If you are traveling from a country with a different type of plug, it is advisable to bring a universal plug adapter.
Lodging Offer
- Panama offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to budget accommodations.
- In Panama City, you will find a number of internationally renowned hotels and boutique options in the Casco Antiguo.
- In addition, the country has a variety of beach resorts and eco-lodges in natural areas.
Best Dates to Travel: The best dates to travel to Panama vary according to your preferences and desired activities. If you are looking to enjoy the dry and sunny weather, I would recommend visiting between the months of December and April. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the beautiful beaches of Bocas del Toro and San Blas. On the other hand, if you prefer to avoid the tourist crowds and take advantage of cheaper rates, consider traveling during the low season, which covers the months of May through November. Keep in mind that this season may have more rainfall, but it also offers the opportunity to enjoy lush vegetation and authentic experiences in destinations such as Boquete and El Valle de Anton. Whichever season you choose, Panama awaits you with its rich culture, impressive biodiversity and a variety of exciting activities to enjoy.
Panama is a fascinating and diverse country that combines a rich history, incredible biodiversity and warm hospitality. With its strategic location, tropical climate, vibrant traditions and wide range of accommodations, Panama is a destination not to be missed.