How to Get to Panama Canal. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airports and Airlines

Air travel is the main method for most international visitors. Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is the main hub, approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) east of Panama City. Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB) is smaller, mainly for regional flights.

Air Carriers

Copa Airlines: Panama's flag carrier (Star Alliance), extensive network from PTY throughout the Americas and Caribbean.
Other Major Airlines: American, Delta, United (U.S.); KLM, Air France, Iberia, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines (Europe); Avianca, LATAM, Aeromexico (Latin America).
High Season (Mid-December to April): Higher flight prices due to increased demand. Book several months in advance.

Airport Transfers

Tocumen International Airport (PTY) has comprehensive facilities including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, and car rental agencies. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Getting to the City

Taxi: Readily available outside terminals. Fares to Panama City typically USD $30-40. Negotiate fare Before starting.
Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber, DiDi, InDriver): Often slightly cheaper (USD $20-30). Fares calculated upfront. Walk to designated pickup points.
Shared Shuttles: More economical (e.g., USD $10-15 per person), but involve multiple stops.

Flight Deals

Find affordable flights using Dollar Flight Club for price alerts.

Car Rentals

Compare rates and book vehicles at DiscoverCars.com for land travel flexibility.

Flight Search

Explore flight options and compare prices on Skyscanner for your trip.

Direct Flight Options

From North America & Europe

North America: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, New York (JFK/EWR), Los Angeles.
Canada: Toronto and Montreal.
Europe: Madrid, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Istanbul.
Low Season (June to October): Lower prices as tourist numbers decrease due to wet season.

From South America & Caribbean

South America: Extensive direct connections to virtually all major cities.
Caribbean: Numerous direct flights to various islands and territories.
Shoulder Season (May and November): Balance of reasonable prices and agreeable weather.
Panama City is a convenient transit point with wide direct flight options globally.

Land Travel Considerations

Border Crossings

Main land border with Costa Rica at Paso Canoas. Another crossing at Sixaola/Guabito on the Caribbean side. The Darien Gap to Colombia is dangerous and not traversable by land for tourists. Travelers between Panama and Colombia move by air or sea.

Train Services

The Panama Canal Railway connects Panama City (Corozal) with Colón, running parallel to the Canal. This offers an unique historical and luxury travel experience, with views of the Canal and Gatun Lake. It is mainly a tourist attraction with limited daily departures.

Bus Travel

Albrook Bus Terminal in Panama City is the central hub for all long-distance bus travel throughout Panama. Buses are generally comfortable, air-conditioned, and affordable. Services range from basic "express" to more comfortable "luxury" coaches.

Land Transportation Details

Self-Driving Requirements

For car rentals, drivers typically need to be over 21 or 25 years old. A valid driver's license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are usually necessary. A major credit card is mandatory for the security deposit. Full insurance coverage is highly recommended.

Insurance & Road Safety

Verify credit card car rental insurance validity and third-party liability coverage in Panama.
Major highways are generally well-maintained. Rural roads can be less so, with potholes or unpaved sections.
Panama City traffic can be congested. Local driving habits are assertive; drivers may not always follow traffic laws diligently.

Driving Environment

Night driving outside urban areas is not recommended due to poor lighting, unmarked obstacles (pedestrians, animals), and a higher risk of accidents. Always use a GPS or a reliable navigation app. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

Traffic and Hazards

Heavy congestion is a daily reality in Panama City, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
Motorcyclists and pedestrians may be unpredictable, especially in urban areas.
Heavy rainfall can cause temporary flooding on roads during the wet season.

Cruise Ports

Fuerte Amador Cruise Terminal (Pacific) is the main terminal for Panama City. Colon 2000 Cruise Port (Caribbean) serves Caribbean cruises.

Ferry Services

No international car/passenger ferries connect Panama to other countries. Domestic ferry services run to islands like Taboga Island.

Departure Information

Airport Departure Procedures

Departure tax for international flights from Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is typically included in the airfare. Most airlines incorporate this fee into your ticket price. Verify with your airline or travel agent when booking. Arrive at PTY at least 3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure.

Timeliness and Check-in

This allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
It is especially important during peak travel times or holidays.
Complete online check-in beforehand to save time, especially with carry-on luggage.

Airport Facilities

Tocumen International Airport (PTY) offers a wide array of facilities for departing travelers. These facilities contribute to a comfortable waiting experience before your flight.

Amenities & Services

Numerous dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
Extensive duty-free shopping for last-minute purchases.
Lounges are available for eligible passengers seeking comfort.

Financial & Logistics

Financial Needs

Currency exchange services and ATMs are present for any last-minute financial needs. Have some local currency (USD) or a credit card for final airport purchases.

Security Procedures

Be prepared for standard airport security screening. Have your liquids, electronics, and any required documents ready for inspection.

Efficient Departure

For a quick departure, use ride-sharing apps (Uber, DiDi) to get to Tocumen Airport. Schedule your ride in advance, especially for early morning flights, for availability.

Final Thoughts on Departure

The efficiency of Tocumen International Airport, with varied transportation options, makes getting to and from Panama straightforward. Your journey begins with informed planning.

How to Get to Panama Canal