Local Transportation: Panama Canal

Public Transportation in Panama City

Panama City features a modern, clean, and air-conditioned subway system, the Metro de Panamá, with two operational lines. Line 1 connects Albrook (the main bus terminal) with areas like Via Españan and El Cangrejo. Line 2 runs from San Miguelito (a transfer station) east to Tocumen International Airport (PTY). The Metro offers a reliable and quick way to avoid city traffic. Metro maps are available at all stations.

The Metrobus is a comprehensive network of air-conditioned public buses covering most of Panama City and its suburbs. These buses replaced the older "Diablo Rojos" (red devil buses). Metrobus routes can be extensive but offer wide coverage. Google Maps is generally reliable for Metrobus route planning. Albrook Station and San Miguelito are important hubs for transfers.

Ticketing & Operations

Both Metro and Metrobus use a single, rechargeable Metrobus card. Cash is not accepted.
Cards are available for a few dollars at Metro stations, Albrook Bus Terminal, and some supermarkets.
Metro fares range from USD $0.35 to $1.25. Metrobus fares are typically USD $0.25 for standard routes.
Metro operates early morning (5:00 AM weekdays) until late evening (10:00 PM - 11:00 PM), reduced on weekends.

Accessibility

The Metro system is modern and accessible, with elevators, ramps, and tactile paving. Newer Metrobus units offer better accessibility features.

Efficient Navigation

Purchase a Metrobus card early. Use Google Maps for real-time route planning. Avoid rush hour (6:30 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM).

Miraflores Locks Access

Metro does not directly reach Miraflores Locks. Combine a Metro ride to Albrook with a taxi or ride-sharing service, or opt for a dedicated tour bus.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxis are typically yellow cars with a taxi sign and number.
Hailing on the street is possible, also from designated stands.
Negotiate and agree on the fare Before starting the journey; meters are rarely used for tourists.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber, DiDi, and InDriver are widely used in Panama City.
These apps offer price transparency with fares calculated upfront and cashless payment.
Generally considered safer than hailing random street taxis due to GPS tracking and rating systems.

Typical Fares & Safety Tips

Short City Ride

USD $3 - $7

City to Miraflores

USD $10 - $20

Payment

Cash (USD) is main. Carry small bills.

Safety

Confirm fare first. Choose reputable taxis or ride-share.

Rental Options

For travelers who prefer independent exploration or plan to visit areas less served by public transport, rental options are available. These choices offer flexibility for your itinerary.

Car Rental

Drivers typically 21/25+, need valid home driver's license + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Major credit card mandatory for security deposit.
Full insurance coverage (collision, liability) highly recommended.
Major international companies (Hertz, Avis, Budget) and local ones operate here.

Motorcycle & Bicycle

Motorcycle/scooter rentals are less common for general tourism in Panama City.
Not generally recommended for navigating heavy city traffic.
Bicycle rentals available around Amador Causeway, with dedicated bike paths.
Panama City lacks an extensive city-wide bicycle sharing program.

Driving Environment & Rules

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Speed limits are posted, but local drivers may exceed them.

Panamanian drivers can be assertive; lane discipline is often ignored.
Night driving outside urban areas is not recommended due to poor lighting and obstacles.
Parking in Panama City can be challenging and expensive, especially in popular areas.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Casco Viejo

Historic district, best explored on foot. Narrow cobblestone streets, charming plazas, colonial architecture.

Amador Causeway

Long, paved scenic route. Excellent for walking, jogging, cycling with panoramic city and Canal views.

Metropolitan Park

Urban rainforest park with well-maintained walking trails, offering city and Canal views.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard modes, specific transport options offer unique ways to experience Panama, especially the Canal. Accessibility services are also available for travelers with mobility needs.

Tour Buses & Water Taxis

Panama City hop-on-hop-off bus covers major attractions, including a stop near Miraflores Locks.
Organized day trips specifically to the Panama Canal, often including transport and guide services.
Panama Canal Transit Tours: Partial (half-day) or full (full-day) transits let passengers experience locks firsthand.
Ferry to Taboga Island from Fuerte Amador for a beach escape.

Unique Experiences

Gatun Lake Boat Tours visit "Monkey Island" or offer wildlife viewing in the Canal’s watershed.
Aerial Tram (Gamboa Rainforest Resort) offers views of the rainforest canopy.
Miraflores Locks Visitor Center is accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
For comprehensive accessibility, pre-arranged accessible private transport with specialized tour companies.

Walking & Cycling Zones

Walking Tours

Numerous guided walking tours are available in Casco Viejo, focusing on history, architecture, or culinary experiences.

Self-guided tours are easy with maps or apps.

Bicycle Safety

Dedicated bike paths mainly on Amador Causeway, making it safe for cycling.

Cycling in other parts of Panama City can be challenging due to heavy traffic.

No-Go Areas

Certain neighborhoods in Panama City (El Chorrillo, Curundú, San Miguelito) are not recommended for walking, especially after dark, due to higher crime rates.

Stick to well-lit, well-trafficked, and tourist-friendly areas.

Metro & Metrobus Tips

Card Management

Keep your Metrobus card safe; it is necessary for every ride.
Have small USD bills available for recharging the card at vending machines.
The Metro is useful for inner-city travel but does not directly reach Miraflores Locks.

Efficient Use

Purchase a Metrobus card soon after arriving if you plan extensive public transport use.
Avoid using Metro and Metrobus during peak rush hour to prevent extreme crowding.
Use Google Maps or a local transit app for real-time route planning and estimated travel times.

Important Safety Reminders

Always agree on the fare with taxi drivers Before starting your journey to avoid inflated prices.
Exercise caution when cycling outside the Amador Causeway due to heavy traffic.
Do not attempt to cross the Darien Gap by land; it is extremely dangerous.
Always be aware of your surroundings, regardless of location.

Research specific areas if you plan to venture beyond typical tourist hubs.
Motorcyclists and pedestrians may be unpredictable, especially in urban areas; drive defensively.
Heavy rains during the wet season can cause localized flooding or make unpaved roads muddy.
Always confirm the car make, model, and license plate match the app for ride-sharing services.

Seamless Travel

Whether you navigate the city by public transport, taxi, or a rental car, a smooth travel experience awaits.

Local Transportation