Panama Panama Travel Guide
The dry season in Panama runs from From december To april. This period features less rainfall, lower humidity, and abundant sunshine. Days are generally bright and clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach visits, and island hopping. Temperatures stay warm, but the reduced humidity renders the heat more manageable.
Conversely, the wet season extends from May to November. This period brings higher rainfall, often in the form of short, heavy afternoon downpours. Skies can be more overcast, and humidity levels rise. Temperatures stay warm, and the cloud cover can at times have an agreeable break from the powerful sunlight.
Panama is situated south of the central hurricane belt. This signifies direct hurricane strikes are extremely rare, which distinguishes it from numerous other Caribbean destinations. However, tropical storms and depressions could result in heavy rains, strong winds, and localized flooding during the wet season, notably from September to November.
These events are usually short-lived and forecast in advance, enabling adjustments to travel plans. Extreme temperatures are not common; the warmth is consistent, without the dramatic swings witnessed in temperate climates.
December to April
Minimal rain, abundant sunshine, perfect weather for beaches and outdoor activities. Many festivals.
Higher prices, with more people attractions. Advance booking necessary.
May and November
Fewer crowds, a little less prices. Generally good weather along along with some rain chances.
Weather can be unpredictable. Mix of sunny days and sudden downpours.
From june To october
Lowest prices, significantly fewer crowds. Lush green landscapes, ideal for rainforest and rafting.
Frequent heavy rainfall, muddy trails. Higher humidity levels.
For beach and island hopping (San Blas, Bocas del Toro), the dry season (December-April) provides the best scenarios with minimal rain and calm, clear waters. Hiking and volcano climbing (Volcán Barú, Boquete) are also best during the dry season for clearer trails and better visibility. Whitewater rafting thrives in the wet season (May-November) due to higher river levels.
Wildlife viewing (Soberanía National Park, Gamboa) is possible year-round, though dry season access might be easier. Panama City exploration is enjoyable throughout the year, with dry season offering comfortable conditions for guided walks, and rainy season having fewer crowds. If attending Carnival, plan for February or March (dates are variable).
Dry Season (December-April)
Dry Season (December-April)
Wet Season (May-November)
Year-round (dry season for comfort, wet for fewer crowds)
February or March (dates vary)
Panama maintains a welcoming guidelines for tourists, featuring a lot of countries enjoying visa-free access.
Many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union member states, Australia, New Zealand, and numerous Latin American countries, do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 180 days. Visitors from these nations simply receive an entry stamp upon arrival.
Without considering your visa status, certain documents are necessary for all visitors entering Panama.
This is the primary international gateway to The Capital of panama. Procedures are generally efficient, but wait times can vary depending on flight arrivals.
Panama uses the U.S. Dollar (USD) as its main paper currency, alongside the Panamanian Balboa (PAB) in coin form, that is pegged 1:1 to the USD. This makes it easier money matters for a lot of foreign travelers. Costs can vary significantly depending on your travel style.
The U.S. Dollar is legal tender and circulates freely throughout Panama, making it the most common currency for transactions. The Panamanian Balboa exists only in coin denominations and is interchangeable with U.S. Coins. You will receive a mix of U.S. And Panamanian coins as change.
Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are widely accepted in cities, tourist areas, mid-range to luxury hotels, and larger restaurants. ATMs are readily available in metropolitan areas. It is consistently wise to notify your bank about your trip plans.
Approx. US$40-70 per day. Focus on hostels, local fondas, and public transport for an economical trip.
Hostel dorms (US$15-25), fonda meals (US$5-10).
Avoid expensive tours; utilize free attractions like taking a walk tours.
Approx. US$80-150 per day. Hotels with good amenities, diverse dining, and some organized tours.
Mid-range hotels (US$60-100), sit-down restaurants (US$15-30).
Balance domestic flights with bus travel for efficiency.
Approx. US$200+ per day. Premium accommodation, fine dining, and unique tours.
Luxury hotels (US$150-500+), fine dining (US$50-100+).
Private transfers, chartered boats, and specialized diving trips.
| Category | Budget Range | Mid-Range to Luxury |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | Hostel dorm: US$15-25 | Hotel/Resort: US$60-500+ |
| Meals (per person) | Street food/Fonda: US$5-10 | Restaurant: US$15-100+ |
| Transportation | Metro/Bus: US$0.25-1.50 | Taxi/Uber: US$3-15 (city), Flights: US$50-150+ (domestic) |
Panama is generally a safe and welcoming destination for tourists.
When arriving from a a country with risk (parts of South America, Africa), present your ICVP. Vaccination must be 10+ days before arrival.
Discuss personal recommendations 4-6 weeks before your trip. Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and Rabies are common recommendations.
Ensure MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, and Flu shots are up-to-date.
Mosquito-borne Diseases:
A mosquito-borne tropical disease, Zika virus, and Chikungunya are present. These viruses are transmitted by mosquitoes, active day and night.
Prevention: Use Insect repellent containing DEET. Wear Long-sleeved shirts and slacks. Sleep under mosquito nets.
See LifeStraw for water purification.
Drink bottled/purified water. Don't have ice from tap water. Eat thoroughly cooked, hot food. Peel fruits/vegetables. Practice hand hygiene with Hand sanitizer.
Use High-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Wear Wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses. Stay hydrated and stay in the shade when the sun is strongest.
Clean and disinfect scrapes promptly. Carry a small First-aid kit with antiseptic wipes and bandages.
Panama is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime is prevalent, notably in crowded spots. Be aware of your surroundings.
Panama is in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes occur, but major destructive ones are infrequent. Heavy rains during the wet season can cause localized flooding and landslides.
Familiarize yourself with security measures. Major destructive events are infrequent.
Achievable during the wet season (May-November), especially in rural/mountainous areas. Take note of local alerts.
Direct hurricanes are rare. Tropical storms can bring high winds and rainfall (Sept-Nov). Monitor forecasts.
