Panama, a unique crossroads between North and South America, offers diverse experiences for travelers and expats. This guide provides essential travel tips, from preparing necessary documents to understanding the best times and ways to move. We'll cover Panama's strategic location, main entry points and key immigration policies to ensure a smooth journey, whether you're arriving by air, sea or land.
Panama's location
Nestled between two oceans—the Pacific and the Atlantic—Panama is a narrow strip of land connecting the two American continents. It is 772 km (480 mi) long and between 60 and 177 kilometers (37 and 110 miles) wide. To the north, its shores are washed by the Caribbean Sea, and to the south, it opens to the Pacific Ocean. One of the world's most important waterways, the Panama Canal, cuts through the Isthmus of Panama.
Bordering countries
Panama has two neighbors: Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east. Rivers and mountains define the border with Costa Rica. Dense, often impassable jungles separate Panama from Colombia.
The best time to travel to Panama
Panama's climate offers warm temperatures year-round. Without a doubt, you won't be cold. However, the country has two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. Depending on the purpose of your trip, some dates may be more favorable than others.
The dry season (December to April)
With sunny and dry weather, this period is considered the best time to visit this tropical gem. Locals call it “summer”. This time of the year is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling and exploring beaches. Unexpected rain is unlikely to interrupt your sightseeing. February's Carnival celebrations bring unique festivities to each region. On the days of Carnival and other holidays, such as New Year and Holy Week, the tourist hotspots buzz with crowds. Plan accordingly for lodging and transportation.
- Weather: Average daily highs range from 29°C to 35°C (85°F to 95°F), with cooler conditions in the highlands like Boquete or El Valle de Anton. Precipitation is unlikely.
- Reasons to visit: Sunny days with minimal rainfall are perfect for exploring.
The rainy season (May to November)
This time of the year (locals call it “winter”) is a green season. Heavy rains are common, but mornings are often clear. While May to September is a mix of sunshine and rain, October and November bring persistent downpours that may last the entire day. Some travelers avoid the rainy season, but it has its perks, such as lush landscapes and fewer people around.
- Weather: Daily highs are similar to “summer,” but humidity is higher, and heavy rains are frequent.
- Reasons to visit: If you cherish peace and solitude, this is the perfect time to explore the country without the crowds. Also, accommodation and tour prices are lower. For wildlife lovers, July to October is the whale season when you can see these majestic animals in some coastal parts of Panama.
Packing tips
- Dry season: Lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent and swimwear.
- Rainy season: Waterproof jackets, sturdy shoes, quick-dry clothing, mosquito repellent, sunscreen and swimwear for sunny intervals.
Ports of entry in Panama
Panama is accessible by air, land and sea. Its developed infrastructure and well-connected transport networks make it easy to get in and travel around the country.
Airports
Most international travelers arrive in Panama by air. Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is the main gateway into the country and the regional hub for flights to and from the Caribbean, South, North and Central America. Additionally, the airport serves some routes to Europe and Turkey. Located about 20 km from Panama City, the airport is connected to the city by Corredor Sur, and it takes about 30 minutes to get there without traffic. Official taxis, as well as Uber, are available at the airport. The price of a taxi ride is around $30. Uber tends to be cheaper, depending on the time and traffic.
Other smaller international airports include:
- Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB) near the capital;
- Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) in David, Chiriquí;
- Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (PAC) in the capital;
- Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) in Coclé.
There are also local airports serving routes within Panama's regions.
If your destination in Panama is not the capital but another area, your flight might not be direct. It depends on where you are traveling from. For example, if you go to the paradisiacal islands of Bocas del Toro from Europe, you will arrive in Panama City and need to change airports. The last part of the trip, from Panama City to Colón Island, does not have to be by air. You can choose to do it by land, either by bus or car. The Panamerican Highway will take you across the country if you don't mind longer travel times.
Land border crossing
If you enjoy road trips, you can rent a car or hop on local buses to explore this beautiful land. It is an excellent opportunity to soak in Panama's stunning landscapes and meet locals. You can stop in towns and villages along the way, visit pristine beaches and hike in the mountains. In this way, the road becomes an integral part of the journey, not just a means of getting to the destination.
As mentioned above, Panama shares land borders with Costa Rica and Colombia.
Border with Costa Rica: The main crossings are Paso Canoas, Sixaola-Guabito and Río Sereno-San Vito. You must go through the immigration process and fill out a customs declaration form.
Border with Colombia: There's no direct road with Colombia due to the Darien Gap, a 100 km stretch of impassable terrain that breaks the Panamerican Highway. You would need to take a boat through the Darien Gap and continue your journey by land. However, this passage can be inconvenient and even dangerous, and air and sea routes between the two countries are the easiest way to travel.
Seaports
Panama has several maritime ports for both tourism and commercial purposes. The country receives numerous cruise ships, and private sailboats and yachts frequent its waters. If you are traveling by private vessel, you may need additional cruising permits besides the usual entry requirements.
Immigration policies and entry requirements in Panama
Panama welcomes international travelers but has specific immigration policies. The requirements vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.
Tourist visas
Nationals from over 100 countries can enter Panama without a visa for short stays, typically up to 90 days. For some nationalities, stays of up to 180 days are allowed.
If you are from one of those countries, your entry into Panama will be hassle-free. Upon arrival, you may need to show proof of onward travel, such as a return flight or a bus ticket to leave Panamanian territory. If you plan to stay longer, or if the purpose of your visit is not tourism (e.g., work or study), you may need to apply for a visa at Panama's Consulate in your home country before your travels or seek an extension once you are in Panama.
Visa-exempt countries
Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa to enter Panama for a stay of 90-180 days. Be sure to check the allowed duration for your nationality before your trip.
- The United States;
- Canada;
- European Union countries;
- Russia;
- Australia;
- Most Latin American countries (except Venezuela, Cuba, Dominican Republic and Haiti);
- Some countries in Asia, such as Japan, South Korea and Singapore.
A special case is for holders of a multiple-entry visa issued by Canada, the United States, South Korea, Japan, the United Kingdom, Singapore or the European Union. If you require a visa to enter Panama but have one for the countries mentioned above, you can travel to Panama visa-free. Note that you must have used the visa of those countries at least once. Additionally, it must remain valid for at least six (6) months upon entry.
If you do not require a visa for Panama but wish to stay more than 90 days, you must request an extension through Panama's National Immigration Service. Depending on the case, hiring a local attorney to assist you with the process may be helpful.
Nationalities that need a visa
Nationals of some countries in Africa, Asia, Oceania and Latin America must apply for a visa at Panama's Consulate in their country of origin before traveling. Check the requirements with the Panamanian Embassy or Consulate in advance, as the visa-issuing process takes time. Plan accordingly.
Exemptions
You don't need a visa to enter Panama if you have a diplomatic passport from the following countries:
- Cuba;
- Dominican Republic;
- Haiti;
- Indonesia;
- Philippines;
- Republic of China;
- Venezuela.
Crossing the Panamiam border
Like in any other part of the world, having the correct documentation on hand is crucial when crossing the Panamanian border.
The necessary documents:
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from arrival. Always double-check this before the trip to avoid problems.
- Residency card: If you are a resident of Panama, you must show your residency card.
- Proof of onward travel: You must have a return flight ticket or a bus ticket to leave Panamanian territory.
- Sufficient funds: You may need to present proof of sufficient funds, such as bank statements, credit cards or cash. Immigration officers don't always ask for these documents, but having them on hand is important.
You will need to fill out a customs declaration form. Do the necessary research on duty-free allowances to avoid problems at the border.
Vaccine requirements when traveling to Panama
There are no mandatory vaccines required to travel to Panama. However, if you are arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever virus transmission, you may need to show a valid yellow fever vaccination card. Verify up-to-date information.
COVID-19 vaccines or negative test results are not required to enter Panama.
Although not mandatory, some vaccines are recommended, including Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, yellow fever and routine vaccines, depending on the nature of your trip and the region of the country.
Takeaway
Traveling to Panama is relatively straightforward for most visitors, especially for visa-exempt nationalities. Citizens of the nations requiring a visa to enter Panama should do preliminary research and apply in advance. This country is a great destination for short and long visits. Its convenient location and developed transport infrastructure make it an international hub. Make sure you have the proper documentation for a smooth and hassle-free experience. Always check the latest requirements for your nationality before your trip to avoid problems at the border.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
