About Panama

 

The Republic of Panama is an isthmus located at the center of the Americas, connecting Central and South America. It is bordered to the north by the Caribbean Sea, to the south by the Pacific Ocean, to the east by Colombia, and the west by Costa Rica.

 

It covers an area of 275,000 square kilometers and has a population of 4.4 million. Its ethnic, musical, and culinary diversity makes it a true melting pot unique worldwide.


Panama's climate is humid tropical monsoon with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from April to December. The average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius, ranging from 31 during the day to 25 at night. Almost all establishments have air conditioning, with temperatures ranging between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius.

Time

 

The local time belongs to the Eastern Standard Time Zone (GMT-0500) with no variations throughout the year.

Language

 

Spanish is the official language of Panama; however, many of its residents and most hotel and tourist destination employees also speak English.

Capital City

 

Panama City consists of three distinct areas. The first, called Panamá Viejo, was the oldest city in the New World on the Pacific coast and was founded on August 15, 1519, by Pedro Arias de Ávila. The city later moved to what is now known as Casco Antiguo, and between these two lies Modern Panama. Panama City has a population of 1.5 million inhabitants.

Currency

 

The Panamanian Balboa (B/.) is the official currency. The Balboa only exists in coin form. The U.S. dollar circulates as the official paper currency and is on par with the Panamanian Balboa at a one-to-one ratio. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express credit cards are accepted at most establishments.

How to Get There

 

Tocumen International Airport is considered the hub of the Americas with daily connections to all of America and Europe.

 

Requirements for Traveling to Panama:

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General Information about Panama

 

Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a modern city framed by the Pacific Ocean and the artificial Panama Canal. On the Pacific side, there are two visitor centers, one at the Miraflores Locks and another at Cocoli, where you can watch ships pass through the canal, a vital commercial route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The Casco Viejo, the historic cobblestone district, is renowned for its colonial-era sites, bougainvillea-covered streets, cafes, and bars.

Local Transportation

The congress organization will provide free transportation during peak hours and at key locations to and from hotels, social events, and scientific sessions. The Uber service works very well throughout the city. There is a system of regular and tourist taxis that are very safe, but it is recommended to ask for the fare before boarding as they do not use meters.

Most hotels have tour operators with well-equipped and air-conditioned vehicles. Rental car offices are available at all airports and several hotels across the country. The minimum age for renting a vehicle is 25 years, with a valid driver's license.

Electricity

Electricity operates at 110 Volts/60 Hertz, the same as in North America. If needed, most hotels have adapters available.

Taxes

The Value Added Tax (VAT) in Panama is called ITBMS (Tax on the Transfer of Movable Goods and Services). It applies to the sale of goods and services. The standard rate is 7%, but it increases to 10% on alcoholic products and hotel accommodations.

Medical Precautions

Tap water everywhere is safe to drink and of very good quality. It is recommended to stay well-hydrated to prevent dehydration. Also, use mosquito repellent, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. In case of emergency, dial 911. Panama City has excellent medical facilities with state and private hospitals and clinics providing 24-hour care.

Minimum Drinking Age

The legal drinking age is 18 years old.

25 Things to Do in Panama

1. Walk through Casco Antiguo

This is one of Panama's most popular tourist spots due to its colonial buildings, vibrant colors, and the variety of activities available in the area. If you love photography, you'll adore it! Be sure to visit Paseo de Las Bóvedas, Plaza de Francia, Plaza de la Independencia, Museo del Canal Interoceánico, Plaza Bolívar, and Plaza Catedral. Besides exploring these historic sites, enjoy the area's various restaurants and refreshment spots.

2. Visit the ruins of Panama Viejo

Dedicate a few hours to learning about the first city on the West Coast of the Americas, which served as the main city in Latin America.

3. Discover the Biomuseo in Amador

Designed by Frank Gehry, this architectural marvel is the only building he created in Latin America. Inside, you'll find exquisite exhibits about Panama's biodiversity.

4. Taste the flavors of El Chorrillo and the Seafood Market

Here you'll find one of Panama's favorite dishes: fried fish. Sabores del Chorrillo is a food market with mini-restaurants offering a wide variety of Afro-Panamanian gastronomic products: patacones, seafood, coconut rice, and ceviche. Don't miss it!

5. Explore Panama's coolest areas

Many people think they know Panama by visiting the most touristic spots, but if you want to understand the true Panamanian idiosyncrasy, visit these entertainment-filled areas:

Costa del Este: Always lively, with new establishments opening daily. You can enjoy outdoor cafes or dine at exquisite restaurants.

San Francisco: This area features art galleries, chic salons, unique chocolates, and ice cream parlors.

El Cangrejo: Home to famous Panamanian boxer Roberto Durán, this area is known for its bohemian and artistic vibe. Don’t miss the Andrés Bello Park, where you can hear parrots singing during sunset.

Clayton and Albrook: Once part of the Canal Zone, this area is ideal for enjoying green, lush spaces. You can also watch ships passing through the Panama Canal.

6. Experience Panamanian folklore at Mi Pueblito

Learn about the history of the various cultures that make Panama a melting pot of races. You can also shop for 100% Panamanian-made handicrafts.

7. Cross tour at the Panama Canal

The best way to experience this engineering marvel is on a boat tour. These tours typically last 4 to 5 hours, starting from the northern entrance at Culebra Cut, passing through the Pedro Miguel locks, and finally reaching Miraflores, which will take you to the Pacific Ocean. It's an adventure!

8. Taste Panamanian cuisine

Don’t miss out on some of Panama's beloved dishes: carimañolas, arroz con pollo, plátano en tentación, sancocho, torrejitas de maíz, and chicharrón. Recommended restaurants in Panama City include Restaurante Sabroso, Restaurante La Fonda, and El Trapiche in El Cangrejo, San Francisco, or Bella Vista. Don’t forget to make a reservation at the last one and ask if they have live performances of traditional Panamanian dances.

9. Take a trip to the Emberá tribe village

Panama is one of the few Latin American countries where it’s easy to visit indigenous communities. The Emberá live in the jungle of Chagres National Park, along the Panama Canal, just minutes from the city. Besides learning about this indigenous group, you can engage in activities like visiting a waterfall, river snorkeling, traditional storytelling, painting with jagua or achiote, and bird watching.

10. Ride the Transoceanic Railroad

Take a train journey with the Panama Canal Railway Company, built in 1848. You'll enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Panama's Caribbean coast. Start at Corozal and travel to the city of Colón, Panama's second most important province. There, you can explore Panama's Congo and Afro-Antillean culture and shop tax-free at the Colón Free Zone.

11. Explore Panama's Caribbean side

Portobelo in Colón: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its port and fortifications. Learn about the history of pirates like Francis Drake and Henry Morgan, who tried to seize Spanish treasures during the colonial era. In Portobelo, you can also visit the Black Christ of Portobelo and the beaches of Isla Grande.

The stunning beaches of San Blas: This archipelago of 365 islands is home to the Guna indigenous people and is a favorite among tourists for its natural beauty.

12. Go shopping in Panama City

Panama is filled with shopping malls offering incredible deals, including Albrook Mall, the largest mall in Latin America. At Multiplaza Mall, you'll find over 500 stores, including all the world’s luxury brands. There’s also Westland and Altaplaza Mall, as well as countless boutiques throughout the city.

13. Surf at Playa Venao or Santa Catalina

If you're a professional surfer, enjoy the waves of the Pacific in Veraguas, located in the central provinces of Panama.

14. Skate on the Cinta Costera

Put on your best skates and have fun with the kids at one of Panama's main attractions. Don’t forget to try the famous raspao rojo or grape with condensed milk.

15. Bike ride in Amador

This is a perfect activity to enjoy the city, family, and ocean views. Don’t forget to stop by Isla Perico for a delicious ice cream.

16. Visit the Summit Municipal Park

This is a great activity to enjoy nature and the family while getting a view of the Panama Canal.

17. Experience Panama’s nightlife

Panama is known for its lively nightlife! Check out Calle Uruguay, Avenida Balboa, and Casco Antiguo for a night of fun. Some of the most popular spots include Piano Bar and Discoteca Furia in Bella Vista, Altabar on Calle Uruguay, Villa Ana, El Viejo Santana, Bluemoon Casacasco, and Casa Jaguar in Casco Antiguo. For rooftop views, visit Cielo Rooftop and Zipline on Avenida Balboa or Blue Moon and Salvaje in Costa del Este.

18. Visit the rooftops in Casco Antiguo

You’ll find a variety of rooftops in Casco Antiguo, offering stunning views of Panama City's skyline.

19. Enjoy live jazz and music

If you have a bohemian spirit and love discovering new artists, visit El Apartamento-Sótano in Bella Vista, Danilo’s Jazz Club in Casco Antiguo, or Piña Calavera in Casco Antiguo.

20. Go bar-hopping in Casco Antiguo or the city

Try the best creations by Panama’s mixologists, or enjoy craft beers at Istmo Brew Pub. For rum, visit Pedro Mandinga Rum Bar, and for a great atmosphere and cocktails, head to Malibú Spirits & Eatery.

21. Visit a casino

Panama is a top destination for casino lovers in Latin America. Some of the most visited casinos include Crown Casino at the Hotel El Panama, Majestic Casino at Multicentro, Sortis Casino at the Hotel Sortis, and Royal Casino at the Marriott Hotel. Besides slot machines, many casinos also offer live music. Sunday is a day of rest for many Panamanians, so don’t be surprised if you find several places closed.

22. Enjoy a good brunch

From croissants, pancakes to dim sum. We present the following proposals to you. Try dim sum at Lung Fung: Chinese food is part of the gastronomic delights of Panama, and there is no Panamanian who can resist it. Learn how the Chinese-Panamanians have mixed both cultures to develop the famous dim sum. A delicious croissant at Petit Paris: if you want to have a little Parisian spirit in Panama, be sure to come to this bakery with the best breads in Panama. When they said brunch, they said Mentiritas Blancas: Currently it is the place most visited by Panamanians to enjoy a delicious and healthy brunch. Plus, you can enjoy the best coffees because they are all professional baristas. American brunch at New York Bagels Café: Here you will find the best American breakfast in all of Panama. You will also delight in the variety of bagel flavors they offer.

23. Climb Ancón Hill

You will not regret a thing when you find yourself at the top with the beautiful landscape with panoramic views of the Bay of Panama.

24. Go to the nearest beaches

There are many beaches in both the Pacific and the Panamanian Caribbean starting just one hour from the city. If you are looking for something minutes from the city you can find two hotels in Playa Bonita in Veracruz, don't miss the opportunity to eat a delicious fried fish with patacones.

25. Visit El Valle de Anton

If you want to get away from the city to the mountains, you have El Valle de Anton in the province of Coclé, 2 hours from the city. Known as the eternal spring of Panama, you will have the opportunity to hike in India Dormida, a range of hills that resembles the silhouette of a lying woman. In El Valle de Anton you can also do other activities such as: going to the thermal wells, bathing in El Chorro de los Enamorados, ziplining in the Chorro El Macho Waterfall or visiting the Cerro de la Pintada.