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Panama FAQ

Is tipping customary in Panama?

Tipping (although not mandatory) is considered polite in Panama. Tip 10-15% in restaurants and cafes, and leave a small amount of money for porters, guides and taxi drivers.

What is the internet access like in Panama?

Travellers will be able to access the internet at cyber cafes and hotels in Panama's large cities and tourist areas. Access to the internet is generally less common in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Panama?

Mobile phone coverage is generally good in Panama's major cities, but may be less reliable in remote or rural areas. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving home if you wish to use your mobile phone.

What are the toilets like in Panama?

Panama has a combination of modern, flushable toilets (found in cities) and more modest squat toilets (found in rural areas), so prepare to encounter both while travelling in Panama.

What will it cost for a…?

Bottle of soft drink = 1 PAB
Bottle of local beer = 1.50-2 PAB
Snack at a market = 2-3 PAB
Lunch at a café = 5-7 PAB
Three-course dinner at a restaurant = 20 PAB

Can I drink the water in Panama?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Panama unless marked otherwise.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Panama?

Major credit cards will be accepted by large hotels, shops and restaurants in the cities of Panama, but less so in rural and less developed areas. Be sure to carry other modes of payment just to be sure.

What is ATM access like in Panama?

Panama's major cities and tourist-orientated towns have ATMs readily available. It's advisable, however, to withdraw cash before leaving the city as ATMs may not always be available in regional areas.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Panama?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Panama?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 9 National Martyrs' Day
Mar 29 Good Friday
May 1 Labour Day
Aug 15 Old Panama City Day (Panama City only)
Nov 3 Independence Day (from Colombia)
Nov 5 Independence Day (Colon City only)
Nov 10 First Call for Independence from Spain
Dec 2 Independence Day (from Spain)
Dec 8 Mother's Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Panama/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Panama?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • PANAMA:
    Australia: Yes - on arrival
    Belgium: Not required
    Canada: Yes - on arrival
    Germany: Not required
    Ireland: Not required
    Netherlands: Not required
    New Zealand: Yes - on arrival
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Not required
    United Kingdom: Not required
    USA: Yes - on arrival

    The cost of a tourist card on arrival varies by nationality.

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Panama at a glance

  • 19
  • Panama City (population 450,000)
  • 3.4 million
  • Spanish
  • USD
  • (GMT-05:00) Bogota, Lima, Quito, Rio Branco
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)
  • +507

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