Info
Currency: Panamanian Balboa (PAB) and United States Dollar (USA).
Language: Spanish.
Latitude and longitude: 9°00′ N, 80°00′ W.
LGBTQ+ Laws: Same-Sex sexual activity is legal since July 29, 2008. Same-Sex marriage is not recognized; in March 2023, Panama’s Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage is not a human right and does not have to be recognized.
There are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals. Panama also lacks a gender identity law.
Please note that while same-sex sexual activity is legal, same-sex couples in Panama do not have the same legal benefits and protections as opposite-sex married couples.
President: Laurentino Cortizo
Hostels
Located in the historic Casco Viejo district, this hostel offers private rooms and dormitories with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, and a shared lounge area.
Set in a tropical paradise, this lodge features a swimming pool, on-site restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi, and offers various tours and activities such as snorkeling and hiking.
Offers an outdoor swimming pool, free breakfast, communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned rooms. It’s praised for its cleanliness and helpful staff.
Features a swimming pool, free breakfast, communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned rooms. Guests appreciate its friendly atmosphere and central location.
Provides free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, communal kitchen, and a garden area. Known for its relaxed environment and helpful staff.
Offers a co-working space, bar, swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and yoga classes. It’s popular among digital nomads and travelers seeking a vibrant social scene.
Known for its friendly staff and comfortable accommodations, this hostel offers free Wi-Fi, communal kitchen, and organizes tours to various destinations.
Features a rooftop terrace with a bar, swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned rooms. Guests enjoy its central location and social atmosphere.
When choosing a hostel, consider the location, amenities, and atmosphere that best suit your travel preferences. It’s advisable to check recent reviews and book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Hotels
Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo
Luxury hotel in the historic Casco Viejo district, offering elegant rooms and modern amenities in a beautifully restored colonial setting.
Hotel La Compañia
A blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury, located in the heart of Casco Viejo, part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
American Trade Hotel
A boutique hotel combining old-world elegance with modern design, known for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences.
Bristol Panamá
Located in the financial district, this hotel is renowned for its excellent service, refined décor, and proximity to high-end shops and restaurants.
JW Marriott Panama
A five-star hotel with spacious rooms, ocean views, an infinity pool, and multiple dining options, situated in Punta Pacifica.
Hilton Panama
Modern hotel offering stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to the financial district, shopping, and entertainment areas.
These hotels are great options for luxury and comfort while staying in Panama City.
Top Tourist Attractions
Panama Canal
An engineering marvel that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Visitors can watch large ships pass through the locks at the Miraflores Visitor Center.
Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Panama City, featuring colonial architecture, charming streets, vibrant nightlife, and cultural landmarks.
Bocas del Toro
A beautiful archipelago known for its clear waters, white sand beaches, and lively Caribbean vibe, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping.
Boquete
A picturesque town in the highlands of Chiriquí, famous for coffee tours, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures, including a hike up Volcán Barú.
San Blas Islands (Guna Yala)
A paradise of over 360 islands, known for pristine beaches and turquoise waters. It’s also home to the indigenous Guna people, offering cultural experiences.
Coiba National Park
A marine reserve and UNESCO World Heritage site, ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling with abundant marine life, including sharks, turtles, and tropical fish.
Panama Viejo
The archaeological site of the original Panama City, founded in 1519. Visitors can explore ruins and learn about the early history of the country.
Amador Causeway
A scenic stretch of land that connects three islands to the mainland. It offers great views of the Panama City skyline and is a popular spot for biking and walking.
Volcán Barú
The highest peak in Panama, where adventurous hikers can experience breathtaking views of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans on a clear day.
Biomuseo
A colorful museum designed by Frank Gehry, dedicated to Panama’s unique biodiversity and its ecological significance.
Visa
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, and most Latin American countries, can enter Panama without a visa for up to 90 days. A passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of entry is required.
If your country is not on the visa-exempt list, you may need to apply for a tourist visa. The tourist visa typically allows a stay of 30 to 90 days, depending on the visa type issued.
Requirements for Entry
- A valid passport with at least three months of validity.
- Proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to another country).
- Sufficient funds for your stay (usually at least $500).
- Hotel reservation or address where you will be staying.
Tourists wishing to stay beyond their allowed time can apply for an extension at Panama’s immigration office. Extensions are usually granted for an additional 90 days.