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Panama

🇵🇦Panama

Central America· Updated 06/03/2026

Information

Capital

Panama City

Population

4,580,000

Currency

Panamanian Balboa (PAB B/.)

Languages

Español, Inglés

Continent

Central America

Calling code

+507

Timezone

America/Panama

Area

75,420 km²

Government

Presidential Republic

National day

November 3 - Independence Day

Internet domain

.pa

About

Panama is a Central American country located on the isthmus connecting North and South America. It is globally known for the Panama Canal, a strategic waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The country has a diversified economy with an important financial sector and a multicultural population.

Safety

Risk level :Moderate to high risk in certain areas. Panama recorded 12 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023. Major tourist areas are generally safe, but some neighborhoods in Panama City and border zones pose higher risks.

Risk areas

Colón - High crime, drug traffickingDarién - Drug trafficking, criminal activities, unstable border zoneCertain neighborhoods of Panama City - Crime, armed robberies

Crime(Medium)

  • Avoid nighttime travel outside tourist areas
  • Do not display signs of wealth (jewelry, expensive electronics)
  • Use official taxis or trusted transport services
  • Remain vigilant in shopping areas and public transportation

Terrorism(Low)

  • No major terrorist threat identified
  • Stay informed about local news

Transport

  • Use official taxis with meters or authorized transport services
  • Avoid public transportation late at night
  • Follow traffic rules

Natural risks(Moderate risks including earthquakes, tropical storms, and seasonal floods)

  • Familiarize yourself with evacuation procedures in case of an earthquake
  • Follow weather alerts during storm season (May to November)
  • Have an emergency plan and reserves of water and food

Health(Adequate healthcare system in urban areas. Panama is committed to increasing healthcare spending by over 11 million dollars. Private medical facilities are of good quality in Panama City.)

  • Yellow fever vaccination recommended
  • Prevention against dengue and Zika (use mosquito repellents)
  • Obtain international health insurance
  • Consult a doctor before travel for recommended vaccinations
  • Tap water generally safe in main urban areas

Practical tips

  • Register your contact details with your embassy
  • Keep copies of important documents
  • Keep emergency numbers handy
  • Avoid protests and political gatherings
  • Respect local laws, especially regarding drugs

Cost of living

Accommodation

Studio city center1,004
1-bedroom apartment in the city center815
1-bedroom apartment in the suburb583.12
3-bedroom apartment in the city center1,500
3-bedroom apartment in the suburb1,000

Food

Inexpensive restaurant meal5
Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant20
McDonald's menu8
Local beer (0.5L)2
Cappuccino3
Water (1.5L)1
Bread (500g)1.50
Milk (1L)2
Eggs (12)2
Chicken (1kg)6
Apples (1kg)3
Bananas (1kg)1

Transport

Public transport ticket0.25
Monthly transport subscription30
Taxi ride (start)2
Taxi (1km)1
Gasoline (1L)1.20

Leisure

Fitness membership (monthly)50
Tennis court (1h weekend)20
Cinema5
Theater15

Health

General practitioner consultation30
Dentist consultation40
Antibiotic medications10
Cold medications (6 days)15

Others

High-speed internet (60 Mbps+)30 USD/mois
Mobile plan (calls + 10GB)20 USD/mois
Utilities for 85m² apartment75 USD/mois
Jeans (Levis 501 or similar)40 USD
Nike sports shoes80 USD
International primary school (monthly)500 USD

Practical information

Electricity

Voltage110V
Frequency60Hz
Plug typesType A, Type B

Emergency numbers

Police104
Ambulance911
Fire department103

Practical information

Driving side

Right

Tap water

Safe in main urban areas

Tipping

10-15% at restaurants, optional but appreciated

Photos

Point de vue panoramique

Point de vue panoramique

Panama

Deyvi Darinel

Point de vue panoramique

Point de vue panoramique

Panama

Deyvi Darinel

Point de vue panoramique

Point de vue panoramique

Panama

Pavel Danilyuk

Point de vue panoramique

Point de vue panoramique

Panama

Pavel Danilyuk

Point de vue panoramique

Point de vue panoramique

Panama

Davis Sánchez

Visas