Panama Travel Checklist: How to Prepare For My Panama Vacation 

FAQ’s about Panama Tourism and other Panama Travel Advice before you visit Panama

Traveling to Panama? If you are a lover of exploration, culture, food, and all of the other life changing experiences that come with travel, then this may be the adventure you’ve been looking for. Nestled between North and South America, you’ll find 7 countries that together make up one of the most fascinating and underrated regions of the world, Central America. If you interested in exploring this corner of the world, we highly recommend traveling to Panama. 

When it comes to visiting a foreign country, you will always have questions about what you need to prepare and what essentials you should bring. If you’re interested in a Panama vacation, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions and travel advice to help you create your Panama travel checklist and your dream vacation in Panama.

What do I need to enter/exit Panama? 

First off, all tourists that are visiting Panama must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 3 months after arrival date. Additionally, you must have proof of a return or onward ticket that proves that you plan to leave the country within the allowed 180 days. If you are planning to stay within the country for longer than 180 days, we suggest purchasing a low-cost bus ticket leaving Panama prior to that date to avoid any problems at the border.  You can also consider a shuttle from Bocas Del Toro to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica as an economical option. 

Immigration is significantly stricter if you are arriving by land or sea than by air. Be prepared. You also must show a return ticket to your country of residence, even if that is not your next destination. If crossing by land, you will need to have your documents printed as they do not accept documents on your smart devices. 

To see a list of nationalities that require a visa and/or tourist card to enter the country click here. Tourists from Canada, the U.S. and Europe do not require a visa, but to require the $5.00 US tourist card. 

Should I be getting any vaccines or bringing any medications? Is it safe to drink the water in Panama? 

Vaccinations are not required in Panama. However if you want to be 100% sure your vacation in Panama goes off without a hitch, then you may want to get vaccinated in advance. Depending on the area of Panama that you’ll be visiting, particularly rural areas, it’s recommended that you get immunization against things like Malaria or Dengue. Common vaccinations that most people have already received are recommended too. However, it is always recommended that you check updated information with your country’s health authority 4 – 6 weeks prior to travel. 

The same goes for the water, it depends on the region that you are visiting. In Boquete for example, the water is fantastic drinking quality and is straight from the mountains. Water from the tap is safe in Panama City as well. However, in Bocas Del Toro it is most definitely not recommended to drink the water straight from the tap. In general though, most places on the mainland have safe drinking water. 

When is the best time to visit Panama? 

Panama has a beautiful tropical climate that makes it a great spot for a warm beach vacation. However, it does have a hot and humid rainy season through the months of May to December. During is dry season from January to May, Panama tourism is at its peak! This time of year the climate in Panama is amazing.  However, a visit to Panama will be unforgettable regardless of the season! The rains come and go so fast you can miss out on a torrential downpour while having lunch. 

What currency is used in Panama, and how much cash should I bring? 

Officially the currency in Panama is the Balboa, however it is a dollarized country and the US dollar is what is currently used day-to-day.  One Balboa also is composed of 100 cents, same as the dollar. There are Panamanian coins that are equal to US currency, and they even have their own $1 coin. In terms of paper money only US Dollars are used. There are multiple ATMS for cash withdrawals, and places to exchange currencies if you’re traveling from outside of the US. 

In terms of how much cash to bring, it really is up to your travel style. There will always be cheap options on eating at local restaurants from $1-$4 a meal for local street food, however there are also plenty of upscale restaurants that can range from $10 – $30 dollars a meal or higher. In fact, Panama has a spectacular selection of international cuisine. The same goes for accommodations, there are cheaper hostel options that are actually quite fun. Of course, there are definitely more expensive upscale hotels in Panama City and the surrounding metro area full of high risers for those who prefer. Paying with a credit or debit card is always a safer option than carrying tons of cash. We recommend bringing enough cash to buy souvenirs and eating out at restaurants that don’t accept plastic. 

What do I need to bring to Panama? 

Aside from a great attitude ready for a good time, it is always important to know how to pack. Packing the basics is essential, especially since the airlines all want to charge for baggage these days.  In the outlying areas you will want to be prepared or you will pay premium prices for the bare necessities. Panama City is very metropolitan, so just stick to the basics and you can pick up anything else as the need arrives. San Blas on the other hand is super remote, so you will want to bring a survivor kit with you if you are not accustomed to being without the comforts of home.

Below are the basics you should have with you when traveling anywhere in Central America.

• Comfortable walking/hiking shoes 
• Summer clothes (light layers, it is humid!!) 
• Bathing suit 
• Comfortable sandals 
• Light rain jacket with a hood or poncho
• At least one pair of long pants despite the heat
• Bug spray 
• Sunscreen and sunglasses/hat 
• A Spanish phrase book and Panama travel guide 
• ID (you need to carry ID with you at all times, a copy of your passport works too except federal zones such as waterways) 
• Camera 
• TUMS or something similar in case your stomach decides to not like something 
• Dramamine or similar types of motion sickness pills if traveling the waterways or the crazy curvy highways

We hope this has answered the majority of your important questions when it comes to vacationing in Panama. If you have questions about a particular destination or activity, just contact us directly and we will be happy to guide you. One of the best ways to explore a new country is by going on organized tours designed to show visitors the very best that they have to offer.  We invite you to learn more about the various Panama tours and activities available around the country.

Do you have some Panama vacation advice based on your own experience?  Our hope is that everyone has the best Panama vacation experience possible. Please feel free to comment below.