Panama travel details
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Panama has a population of 4M with main currency as Panamanian Balboa. The languages spoken are Spanish. Panama travel safety advice is Exercise a high degree of caution. Automatic teller machines are very common in Panama. Tipping is usually not expected in Panama. Internet speed in Panama is on average 3.8 Mbps.In Panama you drive on the right side.
Panama travel advice
⬤ Exercise a high degree of caution
Protests are causing significant disruption to essential services, including transport and food. Protests can turn violent and may disrupt your travel plans. Crime levels are high in Panama. Take care of your belongings, especially in transport hubs. Pay attention to your personal security in crowded areas and don't go out alone (see 'Safety').
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Panama overall due to the threat of violent crime.
Higher levels apply in some areas.
Issue Date : Nov 27, 2023
Panama weather
Panama essential details
Plugs
Panama uses 120V, 60Hz with sockets and plugs Type A and Type B.
Languages
The languages that are typically spoken are Spanish
Money in Panama
Currencies
Panama uses the United States dollar (symbol: $), code USD.Banknotes come in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 dollars. Dollar is subdivided into 100 cents. Coins come in denominations of 1 dollar and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.
ATM
Automatic teller machines are very common in Panama. You can find them in both large & small cities, tourist areas etc.You do not need a chip & PIN card to use an ATM — your standard magnetic card will work fine.
Tipping
Not expected, but can leave extra tip Tipping is usually not expected in Panama. However, if you are satisfied with the service provided you can show your appreciation by leaving a small ‘extra’ tip.
Internet in Panama
Internet
Internet speed in Panama is on average 3.8 Mbps. WiFi coverage in Panama is moderate. It's relatively easy to find one when needed.
Phones
You can buy a SIM card for about $19.95, which includes 1 GB of data plan. You can choose from 4 telecoms: +móvil (by Cables & Wireless), Claro, Digicel or Movistar. Panama uses GSM mobile networks GSM 850, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900. If you don't want to buy SIM card in Panama upon arrival, make sure to check the roaming charges with your telecom provider before your departure so there are no surprises when you return home.
Calling
To call Panama, dial +, then 507 (the country code for Panama), then the area code and the local number. For local calls within Panama, start with the area code. In the case above area code is 7 .
Panama travel details
Driving in Panama
Road rules
In Panama you drive on the right side. Most cars have manual transmission (stick). Unless otherwise posted, the speed limits for cars and motorcycles are as follows: 100 km/h (62 mph) on undivided highways, 100-120 km/h (62-74 mph) on motorways, 100-120 km/h (62-74 mph) on expressways and 25-30 km/h (15-18 mph) in all built-up areas.
Emergecy
Police
911, +592-225-8196
Ambulance
913
Fire department
912, +592-226-2411
Panama map
Panama visa advice
If you're considering exploring Panama beyond the usual transit spots, our comprehensive guide on Panama transit visa offers deeper insights and broader options for travelers of different nationalities. For those transiting through other countries en route to Panama, understanding Panama Transit Visa requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth journey.