Panama
Travel Guide

Central America + Caribbean - Panama - Panama

Panama is a small country in Central America which is highly influenced by other cultures. Many say it is a melting pot of cultures and this is reflected in the gastronomy, architecture and traditions of its towns and cities. Panama is the southernmost country of Central America, one of its most important wonders is the Panama Canal, a waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific and serves as a shortcut... to exchange goods around the planet. Panama has almost 4 million people; its locals are very proud of their roots and their people. Panamanians are cheerful, hospitable and very energetic –especially when speaking- and dislike people bad mouthing their country. The capital of Panama is Panama City, but it is not the original capital. A few years ago the big city was located in what is known today as "Panama la Vieja" (‘Panama the Old’), but a fire during colonial times forced the capital city to change. The country is a natural paradise in all its facets: the beaches, the inland areas and also culturally. The vegetation is lush, the waters are crystal clear and the intellectual, entrepreneurial and artistic movement is booming. Surely it is one of the countries that has more holidays and in almost all of them you will find the rhythm of rumba and reggae, along with the quintessential Panama hat on most tables while they prepare a rice dish or a Panamanian sancocho. Although the country is heavily influenced by North America -most do not like to express that fact-, people have maintained their traditions and backgrounds and they are always open to talk about their country to anyone who asks them.
Panama is a dreamland, a corner of the world where there is so much to explore. You will need a lot of time to see, explore and repeat everything.

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Panama Overview

Language

The official language of Panama is Spanish, but a large portion of the population also speak English. These two languages are the most widely spoken, however 19 other languages are also spoken across the country.

Weather

Panama can be divided into two different climates: that of the Pacific Ocean and of the Caribbean Sea. In the Caribbean Sea zone it rains much more than in the Pacific sea one, regular precipitations are usual throughout the year. The driest season sets between the months of December and April, especially in the area that connects with the Pacific. Still, Panama is a sunny country and the temperatures are mild and remain fairly stable throughout the year with an average temperature of 29 °C (84.2Fº) degrees. In the country’s coldest areas, you do not need any special winter equipment.

Money

Balboa (PAB) and US dollar (USD). The official currency is the Balboa, but since the early nineteenth century its value goes hand in hand with the US dollar. The conversion between the two currencies is very easy even if you have another currency. In the cities and larger towns there are many ATMs and banks. It is best to travel with some cash to cover initial expenses while you look for the best place to exchange your currency. Credit cards are accepted in almost all the city’s businesses, but this system does not work as good in smaller towns. In restaurants you have to check if the tip is included, and if not, you have to add an extra 10%, approximately, on top of the bill’s amount. It is highly recommended that you tip taxi drivers, especially at night.

When to go

Panama is a great destination to visit at any time throughout the year, because it has a tropical climate, although it is preferable to plan a trip during the dry season –late December to April-. During these months less precipitations are recorded, especially in the Pacific coast. Even so, Panama still has very stable temperatures throughout the year: not too hot and not too cold.

Days

A 5 day minimum. Panama City has very interesting places like the Casco Viejo or the Panama Canal. We recommend that you spend a night and two whole days in the city and then to travel to other parts of the country. Panama has very beautiful and interesting places to visit.

Surroundings

Cerro Punta (small rural towns in the inland)
Chitre (city)
Contadora Island (island near Panama City)
Darien National Park (natural park)
Cangilones de Gualaca (natural spa)

Store Hours

Most shops open at 08.00 and close around 17.00, but there are businesses that close later. Many of the supermarkets of large cities have very long working hours. Some are open 24 hours a day. In Panama it is usual to work 6 days a week and Sunday is the only holiday each week.