Why Panama is a Paradise

Over the last decade Panama has rapidly evolved into a popular touristic destination in Central America. See below some of the reasons why Panama is the top touristic destination that everyone is talking about.

Location

Panama is located in the middle of the American continent. Through the east lies Colombia and through the west Costa Rica. It forms a natural isthmian bridge, 80 kilometers in its narrowest part, that joins the Atlantic Ocean in the north with the Pacific Ocean in the south.

Climate

It is a 100% tropical with temperatures around 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit (about 25 - 30 degrees Celsius). There are two seasons: the dry season with a bright sun from December to April and the rainy season from May to November.

Good News!!! Panama is not affected by tropical hurricanes.

Languages

Spanish is the official language but most Panamanians speak English fluently.

Currency and Banking

The currency is the Balboa which has the same value as the U.S. dollar. The U.S. dollar is legal tender in Panama by a 1904 agreement between the two countries. Therefore Panama does not print bank notes but only mints its own coins. Panamanian coins are 50c, 25c, 10c, 5c and one cent.

Visa American Express, Master Card and Diners Club credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and commercial establishments.

Entry and Exit Requirements

Panamanian Immigration has waived visa requirement for many countries. Check with us or the Panamanian Consulate in your country of residence and you may discover that a visa is no longer needed.

In most cases a tourist card is sufficient and can be bought before boarding the plane at the airline ticket counter or at the Immigration Office at Tocumen International Airport after you have arrived in Panama. Tourist Cards are valid for 30 days however you can get a two-month extension at the Immigration and Naturalization Head Office in Panama City, if you submit a request 7 days before the first 30 days have expired. Check with us or the Panamanian Consulate in your contry of residence.

All tourists must pay an exit tax of US$20.00.

Clothing

Bring light clothes. Panamanians are very casual most of the time but a light suit is worn for business and for visit to government authorities. Never forget to include a bathing suit when packing your suitcase. Sun glasses are recommended as well as sunscreen lotion for protection against sunburn.

If you visit the highlands of Chiriqui Province, bring a light sweater or jacket since it can be a little chilly in the evening and early morning. Good walking shoes are necessary for your excursions.