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5,278 mi away
£1 PAB 1.36
Today
5:24 am
-5h from you
Weather & climate
Weather in Panama
Panama
33°
Light drizzle
Sat
26°
33°
Sun
26°
33°
Mon
25°
30°
Tue
24°
30°
Wed
24°
29°
Thu
24°
29°
Fri
25°
30°
SPF level in Panama
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Panama
What British travellers need to know
You can visit Panama for up to 3 months without a visa if you arrive by land or air.
Your passport must have an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave Panama and at least one blank page.
You must show a return or onward ticket, particularly if you arrive by land from Costa Rica and are not a legal resident of Costa Rica.
You must prove you have at least 1000 US dollars (or the same amount in other currencies) or a credit card at border control.
You must complete an immigration and customs declaration form, with the digital form recommended before you travel.
Good to know:
If you are arriving from a country listed as a yellow fever transmission risk, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a yellow fever vaccination.
There is a departure charge of 40 US dollars, which is usually included in the price of your airline ticket.
Safety in Panama
Tips when travelling
Panama is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Carry ID such as a passport as the police will usually accept a printed copy.
Avoid pickpocketing in busy areas, on buses and at bus stations by not carrying large amounts of money or valuables.
Use an ATM inside a bank or shopping centre as people have been attacked after withdrawing cash from ATMs.
Do not smoke or use e-cigarettes in public places as you could be fined 25 to 100 US dollars.
Take care when swimming on beaches as some have strong currents and undertows and people drown every year.
Bonus tips:
Be wary of visitors approaching you to get access to your accommodation as criminal gangs have used this method to commit burglaries.
If you are the victim of a crime, report it before you leave the country otherwise the police may not investigate.
Stay connected on your trip
More information
Driving in Panama
A valid UK driving license is accepted for short-term visits. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Panama drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Health in Panama
Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation. Check that it covers all activities you plan to do. You will be expected to pay up-front for treatment, so ensure your insurance covers this, or you have access to sufficient funds.
No vaccinations required
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date health advice and recommended vaccinations for Panama. Dengue fever, Zika virus, and malaria are present in some areas. Use mosquito repellent, especially at dawn and dusk, and consider wearing long sleeves and trousers. Tap water is generally not safe to drink; drink bottled water instead.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. However, smaller establishments may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
Tipping in Panama
Tipping is not always expected but is appreciated in Panama for good service. A service charge is sometimes included in restaurant bills, so check before tipping.
Restaurant
10-15% if service is not included
Bar/Café
10-15%
Taxi
Round up the fare
Hotel Porter
1 PAB per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
1-2 PAB per night
Tour Guide
5-10 PAB per person
Mobile & roaming
UK mobile users will not benefit from EU roaming agreements post-Brexit. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Panama. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper rates.
Local SIM
5 GB for 15 PAB (~£12)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, GSM
Electrical in Panama
Voltage
120V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, particularly in urban and tourist areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Internet access is generally available in Panama's populated areas, although speed and reliability can vary. Many hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi to customers.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Police
104
Fire
103
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Panama
Country code
+507
To call the British Embassy in Panama City from the UK, you would dial 00 507 207 7000.
The country code for Panama is 507. When calling Panama from abroad, dial the exit code of your country (00 in the UK), followed by 507, and then the local number.
Languages in Panama
UK Embassy
British Embassy Panama City
Worldwide Plaza, Piso 14, Calle 50, Panama City
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Airports in Panama
Beaches in Panama
Frequently asked questions
British citizens can enter Panama without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 180 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Panama is generally a safe country for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in urban areas. Be vigilant with your belongings, avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and use reputable transportation services. Some areas near the Colombian border can be dangerous; check travel advisories before your trip.
The dry season, from mid-December to April, is generally considered the best time to visit Panama. During this time, you can expect sunny weather and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's beaches and rainforests. The rainy season is from May to November.
The official currency of Panama is the Balboa (PAB), but the US dollar (USD) is widely accepted and used interchangeably. Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas.
Panama offers a diverse range of attractions, including the Panama Canal, Casco Viejo (the historic district of Panama City), Bocas del Toro (an archipelago known for its beaches and nightlife), and the San Blas Islands (home to the indigenous Kuna people). Also worth visiting is Boquete, a mountain town known for its coffee plantations and hiking trails.
Be wary of unofficial taxi drivers offering unsolicited rides, and always agree on a fare beforehand. Avoid displaying expensive jewellery or electronics in public. Be cautious of overly friendly individuals offering assistance, as they may be trying to distract you while an accomplice steals your belongings. Always use ATMs inside banks to avoid card skimming.
Panama is a relatively casual country, but dressing respectfully is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites. Lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. When visiting beaches or resorts, swimwear is acceptable, but it's best to cover up when away from these areas. For formal occasions or upscale restaurants, smart casual attire is appropriate.
While street food can be a great way to experience local culture, it's essential to exercise caution. Choose vendors that appear clean and have a high turnover of customers. Ensure the food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. If unsure, it's best to stick to established restaurants and eateries.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.