£1 PAB 1.34
Today
11:00 pm
-5h from you
Weather in Panama
Panama
32°
Overcast
Wed
23
32
Thu
24
33
Fri
24
34
Sat
24
35
Sun
24
34
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.
Getting around Panama
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
Safety in Panama
Tips for British travellers
Panama is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Carry a copy of your passport for identification as local police may ask for it.
Be aware of pickpocketing in busy areas, on buses, and at bus stations.
Take care when swimming as beaches can have strong currents and undertows with few warnings.
It is illegal to smoke or use e-cigarettes in public places and you could receive a fine.
Drink-driving is a serious offence and even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a fine and your car being impounded.
Bonus tips:
People have been attacked after withdrawing cash, so use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres where possible.
Hiking trails may be unmarked, so consider using an experienced guide in areas like Boquete and Chiriqui.
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.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Police
104
Fire
103
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Panama
Voltage
120V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Panama uses 120V at 60Hz. Plugs are Type A and Type B. British travellers will need a plug adapter and may need a voltage converter for some devices.
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
ATMs in Panama
ATMs are available in most cities and tourist areas, but may be less common in rural areas.
Local name
Cajero automático
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are generally a reliable way to access cash in Panama. Ensure your bank card is enabled for international use and be aware of potential transaction fees.
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 data package
5 GB for 15 PAB (~£12)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, GSM
Local carriers
Más Móvil, Digicel, Claro
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.
Health & vaccinations 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.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
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.
Calling Panama
Country code
+507
To call Panama from the UK, dial 00 507 followed by the local number.
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.
UK Embassy in Panama
British Embassy Panama City
Worldwide Plaza, Piso 14, Calle 50, Panama City
Airport in Panama
Frequently asked questions
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.