Explore
Panama with confidence using these essential do’s and don’ts.
Learn local customs, etiquette, and safety tips to travel
respectfully, avoid mistakes, and enjoy the best of Central America.
• Do greet politely — a friendly buenos días or handshake is appreciated everywhere.
• Do dress neatly in towns and cities; Panamanians take pride in appearance.
• Do carry small bills — taxis, markets, and street stalls rarely make large change.
• Do try local cuisine such as sancocho soup, ceviche, and fried plantains.
• Do tip around 10% in restaurants if not automatically added.
• Do respect the environment — Panama’s rainforests and beaches are strictly protected.
• Do learn a few Spanish words even though English is understood in tourist areas.
• Do remove hats when entering churches or public buildings.
• Do be punctual for business or formal meetings — locals value professionalism.
• Do support local artisans by buying handmade molas, baskets, and jewellery.
• Do stay hydrated and use sunscreen — the tropical sun can be intense year-round.
• Don’t litter or drop plastic — Panama enforces fines for polluting natural areas.
• Don’t wear camouflage clothing — it’s reserved for military use only.
• Don’t assume everyone speaks English — rural areas rely mostly on Spanish.
• Don’t photograph locals (especially Indigenous communities) without permission.
• Don’t discuss politics or the Canal’s history critically — it can be a sensitive topic.
• Don’t flash cash or expensive jewellery in public.
• Don’t expect exact timetables — public transport often runs on flexible “Panama time.”
• Don’t smoke in public buildings or restaurants — it’s prohibited by law.
• Don’t walk alone late at night in unfamiliar city areas.
• Don’t bargain aggressively — polite negotiation is fine in markets, but remain courteous.
• Don’t feed wildlife or handle animals in national parks.
• Panamanians are warm and polite; courtesy and personal greetings are essential.
• Family and community play a strong role in daily life.
• Spanish is the official language, but you’ll hear English, Creole, and Indigenous dialects too.
• Music and dance are integral — salsa, reggaeton, and tipico rhythms fill local festivals.
• Public affection is acceptable, but modesty is appreciated in rural or traditional areas.
• The Panama Canal is a symbol of pride; visit respectfully and learn its history.
• Sundays are often family days — some shops close early.
• Faith is important, with many Catholic celebrations and festivals year-round.
• Panamanians value personal space, yet are naturally friendly and expressive.
• A relaxed pace of life defines most regions outside Panama City — embrace it.
• Humour and good manners go a long way in conversation.
• Carry US dollars — it’s the official currency (alongside the Balboa).
• ATMs are common in cities, but rural areas are cash-based.
• Tap water is safe in most urban areas but bottled water is best in remote zones.
• Public buses (Diablos Rojos) are cheap but chaotic; use caution and confirm your route.
• Uber and licensed taxis are reliable and affordable in Panama City.
• Drive defensively — local traffic can be unpredictable.
• Wear lightweight clothing and carry a rain jacket for tropical showers.
• The dry season (Dec–Apr) is best for travel and outdoor adventures.
• Respect national parks; stay on marked trails and keep noise low.
• Mosquito repellent is essential, especially near the coast and jungle.
• Electricity uses US-style plugs (110V).
• Casco Viejo, Panama City’s old quarter, blends colonial charm with vibrant nightlife.
• Ancon Hill offers sweeping skyline views — visit early morning for cooler weather.
• The Panama Canal locks at Miraflores are best seen in the afternoon when ships pass.
• Bocas del Toro boasts turquoise water, surfing, and Afro-Caribbean culture.
• Boquete, in the highlands, is ideal for coffee lovers and cool-climate hiking.
• San Blas Islands are managed by the Guna Yala people — respect their customs and bring cash.
• Explore local markets for tropical fruit and handmade crafts.
• Snorkelling at Isla Coiba reveals some of Central America’s best marine life.
• Join a coffee tour to learn how Panama produces world-famous Geisha beans.
• Attend Carnival in Las Tablas — it’s one of Latin America’s liveliest celebrations.
• Watch sunsets along the Amador Causeway for breathtaking views of the Pacific.
• Panama is generally safe, but petty theft occurs in crowded places.
• Avoid showing valuables and keep belongings close in public areas.
• Drug possession carries heavy prison sentences.
• Traffic laws are enforced; always carry your driving licence and ID.
• Avoid protests or demonstrations — they can escalate quickly.
• Hurricane season affects the Caribbean coast (June–Nov); monitor updates.
• Always use licensed taxis and agree on fares before departure if not using apps.
• Emergency numbers: Police 104, Ambulance 103, Fire 103.
• Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is essential.
• Swimming safety: strong currents exist on both coasts — heed local advice.
• Respect Indigenous territories; entering without permission is prohibited.
• Spanish is spoken nationwide, so learn key phrases for travel ease.
• Panamanians are polite but informal — titles like Señor or Señora show respect.
• A smile and eye contact create positive first impressions.
• Avoid heated debates on politics or foreign relations.
• Locals appreciate patience — being calm earns cooperation.
• Internet coverage is reliable in cities but patchy in remote areas.
• Mobile signal is strong along major routes; buy a local SIM for convenience.
• Public Wi-Fi is available in many cafés and malls.
• Gestures and tone should stay friendly — loudness can seem rude.
• Belonging to a community matters — show genuine interest when chatting.
• Compliments about Panama’s beauty are always well-received.