FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Panama
For centuries, Panama has been a crossroads for humanity… a meeting point for people, goods, and ideas. Our website is a fantastic resource to learn more about the country and what it has to offer. Read about our breathtaking attractions, places you’ll want to visit, and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Historians and city-dwellers alike can find something to marvel at during their visit. Take part in Caribbean living in Bocas del Toro, absorb nature’s freshness in Cocle, or learn about pirates in Colon.
Foodies, you are not forgotten. Our diverse gastronomy has earned us a UNESCO Creative City in Gastronomy designation and will delight your taste buds no matter where you go. Influenced by our African, Spanish and Native roots, our cuisine is like no other! For some of the best restaurants in Panama City, head to UNESCO World Heritage site, Casco Antiguo.
Whether you want to explore the capital or enjoy the charms of the Herrera province, Panama offers the perfect places to stay and eat during your journey.
For more info visit:
https://www.tourismpanama.com/plan-your-vacation/
Things to do
Panama finds itself not only at the crossroads between North and South America, but also between fast-paced cosmopolitan life and traditional earth-centered cultures, modernity and history, sun-drenched terrain and mysterious rainforest, science and nature, and exhilaration and serenity. It's a unique country that rewards exploration, bringing together countless sights and sensations—all within 30,000 square miles: an area roughly equivalent to that of South Carolina. Things to do in Panama offer the perfect immersive adventure.
To view more visit:
https://www.tourismpanama.com/things-to-do/
Safety Guidelines
Panama is open to international travelers, keeping the safety and health of tourists and locals our top priority.
Visitors from all countries are welcome to visit Panama, however, non-vaccinated travelers or travelers with less than 2 (two) doses will have to present a negative COVID-19 test for entry. For more information on entry and testing requirements, refer to the Prior to Traveling Tab.
For more info visit:
https://www.tourismpanama.com/plan-your-vacation/advisories/
Vaccination for Tourist
- Travelers will not have to present a negative COVID-19 test for entry if they can provide physical or digital proof of at least 2 (two) doses or complete vaccination scheme endorsed by the WHO, EMA and FDA, equal to or greater than 14 days after the last dose.
- Non-vaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test taken no more than 72 hours prior to their arrival time in Panama.
- If a test is not possible within that time frame, a COVID-19 rapid test will be mandated at the airport and the traveller will have to cover the costs of said test (USD $50).
- If the results are positive, the traveller will be placed under a mandatory 14-day quarantine in a hotel. The cost of the stay must be fully covered by the traveller.
- Any child or person under 17 years will not have to present a negative COVID-19 test or vaccination record if they are accompanied by an adult when entering Panama.
- ALL travellers are required to present their completed Electronic Health Affidavit (in physical or digital form) to their airline or carrier BEFORE boarding to Panama. Register and fill out yourHealth Affidavit
Visa Requirements
Application for Online Visa for Countries Where Consular Presence Does Not Exist.
For foreign nationalities that require a stamped or authorized visa in which in their country of origin or residence there is NO CONSULAR PRESENCE of the Republic of Panama, please enter the following link to apply for the Tourism Visa online: http://200.46.78.87/SIVA/idiomas.html
Language
Spanish / English
Spanish is the official language of Panama and is spoken by most of the people.
English is also widely spoken in Panama by about 14 percent of the population. Some people speak along the Caribbean coast, and in Panama City, where the dialect uses a mixture of Spanish and English words, although many people there are also bilingual.
Local Currency
US Dollars
PANAMA WAS THE FIRST LATIN AMERICAN COUNTRY TO ADOPT THE U.S. CURRENCY AS ITS OWN.
Panama adopted the U.S. dollar as its official currency in 1904 following its independence from Colombia and the agreement to build the Canal in the country.
Panamanian Consulates abroad
See the following link for contact information of the following Consulates: https://www.mire.gob.pa/index.php/en/panama-en-el-exterior
Airport
Panama City Tocumen International Airport is the major international airport serving the Panama's capital - Panama City. The airport was established in 1947, and serves as a major hub for flights heading to and from the Caribbean, South America, North America and Central America.
Home of the Tocumen International Airport, Panama City is the gateway to the country for international travellers.
Nightlife
Panama’s nightlife mainly takes place in two sectors of the city: the Business District in Downtown and amid the Spanish colonial buildings of Casco Antiguo, which is by far the most popular nightlife destination, and Panama.
Cuisine
Panama City has been a UNESCO Creative City in Gastronomy since 2017, and for good reason. Foodie or not, you’ll want to experience the uniquely Panamanian cuisine, comprising flavors, dishes and ingredients from Panama’s African, Spanish and Native influences. For some of the best restaurants in the city, head to UNESCO World Heritage site, Casco Antiguo. This is where the country’s traditions collide to give you the best of Panamanian cuisine made by world-class chefs.
https://www.tourismpanama.com/things-to-do/gastronomy-and-cuisine/
For your safe return
- We encourage all travellers to check travel restrictions of your destination country and airport.
- COVID-19 testing is available for Departing Passengers from Tocumen International Airport.
- The center is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- The cost of the COVID-19 rapid test is $50.00 USD and the result takes around 40 minutes.
- The service is first come, first serve, so we encourage all passengers that want to get tested to arrive with enough time before their flight.