Is Panama Safe to Travel Alone? A Beginner's Guide to Safe Solo Traveling in Panama City
Short answer: YES! Panama is listed as National Geographic's "Best of the World" 2024
Long answer: Reading the information and tips below, you'll be more prepared for your trip than most first-time travelers.
Panama City, the capital of Panama, is a fascinating city that boasts impressive architectural marvels, engineering prowess, and rich biodiversity. Panama is a safe place that has become a great destination for travelers worldwide.
For first-time solo female travelers, exploring a new city can be both thrilling and daunting. With the right preparations and mindset, Panama City can be one of the safest cities to choose as your travel destination.
Here are some valuable travel tips and insights on the best ways to navigate Panama City safely, while enjoying all this city has to offer.
Understanding nuances about Panama City
The Basic Essentials for Panama City: Language, Currency, Weather, When to Visit, Scuba Diver Insider Tips, Cultural Etiquette, Book Recommendations
Getting there and around
Choosing accommodations
Navigating the city
Staying safe, with tips specific for solo travelers
Understanding Panama City
"Leaning on a Panama City balcony overlooking the canal, watching the ships creak through, you can’t help but feel humbled by the superhuman feats this capital city has undertaken – and the lives, communities, ecosystems, and flora & fauna that were sacrificed." - Lonely Planet's Guidebook - Panama.
Panama City is a great place for a first-time traveler to a foreign country or the first time on a solo trip. The cosmopolitan capital is glitzy and busy, yet you'll still feel the laid-back, leisurely essence of the local people. The city serves as the gateway to the famous Panama Canal and an easy launchpad to the surrounding luscious rainforest reserves and beautiful beaches. The city’s diverse culture reflects indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences, making it a hidden gem to explore. There are ATMs, restaurants, pharmacies, shops, and taxis just about everywhere in the city.
The Essentials
Language: Spanish, but many people in the city speak English
Currency: US Dollar/ Panamanian Balboa
Weather: Tropical Temperatures fluctuate between 70*F to 90*F year-round and humidity hovers around 80%.
Neighboring Costa Rica and relatively close to the equator, Panama has two seasons: dry season and rainy season.
Dry Season: January - April
Wetter Season: May - December
When to visit:
Panama is a year-round travel destination.
Your interest and desired activity will determine when to go.
Dry Season: January - April
Wetter Season: May - December
Most visitors come during the December- May "dry season" and hotels tend to fill up for Christmas and Easter.
Crowds dwindle after Easter and hotel rates drop during "peak" rainy season in September and October.
Scuba Divers:
The Caribbean coast's best diving conditions are between August and November, tho March and April can also be good for diving.
The Gulf of Panama has better visibility from June - December but the trade winds make the sea progressively colder and murkier from Dec-May. Those winds have less of an impact on the Gulf of Chiriquí and Isla de Coiba, where the best diving is from December to July
September during the wetter season is also the best opportunity for whale watching.
Humpback sightings, minke whales, sperm whales, orcas, and blue whales can be spotted. Whale sharks, among other shark species, may also be on display.
My tour guide told me that the dry season is the most crowded, but it's also windier during that time, so it's not the best condition for scuba diving. It all depends on where you plan to go diving.
Cultural Etiquette
Understanding local customs and etiquette can enhance your experience in Panama City:
Language: The official language is Spanish, and while many people speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way.
Dress Code: Panama is generally casual, but dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in religious sites. Dressing up for fine-dining restaurants is expected, but not enforced.
Tipping: Tipping is customary; around 10% is standard in restaurants. For other services, rounding up or leaving small changes is common.
Book Recommendations:
A.H. Cunningham - "Out of Office"
Kaysha Corinealdi - "Panama in Black: Afro-Caribbean World Making in the Twentieth Century"
Veronica Chambers - "Mama's Girl"
Additional Reading Lists:
https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/177080.Panamanian_Authors
As an avid reader and traveler, I like to read novels and guidebooks after my trip. It helps with the travel depression and lets me linger in nostalgia for that much longer.
Getting There
Game Changer Travel Tip:
I used Holafly International eSim to purchase a 5-day unlimited data pass. No need to connect to spotty, public WiFi. This was a game-changer for me. Having phone access to communicate with my Airbnb host, book Uber rides, and access Google Maps eased the most anxious aspects of traveling.
I paid USD 27 for 5 days of Unlimited Data.
Holafly international eSim - Get a 5% discount with my code: http://rwrd.io/vvvq7bh HolaFly Discount Code
From the airport, you can take a taxi, Uber, or public transportation system to reach your accommodation. I was so thankful that Uber was available because it alleviated so much travel stress about directions and safety. Instead, I was able to gawk at the city skyline and enjoy the sights.
Uber Ride from the airport to the city September 2024
Entry Requirements:
All travelers arriving in Panama may be required to show an onward ticket, accommodation reservations, and proof of funds.
Enforcement is less common in airports but is more common at land borders.
This website gives specific details: https://www.tocumenpanama.aero/index.php/requisitos-para-la-entrada-a-panama
Tho, I was not asked any of these questions. (I was only visiting for 4 days)
Declaration form: This can be filled out online before arrival. It will email you a QR code that you need to show at customs before exiting the airport.
https://declaraciondeviajero.ana.gob.pa/
Air Travel:
Flying into Panama City is straightforward, with Tocumen International Airport (PTY) where all international flights land. It's 16 miles northeast of Panama City.
Copa Airlines, a United Airlines partner and with other star alliance partners, is Panama's flagship carrier. It operates flights from many major cities like Chicago, Las Vegas, Denver, Miami, Boston, Washington DC - Dulles, San Francisco, Raleigh, Baltimore, New York, Chicago, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Austin.
You can also stop in Panama for a few days with Copa Airline's "Stopover" program.
You can enjoy Panama on your outbound or returning flight with 'Stopover' at no additional airfare if you're on your way to South America. This stop can last from 24 hours up to 6 nights / 7 days. There are terms and conditions so be sure to read the fine print.
Choosing Accommodation
Throughout Panama, you can find luxury American brand resorts, Bed and Breakfasts, Hostals, and Airbnbs.
Selecting the right accommodation can significantly impact your safety and comfort. Here are some recommendations for safe neighborhoods:
Casco Viejo: This historic district is not only beautiful but also well-policed, with friendly locals and plenty of dining options. I often saw body armored police while walking around the area.
Obarrio: A modern area known for its business district, featuring upscale hotels that are generally safe for tourists.
Balboa Avenue: Offers stunning ocean views and easy access to attractions, making it ideal for solo travelers.
When booking, look for accommodations with good reviews, especially regarding safety and security.
Additionally, consider checking if your accommodation has 24-hour reception and security measures.
I booked a private room on Airbnb with a female host. It was a nice sense of security knowing that there was someone in the country that I could contact if there was a dire need.
Navigating the City
Panama City has a variety of transportation options:
Metro: The metro system is safe, clean, and inexpensive, covering key areas of the city.
Buses: While economical, they can be confusing due to a lack of signage in English. Consider downloading offline Google Maps and having screenshots if you don't have access to WiFi or a mobile phone connection.
Taxis and Rideshares: Stick to licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber for convenience and safety. Always check that the driver’s ID matches the app.
Download offline maps or screenshot directions from Google Maps, if you don't have WiFi or mobile connectivity.
I used Uber the entire time I was there and tho they're not the same low prices as Viet Nam, the prices for rides around the city averaged about $ 5-7 USD.
Staying Safe
IMO: While Panama is nicknamed the "Manhattan of Central America," it’s essential to stay alert to avoid potential "crimes of opportunity" such as petty crime and scams. I also don't believe in "common sense". I believe in " common knowledge". No human gets it right every single time. Humans are inherently flawed and consistently make mistakes. So remember that things and material stuff can be replaced. If it does happen, don't let it ruin your entire trip.
Reading, researching, and gaining knowledge before traveling to stay safe will prepare you for any tourist destination in Latin American countries and beyond.
While Panama City is generally safe for tourists, it’s a good idea to take precautions:
Be Alert of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure, and be cautious when using your phone. Don't open yourself to petty theft.
Avoid Walking Alone at Night: It's best to avoid walking alone after dark, particularly in less populated neighborhoods.
Research Local Areas: Some neighborhoods, like El Chorrera and parts of San Miguelito, have high crime rates relative to other parts of the city.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Enjoy drinks responsibly, as alcohol can impair judgment.
Tap Water is potable in most mainland areas in Panama and generally tastes pretty good, but this does not apply to all areas in Panama.
Pay with credit cards at hotels, businesses, and convenience stores. Use cash for small locally owned businesses and gratuitous tips.
Keep Copies of Documents: and store them separately from the originals. I left my passport at the Airbnb.
Safety tip: It’s best not to walk around with your phone out or in plain sight. If you rely on your phone’s GPS to get around, use headphones with voice navigation. If you need to look at a map to get around, walk into a shop or corner store to pull out your phone and view your maps. By doing these two things, you’ll look less like a tourist and avoid being a target for petty theft.
Emergency Contacts
Before traveling, have a list of emergency contacts:
National Police: 104
Ambulance: 911
Your Country's Embassy or Consulate: Keep their contact information handy.
Final Tips for Solo Travelers
Trust Your Instincts: Don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation if something feels off.
Connect with Other Travelers or Tour Guides: Consider joining travel groups or forums to meet fellow travelers. I love meeting new people when traveling to tourist destinations. Tour guides always have me in awe when they say they're genuinely passionate about tourism. I love meeting new people when traveling to tourist destinations. Tour guides always have me in awe when they say they're genuinely passionate about tourism.
Keep a Low Profile: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
Conclusion
Traveling alone in Panama City was a fulfilling adventure. Whether you're savoring local cuisine or diving into the nearby ocean, every moment can lead to discoveries...So pack your bags, trust your instincts, and embrace the thrill of solo travel in this remarkable city.
Additional resources I trust:
Official tourism board: The Panamanian Tourism Authority www.visitpanama.com
National Geographic article about a new community-based tourism initiative in Panama
Why trust me?
I traveled to Panama from August 26-30, 2024.
I’ve been traveling since 2009 and visited 25 countries, mostly in Southeast Asia and tropical places for scuba diving.
Who this is for?
This comprehensive guide is specifically designed for beginner travelers who have not yet had the opportunity to visit the beautiful country of Panama.