DestinationsNorth AmericaPanamaLos Santos

About Los Santos

Los Santos Province in Panama's Azuero Peninsula offers authentic Panamanian culture, stunning Pacific coastlines, and vibrant traditions. Known as the 'Cradle of Panamanian Folklore,' this region hosts the country's most famous festivals, including the exuberant Carnaval de Las Tablas with its competing queens and lively parades. Travelers can explore charming colonial towns like Las Tablas and Guararé, visit the UNESCO-listed archaeological site at Cerro Juan Díaz, and relax on pristine beaches like Playa Venao and Playa Cambutal, popular with surfers. The province's rural landscapes feature traditional cattle ranches, pottery workshops in La Arena, and the distinctive pollera dresses. Nature enthusiasts can hike in the Cerro Hoya National Park, home to rare species, or witness sea turtle nesting at Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge. Los Santos provides an immersive experience into Panama's soul beyond the capital.

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Travel Tips for Los Santos

Getting Around

Public buses connect towns but schedules are irregular. Taxis are affordable; negotiate fares beforehand. Car rentals are available for exploring remote areas; 4x4 recommended for rural roads. No ride-sharing apps operate here. Colectivos (shared vans) serve common routes. Walking is feasible in town centers.

Best Time To Visit

December to April (dry season) for beach activities and festivals like Carnaval (February/March). Avoid September-October (peak rainy season) when roads may be impassable. The Festival de la Mejorana in September offers cultural immersion despite rain.

Local Customs

Conservative dress is appreciated, especially in rural areas and churches. Tipping: 10% in restaurants if service charge not included; small tips for taxis and guides. Respect religious processions and festivals. Greet people with 'Buenas.' Social norms emphasize politeness and family values. Photography during festivals requires permission for close-ups.

Safety Information

Los Santos is generally safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions: avoid isolated areas at night, secure valuables, and use licensed taxis. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas during festivals. Rural roads may be unpaved; drive cautiously during rainy season. No specific areas to avoid, but remain vigilant in less populated regions. Common scams are rare; be cautious with unofficial tour operators.

Health Information

Medical facilities are limited outside major towns; Hospital Dr. Luis 'Chicho' Fábrega in Las Tablas is the main public hospital. Private clinics exist in larger towns. Common health concerns include mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, Zika); use insect repellent. Tap water is generally safe in urban areas, but bottled water is recommended in rural regions. Recommended vaccinations: routine, Hepatitis A, Typhoid. Travel insurance is advised. Pharmacies are available in towns.

Languages Spoken

Spanish

Quick Facts

Currency

Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
B/.

Timezone

America/Panama -05:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+507

Electricity

Type A, B; 110V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

95,000

Area

3805 km²

Government

Provincial government with municipal districts

ISO Code

PA-7

About Los Santos

Things to do in Los Santos

Teide-Icod-Garachico-Masca (Most popular bus tour in Tenerife)

Mt. Teide and Masca Valley Tour in Tenerife

Paragliding Tandem

La Gomera Day Trip from Tenerife

Teide 1/2 Day

Island Tour Candelaria, La Orotava, La Laguna, Garachico, Masca

La Gomera Island Tour