About Panamá
Panamá Province is the vibrant heart of Panama, where modern sophistication meets rich history and natural wonders. This dynamic region is home to Panama City, a glittering metropolis with a stunning skyline juxtaposed against the colonial charm of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelers can marvel at the engineering masterpiece of the Panama Canal, watching massive ships navigate the Miraflores Locks. Just minutes from the city, the Metropolitan Natural Park offers tropical forest hiking with incredible wildlife viewing. The province stretches along the Pacific coast to the Pearl Islands archipelago, where pristine beaches like Contadora and Saboga provide idyllic escapes. Explore the historic ruins of Panama Viejo, the original 16th-century settlement, or venture to the lush rainforests of the Chagres National Park, home to Emberá indigenous communities. From cosmopolitan dining and nightlife to ecological adventures and cultural immersion, Panamá Province delivers an unforgettable Central American experience where urban energy and natural beauty coexist seamlessly.
Things to do in Panamá
Transfer from PTY/Panama City to Cruise Terminal or Back
Panama City, Panama
From GHS 364
5.0 (49)
Day End Tour: Casco Viejo, Amador Causeway & Sabroso Panama
Panama City, Panama
From GHS 840
5.0 (46)
Kayaking Tour in the Mangroves of Chiriqui
Panama,
Transfers to RIU Playa Blanca, Buenaventura, Decameron and Bijao.
Panama City, Panama
From GHS 90
5.0 (18)
City Tour of Panama
Panama,
From GHS 784
5.0 (15)
From Riu Playa Blanca: Panama Canal, Old & New City Tour
Panama,
From GHS 728
5.0 (14)
Anton Valley Excursion: Hiking, Waterfalls, Natural Pool and Zoo
Panama City, Panama
From GHS 2,239
5.0 (8)
Tours from RIU Playa Blanca, Buenaventura and Decameron resort.
Panama,
From GHS 504
5.0 (8)
San Blas Money Heist Island Day tour - 2-islands + Natural Pool
Panama,
Macho de Monte - Canyoning
Panama,
Waterfall and hot-springs experience in Chiriqui
Panama,
From GHS 896
5.0 (2)
Gamboa Rainforest: Hike Trail, Boat Expedition & Optional Zipline
Panama City, Panama
From GHS 1,332
5.0 (2)
Casco Viejo Historic Tour: Wonders, Legends, Pirates & Marvels
Panama,
From GHS 280
5.0 (2)
San Blas Shared Cabin – 2D/1N Isla Aroma Stay + Island Hopping
Panama,
San Blas 3D/2N Private Room on Shipwreck Island + Tour & Meals
Panama,
Travel Tips for Panamá
Getting Around
Panama City has a Metro system (Lines 1 and 2) that's efficient and clean. Public buses (Metrobus) require a rechargeable card. Taxis are plentiful but often don't use meters; negotiate fares beforehand or use ride-hailing apps like Uber and InDriver, which are widely available and recommended. Car rentals are available at the airport and in the city, but driving in Panama City can be chaotic with heavy traffic. For trips to the Pearl Islands, take ferries from the Amador Causeway or flights from Albrook Airport. Local tours are excellent for visiting the Canal and rainforest areas.
Best Time To Visit
Mid-December to April (dry season) offers sunny days with minimal rainfall, ideal for city exploration and beach trips. This is peak tourist season. May to November (wet season) has daily afternoon showers but lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Major festivals include Carnival (February/March, vibrant pre-Lenten celebrations) and Panama's Independence Day (November 3-4, parades and festivities).
Local Customs
Panamanians are generally warm and polite. Greetings are important; use "buenos días/tardes/noches" and handshakes. In formal settings or when meeting elders, use titles like "Señor" or "Señora." Dress is casual but modest; beachwear is for beaches only. When visiting churches or indigenous communities, cover shoulders and knees. Tipping is customary: 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, $1-2 for bellhops, and small change for taxi drivers (though not expected). Bargaining is common in markets but not in stores. Respect local pace—things may move slower than expected ("hora panameña").
Safety Information
Panama City is relatively safe, but exercise normal precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded areas, buses, and markets. Casco Viejo is generally safe during the day but be cautious at night in less populated areas. Avoid the neighborhoods of El Chorrillo, Curundú, and parts of San Miguelito. Common scams include taxi overcharging (use Uber or ensure meters are used), fake police officers asking for documents/money (always ask for identification), and distraction thefts. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. When visiting beaches, never leave belongings unattended.
Health Information
Medical facilities in Panama City are generally good, with private hospitals like Hospital Punta Pacífica (affiliated with Johns Hopkins) offering high-quality care. Public hospitals have limited resources. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel health insurance. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Zika, dengue, and chikungunya are present; use insect repellent. Tap water in Panama City is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended elsewhere. Altitude sickness is not a concern in this province.
Languages Spoken
SpanishEnglish
Quick Facts
Currency
Panamanian Balboa (PAB)
B/.
B/.
Timezone
America/Panama -05:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+507
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
1.8 million
Area
11500 km²
Government
Provincial government headed by a Governor appointed by the President
ISO Code
8