Best Time to Visit

Panama is a country of two seasons only: summer (or dry season) and winter (or wet season). The summer period runs between January and April and it’s normally considered the best time to visit Panama City. However, due to the constantly high temperatures (around 30°C) some may find comfort in the refreshing rainfalls of the wet season, during which hotel prices slightly decrease. It is not recommended to visit Panama City in November. Apart from being subjected to incessant rain, this month is also characterized by many national holidays, leading to overcrowding and the temporary closure of many local businesses.

Passport / Visa

Citizens of the majority of European and American (North & South) countries, as well as a number of countries in Asia & Africa, do not require a visa to enter Panama for up to three months, provided they hold a passport valid for at least 3 months from the date of entry. When entering Panama by land, visitors may be asked to produce an onward ticket, as well as proof of sufficient financial resources to last their stay. One may also need to obtain a tourist card on arrival; fees may be included in the flight ticket. Note that export of any goods made from endangered species is strictly prohibited, and punishable by law. Immigration requirements are subject to change, so please familiarize yourself with the latest updates prior to travel.

Airport

Tocumen International Airport (IATA code: PTY) is located 24 km from downtown Panama City, approximately 20 minute by car. Official taxi services are readily available just outside the terminal on the ground floor. These taxis are the only taxi service authorised to pick up passengers at the airport. Should you decide to share the ride, the fee will be lower depending on the number of passengers. Several car rental companies offer their services. Many hotels offer shuttle services and you can also choose to be picked up by a tour operator or private transportation service of your choice. Phone : +507 238-2700 Email : www.tocumenpanama.aero Marcos A. Gelaber Airport (Albrook Airport; IATA code: PAC) is located 1.5 km west of downtown Panama City, offering daily local flights within Panama and international flights to Costa Rica and Medellin, Colombia. Phone : +507 501 9800 Email : www.aeronautica.gob.pa

• Web:

  www.tocumenpanama.aero

• Address:

  Avenida Domingo Díaz, Panama City

• Phone:

  +507 238 2700

Public Transport

Metrobus: The Metrobus network is a reliable and affordable way to travel within Panama City. To take the Metrobus you must acquire the corresponding card, sold at grocery stores and pharmacies. Buses stop approximately every 15 minutes and bus stops are identified by an orange Metro Bus sign. Remember to swipe your Metrobus Card when entering and to push the red button in order to ask the driver to stop. Phone : +507 800 9393 Email : www.mibus.com.pa Metro: Panama has a new and reliable metro system, inaugurated in 2014. At present, there's only one line but a second is on its way. Metro cards are sold at the metro stations. The Metro operates seven days a week and 365 days a year: Monday-Friday 05:00h-23:00h, Saturday 05:00h-22:00h, Sunday and holidays 07:00h-22:00h. Relevant line stations for tourists are Albrook, Iglesia del Carmen and Via Argentina. Phone : +507 5047200 Email : www.elmetrodepanama.com

• Web:

  www.mibus.com.pa, www.elmetrodepanama.com

• Phone:

  +507 8009393, +507 5047200

Taxi

In Panama, all licensed taxis should be yellow and their licence number should be visible on both side doors. Taxis in Panama City are quite cheap, but there are some things to should be aware of: - taxis are not metered , fares are set by the authorities and change based on the area you are going to/coming from, on the number of people in the car, time of the day and more. However, fares usually range from a minimum of $1.25 to a maximum of $5. - drivers tend to overcharge tourists, especially if they don't speak Spanish. - drivers can pick other passengers up while reaching your destination. - drivers do not expect tips. Good to know: Taxi fare from Tocumen International Airport to Panama City should be around $30.00. Taxi fare from the city center to the Amador Causeway should be around $5 - $10.

• Phone:

  +507 236 7848

Electricity

110 volts, 60 Hz Standard two pin plugs