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Travelling to Panama

Travelling in Panama

  • The Panamanian currency is the Balboa, which is tied to the US dollar (US$1 = PAB1). ATM’s are widely available in Panama City and credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and upscale hotels.

    It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals on your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary; however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

  • It is customary to tip in Panama although it is by no means obligatory. Restaurant staff are accustomed to approximately 10%, which may or may not be included in the bill. Guide tips range between US$7 and US$10 per person per day, and slightly higher for naturalist guides.  Should you use a taxi during your stay, tipping is optional, but often the cost is rounded up a dollar or two, particularly for night journeys.

  • Panamanian cooking is influenced by a variety of factors. Its geographical location, literally bridging two continents means there is a wide variety of fruits and vegetables available, while its history and diverse population mean that the cuisine is influenced by African, Spanish and Native American approaches to cooking. In general though, as with a lot of Latin American cuisine, rice, maize and meat feature prominently. Flavours tend to be quite mild.

    Some typical food you may come across on your journey in Panama includes rice with shrimp and coconut milk, sweet or savoury empanadas (similar to a pasty), bollos (corn dough wrapped in plantain leaves and boiled), and ropa vieja (stewed beef and vegetables served with plantain and rice).

  • Hotels in Panama include breakfast. For other meals, an inexpensive restaurant will cost about US$7.50 per person while three courses in a mid-range restaurant costs around US$40 for two people. A local beer will cost US$1.50, and a coffee will cost US$2.58.

  • Panama City sits on the coast and as such tends to be warmer than some inland areas. The average temperature during the year is around 27 degrees Celsius, so summery weather is appropriate. Bear in mind that rain is possible throughout the year too, so packing rainwear is advisable.

    Electrical sockets in Panama are between 110 and 120 Volts. Plug sockets match the North American design.

    We recommend you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.

    Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

    You can bring whichever luggage you feel most comfortable with: suitcases, soft bags and rucksacks are fine.