Everything you need to know to plan your Panama trip: entry requirements, best time to visit, currency, internal transport, safety, and cultural tips.
Visas and Entry Requirements
Panama allows visa-free entry for citizens of most European countries, the US, Canada, and many Latin American nations for up to 180 days. You will need a passport valid for at least 3 months, a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds (minimum $500 or a credit card). Upon arrival, you will receive a tourist stamp at Tocumen Airport. For longer stays or remote work, consider Panama's Digital Nomad Visa.
Keep a photo of your passport on your phone as backup. You can also carry a printed copy.
Currency and Payments
Panama uses the Balboa (PAB) and the US Dollar (USD) interchangeably — 1 PAB always equals 1 USD. You do not need to exchange currency; just bring dollars or use your card. Credit cards are accepted at most city businesses and resorts. However, carry cash for local markets, taxis, and small towns. ATMs are available in all major cities. Tips of 10-15% are customary at restaurants.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Panama has tropical weather year-round with temperatures between 27-33°C (80-91°F). The dry season (December-April) is ideal for beach and outdoor activities. The rainy season (May-November) brings afternoon showers but greener nature and lower prices. The Caribbean coast (Portobelo, San Blas) can receive rain anytime. The Pacific coast (Buenaventura, Coronado) has a more defined dry season. For whale watching, visit between July and October.
The "veranillo de San Juan" (July-August) offers a mini dry spell within the rainy season — perfect for finding low prices with good weather.
Transport: Getting Around Panama
From Tocumen Airport, a taxi to the city center costs $30-35, or you can use Uber. To reach our properties: Buenaventura is ~90 minutes via the Pan-American Highway; Playa Escondida is ~90 minutes via the Trans-Isthmian highway toward Colón. Renting a car is recommended for exploring outside the city ($30-50/day). In Panama City, the Metro is modern and affordable ($0.35). Taxis are accessible but negotiate the fare before getting in.
Where to Stay with Spongi
Our properties are ideal for large families or groups of friends: both feature 4 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms plus a maid's room, capacity for 12-16 guests, a full gourmet kitchen with dishwasher, and 1 Gbps Wi-Fi. Buenaventura on the Pacific coast offers beach access, golf, Beach Club, and a central location for day trips. Playa Escondida on the Caribbean coast is ideal for snorkeling and Portobelo's colonial history. Both properties save significantly on dining by cooking at home — a huge advantage for large groups. Book ahead during high season (December-March).