Panama – From Canal to Caribbean

At the time of writing, British, US and Australian nationals do not require a visa for short-stay tourist visits to Panama. Entry is typically granted for up to 180 days. As entry requirements can change, we recommend verifying the current position with the Panamanian Immigration Authority and the FCDO Panama Travel Advice before departure. Nationals of other countries should check with their own government's travel authority or the nearest Panamanian embassy.

British nationals require a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Panama. You should also ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps. If you are travelling on a non-British passport, please check the entry requirements with the relevant embassy or your government's travel authority before booking.

Recommended vaccinations for Panama typically include hepatitis A, typhoid and routine immunisations such as tetanus, diphtheria and MMR. Malaria prophylaxis may be advised for travel to certain rural and forested areas, including parts of the Darién region — your itinerary will determine whether this applies to your trip. Yellow fever vaccination is not generally required for Panama unless you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. For the most current health advice, visit TravelHealthPro and consult your GP or a specialist travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure.

Comprehensive travel insurance is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations. Your policy must cover medical expenses, emergency repatriation and the full duration of your Panama trip, including all activities included in the itinerary.

Panama's official currency is the Balboa, which is pegged 1:1 to the US Dollar — US Dollar notes are widely accepted and practical to carry. Credit cards are accepted in Panama City and larger towns, but cash remains important in rural areas, island communities and smaller restaurants. Tap water is generally safe to drink in Panama City but bottled water is advisable elsewhere. Panama operates on Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5) year-round. Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated by guides and hotel staff — a modest discretionary amount is the norm. Light, breathable clothing is recommended throughout, with a warm layer for the Boquete highlands, and sun protection is essential on the Caribbean coast and at the Panama Canal.