Panama

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, mainly pickpocketing and bag-snatching. You're most at risk in Panama City and Colon.

Take extra care of your valuables in:

• airports
• bus terminals
• public transport

To prevent petty crime:

• be alert after dark
• avoid being on the streets alone
• pay attention in crowded areas
• use ATMs in daylight hours
• withdraw or change money in secure areas like hotels, banks or shopping centres

More information:

• Preventing crime and petty theft

Food and Drink spiking

Be cautious about snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes offered to you as they may contain drugs, putting you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. If you feel any symptoms, tell your friends immediately. Ask someone you trust and know well to take you to a safe place. If a friend shows any of these symptoms, don't leave them alone. You may need to seek medical care.

Methanol poisoning

Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks overseas. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Methanol can be added or accidently created during poor quality alcohol distillation and production. Protect yourself by making smart drink choices. Choose branded beers, ciders, wines and premixed cocktails in sealed bottles and cans. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been poisoned. 

More information:

• Partying safely while overseas

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs in Panama. This includes:

• murder
• robbery
• burglary
• kidnapping
• carjacking
• sexual assault

Armed robbery and muggings occur in Panama. Violent crime is less common than petty crime.

Hotspots for crime in Panama City include:

• Calidonia
• San Miguelito
• Rio Bajo
• El Chorrillo
• Veracruz Beach
• Panama Viejo
• Casco Viejo
• 24 de diciembre
• Santa Ana
• Juan Diaz
• shopping areas on Avenida Central

Armed criminals may target you at Madden Dam, a tourist site in the Chagres National Park.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• don’t travel after dark
• don’t go out alone after dark
• pay attention to your surroundings, especially in isolated and remote areas
• only use official border crossings
• leave valuables and your passport in a secure place
• avoid talking about your travel plans in public

If you're a victim of violent crime, especially rape, get medical help straight away. Panama has a high risk of HIV/AIDS infection.

Scams and fraud

Scams and credit card fraud are a risk.

Instances of credit card and ATM fraud can occur. Take precautions when using debit or credit cards.

Scam artists target foreign visitors and residents. The scams come in many forms and can cause great financial loss. Warn your friends and family to be sceptical if they’re asked to transfer funds to you in Panama. Tell them to contact you to check that you’ve made this request.

Darien Gap

Guerrilla groups, organised crime, cartels and drug traffickers are active in the Darien Gap, near the Colombian border.

Violent crime is common, including:

• kidnapping
• murder, including of foreigners
• armed robbery
• disappearances

The danger zone starts at the end of the Pan American highway at Yaviza and extends into Colombia. This area includes the Darien National Park and privately owned nature reserves, and tourist resorts.

Be aware of landmines in the area. 

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas 

Women travellers

Women traveling alone may encounter instances of sexual harassment and verbal abuse.

More information:

• Advice for Women Travellers

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas while travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Express kidnappings can occur in urban areas, they are often committed by organised gangs or taxi drivers. The kidnappers usually take their victims to an ATM and force them to make a cash withdrawal. If threatened, do not resist. 

More information:

• Kidnapping

Demonstrations and protests

Protests and demonstrations can happen.

Demonstrations and protests against the government can occur. Some can turn violent, causing injuries and deaths. They may occur anywhere across the country and often affect public transport and road access.

It is illegal for foreigners to take part in political demonstrations in Panama.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid demonstrations, protests and public gatherings
• check the media for reports of unrest
• follow advice from local authorities

Protesters may block roads.

If you encounter a protest, leave as soon as it is safe.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals,  concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

More information:

• Terrorism

Panama doesn't have many lifeguards. Rescue equipment at public beaches is limited.

Strong currents and rips can make swimming dangerous.

The Bay of Panama is polluted with untreated sewage and industrial waste.

If you decide to go swimming:

• check conditions with your hotel or local authorities before entering the water
• never swim alone

Rescue services may not consistently meet international standards, and unpredictable tidal changes can result in powerful currents and common riptides. Lifeguards and warning flags may not be present on all beaches to signal hazardous conditions.

Diving

Tour operators and diving centres may not adhere strictly to international standards. When engaging in adventure sports such as diving, choose a reputable company with proper insurance coverage.

Panama experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• hurricanes
• earthquakes
• volcanic activity
• tsunamis

In the event of a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in touch with your friends and family

To get alerts and advice, register with:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency

Hurricanes and severe weather

Severe weather can happen, including:

• landslides
• mudslides
• flooding

Severe weather may affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as communication, water and electricity

The hurricane and rainy season is from June to November. The direction and strength of hurricanes can change at any time.

If you're travelling during the rainy season, contact your:

• tour operator to check if services are affected
• airline for flight updates

Tropical storms and hurricanes can happen in other months. Hurricanes can change direction and strength suddenly.

The wet season is from May to November. Heavy rainfalls can cause landslides and mudslides. These can have a devastating effect on infrastructure and essential services.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• adequate shelter may not be available

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel
• essential services, such as electricity and water

To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• locate your local shelter
• monitor advice from authorities

If you're travelling to Panama during hurricane season or after a natural disaster, monitor weather reports.

Check the National Hurricane and Tropical Prediction Center for weather forecasts.

Earthquakes

Panama experiences earthquakes. Tsunamis can also happen. 

Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit.

Tsunamis

Tsunamis may occur in Panama.

Receive tsunami alerts by registering with the following:

• Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System
• Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by authorities, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Medication with pseudoephedrine is banned in Panama.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Panama. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• if needed, get DFAT to authenticate medical documents before you depart

You could be refused entry or prosecuted if you arrive without a prescription for your medication.

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Panama. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Zika virus is also widespread. If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Malaria is a risk throughout the year in Bocas del Toro, Darien and San Blas. It's not a risk in Panama City.

Other insect-borne diseases are present, including:

• dengue
• chikungunya
• leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash, bleeding nose or gums, or a severe headache.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a significant risk in Panama.

Protect yourself if you are at risk of infection.

Hantavirus

Many hantavirus pulmonary syndrome cases are reported in Los Santos province.

To protect yourself:

• don't touch live or dead rodents, burrows or nests
• avoid activities that stir up dust, such as sweeping or vacuuming

For outdoor activities:

• choose a campsite that's open and dry
• don't rest in tall grass or haystacks
• remove any food that may attract rodents

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• hepatitis
• tuberculosis
• rabies
• brucellosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink water from a sealed bottle
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• make sure your vaccinations are up to date
• avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated
• avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

Some private hospitals and clinics are good. Facilities outside Panama City are limited.

You usually need to pay cash upfront before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.

Doctors will rarely agree to work with your travel insurer. You may need to be reimbursed after you pay cash for your treatment. Doctors may only speak Spanish.

If you are seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with appropriate facilities. Medical evacuation can be expensive. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include lengthy prison sentences in local jails.

Authorities may arrest you for illegal drugs if you're either:

• carrying even a very small amount of drugs, or
• with someone who's using them
• If you're found driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, authorities will arrest and possibly detain you.
• Border officials may screen you for drugs, including on departure.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Proof of identity

You must always carry an ID, such as a certified copy of your passport.

LGBTQIA+ travellers 

Avoid public displays of affection.

Same-sex relationships are legal in Panama, but the country is conservative.

Same-sex marriages aren't recognised in Panama

It's not illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

Other laws

In Panama it's illegal to:

• join political activities or demonstrations if you're a foreigner
• import religious materials
• export firearms
• export pre-colonial antiques or artefacts
• export some birds, feathers, plants and animals
• take photos of public buildings or facilities

To avoid breaking the law:

• understand the rules on importing and exporting
• ask local authorities before taking photos of buildings

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Panama recognises dual citizenship. If you are an Australian citizen, and a Panamanian citizen, the consular services we can provide to you may be limited.

More information:

• Dual nationals

It's illegal to photograph public buildings in Panama. If you are unsure about a site, ask an official before you take photos.

Ask for permission before photographing anyone, especially women and children.

Visa-free travel for short stays

If you arrive by air or land, you won't need a visa. You'll be granted an initial stay of 90 days when you arrive. The maximum 90-day period is not guaranteed, and the decision on entry and visa duration is at the discretion of immigration authorities.

To enter, you'll need to show proof of:

• the equivalent of $US1,000 or a credit card
• a return or onward travel ticket

If you're transiting on a cruise ship and Panama is a port of call, you won't need a visa. An immigration official will stamp your passport, and you'll be granted a stay of up to 90 days.

If you arrive by another type of boat, you'll need a visa, and must pay a fee of $US100, plus $US5 registration, for each passenger or crew member. There may be other fees, for example for cruising permits. 

Make sure your passport is stamped on entry to Panama. You may face a fine up to $US1,000 and delays if you fail to present an entry-stamped passport when departing Panama.

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the nearest Panamanian embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, and customs.

Entry into Panama

You'll need to complete an online immigration and customs declaration form when you enter Panama. You can complete this at https://declaraciondeviajero.ana.gob.pa/

Paper declarations will continue to be accepted during the phased transition to a fully digital system.

Travel via the United States

If you're travelling through the United States, ensure you meet all US entry or transit requirements, even if you are transiting through Hawaii. 

More information:

• Travel advice for the US

Travel via Canada

If you're travelling via Canada, you'll need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for Canada. 

More information:

• Canada travel advice

Travel via Chile

If you’re travelling via Chile, ensure you meet all current entry or transit requirements.

More information:

• Chile travel advice

Airport requirements

You'll need to pay a departure tax at the Tocumen Airport in Panama City. Check if your airline ticket already includes this cost.

If you're travelling to the US, you'll need evidence of an onward or return ticket. This applies even if you can enter the US under its visa waiver program.

Travel with children

Children aged under 18, who are Panamanian dual nationals or residents travelling to or from Panama alone, or with only one parent or guardian must have permission from both legal guardians. 

Documents required to leave Panama include:

• their original birth certificate
• notarised consent from non-travelling parents

If these documents are from outside Panama, you must have them verified with an apostille stamp.

Contact an embassy or consulate of Panama for details.

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Validity

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, contact the local police and make a report, and tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers 

The local coin currency is the Panama Balboa (PAB).

The banknote currency is the US Dollar (USD).

Beware of counterfeit currency, especially $US50 and $US100 notes.

You can't exchange Australian dollars in Panama.

You'll need to show your passport or a certified copy of your passport to exchange money.

Credit cards are widely accepted. Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work.

ATMs are available in major centres. Check your bank statements for ATM fraud.

Local restrictions

A State of Exception is periodically declared in various municipalities in Panama to reduce incidents. During this time, restrictions on freedom of movement (curfews) and other rights may be restricted. Monitor local media for updates and information on restrictions in specific neighbourhoods. You must always carry identification and comply with all local laws and police instructions.

Tour Operators

Transport and adventure tour operators may not meet Australian safety standards for:

• scuba diving equipment
• providing life jackets, seat belts and other safety equipment

Rescue services may not be as effective as those in Australia.

If taking part in adventure activities:

• check your travel insurance covers you for the activity
• check the operator's safety equipment before you book
• use reputable operators
• use life jackets and seat belts, even if others don't

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Driving permit

To drive in Panama, you need:

• your passport
• an Australian driver's licence

Road travel

Driving hazards in Panama include:

• aggressive driving
• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• drivers not following traffic laws
• few signs and poor lighting on rural roads
• inadequate street lighting
• sharing roads with pedestrians, bicycles, and farm animals 

Heavy rains cause mudslides and collapse roads. Roads may be closed at short notice, especially during the hurricane and wet seasons.

Driving at night is dangerous. There are often night roadworks on the Pan-American Highway. There may not be signage for these roadworks.

Don't move your vehicle if you're in a motor vehicle accident. By law, you must remain at the scene until the traffic police arrive.

If you plan to travel by road:

• check your travel insurance covers it
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• get local advice on roads and security
• be prepared to change your route
• lock doors and keep car windows up, even when moving
• avoid travel at night

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance may not cover you for accidents on a motorbike or quad bike. Check your insurance covers it.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use ride-share services, where possible, instead of taxis. If this isn't an option, it's best to use registered official taxis and limousines, preferably arranged through your hotel. To avoid issues:

• use official taxis from airports
• pre-pay your fare at an official taxi company booth at the airport
• use official taxis or taxis waiting at assigned stands (sitios), especially in Panama.

Public Transport

• Crime levels on intercity buses and highways are high, and the risks increase after dark. See Safety
• Use first-class buses.
• Women travelling on public transport should be cautious.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely
• Advice for women 

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Panama's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Sea travel

Many international cruise liners visit Panama.

The Pacific and Caribbean coastlines are transport routes for illegal drugs. Consider this security risk before deciding to travel by sea.

More information:

• Going on a cruise

Coiba Island

If you plan to visit the National Park on Coiba Island, you'll need a special permit.

Contact the National Authority for the Environment (ANAM in Spanish) or your tour operator.

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 911.

Medical emergencies

Call 911 or go to the hospital.

Police

Call 104 or go to the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in Panama City, headed by an Honorary Consul. The consulate provides limited consular assistance to Australians in Panama. The Consulate can conduct passport interviews and provide provisional travel documents for emergency travel to the nearest Australian embassy.  The Consulate can’t issue Australian passports. You can get full consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Mexico City.

Australian Honorary Consulate, Panama

PH Midtown, 10th floor, office 10-4
San Francisco
Panama City, Panama

Phone: +507 6325 3852
Email: aushonconpanama@gmail.com

Australian Embassy, Mexico City

Ruben Dario 55 (Polanco)
Col Bosque de Chapultepec
11580 CDMX Mexico

Phone: +52 55 1101 2200
Website: mexico.embassy.gov.au
Email: consularpassports.mexico@dfat.gov.au
Facebook: @AusEmbMex
X: @AusEmbMex

See the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia