Dos and don'ts of panama

Panama Travel Guide: Don’ts You Need to Know

Posted on by Mark Wolters

The Don’ts of Visiting Panama 🇵🇦

(What Tourists Should Know Before They Go)

Hey there, fellow travelers! Mark here with Wolters World, and today we’re talking about the don’ts of visiting Panama — because Panama is an amazing country, but there are a few things you really need to know before you land.

From Panama City’s skyline to the Caribbean beaches of San Blas, this place has a lot going for it. But if you don’t understand the local culture, prices, transportation, and expectations, you might find yourself frustrated instead of enjoying your trip.

Let’s help you avoid that.

1. Don’t Assume Panama Is “Cheap Central America”

Panama is not the budget backpacker paradise some people expect.

Compared to places like Guatemala or Nicaragua, Panama is one of the more expensive destinations in Central America — especially Panama City. Tours, restaurants, and nights out will cost more than you might anticipate.

It’s not insane, but it’s definitely not “$2 beers and $10 tours” cheap.

Plan accordingly.

2. Don’t Stress About Currency — It’s the U.S. Dollar

Yes, technically Panama’s currency is the Balboa — but in reality, you’ll use U.S. dollars.

You may receive Balboa coins, but paper money is USD.

Pro tip:

  • Bring small bills.
  • Get change inside the bank.
  • Street vendors and taxis often won’t have change for large notes.

3. Don’t Skip the Panama Canal

Yes, it’s “just a canal.”

But it’s also one of the most important engineering feats in the world and a massive part of Panama’s economy and identity.

Visit:

  • The Miraflores Locks
  • The Canal Museum
  • Monkey Island tours

Just… maybe skip the geopolitical debates while you’re there.

4. Don’t Forget to Greet People

A simple “Buenos días” goes a long way.

Whether you’re:

  • Entering a shop
  • Getting into an elevator
  • Sitting down at a restaurant

Greeting people matters in Panama. It sets the tone.

Dos and don'ts of panama
Lots of great do’s and don’ts of visiting Panama

5. Don’t Expect Super Fast Service

Service here is more relaxed. You may need to:

  • Ask for the menu
  • Ask for the bill
  • Ask for refills

The people are kind, but the service style is slower and less attentive than in Costa Rica or Belize. Don’t take it personally.

6. Don’t Compare Panama to Costa Rica or Colombia

Locals take pride in being Panamanian.

Avoid:

  • “Well, in Costa Rica…”
  • “Didn’t Panama used to be part of Colombia?”

Panama is its own country with its own identity — and they’re proud of it.

7. Don’t Flush Toilet Paper (In Many Places)

In many areas, especially rural spots:

🚽 Toilet paper goes in the bin — not the toilet.

Also:

  • Bring tissues for hikes.
  • Some public bathrooms require a small payment.
  • Don’t expect toilet paper everywhere.

8. Don’t Worry About the Tap Water (In Panama City)

In Panama City, tap water is safe to drink and brush your teeth with.

Outside major cities? Stick to bottled water.

9. Don’t Skip the Local Food

Panama’s food scene is underrated.

Must-try dishes:

  • Sancocho (flavorful chicken soup with yuca)
  • Ropa vieja
  • Coconut rice on the coast
  • Ceviche
  • Carimañolas (deep-fried yuca stuffed with meat or cheese)

Street food is totally fine — enjoy it.

10. Don’t Complain About the Heat, Humidity, or Bugs

It’s tropical. Close to the equator.

That means:

  • High SPF sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Hydration
  • Morning hikes instead of afternoon hikes

Those little “chitra” bugs? They’re real.

11. Don’t Assume All Beaches Are the Same

Caribbean Side (San Blas, Bocas del Toro)

  • White sand
  • Crystal-clear water
  • Classic Caribbean vibe

Pacific Side

  • Darker sand
  • Great surfing
  • More chill atmosphere

Both are beautiful — just different.

12. Don’t Expect Luxury in San Blas

San Blas (Guna Yala) is incredible.

But:

  • Limited electricity
  • Little to no WiFi
  • Basic accommodations

If you want more amenities, Bocas del Toro may be a better fit.

Also: Don’t underestimate the travel time from Panama City. It’s a long day if you’re doing a day trip.

13. Don’t Dress Sloppy in Panama City

Panama City is modern, upscale, and stylish.

People dress well.

If you’re going out at night or shopping, step it up a bit.

14. Don’t Rely Only on Taxis

Uber works well in Panama City.

If you take a taxi:

  • Negotiate the price beforehand.
  • Confirm the rate before getting in.

Taxi scams happen everywhere — including here.

15. Don’t Forget to Carry ID

Police can request ID at any time.

Best practice:

  • Leave your passport locked up.
  • Carry a photocopy.
  • Keep a digital copy on your phone.

16. Don’t Forget to Tip — But Don’t Tip Twice

Tipping in Panama:

  • About 10%
  • Check if “propina” or service charge is already included.
  • No need to tip street vendors.

Always check the bill before adding more.

17. Don’t Visit During Peak Rainy Season (If You Can Avoid It)

October sees heavy rain.

Even in dry season, you’ll get short downpours.

Pack:

  • A light poncho
  • Patience

18. Don’t Forget the Eco-Tourism

Panama isn’t just Panama City and beaches.

You can:

  • Hike rainforests
  • Zipline
  • Visit Monkey Island
  • Explore indigenous communities

The interior of the country is worth your time.

Final Thoughts

Panama is modern, proud, tropical, and full of contrast.

You’ve got:

  • Miami-style skylines
  • Indigenous island communities
  • Rainforest hikes
  • World-famous engineering

If you come prepared, respect the culture, and understand the differences, you’ll have an incredible time here.

If you’ve been to Panama, what would you add to the don’ts list?

Let’s help fellow travelers enjoy this beautiful country the right way.

– Mark

Wolters World 🌎