Panama is a country full of natural beauty and welcoming locals. It’s also home to some of the most fascinating creatures on earth! If you’re thinking about visiting Panama soon, here are some tips that will help make your trip go smoothly.
1) Get vaccinated before you arrived
A great idea to make your trip smooth and worry-free is to get vaccinated before you arrive. Panama is a country full of many different types of animals, and some of them can spread diseases through bites and other contacts. Specific vaccines that you should be thinking about getting include ones for rabies, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid fever, and yellow fever. You should check with your doctor or travel clinic to see what other vaccines might be necessary based on where you’re going in Panama.
2) Pack for all types of weather
When packing for a visit to Panama, it’s important to be prepared for all types of weather. The country is located in the tropics, so it can get hot and humid during the summer months, and it can also rain quite a bit. Be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a raincoat or umbrella, just in case.
If you’re visiting during the summer, it’s also a good idea to pack light clothing that will keep you cool, such as shorts and tank tops. And if you’re planning on doing any hiking or outdoor activities, be sure to bring along extra clothes in case you get wet or sweaty.
In general, it’s always a good idea to pack a variety of clothing options, as the weather can change quickly in Panama. You’ll be happy you brought along that raincoat when the sun goes down and the temperature drops!
Besides that, be sure to bring a camera, plenty of spare batteries and memory cards as well as some basic first-aid supplies. Panamanians are extremely friendly so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance if you need it!
3) Bring comfortable shoes
The most important tip for a visitor to Panama is to bring a comfortable pair of shoes! It also helps to have some snacks and plenty of bottled water on hand as well as some insect repellent. Weather can change from city to city so be sure to pack a rain jacket and an umbrella if you need them.
Avoid shoes like tennis shoes and boots as they will be uncomfortable to wear for long periods. Other types such as sandals or flip-flops are not recommended for safety reasons. You have to choose sturdy shoes with a good grip to explore the different areas of Panama.
4) Rent a car to get around
If you’re planning on hitting the road while visiting Panama, you must rent a car. Taxis can be quite expensive and are often not readily available when needed during certain hours of the day. Renting your car is also much more convenient because you have access to transportation wherever you go throughout all of Panama.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of the road before you hit the open road, as they can be a bit different than what you’re used to. And always keep an eye out for potholes, as they are quite common throughout Panama’s roads.
5) Find a place to stay
Panama has many different types of accommodations available for its visitors. Hotels are always an option, but if you’re on a budget or looking for something more unique, there are plenty of other options out there as well! You can also find hostels that offer bed and breakfasts, which provide guests with a more home-like experience.
If you’re looking to stay near the beach, several lovely resorts offer ocean views and all-inclusive packages. And for those who want to explore Panama’s rainforest, there are also several jungle lodges available that provide an unbeatable immersive experience.
6) Get a Visa
To visit Panama, you will need a visa. You can get a visa from the Panamanian embassy or consulate in your country. The visa process is pretty simple, and you can usually get your visa within a few days.
Note that the visa process may vary depending on your country. Make sure to check the Panamanian embassy or consulate website for more information.
7) Know the dos and don’ts of visiting Panama City
When visiting Panama City, it’s important to be aware of the dos and don’ts. Here are some tips:
Do:
- Enjoy the city’s vibrant culture and architecture
- Visit the Panama Canal
- Explore the various neighborhoods
Don’t:
- Park illegally or you may get a ticket
- Visit the canal during rush hour, as it will be very crowded
- Wear shorts or revealing clothing in more conservative neighborhoods
8) Use these phrases in Spanish when you visit Panama
When you visit a new place, it’s always a good idea to learn a few phrases in the local language. This will help you communicate with the locals and get more out of your trip. Here are some useful phrases to know when you’re visiting Panama:
“Hello” – Hola
“How are you?” – ¿Cómo estás?
“Thank you” – Gracias
“You’re welcome” – De nada
“Yes” – Sí
“No” – No
You can also check out Google Translate for more phrases. This app is really useful because it translates text and audio in real-time, making it easy to communicate with the locals without having to learn their language. You can even speak into your phone or tablet like you’re having a conversation with someone, and it will automatically translate what you say.
Another great way to learn about the local culture is to talk to the people who live there. Ask them about their customs and traditions, and see if they can recommend any restaurants or attractions that you shouldn’t miss. By getting to know the locals, you’ll be able to experience Panama like a local and have a more authentic trip.
Conclusion
There are a lot of little things to keep in mind when you plan on how to visit Panama. Like any destination, it’s important that you know what you’re getting yourself into if this is your first time visiting the country!