Safety and security

Border security:

The Panama-Colombia border (Darien Gap) is particularly dangerous. There have been reports of violent crime, kidnapping and murder in this area.

Crime is also an issue in the Mosquito Gulf, where criminal organisations, such as dissent groups and drug traffickers, may be present.

These areas are particularly dangerous due to their remoteness.

Crime:

Street crime is a problem in areas like Panama City, Colon, and Chiriqui province. Such crimes can include shootings, home invasions, armed robberies, pick-pocketing, muggings, and thefts.  Areas such as San Miguelito, El Chorillo and Juan Diaz are known to have greater levels of crime as most of these crimes are between members of rival drug gangs.

Personal attacks, including sexual assault, can occur in tourist destinations across Panama.

Always take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings against the risk of crime. Where possible, plan how you will travel to and from your destination. Public transportation should be used with caution.

Petty crime:

Petty theft, such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, is relatively common in Panama, especially in busy areas, on buses and at bus stations. Take care of your personal belongings and avoid obvious displays of wealth. Avoid using your mobile phone on the street.

Only use ATMs in banks or shopping centres.  Do not carry large sums of cash or valuables in public.

Lost or stolen passports:

Take extreme care with your passport and other personal documentation. If your passport is lost or stolen, it can take up to three weeks to get a replacement, due to time and distance factors. Getting a replacement passport will be easier if you are able to provide a copy of the lost or stolen one, so keep photocopies or scans of your passport.

Reporting crime:

If you are a victim of crime while in Panama, report it to the local police immediately or dial 911 from any telephone. Many insurance companies will only compensate loss from theft if you can provide a police report. 

Contact us at the Embassy or Honorary Consulate if you require assistance.

Political situation:

Political demonstrations may occur at short notice, which can lead to road blocks and occasionally turn violent. You should avoid protests and demonstrations, monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Driving: Exercise caution if you are planning to drive in Panama. You can use your Irish driver’s license for a period of up to 90 days.  If you want to drive:

• Ensure your license is valid for use in Panama and ensure you have adequate and appropriate insurance
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching when stopped in traffic

Taxis:

Where possible, plan how you will travel to and from your destination and only use pre-booked taxis. We strongly advise against hailing taxis from the street. In general, taxis in Panama do not use meters, so it is advisable to agree on a fare before getting into the taxi.

Hiring a vehicle

If you are hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Safe swimming

Be careful when swimming or taking part in water sports on Pacific and Caribbean beaches as in some places there are strong currents, rips and undertows. Panamanian beaches may not have lifeguards on duty.

Swimming in the Bay of Panama is not recommended as it is thought to be polluted with untreated sewage and industrial waste.

If you wish to go swimming, always check the signage before getting into the water. Avoid swimming in water where there are no other swimmers.

Natural disasters and climate

Earthquakes can occur from time to time in Panama. Tsunamis can also happen. Make sure you know what to do in the event of an earthquake or tsunami.

Panama is prone to heavy rains. The rainy season runs from April to December, but October and November normally register the heaviest rainfall. Occasional flooding and landslides occur in rural areas. Some city streets and rural roads can become impassable due to flooding.

In Panama, the hurricane season is from June to November, but storms can happen year-round. They can cause flooding and landslides, particularly in rural areas.

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal. 

Illegal drugs:

Drug trafficking is a very serious crime in Panama and drug smugglers face severe penalties, usually receiving long terms of imprisonment.

Merely being in the company of someone who is using drugs is grounds for arrest.

Pack your luggage yourself and keep it with you at all times. Don't carry anything through customs for anybody else.

LGBTI Travelers:

Homosexuality is legal but may not be widely accepted in some parts of the country, especially in rural areas.

Taking photos:

It's illegal to take photos of official buildings. Ask for permission before photographing anyone.

Health

Before you travel, you should make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad or repatriation.

Vaccinations

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for Panama. You can find out more information about vaccinations on the HSE’s website.

Medical facilities

The standard of healthcare facilities in Panama City is generally good, but medical facilities outside the capital are limited. If you need emergency medical assistance dial 911.

Malaria

Malaria is relatively common in parts of Panama, including in some outlying areas of Panama City. You are advised to take medical advice on anti-malarial medication prior to travel. After arrival, take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by using bed nets and repellents, and wearing closed shoes, long sleeves and trousers.

Dengue fever

Dengue fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year. Take precautions against being bitten by Dengue-carrying mosquitoes, which are active throughout the day.

Zika Virus

There have been outbreaks of Zika Virus (a dengue-like mosquito-borne disease) in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Irish Citizens especially those with a weakened immune system or women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

Chikungunya

Cases of chikungunya virus have been reported in Panama. As with other mosquito-borne viruses, all precautions should be taken to avoid bites.

Entry requirements

Visa/Passport

Irish citizens don't need a visa to visit Panama for periods of up to 90 days. When entering the country, you may need to provide evidence of return or onward travel.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Panama and contain at least one unused page. Entry requirements change from time to time, so check these requirements before departure with the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Panama.

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport, the passport page containing your Panamanian visa (if applicable), and the passport page containing your entry stamp, at all times.

Arriving by sea

Those arriving in Panama by private boat are advised to contact Panama’s Servicio Nacional de Migración for information on entry permits and associated fees and conditions.