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Customs and Free Health Insurance for Tourists

US, Canadian and EU citizens only need a valid passport to gain entry for 90 days, which you can extend another 90 days by either briefly leaving Panama and coming back, or by going to the Ministry of Immigration. Citizens of other countries should consult with the Panamanian consulate or embassy in their home country to obtain the latest information on entry requirements. In some cases you will need a visa. Before you go through customs, make sure to pick up an tourist insurance card for free at the Tourist Information Center that will cover medical expenses for emergencies during your trip for up to 30 days.

Arriving in Panama

There is an official taxi stand in the exit area after you pass through customs. It costs $25 for the 20 minute taxi ride into Panama City. You can also ask for a shared ride that costs around $15. These official taxis are safe and reliable.

Getting around Panama City

We don't recommend renting a car to go around Panama City if this is your first visit to Panama. The main reason is that the signage is poor- you will get lost. Secondly, driving in Panama City is difficult- chaotic is a good word to describe it. (Driving outside Panama City is fine) The alternative is to take taxis which are inexpensive and easy to find. From outside your hotel, you flag one easily. You can go just about anywhere in Panama City for $5 or less. Make sure you take only taxis that are painted yellow with a number on them. If you don't speak Spanish, have some nice personnel at your hotel write the directions in Spanish for your taxi driver.

Private Taxi Service: If your Spanish is not great or you just want to relax and leave everything in capable hands, we recommend you contact Judy of Easy Travel Panama which specializes in “personalized” ground transportation and sight-seeing service by private taxi. From the minute you touch Panamanian soil, you will have a knowledgeable and English-speaking driver/guide at the Tocumen International airport to receive and assist you. Their rates are very reasonable- for example $15 an hour for your private taxi with an English speaking, knowledgeable guide. Easy Travel offers transportation throughout Panama City and other nearby popular destinations.

Contact Judy at:

Web: Easy Travel Panama

E-mail: easytravel@cwpanama.net

Phone: (507) 6617-4122

Leaving Panama

There are no special issues leaving except that if you purchased your ticket in 2009, you will need to pay a #20 airpost tax. From 2010, this charge was included when you bought your ticket.