Find and Book Cheap Flights to Panama City and Other Top Destinations in Panama

This is the high season, offering the best weather with little rain. Expect higher prices for cheap flight tickets to PTY, but perfect conditions for exploring beaches and the interior.

March and April are still dry, but May marks the start of the wet season. This is a great time to find Panama cheap flights and enjoy lower crowds before the summer break.

The wet season is in full swing, meaning lush landscapes and daily afternoon showers. This is when you can find some of the cheapest flights to Panama and enjoy fewer crowds at major attractions.

This is the wettest period and often offers the lowest prices on Panama flight deals. Travelers who don't mind rain showers can find excellent value and experience the country without the crowds.

US citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 180 days, only a valid passport and proof of onward travel. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your entry date. Upon arrival at Tocumen International Airport (PTY), you will complete an immigration form. Be aware that Panama requires proof of economic solvency, usually around $500, though this is rarely checked for tourists. If you plan to stay longer or work, you must apply for the proper permits beforehand. Always check the latest entry rules before securing your Panama cheap flights, as regulations can change quickly.

Getting around Panama City is easy. The Metro system is clean and efficient, connecting key areas. For local travel, use the Metro Bus system with a rechargeable card, similar to systems in the US. Taxis are widely available but agree on the fare before starting the ride, or use ride-sharing apps like Uber, which are popular and often more reliable for fixed pricing. To explore outside the capital, like reaching Bocas del Toro or David Chiriqui, consider domestic flights or comfortable long-distance buses. Renting a car is possible but driving standards outside the city can be challenging.

Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) as its official currency, alongside the Panamanian Balboa (PAB), which is pegged 1:1 to the USD. This simplifies transactions immensely for travelers from the United States. ATMs are widely available in cities and accept most US bank cards. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and stores, but cash is essential for smaller vendors and rural travel. Tipping is customary: 10% to 15% in restaurants is standard, and a small amount for taxi drivers is appreciated, especially if they help with luggage. Always carry small US bills for convenience and ease of making change.

Panama is generally safe, especially compared to some other Latin American countries, but standard city precautions apply. In crowded areas like markets or busy transit hubs, watch out for pickpockets. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas of Panama City. A common scam involves taxi drivers claiming meters are broken; always confirm the fare or use a ride-share app. When withdrawing cash, use ATMs inside banks or major shopping centers. Do not flash expensive items. Stay alert, especially when looking for Panama cheap flights or deals online, to avoid booking scams. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals.

Panamanian food is hearty and flavorful, often featuring rice, beans, plantains, and fresh seafood, reflecting its coastal location. Try *sancocho* (chicken soup) and *hojaldras* (fried bread) for breakfast. Street food is safe and cheap; look for *empanadas*. Dining out is affordable, especially outside tourist centers. Tipping 10-15% is expected. Remember that dinner is eaten late, typically after 7:00 PM. Tap water is safe to drink in Panama City, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas. Enjoy the fresh tropical fruits available everywhere, like mangoes and pineapples, which are often sold roadside.

Panama offers a wide range of lodging, from luxury hotels in Panama City to eco-lodges in the highlands and hostels in Bocas del Toro. Booking early, especially if traveling during peak season (December to April), is crucial to secure the best rates, especially near major attractions. Consider staying in the Casco Viejo area for history and nightlife, or El Cangrejo for a more modern, central experience. For budget flights to Panama, pairing them with off-peak accommodation can lead to great savings. Always read reviews before booking your stay, and check if breakfast is included, as this can be a great way to save money.