Why visit
Panama pairs Casco Viejo's old town and Panama City skyline with San Blas islands, the Darién rainforest, and a canal that still feels astonishing when a Panamax eases through.
Country - North America
Panama
beachcityadventurenature
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Panama works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Panama City as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Panama.
At a glance
Location
9.0°, -80.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
75,417 km²
29,119 mi²
Country population
4.5 million
59/km²
Subregion
Central America
Currency
Panamanian balboa (B/.)
PAB
Dial
+507
Language
Spanish
Demonym
Panamanian
Internet
.pa
UN
Member state
ISO code
PA / PAN
Where in the world
9.0° - -80.0°
Panama
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- The Panama Canal handles about 5% of global maritime trade: its 2016 expansion doubled capacity.
- Panama uses the US dollar (called "balboa" at parity) as official currency since 1904.
- Panama is the only place in the world where you can watch the sun rise over the Pacific and set over the Atlantic.
Bordering Panama
Traveler notes
- Visa-free for most for 180 days
- San Blas (Guna Yala) is Caribbean travel at its most traditional
- Boquete in the highlands for coffee and hiking
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Panama City, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Bring layered clothing and verify trail/park access before arrival.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Panama
What is the capital of Panama?
Panama City is the capital of Panama.
What currency does Panama use?
Panama uses the Panamanian balboa (B/.), ISO code PAB.
What languages are spoken in Panama?
The primary language is Spanish.
Is Panama landlocked?
No, Panama has a coastline.
What countries border Panama?
Panama borders Colombia, Costa Rica.
What is the international calling code for Panama?
The calling code is +507.
When is the best time to visit Panama?
Dec–Apr. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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