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Few scams

Central America

Tourist scams in Panama

Most of Panama is very safe, though the frequency of tourist scams is unclear. Counterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes are a known concern, and agreeing taxi fares before a ride helps prevent disputes.
  1. 1 Other tricksOccasionalCounterfeit US$50 and US$100 notesCounterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes have circulated. Many businesses refuse these denominations. Those that accept them may ask for your passport and record your details and the notes' serial numbers.Across the country 3Read

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree the total fare before getting in. Taxi rates are negotiated and vary by location.
  • Ask whether the quoted fare covers everyone or is per person.
  • Use the stated fares as rough comparisons: most short rides are $2.50, and a ride across town is about $5.
  • Expect an airport price difference. Tocumen airport to Panama City costs at least $30; sharing can bring the fare to around $12 per person.

Money

  • Carry small bills. Many businesses do not accept US$50 or US$100 notes.
  • Count your change before leaving the counter.
  • Panamanian coins and US coins of equal value are interchangeable in Panama.
  • A passport request when paying with a US$50 or US$100 note can be part of a business's checks.

Cards and ATMs

  • Check that your card works with Cirrus or Plus. Cards with the Interlink symbol may not work.
  • Allow for a withdrawal fee generally stated as $5.25 when using a Visa credit card.
  • Cover your PIN and decline help from strangers.
  • Keep a backup payment method separate from your main wallet.

Your belongings

  • Keep your phone and wallet secure when moving through busy places.
  • Carry only the cash you need for the day.
  • Keep copies of important documents separately.
  • Plan routes carefully around Colón and the Panama City areas of El Chorrillo, Curundu and El Marañón.

Nights out

  • In San Felipe, stay on the main streets, plazas and the bar and restaurant area toward the point at night.
  • Use extra caution when heading north along Avenida Central toward El Chorrillo.
  • Plan how you will get back before going out.
  • Keep your drink in sight and stay aware of your surroundings.

Tours and guides

  • For a charter flight, check the aircraft's tail number.
  • Aircraft registered for public charter work have letters after the numeric part of the tail number, such as HP-0000TD.
  • Confirm the operator and full price before paying.

What travellers say about Panama

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Panama generally safe for a first visit?

Most of Panama is very safe. Rural residents are generally friendly and helpful. Some city areas need more care, and the Panama–Colombia border region is considered extraordinarily dangerous.

How do I avoid a taxi fare dispute?

Agree the total fare before getting in. Confirm whether it is per person or for the whole vehicle. Most short rides are about $2.50, while a ride across town is about $5, but prices vary by location.

Is a $30 taxi from Tocumen airport automatically a scam?

No. The stated minimum from Tocumen airport to Panama City is $30. Sharing with other passengers can reduce the fare to around $12 per person. Confirm your fare before leaving.

Should I carry US$50 or US$100 bills?

Small bills are easier to use. Many businesses refuse US$50 and US$100 notes because of counterfeiting. Some businesses that accept them ask for a passport and record details.

Are Panamanian coins in my change a warning sign?

No. Panamanian coins and US coins of equal value are interchangeable in Panama. Receiving a mix is normal.

Will my card work at an ATM?

ATMs use Cirrus and Plus, but may reject cards with the Interlink symbol. Keep a backup payment method. A Visa credit-card withdrawal generally carries a $5.25 ATM fee.

Which city areas need extra caution?

Most of Colón is considered dangerous. In Panama City, El Chorrillo, Curundu and El Marañón are areas of concern. Plan your route and keep valuables secure.

Can I walk around Casco Viejo at night?

Casco Viejo, also called San Felipe, has safe main streets, plazas and a bar and restaurant area toward the point at night. Use extra caution when moving north along Avenida Central toward El Chorrillo.

What should I check before taking a charter flight?

Check the aircraft's tail number. Aircraft registered for public charter work have letters after the numeric part, such as HP-0000TD. This indicates charter insurance and additional inspection and maintenance requirements.

What should I do first if my wallet or phone is stolen?

Get somewhere safe. Freeze affected cards, secure any exposed accounts and report the theft to police. Save the report details for your insurer, and contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was taken.

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