Town in Veraguas, Panama
Getting around Santa Catalina
How to get around Santa Catalina
You walk or take taxis in the village. Reaching it requires a long bus ride via Santiago and Soná, or a private shuttle from Panama City.
Ways to get around Santa Catalina
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Bus Santiago–Santa Catalina | About $4–6 | Via Soná, 2 to 2.5 hours; check the afternoon schedule |
| Shuttle van from Panama City | About $40–60 | 5–6 hours; book through hostels |
| Taxi in the village | $2–8 | No meter; agree a price first |
Taxis in Santa Catalina
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. No ride apps. Taxis and hostel shuttles are the norm; agree a fare before travelling.
Arriving in Santa Catalina
Tocumen International (PTY)
Shuttle van about $50–80 (6 hours), or bus to Santiago then local bus (7–8 hours total). No airport nearby.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rented at some hostels; dirt roads are rough and many tourists crash. Take care and wear a helmet.
- Driving: on the right. Foreign licences are valid for 90 days; carry your passport with the entry stamp. Paper licences aren't accepted.
- Onward travel in Panama: Buses leave Albrook terminal for David, Boquete and Almirante (boats to Bocas); Air Panama flies to Bocas and David. San Blas trips go by 4x4 plus boat with tour operators.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Santa Catalina?
No ride-hailing apps work here. No ride apps. Taxis and hostel shuttles are the norm; agree a fare before travelling.
What's the best way to get around Santa Catalina?
You walk or take taxis in the village. Reaching it requires a long bus ride via Santiago and Soná, or a private shuttle from Panama City.
How do I get from the airport to Santa Catalina?
Shuttle van about $50–80 (6 hours), or bus to Santiago then local bus (7–8 hours total). No airport nearby.
Is Santa Catalina walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Santa Catalina
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Sources
- Air Panama (domestic flights)
- Metro de Panamá
- Panama Tourism Authority (ATP)
- Coiba National Park (MiAmbiente)
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.