Mexico & Central America
Is Panama safe?
L2Exercise increased caution
Is Panama safe?
Central Panama City districts and tourist areas are fine with normal care; some city neighbourhoods and Colón have serious crime. The Darién near Colombia is off-limits.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 2: Exercise increased caution, updated 2026-08-18.
- Homicide rate: 11.7 per 100,000 people (2023, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 13.9 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 104 · Fire 103 · All emergencies 911.
- Solo women: Catcalling is common, but solo women travel widely. Use app taxis at night and take care on isolated beaches and trails.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Muggings in El Chorrillo, Curundú, San Miguelito and Colón city
- Armed groups and trafficking in the Darién near Colombia
- Protests and road blockades, notably in Bocas del Toro
- Rip currents on Pacific and Caribbean beaches
Common scams
- Unmetered taxis overcharging; agree the fare first or use apps
- Counterfeit $50 and $100 notes; carry small bills
Laws visitors break by accident
- You must carry your passport or official ID at all times; fines or detention otherwise.
- Smoking and vaping are banned in public places, with fines of US$25–100.
Safety by place in Panama
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Boquete | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| San Blas Islands | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Santa Catalina | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Pedasí | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Panama City | 3/5 · Take real precautions |
| Bocas del Toro | 3/5 · Take real precautions |
Quick answers
Is Panama safe for tourists?
Central Panama City districts and tourist areas are fine with normal care; some city neighbourhoods and Colón have serious crime. The Darién near Colombia is off-limits.
Is Panama safe for solo female travelers?
Catcalling is common, but solo women travel widely. Use app taxis at night and take care on isolated beaches and trails.
What is the emergency number in Panama?
Police 104 · Fire 103 · All emergencies 911.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- GOV.UK foreign travel advice: Panama
- Government of Canada travel advice: Panama
- Servicio Nacional de Migración: remote worker visa requirements
- Speedtest Global Index: Panama
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.