last edited Dec 11, 2019
Other practical information for Panama
Luggage and equipment to bring
For plains and coastal areas, pack lightweight clothing and a sweater for evenings or air conditioning at all times. For the mountains, warmer clothing is recommended. Also bring sun protection and, most importantly, rain gear (even in the dry season), as well as good walking shoes for parks or if you plan to hike.
Communications
Telephone
International dialing code: (00 +) 507.
Internet
Internet is widely available and works well in the country. Between Wi-Fi and cybercafés in cities or tourist areas, it’s easy to connect for free or at a low cost.
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Time difference
Local time: .
Panama is on GMT-5. This means 6 hours behind France in winter and 7 hours behind in summer. Note that there is a one-hour difference between Panama and its Costa Rican neighbor, which is on GMT-6 (when it’s 3:00 PM in Panama, it’s 2:00 PM in Costa Rica).
Electricity
120 V (60 Hz) with "American" plugs (officially types A and B), which will require an adapter for French plugs.
Opening hours
Laundries
Local tourist offices
Weights and measures
The weight and measurement systems are a mix of US and "French" rules. While the metric system is the standard, most people still use miles, feet, inches, etc., due to the long American presence in the country, which has left its mark. Weights are measured in "pounds" (0.45 kg), and quantities in US gallons (3.785 liters).
French language use
French is not common at all in Panama. If traveling independently, it’s best to know at least some Spanish (the official language) or English (widely spoken throughout the country).