New Zealand
Panama Travel and Destination Guide
PRE-DEPARTURE INFO
Bandits, smugglers, Colombian guerrillas and paramilitary forces make the area of Darién Province between Yaviza and the Colombian border along the upper Tuira River unsafe. However, the vast majority of Darién National Park is relatively safe - travel with a guide is recommended.
There have been reports of armed criminals targeting travelers at Madden Dam in Chagre National Park.
When to Go
The best time to visit Panama really depends on what you plan to do. If you intend to spend most of your time on the Pacific side, try December or January, when there's generally little rain and the weather is pleasant. If you're doing any serious hiking, this is also the most comfortable time to do it; the Darién Gap can be crossed only at this time. Bear in mind, however, that hotel prices and airfares are generally higher in the dry season (mid-December to mid-April). For planning purposes, be aware that Panama's mountains can get very cold at night; be sure to bring warm clothing.
Some of Panama's colorful festivals draw large crowds. If you like to party, try to be in Panama City or Las Tablas for Carnaval, held each year on the weekend before Ash Wednesday. Hotel reservations during Carnaval are a must and should be made well in advance.
Visas Overview
British, German and Swiss citizens, among others, need only a passport to enter Panama; people from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, USA, Venezuela and some other countries need a tourist visa or tourist card as well. Contact an embassy or consulate for current details.
Electricity
120V 60Hz
Electric Plug Details
Japanese-style plug with two parallel flat blades
American-style plug with two parallel flat blades above a circular grounding pin
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