Panama is a regional hub at the crossroads of the Americas. From well-maintained highways to pothole-ridden backroads and from buses to planes, the country's well-developed infrastructure makes it easy to travel within and beyond its borders. Let us explore Panama's varied means of transportation, including planes, metro, buses, taxis, Uber, trains and boats.Ìý
Panamanian roads
Roads are often a telltale sign of the country's development. If we consider the quality of Panamanian roads, we receive mixed signals, as some are in top-notch condition while others require all of the driver's attention and skills.
The Pan-American Highway is a vital artery running across Panama from east to west. It starts in Argentina and leads to the U.S., traversing 14 countries with a short break in the Panamanian rainforest, the Darien Gap.
While the Pan-American Highway is the primary route connecting Panama's provinces, not all stretches of the road are in good shape. New sections and overpasses have recently been inaugurated, considerably reducing heavy traffic and travel times. Nevertheless, some parts of the country's main route are ridden with potholes. Additionally, some minor roads branching off the Carretera Panamericana are in poor condition, so do not expect a 100% smooth driving experience here.
Most of Panama City's roads are in a decent state. Still, you must stay alert—occasional rough patches can catch you by surprise.
Buses in Panama
Metrobus
Buses are the backbone of Panama's public transport, especially for locals. The Metrobus system serves routes within Panama City and its suburbs. To board a city bus, you must have a prepaid Metrobus card (US$4), available at metro stations and retail shops. Cash payments are not accepted. The fare is US$0.25 per ride within the capital.
Provincial and long-distance buses
To get to the country's provinces, you must catch a bus at the Abrook Terminal in Panama City. Tickets are available at the terminal, and prices vary by destination. These buses make multiple stops along the route, which increases travel time. Make sure to grab a sweater—locals tend to keep the AC on full blast.
For those who don't mind long rides, a to San José, Costa Rica, takes about 16.5 hours and costs around US$60. If you are heading to the paradisiacal islands of Bocas del Toro, you can catch a bus to Changuinola, which takes approximately 11 hours. Buses depart from the Albrook Terminal, where travelers can buy tickets.
The Red Devil bus
A distinctive feature of the local public transport—and a symbol of Panamanian culture—is the Red Devil bus (Diablo Rojo). These U.S. school buses were imported in the 1970s and served as the country's primary means of transportation for 40 years. At the time, individual operators owned their buses and were licensed to provide transport services.
The name Diablo Rojo originated from the reckless driving habits of that era's bus operators, who often exceeded speed limits in a competitive rush to pick up more passengers. The buses' metal exterior became a playground for urban artists who decorated them with airbrush paintings under the direction of the owners. Popular themes included religious scenes, actors, singers, models and family members.
Since 2010, the local government has gone a long way to replace the Red Devils with the modern but less colorful Metrobus system. However, a few Diablos Rojos still cruise the streets, adding a splash of color to this tropical country. On weekend nights, some Red Devils transform into party buses, blasting loud music and glowing with neon lights.
Taxis and Uber in Panama
While locals rely on the cheap public bus and metro system, foreigners often opt for taxis or Uber to get around the capital. Their direct routes and affordability appeal to those seeking comfort. Prices vary depending on the distance, time of day and traffic.
Taxis
Taxis can be booked or hailed on the streets. Local taxis do not use taximeters, so agreeing on the price beforehand is wise. Fares for downtown trips range from US$2 to US$5, while a ride to Casco Viejo, the historic district, costs about US$5-US$7. A one-way trip to the Panama Canal can cost around US$10-US$15. If you hail a taxi, a driver may impose a fare that he considers fair, so it is best to ask for the price before accepting the ride.
Uber
Since Uber entered Panama, fewer expats have relied on taxi services. The security and comfort Uber provides are unbeatable. The fares are comparable to those of taxis. You can book an Uber trip through the Uber app or website; the latter requires account registration.
Uber rides from Tocumen airport are better priced than the official airport taxi, which costs US$30. Uber fares range from US$12 to 20 depending on the time of day and traffic.
Renting a car in Panama
If you want to explore Panama by car, renting one is a viable option. Tourists can drive in the country for 90 days with their foreign license. After that period, obtaining a local driver's license is required.
Popular rental companies in Panama include:
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Metro in Panama
Panama has a modern metro system that was inaugurated in 2014. Two metro lines are currently in operation, and the expansion continues with the third line under construction.
A metro ride costs US$0.35 or US$0.50, depending on the line. Special tariffs exist for students (US$0.17), retirees (US$0.24) and disabled passengers (US$0.24). To access the service, users must buy a Metro, MetroBus or RapiPass (US$4 each card), which are available at metro stations and retail shops.
Traveling by air in Panama
Tocumen International Airport (PTY), an important regional hub, is the country's gateway. The airport offers flights to and from the Caribbean, South, North and Central America, as well as to Europe and Turkey.
Other international airports include:
- Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB) near the capital;
- Enrique Malek International Airport (DAV) in David, ChiriquÃ;
- Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (PAC) in the capital;
- Scarlett Martinez International Airport (RIH) in Coclé.
Small airports, serving routes to all corners of the country, are located throughout the provinces.
The national airline is Copa Airlines. Established in 1947, it initially served three Panamanian cities. Nowadays, Copa Airlines connects Panama with over 78 destinations across more than 30 countries.
Air Panama is a Panamanian company serving domestic routes, with the most popular being flights to Bocas del Toro, David and Pedasi.
Trains in Panama
Panama's only intercity passenger train route is the , which operates between Panama City and Colón. The journey takes around 3 hours, and tickets range from US$40 to US$50, depending on the class of service.
Boats in Panama
Panama's natural wonders include several paradisiacal islands, and boats are the primary means of reaching them. You can take a from Panama City to the white-sand beaches of the Las Perlas Archipelago, about 1.5 hours from the city. A closer island is Taboga, which is only 30 minutes by from the capital.
If you visit Bocas del Toro, an archipelago close to the Costa Rican border, you will be island hopping by boat—the islanders' main transport mode. The same applies to the San Blas archipelago, where travelers must take a boat ride from the mainland to one of the islands.
Takeaway
Exploring Panama is easy with its well-developed transport system. Choose between the comfort of the metro, the affordability of buses or the convenience of taxis and Uber to get around the capital. To explore beyond the city, rental cars, long-distance buses and domestic flights provide access to remote parts of the country. Ferries and boats transport passengers to numerous Panamanian islands, while Tocumen International Airport links Panama to the rest of the world.
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