If like me the first thing you google when heading to your next country is "Is Panama Safe?" then you are in the right place as that is exactly the topic of this blog post. I will be drawing from my own time in Panama as a Solo backpacker (hello is me Jack 🙌), drawing on popular tourist destinations like Panama City, Bocas del Toro, Boquete, and the San Blas Islands. I am going to be using recent information available from this year in 2024 and drawing from my own experience which involved taking a taxi ride through a riot, oops! But we will cover that in more detail in the Panama City section (spoiler, I survived ... or did I? Naaaa I did).
If you want to know more about Panama as a country then make sure to check out the podcast where you can understand the history of Panama in just 30 minutes perfect for an evening run!
Panama is renowned for its iconic canal, lush rainforests, vibrant cities, and beautiful beaches. As a major hub for tourism in Central America, Panama attracts visitors from around the world. While the country is generally safe, there are areas that require additional caution. So lets get into this and start with the obvious ya'll.
Panama City: The Bustling Capital
Safety Overview for Panama City
Panama City, the thriving urban centre with modern skyscrapers, rich history, and a dynamic nightlife. This city is generally safe for tourists, particularly in well-known neighbourhoods. Uber is available here which always makes a city seem safer for some reason perhaps because its allows you to get from A to B with minimal effort or exposure to the city! I actually had a really good experience with an Uber driver here, we got talking and realised we had architecture as a common interest and the guy turned into a university profession/ tour guide explaining why the city has developed the way it has, he even started pointing out examples as we headed from my hostel (Blu Hostel ((Not the best place to stay but insanely cheap)) to Casco Viejo the picturesque historic district, this guy got 5 stars and a big tip from me ✅.
Like any major city, Panama City has its risks, and certain areas should be approached with caution, but from Blu hostel I walked around fairly extensively, particularly to the main street of Av. Central España which is in the Obarrio district (more below) so lets looks at those safer areas.
Safer Areas For Panama City
Safe Area 01 - Casco Viejo
This historic district, known for its colonial architecture, is heavily frequented by tourists and well-patrolled by police. It’s generally safe during the day and early evening, though tourists should stay alert for pickpockets. If you are looking for safe and welcoming hosteling in Casco Viejo (and this really is a fantastic area to stay in Panama City) then two of the best are.
Magnolia Inn - A beautiful hostel with Boutique Vibes
Private Room: Around $65 USD per night
Dorm Bed: Around $18 USD per night
Magnolia is a restored French colonial mansion, its a beautiful hostel with boutique hotel charm. Located in Casco Viejo, it offers elegant private rooms and comfortable dorms, making it perfect for travellers who enjoy a bit of luxury on a budget. It has a fully equipped kitchen, cozy common areas, and fast Wi-Fi, it stands out for its elegant decor and tranquil atmosphere.
Selina - The digital nomads choice
Private Room: Around $75 USD per night
Dorm Bed: Around $20 USD per night
Selina offers a blend of colonial charm and modern amenities with the crown jewel being a rooftop bar with stunning city views, yoga classes, live music events, and a variety of room options however it can be hit and miss on the atmosphere!
One way to help increase your own safety and security when in a new city (you will hear this on every blog I write because I believe it so deeply) is ... Take a free walking tour of the area. No matter what city I hit, once I have got to where ever I am staying I first ask the reception team about the safety of the city/ area and the second thing I do is book onto a free walking tour. Mention it too a couple of hostel/ hotel people and they will likely come with you so you can make some friends immediately as well. Literally at the breakfast table in the morning "hey guys I am doing the walking tour today, has anyone done it if not then does anyone else fancy coming?"
Then head to the start site and let a local guide talk to you about the history of the area. The guide will happily answer questions about the safety of the area, places you should avoid and even great places to eat or local bars to check out. I have done walking tours now in places like Mexico City, Nicaragua, Lisbon, London, Medellin, Lima. They are not technically free (you pay what you feel it was worth) but if you get a good guide you will get a good insight and learn about the place you are in in the safest possible way, in a group and with experienced guide. The back stories of some countries are really remarkable. I tend to use guru tours for this and they do have one for Casco Viejo so please consider booking on.
Safe Area 02 - Punta Pacifica and Obarrio:
These upscale neighbourhoods, popular for their shopping centres and hotels, are safe and regularly patrolled. They cater to both business traveler and tourists, with a lower incidence of crime compared to other parts of the city. Obarrio particularly is where you will find a lot of the more recognisable bank architecture that are now iconic to the City. The area feels very metropolitan with a Starbucks on many-a-corner, people milling about in suits, you get the picture! The best choice for a safe stay in the area is located in Punta Pacifica, Hostal Casa Areka.
Hostal Casa Areka - Best Hostel pool area in Panama City
Private Room: Around $50 USD per night
Dorm Bed: Around $14 USD per night
Casa Areka is a laid-back hostel with a fantastic outdoor pool area. It’s the ideal spot for sunbathing, relaxing, and cooling off after a day of exploring the city.
The hostel has a pool with lounge chairs, free breakfast, barbecue area, and free shuttle service to the beach. Casa Areka is great for those who enjoy a chill, beachy vibe within the city.
Safe Area 03 - El Cangrejo
Blu Hostel (where I was staying) was located here, I felt pretty darn safe in this area. The reason I stayed at Blu was two fold No.1 is was super cheap for a small apartment style room with a kitchen and No.2 the price was unbeatable. Hitting Panama city I was ready to have some introvert time and it was perfect for this, I would walk to the local shop down the road in the evening, pick up something to cook and head back to tuck myself away and have a good nights sleep!
Caution Areas
Ok so thats the good lets do the bad/ places you should be a bit more wary of!
Caution Area 01 - El Chorrillo
Despite being close to Casco Viejo, El Chorrillo is a neighbourhood with a higher crime rate. Tourists are advised to avoid this area, especially at night. In the dark the area feels slightly more predatory, the streets can be quite I walked through this area one evening to get to the Selina which has a rooftop that you should really watch a sunset. On my own one evening I became vary aware I was one of the only people navigating my way through the tight streets.
Caution Area 02 - Calidonia
Though not particularly unsafe during the day, Calidonia is best avoided after dark, as it’s known for increased petty crime and occasional violence.
Key Data (2024)
In 2024, Panama City saw a 3% reduction in violent crime in central tourist districts like Casco Viejo, thanks to increased police presence . However, incidents of petty theft in crowded areas remain a concern.
Now I mentioned my own experience at the start of the blog post and I am going to divulge it now. On a journey one evening, heading to the Selina to take in the view from the rooftop bar, the streets became quite. The Uber driver had turned down a road that should have been avoided as riots had begun. The students were protesting about the cost of living and future prospects.
The police were armed with tear gas and bean bag guns and were firing at will, the taxi driver apologies asked me to keep my head down and reversed out of the situation. It all happened very quickly but was a classic one wrong turn moment.
Why am I telling you this, not to scare you but to show that there are issues that you do need to just check when in the city. However I would say this about any city anyway and frankly the police presence what that large, at no time did I as a tourist in this country feel unsafe! Moral of the story, check the news for any civil unrest before hitting the big cities. I would say this more so in Nicragaua, Hondorus and El Salvador than Panama. One other thing the taxi driver mentioned to me, which makes perfect sense is
The Americans would never let the city of Panama fall into mass civil unrest due to the amount of product that is shipped through the Canal!
It makes a lot of sense when you think about it! Generally for city travel I tend to recommend locks and anti theft bags, especially if you are an anxious traveller, a small investment in these can give you piece of mind. Check them out below on Amazon.
Ooooookkkkkkayyyy onto our next location
Bocas del Toro: The Caribbean Archipelago
Bocas Del Toro - Safety Overview
Bocas del Toro is a laid-back destination famous for its beaches, water activities, and vibrant nightlife. While the islands are generally safe, visitors should still exercise caution, particularly after dark. By night Bocas Town turns into a bit of a party hub where is seems there is a a different event for each night! You can find some of these on the travel guide page 👇 In fact most of the areas in this blog are in the travel guide below where you can find recommendations on everything from where to eat, where to stay and what to do.
Bocas Del Toro - Safer Areas
Safe Area 01 - Isla Colón (Bocas Town)
This is the main island where most tourists stay. Isla Colón is relatively safe, with minor incidents of petty theft. Stick to well-lit areas at night, especially around bars and restaurants and make sure you walk home as a group. Generally the backpackers and tourists are grouped to the waterfront to the north east side of Bocas Town and here you will be absolutely fine, just keep you valuables locked up and keep and eye on how many shots you have had. I really enjoyed my stay in Bambuda Bocas Town (there are two Bambudas I will touch on the second one ((which you really should stay in, in a moment)). Bambuda was a very comfortable had lockers to keep your items safe and was just far away enough from the parties to get a good night sleep.
Bambuda Bocas Town (Isla Colón) - A great nights sleep
Private Room: Around $65 USD per night
Dorm Bed: Around $18 USD per night
Bambuda has an outside deck on the waterfront with ocean swings, free Wi-Fi, communal kitchen, most backpackers flock to the Selina in Bocas, which granted does have a nice kitchen, but for me, it was not as comfortable as some others which I go into detail in on on my blog post dorms under £20 in Bocas Del Toro.
Safe Area 02 - Bastimentos (Red Frog Beach)
Known for its beautiful beaches and eco-resorts, Bastimentos is safe during the day and is pretty safe at night due to its isolation however its always recommended to avoid wandering alone in isolated areas at night, more incase you get lost! Although there are worse places to get lost ... and the island is pretty small so if you shout loud enough someone will probably here you! I spend a week here, yes a week! Why, because I had backpacked through Costa Rica in less than 2 weeks then had gone from David (in Panama) to Bocas in the space of another days. Check out the border forum where you can see the result of this fast travel because ... I got sick 🤒.
The vibe here is, well frankly, its paradise, it feels so secluded and like you are have been deserted in paradise with a group of people. I think it would be hard to find anyone here with overly bad intentions but, you never know.
As backpackers, there are two main places to stay, Selina Red Frog and Palmers Beach Resort, the two places are reasonably close together with Palmers being on the beach and Selina sunk into the jungle in the centre of the island.
Safe Area 03 - Isla Solarte
This little island is located next to Bastimentos, but you will need a seperate boat from Bocas mainland. Here is tip of the day for a wonderful place to visit and it comes back to Bastimentos 02 check the heck out of this.
Bambuda Lodge - Great Pool view and dorm beds
Private Room: Around $75 USD per night
Dorm Bed: Around $22 USD per night
You do not get much though just ......... Infinity pool, jungle hiking trails, on-site restaurant, and nightly family-style dinners probably friends for life, sunsets to die for. Go! Go now ... book the plane ticket!
Bocas Del Toro - Caution Areas
Isolated Beaches and Late-Night Bars
Looook the truth is here the crime levels are low BUT petty crime can occur on secluded beaches or when leaving bars late at night. It’s best to avoid walking home on your own late at night.
Bocas Del Toro - Key Data (2024)
Reports from 2024 indicate that petty theft incidents in Bocas Town have remained stable, though a slight increase in late-night bar-related thefts has been observed during peak tourist seasons, but some of this will be off the back of people travelling more from 2022 onwards.
Boquete: The Highland Haven
Boquete - Safety Overview
Boquete, known for its cool climate, coffee plantations, and adventure tourism, is one of the safest areas in Panama and its extremely small so this wont take long! The small town is popular with retirees and tourists seeking outdoor activities like hiking and bird-watching.
Boquete - Safer Areas
Downtown Boquete
The main town centre is safe and welcoming, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. You can feel comfortable walking around, even at night! If you want a good spot to relax then the Selina here (I feel like I have mentioned Selina a lot this blog! I don't have a sponsorship they just seem to be fairly on point in Panama!) Anyway you can stay in a cosy private room thats more or less a barrel! Check it out below.
Selina - A unique offering
Private Room: Around $70 USD per night
Dorm Bed: Around $20 USD per night
Like other Selina properties, this one offers a dedicated coworking area, making it a great choice for digital nomads who want to balance work and adventure although it may be hard to pick the laptop up with these hikes on your barrel door step!
Boquete - Caution Areas
Remote Hiking Trails
Ok so this is not so much about an area simply a word of caution for hikes, solo hiking is not recommended, as terrain-related injuries are more common than crime, if you are going to do this, let someone know be it your hotel, a hostel, friends or family on social media and make a re connection date (I will be back on Monday by 8pm) do it, be safe ya'll, do not be the person who ends up stuck on a trail with no one knowing you are there and no phone signal! If you are a keen solo hiker, then to stop the above scenario consider purchasing a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) - especially if you are solo. These are not cheap at least $300 and even then you will need a satellite subscription as well, however, they are a life saver!. If you are a serious hiker/ ultra runner/ mountaineer, then you need one in the bag don't risk it spend the money and ironically hope that you never have to use it!
Some are small enough to slip straight into your bag like the Garmin in Reach Mini 2 and with the app you can a whole host of features that can help you use this thing not just to keep you safe but to help you navigate too.
Boquete - Key Data (2024):
Boquete remains one of the safest tourist areas in Panama, with no significant increase in crime rates reported in 2024 . However, there has been a minor uptick in injuries due to hiking incidents, underscoring the need for proper preparation, but we have already mentioned this.
El Valle de Antón
This picturesque valley area like Boquete is also safe, with little to no crime reported in 2024, however as always you can never say never.
San Blas Islands: The Indigenous Paradise
San Blas Islands - Safety Overview
The San Blas Islands are managed by the indigenous Guna people, making this a unique and controlled environment for tourists. Crime is virtually non-existent on the islands, and the main concerns relate to natural conditions and logistical challenges.
San Blas Islands - Safer Areas
Areas 01 Popular Islands (e.g., Isla Perro, Isla Aguja)
These islands are well-visited and safe, with few, if any, reported incidents. Local guides ensure everyone has a great time and sticks to safety protocols, especially concerning water activities, but the islands are incredibly small and filled with people looking to escape the city or have a few days away, there just in not really crime here.
Areas 02 San Blas to Colombia
Ok I want to address this now because if you are backpacking and heading south there are two ways to get to Colombia, No.1 by Plane and No.2 by boat, there are two further options on which boat you can take, which I have outlines in the following blog post. Generally however both boating options are a fantastic and safe way to explore the San Blas Islands, meet the indigenous communities such as the Kuna Yala and have one heck of a good time. More on that below
San Blas Islands - Caution Areas
Simply Remote or Uninhabited Islands: While there’s little risk of crime, the remoteness of certain islands poses challenges, especially if medical services are required. It’s crucial to travel with experienced operators.
San Blas Islands - Key Data (2024)
In 2024, no significant crime incidents were reported on the main tourist islands, though tourists are advised to be mindful of water-related safety precautions, as accidents have occurred due to strong currents and lack of immediate medical assistance.
Is Panama Safe for Tourists? Conclusion
So is Panama safe for tourists and has it been safe for tourists here in 2024! Yes, Panama, in 2024, remains a pretty safe destination for tourists, especially in its main attraction areas like Panama City, Bocas del Toro, Boquete, and the San Blas Islands. While there are areas where extra caution is advised, most tourist zones are secure with a visible police presence and community support. It is a country that I found surprisingly beautiful surpassing expectations in every way. Would I go back to Panama? Absolutely yes I would, in a heart beat.
I hope this allows you to get excited for your time in Panama, you are going to love this long slender country.
Finally, if you have found this useful please let me know or if you have advice to fellow backpackers then please drop any information you would like to share in the comments 👇. Also if you did look at the border forum above please feel free to comment there also, we would like to build a place where backpackers can easily go to find out how smooth border crossings have been and what documents were required.
Finally finally, given this Christmas season is upon us, if you know someone who is heading out on an adventure then check out my top picks to add to their bag to up there enjoyment and safety whilst travelling the world.
Much love till the next one ya'll.
Jack.
For the curious explorer
Loved the post overall. Just a heads up, though, that El Valle de Anton is a bit west of Panama City, over 5 hours away from Boquete by car, so not really an area within Boquete at all.
When I last visited several years ago, though, it was very safe, with beautiful, lush surroundings and the entrance to a national park with hiking trails, so worth a shout out.
Hello explorers, I have had an interesting question pop up regarding the animal life in Panama and if it is something that backpackers/ tourists need to be mindful of.
Personally during my time, I did not have an encounters with snakes or spiders, however I was warned that the red frogs (on red frog island) are poisonous and whilst I spotted a few, they simply stayed off the paths doing their own thing. If anyone has any input they would like to add to this I would love you to comment. Doing some quick research I have found the following resources which could be useful for those seeking more information on the wild life of Panama.
World Population Review:
https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/snake-bite-deaths-by-country
I have been to and returned to Panama twice. I was on Isla Colon when the pandemic hit and remained on the island for almost two years. I NEVER felt for my safety, not once.
I also have traveled to other parts of the country and have always felt safe.
If going on to Colombia, check out the company that does sailboats that take a week to get to Cartagena for about $500 bucks.
Muy interesante tu viaje .Veo q conociste y todo el Pais. Fuiste a la republica completa del Norte a Sur. Suerte y conocer el mundo es interesante. Cultural paisajes ect.
You should have given some recommendation about how to get the first driver. By the looks of it he is great drive.