Is Panama Safe for Tourists? A Breakdown of Key Areas for 2025

PANAMA CITY

PANAMA SAFETY QUICK FIRE ROUND

Before we get into our regions there are some generals you need to know so lets start with a quick fire round for Panama:

Smoking and Vapes bans

It’s illegal to smoke & Vape in public places. $25 to 100 can be issued if you are caught smoking in prohibited places.

Illegal drugs

You can get a prison sentence for possessing even a small quantity of drugs do not take the risk.

Night assaults

Stick to well lit and populated areas at night, Uber home where possible.

ATM

Be mindful of your surroundings and when & where you withdraw money from, post withdrawal attacks can occur.

Weather

The nature of Panama means extreme weather evens can occur, ensure you check the latest weather news before you travel.

Panama City Safety Overview

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.

Quick City Safety Tip

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 walking tour of the area. No matter what city I hit, once I have got to wherever I am staying, I ask the reception team about the safety of the city/ area then I book onto a walking tour, my recommendation for panama is the Legend of Casco Viejo  Tour  Panama City has a blend of deep history and some stunning architecture so make sure to book into a Casco Viejo walking tour.

The guide will happily answer questions about the safety of the area, places you should avoid as well as 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. If you get a good guide you will end up with a great insight to the area in the safest possible way.

✅ Safer Areas in Panama City to Explore

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 below

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 has become iconic to Panama Cities skyline. 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 for backpackers is located in Punta Pacifica, Hostal Casa Areka. For you holiday makers check out the JW marriot for some unreal views across the ocean and the bay.

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 I needed a bit of quiet time to recharge after being super social for the past 3/4 weeks! 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! Would I recommend it? Not hugely! Only if you are an a shoestring and need a bit of alone time, otherwise I would be hitting the other recommendations above.

🚨 Caution Areas In Panama City

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.

📈 Panama City Key Safety Data 2025

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 were taking place in the area. The students were protesting about the cost of living and future prospects.

The police were armed with tear gas and bean bag guns, these were being used, there was dust in the air and shouting and jeering going on, 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 and frankly, the police presence what that large, at no time did I, as a tourist in Panama, feel unsafe! Moral of the story, check the news for any civil unrest before hitting the big cities. Double down on this advice when visiting other central American countries like Nicragaua, Hondorus and El Salvador. 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 quick wins for city travel are TSA approved locks and anti theft bags, especially if you are an anxious traveller, a small investment in these can give you piece of mind.

Essential Panama City Tours for Cultural & Wildlife Lovers Visiting Panama City

For those looking for a really fantastic cultural experience in a safe environment one of the best options is to take a trip from Panama city to an Embera Village. This is a great way to learn and support the local community as you have to pay an 'indigenous community fee' which is fairly common for this type of tour.

It currently (in 2025) stands at 30 USD per adult and 15 USD per kid, paid in cash. If you are looking to really engage into something more immersive and culturally enriching take this tour on, reserve it now and pay later so you don't miss out.

👉 Embera Village Tour 👈

If you are a wildlife lover and love cute little monkeys then the Panama: Monkey Island and Panama Canal Eco-Tour & Jungle is a great option for those looking to get up close and personal with both the canal and its vast array of wildlife.

👉 Monkey Island & Canal Eco-Tour 👈

Finally if you want to discover the very best places for a safe stay in Panama city then you can find my choices below.

🎒 Panama City Safe Stays for Backpackers

Casco Viejo

Magnolia Inn - A beautiful hostel with Boutique Vibes

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• 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.

Punta Pacifica

Hostal Casa Areka - Best Hostel pool area in Panama City

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• 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.

🏛️ Panama City Safe Stay for Holiday Makers

Casco Viejo

Hotel San Felipe - A beautiful hostel with Boutique Vibes

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• Private Room from $182 USD per night

This 5-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can have a drink at the rooftop bar. The hotel has air-conditioned rooms complete with a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. It is situated in the heart of Casco Viejo in a Spanish style colonial building. A perfect stay for a slice of modern in a historical building.

Punta Pacifica

JW Marriott Panama – Luxury with Architectural Splendor

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• Private Room: Around $280 USD per night

The JW Marriott Panama in Punta Pacifica is a stunning blend of modern luxury and architectural elegance. Towering over the city’s coastline, this 70-story marvel offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with sleek glass facades that reflect the tropical sun. The interiors are equally impressive, blending contemporary design with a nod to Panama’s vibrant culture. It has an Infinity Pool, areas for Fine dining and a spa and fitness centre. Perfect for holidaymakers looking for a luxurious escape.