Complete Panama Guide

Everything you need to know about Panama - from geography and culture to practical living information for expats considering this beautiful Central American nation as their new home.

Panama at a Glance

Essential facts and figures about the Republic of Panama

Capital

Panama City

Population

4.3 million

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Language

Spanish (English widely spoken)

Time Zone

EST (UTC-5)

Government

Democratic Republic

Area

75,417 km² (29,120 sq mi)

Climate

Tropical

Comprehensive Panama Information

Explore detailed information about Panama's geography, culture, economy, and practical living aspects

Geographic Overview

Panama is a narrow isthmus connecting North and South America, bordered by Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east. The country features both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, with the famous Panama Canal connecting the two oceans.

Key Geographic Features:

  • • Panama Canal - Engineering marvel connecting oceans
  • • Cordillera Central - Mountain range with peaks over 3,000m
  • • Azuero Peninsula - Cultural heartland and beaches
  • • San Blas Islands - Caribbean archipelago
  • • Darien Province - Pristine rainforest and biodiversity

Climate Zones:

  • • Tropical lowlands - Hot and humid year-round
  • • Mountain regions - Cool, spring-like temperatures
  • • Caribbean coast - Higher rainfall, lush vegetation
  • • Pacific coast - Distinct dry season (Dec-April)
  • • Cloud forests - Cool, misty mountain environments

Provinces and Regions

Panama Province
Capital: Panama City | Population: 1.9 million
Capital cityFinancial centerPanama CanalModern infrastructure
Chiriquí
Capital: David | Population: 462,000
Boquete mountain townCoffee regionCool climateExpat favorite
Los Santos
Capital: Las Tablas | Population: 95,000
Pedasi fishing villageAzuero PeninsulaTraditional cultureBeautiful beaches
Bocas del Toro
Capital: Bocas del Toro | Population: 159,000
Caribbean islandsSurfing destinationBiodiversityIsland lifestyle
Coclé
Capital: Penonomé | Population: 278,000
El Valle volcanic craterHot springsMountain livingCentral location

Ready to Make Panama Your Home?

Now that you know more about Panama, let Giovanna Avendaño help you navigate the immigration process and make your Panama dream a reality.