26 Jan Is Panama Safe?
By Natalie Warner
We get a lot of questions about Panama. One of the most frequent questions is regarding safety. Is Panama safe in general? Is Panama safe for single women? Is Panama safe for families?
The government of Canada states that overall, travelers should “take normal security precaution… exercise a high degree of caution in Colón and some areas of Panama City…” The government also advises against travel beyond Yaviza in Darién Province. The US Department of State Travel rates Panama at a level 1 for safety, meaning one should exercise normal precautions.
The United States Department of Bureau of Diplomatic Security’s (OSAC) statistics indicate that crime including homicide, robberies, and petty theft rose from 2016 to 2017. Although these crimes increased these years, the overall trend in indicates a decrease. According to Public Security Minister Alexis Bethancourt, these crimes decreased between 2017 to 2018
An Expat’s Take
Facebook expat groups can provide an overall sense of what is going on as well. Questions are frequently asked (and answered) regarding the safety of certain areas around the country. The general consensus tends to be yes, Panama is safe, as long as you are aware of your surroundings and avoid certain areas, especially at night. Colón is infamous for its high crime rates, as are neighborhoods in Panama City, including El Chorillo and San Miguelito.
The reality is that crime is everywhere, in every corner of the globe. Common sense goes a long way. Is Panama safe? Is it safe for single women? Is Panama safe for families? Yes, yes, and yes. There are many single people (men and women) and families who live comfortably and without incident in the Playa Coronado area. Some of these people live in condos buildings, others live in areas with 24 hour security. Others live in a house with a gate.
It is not to say that crime doesn’t happen. Petty theft is not unheard of around here. Break ins and violent crimes have happened, too. Again, it is just an ugly reality of the world in which we live. Overall though, the community is safe.
A Few Safety Tips
Avoid showcasing anything of value
This applies to many things including jewelry, electronics, and documents. Avoid leaving these items in cars or near windows as they are a prime target for thieves.
Avoid remote areas which you are unfamiliar
OSAC states that areas including the Darién and Mosquito Coast are a particularly high risk for travelers due to high crime rates and their remoteness. Probably best to avoid going off these beaten paths unless you are with a trusted guide who knows these areas well.
Be sure to tell a trusted person or two about your itinerary in case an emergency arises.
Planning a trip? Don’t make your absence obvious.
Criminals are likely to target places they know are not occupied. It is less risk of getting caught. Keep the people who are aware of your trip on a short list. Consider purchasing a timer which can create the appearance of somebody being home. These can be found at Novey or Do It Centers.
Make sure your vehicle is in working order with a full gas tank
This is particularly true for when you are venturing out into areas in which you are unfamiliar. Waze is a great GPS app (Google is also another popular GPS app). That does not guarantee you will not get lost, especially with streets that have no names or ones that are not clearly marked. Having a properly working vehicle means you do not have to stop and ask for directions if you find yourself in a shady part of Panama.
Know your numbers!
We have a wealth of information on our website regarding things you need to know. This includes emergency numbers, area information, and more!
When in doubt, contact us
We can help you with your next adventure. Need transportation to a tour location you are unsure about? We can help! Looking for transportation to a group tour? Check out our events calendar. Unsure of what there is to do but have a general idea? We are happy to provide ideas.
Panama is a very special country to many people, especially to those who live here. It is a fun and unique vacation destination enjoyed by millions every year. The country is generally safe as long as you practice a few safety precautions, as you would just about anywhere else.