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Getting around Panama City

Public transport: 

Panama City has an extensive network of public buses, but travelling by public bus can be highly confusing. However, the locals will help you if you ask, so if you feel like braving the buses, destinations and prices are posted on the front windshield. There are few stops: look for where the locals queue.

There are no passes, but the buses are extremely cheap. It’s best to avoid taking them at night.

Taxis: 

Taxis can be hailed on the street, though drivers are surprisingly reluctant to pick up passengers and may even protest if your destination won't result in a high fare. Drivers will almost always leave the meter off in an attempt to charge you more, though fares are never more than a few dollars.

Driving: 

Parking is widely available throughout the city centre, though it is recommended that you only use guarded lots as car theft and vandalism is a major problem.

Car hire: 

You must be at least 23 years old to hire a car. Recommended car hire companies in Panama City include Avis (tel: (507) 238 4056; www.avis.com); Hertz (www.rentacarpanama.com); Thrifty (tel: (507) 238 4955; www.thrifty.com) and National (tel: (507) 238 4144; www.nationalpanama.com).

Bicycle hire: 

The city itself is neither easy nor pleasant to cycle, being entirely too hilly and congested. However, there are several bike hire places along the scenic 6km (4 miles) long Amador Causeway. Try Bikes and More, just past the Figali Convention Centre (tel: (507) 314 0103).

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