Panama travel advice

Most visits to Panama are trouble-free. There is a low threat from terrorism but travellers should be vigilant and are advised to avoid all demonstrations and construction sites and monitor local media for up to date information.

There have been reports of an increase in incidences of Dengue Fever in Panama City. Visitors should take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The most affected areas include: San Miguelito, Chilibre, Las Cumbres, 24 de diciembre, Mañanitas, Tocumen, Pueblo Nuevo, Curundú, Bethania, Juan Diaz, Parque Lefevre, Rio Abajo, San Francisco, Bella Vista and Calidonia.

If travelling to the Darien province, this should only be undertaken with an organised group, and to tourist destinations recognised and protected by the Panamanian police.

There is a possibility of earthquakes in Panama. The most recent one on 23 January 2010, struck in the west of the country, reaching a magnitude of 5.5. The last major one struck the north of Panama on 4 July 2009, measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale. There was no major damage caused on either occasion.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel