Panama at a glance
Whether you’re planning a trip or a move, here are the essentials about Panama in one place.
The basics
- Capital: Panama City.
- Currency: the US dollar (locally also called the balboa), so no exchange headaches for many visitors.
- Language: Spanish is official; English is widely spoken in business and tourism.
- Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST), with no daylight saving — a handy overlap with much of the Americas.
- Location: the isthmus linking Central and South America, between the Caribbean and Pacific.
Good to know
- Home of the Panama Canal, one of the world’s great engineering feats.
- Two seasons — dry (mid-Dec–Apr) and green/rainy (May–mid-Dec).
- Plug type and voltage match the US (Type A/B, 110V).
Dig deeper
Explore our full library of guides on geography, economy, culture and travel to get to know the country.
Start exploring in the Panama Digital Directory — trusted local businesses, guides and events across Panama.
