Climate
Temperatures are tropical throughout the year, ranging from 25-30oC and vary only with altitude. In the temperate Chiriqui highlands the weather is spring-like and temperatures reach only 19oC. There are two rainfall seasons - the dry season is from December to April but this only applies to the Pacific side of the central mountain range given that it rains throughout the year on the Caribbean side. Precipitation falls mostly in the form of short, sharp showers and the sun is never far away.
Below are two graphs showing average 24-hour temperature and rainfall for Panama City, Bocas del Toro, Santiago and London for comparison.
Average 24-hour Temperature (in oC)
Average Rainfall (in mm)
Festivals & Holidays
Carnival in February or March is celebrated with much gusto in Panama City, costumed revellry, music and dancing culminate in a big Shrove Tuesday parade. Holy Week is characterised by religious processions. The Spanish heritage of the Peninsula de Azuero is reflected in a number of energetic religious fiestas while the Kuna Indians and descendants of West Indians all have their own distinctive celebrations throughout the year.
Currency
Technically the official currency is the Balboa, however, in 1941 Panama stopped printing the Balboa in favor of using the American dollar. Current exchange rates are available via Google currency conversion or the OANDA currency converter. It's not advisable to try to acquire Latin American currency before travelling, if a currency is available in high street banks or exchange outlets the exchange rate is usually very poor. You can change US dollar cash or travellers checks locally and obtain cash advances via ATMs in most towns and cities. We'd advise that you tell your bank you intend to use your card abroad before you set off.
Visas
British citizens can find up-to-date information on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website. Citizens of other countries should consult their embassy before travel.
Vaccinations
We recommend that you always check with your own travel clinic or health professional before you travel, for advice specific to your requirements. The NHS Fit For Travel website contains for up-to-date health advice and lists the common vaccinations for travellers to Panama.