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Panama
- Panama is a generally safe environment; the main risks to travelers in Panama stem from petty criminality.
- Gang activity exists in pockets of Panama City and is a considerable issue in Colon; however, associated violence is predominantly inter-gang related.
- Protests can be well-attended and have the potential to disrupt local transportation and services. Most protests are peaceful.
- Express kidnappings have been reported in several locations across Panama.
Risk Factors
- Opportunistic crime (e.g., pickpocketing, purse snatching, etc.) poses the primary risk for individuals visiting Panama City and other urban regions. However, it is worth noting that gang activity is present in pockets of the capital and is a significant concern in the city of Colon. It is advisable to visit Colon during daylight hours only.
- Violent crime seldom targets foreign nationals; rather, it predominantly stems from conflicts between gangs.
- The areas of Calidonia, El Chorillo and San Miguelito in Panama City witness higher levels of violent crime and should be avoided, particularly at night. The El Cangrejo, Obarrio, and San Francisco areas in Panama City are prone to robberies, particularly in close proximity to restaurants. Visible items such as smartphones, jewelry, or luxury goods increase the chance of being targeted.
- The Darien region and Mosquito Coast, pose significant risks of criminality due to the presence of drug traffickers and other criminal groups.
- Foreign nationals have been victims of express kidnappings, where victims are briefly abducted and forced to withdraw money from ATMs. Principle locations include Panama City, Colòn, David and La Chorrer.
- To reduce risk, use official taxis which are painted yellow or arrange through a reputable hotel.
- Road conditions in Panama can be poor, especially in rural areas, and local driving habits pose additional risks. Self-driving at night is discouraged due to inadequate lighting and signage.
- Public transport systems, particularly in urban areas, are often overcrowded and not always reliable.
- Use taxis arranged through a hotel or taxi rank for safer travel in urban areas; ensure the taxi is registered, has a visible taxi sign, and the driver’s identification displayed. Ride-sharing services (e.g., Uber) are available in major cities and are safe and efficient.
- Large demonstrations are known to occur frequently in Panama, generally driven by socio-economic grievances. Previous protests have resulted in widespread disruption, including blockades on key routes such as the Pan-American highway.
- Protest flashpoints include public squares, university quarter, the National Assembly, and Via Espana and government buildings in Panama City as well as the port city of Colon.
- Violence during protests is rare, though the security forces have previously used tear gas and other forceful measures to disperse protests. Bypass large gatherings to mitigate incidental risk to bystanders.
- The rainy season is between April and December and can cause occasional floods and landslides in rural areas. October and November typically record the most rainfall.
- Panama is situated near a seismic zone, though most earthquakes are of relatively low intensity.