Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Workers' Day
May 1
Founding of Old Panama
(Panama City only) August 15
Hispanic Day
October 12
National Anthem Day
November 1
All Souls' Day
November 2
Independence Day
November 3
First Call for Independence
November 10
Independence from Spain
November 28
Mothers' Day
December 8
Christmas Day
December 25
Safe Travel
Crime is a problem in certain parts of Panama City. The city's better districts are safer
than in many other capitals: witness the all-night restaurants and activity on the streets at
night. On the other hand, it is not safe to walk around at night on the outskirts of Casco
Viejo - be careful in the side streets of this district even in the daytime. In general, stay
where it's well lit and there are plenty of people around.
Colón has some upscale residential areas, but the city is widely known for street crime.
Consult the staff at your hotel on areas to avoid.
Certain areas in the Darién Province bordering Colombia are extremely dangerous.
Few travelers have reason to be in these areas. In the past, it has been used as a staging
ground by criminals, human traffickers, the Colombian paramilitary and guerrillas. The
area that is particularly treacherous goes beyond Boca de Cupe to Colombia, the tradi-
tional path through the Darién Gap.
Numerous Colombian boats travel the Caribbean through the Archipiélago de San Blás
between the Zona Libre in Colón and Cartagena, Colombia. There have been cases of
boats trafficking drugs on northbound voyages. Take this possibility into account if you
plan on taking one of these slow cargo boats. On the Pacific there have been incidents as
well.
Hiking Safety
Though it's tropical, Panama runs the gamut from hot to cold and hiking is not easy here.
You should go adequately prepared. Always ask about the conditions of the trail before
heading out - either with local outfitters or rangers. Carry plenty of water, even on short
journeys, and always bring food, matches and adequate clothing - jungles
do
get quite a
bit colder at night, particularly at higher elevations.
