Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(Costa Rica) and Panama City, departing from the Albrook Bus Terminal. Both recom-
mend that you make reservations a few days in advance.
Car & Motorcycle
Driving from the USA or Canada takes about a week or considerably more in order to visit
some of the fantastic sights en route. Driving at night is not recommended. Central Amer-
ican roads are narrow, rarely painted with a center stripe, often potholed and subject to
hazards such as cattle and pedestrians in rural areas.
If you decide to drive to Panama get insurance in advance, have your papers in order
(including a
permiso de salida
- exit permit - from the country of the car's origin) and nev-
er leave your car unattended (fortunately, guarded lots are common in Latin America). US
license plates are attractive as souvenirs, so you should display these from inside the car.
If you are bringing a car into Panama, you must pay US$5 for a
tarjeta de circulación
(vehicle control certificate) and another US$1 to have the car fumigated. You will also
need to show a driver's license, proof of ownership and Panamanian insurance papers,
which is best bought upon entering the country at an insurance dealer near
aduana
(cus-
toms). Copy the insurance policy and have it officially stamped.
Your passport will be stamped to show that you have paid and followed procedures
when you brought the vehicle into the country. A car visa is only valid for one month and
can be renewed for up to three months. Overstaying will cost you another US$300 to
$500, payable only before expiration.
Sea
It's possible to cross to Colombia by sea, though it can be a rough crossing. Multiday mo-
torboat and sailboat trips depart from Colón Province or the Comarca de Kuna Yala.
DRIVING TO PANAMA FROM NORTH AMERICA
Every year readers tell us about their long-haul road trip across the continent. If
you think you're game for a little overland adventure, here is a selection of reader-
tested tips for making the most of the big drive:
TThink it th
ughDriving yourself through Central America isnota cheap option.
Advantages include greater comfort and flexibility, but youwillspend more than
you expect on gas, insurance and fees.
Drriive de
ink it thrrough
elyFew cars use turn signals, pedestrians cross highways - things
are different here. It is not for the faint of heart - be smart, be safe and arrive alive.
e deffensiively
