Areas to Avoid in Panamá
Panama
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Panamá. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Panamá is generally Use Caution
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Casco Viejo, Obarrio, Bella Vista
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Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Panamá are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Certain areas of San Miguelito
This is a large district with significant poverty and higher crime rates. While not all areas are dangerous, it's generally advised for tourists to avoid it unless with a local guide.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Casco Viejo
Historic colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration.
Remote, unlit streets in any neighborhood after dark
Even in generally safe areas, poorly lit or deserted streets can attract petty crime. Always opt for well-trafficked and illuminated routes, or take a taxi/rideshare at night.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Obarrio
Modern, upscale financial district with chic hotels, shopping, and dining.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Panamá
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Panamá Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Panamá on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Panamá Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Panamá with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Panamá: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Panamá's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Panamá: Scenic Excursion
Escape Panamá for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Panamá Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Panamá's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Panamá
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Panamá on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Panamá safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Casco Viejo
Historic colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration.
Generally safe during the day with tourist police presence, but be aware of pickpockets. At night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid dimly lit alleys.
Obarrio
Modern, upscale financial district with chic hotels, shopping, and dining.
Generally very safe due to its commercial nature and higher police presence. Standard precautions against petty theft apply.
General Safety Tips for Panamá
At Night
Stick to main streets in popular areas like Casco Viejo and Obarrio. Taxis or rideshares are recommended for getting around between neighborhoods or to/from accommodations after dark.
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist areas like Casco Viejo and Obarrio during the day. Exercise heightened awareness at night and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in quiet streets after dark.
Emergency Number
911
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Panamá
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis
- 2Distraction theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas
- 3Fake police officers requesting money
Travel Insurance for Panamá
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Casco Viejo
Historic colonial charm meets buzzing nightlife and culinary exploration.
Generally safe during the day with tourist police presence, but be aware of pickpockets. At night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid dimly lit alleys.
Obarrio
Modern, upscale financial district with chic hotels, shopping, and dining.
Generally very safe due to its commercial nature and higher police presence. Standard precautions against petty theft apply.
Bella Vista
A mix of residential high-rises, local eateries, and a lively waterfront promenade.
Generally safe during the day, especially along Balboa Avenue. Be cautious in quieter side streets at night; it's better to take a taxi.
Punta Pacifica
Exclusive, modern residential area with luxury shopping and dining.
Extremely safe due to its exclusivity and private security. Primarily residential, so tourist-specific safety concerns are minimal.
Safety in Panamá
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist areas like Casco Viejo and Obarrio during the day. Exercise heightened awareness at night and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in quiet streets after dark.
At Night
Stick to main streets in popular areas like Casco Viejo and Obarrio. Taxis or rideshares are recommended for getting around between neighborhoods or to/from accommodations after dark.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis
- 2Distraction theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas
- 3Fake police officers requesting money
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