Whether you are in search of a safe place to live in the nation of Panama or you are looking for an awesome vacation destination, there is no shortage of options to choose from.
However, safety is always going to come first in these instances.
That’s where this helpful guide comes into play.
With a population of 4.5 million, a property crime rate of 2,110 per 100K, and a murder rate of 11.6 per 100K, there is more safety to be found here than most might expect.
Read on to learn more about the safest cities that the nation has to offer!
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10 Safest Cities In Panama
Panama City
Of course, no list would be complete without the nation’s capital.
You can come to check out the early cathedral and take in all of the history that this city has to offer.
Meanwhile, there are also an array of lush beaches to check out and a vibrant local culture to participate in.
Panama City is also considered to be one of the safest cities in the country, with crime levels that are low to moderate.
However, the El Chorrillo and Curundú neighborhoods should be avoided.
If visitors plan on visiting Casco Viejo, they are advised to take a taxi, as opposed to walking, as El Chorrillo surrounds it.
Boquete
Boquete is a quiet mountain town that has been attracting visitors from all over the world for decades now.
There are coffee plantations to visit, all sorts of scenic attractions to enjoy and the annual jazz festival is a must-see.
There is also a large community of ex-pats here who can vouch for the town’s level of safety.
Assault, armed robbery, drug use, and drug dealing are all considered to have low rates, which will put any traveler’s mind at ease.
In fact, violent crime is considered to be a nonfactor in Boquete.
That is one of the many reasons why so many ex-pats retire to this town in particular.
Coronado
This tiny beach town simply does not have the issues that larger cities may have because there are so few residents!
Outside of visitors, there are only 600 full-time residents of this beach town, which is located just outside of Panama City.
It is a popular location for those who seek peaceful summer homes to vacation in.
Thanks to its small population and laid-back residents, Coronado ranks highly among the safest places to live in the country.
There is even a police station conveniently located right at the town’s entrance, which only serves to enhance the feelings of safety that visitors and residents enjoy.
Bocas del Toros
With very low incidences of violent crime, Bocas del Toros is believed to be one of the safest locations in Panama for visitors.
Theft can become an issue but not when travelers take simple precautions to avoid pickpockets and petty criminals.
It is a laid-back tropical enclave that does not offer too much in the way of violent crime either.
The crimes that take place here are known as crimes of opportunity.
In fact, many of the crimes that take place against Americans here are perpetrated by fellow Americans.
You stand very little chance of being victimized as long as you are not giving other travelers the chance to attack.
El Valle de Antón
This location is often chosen by American travelers because of the cooler climate, natural beauty, and close proximity to Panama City.
The Coronado beaches region may be popular as well but El Valle de Anton’s higher elevation (nearly 600 meters) makes it a great spot for those who wish to avoid excessive heat.
Whether you are walking alone in the daylight or during the nighttime, the crime rate at El Valle de Anton is quite low.
Car theft, muggings, and robberies are also considered to be rare here.
Visitors also love having the chance to quickly make their way to the Coronado region and many affluent Panama City residents make their way to second homes in El Valle de Anton on weekends.
Chitre/Las Tablas
This town and city are located in Panama’s Azuero Peninsula region.
Chitre is larger and this is where all of the major chains are located. Los Tablas is a smaller town and serves as the region’s cultural hub.
The yearly Carnival celebrations lure a number of Americans and there are also a sizable number of ex-pats here.
Las Tablas is considered to be one of the safest places on the planet, let alone Panama.
The crime index is very low, while the safety index remains high.
As for Chitre, locals will tell you that this is one of the safest cities in the country.
Visitors and locals alike are able to mingle without any major worries or concerns.
Pedasi
Ex-pats adore this Panama beach town and it is easy to see why.
The cost of living is very low, as is the cost of housing, making this a great vacation destination as well.
The community is close-knit, with no shortage of events and activities for visitors to enjoy.
The population is small and Las Tables is only 45 minutes away.
Within 90 minutes, travelers can make their way to Chitre.
Of course, with a population of only 3,000, the crime rate is rather low.
Petty crime can take place from time to time but is not considered to be the type of problem that you need to plan a vacation around.
There is a Sunday market to visit and restaurants range from casual to upscale.
Crime is not a concern, as many of these incidents are easy to avoid.
Santa Fe
Located just 45 minutes from Santiago, Santa Fe is nestled in a gorgeous rural area.
Ex-pats who would like to spend time in an area that is more true to the actual Panamanian experience often choose Santa Fe.
Santa Fe National Park is a very popular destination for those who spend time in this region.
Santiago is readily accessible but Santa Fe serves as a great location for those looking to stay safe.
The temperate climate is a plus, as is the nonexistent crime rate.
With a population of just 3,000, these are not worries that the average resident has to concern themselves with.
David
Those who are in search of a larger city that can provide the necessary safety are always more than welcome in the city of David.
As the second largest city in the country, it offers up a different vibe than what Panama City visitors might be used to.
It is the hottest city in Central America, though, which is something you will want to bear in mind.
The crime index in David is low but the safety index is high.
It is considered to be a very safe place to walk around, whether it is daytime or nighttime.
The number of muggings, robberies, and car thefts is also quite low.
Attacks and hate crimes are not common, either.
Volcan
This small town is located in Panama’s Chiriqui province.
It is a common choice for many travelers because its higher elevation provides a cooler climate.
Volcan is a smaller town that is not as developed, providing visitors with a chance to get off the beaten path.
It is a slow-paced existence that suits many just fine.
Like many other locations in Panama, Volcan’s crime rate is low as long as the proper precautions are taken.
In other words, if you operate with the same common sense that you would normally, you will not have any issues.
The crime rate is never at zero but it is not something that should concern a visitor who is not taking unnecessary risks.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Panama
Astute readers may have noticed a repeated emphasis on taking the proper precautions when it comes to the safer cities that Panama has to offer.
Now, the time has come for us to take a closer look at the most crucial tips and pointers so that we know what these precautions entail.
Research First!
Do not make the mistake of heading to a neighborhood or region where you have not already done your homework on.
Before booking a trip, a hotel room, or any other form of accommodation, do some research so you can avoid difficulties.
Do Not Use Taxis
Uber is your best bet in these instances, although you can use taxis that are being provided by the hotel where you are staying.
Ride-sharing platforms are much safer than yellow taxis.
Do Not Be Flashy
Flashy jewelry, designer clothing, and other forms of ostentatious dress should be avoided.
Someone who is flashing a great deal of wealth is someone who could be putting themselves at risk.
Your fellow Americans are just as much of a risk to rob you in these scenarios, as they look to fund their trips through the losses of those who are less thoughtful.
Avoid Drugs
Sure, it may seem like a fun idea at the moment but there is no reason to get involved with street dealers.
This is how you end up in neighborhoods that are not as hospitable, as you are advertising that you have the cash to spare.
Steer clear of street hustlers entirely, as they know how to spot the Americans who are out of their element.
Do Not Leave Valuables Unattended
In other words, take the same precautions that you would in your home country.
There is no reason to leave your bags unattended in America, so why would you come to Panama and start throwing all caution to the wind?
Do not leave anything that you would not want to be stolen out where it can be taken.
Panama Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Panama Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Time of Year To Visit?
You can visit Panama during any time of year but the dry season is considered to be a much better choice than the wet season.
Panama’s dry season starts in the middle of December and stretches into the middle of April.
If you are there during the wet season, the downpours tend to be heavy and brief.
If you can handle this aspect of the equation, you will enjoy much smaller crowds.
Will I Need an Electricity Adapter or Converter?
For the most part, Panama uses 110-volt electricity, just like the US.
That does not mean that you should make the mistake of assuming.
There are still unpredictable outlets that may run on 220-volt electricity.
Be sure to ask your hotel before plugging up, just to be on the safe side.
Is Panama Suitable For Children?
Yes, there are plenty of activities in Panama that are suitable for your little ones.
Transportation times tend to be on the shorter side, so there is less chance of being bored.
Whether your kids are interested in rainforest hikes, beach trips, or boat rides on the canal, there is a wide range of outings that can be planned with them in mind.
I have been to Panama. Boquete has an extremely high missing persons rate and is actually pretty dangerous for lone or pare travelers. The Last time I was there I saw at least 5 different missing persons posters….just saying, maybe shouldn’t be #1 on this list.
Also if you are traveling to a city closer to a border, like David, have your passport on you at all times while driving because there are military stops and they will check that you are in the country legally.
Hope this helps!
Were the missing persons reported as abducted?